A buying guide for the best vegan hiking shoes for men & women
Implementing ethical standards, and more precisely conserving the environment, is becoming more and more a key element when producing or buying outdoor gear.
The focus of customers has also shifted from harsh leather products to vegan ones.
If you are an outdoor lover and looking for vegan hiking shoes, this guide will introduce you to the best vegan hiking boots… all of them 100% free of any animal products!
Not only will these boots last for a lifetime but they will also make sure that you get the same level of comfort every time you use them.
Such products not only keep the environment preserved but in many cases also clean it by using recycled material.
That’s why it’s important to always ensure you are buying from sustainable shoe brands.
The good news is that vegan shoe companies tend to be more sustainable than other companies.
So you can pair them with some sustainable activewear or a vegan backpack and hike, exercise, or lounge in comfort without hurting the environment.
Are you wondering about the best vegan hiking boot brands?
This article will provide you informative insights that will help you to find the best vegan hiking boots for men and women.
Including the best vegan waterproof hiking boots and options for faux leather hiking boots!
You, dear reader, support this blog. When you purchase through a link, I may earn a small commission. As an Amazon Affiliate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
Table of Contents
Overview: Best Vegan Hiking Boots for Women
| Category | Name | Image | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Best Hiking Shoe | Lowa Ferrox Pro GTX |   | Check here |
| Best Mid-Shoe | Merrell MQM Flex 2 Mid Gore |   | Check here |
| Best Minimalist Shoe | ESC TEMPEST WOMEN'S |   | Check here |
| Best Shoe for long hikes | La Sportiva Trango TRK GTX Hiking Boots |   | Check here |
Overview: Best Vegan Hiking Boots for Men
| Category | Name | Image | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Best Hiking Shoe | Arc’teryx Konseal FL GTX Approach |   | Check here |
| Best Below 150$ | Astral TR1 Merge Boots |   | Check here |
| Best Minimalist Hiking Shoe | ESC TEMPEST MENS |   | Check here |
| Best Boots for Long Hikes | La Sportiva Stream GTX Hiking Boots |   | Check here |
Best Vegan Hiking Boots & Shoes for Women
Arc’teryx Bora Mid GTX
Ethical Aspect: Gore-Tex® lined inner sole and bootie
Price range: $$
PROS:
- Traction
- Stability
- Great support
CONS:
- A bit heavy
The Arc’teryx Bora Mid GTX has a superior performance in all environments, wet or dry.
It’s one of the best in Arc’teryx’s vegan walking shoes women’s range.
The stability that it provides has been tested by independent reviewers and is found to be perfect!
The inner bootie can also be removed and this makes this boot one of the best vegan walking shoes available for customization.
These warm vegan boots never let cold air reach your feet and you never feel your feet damped either.
Check rates & reviews on:
REI.com – Amazon
LOWA – Ferrox Pro GTX Low
Ethical Aspect: Double Injection DynaPU and LOWA vegan rubber
Price range: $$
PROS:
- Lightweight materials that provide good stability
- Breathable which means that your feet never get clammy
CONS:
- A flat lower sole that may become hard over time
The optimal stability makes the LOWA – Ferrox Pro GTX Low one of the best vegan hiking boots for light treks.
It’s a great fit for women that love hiking and trekking. It’s ideal for outdoor activities and therefore, some of the best shoes that are on the market!
Among vegan hiking boots, this is a great companion for women as it provides protection to feet and keeps the ankles stable.
So don’t forget to load up on the best water bottles for hikers, because these boots will keep you upright no matter how heavy your bag gets!
Check rates & reviews on:
REI.com – AlpineTrek (UK)
ARC’TERYX Konseal FL GTX
Ethical Aspect: Vibram mega grip rubber, thermoplastic polyurethane, and EVA, all of them environmentally friendly
Price range: $$
PROS:
- 3D-molded insoles which provide a great fit for any feet
- Ideal in wet weather as they are covered by Gore-Tex® membranes
CONS:
- The tongue could be a bit wider
The ARC’TERYX Konseal FL GTX vegan hiking shoes are the best for variable terrain as they support the ankles.
The shoes are lightweight kudos to the developers that have kept the minimalist design.
With the best material usage and long-lasting durability, this shoe will give you a lifetime experience!
