Updated: January 2024
Veganism isn’t just about food. People who adopt a vegan lifestyle don’t buy any products made from animals, including beauty products and clothing. That includes hiking boots.
Below, read about my choice of the best vegan hiking boots. I’ve also included my selection of vegan hiking shoes, boots for women, winter weather, and several other categories. That way, you can find the perfect cruelty-free pair. See also my text best vegan boots here.
Vegan Hiking Shoes
For Women
Vegan Barefoot Hiking Shoes
Affordable Vegan Hiking Boots
What To Consider
Best Vegan Hiking Boots Overall
XPETI Women’s Thermator Mid High-Top Waterproof Outdoor Hiking Boot
XPETI’s slogan is “inspired by nature,” and they engineer all their products for safety and comfort first. Be aware that not all of their products are vegan, so double-check if another shoe catches your eye.
These mid-high-top vegan hiking boots come in black, white, gray, and camouflage. These boots are especially great in the winter, with superior insulation that keeps your feet safe and warm down to -13 degrees Fahrenheit.
When hiking, the trail grip soles prevent slips, and the flexible midsole lets me move while absorbing shock and preventing my feet from wearing out. These are the best vegan hiking boots for long hikes with some climbing, but lightweight enough to wear as walking shoes.
Pros
- Durable and comfortable
- Lightweight and fantastic for travel
- Reviewers continually rave about their comfort
- Can be used in various settings, including hiking, working, gardening, and traveling
- Even though comfort is a bigger priority, these shoes are stylish
- They’re easy to break in
Cons
- XPETI is not a vegan company
- The boots are waterproof, but can’t be submerged for too long
- They tend to run small
Product Details
- Waterproof: Yes
- Best For: Appropriate for cold weather to -13 degrees Fahrenheit
- Materials: X-grip rubber outsole with 7mm multidirectional lugs, molding rubber toe cap, and molding TPU at the heel
- Features: Integrated inserted EVA midsole and cushioned footbed
- Price: $52.99-$72.99 from Xpeti (prices may vary)
Shop XPETI Vegan Hiking Boots from Amazon or from XPETI
Best Vegan Hiking Shoes
Will’s Vegan WVSport Waterproof Hiking Shoes (US), or (UK)
You would never know that these are hiking shoes by looking at them; they look just like a pair of regular tennis shoes. That’s one of the best things about Will’s Vegan Store. These shoes are not only vegan but also completely carbon neutral, from manufacturing to shipping.
Founded in 2013, this company strives to make it easy for its customers to find high-quality vegan products, mainly clothing and footwear. They sell sandals, sneakers, jackets, wallets, and more.
One of the best things about these shoes is their breathability while still being waterproof. I’ve submerged them (not for long, granted), and my foot stayed relatively dry.
They have a waterproof membrane between your foot and the shoe’s exterior, a sealed tongue, and treated uppers. At the same time, I haven’t noticed my foot getting sweaty or feeling choked inside the shoe. Read my full Will’s Vegan Shoes Review Here.
Pros
- Hikers love the traction these shoes have
- Vibram rubber injection outsoles.
- You can remove the insoles to customize your fit
- These shoes are very waterproof
- You have 365 days to return them, free of charge
- Will’s Vegan Store offers international, carbon-neutral shipping to several countries
Cons
- Soles can wear out quickly
- They only come in black
- They’re on the pricey side
Product Details
- Waterproof: Yes
- Features: Removable EVA insoles and long-lasting articulated lace hooks
- Available colors: Black
- Price: $130 from Will’s (prices may vary)
Shop Will’s Vegan Hiking Shoes (US), or (UK), or from Immaculate Vegan
Best Vegan Hiking Boots for Women
Will’s Vegan Store WVSport Waterproof Boot (US), (UK)
My favorite pair of hiking boots that are tailored especially for women are these Will’s Vegan boots. As stated above, Will’s Vegan Store is a terrific resource if you’re looking for high-quality vegan products.
These boots are incredibly durable. The outsoles are ballistically welded onto the uppers, so you don’t have to worry about them separating. The uppers are made from solid material that also won’t scuff, and the entire boots are entirely waterproof while still breathing and keeping your feet cool.
One of the best things about these boots is the traction and stability they give you while hiking and climbing. Thanks to the Vibram rubber injection outsoles, you can stop and turn on a dime while preventing slips and falls.
The extra ankle support is ideal if you find your ankles turning or giving out before you’re ready to quit. Read my full Will’s Vegan Shoes Review Here.
Pros
- Fantastic stability
- You can remove the insoles for better fit or comfortability
- Comfortable, extra ankle support
Cons
- The fit can be particular
- The company may overemphasize the waterproofing
Product Details
- Waterproof: Yes. The product is lab-tested materials with waterproof seams and tongue
- Available colors: Black, dark blue, and dark brown
- Materials: Vibram rubber injection outsoles and the uppers are made from Lyliane 3DMX and Cordura materials
- Features: CAD design technology
- Price: $159 from Will’s (prices may vary)
Shop Will’s Vegan Hiking Boots for Women (US), or (UK), or from Immaculate Vegan
Best Vegan Barefoot Hiking Shoes
Some people love to feel the ground as much as possible when they’re on the trail. If that’s you, then these barefoot hiking shoes are the best option. Vivobarefoot makes several lines of their signature footwear, which don’t look like you can feel the ground as much as you can.
Sustainability is at the heart of everything this Certified B Corporation does. They believe that barefoot footwear is more sustainable. Perhaps more importantly, they want to bring their customers closer to nature and the earth, improving their connection to it.
