Finding a pair of sustainable and ethical shoes can be a bit of a struggle. This is largely due to the complexity of the construction, the number of components traditionally used and the performance requirements. However, we’re happy to say that there are an increasing amount of innovative shoe brands launching, or in the case of brands like Adidas, existing companies developing a new wave of sustainable shoes.

Here is our round up of our 5 favourite shoes to pair with your Riley Studio products.

1. Veja

A versatile staple for any wardrobe, ethically made in Brazil. Veja have been pioneers in making sustainable and ethical shoes since 2005. As a certified B Corp, they do business the right way, not the easy way, infusing each stage of production with a positive impact. They say ‘the goal of our design studio is simple: create sneakers that will stand the test of time.”

We admire everything that they do, and recommend checking out their website to find out all about their positive business model.

https://www.veja-store.com/

Image via Veja

2. Allbirds 

If you are looking for the ultimate comfy shoe, then look no further. Founded by Tim Brown and Joey Swillinger, Allbirds are crafted from a revolutionary wool fabric made specifically for footwear. All of their laces have been made from recycled plastic bottles and have an insole derived from castor beans. With simplicity at the core of their ethos, Allbirds are ‘made naturally and designed practically’ to last for years to come. As a certified B Corp they are the perfect example of how to create a positive impact brand.

https://www.allbirds.com/

Image via Allbirds

3. Tread by Everlane

As leaders in radical transparency, Everlane were already making considerable headway in the journey towards sustainability… but then they stepped it up even further. Introducing Tread by Everlane. Their mission is to ‘make the world’s lowest-impact sneakers. Make them to last. Make them carbon neutral. And never stop pushing to make them better”. Need we say more?

https://www.everlane.com/tread

Image via Everlane

4. adidas 

One of our favourite partnerships is that of adidas and Parley for the Oceans. Back in 2015, adidas introduced their first shoe made from recycled ocean plastic, but now they have strengthened their commitment to tackling plastic waste by revealing FUTURECRAFT.LOOP – a 100% recyclable running shoe. In 2019 adidas has plans to produce 11 million pairs of shoes containing recycled ocean plastic by intercepting plastic waste on beaches, remote islands and in coastal communities. 

https://www.adidas.co.uk/futurecraft


Image via adidas

5. TOMS®

Leading the way since 2006, TOMS® has given 86 million pairs of shoes to children in need across 70 countries through their One for One® scheme. With every shoe purchased, the brand helps someone in need. Originally focusing on providing shoes, TOMS® now has various programmes that give back, including helping to provide access to water, safe birth and helping give sight. A truly inspirational story and brand.

https://www.toms.co.uk/


Image via TOMS®