Check rates & reviews on:
REI.com – AlpineTrek (UK)
LA SPORTIVA Trango TRK Evo GTX
Ethical Aspect: Gore-Tex® breathable membrane, polyester mesh, thermoplastic urethane, and Vibram mulaz rubber
Price range: $$$
PROS:
- Extremely lightweight
- Durable
- 3 D flex supports the ankle and its mobility
CONS:
- The rubber under the toe and heel that may wear out over time
Though a bit pricier, the LA SPORTIVA Trango TRK Evo GTX gets you the comfort that is beyond words!
The best part about these vegan outdoor boots is that their soles can be renewed which means that you never have to look for another pair!
La Sportiva is a popular brand among the alpinists and they gave this product a good rating because of its viability on rough terrain.
These women’s vegan hiking boots are considered among the best on the market!
Check rates & reviews on:
REI.com – AlpineTrek (UK)
MERRELL MQM Flex 2 Mid GTX
Ethical Aspect: EVA, Quantum gripped rubber, and Gore-Tex® membrane keeps the rain out of these women’s vegan hiking boots
Price range: $$
PROS:
- Great traction on uneven terrain thanks to the quantum gripped rubber
- Air cushions beneath the sole that provide stability and do not let shocks reach your body
CONS:
- The weight
This is one of the most popular in the Merrell vegan hiking boots women’s range, and it’s easy to see why.
The mesh-based upper and lower soles keep your feet dry in a wet environment while the shoes still being breathable.
The insoles can be removed to increase the flexibility of the product.
It’s a product for rocky terrain and trekking. The MERRELL MQM Flex 2 Mid GTX has been designed to keep the debris out all the time.
Additionally, Merrell is known for being one of the best vegan shoe brands.
Their vegan walking boots women’s range is some of the best available in the world!
Check rates & reviews on:
REI.com – AlpineTrek (UK)
VIVOBAREFOOT MAGNA TRAIL II FG
Ethical Aspect: Partially made from recycled materials.
Price range: $$
PROS:
- Quick draining mesh
- Best Swim Run shoe
- Great minimal design
- Lightweight & durable
- Super sticky rubber outsole
CONS:
- Sole protection may wear out
The fabulous MAGNA TRAIL II FG is 100% vegan as waste plastic has been used in the production process.
Recycled plastic PET has been used in the ankle sock construction in order to keep your feet comfortable between land and sea.
The traction and durability of the Vivobarefoot Magna Trail have been added with the help of high abrasion outsole.
The best part of this pair is that it comes with 100 days of guarantee! If you change your mind within the timeframe, you’ll get a 100% refund!
Check rates & reviews on:
VivoBarefoot
Astral TR1 Junction Minimalist
Ethical Aspect: Made of recycled polyester and plastic waste
Price range: $$$
PROS:
- Quick dry which makes them ideal for all-weather and trails
- The 5 mm lugs integrated make it ideal for any terrain and add to the comfort
CONS:
- Ideal for shorter hikes
The Astral TR1 Junction Minimalist is perfect for hikes with rivers or waterfalls since it’s a hiking and water shoe all in one!
That means these amazing vegan women’s hiking boots are ideal in any terrain.
The polygene that is used drains the water quickly, resulting in zero smell, and vent holes on the front and back keep the feet cool.
The footbed has been leveled so that stability is provided.
Because the boots are lightweight, they never hamper your performance while hiking.
Check rates & reviews on:
Backcountry – Amazon (UK)
Lowa Innox Pro GTX Mid Hiking Boots
Ethical Aspect: The LOWA DynaPU® midsole can be sent back to be re-soled to ensure a longer life for these vegetarian hiking boots.
Price range: $$$
PROS:
- Adjustable straps give extra support or space as needed
- Waterproof
CONS:
- Midsole cushioning is a bit thin, might not be sufficient for everyone
It’s easy to see why the Lowa Innox Pro GTX Mid Hiking Boots are some of the most popular vegan women’s hiking boots on the market.
They are some of the most comfortable and durable vegan hiking boots.
The midsole gives a lot of cushion and ankle support, so if you have a tendency to roll your foot, the LOWA Innox Pro GTX might be a great fit for you.
Lowa also tends to run a bit wider, so if you have wider feet, these are a great comfortable option.
