Best Vegan Boots To Buy In 2024 For Women And Men

Updated: December 2024

A good pair of vegan boots will keep you cozy all through winter. I have selected the best brands for the job. Discover cruelty-free winter boots, fashion boots, and hiking boots from Dr. Martens, Will’s, Merrell, and others.

When vegan boots used to be difficult to find, the selection these days is tremendous. Many vegan brands even specialize in crafting high-quality boots from leather-free materials. Also, traditional shoe companies like Dr. Martens and Blundstone have come out with their vegan collections as well.

So whether you are looking for vegan winter boots or heeled boots to take to the streets, check out our collection of the best boots and booties out there.

See all of my texts on vegan boots: vegan chelsea boots, vegan leather boots, vegan winter boots, vegan work boots, vegan hiking boots & waterproof vegan boots

Best Vegan Boots Overall

Will’s Vegan Store WV Sport Sequoia Edition (US) or (UK)

I bought my pair for last winter and have loved them ever since.

Will’s Vegan Store is PETA approved, so you know you won’t get any animal products in the boot materials, including fabrics, glues, and laces. Based on its lack of plastic packaging materials and recycled components in all products, the company is carbon neutral. In 2020, they introduced a biodegradable sneaker, changing the scope of vegan footwear for the better.

The company delivers quality shoes and boots using CAD design software to simulate walking. Before footwear ever goes into production, the designers know how it will function, and this foresight is especially helpful considering Will’s Vegan Store’s innovative materials.

The WV Sport Sequoia Edition vegan boots are a lower version of high tops, so you still get ankle support without stiff boots coming up too high. The sports aspect makes them feel more like athletic shoes while giving you the sturdiness you need for hiking.

Fabric loops keep the shoelaces in place, with an additional metal hook at the top to provide ankle support. The laces slide through the loops, making it easy to tie and untie the boots. A finger tab on the back of the boot simplifies putting the shoes on or popping them off after a long day or exhausting hike.

The durability and design of these boots make them the best overall choice. The black boots look durable with a slight shine, while the gray option looks sporty due to the matte microfiber accents. They can work as an accent to any outfit, but the color options make it even easier to wear these vegan boots as your go-to.

The WV Sport Sequoia Edition has outsoles injected with Vibram rubber, delivering impressive traction and grip. Whether hiking a mountain or walking across slippery tile, these vegan boots provide the necessary stability. The manufacturer ballistically welds the soles onto the shoe’s upper part, so you won’t see them pull apart as you do with other boots.

The shoe’s upper part uses both Cordura and Lyliane 3DMX to craft a durable boot with a striking aesthetic. The materials are waterproof, with seams specially sewn to ensure no water permeates the thread.

You can return the shoes when you’ve worn them out, and the company will harvest what they can to use on new shoes and boots, making them even more environmentally friendly.

Another perk of buying from this company is their return policy. If your boots wear out too quickly, contact customer support. They are happy to refund, replace, or repair a purchase, so you get the quality vegan boots you expect when buying from Will’s Vegan Store.

Read our full Will’s Vegan Shoes Review Here.

Pros

• Customers say they are comfortable and I concur
• All the materials are waterproof
• You can return your used shoes to the company for them to reuse the materials.

Cons

• The design can be mundane to some
• My boot’s rubber started flaking after a few months
• Reviews mention that the toe cap’s waterproof coating didn’t have longevity, however, I have used mine for a over a year and have not ran into that problem

Product Details

Waterproof: Yes
Upper Material: Lyliane 3DMX and Cordura
Price: $159 From Will’s
Peta Certified: Yes

Shop Vegan Boots from Will’s Vegan Store (US), from Will’s UK, Immaculate Vegan Or from Amazon.

Best Vegan Winter Boots

Will’s Vegan Store Vegan Leather Dock Boot (US), (UK)

If you’re worried that vegan materials won’t keep you warm all winter, think again. Will’s Vegan Store makes these great vegan winter shoes that keep your feet toasty. The company designed this style of boot in 2015, and it quickly became their most popular option. Once you give them a try, you’ll see why.

The vegan leather looks genuine, so you don’t have to sacrifice style for comfort with these dock boots. The vegan suede nicely complements the look, and you can even turn the grain when you rub your hand across it, like natural suede. However, you’re not harming animals or the environment when you buy these boots.

