If you are a vegan who’s in love with the outdoors, you’ve probably experienced the struggle of finding a good pair of vegan hiking boots that match your ethics.
I remember how difficult it was just a few years ago to tell if a hiking boot was truly vegan. The manufacturers provided almost no details about the sources of the glue, and you sometimes found out too late that they used “hidden materials” in their products.
Fortunately, today everything is a bit more transparent, so it was easier for us to identify the best hiking boots that are 100% vegan. So, let’s just dive in and see how they performed.
EDITOR’S CHOICE
La Sportiva Ultra Raptor II Mid
#2ND BEST CHOICE
The North Face VECTIV
#3RD BEST CHOICE
Salomon Outline Mid Gore-Tex
Our Top Recommended Vegan Hiking Boots
1) La Sportiva Ultra Raptor II Mid GTX
With an ultra-resistant rubber outsole and Gore-Tex waterproofing, this model is ready to face rainy weather and even some muddy patches you will cross successfully.
The La Sportiva Ultra Raptor II Mid GTX is a rugged vegan hiking boot designed for serious vegan hikers heading on challenging trails.
With an ultra-resistant rubber outsole and Gore-Tex waterproofing, this model is ready to face rainy weather and even some muddy patches you will cross successfully.
Many users say that this model tends to run narrow, even for those with narrow feet, and I agree. For the test, I opted to increase my shoe size by half and pick the wide version, knowing about this issue, and the vegan hiking boots fit me like a sock, with almost no break-in time required.
The Air Mesh in the upper also makes them breathable, so they work great for long distances.
Specs
● Weight (pair): “1 lb. 10 oz. (women’s 9), 2 lbs. 1 oz. (men’s 11)”
● Waterproof: yes
● Upper Material: High-weave AirMesh/microfiber/thermoplastic polyurethane
PROS
CONS
2) The North Face VECTIV Exploris Mid FUTURELIGHT
Of all the vegan footwear options out there, The North Face VECTIV Exploris Mid FUTURELIGHT stands out through its surprisingly lightweight construction.
These vegetarian shoes feature the OrthoLite® X55 sole, so you can rely on them to offer support and comfort during your mountain hiking expeditions.
We wanted to check if the Cordura ripstop upper on these vegan walking boots can stand the rigor of rough hiking, and they proved extremely reliable on our 5-mile technical terrain hike, with almost no abrasion marks at the end.
Compared to traditional hiking boots, these vegan options are more breathable and sustainable, which is also a big plus.
Specs
● Weight (pair): “1 lb. 9.8 oz. (women’s), 1 lb. 11.3 oz. (men’s)”
● Waterproof: yes
● Upper Material: Abrasion-resistant Cordura ripstop mesh
PROS
CONS
3) Salomon Outline Mid Gore-Tex
The GTX waterproof lining keeps water away, and they are lightweight enough to function as trail running shoes.
While is not a vegan brand, Salomon makes some of the best men’s and women’s vegan hiking boots on the market, and the Salomon Outline Mid Gore-Tex is a very popular choice.
Our tests revealed that these non-leather hiking boots perform excellently on muddy and mixed terrain due to their aggressive lug geometry that bites into any surface.
Unfortunately, since this is a low-cut vegan boot, it doesn’t offer too much ankle support, but you should be safe if you only tackle light trails.
If ankle support is something you’re interested in, we suggest reading our post on the most recommended ankle support hiking boots where we analyzed the top products on the market.
Specs
● Weight (pair): “1 lb. 8.6 oz. (women’s), 1 lb. 13.6 oz. (men’s)”
● Waterproof: yes
● Upper Material: Waterproof textile
PROS
CONS
4) Merrell Moab Speed Mid GTX
The Merrell Moab Speed Mid GTX isn’t a regular pair of vegan-friendly hiking boots but an excellent option for vegans looking to reduce their carbon footprint.