These awesome vegan waterproof hiking shoes are perfect for long hikes as they are lightweight and provide a lot of support and cushioning.
The footbeds are extra wide to allow for swelling during long walks to ensure the best hiking experience.
Check rates & reviews on:
REI – AlpineTrek (UK)
Merrell Moab 2 Mid GORE-TEX Hiking Boots
Ethical Aspect: The durable Vibram® TC5+ sole will withstand any terrain and last forever.
Price range: $$
PROS:
- Shock absorbent heel
- Contoured insoles provide support for all sole types
- Abrasion resistant uppers
CONS:
- Backs can rub while breaking in
The Merrell vegan hiking boots women’s range is one of the most extensive from a brand that isn’t exclusively vegan.
That’s because Merrell cares about the planet, and vegan shoes are good for the environment.
The Moab model has been around for many years and has been worn by over 20 million happy customers!
This is why the Moab 2 is one of the best vegan walking shoes currently available.
If you are looking for faux leather hiking boots, the Moab 2 is a great option as the uppers are made with synthetic leather giving it that classic look while still being 100% cruelty-free.
Check rates & reviews on:
Merrell
Tecnica Forge GTX Hiking Boots
Ethical aspect: Contains recycled materials for sustainability
Price range: $$$
PROS:
- GORE-TEX® Extended Comfort membranes mean your feet will stay dry in wet weather
- Stay sure-footed on wet and rough terrain with Vibram® Forge outsoles with MegaGrip™
CONS:
- Your feet can get hot in warmer weather
Also on the pricier end of things, the Technica Forge GTX are well worth the investment.
Sometimes with vegan hiking boots, women’s versions can differ greatly from men’s, but with this model, the benefits can be seen in both variations.
They also have great durability and can last for months before showing any signs of wear, making them some of the best vegan hiking boots women can buy.
However, the Tecnica Forge GTX are particularly ideal for those looking for vegan winter boots for hiking as these sometimes trap heat, and so are ideal in cold weather.
Check rates & reviews on:
REI
Vivobarefoot ESC TEMPEST
Ethical aspect: Incorporates algae-based EVA foam which helps maintain healthy waterways
Price range: $$
PROS:
- Extremely lightweight and flexible
- Perfect for barefoot wear
- Some of the best shoes for swim running
CONS:
- Getting the right size might be tricky for first time users of this kind of shoe
Just as with the Vivobarefoot Magna trail boots, the Vivobarefoot Tempest for women is tailor-made to take you through the water just as easily as the land.
The design of these amphibious swim-run shoes was inspired by nature, specifically in the way that coral forms the perfect balance of drainage, protection and flexibility.
They also have excellent grip, as the outsole was created in conjunction with Michelin to make sure that transitioning from land to water and back again is a breeze.
Plus, as you would hope from the best vegan hiking boots, womens are just as well made as the men’s – if not better.
Check rates & reviews on:
VivoBarefoot
Best Vegan Hiking Boots & Shoes for Men
LOWA – Ferrox Pro GTX Mid
Ethical Aspect: Gore-Tex® lining and recycled polyester and they are 100% vegan shoes!
Price range: $
PROS:
- Athletic design
- Highly breathable
- Awesome draining to keep your feet protected
CONS:
- Non-replaceable rubber sole
As per the developers, the Lowa – Ferrox Pro GTX Mid is one of the best vegan hiking boots exclusively developed for hill walking, hiking, and trekking.
The rubber soles and heel bumpers were added to this new athletic design to make sure that you get maximum protection against shocks.
The upper sole and protection have been especially emphasized to take the concept of development to the next level.
Check rates & reviews on:
REI.com – AlpineTrek (UK)
ARC’TERYX Konseal FL GTX
Ethical Aspect: TPU film, recycled polythene, Gore-Tex® membrane, injected thermoplastic, and synthetic materials such as nubuck
Price range: $
PROS:
- Injected EVA covering both the top and the bottom of your foot
- Integrated 3D models (consisting of Ortholite) on the sides to provide maximum comfort
No matter the terrain, the ARC’TERYX Konseal FL GTX has been designed to provide great ankle support.
The all-weather support is enhanced with the help of Vibram mega grip rubber which also keeps the feet warm.
The product is a great option for vegan waterproof hiking boots and becomes sticky on tricky trails due to the TPU film.
