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16 Vegan Hiking Boots And Shoes 2024

Vegan Hiking Boots

Do you already follow a plant-based diet and are looking to take your commitment to veganism further? Or perhaps you’ve been vegan for years and are in need of some new hiking boots? Either way, you’ve come to right place if vegan hiking boots need to be in your world.

With more and more people making important changes towards vegetarian and plant-based diets over the last few years, there has been a steady rise in amazing vegan products that taste better than ever and are healthier than ever before, too. Additionally, access to vegan-friendly products, that aren’t consumable, is becoming easier and easier. From cosmetics and household items to clothing and footwear, the options for vegan-friendly shoppers are endless. And vegan hiking boots are just another example. The demand for such products is so high now, that even mainstream outdoor brands like Lowa, Salomon and Merrell are finally creating vegan hiking boots with quality that matches (and often exceeds) that of their leather-based counterparts.

I’m not a meat-eater. But nor am I fully plant-based, though I do try to minimise my dairy and egg consumption as much as possible, and only ever opt for free-range / organic when I do. Despite that, the importance of seeking out products that don’t rely on the exploitation of our furry friends is very important to me. Which is why this article exists: to help make consumer decision-making easier for those wanting to make some personal changes.

Summary of vegan hiking boots and shoes

If the world of vegan-friendly outdoor footwear is new to you, then get ready to be amazed. Yes, vegan hiking boots are a thing and, thankfully, they’re not going anywhere fast! Here are some options:

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BootBest forProsConsPrice
Lowa Trek Evo Mid Hiking BootsFast and light hikingWaterproof, very comfortable, lightweight, versatileTongue might be a little too plush for some$$
WVSport Waterproof Hiking BootsBackpacking and trekkingStylish and durable with excellent gripNo Gore-Tex membrane$
Hoka One One Speedgoat Mid 2 GTX Hiking BootsMixed weather, multi season hikingWaterproof, good ankle support, wider forefoot for stabilityWide toe may not suit some$$
Xero Shoes DayLite Hiker Fusion Hiking BootsDry weather hikingLightweight, barefoot-style, great valueNot waterproof$
Merrell MGM Flex 2 Mid GORE-TEXFast and light hikingWaterproof, comfortable fit, excellent gripDurability issues$$
La Sportiva TXS GTXTechnical hiking and backpackingWaterproof, versatile, stableMinimal cushioning$$
Lowa Innox Pro GTX Mid Hiking BootsFastpacking and hikingWaterproof, excellent ankle supportMinimal foot protection, thin midsole cushioning$$
Topo Athletic Trailventure WPFastpacking and hikingGood for wide feet, comfortable, waterproofDurability issues with the lacing system$$
Salomon Cross Hike Mid GTXDay hikes and winter trail runningComfortable, lightweight, versatileSpeed laces won’t suit every wearer$$
Inov8 Roclite 345 GTX Hiking ShoesFast hiking and winter trail runningSuper durable solesSizing can run small$$
Eco Vegan All Terrain Pro Waterproof HikerDay hikes and hill walkingWaterproof and environmentally friendlyNo vibram sole$$
Veggie Trekker MK 5Day hikes and hill walkingDurable and very well madeOnly water resistant$$$
La Sportiva Trango Cube GTXMountaineeringLightweight and comfortableNot as warm as other mountaineering boots$$$$$
Vasque Satoru Trail LT Low Hiking ShoesFastpacking, hiking and runningStylish, encourages natural-movementNot waterproof$$
Vivobarefoot Primus Trail FGDry weather, barefoot-feel hiking on rocky, rough rural or urban terrainLightweight, barefoot-style, eco-friendlyNot waterproof, pricey$$
Merrell Fiery Gore-TexFastpacking and trail runningVery lightweight and versatile (can trail run in them too)Not as supportive as high boots$

There are a thousand reasons why people choose a vegetarian or vegan lifestyle. Too many to even touch upon here. But my research into the growing world of vegan footwear has opened my eyes to what options are out there; if you are considering making some changes as a consumer, small or big, you don’t really need to compromise quality and performance quite as much as you may think. If at all.

How to choose vegan hiking boots

The first and most obvious thing to look for is the materials the boots are made from. There are loads of synthetic and non-leather hiking boots out there. Many of which perform equally well, if not better, than leather hiking boots. This depends on what you are looking for in a hiking boot, but for many hikers, choosing synthetic hiking boots is preferable whether they are vegan or not.