As they come up over your ankle, you can tighten the laces through the metal hooks to deliver the degree of support you need. The ankle padding provides support and keeps the heat inside the boot instead of letting it escape.

Inside the boot, you’ll find two types of vegan suede delivering warmth and comfort you’d be more likely to associate with fuzzy slippers. The suede keeps heat inside the boots while allowing your foot to breathe.

On the outside of the boot, you have thick outsoles with incredible traction. The tread is just as ideal for winter weather as the soft lining. It gives you a reliable grip on wet, snowy, or icy surfaces in this dock boot. But make sure you don’t stand in a puddle or snowbank for too long because these boots are only water-resistant, not waterproof. See best vegan winter boots here & Read my full Will’s Vegan Shoes Review Here.

Pros

• Comfortable
• Stylish
• Water-resistant

Cons

• They get worn down with time
• Some customers complain about sizing not being accurate
• Heels might squeak

Product Details

Waterproof: Water-resistant
Upper Material: Vegan suede or Italian vegan leather
Price: $124 from Will’s
Peta Certified: Yes

Shop Vegan Winter Boots from Will’s US, Will’s UK, Immaculate Vegan Or from Amazon.

Best Vegan Boots For Women

Dr. Martens Jadon II Vegan Boot

Dr. Martens is a major name in the boot industry, so it’s exciting that they offer a vegan option. If you’re looking for vegan boots for women, you’ll love the Jadon II Platform Boots. While many brands on this list offer black or brown boots, these are cherry red Oxford Brush. This rich color contrasts nicely with the signature yellow stitching on the black sole.

Overall, these boots embody a lot of the traditional Dr. Martens style. There are eight eyelets with metal grommets for secure lacing. The boot body looks like any Dr. Martens you’d see in the store, except Oxford Brush is a synthetic material, so it’s completely vegan.

Though the base is a platform, the interior uses the signature Airwair cushioned sole. The platform itself is 1.85 inches high, with a two-inch heel. The treads at the bottom are as durable as you’d expect from this brand, making them slip-resistant even in oil and fat.

Consider these boots if you’re looking for something new and unique from an established brand.

Pros

• Customers mention that they didn’t have to break them in
• Authentic Dr. Martens look
• Slip-resistant

Cons

• Customers have experienced the sole falling off after 11 months.
• Some mention that the leather feels stiff
• Inconsistent sizing
• Some products have faded areas on the toe and heel, and some don’t.

Product Details

Waterproof: Yes
Upper Material: Oxford Rub Off synthetic material
Price: Ranges from 100 to 250
Peta Certified: Yes

Shop Here The Dr. Martens Vegan Jadon II

Best Vegan Boots For Men

Will’s Vegan Store Chelsea Boot For Men (US), (UK)

Chelsea boots offer a timeless style, and these men’s boots come in black or dark brown, so you know they’ll go with anything in your closet.

The uppers consist of vegan plant-based leather that’s breathable and water-resistant, so your feet won’t sweat, and you can wear them on rainy days. The cushioned rubber insoles keep their shape over the years, so these boots give consistent support.

The outsoles are durable rubber that grips any terrain so you can walk confidently. With the elastic gusset typical on Chelsea boots, you’ll have no problem sliding these laceless boots over your heels. They fit close to your ankle for a secure fit and mod style.

Will’s Vegan Store offers free returns for a year, so you have plenty of time to try out these boots and make sure they fit your needs. Once you’ve worn these shoes for years, you can return them to Will’s Vegan Store for proper disposal. These boots are genuinely animal- and environmentally friendly. Read my full Will’s Vegan Shoes Review Here.

Pros

• Comfortable
• High-quality look
• Easy to put on

Cons

• Some customers broke the pull loop off the first time they removed the boots.
• The pull loop could be larger for a better finger grip.
• If you already own a pair, the sizing of the new pair might be looser.

Product Details

Waterproof: Water-resistant
Upper Material: Italian vegan leather originating from plants
Price: $137 from Will’s
Peta Certified: Yes

Shop Men’s Vegan Boots from Will’s US, Will’s UK, Immaculate Vegan Or from Amazon.