These barefoot shoes are wide, thin, and flexible. As barefoot hiking shoes, they don’t provide the same kind of cushioning or shock absorption as a typical boot. At the same time, Vivobarefoot’s unique engineering uses the highest-quality materials and technology to protect and support you during your hike.
Pros
- An environmentally-friendly brand that’s dedicated to connecting to nature
- People with flat feet or low arches love these shoes
- Built-in neoprene ankle sock keeps dirt and debris out
Cons
- Might be challenging to get on and off due to the built-in neoprene ankle sock
- Some users don’t think they breathe well and are too sweaty on the hottest days
- They are not fully waterproof
Product Details
- Waterproof: Not fully, but they are water-resistant
- Features: Seamless design for durability and comfort
- Materials: Slash-proof durable nylon upper and built-in neoprene ankle sock
- Available colors: Black gum and Obsidian
- Price: These shoes start at $107, but prices may vary
Shop Vivobarefoot Vegan Barefoot Hiking Shoes form Amazon, or from Vivobarefoot
Best Vegan Affordable Hiking Boots
XPETI Women’s Thermator Mid High-Top Waterproof Outdoor Hiking Boot
I already discussed this particular pair of boots above since it’s my choice for the best overall hiking boot. But I have to give it the affordable award as well since it’s priced at only $50.99-$79.99.
Thanks partly to the affordability, this is a versatile hiking boot appropriate for beginners and advanced climbers. I recommend buying at least a half-size larger than your regular street shoe. If your feet are between sizes, order a full size larger.
You can see the full product description above. Here are a few more pros and cons.
Pros
- Extremely affordable
- Versatile due to weight
- Extraordinarily lightweight yet durable, especially for the price
Cons
- They run small
- Some users find the shoe stiff
- It may take some time to break them in
Product Details
- Waterproof: Yes
- Best For: Appropriate for cold weather to -13 degrees Fahrenheit
- Materials: X-grip rubber outsole with 7mm multidirectional lugs, molding rubber toe cap, and molding TPU at the heel
- Features: Integrated inserted EVA midsole and cushioned footbed
- Price: $50.99-$72.99 from Xpeti (prices may vary)
Shop XPETI Vegan Hiking Boots from Amazon or from XPETI
What To Consider When Buying Vegan Hiking Boots
There’s a lot to consider when you choose vegan hiking boots to ensure you get a pair that is durable, comfortable, and suited to your needs. Below are the things I consider when buying a new pair of boots.
Understanding Hiking Boot Categories
The first consideration is understanding hiking boot categories. You’ll hear boots described as either lightweight, midweight, or heavyweight.
Lightweight
True to their name, lightweight boots are the lightest, and while you can get a high-quality pair, they’re usually not appropriate for long, strenuous trips. Lightweight hiking boots are generally enough for beginner and intermediate hikers.
Midweight
Midweight boots are typically more expensive, made from more durable material, and capable of making more extended trips. If you’re thinking of hitting a longer route, opt for this category.
Heavyweight
Heavyweight boots are the stiffest, hardiest category of boots. Usually the most expensive type of boots, these are meant for days-long treks and advanced hikes.
Boots Versus Shoes
The difference between boots and shoes is primarily the height. Boots extend over your ankles while shoes fit more like sneakers.
Stiffness and Stability
Finding the right balance between stiffness and stability can be challenging. Stiffness helps prevent muscle fatigue and provides more stability but can be less comfortable overall. Always read reviews and see what other customers have to say about the boot’s stiffness.
Weight and Materials
Weight will relate to the category of shoes, but it also has to do with materials. Some of the best materials, like GoreTex, are very light. As a vegan, double-check any pair you buy to ensure it doesn’t have animal products, such as leather or suede.
Waterproofing, Protection, and Breathability
The most crucial aspect of choosing a hiking shoe isn’t comfort; it’s safety. Your boots must protect your feet, but that means something different depending on your hiking habits.
If you traverse particularly rocky terrain, you need thick soles and good traction. If it’s rainy and muddy, look for superior waterproofing. If you live somewhere very hot and you frequently hike in the summer months, you need something breathable.
Outsoles, Insoles, and More
As you hike more often, you’ll become more familiar with the parts of your hiking shoes. The uppers, midsoles, outsoles, insoles, traction, and toe protection are all made from different materials in different shoes. They have to do with the durability, feel, and mileage of the shoes.
Why Trust Me & TopVeganShoes.com?
I launched my own vegan shoe brand from scratch. Through that process I learned everything what goes to produce quality vegan shoes. I negotiated materials and production to ensure a quality product.
Through that learning process I am confident I can transparently offer a great and trustworthy review.
Also, I have operated this site since early 2020, almost daily keeping up with the market to keep my eyes open for new innovative materials, production styles and new players in the market.
I also buy many of the shoes and actually try them, wear them to create even better review. In addition, we scour feedback online to see if other people’s experience of the shoes are similar to ours.
Read more about me here.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are you still unsure how to pick the best vegan hiking boots? Below are some common questions about these shoes.
Are vegan hiking boots durable?
Yes – vegan hiking boots are as stable as non-vegan boots like those from Hi-Tec and other reputable companies. You don’t need animal products to make a product that can climb many, many miles.
Are GoreTex boots vegan?
Yes – GoreTex is a type of material that’s used in many products, and since it’s not animal-derived, it’s vegan.
Are vegan hiking boots waterproof?
Some of them are, while others are water resistant. Several of the pairs above are waterproof, as indicated in the product description.
Final Thoughts: Finding Your Perfect Vegan Hiking Boots
Above are the best vegan hiking boots that beginners and hiking experts will love. Whether you decide to give our overall favorite a try or opt for another on our list, the most important thing is finding the pair that makes you want to hit the trail more often.