Vegan Boots We’re Obsessed With
by the W&S Sustainability, Nature and Climate Editorial Team
@callitspring via Instagram.
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Repeat after us: buying a new pair of vegan boots is okay. Sometimes, we buy things. It’s not always the end of the world to need new stuff. According to our analytics, most people reading this article are young women between the ages of 25 and 35.
This fact means a large portion of that group is new(ish) to the adult world and is doing the hard work of building that “big girl” wardrobe that’s gonna carry you into those later years of icon status. Girlies getting rid of those crappy fast fashion favs from their late teens and early 20s for better quality (and better made) items more rooted in our matured understanding of personal style and social responsibility.
That’s where this post comes in! If you’re ready to invest in a new pair of shoes that are made conscious of animal welfare, we’ve curated a list of our favorite brands offering vegan boots. So whether you’re on a budget or trying to make a statement, we’ve got you covered.
Stay tuned for this list and a full rundown of what actually makes boots vegan. Share, subscribe, and be sure to scroll to the end for more great posts just like this one!
What Exactly are Vegan Boots?
Vegan boots are designed, manufactured, and distributed without using animal products. Often, people confuse vegan boots with cruelty free-boots. The difference is that the vegan boots label, or for any items, means the final item does not contain any animal-derived products. In contrast, the cruelty-free label means the product was created without any testing on animals.
While vegan products and cruelty-free labels are interrelated, they’re not interchangeable. Many boots, therefore, can be labeled cruelty-free but still contain animal-derived materials (e.g., leather and silk). It’s essential to know the nuances between them so that you’re able to make the most conscious decision as a consumer.
Notably, vegan boots, like all vegan clothing products, are not regulated by the US government. Instead, brands are able to self-describe whether or not their products are vegan. In fact, there is no legal standard for what makes something vegan or cruelty-free within the United States.
But don’t get too discouraged. Luckily, there are a few reputable organizations that have stepped in to fill in this gap. These organizations certify a standard for what makes something vegan:
Vegan Action: certifies that products don’t contain animal-derived products and were not tested on animals.
The Vegan Society: certifies that products have no animal-derived ingredients, were not tested on animals, and have no GMOs
Vegan Action Trademark Logo
Vegan Society Trademark Logo
When you’re in the market for vegan boots, look for these labels to ensure your product is indeed what you’re looking for.
*NOTE: We have chosen to leave PETA out of this list, although it is another organization that certifies vegan products in the US. However, due to their repeated (in our opinion) racist campaigns and failure to adopt a practical, intersectional approach to their politics, we don’t think it’s appropriate to promote their logo on our website. Please refer to the following articles/papers written by incredible BIPOC women who go into more detail about these issues: Article 1 | Article 2 | Article 3 | Article 4
Vegan Boots for Everywoman
We’ve put together a curated list of our absolute best vegan boot options, covering a range of budgets, styles, and occasions:
1. Vegan Boots: Classic and Ready for the Everyday
Riding Boots, IMMACULATE Vegan
It doesn’t get more classic than a riding boot. Honestly, what’s not to love? They’re warm, go with everything, and look good with various outfits and occasions. Snag this pair from IMMACULATE Vegan.
These boots have:
An upper with soft patent Italian vegan leather
Cushioning non-crush down insoles made with recycled rubber
Durable, rubber outsoles
What’s more, they’re certified carbon-neutral! The package is delivered to you through a plastic-free carbon-neutral supply chain in paper and cardboard packaging. In addition, all the materials in the deliveries are environmentally friendly, sustainable, and can be recycled.
Black Ankle Boots, Taylor and Thomas
Ankle boots are to fall and winter what sandals are to spring and summer: staples. They’re fundamental to organizing your cold-weather wardrobe, and for good reason. So, check out these beauties from Taylor and Thomas.
The DEBBIE boot was designed in LA and is a sexy but wearable pointed-toe boot. Like all their designs, these boots are rooted in the “common ground of global consciousness and personal styling. So if and when you’re in the market for some new boots, grab yourself a pair ASAP.
2. Budget Friendly Vegan Boots: Look Great for Less
Brown Boots, Call it Spring
Let's get real here; we shouldn't have to go broke to dress ethically. Women already do the most for the planet and shouldn't also be forced to spend the most on top of it all.
The Wendii high heel over-the-knee platform boots from Call it Spring give baddie energy in all the right ways. These boots elevate any fit and feature a major platform heel and retro square toe.
White Western Boots, Call it Spring
It’s undoubtedly true that Western Boots have been a significant trend for the past few years. However, this trend has withstood the test of time and is making its rounds in women’s circles today still.
We love these budget-friendly western boots from Call it Spring. So live out your southern belle dreams with the Joelen tall western boots. Featuring the classic pointy toe and block heel, you’re ready for the showdown.
3. Luxury Vegan Boots: Eco-Friendly, High End Buys
Chunky Ankle Boots, Stella McCartney
We’ve said it before, and we’ll say it again: luxury does not necessarily have to be unaligned with caring for the planet. Sometimes, we want to feel fancy but aren’t willing to compromise our values in order to do so.
That’s why we’re obsessed with these Stella McCartney Skyla Stretch Alter Mat Chunky Ankle Boots. Immediately recognizable for its chunky platform sole and block heel, this boot is revisited as a loafer and stretch ankle in a shiny vegan alternative to animal leather for Autumn 2022, featuring an iconic Falabella chunky chain detail over the top of the foot
Black Flat Boots , Jimmy Choo
For the luxury-obsessed girlies looking for comfy, walkable vegan boots, we've got you covered with these black flat boots from Jimmy Choo.
They’re crafted from soft black vachetta leather and arrive with a cozy natural shearling lining. Also, they feature a smooth rounded toe and sit on a chunky mountain sole. A winter wardrobe must-have!
The Bottom Line on Vegan Boots
Vegan boots SLAP. If you’re in the market for some new boots, we encourage you to check out the brands above!
