Don’t get me wrong – I love a stylish pair of heels or some imposing vegan leather boots… But in the middle of the summer, when it’s warm all day, I really enjoy a comfortable pair of sandals.
They’re lightweight, won’t make your feet sweat, and give you the freedom of walking barefoot without actually having to get your feet dirty (now that’s a win-win situation).
If you’ve been searching for the best vegan sandals, then you’ve come to the right spot, because I absolutely adore sandals! My boyfriend says I have “too many,” but I don’t think I have enough.
So, below, I thought I’d share some of my favourite pairs of vegan sandals with you!
Let’s take a look…
How Are Vegan Sandals Different?
As far as the shape and design go, vegan sandals aren’t all that different from any regular pair of non-vegan sandals. The main difference between vegan and non-vegan sandals is that vegan sandals are 100% leather-free.
Vegan sandals aren’t made with any animal-derived leather. Instead, they’re made from sustainable materials like plant-based leather, faux leather, rubber, and other textiles which I’ll elaborate on below.
Vegan sandals are available in a number of different designs and patterns, depending on their intended use. Some are simple everyday sandals meant for light walking.
Others are athletic sandals designed with high-quality soles that are made for hiking. And, of course, some sandals are stylish and sexy, so you can show up to the pool party with confidence!
For the most part, vegan sandals are engineered to the same degree of quality as non-vegan sandals. In fact, designer brands have been releasing more and more ultra-high-quality sandals that are even better than the leather sandals offered by mid-tier clothing brands.
What Are Vegan Sandals Made Of?
The most common material that vegan sandals are made of is faux leather. This vegan-friendly leather is manufactured from plastic PVC that’s layered with wax and dye.
The result is a material that looks and feels just like real leather, except for the fact that no animals were killed in the making of it!
Other than faux leather, though, here are some of the other common materials you’ll find used in vegan sandals:
| Materials Used For Vegan Sandals | Description |
| Plant-Based Leather | This is a revolutionary new concept that only a few leather manufacturers worldwide have gotten into. Essentially, they take old “trash” fruits, such as mangos and avocados. Then, they blend the fruit into a thick pulp, add a hardening agent, and then pour the hardened pulp into thin sheets. These sheets have the same strength, texture, and consistency as real leather! |
| Rubber | Rubber is still the most commonly used material for soles. Athletic vegan sandals typically use harder, reinforced rubber, while comfort sandals use a lighter, softer rubber. |
| Hemp | Hemp is a natural cannabis plant that’s currently legal in the US. While some use it for medicine (CBD supplements), the fibres of the plant are incredibly strong and can be used to make a durable fabric! |
| Polyester or Nylon | Polyester and nylon are two synthetic materials that are often used to make the “stretchy” components of sandals. These allow for smooth movement and allow your foot to naturally bend, instead of remaining stiff. |
Are Birkenstock Sandals Vegan?
Birkenstock sandals are easily some of the most in-demand sandals in the world right now. They’re a high-quality designer brand that can be found in department stores worldwide. Currently, some of their best-selling sandals are made with real leather, which of course is not vegan.
However, they recently started manufacturing a line of vegan-friendly sandals as well. I own a pair myself, and they’re some of the best everyday sandals I’ve ever had! They’re incredibly comfortable, and durable, and I could wear them all day without a problem.
I’ve reviewed them below if you’re interested.
In the meantime, check out their latest commercial for their vegan sandal collection:
The Best Vegan Sandals 2024: Stylish & Comfortable
So, now that I’ve got you all curious, let’s get down to business.
If you’re reading this, then it’s probably safe to say that you’re trying to find the perfect pair of sandals to get you through the next season. If so, then you’re talking to the right gal!
I take my sandals very seriously, so I know their quality when I see them. I also happen to own a lot of sandals myself (since they’re my favourite type of shoe).
So, without further ado, here are some of the best vegan sandals that money can buy. Are you ready to start walking in style?
1) Nomadic State of Mind “JC” Sandal (link)
- Comfort Rating: 9/10
Okay guys, it really doesn’t get any more “ancient” than this. Nomadic State of Mind’s “JC” Sandal (name after none other than the man himself). These sandals feature an ancient design with modern tweaks.
