Let’s face it—most of us don’t really think about what our shoes are made of. We buy them because they look good, feel right, and maybe fit the budget. But here’s something you might not have considered: most regular shoes are made from plastic-based materials, synthetic rubber, and chemical glues that take hundreds of years to break down.
Now imagine if every step you take could actually do a little good for the planet.
Here’s a roundup of 15 Indian Sustainable Shoe Brands that are helping us step in the right direction.
Neeman’s
Neeman’s is India’s go-to for sustainable, everyday shoes. They’ve made sneakers that feel like socks but act like serious footwear.
- Materials: Recycled PET bottles, Merino wool, natural rubber
- Products: Sneakers, slip-ons, loafers
- Best for: Daily wear, work, travel
Paaduks
Paaduks combine traditional Indian styles with recycled innovation. Their footwear is handcrafted by artisans using discarded tyres.
- Materials: Upcycled tyres, cork, cotton threads
- Products: Sandals, kolhapuris, flats
- Best for: Casuals, gifting, eco-ethnic wear
Solethreads
This fun, funky brand takes old flip-flops and turns them into colorful, comfy sliders. It’s youthful, bold, and totally sustainable.
- Materials: Recycled EVA, natural rubber
- Products: Flip-flops, sliders
- Best for: Home wear, beach trips, everyday lounging
Greensole
Greensole is more than a shoe brand—it’s a social movement. They recycle old shoes and provide them to those in need.
- Materials: Recycled soles, textile waste
- Products: Sports shoes, sandals, school shoes
- Best for: Budget buys, social impact gifting
Thaely
Thaely takes plastic bags and turns them into premium street-style sneakers. Every pair is fashion-forward and eco-smart.
- Materials: Plastic bags, bottles, plant-based glue
- Products: Unisex sneakers
- Best for: Streetwear, statement shoes, youth style
Flatheads
Born for India’s climate, Flatheads makes breathable shoes using innovative natural fibers.
- Materials: Banana fiber, linen, bamboo
- Products: Knit sneakers, slip-ons
- Best for: Hot weather, long walks, WFH
BOHECO B Label
From the house of Bombay Hemp Co., this line of footwear uses strong, breathable hemp—one of the most eco-friendly materials out there.
- Materials: Hemp canvas
- Products: Casual sneakers
- Best for: Earthy styling, everyday minimalism
Monkstory
Monkstory gives men’s dress shoes a sustainable twist. No leather, no guilt—just sleek vegan footwear.
- Materials: Vegan leather (PU), recycled material
- Products: Loafers, slip-ons, formal shoes
- Best for: Workwear, parties, fashion-conscious buyers
Chupps
Chupps upgrades daily slippers with recyclable foam and simple comfort. They’re waterproof, flexible, and made for Indian living.
- Materials: Recyclable EVA foam
- Products: Slippers, chappals, sliders
- Best for: Monsoon days, chill evenings
Ikolahi
From Punjab, Ikolahi brings local craftsmanship and sustainable materials together. Their shoes are clean, classic, and conscious.
- Materials: Organic canvas, recycled rubber
- Products: Casual slip-ons, everyday shoes
- Best for: Indo-western wear, office casuals
A Blunt Story
This quiet but classy brand makes simple shoes with a big purpose—using natural and upcycled fabrics in timeless designs.
- Materials: Upcycled cotton, cork, canvas
- Products: Minimal flats, slides
- Best for: Capsule wardrobes, conscious consumers
Coral Haze
Coral Haze transforms traditional Indian juttis into vegan, hand-embroidered masterpieces. Perfect for modern weddings.
- Materials: Faux leather, handloom fabrics
- Products: Ethnic juttis
- Best for: Festive looks, bridalwear, gifting
Banjaaran Studio
Think of Banjaaran as wearable art. Each shoe is handmade using waste fabric, and every pair is unique.
- Materials: Upcycled textiles, old denim, scrap leather
- Products: Designer shoes
- Best for: Creative styling, limited-edition lovers
Ethik
Ethik gives the classic gentleman's shoe a vegan reboot. If you need something sleek for work, this brand delivers—without leather.
- Materials: Vegan leather, recycled PU
- Products: Formal shoes, monk straps
- Best for: Offices, formal events, conscious dressing
The Alternate
The Alternate offers rustic footwear with a modern soul—using raw, nature-friendly materials in casual styles.
- Materials: Cork, jute, recycled rubber
- Products: Slip-ons, open sandals
- Best for: Boho wear, slow living styles
Conclusion
Choosing sustainable shoes isn’t just a trend—it’s a thoughtful move toward a cleaner future. Whether you prefer sneakers, sandals, or ethnic juttis, these Indian brands prove you can have style, comfort, and ethics all in one step.
So next time you’re shoe shopping, pause. Look for a label that gives back to the Earth. Your feet—and the planet—will thank you.
