Footwear is an perennial problem. During summer we spend the whole time Googling eco trainers and working out how to justify the pricey P&P. And, come winter, even sturdiest of sneakers are ruined by a little rain and city slush. So rather than mourn the was-white finish and box fresh laces, we’re making the case for the winter boot; like the kind you had as a child, but cooler.

And vegan. Yes, believe it — with the increase in interest for all things animal-free, footwear brands are emerging that are either 100% vegan, while bigger ones — like DMs — are launching capsule collections.

More good news: practicality got hot — the dad sneaker and the hiking boot, which have already survived a few seasons, are prime examples. So rather than prioritising aesthetics, we’re thinking about what will last as well.

Here are our best vegan boots:

Dr Martens

Upsides: DMs are planet-loving pioneers; making packaging from waste, using sustainable materials in some shoes and providing vegan options in a lot of their classic styles
Our Pick: Cherry Red Cambridge Brush, £135, Dr Martens

Green Shoes

Upsides: Vegan, handcrafted (in Dartmoor) and made to order (so no wastage)
Our Pick: Field Boots, £200, Green Shoes

Beyond Skin

Upsides: Grown-up leather-free styles with a plant-based coat, which makes even these light finishes impressively hardwearing
Our Pick: Lyra Camel Knee High Vegan Boots, £180, Beyond Skin

Farylrobin

Upsides: Farylrobin offer a sh*t load of vegan styles, from hiking to party-ready boots. Statement bamboo sock, optional.
Our Pick: Vegan Midtown Heel Boot, £112.04, Free People

Bangs Shoes

Upsides: Simple, sporty styles that give back to entrepreneurs, through their scheme which supports new businesses, as well as the environment
Our Pick: High tops, £45.82 , Bangs Shoes

Will’s Vegan Shoes

Upsides: 100% carbon-neutral, gender-fluid styles
Our Pick: Continental Chelsea Boots, £95, Will’s Vegan Shoes