Jane here with an in-depth look at some fabulous ethical shoes brands that are solid alternatives to our fave Veja sneakers.
As someone who lives in her canvas Veja low tops, I totally get why you love them too.
The minimalist white sneakers go with everything in my closet and make me feel good knowing they’re sustainably made.
But a gal needs options! So I did a deep dive online to uncover the best eco-conscious brands offering similar styles to Veja.
From on-trend streetwear sneakers to handcrafted leather boots, these labels offer the same ethical production and cool-factor as Veja.
Many are even more budget-friendly!
I’ll share my personal experiences trying some of these brands and give specific product recommendations so you can start revamping your shoe rotation.
Get excited – your new favorite pair is waiting for you here:
Top 10+ Shoe Brands as Solid Veja Alternatives
Rank | Why | |
---|---|---|
Cariuma | 9.5 | Affordable, stylish canvas sneakers in fun colors. Made from natural, recycled materials. |
Nothing New | 9.2 | Cool minimalist sneakers by Stella McCartney. Made from recycled materials. |
Indosole | 8.9 | Laidback sneakers & sandals with recycled rubber soles. West Coast casual vibes. |
Matt & Nat | 9.1 | Vegan leather flats, loafers & more. Stylish and animal-friendly. |
Nisolo | 8.7 | Ethically handmade leather boots and shoes. Not vegan but sustainable practices. |
Etiko | 9.0 | Trendy eco-friendly sneakers made from recycled materials. |
Noah | 8.9 | Minimalist sneakers handmade in Italy from recycled/organic materials. |
Tropicfeel | 9.1 | Innovative travel sneakers made from recycled plastic and natural materials. |
Allbirds | 9.3 | Iconic wool and tree fiber sneakers. Natural moisture-wicking materials. |
Taos | 8.6 | New Mexican artisanal leather boots. Not vegan but some eco practices. |
Vivobarefoot | 8.8 | Barefoot-style shoes promoting natural foot motion. Made from recycled PET. |
Keen | 9.0 | Sustainable casual sneakers good for rambling. Recycled/natural materials. |
Thousand Fell | 9.1 | Minimal white sneakers comparable to Veja. Made from recycled materials. |
Makahu | 8.9 | New Zealand artisanal leather boots. Not vegan but eco tanning practices. |
Native Shoes | 9.2 | Vegan sneakers and shoes from recycled materials. West Coast casual vibes. |
Ahimsa | 9.0 | Stylish vegan leather shoes handcrafted in Brazil. Renewable materials. |
Baabuk | 8.7 | Odor-resistant wool sneakers in neutral tones. Sustainable natural materials. |
Cariuma
This Brazilian brand has mastered the minimalist sneaker game.
They use premium natural materials like bamboo knit and recycled plastic to create super comfortable low-tops and high-tops.
Cariuma’s canvas sneakers come in fun colors like rose, olive green, and gray that always grab my attention.
I recently got my hands on a pair of their OCA Low sneakers in blush pink – talk about a showstopper! The neutral color paired perfectly with the jeans and tees in my spring wardrobe.
And Cariuma’s signature memory foam insole provided all-day cushioning as I pounded the city pavement.
At just $79 a pair, these affordable sneakers let me add multiple stylish options to my closet without breaking the bank. If you’re looking for Veja vibes at an even better price point, Cariuma is your brand!
Nothing New
Sustainable fashion advocate Stella McCartney launched this brand, so you know their shoes are consciously made with cool streetwear edge.
Nothing New’s high-top and low-top lace ups feature canvas or microfiber uppers in versatile colorways like white, black, and sand.
I’m currently crushing on their white Frank Low Tops – with their exposed foam tongue and minimalist shape, they remind me so much of my fave Vejas! But the subtle Nothing New logo elevates them just enough.
Plus, knowing they’re crafted from recycled polyester and bio-based materials makes me feel good rocking them daily. The $140 price tag aligns closely with Veja’s, making them a great ethical alternative.
Indosole
Looking for laidback sneakers and sandals with a chill SoCal vibe? Indosole is your hookup. Handcrafted in Bali, their shoes use recycled materials like rubber and tires for the soles.
I’m obsessed with their Hemp Sneaker Collection – the natural hemp fabric uppers come in fun patterns like Lava Camo and Bali Batik. It’s taking all my willpower not to add the colorful Paisley Sneaks to my cart right now! Beyond sneakers, Indosole also offers stylish slides and sandals.
Their Triple Thong Sandals are made from hemp and recycled tires, proving eco-friendly can be fashion-forward. If you want shoes that feel good physically and ethically, Indosole is an awesome choice.
Matt & Nat
Canadian brand Matt & Nat has mastered contemporary luxury – without using any leather! Their collection of flats, loafers, and sandals are all vegan, crafted from recycled materials like plastic bottles and nylon fabrics.
As someone who loves a good mary jane flat, Matt & Nat’s Adira style in black is my new go-to. The woven upper elevates the classic silhouette, adding visual interest to any outfit. And the modest $115 price tag makes them super attainable.