Secondly, and much less obviously, the glue that holds your boots together should be looked at a little more closely. Many synthetic hiking boots and shoes aren’t advertised as vegan because many manufacturers use glue that contains animal products. Or unknown ingredients. This immediately makes things tricky for vegans and vegetarians and much more care is needed in choosing vegan hiking boots.

Some brands clearly state when their products are vegan, but others are a little ambiguous – especially when it comes to the contents of the glues used on their shoes and boots. So if you are unsure, then the best course of action is to contact the companies and brands directly to put your mind at ease. This resource from Vegan8 is also really useful as a quick reference on vegan footwear brands.

When buying a new pair of vegan hiking boots, you also need to consider all the usual things that one needs in a pair of great boots; comfort, fit, support, good value etc. Take a read of these suggestions on what to look for when choosing new hiking boots.

So from my research into what I would choose if I were to buy vegan hiking boots, I have discovered some really great options that I would definitely consider regardless of my vegan/vegetarian values:

16 vegan hiking boots in 2024

Lowa Trek EVO GTX Hiking boots

Lowa Trek Evo Mid Hiking Boots

Designed specifically for female feet, the Lowa Trek Evo Mid Hiking Boots are one of he best women’s vegan hiking boots on the market. They are exceptionally comfortable, right out of the box and also super lightweight, making them ideal for a variety of hiking, travel and outdoor adventure scenarios.

Ellie, our reviewer, is especially smitten with the excellent grip of the soles which are constructed with Vibram Rock Trac Sense. Additional support if provided through the midsole with Lowa’s new DynaPU+ flexible technology to provide great comfort, cushioning and rebound properties. As such, Ellie wears them on long day hikes and multi-day backpacking, as well as for everyday adventures. They’re an all round versatile and waterproof hiking boot with the added benefit of being vegan-friendly!

For more information read our full review of the Lowa Trek Evo GTX hiking boots.

Pros: waterproof, very comfortable, lightweight, versatile
Cons: tongue might be a little too plush for some

Find the latest price on:
Lowa


WVSport Waterproof Hiking Boots

WVSport Waterproof Hiking Boots

Eco-conscious: These boots are carbon neutral! As is everything Will’s Vegan Store makes and does.

Will’s Vegan Store has expanded its vegan hiking boot range in the last few years, and with it has come the WVSport Waterproof Hiking Boots. They’re super smart and sleek, but they also step up to the demands of time on the trail superbly without upping their environmental impact. The vegan leather uppers are fully waterproof and are created with bio oil that is sourced from organic cereal crops grown in Europe. Additionally, the chunky Vibram outsoles that are made from recycled rubber, offer lots of underfoot support and feature fairly aggressive lugs for excellent traction. These are one of the most eco-friendly hiking boots out there.

Pros: stylish and durable with excellent grip
Cons: no Gore-Tex membrane

Find the latest price at:
Will’s Vegan Shoes


HOKA ONE ONE Speedgoat Mid 2 GTX Hiking Boots

Hoka One One Speedgoat Mid 2 GTX Hiking Boots

Hoka One One, known for their natural-movement design and recommended by physios, have upgraded these great looking speed hikers to create a pair of womens vegan hiking boots to be reckoned with.

Surprisingly lightweight for an over-the-ankle hiking boot, the breathable Gore-Tex booties are waterproof and, with the added water-resistant mesh upper, offer complete protection in wet conditions.

An anatomically molded foam ankle collar adds comfort, and the wider forefoot creates an accommodating fit with improved support, ideal for those with foot and knee pain. 5mm lugs and a 4mm heel to toe drop make the Vibram soles responsive yet stable even on wet, slippery terrain. Additionally, zonal rubber placement completes the support and stability requirement for even the most discerning of hikers. A great choice of vegan hiking shoes for all weather trail hiking – and the men’s version is the same price too.

Pros: waterproof, good ankle support, wider forefoot for stability
Cons: wide toe may not suit some

Find the latest price at:
REI | Alpine Trek


Xero Shoes DayLite Hiker Fusion Hiking Boots

Xero Shoes DayLite Hiker Fusion Hiking Boots

One of the lightest pairs of vegan hiking shoes on our list, Xero Shoes claims you might forget to take these off at the end of the trail! Despite being so light The Xero Shoes Daylite Hiker Fusion Hiking Boots are equipped with several flexible functionalities to make them a versatile option for the ‘barefoot’ hiker who enjoys good ground-feel and natural foot movement.