Best Vegan Waterpoof Boots

Good Guys Don’t Wear Leather BLAZE, Vegan Ankle Boot

Water-resistant boots resist moisture and keep your feet dry on rainy or snowy days, but if you step in a puddle, you might end up with wet socks. However, with waterproof boots, you can step into a puddle, and your feet will remain dry. The material protects your feet, and a waterproof coating protects the fabric.

These waterproof vegan boots from Good Guys Don’t Wear Leather will fool anyone who sees them. Believe it or not, they’re made from AppleSkin, a bio-based leather alternative that uses waste from juice manufacturers. The material comes from Italy, and the company makes the boots in France. The microfiber lining wicks away sweat to keep your feet comfortable all day.

These boots lace up the front through six eyelets reinforced with metal grommets. The sole is rubber with a wooden heel. There are no half sizes from this brand, so choose your actual size or size up for comfort. The boots are unisex, so they will fit and look amazing on anyone.

As they’re waterproof, you don’t have to be too careful when wearing or cleaning these boots. But to ensure they last as long as possible, you can wash them with an eco-friendly soap purchased directly from Good Guys Don’t Wear Leather. You can also use anything suitable for microfiber or synthetic leather. See best waterproof vegan boots here and Read my full Good Guys Don’t Wear Leather Review Here.

Pros

• Absorbent lining to avoid sweaty feet
• Versatile for casual and stylish outings
• Waterproof

Cons

• The pull loop might be a bit too noticeable for some

Product Details

Waterproof: Yes
Upper Material: AppleSkin
Price: $171.90
Peta Certified: Yes

Shop Good Guys Waterproof Vegan Boots From Immaculate Vegan or from GG

Best Vegan Chelsea Boots

Blundstone #2115

Chelsea boots are ankle boots with an elastic inset. The flexible panel blends or contrasts with the boot design, depending on your aesthetic. These boots look great on anyone, as witnessed by famous wearers, including Queen Victoria and the Rolling Stones. The style was especially popular with models in London during the 1950s and 60s.

Vegan Chelsea boots give you this classic style without any of the animals getting harmed. The elastic panel ensures you can pull these ankle boots over your heel without needing laces or buckles. The loops at the top of the shoes give you something to grip as you pull them into place.

Blundstone offers vegan Chelsea boots with a vegan microfiber exterior and breathable microfiber lining. The fabric is antibacterial and antimicrobial, so you don’t have to worry about your sweat causing bacteria to flourish in your boots. 

The insoles also offer a lot of comfort due to the anti-compression materials. Think of it like memory foam for your feet. You can wear these boots every day and still get the same quality support from the insole as you did the first day you put them on. They also have a toe spring that prevents the soles of your feet from wearing out whether you’re walking or standing. See best vegan chelsea boots here.

Pros

• Lining offers temperature regulation
• Long-lasting material
• Comfort Lite Footbed offers added support and comfort
• Elastic gusset doesn’t stretch out with wear

Cons

• Some customers note that you should order one size up.

Product Details

Waterproof: Water-resistant
Upper Material: Vegan verified microfibre (onMicro® Technology)
Price: $209.95 from Blundstone
Peta Certified: Yes

Shop Blundstone Vegan Chelsea Boots on Amazon or from Blundstone.

Best Vegan Hiking Boots

XPETI Thermator Mid High-Top Waterproof Outdoor Hiking Boot

XPETI creates shoes for endurance sports, so they have high-quality hiking boots. The outsoles offer impressive grip for hiking and climbing on wet or dry terrain. The waterproof finish can withstand extreme weather, keeping your feet dry and ensuring you don’t lose traction. A Thinsulate lining keeps your feet warm even in frigid temperatures.

The insoles are some of the best on the market, and they come in any boot you buy from this brand. The X-FIT insoles have a sturdy arch for constant support, while the deep cushion heel cup prevents shock or pain when you step down. The quick-drying material provides maximum comfort and odor resistance.

The boots themselves look sturdy and robust. You can choose from black, gray, white, and camouflage. As they run a little small, you should order half a size larger for comfort. You can always wear thicker socks for more cushion and a better fit. 

As these hiking boots are a lower model of high tops, they deliver reliable ankle support. The laces go up your ankle and securely hold with metal hooks. Despite the incredible traction on these boots, you can wear them for everyday use, walking, and driving without wearing the tread. See best vegan hiking boots here.