Beyond flats, Matt & Nat’s boots and pumps take vegan footwear to chic new heights. If you want cruelty-free shoes with timeless style, this brand delivers.
Nisolo
For ethically handmade leather boots and oxfords with a modern twist, Nisolo has you covered. Crafted by artisans in Peru and Mexico under fair labor conditions, their shoes embody conscious luxury.
The Santiago Chukka boot in bran instantly grabbed my eye – the hand-finished Italian leather upper paired with the crepe sole oozes rugged refinement. While not vegan, Nisolo prioritizes sustainability through eco-tanning processes and planting a tree for every order.
So you can feel good breaking these beauties in! With shoes ranging from $118 for sandals to $218 for boots, the prices reflect the premium quality and craftsmanship. An excellent splurge for timeless leather shoes kind to humans and the planet.
Etiko
Make a difference with every step in sneakers from Etiko. This Australian brand keeps it totally animal and cruelty-free by using recycled materials like plastic bottles, rubber, and organic cotton.
Available in both high-top and low-top silhouettes, their casual sneakers come in fun color-pops like peach, sea green, and lilac. I’m currently loving their Fairtrainers in blush with the rose gold foil logo. The metallic detail and neutral colorway pairs perfectly with dresses and jeans alike.
Beyond solid colors, Etiko also offers cool printed sneakers like their jungle and leopard print high tops. Prices range from $65 – $95, making these feel-good sneaks super affordable!
Noah
If you like Veja for their minimalist spin on sneakers, artisanal brand Noah is a pricier but worthy alternative. Handcrafted in Italy using premium recycled and organic cotton, their shoes embody ethical luxury.
Their Wanderer Sneaker in white features a perforated toe box and grippy tread – perfect for city exploring or lounging dockside.
While prices hover around $198, you certainly get what you pay for through Noah’s quality materials and production methods. An investment for your closet and the planet that never goes out of style.
Tropicfeel
This innovative Spain-based brand engineers multipurpose sneakers designed for tropical adventures – or just brightening up your everyday.
Using materials like recycled plastic bottles, algae foam, and coconut husks, Tropicfeel keeps sustainability top of mind. The Canyon Sneaker grabbed my attention for its sleek monochrome design and airy mesh upper, made from recycled ocean plastics.
Designed to be worn wet or dry, they’re perfect for water activities or hitting the pavement. I’d style them with everything from sundresses to swimsuits for ultimate versatility. Plus Tropicfeel plants a tree for every pair sold! With prices starting at $78, these functional and stylish sneakers are a steal.
Allbirds
By now you’ve likely heard about Allbirds and their super sustainable kicks made from natural materials. Their claim to fame is comfy wool runners spun from merino and eucalyptus fibers.
I’ve been wearing my grey Wool Runners all winter – they’ve been perfect for rainy NYC days! The moisture-wicking wool upper kept my feet dry and cozy.
For a warmer weather option, check out Allbirds breezy Tree Flyers made from eucalyptus. While the flatter sole is better for walking than hardcore athletics, they work great for everyday wear.
Prices range from $100 – $125, reflecting the premium natural materials and quality construction. An eco-friendly choice for feel-good style!
Taos
For artisanal leather boots and shoes with rich Southwestern heritage, Taos is a standout. Handcrafting quality footwear in New Mexico since 1969, they know a thing or two about timeless style and comfort.
While not vegan, Taos incorporates eco-conscious practices like using solar energy and recycled rubber soles. I’m eyeing their Star Ankle Boot – the distressed leather upper combined with embroidered stars exudes rustic chic.
Plus the slight wedge heel provides just enough lift for all-day wear. With prices starting around $150, investing in Taos quality craftsmanship lets you feel good from head to toe.
Vivobarefoot
Vivobarefoot makes ethically constructed barefoot-style shoes designed to let your feet move naturally. Using recycled PET plastic, they create flexible sneakers that feel like a second skin for your feet.
Their Primus Lite III model comes in neutral colors like white, tan, and black – perfect versatile hues that complement any outfit.
While the ultra-minimalist design echoes a foot shape silhouette, the upgraded model features a reinforced stitchless upper for increased durability. Priced around $150, they’re an investment in foot health and sustainability. Namaste to that!
Keen
Known for sturdy hiking boots and sandals built for adventure, Keen also offers a selection of casual sustainable sneakers.
Take their Newport H2 model – it has a classic lace-up profile but uses recycled polyester, responsibly sourced leather, and plant-based materials. I’d wear them everywhere from camping trips to coffee runs. And with Keen’s signature toe bumper, your feet are protected from any obstacles in your path.
For days filled with casual rambling, Keen delivers dependable comfort and responsible construction. Prices start at $100, reflecting Keen’s commitment to quality and sustainability.
Nothing New
Sustainable fashion advocate Stella McCartney launched this brand, so you know their shoes are consciously made with cool streetwear edge.
Nothing New’s high-top and low-top lace ups feature canvas or microfiber uppers in versatile colorways like white, black, and sand.