Ultra-flexible roll-up soles and a wide-fit toe box allow feet to move and flex naturally while the zero-drop soles with non-elevated heels assist proper posture, agility and ultimately balance on the trail. Add to this an adjustable instep strap for a relaxing toe fit, and a removable 2mm insole, and you can completely customize the feel of your hiking boots, and change it up as required.
5mm soles with 3.5mm lugs in a dual chevron tread pattern complete the tech spec for traction and grip. All you need in a barefoot vegan hiking boot.

Should you prefer waterproof vegan boots check out the Xero Shoe Xcursion hiking boots – all the barefoot tech with an added waterproof membrane.
Pros: lightweight, ‘barefoot’ tech for natural movement, ground-feel and posture, great value for money
Cons: not waterproof

Find the latest price at:
REI


Merrell MGM Flex 2 Mid GORE-TEX

Merrell MGM Flex 2 Mid GORE-TEX Hiking Boots

The Merrell MGM Flex 2 Mid is a lightweight hiking boot with a highly waterproof GORE-TEX membrane. You shouldn’t have any issues with wet grass or stream crossings with these boots on your feet. Furthermore, at just 752g a pair (woman’s version), they certainly won’t weigh your feet down. When it comes to comfort, these vegan hiking boots are comfortable to wear straight out the box, no need to break them in. A removable contoured insole lets you personalize the fit and, for protection on steep downhill sections, the boots are built with an air cushion in the heel. They also feature a rock plate and TPU toe cap that protects you from sharp stones and trail debris.

Pros: waterproof, comfortable fit, excellent grip
Cons: durability issues

Find the latest price at:
Alpine Trek | Amazon | REI


La Sportiva TXS GTX

La Sportiva TXS GTX Hiking Boots

Eco-conscious: La Sportiva is an ISO Certified company, an official Bluesign member, and works in partnership with the European Outdoor Conservation Association (EOCA). La Sportiva re-use approximately 50% of production waste. Read more here.

The TXS GTX from La Sportiva is a hybrid mountain boot. It offers a lot more comfort than a typical approach shoe but performs better on uphill scrambles than regular hiking boots. The high cut ankle and medium-width outsole, combined with an EVA injected midsole, certainly provides the stable base you need for steep ascents and scree slopes. Meanwhile, the durable and flexible mesh uppers allow the boot to flex with your foot. Another key feature is the boots’ Vibram Megagrip outsole which is specifically designed to help you break and stay in control on steep terrain. It also offers outstanding grip on wet surfaces. However, on flat or non-technical terrain or multi-day treks, you might prefer something with a bit more padding. That said, if you’re looking for a versatile vegan hiking boot that you can use on a variety of terrains, the TXS GTX is certainly worth considering.

Pros: waterproof, versatile, very stable
Cons: minimal cushioning

Find the latest price at:
Alpine Trek | La Sportiva | REI | Backcountry


Lowa Innox Pro GTX Mid

Lowa Innox Pro GTX Mid Hiking Boots

Designed to be lightweight and stable, the Innox Pro GTX Mid is a cross between a trail runner and a traditional hiking boot. Lowa’s trademark MONOWRAP design (a wrapped PU frame) is coupled with a double injected PU midsole. This provides plenty of ankle support and stability. Meanwhile the multi-traction rubber outsole delivers on grip. The one drawback of these vegan hiking boots is the minimal toe and foot protection. Although the synthetic uppers are super durable, there’s little to protect you from stubbing your toes. If you’re a clumsy hiker, the Innox Pro GTX Mid might not be the best vegan hiking boot for you!

Pros: waterproof, excellent ankle support
Cons: minimal foot protection, thin midsole cushioning

Find the latest price at:
Alpine Trek | REI


Topo Athletic Trailventure WP Hiking Boots

Topo Athletic Trailventure WP Hiking Boots

The Topo Athletic Trailventure WP is one of the most comfortable lightweight vegan hiking boots on our list. It’s fitted with a 3-piece ZipFoam midsole that acts as a stable and cushioned base for walking. There’s also a full-length rock plate that protects the sole of your foot from rocks and foam padding that moulds around the ankle. Plus, the roomy toe box makes these vegan hiking boots a smart choice for hikers with wide feet.