Pros

• Excellent for cold and rainy weather conditions
• Variety of colors to choose from
• Ankle support
• Offers good grip

Cons

• Some customers experience inconsistent sizing
• The waterproof coating may start to wear off
• Not the most comfortable

Product Details

Waterproof: Yes
Upper Material: Hydroshield membrane
Price: $59.99 – $72.99 from Xpeti
Peta Certified: Yes

Shop Xpeti Vegan Hiking Boots on Amazon or from Xpeti.

Best Vegan Ankle Boots

Good Guys Don’t Wear Leather EDDIE Vegan Ankle Motorcycle Boots

Vegan ankle boots come in many styles, and you can find various options from Good Guys Don’t Wear Leather. Flat, heeled, black, brown, white—there’s something for everyone.

The EDDIE boots are on the list because these motorcycle ankle boots demand attention. They have metal accents, including a ring and silver grommets holding black straps in place like a harness. The material around the ankle has unique striped stitching to give these boots an element of rock and roll style.

The boots are Oeko-Tex Standard 100, meaning they’re both vegan and free of toxins. They still look like a motorcycle boot, though, down to the square toe. The sole is an elastomer, and the heels are wooden. To clean these parts, use a soft brush to remove any dried dirt. You can also brush them after the rain to prevent wet spots from changing the boots’ color.

These vegan ankle boots ship from Paris in eco-friendly packaging. Good Guys Don’t Wear Leather is lowering its carbon footprint in every way possible and helping you do the same. As you learned in the waterproof vegan boot review, they offer many innovative materials for their shoes, so you’re sure to find something you love. Read my full Good Guys Don’t Wear Leather Review Here.

Pros

• Fashionable
• Comfortable
• Easy to put on

Cons

• The style might not be to everyone’s taste.

Product Details

Waterproof: Water-resistant
Upper Material: Microfiber
Price: $161.90
Peta Certified: Yes

Shop Good Guys Vegan Ankle Boots From Immaculate Vegan or from GGDWL.

Best Vegan Booties

Lisbon Black High Heel Ankle Booties

These vegan booties are a modern take on a classic look. The black vegan leather has a slight sheen that can dress up any outfit. The chunky heel is three inches tall with impressive tread on the sole. Though these boots look stylish, you don’t have to worry about slipping when you wear them.

The sides of the booties have an elastic gusset, and there’s a finger loop on the back so you can easily slide them over your heel. They hit right at your ankle and fit true to size, but some people find them wider than standard booties. As there’s no comfort insole provided, the extra width gives you some leeway when inserting your own cushioned liners.

Lulus stocks trendy fashion items, so make sure that you check the materials used when looking at other products. 

Pros

• Comfortable heel
• Customers say these boots are good value for money
• Stylish

Cons

• Some customers note that the boots feel bulky
• The sole is too flat for some

Product Details

Waterproof: Water-resistant
Upper Material: Artificial materials
Price: $68
Peta Certified: No

Shop Lulus Here

Best Vegan Leather Boots

Bohema Workers No. 2 Desserto® Cactus Leather Vegan Boots

If you’re looking for classic vegan leather boots, Anette has what you need. The material is cactus leather from Nopal cactus, which you might know as the prickly pear. Manufacturers harvest Nopal cactus leaves without harming the rest of the plant and dry them in the sun, using no energy in the leather-making process.

Immaculate Vegan is a marketplace for ethical and sustainable products, so you can rest assured that they’ve vetted all the products they offer.

When you look at these boots, you’ll think they’re genuine leather. But buying them means you’re positively impacting the world by supporting plant-based, organic businesses. Though the vegan leather comes from a cactus plant, it’s as smooth as the actual fabric. A breathable mesh lining and recycled rubber sole round out these stylish boots. See best vegan leather boots here.

Pros

• Great look that goes with all styles
• Good for all seasons
• Waterproof

Cons

• Cactus leather is only partially biodegradable.

Product Details

Waterproof: Waterproof
Upper Material: Desserto® cactus leather
Price: $100
Peta Certified: Will be certified

Shop Workers No. 2 Vegan Leather Boots from Immaculate Vegan or from Bohema

Best Vegan Work Boots

Will’s Vegan Store Work Boots (US), (UK)

There’s another boot from Will’s Vegan Store because everything they offer is just that good. You can buy these boots in black, dark brown, chestnut, or tan.