They quite literally were the height of fashion in the ancient world. If you were to time travel back to biblical times, I guarantee that everybody and their neighbour would be rocking a pair of these as they walked through the hot sandy village roads.
All jokes aside, though, these are literally some of the most comfortable sandals I’ve worn. They’re certainly a departure from the over-engineered shoes of today.
I love the simple design, incredible comfort, and unique look. Every time I wear these sandals out, I get a couple of compliments and curious looks.
Plus, you have to admit – this commercial really sells the whole island life vibe:
The entire sandal is made out of recycled polypropylene rope. This is the same type of rope that you’ll find used for marine applications.
Instead of brand-new rope, though, these shoes are made with partially reclaimed rope, which means less plastic rope in the landfills and more comfortable shoes for vegans like you and me!
Even the sole is made from rope. This almost makes it feel like you’re walking barefoot. As you walk, the ridges in the rope apply pressure down the bottom of your foot, and it almost feels like you’re getting a foot massage while you’re walking!
They’re also a sustainable company with a commitment to eco-friendly design and manufacturing processes, so that’s another great reason to give them a try.
Pros:
- Super comfortable and lightweight
- Made from reclaimed rope
- Feels like you’re getting a foot massage as you walk
- Easy to wash in the washing machine
Cons:
- The style is definitely unique and not for everybody
2) Cushionaire Vegan Sandals For Women (link)
- Comfort Rating: 9/10
If you like Birkenstock sandals but can’t afford them, then Cushionaire’s Vegan Sandals For Women are the next best thing. They look very similar to Birkenstocks and feel almost as good. They’re also only one-third of the price, which is great for anybody looking to save some money!
The upper of the sandals are made from 100% vegan suede leather. This is just regular vegan faux leather that’s been roughed up and texturized to give it a suede appearance.
Personally, I like suede for sandals, as it doesn’t scratch and scuff as easily (which comes in handy when you’re at the beach).
The insole is also made from vegan suede. The soft leather-like material conforms to the natural pressure of your foot and forms a lasting mould. After a few days of wearing them, it will feel like they were specially designed for you.
The outsole is made from high-quality, durable EVA. This is a reinforced rubber-like material that’s great for anybody who spends a lot of time walking. It won’t wear down as fast as the typical rubber soles on most sandals and provides better shock absorption for long walks.
Another thing I really appreciate about these Cushionaire sandals is that they’re available in wide sizes. So, if you’re somebody who has a wider-than-average foot, then you’ll find this brand very accommodating.
Pros:
- Made from vegan suede leather
- Durable EVA outsole
- The vegan suede insole conforms to your foot’s natural shape
- Available in “wide” sizes
- Affordable alternative to Birkenstocks
Cons:
- They run a bit small, so order a size up than you usually wear
3) Dr. Marten’s Women’s Vegan Blaire Cambridge Fisherman Sandal (link)
- Comfort Rating: 8/10
If you’re looking for a comfortable sandal that you can wear around all day, then Dr. Marten’s Women’s Vegan Blair Cambridge Fisherman Sandals are an excellent choice!
The thing I like most about these sandals is that you can dress them up or dress them down. They look just as good while you’re lounging around in a pair of shorts as they do while wearing a sexy summer dress.
Their versatility makes them the perfect “going out” sandal for those of you who aren’t sure where the rest of your day is going. If you’re planning one of those days where you plan on going to the beach, shopping, and then going to the club, you can wear these vegan sandals to all three!
Personally, I own the gunmetal gray (it’s really more of an off-black) sandals that feature the crocodile pattern imprinted into the vegan leather. This adds a flair of style that I really appreciate, and it matches really well with my crocodile pattern vegan leather purse.
That being said, they’re available in eight different colours, so there’s guaranteed to be something that fits your unique style.
The soles on these shoes are quite comfortable. They feature a slight platform, so expect to be about an inch taller than you are while barefoot. The sole itself is made from medium-density foam.
This provides superior shock absorption, making them great for walking around all day. It also conforms well to the shape of your foot.