When it comes to durability, the Trailventure WP features super tough ripstop uppers, heavy-duty laces, and waterproof taped seams. It’s worth noting, however, that the lacing eyelets may not be as long-lasting as the rest of the boot.

Pros: good for wide feet, comfortable, waterproof
Cons: durability issues with the lacing system

Find the latest price on:
Alpine Trek | REI | Backcountry


Salomon Cross Hike Mid GTX

Salomon Cross Hike Mid GTX Hiking Boots

Super nimble, yet stable and waterproof, the Salomon Cross Hike Mid GTX is a vegan hiking boot that offers the agility of a trail running shoe. The rubber outsole is fitted with deep multi-directional lugs providing excellent grip on unstable terrain, mud, and soggy grass. Meanwhile, the mid-height ankle support offers stability without restricting movement. We also like that the Cross Hike Mid GTX is both waterproof and breathable. Plus, if you hate fiddling about with laces, the elasticated speed-laces are your dream come true. These hiking boots are comfortable straight out the box and perform well on day hikes, and winter trail runs. However, the lack the support of traditional hiking boots often needed on more demanding terrain or for multi-day trekking.

Pros: comfortable, lightweight, versatile
Cons: speed laces won’t suit every wearer

Find the latest price at:
Alpine Trek | REI | Backcountry


Inov8 Roclite 345 GTX Hiking Shoes

Inov8 Roclite 345 GTX Hiking Shoes

The Inov8 Roclite 345 GTX Hiking Shoes are the perfect match for hikers who like to stay nimble on their feet. They combinine the flexibility, comfort and grip of running shoes with the protection and support of hiking boots. Weighing only 815g / 1.9lbs per pair, these lightweight trail boots owe their supreme grip to the innovative graphene-enhanced G-GRIP outsole which offers “the world’s toughest and most durable grip”. Impressive! Add a Gore-Tex membrane for breathable, waterproofness and you’ve got yourself a vegan hiking boot that is ideal for fast and light hikers or winter trail runners.

Pros: Super durable and strong soles
Cons: Sizing can run small

Find the latest price at:
REI | Alpine Trek | Backcountry


Eco Vegan hiking Boots

Eco Vegan All Terrain Pro Waterproof Hiker

Eco-conscious Flurocarbon-free water repellent finish.
Eco Vegan All Terrain Pro Waterproof Hikers are a fully waterproof walking boot. Uniquely, they owe their waterproof properties to the Schoeller’s Ecorepel system that acts in a similar way to the feathers of waterfowl. Ecorepel is also flurocarbon-free. Compared with other water repellent finishes this is a big tick from an environmental viewpoint. In addition to this, the breathable micro-fibre and Advanced Swiss Fabric, also from Schoeller, helps to provide all round good levels of protection from the elements either out in the wild or about town. The lightweight and durable sole adds to the comfort and good quality that will step up to lengthy day hikes and hill walks.

Pros: Environmentally friendly and waterproof
Cons: Sizes come up large

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Eco Vegan


Veggie Trekker Hiking Boots

Veggie Trekker MK 5

The Veggie Trekker MK 5 does a very good job of looking the part, and despite the lack of Gore-tex lining, steps up to its great expectations too. It is a very well made vegan hiking boot that is sturdy and robust and will deal with tough long days of trekking excellently well. The Vibram outsole has deep and chunky lugs that are super grippy, and together with the tough breathable micro-fibre uppers, will take on challenging terrain year round. These boots are superbly well made and will certainly go the distance in terms of durability. Their main downfall is that the Wind-Tex lining is only wind and water resistant, not fully waterproof and windproof. That said, they still manage to do a very good job at keeping water out, even when negotiating bogs and rivers. And if looked after properly, they will stand up well to hiking in wet conditions.

Pros: Very durable and well made
Cons: Too hot for summer hiking

Find the latest price on:
Vegetarian Shoes


La sportiva trango

La Sportiva Trango Cube GTX Mountaineering Boots

These ultralight mountaineering boots may not be designed for the pedestrian hiker, but on winter alpine expeditions these are the top choice for the vegan mountaineer. La Sportiva have reached new heights when it comes to maximising out of box comfort; the seamless upper and direct-inject lacing system resists abrasion and also reduces weight. And the Gore-Tex lining ensures waterproof protection in even the most challenging winter conditions. As one of the lightest mountaineering boots on the market, these vegan winter boots make for an excellent choice for alpine hikers and ice climbers alike. Compatible with hybrid crampons and supported by Vibram soles, you will struggle to find a more comfortable boot of this grade.