It means that even on the rough tracks, this product performs at its very best!
Check rates & reviews on:
REI.com – AlpineTrek (UK)
La Sportiva Stream GTX
Ethical Aspect: Made up of mesh and polyurethane tech lite, EVA, recycled trek rubber
Price range: $$
PROS:
- Extremely long-lasting
- STB control system to ensure stability
CONS:
- Breathability
Two variations are made for this product. The La Sportiva Stream GTX is perfect for both rock climbing and intense treks.
They provide an amazing level of comfort during both activities.
The flawless performance and durability of these boots are all that you need to get going on extensive hiking trips.
Many users love them for their great functionality and everlasting ankle support.
Check rates & reviews on:
REI.com – AlpineTrek (UK)
Astral TR1
Ethical Aspect: Recycled plastic mesh tongue, polyurethane insole, EVA foam, and G15 rubber
Price range: $$
PROS:
- Extra protection to save the foot from shocks and fatigue on rough trails
- Natural walking and barefoot positioning ensure that you get a natural walk
CONS:
- Be careful with sizes as they tend to come smaller!
If you want to make your hiking easier than ever, you must get your hands on the Astral TR1!
They are extremely lightweight and do not let water dampen your feet.
The G15 rubber integration makes the grip very sticky and tight on the ground, and the materials used on the uppers are soft and give maximum protection to the feet.
Many wearers swore by the extraordinary lightness of the TR1 Merge!
Astral also makes some of the best hemp shoes.
Check rates & reviews on:
REI.com – eBay (UK)
La Sportiva Spire GTX
Ethical Aspect: Polyurethane toes, Gore-Tex® membrane, EVA foam inserts, and Vibram XS trek rubber
Price range: $$$
PROS:
- Nano 2.0 mesh that provides breathability to your feet
- Extra tough exterior to protect feet under all circumstances and terrains
The La Sportiva Spire GTX has been designed keeping in mind the protection from mud, rain, and streams.
Vents are patented which means that you will never find your feet sweaty and damp.
Comfort has been taken to the next level thanks to the Vibram trek soles that provide extra stability and responsiveness.
The Gore-Tex® membrane makes it perfect for waterproof hiking trips!
Check rates & reviews on:
REI.com – AlpineTrek (UK)
Vivobarefoot ESC TEMPEST
Ethical Aspect: Recycled nylon, recycled thermal insole, virgin rubber, and EVA foam.
Price range: $$
PROS:
- Top Swim Run shoe
- Long-lasting
- Highly durable materials used
- Organic cage to provide flexibility, drainage and protection
The ESC TEMPEST performs equally well on rocky and wet surfaces.
The animal-free materials, as well as the durability of the product, make it one of the best vegan hiking shoes on the market!
Thanks to a close collaboration with Michelin, the soles on the Vivobarefoot Tempest provide super grip to the ground.
The highlight is the no-sewing construction which makes this boot durable and flexible, with a fabulous minimal design.
Check rates & reviews on:
VivoBarefoot
ALTRA Lone Peak 4.5
Ethical Aspect: Waterproof recycled nylon, eVent, dual EVA foam, Vibram rubber, and dual polyurethane cushioning
Price range: $$
PROS:
- Breathable eVent to get your feet and boots dried in no matter what circumstances
- 25mm under sole height thus ultimate comfort feeling
The ALTRA Lone Peak 4.5 hiking boots have been granted the APMA seal.
The American podiatric medical association certifies that the product is sure to deliver the best results to your feet!
The gaiter trap can also be purchased separately to ensure that you get the gaiter support.
For underfoot protection, you get a stone guard which is just like the bones in the foot to maximize guard.
Check rates & reviews on:
Amazon (US) – AlpineTrek (UK)
Merrell’s Men’s MTL MQM
Ethical aspect: Laces, webbing and mesh insoles all made from 100% recycled materials
Price range: $$
PROS:
- Great for absorbing shock in the heels with their Super Rebound Compound
- Very comfortable from the start without needing to break them in
- Good for lots of kinds of activity
CONS:
- Narrow toe bed
If you’re looking for all-purpose men’s vegan hiking boots, the MTL MQM from Merrell are an excellent choice.
They’ve been designed to work effectively while running, climbing and while hiking on rough terrain.