Each boot with a brown shade of vegan leather has gold metal grommets and hooks for the shoelaces, which are dark brown. The black boots have shiny silver metal grommets and hooks for the black laces.

All soles are thick recycled rubber with deep treads, so you can be sure-footed on any surface. The breathable vegan suede lining keeps your feet comfortable. Though these boots lace up, there’s also a finger tab on the back to help you quickly get them over your heel. As with other boots from Will’s Vegan Store, return them for recycling when you’re done wearing them. See best vegan work boots here and Read my full Will’s Vegan Shoes Review Here.

Pros

• Versatile
• Durable
• Customers say they are comfortable

Cons

• Some customers say they should have ordered half a size up
• Customers have found that sizes are either too big or too small
• Reviews note that the heel may split
• The tongue might shift to the side

Product Details

Waterproof: Water-resistant
Upper Material: Vegan leather (made with 69% bio-oil)
Price: $127
Peta Certified: Yes

Shop Vegan Work Boots from Will’s US, Will’s UK, Immaculate Vegan Or from Amazon.

Best Vegan Lace-up Boots

Vegetarian Shoes Vintage Boot Low Zip

These vegan lace-up boots are unique because they also have a side zipper. You can use either option to put on and take off the shoes. The hidden zippers are on the inner sides, so they look like standard lace-up boots from the front.

Adding to the style is the stitching on these boots. There are three rows of decorative seams across the toes and around the lower vegan leather shoelace portions. When it comes to the boots’ interior, padded insoles add comfort.

The exterior of the soles is hard resin, but the tread isn’t as thick as many options on this list. These boots are more for style and casual wear than all-terrain walking or hiking. Though they’re not waterproof, the manufacturer advises you to use a water-resistant spray to protect your boots from the elements.

Vegetarian Shoes started in 1990 when its founder started to make vegan shoes. The business grew so fast that the owner soon couldn’t keep up and decided to get a footwear factory to manufacture the shoes.

Pros

• The zip makes these boots easy to put on and take off
• You can use the zip or the laces

Cons

• Tread isn’t as thick as some other options on this list
• Not waterproof

Product Details

Waterproof: Water-resistant
Upper Material: Vegetan Uppers
Price: $110
Peta Certified: Unclear

Shop Vegan Lace-Up Boots from Vegetarian Shoes Here

Best Vegan Snow Boots

Kamik Women’s Momentum Snow Boot

Will’s Vegan Store Vegan Leather Dock Boot will keep you warm all winter, but they’re not built for snow like this option from Kamik. One look at these boots gives you an idea of their warmth and protection from the elements.

Instead of laces to tie, the boots have elastic bungee cords to pull tight after you get your foot into the boot. This design feature keeps warmth inside the boots and snow and ice out. Thinsulate lining also keeps your feet warm, even when hiking across snowy terrain.

The boot itself is waterproof synthetic nylon. A faux fur border adds warmth and comfort to the top of the boot. The gusseted tongue keeps snow out even as you’re removing your foot, instead of a standard tongue that would let snow in as soon as you untie the shoelaces and move your foot. See best vegan winter boots here.

Pros

• Wide variety of colors to choose from
• Comfortable
• Good tread

Cons

• They are a bit heavy
• Some customers say their feet were cold, although the boots kept them dry.
• Elastic laces may snap.

Product Details

Waterproof: Yes
Upper Material: Synthetic nylon
Price: $137.51 from Kamik (prices can vary)
Peta Certified: No

Shop Kamik Momentum from Amazon or from Kamik.

Best Vegan Rain Boots

Asgard Women’s Ankle Rain Boots Waterproof

One of my favorites vegan rain boots by design are Asgard Women’s Ankle Rain Boots Waterproof Chelsea Boots. They are absolutely fantastic and affordable.

In addition to Asgard I can warmly recommend Kamik Heidi Vegan Rain Boots.

Kamik isn’t only known for their high-quality vegan snow boots—they also offer vegan rain boots. These glossy boots use artificial materials and come in black, navy, red, and yellow. The rubber sole has thick treads to keep you steady on your feet as you navigate rain-slick surfaces. 