I’m currently crushing on their white Frank Low Tops – with their exposed foam tongue and minimalist shape, they remind me so much of my fave Vejas! But the subtle Nothing New logo elevates them just enough.
Plus, knowing they’re crafted from recycled polyester and bio-based materials makes me feel good rocking them daily. The $140 price tag aligns closely with Veja’s, making them a great ethical alternative.
Sperry
The iconic preppy Sperry boat shoe now comes in vegan versions for sustainably-minded fans! Using recycled and plant-based materials like jute, hemp, and coconut husk, Sperry reimagined their classic silhouettes cruelty-free.
I’m loving the plant-based Cloud CVO – the dotted canvas exterior and natural jute sole scream laidback nautical style. Slip them on with jeans or dresses for that effortless prep vibe Sperry is known for. And at around $75 a pair depending on the style, they won’t break the bank either.
Sanuk
Sanuk brings its SoCal-inspired style to the world of vegan sneakers. Often thought of for their yoga mat sandals, they also craft casual low-tops and slip-ons made from organic and recycled materials.
I’m digging their chambray yoga sling – it has that one-of-a-kind Sanuk vibe but in a more polished silhouette. Made from organic hemp and cotton, they’re perfect for wearing anywhere from yoga class to brunch.
And with prices ranging from $40 – $65, you can collect multiple colors without spending a ton. Sanuk proves sustainability can still be laidback and fun!
Toms
As one of the first brands spotlighting ethical production, Toms had to make the list. While their aesthetic skews casual preppy, Toms makes classic slip-ons and flats using sustainable materials like cotton, hemp, and recycled polyester.
The Alpargata Suede in blush pink has caught my eye – the soft suede upper and subtle sheen gives them a modern luxe vibe. And Toms’ signature elastic gore ensures they stay securely on your foot while adding visual interest.
Toms’ “One for One” program is the cherry on top, with the brand donating shoes, sight services, and safe water for those in need with every purchase. Prices range from $55 – $100 for most styles, making them an affordable feel-good option.
Thousand Fell
If you like Veja for their minimalist white sneaker aesthetic, New York-based Thousand Fell is a fabulous option. Using eco-friendly materials like recycled water bottles and algae foam, their shoes are completely carbon neutral.
Their signature white lace-up sneaker features a sleek profile with subtle branding – an ideal versatile pair made for daily wear. I’ve been wearing my Thousand Fells constantly since getting them last month! The quilted upper provides a bit more texture than my usual Vejas. And they’ve proven super comfortable pounding the city streets thanks to the algae foam insole.
Thousand Fell also offers of-the-moment colorways like lilac and pale blue, so you can incorporate more hues into your wardrobe. At $120 a pair, they’re very comparable price-wise to brands like Veja and deliver the same sustainable construction.
Makahu
Hand-stitched in New Zealand from ethically sourced leather, Makahu blends Maori heritage with modern design.
Although not vegan, they focus on environmentally friendly practices like using metal-free tanning processes. I’m loving their Wahine Shootie – the distressed leather upper combined with whipstitch details channels rugged Pacific Northwest vibes.
While made for outdoor adventures, I’d wear them strolling city streets too! The $198 price reflects the premium materials and artisanal craftsmanship. For those willing to invest, Makahu boots and shoes deliver timeless quality and care for the Earth with every step. An excellent splurge!
Native Shoes
Looking for vegan shoes with a laidback West Coast vibe? Check out Native Shoes. Using recyclable materials like rubber, EVA foam, and plant-based polymers, Native keeps their production eco-friendly.
Their Jefferson Knit style offers the cozy appeal of a retro sneaker in innovative animal-free construction.
The chunky sole and knit collar feels stylish yet comfort-focused – perfect for all-day wear! Native Shoes range from $40 – $100, making them budget-friendly for such trendy designs. And they donate shoes to those in need with every purchase. So you can feel good rocking Native Shoes’ playful kicks!
Ahimsa
Handcrafted by artisans in Brazil, Ahimsa creates stylish vegan footwear from renewable plant-based materials.
Their sleek flats and loafers combine traditional Brazilian techniques with contemporary eco-conscious design. The Sylvana loafer in blush caught my eye – the crisscross stitching adds visual interest, while the microfiber upper keeps the style feminine and polished.
Ahimsa’s prices range from $128 – $168, reflecting their ethical production methods. For luxurious vegan shoes kind to the planet and animals, Ahimsa is a wonderful option. You’ll feel oh-so-chic and satisfied with these beauties in your closet!
Baabuk
This innovative Swiss brand designs odour-resistant wool sneakers in muted natural tones. Crafting their shoes ethically from merino wool, recycled bottles, and natural rubber, Baabuk offers laidback comfort and sustainability.
Their Wool Runner is a more casual take on Allbirds’ wool sneaker – I’d wear it for errands, travel, and weekends alike.
The felted wool upper comes in minimalist neutrals that pair perfectly with any outfit. At around $120 a pair, the price aligns with other premium eco brands like Allbirds and Veja. For breathable, moisture-wicking sneakers kind to your wallet and the environment, Baabuk delivers.