9 sustainable trainers that are taking a step in the right direction

These sustainable trainers are perfect for dipping your into eco-friendly fashion
9 sustainable trainers that are taking a step in the right direction
October 2, 2018   |    LIBBY WILLIAMS

Can a trainer really be both sustainable and stylish? These brands are doing their utmost to make it possible and have each designed their own eco-friendly footwear.

From plastic bottles to organic cotton, they’re using only the most innovative manufacturing processes to harness planet-friendly materials and create workout shoes that do their bit for the earth.

GUILT-FREE FOOTWEAR

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ADIDAS X PARLEY ULTRABOOST

Made from: These eco friendly trainers use plastic yarn made using Parley Ocean Plastic™
Suitable for: Gym, running, biking and hiking
Upsides: The Parley Ocean Plastic™ used in the trainer is plastic that's been collected before it reaches the ocean, meaning less plastic is entering the sea
Downsides: At around £150 a pair, saving the planet doesn't come cheap
Cost £££

SKYE Footwear

Made from: The uppers are made from sustainable materials, are man-made and therefore low carbon. The insole and sole are 100% biodegradable and the foam used is completely recyclable.
Suitable for: Cycling, walking, hiking, biking and gym workouts
Upsides: They're sustainably made and recyclable...what more could you ask for?
Downsides: Consider the air miles as these kicks come all the way from America
Cost £££

VIVOBAREFOOT

Made from: 17 plastic bottles per pair
Suitable for: Running, hiking, cycling and workouts
Upsides: The flexible shoe allows the muscles and tendons to load, splay and recoil, putting a natural spring in your step
Downsides: At £110, these trainers are pretty pricey
Cost £££

THE PEOPLE'S MOVEMENT

Made from: 100% upcycled plastic fabrics, organic cotton, water-based glue, nickel-free eyelets and natural dyes
Suitable for: Gym workouts, running, hiking, and cycling
Upsides: The designs are clean, simple and stylish, so can also be worn outside of the gym
Downsides: Based in the US, these sneakers will rack up a lot of air miles whilst in the post
Cost £

ALL BIRDS

Made from: The trainer upper is made from responsibly grown and sustainably harvested eucalyptus pulp. The laces are 100% recycled polyester and the insoles are lines with merino wool
Suitable for: Gym workouts and running
Upsides: The sustainable tree material means these sneakers are breathable and silky-smooth, keeping your feet cool and comfy
Downsides: The use of merino wool means these trainers aren't suitable for vegans
Cost £

ECOALF

Made from: 100% recycled ocean plastic
Suitable for: Gym workouts and running
Upsides: A certified B-Corp, not only does Ecoalf do it's bit for the environment, but also for society
Downsides: Unfortunately, they aren't machine washable
Cost ££

BAABUK

Made from: 100% wool upper with a rubber sole
Suitable for: Gentle activities such as walking
Upsides: As a B-Corp Baabuk uses the power of their business to implement social and environmental change. The trainers are also machine washable...bonus!
Downsides: The designs are a little basic, so not for lovers of colour
Cost £££

VEJA V-10 White Trainers

Made from: Ecological and sustainable materials including organic cotton and wild rubber from the Amazon.
Suitable for: More of a fashion trainer, we recommend sticking to walking with these ones
Upsides: Stylish and sustainable. Tick, tick.
Downsides: Since Meghan has been spotted in them, they're bound to be out of stock soon
Cost: ££

etnies

Made from: Recycled plastic and recycled rubber. Plus, for every pair of etnies Jameson 2 eco purchased, one tree will be planted.
Suitable for: Walking, skateboarding and mountain biking
Upsides: Made with consideraion for the environment, and also gives back with every purchase.
Downsides: Those pesky airmiles! 
Cost ££

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