These vegan hiking shoes are made with natural and recycled materials, which are used in mesh uppers and laces to help protect the environment. Yet they are still extremely resistant to wear and performant on challenging terrain due to their Vibram sole.
As we trialed this model on a longer hike, it became clear that it is more of a trail running shoe than a traditional hiking boot, but it is comfortable enough for light to moderate waterproof hiking.
Specs
● Weight (pair): “1 lb. 3.2 oz. (women’s 7), 1 lb. 8.96 oz. (men’s 10.5)”
● Waterproof: Gore Tex Lining
● Upper Material: Breathable mesh and TPU
PROS
CONS
5) Altra Lone Peak 7
Although not a waterproof footwear option, the Altra Lone Peak 7 remains one of the best vegan hiking boots for trail hiking and exploring the great outdoors.
As opposed to most vegetarian shoes we’ve tried, these boots have a wider toe box, so they are a great fit for hikers with wide feet.
Moreover, Altra Lone Peak 7 features a reliable outsole design and an airy upper which we found to reduce discomfort during day hikes and allow you to move faster and more confidently.
If keeping your feet dry is something you look into, then we suggest looking at the other shoes or seeing our review of the best waterproof hiking boots.
Specs
● Weight (pair): “1 lb. 2.4 oz. (women’s), 1 lb. 6 oz. (men’s)”
● Waterproof: no
● Upper Material: Textile and synthetic quick-dry air mesh
PROS
CONS
6) Merrell MQM Flex 2 Mid GTX
The combination of mesh and thermoplastic urethane is both breathable and comfortable, offering enough flexibility for a vegan trekking enthusiast like me.
A trail runner option for hikers who have adopted a vegan lifestyle, the Merrell MQM Flex 2 Mid GTX hiking boot is made from 100% animal-free materials and stays one of the most durable in its category.
Although it would be too much to consider the MQM Flex 2 Mid GTX a pair of vegan winter boots or mountaineering boots, the GTX membrane adds protection against the cold during spring or autumn hikes, so this model is quite versatile.
Specs
● Weight (pair): “1 lb. 7 oz. (women’s), 1 lb. 9 oz. (men’s)”
● Waterproof: yes
● Upper Material: Mesh and TPU
PROS
CONS
7) Hoka Speedgoat 5
These shoes boast a mesh lining that helps keep your feet cool and a GTX liner that ensures your feet stay dry even in rainy conditions.
The Hoka One One Speedgoat 5 is a high-performance outdoor footwear option that is perfect for veggie trekkers looking for vegan hiking boots that are both cruelty-free and super comfortable.
During our tests, the Hoka One One Speedgoat 5 proved to be incredibly comfortable. The shoe features a wide platform that provides excellent stability and support, but this option is a bit too cushioned for the summer.
Specs
● Weight (pair): “1 lb. 1 oz. (women’s), 1 lb. 4.6 oz. (men’s)”
● Waterproof: no
● Upper Material: Mesh
PROS
CONS
8) Keen NXIS EVO Mid Boot
Due to their high-quality rubber outsole, these vegan hiking boots offer excellent traction on wet surfaces, durability, and are suitable for a variety of outdoor activities, including backpacking.
The Keen NXIS EVO Mid Boot is a part of Keen’s vegan range and is made entirely from vegan-friendly materials.
Compared to other vegan boots on this top, this option is heavier and may take you some time to get accustomed to the extra weight.
But as I wore these vegan hiking boots on a day hike, I noticed that they offer better balance and support, especially on narrower portions of the trail.
Specs
● Weight (pair): “1 lb. 8.9 oz. (women’s), 1 lb. 14.3 oz. (men’s)”
● Waterproof: yes
● Upper Material: Mesh/TPU
PROS
CONS
9) Inov-8 Roclite 345 GTX
The Inov-8 Roclite 345 GTX is a reliable and sturdy pair of vegan hiking boots that offer confident traction on a variety of surfaces.