For people who have trouble choosing the right size rain boots, Kamik gives you all the dimensions you need. The shoes themselves run true to size, so you don’t need to size up unless you plan to wear thick socks. The leg opening is 13.5 inches in diameter, so you can make sure they fit your calves.

Pros

• Customers love the bright color options
• Lightweight
• Reasonable price

Cons

• Some customers say the calf sizing is too narrow.

Product Details

Waterproof: Yes
Upper Material: Recyclable rubber
Price: $34.10 – $79.97 from Kamik (prices can vary)
Peta Certified: No

Shop Kamik Heidi from Amazon or from Kamik.

Best Vegan High Heel Boots

Vegan boots do not have to be solely practical. You can also find heeled fashion boots made from cruelty-free materials in all shapes and colorways. Here are our favorite brands for women’s vegan boots Matt & Nat to Nature Breeze and Lulu’s.

Veerah The Perfect Ankle Boot

New York brand Veerah has recently launched its very first vegan ankle boot Hedy that ticks all of our boxes. It is ethical, sustainable, and comfortable, featuring soft and breathable vegan leather.

In addition to black, you can also order the boot in a variety of custom colors such as this mesmerizing ‘Almond’.

SHOP VEERAH BOOTS HERE

Vegan Knee High Boots

Knee high boots are the timeless classic. Here is a list of best tall vegan boots, knee high vegan boots, and over the knee vegan boots from both luxury and affordable brands.

‣ BC Footwear Tall Vegan Boot – available in black and cognac
‣ Nae Knee High Vegan Boots – flat and heeled options
‣ Vivaia Knitted Boots – from recycled plastic bottles

Vegan Cowboy Boots

If you are looking for vegan cowboy boots, check out these collections from Matisse, Kat Mendenhall, Will’s and Good Guys. From tall boots to ankle boots, these Western styles look stunning and are built to last.

‣ Matisse Women’s Vegan Western Boot– bestseller
‣ Kat Mendenhall Vegan Cowboy Boots

Vegan Rain Boots

Quality rain boots will keep your feet dry through rain, mud, and puddles. Discover fashionable and ethical vegan rain boots and wellingtons from Matt & Nat and Roma Boots.

‣ ROMA Vegan Rain Boots
‣ Matt & Nat Vegan Rain Boots

What To Consider When Buying Vegan Boots?

The list of 15 best vegan boots gives you a good idea of what’s available on the market. As much as there’s a selection for different people, styles, and needs, you might be looking for something else. In that case, knowing what to consider when buying vegan boots ensures you’ll get what you want.

The following qualities are things you should think about before buying your vegan boots. It also gives you an idea of what to check out in each boot’s specifications and wearer reviews to know if they deliver.

Style

The style of boot you choose is very personal. You might want something that looks sleek for a night out. Or you might need a sturdy work boot and not care much about its appearance. You might not care if they’re black or brown, have the signature Timberland look, or something different.

Picking the right style of boot impacts all the following factors. Once you narrow your selections by this type, you’ll be able to weed out other options based on these considerations.

Material

If you’re shopping for vegan boots, the material matters most. You don’t want to buy leather boots or any that use animal products or undergo animal testing. So knowing about the materials available for sturdy vegan boots will significantly impact the shoes you purchase.

Vegan shoes don’t use leather, suede, or wool. There’s no animal fur, hair, or wool in the components. Other animal parts factor into your consideration, too, since some glues use animal products as an ingredient or during manufacturing. 

You also want to stay away from buying shoes associated with animal testing. It doesn’t mean a cow is walking around in your boots to ensure they don’t create blisters. It means that no products the boot manufacturer use go through animal testing. The glue that binds pieces together, for instance, doesn’t need to go through animal testing to prove it’s non-toxic.

You can keep a list of vegan materials and know that boots made from those fabrics are suitable. Some options include:

• Canvas
• Corduroy
• Cork
• Cotton
• Faux leather
• Faux suede
• Polyester

Other manufactured and synthetic materials not listed count as vegan fabrics. You can also look for symbols on the boot tags. Vegan, synthetic, or manufactured fabrics have a diamond or crosshatch logo on the tag. Any items made of animal materials have a shape that looks like a stretched bearskin rug.

