7 Best Sustainable Sneakers, 100+ Shoes Tested in 2023
Get your ideal fit of the best eco-friendly, sustainable sneakers that won't cost the earth. Thanks to growing numbers of companies that are becoming more environmentally conscious, we don’t need to skimp on style when buying a pair of eco-friendly kicks from Nike, Adidas, or Puma.
If you’re also taking a stance (like we all do at RunRepeat) against wasteful practices in the fashion industry, then start with this amazing collection of sustainable sneakers available in the market. If you’re fan of the Three Stripes label, they comprise the majority of models on this list. Taking the second spot are the climate-friendly pieces from Nike.
We’ve considered 100+ of the best sustainable sneakers out there. Each pair in the selection are tested and proven to put sustainability in your every step. Take a closer look at our top picks.
Table of contents How we test sneakersBest overallBest NikeBest AdidasBest retroBest PUMABest valueMost popularComparison
Overview
How we test sneakers
With over a hundred of pairs in the database, we put in the hours of research and testing to identify the finest models for this guide. Our team of lab specialists measures, weighs, and scrutinizes every feature of the shoes from various brands. We take the footwear to long walks around the city streets or the local park.
Here are the specifics involve:
- Invest our own funds to test all the pairs of sustainable kicks in the catalog. This is to keep the reviews 100% honest and objective.
- Lace up the shoes and test their real-life performance by engaging in a variety of activities and the usual grind at the office.
- After days of wear and tear exposure, we assess the fit, weight, cushioning, toe box, arch support, breathability, traction, waterproof feature, durability, and many others.
- Gather more data from forums, best-selling lists, and hundreds of other customer reviews.
To end this guide, we finalize the best-rated rankings and assign each pair of sustainable sneakers its overall score. See the respective ratings of the models highlighted on the CoreScore.
Best sustainable sneakers overall
CoreScore
- Top 10% in sneakers
- Top 21% in Adidas sneakers
- Top 1% most popular sneakers
Pros
- Classic silhouette
- Numerous colorways and collaborations
- Easy to style
- Durable
- Weatherproof
Cons
- Runs large
- Lack of support
- Takes some time to wear in
Verdict
The Adidas Stan Smith is a legendary sneaker with a claim to fame as the original white tennis shoe for the masses. Culture has respected that for the last 50 years the Stan Smith is still as relevant today as it was when the man was winning trophies. It's fair to say that with its robust design and sleek looks, it's probably going to last another 50.
Best Nike sustainable sneakers
CoreScore
- Top 4% in sneakers
- Top 3% in Nike sneakers
- Top 19% most popular sneakers
Pros
- Incredibly comfy
- Soft interior
- Partly sustainable
- Stylish
- Affordable
- Enough wiggle room
- Easy to clean
Cons
- Squeaky sole
- Requires some break-in
- Lacks arch support
Verdict
Nike Air Force 1 07 Next Nature may appear rigid and heavy, but it’s way more gentle and accommodating than the typical Air Force 1s. The tongue, heel, and sole are liberally padded, creating a happy environment for the feet. It isn’t only comfy and chic for everyday use but eco-friendly too, with the bottom layer spun from repurposed waste.
Best Adidas sustainable sneakers
Adidas Adi2000
Amazon
Free shipping
$60
Adidas
Free shipping and returns
$66
Footshop
$85
ASOS
Free shipping & returns
$100
CoreScore
- Top 1% in sneakers
- Top 2% in Adidas sneakers
- Top 10% most popular sneakers
Pros
- Retro aesthetics
- Great for skateboarding
- Vibrant colorways
- Perfect everyday sneaker
- Jewel for mix and match
- Spongy comfort all day long
- Light even if chunky
- Repeat buyer magnet
Cons
- Not for narrow feet
- Easily gets dirty
- Non-removable insoles
Verdict
Although the Adidas Adi2000 is perfect for skateboarding, casual wearers also admire these retro low-top sneakers as their everyday go-to pair. Sneakerheads find it hard not to try this jewel because of its eye-catching beauty, well-cushioned comfort, chunkiness without being heavy, and functionality. It's a welcome addition to the streetwear scene.
Best retro sustainable sneakers
Adidas Forum Mid Parley
Amazon
Free shipping
$45
Adidas
Free shipping and returns
$45
ASOS
Free shipping & returns
$53
Footshop
$134
CoreScore
- Top 2% in sneakers
- Top 4% in Adidas sneakers
Pros
- Posh aesthetics
- Exudes a timeless vibe
- Comfortable for hours
- Remarkable fit
- Excellent support
- Great top-to-bottom finish
- Unique removable straps
Cons
- Less colorful in real life
- Could be more flexible
Verdict
The expression "leave the past behind" is something that might not apply to the '80s throwback Forum Mid Parley. Giving you retro feels in a modernized shell, this basketball-inspired kick from Adidas proves to be such a comfy and classy icon regardless of the years gone by. And since it's a Parley collab, the end result is a greener product that definitely rocks!
Best PUMA sustainable sneakers
CoreScore
Pros
- Premium material
- Stylishly cool
- Easy to wear
- Comfortable
- Affordable
- Eco-friendly
- High quality
- Height booster
Cons
- With break-in period
- Tad heavy
Verdict
Ladies, do yourselves a favor by sliding the PUMA Mayze Chelsea into your feet. Like its low-top version, this fashionable sneakerboot doesn't just quickly elevate your style but it also cozily hugs your feet as you walk along the urban pavements. The cherry on top of all this? It is made with recycled materials as Puma's contribution to saving our planet.
Best value
Adidas Tyshawn Low
Amazon
Free shipping
$51
Stadium Goods
$60
Adidas
Free shipping and returns
$85
Zappos
CoreScore
- Top 2% in sneakers
- Top 3% in Adidas sneakers
- Top 14% most popular sneakers
Pros
- Long-lasting
- Extremely comfortable
- Eco-friendly
- High-impact support
- Stylish flair
- Versatile
- Affordable
Cons
- Poor board feel
Verdict
Built to meet your skateboarding needs, the Adidas Tyshawn Low is a must in every skaters' arsenal. With its amazing amount of comfort and foot support, this will allow you to take heaps of foot action like high-impact jumps on and off the boards. However, if your riding preference is always closer to the ground, you better check the Adidas Seeley that offers a better board feel.
Most popular sustainable sneakers
CoreScore
- Top 2% most popular sneakers
Pros
- Extremely cozy
- Added height
- Trendy
- Disco hippie aesthetic
- Warm for the winter
- Can be worn all-day
- Rocks casual wear
- Great value for money
Cons
- Requires break-in
- Runs narrow
- Stiff upper dents on top of the foot
Verdict
An exaggerated take on the Tasman Slipper, this slip-on sneaker from UGG is an explosive mix of the classic clog silhouette and disco-style stacked soles. The upper is suede, while the lining and insoles are made with recycled and upcycled materials for a slipper-like feel and enhanced comfort, especially during the cold months.