These versatile vegan hiking boots also have two Vibram® outsole rubber materials for maintaining grip on wet surfaces.
Check rates & reviews on:
Merrell
Merrell Altalight Knit Mid Hiking Boots
Ethical Aspect: Knit upper material is abrasion-resistant making these non-leather hiking boots longer-lasting and less likely to wind up in landfills
Price range: $$
PROS:
- Shock absorbent heel
- Contoured insoles provide support for all sole types
- Abrasion resistant uppers
CONS:
- Backs can rub while breaking in
When it comes to good vegan hiking boots men’s, in particular, can be difficult to find. That’s why I love Merrell.
Merrell makes some of the best vegan-friendly hiking boots for both men and women.
And the Altalight Knit is one of their most popular vegan options.
If you love hiking but have sensitive joints, the Merrell Altalight Knit Mid Hiking Boots are some of the best vegan walking boots for you.
These boots are easy on the knees and the back due to the shock-absorbent Merrell Air Cushion.
Additionally, the sole is fairly flexible and the insoles contour easily to most foot types making them an extra comfy fit.
I also love that they come in a bright orange color if you want a pair of vegan outdoor boots that really stand out!
Check rates & reviews on:
REI.com – Amazon (UK)
What are Vegan Hiking Boots?
Regular hiking boots are often made with regular leather, which means that animals had to die for them.
In 2019, about 240 million animals were killed for leather and by 2025, this number is expected to rise to 430 million!
Vegan-friendly hiking boots and shoes are made without any animal ingredients or byproducts.
Very comfortable, vegan boots are also known to last longer and fulfill ethical standards that traditional boots cannot.
As per the standards, there is no animal leather used in the making of such boots.
How to choose Vegan Hiking Boots?
Some brands label the entire sections as leather-free so that the potential customers get to know the products that are animal and environment-friendly.
More and more brands are also using faux leather to replace standard leather.
When buying hiking boots online, there are 3 things you need to keep in mind.
- Fit: online sellers provide great insights to find the perfect fit.
- Material and components: understand what materials have been used for uppers, lowers, midsoles, outsoles, and other parts of a boot.
- Type: Decide on what activity you want to do with the shoe you’re buying. From mountaineering to easy trails, there’s a type of shoe for almost each hiking activity.
The good news is that Gore-Tex®, a lightweight, windproof, waterproof, and yet breathable membrane used in countless hiking boots, is completely vegan!
Vegan boots are generally lightweight and durable. On top, vegan hiking boots don’t necessarily need to be expensive.
This article provides you with some of the best vegan hiking boots for smaller budgets too.
As this is a relatively new field, work is being done constantly to improve the design of vegan options.
Vegan Hiking Shoes: is it worth the investment?
The answer is certainly yes! Your purchase will have a positive impact and that alone is worth the investment!
You’ll do good to the animals but also to the environment as the processes that are associated with vegan boots create minimal pollution.
The carbon footprint of these shoes is almost negligible too.
Nowadays, vegan boots are widely accepted in the fashion, outdoors and sports industries.
In many cases, vegan shoes last much longer as compared to synthetic ones, so this is definitely worth the investment!
Interested in sustainable fashion? You’ll love these:
- Sustainable Swimwear Brands You’ll Love
- Backpacks made from Recycled Materials
- Salty Bag: Upcycled Sailing Bags
- Affordable Sustainable Eco-Fashion Brands
Short FAQ about the Best Vegan Hiking Boots
Are any walking boots vegan?
Yes! More and more brands are starting to offer at least one or two vegan options, including outdoor companies. Brands like Merrell offer many vegan hiking shoes.
What is the best place to buy vegan hiking boots?
There are a lot of places, but I personally use REI because they offer so many different brands – and not just shoes! Many of their vegan products are marked as vegan.
Are Merrell boots vegan?
Yes, some of them are vegan! Their best vegan hiking boots are the Moab 2 and MQM Flex 2.
Hola! I’m Paulina, a seasoned travelette who crossed the Atlantic Ocean by Boat HitchHiking. On my blog, find expert insights for an extraordinary holiday through outdoor and sustainable travel like hiking, cycling, and sailing. Let’s embark on unforgettable journeys together! 🌍🚀
shayan
Wednesday 22nd of July 2020
beautifuls post