You can also look for the “Peta-Approved Vegan” logo. Since you might worry that brands will lie to look better, check Peta’s website for a list of verified manufacturers that are truly vegan. There are over 1,000 vegan brands you can find online or in department stores, so you’re sure to find vegan boots that suit your style.

Brands are getting more innovative with their vegan materials. Adidas developed mushroom leather for sneakers. H&M partnered with a company to make shoes from banana plants. If these materials are strong enough to create athletic shoes, they’ll hopefully be a viable option for sturdy boots, too.

The good thing about synthetic materials like faux suede and faux leather is that they look as stylish as genuine suede and leather, with no animal cruelty involved. Even if you want a vegan boot that looks like leather, it’s cool to see so many unique styles available.

Waterproofing

Not all vegan boots are waterproof, so it’s something you’ll want to look for specifically. Some claim you can waterproof any boots with a waterproof spray or wax, but this method isn’t ideal for vegan boots. These solutions will react differently to synthetic materials than genuine leather or suede, so you might ruin your boots when you try.

If you’re determined to waterproof your vegan boots, you can apply a bit of the spray or wax on any part of the boot that isn’t too visible, like on the inner arch or the back of the ankle. But if you’re buying vegan boots because they’re animal- and environmentally friendly, adding waterproof substances can change that.

You’ll need to ensure you’ve purchased a waterproof spray or wax that doesn’t use animal parts or test on animals. You’ll also want to be cautious of using an aerosol can to apply the chemicals to your boots.

The best option is to buy waterproof vegan boots in the first place. There are plenty of options on the market, including Good Guys Don’t Wear Leather BLAZE Vegan Ankle Boot, as reviewed above. You don’t have to do anything to the boots to protect them from water damage, and they’ll also protect your feet from water.

When you buy waterproof boots, you will get the bonus of breathable material integrated into the shoe design. If you try to waterproof boots on your own, you might damage the material, but you’ll also make it harder for your feet to breathe when wearing them.

Buying waterproof boots means your feet can breathe thanks to liners made of mesh, Gore-Tex, or similar materials. The boots keep water and the elements out but don’t leave you standing in a puddle of your sweat.

Even with waterproof boots, you don’t want to jump in puddles or stand in deep snow purposely. Waterproofing typically prevents your feet from getting wet while walking in the rain or keeps a puddle’s splash from damaging the boot material. Therefore, waterproofing is usually a nice perk of vegan boots but not the deciding factor that will make you buy one pair over another.

Breathability

Finding breathable boots can be a major concern if you wear them all day, for work, or for hikes. Breathable material makes a big difference in terms of your comfort level. Boots that aren’t breathable will have your feet sweating nonstop, which can then cause bacteria to multiply and lead to foot diseases.

Walking around in sweaty socks can also make your feet slide inside the boots, forming blisters. Therefore, breathability should rate highly on the qualities you look for in vegan boots. Because of the materials used for breathable inserts, you can buy boots made of almost any exterior fabric, so you’ll have plenty of choices.

Traction

Many people think traction only matters for hiking or climbing, but it also makes a difference in everyday wear. You don’t want to slip on slick tile or wet surfaces. As boots are already so durable, having sturdy traction only elevates their usefulness.

A thin sole won’t give you much traction, but you don’t need a thick, platform sole to feel steady on your feet. The treads on boot soles influence your traction more than anything else. It also helps if boots have a larger tread area because there’s more surface area to meet the ground and establish a strong connection.

Pay special attention to the treads even if you’re buying boots for style rather than hiking. You can tell by visuals if the tread is deep enough to provide adequate traction on most surfaces. 

Weight

Some people like the look and feel of heavy boots, and while they make a statement, they’re not entirely comfortable for long-term wear. If you need boots for a special event, you might not mind if they’re heavy. But for boots you want to sport daily, you need to consider the weight you’re willing to carry around carefully.

Lightweight boots don’t necessarily look delicate. You can have a sturdy, well-made boot that doesn’t add several pounds to your frame. Lighter boots are usually more affordable because they use less material. Thankfully, synthetic fabrics are less expensive than animal-derived materials like leather and suede.