Thanks to its rigid outsole with 6mm deep lugs that provide excellent grip on loose terrain, and the boot’s rock plate, I was able to hike on rocky trails without getting my toes hurt, so this model is a perfect fit for adventures.
Additionally, the boot’s GTX membrane keeps your feet dry and comfortable when it rains. It also provides breathability, which helps prevent your feet from getting too sweaty during fast and light activities.
Specs
● Weight (pair): 1 lb. 8.16 oz.
● Waterproof: yes
● Upper Material: Synthetic and mesh
PROS
CONS
10) Arc’teryx Acrux TR GTX
Arc’teryx Acrux TR GTX is a top-of-the-line vegan hiking boot designed for mountaineers and climbers seeking high-performance footwear.
The boot features a waterproof Gore-Tex membrane that ensures superior protection against rain, snow, and moisture while allowing for breathability. Moreover, the Acrux TR GTX weighs less than traditional boots, making it an excellent choice for multi-day hikes and extended climbs.
Unfortunately, this vegan boot has thin padding, and it quickly became clear to us as we tested it that it is only a good choice when short hikes are involved.
Specs
● Weight (pair): “1 lb. 0.96 oz. (women’s), 1 lb. 2.88 oz. (men’s)”
● Waterproof: yes
● Upper Material: SuperFabric®
PROS
CONS
Vegan Hiking Boots Buyer’s Guide
Deciding between all the vegan hiking boots on the market can be difficult, so, to ease your job, we created a list of aspects you should consider during the selection.
1. Material
Vegan materials are less stretchy than leather or suede, so for improved comfort, you should consider models that combine mesh with the microfiber of TPU.
The Merrell Moab Speed GTX on our top offers an excellent combination of resistance and breathability, being the right pair for committed hikers.
2. Performance
If you plan on doing some high-altitude mountaineering, you need a pair of vegan hiking boots that combine a good grip with ankle protection and flexibility.
The best vegan hiking boots in this category are the Salomon Outline Mid, which work on any surface and have an excellent waterproof membrane.
3. Comfort
Good cushioning is essential in vegan boots if you are planning on going on long hikes, so we recommend a model with a well-padded sole, like the Salomon Outline Mid.
4. Fit
A good pair of vegetarian shoes should have an efficient lacing method and enough room in the toe box so your toes can move comfortably.
You will find all these and more in the Altra Lone Peak 7 model.
5. Weight
While lightweight vegan products will give you a speed boost on the trail, usually, they come with less padding.
We recommend choosing a heavier model like the La Sportiva Ultra Raptor II Mid GTX to make sure you don’t sacrifice comfort.
6. Tread
A high-quality thread like the one found in La Sportiva Ultra Raptor II Mid GTX is crucial for ensuring that the boot can withstand the rigors of hiking and provide the necessary protection for your feet.
More than that, we learned they can be used also as mountaineering boots.
7. Ventilation
Good ventilation is important in vegetarian shoes because it helps prevent blisters, athlete’s foot, and other foot problems caused by excessive moisture build-up.
With its breathable mesh upper and medium padding, the Merrell Moab Speed GTX is the best choice on our top when it comes to ventilation.
Comparison Table
| BOOT | PRICE | WATERPROOF | WEIGHT |
|---|---|---|---|
| La Sportiva Ultra Raptor II Mid GTX | $199 REI» $199 Backcountry» Check on Amazon» | Yes, Gore-Tex | 1 lb. 7 oz. |
| The North Face VECTIV | $165 REI» $165 Backcountry» Check on Amazon» | Yes, Futurelight | 1 lb. 4.8 oz. |
| Salomon OUTline Mid GTX | Check on Amazon» | Yes, Gore-Tex | 1 lb. 13.6 oz. |
| Merrell Moab Speed Mid GTX | $170 REI» Check on Amazon» | Yes, Gore-Tex | 1 lb. 8 oz. |
| Altra Lone Peak 7 | $150 REI» $150 Backcountry» Check on Amazon» | No | 1 lb. 2.4 oz. |
| Hoka One One Speedgoat 5 | $155 REI» $155 Backcountry» Check on Amazon» | No | 1 lb. 1 oz. |
| Keen NXIS EVO Mid Boot | $190 REI» $190 Backcountry» Check on Amazon» | Yes, Keen.DRY | 1 lb. 14.3 oz. |
| Inov-8 Roclite 345 GTX | $190 REI» Check on Amazon» | Yes, Gore-Tex | 1 lb. 8.2 oz. |
| Arc’teryx Acrux TR GTX | Check on website» | Yes, Gore-Tex | 1 lb. 2.88 oz. |
What Else Did We Consider When Choosing Vegan Hiking Boots
We know that it isn’t always easy to find comfortable hiking boots for women or men who are vegan and can match your expectations to the fullest. That’s why we take into account as many factors as possible when making our selection.
