If you’re on the lookout for the perfect hiking boots that not only elevate your trail game but also align with your values, you’ve landed in the right place. In this article, we’re listing the best sustainable hiking boots on the market for 2024.
From rugged terrains to urban escapades, we’ve rounded up a selection of boots that blend style, durability, and eco-consciousness. Wearing one of these, you’ll stride confidently knowing that your outdoor gear is leaving a positive impact on the planet.
And be sure to check out our selection of Eco Shoes for more sustainable footwear options.
Lace up, gear up, and let’s explore the trails with a conscience!
The 6 Best Sustainable Hiking Boots
A good pair of hiking boots needs to have three things: comfort, durability, and traction. It shouldn’t fall apart after a couple of uses, and you shouldn’t suffer from blisters after taking it off.
With these considerations in mind, we rounded up the 6 best sustainable hiking boots on the market:
The Tracker Forest ESC Men’s by VivoBarefoot stands out as a high-performance off-trail boot, engineered to conquer extreme terrains with ease.
As one of the leading contenders among the best sustainable hiking boots, this footwear option seamlessly blends rugged durability, outstanding performance, and an unwavering commitment to environmental sustainability.
While it may come at a slightly higher price point compared to competitors, its exceptional durability and advanced features justify the investment for serious hiking enthusiasts.
Additionally, the Active Ortholite Performance insole, made of 98% recycled PU foam, offers superior comfort and support while minimizing environmental impact.
With a Pro5 puncture-resistant finish and water-resistant, non-absorbent materials, the Tracker Forest also provides both durability and protection in extreme conditions.
credits: https://www.vivobarefoot.com/ca/
Key Features
Pros
Cons
Active Ortholite Performance insole made of 98% recycled materials Pro5 puncture-resistant finish Water-resistant and non-absorbent materials
Designed for extreme terrains and wild adventures. Exceptional durability makes it the most durable hiker in the VivoBarefoot lineup. Active Ortholite Performance insole offers superior comfort and support.
Slightly higher price point compared to competitors. May not be suitable for casual hikers or those on a tight budget.
The Merrell Men’s Moab 3 is engineered to tackle rugged trails while keeping your feet dry and comfortable.
Featuring a waterproof membrane, these boots effectively repel water, ensuring your feet stay dry in wet conditions. The mesh upper and recycled laces and webbing not only enhance breathability but also reflect Merrell’s commitment to sustainability.
The protective toe cap on these boots shields your feet from rocks and debris on the trail. Meanwhile, the 100% recycled mesh lining further highlights the eco-friendly design of these boots.
The Kinetic Fit ADVANCED removable contoured insole offers customizable support, while reinforced heel cushioning and a molded nylon arch shank provide stability and comfort during long hikes.
For further comfort, the Merrell Air Cushion in the heel absorbs shocks, reducing fatigue, while the lightweight EVA foam midsole ensures all-day comfort.
Crafted with the eco-conscious adventurer in mind, the Moab 3 Mid Waterproof from Merrell is a testament to the brand’s dedication to creating the best sustainable hiking boots.
The Merrel Moab 3 isn’t only available for men, but there’s a version for women hikers as well.
credits: https://www.amazon.com/
Key Features
Pros
Cons
Kinetic Fit ADVANCED removable contoured insole Merrell Air Cushion in the heel for shock absorption Vibram TCF5+ rubber soles
A protective toe cap offers additional protection on rugged trails. Removable contoured insole allows for customizable support. Merrell Air Cushion in the heel absorbs shocks for reduced fatigue.
The design may be too rugged for some people. Some users complain about the quality of waterproofing.
The Mason High boot by Forsake features a blend of modern design and eco-conscious construction. It doesn’t have a traditional structured design like most hiking boots do.
While many of the best sustainable hiking boots prioritize rugged, utilitarian design, the Mason High Sneaker Men’s Boots from Forsake offer a refreshing alternative. With their modern, non-rugged aesthetic, these boots can seamlessly transition from the trails to the city streets, so wearers can embrace sustainable footwear without compromising on style.
Made with a waxed canvas upper and full-grain leather, these boots offer a rugged yet stylish appearance suitable for both urban adventures and off-road explorations. They’re not suited for too rough terrains, but they’re okay for beginner-level trails and even surfaces.
Their waterproof construction ensures your feet stay dry in challenging conditions, while the breathable membrane prevents overheating during long hikes.
And to showcase Forsake’s commitment to sustainability, the laces, liner, and webbing are all made of recycled PET.
To cater to all buyers, Forsake makes a similar model for women under the name Wild Sky High.
credits: https://www.forsake.ca
Key Features
Pros
Cons
Memory foam footbed EVA midsole with shock absorption Peak-to-Pavement® outsole for solid traction on all surfaces
Stylish and versatile design for urban and outdoor use. Waterproof construction ensures feet stay dry in wet conditions. Memory foam footbed provides comfort during long hikes. Anti-odor treatment enhances freshness during extended wear.
May require a break-in period for optimal comfort. Some users may prefer a higher ankle for added support on rough terrain.