You can also find midweight vegan boots. These might be your best bet if you’re looking for sturdy boots without wearing anything too heavy. The soles of midweight boots are thicker than lightweight and give you a strong foundation. The material makeup of the rest of the boot can be lighter to make up for the difference.

Midweight and heavyweight boots are also solid choices for vegan boots worn for walking and hiking. They can also look stylish, but you’ll want to invest in something sturdy for that type of use. In the long run, these heavier boots will keep your feet safe and secure while you’re on rocky terrain.

Laces

Choosing a boot with or without laces might seem like a style concern, but laces factor into many situations. If you’re buying vegan work boots, you want sturdy laces so you can pull them tight and know they won’t come untied while you’re working. The holes for the laces also come into play, often needing metal grommets for reinforcement.

Vegan hiking boots might have round laces to prevent loosening and secure hooks near the top to support your ankles as you climb. Once you pick the right pair of boots, you should lace them up to ensure your feet stay comfortable while feeling secure.

Not all vegan boots have laces. Many stylish options are pull-on boots. In those cases, you must ensure you can get the boot on your foot. It might look amazing in your closet, but if you can’t get it past your heel, they’re not of much use. Many pull-on boots have an elastic insert that blends into the boot while giving you extra room to pull it over your heel.

Insoles

Many boots don’t come with insoles but rather a flat bottom that your foot can slip and slide against. As with walking in sweaty socks, walking on a flat insole can cause blisters. It can also lead to foot pain if you wear the boots for long periods.

Comfortable insoles aren’t always an option when shopping for vegan boots, but that shouldn’t stop you. Consider the size of boot you need for your foot, then add in your typical sock thickness. Then, look into different insoles to see what you’d add to your boot for the most comfort. 

If you think all this will add too much thickness to your boots, consider sizing up or buying a wide option. If you buy boots and find that they’re already too big for you, you can purchase insoles that are thick enough to make the boots fit you perfectly. Insoles are a great, affordable solution to many boot sizing and comfort problems.

Toe Protection

Toe protection isn’t something many people consider when buying vegan boots for casual wear. However, it should be. Look at your athletic shoes and see how they have extra sole rubber coming to the top of the toes. Converse made their toe protection into a stylish element. Many dress shoes also have toe protection that doesn’t impact the shoe’s overall aesthetic.

Even if you’re buying boots for style, you want some toe protection. Whether it’s an extra layer of material at the toe, tread coming up the front of the shoe, or internal structural protection, it’s a necessity. If you don’t have it, you’ll notice as soon as you stub your toe.

Work boots and hiking boots typically have toe protection and advertise this fact. If you’re looking for these types of boots, check the specs to see what they offer. Work boots usually have steel structures inside the shoe to protect your feet if you drop something. Hiking boots might have more flexible protection, so you can still get your toes in climbing cracks.

Comfort

When it comes to vegan boots, comfort has a broad meaning. Many boots have a certain stiffness, such as pairs made for hiking or climbing. These boots need a solid structure to protect your feet and ankles during use. They’re likely to have thicker soles and reinforced materials for the body of the boot.

This type of boot can still be comfortable. If you’re an avid hiker, you know what socks to wear and how to break in boots before taking them out on the trail. So what’s comfortable for you as a hiker is different than what’s comfortable for people wanting stylish vegan boots.

If you’re buying vegan boots for everyday wear or special occasions, comfort will mean something else. You’ll want boots that are easy to put on and aren’t too heavy to wear for extended periods. Stylish boots can still have thick soles and sturdy upper materials, but they’ll have more cushion inside the boot.

Knowing how you’ll use the boots and what type of comfort level you typically go for in footwear will help you a lot as you shop for vegan boots. There are so many varieties that you’ll be able to narrow the field with this factor.

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.

FAQ about Vegan Boots

If you need more information before investing in quality vegan boots, check out the answers to these frequently asked questions.

Summary

It is great how many designers today are making quality vegan boots. When using quality vegan materials, there is no need to even think about real leather any longer. And as vegan leather shoes are naturally weather-resistant, they are good for every type of climate by default.

For the future, I wish vegan shoe companies would experiment with natural plant-based materials more. When coupled with synthetics, the material will have all the best qualities whilst being also eco-friendly and sustainable.

I really hope you liked the boots I picked out for you. I will keep updating the list with new finds as I go!