Since not every hiker has the same experience with the same model, we consider feedback from as many users as possible to provide more reliable information.
We also recommend only models produced by reliable brands that have realistic shipping costs and timeframes.
Are Vegan Hiking Boots 100% Animal-Free?
Vegan hiking boots are marketed as being animal-free, but not all brands are necessarily 100% animal-free. Some may use adhesives or materials containing animal products or derivatives.
To ensure you only buy vegan-friendly options, every time you hit the vegan store or shop online make sure to check the label and research the brand’s manufacturing processes. Look for certifications from organizations like PETA or the Vegan Society [1] [2].
Do Vegan Hiking Boots Require Special Care?
Vegan hiking boots require special care, just like any other type of hiking boots. However, the care and maintenance of vegan hiking boots may differ slightly from traditional non-vegan boots.
Vegan hiking boots are typically made from synthetic materials, such as polyester, nylon, or microfiber.
These materials are designed to mimic the look and feel of leather but they have different properties and care requirements.
To make sure your vegan boots and shoes maintain their performance, you should clean them regularly and dry them after every walk in rainy weather. Also, avoid using any harsh chemicals that may ruin the upper material.
Our #1 Pick
La Sportiva Ultra Raptor II Mid GTX
Of all the vegan boots we tested, La Sportiva Ultra Raptor II Mid GTX performed the best according to my standards.
Although this model ran a bit narrow, it was nothing I couldn’t solve by sizing up. Plus, all the materials in it are cruelty-free, and most are eco-friendly, which comes as a double bonus for any hiker who is trying to avoid animal-based products.
The aggressive pattern of the outsole combined with the excellent cushioning and reliable lacing made this boot the best vegan option, extremely supportive even when I climbed steep surfaces.
FAQs
To determine whether a shoe is vegan, check its label. If it mentions other materials rather than leather and is followed by the interwoven laces for textiles and the diamond for other non-animal materials, it’s likely to be vegan; however, if it has a “hide-like” symbol or a symbol with a small diamond inside it, it may contain leather or coated leather.
Vegan hiking shoes may not stretch as much as leather shoes, but some materials like microfiber can have similar flexibility. You can try to obtain a more comfortable fit by wearing them with thick socks around the house, but you shouldn’t try to stretch faux leather too much, as there is a risk of it cracking.
Gore-Tex itself is a synthetic material and therefore is vegan. However, some products that incorporate Gore-Tex may use animal-based glues to attach the membrane, so it’s best to double-check.
Yes, Salomon makes several shoe models that are vegan-friendly. Some of the most popular of their models that don’t include animal products are the Salomon Outline Mid Gore-Tex and Salomon Speedcross 5.
Vegan hiking boots can be just as durable as traditional leather hiking boots thanks to the use of tough synthetic materials. Usually, they are made with recycled rubber, nylon, polyester, and synthetic leather substitutes that increase their resistance to tear and wear. However, the quality of their build is also an important factor you should consider.
Many vegan boots can be recycled because they are made from synthetic materials like polyester and nylon. However, if you opt for vegan leather, it’s important to know that this material is not recyclable.
