The 15+ Best Sustainable Sandal Brands for Summer 2023

Using soles made of upcycled tires, Deux Mains sandals are handmade in Haiti and come with a 50,000-mile guarantee, ensuring these shoes are built to last for many summers.

Currently, the brand has transformed more than 15,000 tires into sturdy soles, alleviating the problem of waste and consumption. These shoes are created with traditional craft methods in a solar-powered, woman-owned factory that supports the Haitian community through liveable wages, health insurance, and access to education.

What Makes Sandals Sustainable?

“Sustainable” sandals are constructed with longevity in mind. These are pairs you can wear for several seasons, outliving the ever-changing trends of the fashion industry.

Truly sustainable brands use eco-friendly materials, prioritize ethical manufacturing processes, and limit overproduction by releasing smaller batches.

Quality and Durability

Quality, durability, and materials are paramount when considering sustainable sandals. Footwear demands considerable functionality and resilience, making sustainability a challenge.

Most shoes, for instance, aren’t recyclable. Hence, the importance of durability is elevated. Buying less—by investing in long-lasting goods—significantly contributes to sustainability.

Materials

Navigating the world of sustainable materials can be a challenge, but understanding the properties of each can make your choice easier and more aligned with your values. Here’s a deeper dive into the materials you might find in sustainable sandals:

• Leather — Traditionally, leather isn’t seen as an eco-friendly material due to the environmental impact of its production process. However, leather can be a sustainable choice when sourced responsibly and vegetable-tanned. High-quality leather is durable, long-lasting, and can be repaired, reducing the need for frequent replacements. Be sure to look for Leather Working Group certified tanneries for the most sustainable leather options.
• Plant-Based Vegan Leather — These alternatives, often comprised of various plant-based materials, are growing in popularity due to ethical concerns associated with traditional leather. While they still contain synthetic components, their use reduces the reliance on animal products. However, durability can be a concern, as some vegan leathers are not as long-lasting as their traditional counterparts.
• Upcycled Materials — Upcycling reuses waste materials to create products of higher value than the original. Upcycled materials could include anything from discarded textiles to plastic waste. These materials prevent waste from ending up in landfills and reduce the need for new resources, making them an excellent choice for sustainability.
• Recycled Plastic — Some brands use recycled plastics in their sandals, converting waste into stylish and durable footwear. By repurposing plastic waste, these brands help to reduce pollution and lower the demand for virgin plastic.
• Organic Cotton — Unlike conventional cotton, organic cotton is grown without harmful pesticides and fertilizers, making it a more eco-friendly choice. It’s breathable and comfortable, making it an excellent material for sandal straps.
• Cork — Cork is a sustainable and renewable material harvested from cork oak trees without harming the tree. It’s lightweight, comfortable, and has a unique aesthetic, making it a popular choice for sustainable sandals.
• Jute — This natural fiber is biodegradable and recyclable. It is often used in producing espadrille-style sandals due to its rustic and earthy aesthetic.
• Innovative Materials (Piñatex, Apple Leather, VEGEA) — These innovative materials are derived from byproducts of the food industry and offer a sustainable alternative to traditional leather. Piñatex is made from pineapple leaf fibers, apple leather from apple waste, and VEGEA from grape waste. These materials represent the cutting edge of sustainable footwear and show promise for future developments in the industry.
• Natural Rubber — Used in outsoles, natural rubber is biodegradable and offers excellent durability and comfort. It’s a renewable resource, making it a sustainable choice for footwear.

Understanding these materials can help you make an informed decision aligning with your values and needs. Whether you prioritize durability, comfort, or ethical considerations, there’s a sustainable sandal out there for you.

Ethical Production: People Matter Too

Sustainable sandals should be crafted ethically, providing fair wages, safe working conditions, and benefits to workers. Transparency in manufacturing processes is crucial to verify ethical practices.

Look for brands offering supply chain transparency and exceeding standards to ensure fair production. Not every company does everything perfectly, but honesty about improvements and commitments to enhancing ethical practices are essential steps toward a sustainable fashion future.

How To Extend The Life of Your Sustainable Sandals

Maintaining your sandals correctly extends their life, reducing the frequency of replacement and further benefiting the environment. Here are some tips on how to keep your sustainable sandals in the best shape:

• Cleaning — Regular cleaning is essential to keep your sandals looking their best and to prevent build-up of dirt and grime that could shorten their lifespan. The appropriate cleaning method will depend on the material of your sandals. For leather sandals, a damp cloth should be enough for surface dirt. A mild soap can be used for more stubborn stains. For sandals made from fabric or other materials, check if they are machine washable. If they’re not, hand washing with mild soap and warm water is often a safe bet. Always allow your sandals to air dry naturally, away from direct heat, which could warp or shrink them.
• Weather Protection — Certain materials, like leather, can be sensitive to weather conditions. To protect your sandals, consider using a protective spray that’s appropriate for the material. This can repel water and guard against stains. Be sure to apply the spray in a well-ventilated area and allow it to fully dry before wearing the sandals.
• Storage — When not in use, especially during off-seasons, store your sandals in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, which can cause some materials to fade or become brittle. Try not to stack sandals on top of each other, as this can lead to them becoming misshapen. If possible, use shoe trees or stuff them with acid-free tissue paper to help them retain their shape.
• Regular Checks — Regularly inspect your sandals for any damage. If you spot a loose strap or a worn sole, take them to a cobbler for repair. Catching and addressing these issues early can extend the life of your sandals and is often more cost-effective than waiting until they’re beyond repair.
• Mindful Usage — Be mindful of where and how you’re using your sandals. While sustainable sandals are designed for durability, they’re not indestructible. Avoid wearing them in situations they’re not designed for. For instance, don’t wear delicate cork sandals on a rugged hiking trail.
• Rotating Footwear — It can be tempting to wear your favorite pair of sustainable sandals every day during the summer, but shoes benefit from a rest period between wears. This allows any moisture they’ve absorbed to dry out fully, which can help prevent odor and the growth of bacteria. If possible, try to rotate between two or more pairs of sandals.

By following these maintenance tips, you can ensure your sustainable sandals stay in great condition for many summers to come. Remember, the most sustainable product is the one that lasts the longest.