The straps are made from synthetic polyurethane leather, so they’re 100% vegan (even though they look like they’re not).
Overall, the design quality is truly excellent. I’ve always loved Dr. Marten’s and the craftsmanship the company puts into each and every one of their shoes.
My Dr. Marten’s work boots are still some of my favourite boots to this day, and my new Dr. Marten’s sandals are quickly becoming my new favourites as well!
Pros:
- Supportive straps make them great for walking around all-day
- Comfortable foam sole absorbs impact and relieves stress on joints
- Made with synthetic leather straps
- Comfortable blister-free design
- Lightweight
Cons:
- They’re a little on the expensive side
4) Birkenstock Women’s Arizona Birko-Flor Birkibuc Vegan Slip-on Sandals (link)
- Comfort Rating: 10/10
As I mentioned above, Birkenstock sandals are some of the most popular sandals in the world right now. They’re just as popular with middle-aged moms as they are with young hipsters and fashionistas.
Birkenstock Women’s Arizona Slip-On Sandals really are a true one-style-fits-all type of sandal!
At first glance, you’ll immediately notice the similarities between this sandal and the off-brand Cushionaire sandals that I reviewed above. However, a closer look will reveal some key differences…
For one, the sole features built-in ridges that are designed to line up with your foot’s natural curvature and crevices. I especially like the little ridge that’s right behind the toes. It provides the perfect amount of micro-support for the front of my foot and relieves toe stress while walking.
The inner sole lining also features a thin layer of microfiber fabric that feels heavenly under your feet. It’s just like you’re walking on a cloud.
Also, you’ll notice that the outsole features a waffle design that’s reminiscent of the old Nike running shoes.
This waffle-style outsole not only gives the sandals a bouncier feel while you’re walking but also ensures that the sandals are slip-resistant, so you don’t fall and bust your behind after stepping in a puddle!
Pros:
- Ultra-smooth and comfortable insole
- Waffle-pattern outsole for better grip
- Made with high-quality vegan leather
- Extra support and intuitive design
Cons:
- They’re expensive for sandals
5) Sanuk Women’s Yoga Sling-Style Sandal (link)
- Comfort Rating: 9/10
If you really want to unleash your inner yogini, then I highly recommend buying a pair of Sanuk Women’s Yoga Sling-Style Sandals. These are some of the simplest yet most intuitively-designed sandals that I’ve ever worn in my life.
They’re perfect for yoga, a day at the beach, or just walking around the house.
They feature simple insoles that are made from recycled yoga mats (pretty cool, right?). If you’ve ever used a yoga mat before, then you may remember how soft and supportive they are. The outsoles are made from a thicker, more durable rubber material.
What makes these sandals so cool is their sling-style foot thong. It’s made from two pieces of soft, flexible fabric.
You place the thong between your large toe and then you can place the rear sling behind your ankle. This allows you to place the ankle sling wherever feels comfortable for you! The higher up on your ankle you place the sling, the more support it will give your ankle.
Pros:
- Innovative sling-style design
- Super-comfortable insole made from recycled yoga mats
- Durable rubber outsole
- Available in ten different colours and shades
Cons:
- Not designed for heavy-duty use
Which Brand of Sandals Is The Most Comfortable?
If I had to pick the most comfortable vegan sandals, I’d say that the Birkenstock Women’s Arizona Birko-Flor Birkibuc Vegan Slip-on Sandals are the most comfortable.
I love how the insole conforms to my foot’s natural shape and the construction of the sandals leaves nothing to be desired.
While they are a bit more expensive than I typically go for in a pair of sandals, I don’t mind paying the price for comfort.
The Verdict – What’s The Best Pair Of Vegan Sandals?
If I had to narrow down my entire sandal collection to one pair, then I’d say that the Nomadic State of Mind “JC” Sandals are, by far, some of my favourites.
Not only are they incredibly lightweight and comfortable but they’re also incredibly versatile, easy to wash, and light enough to fit in my purse!
If you’re looking for something designed for higher levels of activity, then I recommend checking out my post on the best vegan Nike’s next!
