As consumers become increasingly aware of environmental issues, the demand for eco-friendly alternatives in every industry is rising—especially in fashion. One of the most impactful shifts has been in footwear manufacturing, where brands are rethinking the very materials they use to make shoes. Choosing sustainable materials doesn’t just reduce environmental harm—it can also create more durable, comfortable, and stylish footwear.
From plant-based fabrics to recycled synthetics, these materials are redefining what it means to make—and wear—a responsible pair of shoes. Not only do they help conserve natural resources and reduce waste, but many also offer unique textures, breathability, and resilience that rival or even surpass traditional options. Whether you’re a conscious shopper or just curious about what goes into your favorite pair of sneakers, understanding these materials is the first step toward a greener wardrobe.
In this article, we’ll explore the best eco-friendly materials used today in shoe production, what makes them sustainable, and why they’re transforming the way we walk through the world.
1. Organic Cotton
Why it’s sustainable:
Organic cotton is grown without synthetic pesticides, fertilizers, or genetically modified organisms (GMOs), making it much safer for the environment and the farmers involved.
How it’s used:
It’s commonly used in shoe linings, uppers, and even laces. It’s breathable, soft, and biodegradable—perfect for comfort-focused footwear.
Environmental benefits:
- Uses up to 91% less water than conventional cotton
- Reduces soil and water pollution
- Promotes biodiversity
In addition to its environmental perks, organic cotton supports ethical labor practices by often being produced under fair trade standards. Its natural softness makes it especially appealing for brands that prioritize comfort without compromising sustainability. As more consumers demand transparency, organic cotton stands out as a clear choice for shoes that feel good—both on your feet and in your conscience.
2. Recycled PET (Plastic Bottles)
Why it’s sustainable:
PET (polyethylene terephthalate) is the type of plastic used in most water bottles. Instead of ending up in landfills or oceans, it can be collected, cleaned, melted down, and spun into durable threads for use in textiles.
How it’s used:
Recycled PET is often used in sneaker uppers, linings, and even some soles. It’s strong, flexible, and keeps plastic out of the environment.
Environmental benefits:
- Reduces plastic waste
- Lowers carbon emissions compared to virgin polyester
- Can be recycled again in some cases
Recycled PET has become a game-changer in sustainable fashion by giving plastic a second life. Its versatility allows for creative design, and many brands are now using it to create stylish, high-performance shoes without relying on virgin materials. By turning waste into wear, recycled PET not only helps clean up our planet but also demonstrates how innovation can turn environmental problems into fashion-forward solutions.
3. Cork
Why it’s sustainable:
Cork is harvested from the bark of cork oak trees without cutting them down. The trees naturally regenerate their bark, making cork a renewable, biodegradable resource.
How it’s used:
Common in footbeds, insoles, and sometimes outsoles. Cork is lightweight, mold-resistant, and provides excellent cushioning.
Environmental benefits:
- No tree is cut down in the process
- Supports biodiversity in cork oak forests
- Naturally antimicrobial and biodegradable
4. Natural Rubber
Why it’s sustainable:
Unlike synthetic rubber (which is petroleum-based), natural rubber is derived from the latex of rubber trees. When sourced responsibly, it’s a renewable material that can biodegrade over time.
How it’s used:
Used primarily in soles and outsoles. It’s durable, flexible, and can be harvested ethically from rubber plantations.
Environmental benefits:
- Biodegradable
- Renewable when responsibly harvested
- Less energy-intensive than synthetic alternatives
5. Piñatex (Pineapple Leather)
Why it’s sustainable:
Piñatex is a leather alternative made from the fibers of pineapple leaves—a byproduct of the fruit industry. It provides income for farmers and reduces agricultural waste.
How it’s used:
Often used in place of leather in sneakers, boots, and fashion-forward footwear. It’s lightweight, water-resistant, and cruelty-free.
Environmental benefits:
- Vegan and biodegradable
- Reduces agricultural waste
- No additional land or water needed for cultivation
6. Algae Foam
Why it’s sustainable:
Algae foam is created by harvesting harmful algae blooms from freshwater sources, which helps restore aquatic ecosystems. The algae is then processed into a durable foam used in midsoles and footbeds.
How it’s used:
Commonly used in sports shoes, sandals, and casual footwear. It’s soft, cushioning, and surprisingly strong.
Environmental benefits:
- Removes excess algae from waterways
- Reduces reliance on petroleum-based foams
- Biodegradable in certain formulations
7. Hemp
Why it’s sustainable:
Hemp grows fast, requires very little water, and doesn’t need pesticides or herbicides. It also improves soil health and absorbs CO₂ during its growth cycle.
How it’s used:
Used in uppers, linings, and canvas-style sneakers. It’s breathable, durable, and has a natural texture that appeals to eco-conscious consumers.
Environmental benefits:
- Naturally pest-resistant
- Improves soil health
- One of the most sustainable textiles available
8. Recycled Rubber
Why it’s sustainable:
Rather than producing new rubber, recycled rubber is made from materials like old tires, post-consumer rubber, or factory scraps. This helps divert waste from landfills and reduces demand for raw rubber.
How it’s used:
Often found in outsoles and midsoles. It offers great traction, resilience, and durability.
Environmental benefits:
- Reduces landfill waste
- Requires less energy to produce
- Extends the lifecycle of rubber products
9. Tencel (Lyocell)
Why it’s sustainable:
Tencel is made from wood pulp sourced from FSC-certified trees (usually eucalyptus or beech), processed using a closed-loop system that recycles 99% of the solvents used.
How it’s used:
Soft, breathable, and moisture-wicking, Tencel is used in shoe linings and sometimes in uppers. It’s comfortable against the skin and has a silky feel.
Environmental benefits:
- Biodegradable and compostable
- Uses less water than cotton
- Closed-loop production reduces pollution
10. Apple Leather
Why it’s sustainable:
Made from the discarded skins, cores, and pulp of apples from the juice industry, apple leather offers a creative way to upcycle food waste into fashion.
How it’s used:
Increasingly popular in vegan footwear lines, used in sleek boots, sneakers, and dress shoes.
Environmental benefits:
- Reduces food waste
- Vegan and cruelty-free
- Biodegradable under the right conditions
Choosing the Right Materials Matters
The material that makes up your shoes matters more than you might think. From how it’s sourced, processed, and worn, to what happens when you throw it away—each stage has an environmental impact. By supporting footwear brands that use eco-friendly materials, you’re helping reduce waste, cut carbon emissions, and move the fashion industry in a more sustainable direction.
Whether you’re shopping for comfort, performance, or style, there’s an earth-friendly material that fits the bill. Next time you lace up or slip on a new pair, take a moment to think: what are these shoes really made of—and what do they stand for?
Amilton Lelo is a passionate writer and sustainability advocate contributing to FJ93Tech, a blog dedicated to tips and trends in sustainable footwear. With a background in environmental studies and a deep interest in eco-friendly fashion, Amilton combines research and real-world insight to help readers make conscious choices when it comes to their shoes. His articles aim to inspire a shift toward greener lifestyles without compromising style or comfort.