The HOKA Anacapa 2 Mid GTX is a stride forward in sustainable footwear, offering an updated version of the HOKA Anacapa with more focus on eco-friendly materials.
Beyond just the materials and design, HOKA has also prioritized ethical manufacturing practices in the creation of the Anacapa 2 Mid GTX, ensuring that the best sustainable hiking boots are produced in a manner that respects the well-being of the communities involved.
Designed to excel across all terrains and seasons, these boots combine performance with environmental consciousness.
The leather uppers ensure durability and waterproof protection, while the recycled yarn meshes and soybean-based sock liners contribute to the boot’s eco-friendly profile.
Additionally, the Achilles heel comfort build and abrasion-resistant toe box improve comfort and longevity.
credits: https://www.hoka.com/en/us/
Key Features
Pros
Cons
Leather uppers for durability and waterproofing Achilles heel comfort build for added comfort during long hikes EVA midsoles made mostly of sugarcane
Incorporates eco-friendly materials without compromising on performance. Versatile design suitable for all terrains and seasons. Waterproof construction ensures feet stay dry in wet conditions. Achilles heel comfort build enhances comfort during extended wear.
Some users may prefer a higher ankle for added support on rough terrain. Requires proper care and maintenance to preserve the leather and eco-friendly materials.
The Tracker II FG Women’s by VivoBarefoot redefines hiking footwear with its barefoot design, offering a lightweight, flexible, yet durable option for outdoor enthusiasts.
Engineered to provide a natural and responsive hiking experience, these boots are suitable for long hikes across various terrains. The firm outsole offers reliable traction, while the thermal insole regulates heat, ensuring comfort in changing weather conditions.
With a waterproof construction and Pro5 puncture-resistant finish, these boots provide protection and durability on rugged trails.
On top of that, the use of sustainable materials, including organic cotton, wild hide, and recycled PET, highlights VivoBarefoot’s commitment to environmental responsibility.
credits: https://www.vivobarefoot.com/ca
Key Features
Pros
Cons
Barefoot design for a lightweight and flexible hiking experience Thermal insole regulates heat for comfort in cold weather Pro5 puncture-resistant finish and protective underfoot
Lightweight and flexible construction ideal for long hikes. Thermal insole regulates heat for comfort in changing weather conditions. Waterproof construction and puncture-resistant finish offer durability and protection. The barefoot design allows for a better connection with nature.
May require an adjustment period for users accustomed to more structured footwear. Higher price point compared to some traditional hiking boots. May not provide as much insulation for colder climates compared to thicker hiking boots.
The Allegra Weekend Hiking Boot by Thesus is a testament to sustainable and ethical craftsmanship, offering a versatile option for eco-conscious buyers seeking the best sustainable hiking boots.
With its minimalist yet timeless design, this boot seamlessly transitions from city streets to rugged terrains with ease.
Made from 95% recycled and organic materials, including repurposed marine plastic for the nylon upper and recycled rubber for the lug sole, the Allegra embodies the brand’s commitment to environmental stewardship.
Additionally, Thesus offers full transparency regarding its manufacturing materials and supply chain, providing buyers with peace of mind.
credits: https://thesusoutdoors.com
Key Features
Pros
Cons
Vegan glue used to bind the upper and soles Removable gel insole for customizable support 2-inch heel offers solid traction and stability
Versatile design suitable for city streets, parks, and rough terrains. Removable gel insole allows for customizable comfort. Timeless design ensures longevity and versatility.
May not provide enough ankle support for some users on rugged terrain. May not offer as much insulation for colder climates compared to thicker hiking boots.
The Final Verdict
If you’re looking for a pair of durable hiking boots to wear all year long and on all terrains, the Tracker Forest ESC Men’s is your go-to. It’s one of the most durable boots on the market, and it’s made to endure rough terrains and harsh conditions to no end.
If you mostly go on short hiking trips and don’t expose your feet to uneven surfaces, it’d be wise to consider the Mason High boots from Forsake.
Their price point gives them leverage over higher-priced options with similar specs. Besides, with their modern, non-rugged design, you can wear them both on the trails and on city streets.
Nonetheless, all boots on the list above are highly durable and comfortable. Choose your favorite pair according to your budget and usage when looking for the best sustainable hiking boots.
Allow me to introduce myself, Savannah Bailey, a pivotal content writer at EthicalSustainableClothing.com. My initial fascination with fashion's creative realm soon gave way to mounting concerns about its environmental and ethical implications, propelling me toward a fulfilling career in sustainable fashion. Armed with a degree in fashion design, I now utilize my words to educate and inspire, with the goal of sparking transformative change.
My collaborations with ethical fashion brands, coupled with an unwavering love for the great outdoors, have deepened my commitment to sustainability. I employ my exceptional writing skills as a driving force behind a broader movement towards intentional fashion choices, striving to bridge the gap between style and ethics.
Within my role at EthicalSustainableClothing.com, my fervor for sustainable fashion and my advocacy seamlessly blend, propelling our mission forward. I invite you to join me in embracing a more conscious and stylish world, where each decision contributes to a brighter future.