Womens version is also available.

Pros: Lightweight and super comfortable
Cons: Not as warm as other mountaineering boots due to their lightweight nature

Find the latest price on:
La Sportiva | Alpine Trek | Backcountry


Vegan hiking shoes

Vasque Satoru Trail LT Low Hiking Shoes

Vasque Satoru Trail LT Low Hiking Shoes

Best suited for dry weather trail hiking while equally at home exploring the neighborhood or out running, the vegan-friendly Vasque Satoru Trail LT Low Hiking Shoes are a comfortable all-rounder for everyday wear. Designed to encourage more natural foot movement they are a good transition shoe if you’re making the change from normal hiking shoes to barefoot-style boots.

As far as men’s lightweight lace-up hiking shoes go, the three stylish colourways of the Sartoru Trail LTs are some of the most comfortable hiking shoes in the category with a fashionable edge. For sartorial elegance, the Dried Tobacco colourway looks good around town while retaining an outdoorsy air, the green heeled Ebony colour looks like a sneaker and the quirkily named Tap Shoe, with black upper/white sole colourway, has the air of a soccer boot – something for everyone.

The Vasque Satoru Trail LT Low Hiking Shoes keeps feet protected and comfortable with a moisture-wicking textile lining but is not waterproof enough for wet trails or creek crossing. Mid-shoe technologies coupled with Vibram soles give high rebound, cushion and durability as well as good grip and multidirectional traction. All while looking good enough for the mall too!

Pros: stylish, encourages natural-movement
Cons: not waterproof

Find the latest price at:
REI


HOKA ONE ONE Speedgoat Mid 2 GTX Hiking Boots

Vivobarefoot Primus Trail FG

Eco-friendly as well as vegan, the high performance Vivobarefoot Primus Trail Knit FG hiking shoe looks as good in the hills as it does about town, in a black colourway that looks more like a sneaker than a hiking shoe.

Foot shaped with a wide toe box for natural movement and stability, your feet feel well protected while retaining close contact with the ground. In fact the firm ground sole made from a sticky rubber compound is built for multi terrain traction with 4mm lugs on a 2.5mm base retaining grip and ground-feel in wet and dry weather on rocky or firm terrain. A textured arch adds to zonal grip providing technical trail movement.

Eco credentials include post-consumer recyclable and renewable materials, and the option to return used boots for recycling.

The knitted upper is breathable and flexible but not waterproof.

Pros: ‘Barefoot’ tech for natural movement, ground-feel and posture, eco-friendly
Cons: Not waterproof, pricey

Find the latest price at:


Merrell Fiery Gore-Tex

Merrell Fiery Gore-Tex

For those looking for one shoe for all adventures, these Merrell vegan hiking shoes are an excellent option. Though designed for trail running in rugged mountain terrain, these waterproof shoes are beefy enough to provide plenty of protection and stability for fast and light hikers, too. Fastpackers will love their low weight (650g per pair), as well as the M Select GRIP outsole for excellent grip over mixed terrain. Plus, the synthetic leather and mesh shoes feature a synthetic toe cap to allow for super-charged hiking, trekking or running in tough conditions.

Pros: Very lightweight and versatile (can trail run in them too)
Cons: Less ankle support than high boots

Find the latest price at:
Amazon


Whether you are vegan, vegetarian or a fully fledged carnivore, this excellent selection of vegan hiking boots is guaranteed to have something for you. And if having a fully synthetic walking boot is non-negotiable, then there really is no need to compromise on top class hiking footwear any longer. Happy feet all round!

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About the author

author-joey

Joey Holmes is based in Cornwall, UK, and runs Cool of the Wild. She can’t get enough of being outdoors – whether that’s lounging around the campfire cooking up a feast, hitting the trail in her running shoes, or attempting to conquer the waves on her surfboard – she lives for it. Camping is what she loves to do the most, but has also spent many hours clinging to the side of a rock face, cycling about the place, cruising the ski-slopes on her snowboard, and hiking small mountains and big hills.

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