Ultimate Guide to the Best Hemp Shoes

To move away from fast fashion and towards ethical and sustainable fashion, means you must think twice before you support or buy a brand. We want to look good, but at the same time leave a smaller environmental impact. Organic hemp shoes are not only breathable, natural vegan shoes, but also leaves a small carbon footprint.

Hemp shoes are eco friendly, breathable, durable and becomes softer with wear, so breaks in well when it comes to footwear. Although many organic hemp shoes still tend to be more casual styles, designers are increasingly using the sustainable fiber for elegant shoes as well.

Why choose Hemp for Footwear?

Hemp has many characteristic that make it ideal for use in footwear. Vegan hemp shoes

  • The hemp plant is sustainable and grows easily without the use of any pesticide, herbicide, fungicides or other harmful chemicals.
  • Hemp dries quickly and doesn’t rot.
  • It is mostly organic due to the way that it is grown and produced.
  • Hemp is hypoallergenic, so will not irritate your skin.
  • Hemp is thermo regulating, so your feet will not sweat.
  • The natural anti-bacterial properties of hemp means that it does not hang on to odors like many synthetic materials. It makes it an ideal material to use in footwear.
  • Hemp fibers are extremely strong, making it durable when used in footwear.
  • Because hemp is a natural fiber, it will eventually decompose, therefore leaving a very small carbon footprint compared with synthetic vegan leather.
  • Hemp uses three times less water than cotton to be cultivated, and has a minimal impact on the soil.

If you are wondering are hemp shoes waterproof? Some of the brands below, like 8000 Kicks, do make waterproof hemp shoes. A waterproof spray or wax can be applied to make the hemp shoes waterproof. Explore more plastic free and eco vegan shoes in this post.

1. Rawganique

Founded in 1997 by Klaus Wallner and Thamm Hamikorn on Denman Island, where they have an off-the-grid homestead. The Rawganique range includes footwear, clothing, bath and bed linen and home products and manufacturing takes place in the USA, Canada and Europe.

There are more than a thousand eco friendly and vegan products made from organic cotton, linen and hemp, in the collection. Plastic free Vegan shoes

They grow, spin, weave, knit and sew everything to be truly pure and organic, and even organically grow all their food as well. Rawganique makes footwear for men, women and unisex styles. Footwear is leather free and sustainably made from hemp that is organically grown in Europe, with soles made from hand cut natural rubber.

Their range is completely chemical free, making it specially suitable for people that are sensitive to chemicals or are opposed to chemicals in fabrics and homes. Perfect if you a sensitive skin and suffer from eczema, dermatitis, psoriasis, tinea versicolor or have had chemotherapy. Free of formaldehyde, dioxin, caustic acids, fire retardants, chemicals to make fabrics wrinkle free or any other toxic chemicals. The products are a hundred percent ethical and not produced in a sweatshop.

Handcrafted shoes include unisex hemp moccasins, sandals made with a hundred percent European hemp and natural rubber soles, providing you with one of the best hemp shoes. A natural wax can be applied to make the hemp shoes waterproof and stain proof.

Features of Rawganique Hemp Shoes 

Features:

  • Vegan friendly and the natural vegan shoes are free of leather. Vegan hemp sandals
  • Made of Organic cotton, linen and hemp.
  • Canvas is 100% natural plant fiber, so animal friendly.
  • Super breathable so say goodbye to smelly feet.
  • Foot bed lining and shoe upper is 100% hemp
  • Hemp fiber wicks away moisture, keeping feet dry and cool
  • Hand made by long term shoe artisans at Rawganique Atelier in Europe, so no sweatshop production.
  • 100% hemp shoe laces
  • Natural is unbleached and free of dyes.
  • Free of elastic
  • Hypoallergenic
  • All of their products are free from any chemicals like PFAS
  • Biodegradable eco friendly dyes and many are free of glues
  • 100% natural rubber soles.
  • The organic hemp shoes are not waterproof, but many customers have reported success with applying natural oils and waxes to their hemp shoes and bags to make them water-repellent.

Care: Not machine washable. Spot clean with wet brush as needed. Let dry naturally after every use or cleaning. Dark colors may transmit to socks when wet or moist.

The footwear can be used in rainy climates like the UK, Seattle and Vancouver, but remember they are not rain boots. You can give the shoes an extra layer of protection by rubbing vegan potato wax or natural beeswax on the shoes. To melt the wax, use high heat and blow dry the area to melt the wax.

They reveal the country of origin of all their fibers and products on the labels and this is where you can get your pair of Rawganique hemp shoes at the best price.

2. Vivobarefoot

Vivobarefoot is a family owned British brand that produce minimalist shoes.

Vivobarefoot hemp vegan friendly boot

They normally use recycled plastic and bio-based materials, and have recently added hemp to the materials that they use for uppers. The

Gobi III eco desert boot is totally vegan friendly with no animal products incorporated. The construction consist of the following components:

  • Upper is made from a 100% hemp canvas and has a rubberized print on the upper to give it added water resistance.
  • Lining is a 100% recycled cotton, reinforced with recycled PET microfiber.
  • It has a removable cork insole.
  • The boot is constructed on one of their thinnest barefoot soles and has an EVA of 3 mm bio-based Bloom foam.
  • Outsole is light, durable, flexible and grippy, making it perfect to pack for traveling and daily use.

You can read more about Vivobarefoot (they are the fifth brand in the post) and Bloom algae foam in this post on sneakers made from recycled plastic. This is where you can get your pair of vegan Gobi III boots at the best price.

3. Astral

Philip Curry started Astral in 2002 with the focus on producing products in the least toxic way and with the smallest impact possible on nature. They are based in Ashville, USA and production started in a small facility in Ashville, but they are now also using small, ethical facilities in India and China.

Astral footwear is versatile, durable, non-slip and is another natural vegan shoe. It will withstand the demands of trailing or water hiking, and also have casual shoes, camp shoes or sneakers and boots for everyday use. Hemp shoes are intended to be used for casual and travel and is perfect as deck shoes, with sneakers made of a combination of hemp and recycled polyester. Astral vegan hemp shoes

The hemp shoes are made up as follows:

  • Upper: 77% hemp with 23% recycled polyester.
  • Polygiene treated insoles to eliminate odors.
  • Midsole is 7 mm thick EVA foam
  • G-Rubber outer soles are Flex Grip non-marking, super flexible, draining, razor siped and has 3 mm lugs. It is made with their sticky, high abrasion G-15 compound. Shoes for outdoor activities have heavy-duty 5 mm lugs for grip.

Footbeds are basically level, with medium arch support. Better foothold and control is achieved with a tapered instep and heel area. The forefoot is wide so that your toes and foot can spread out for better stability.

They also do life jackets for men, women, kids and even dogs. Shoes are for men, women and kids and all their footwear is vegan friendly. There is a big range of Astral hemp footwear available and this is where you can get them at the best price.

4. Sanuk

Sanuk was founded by Jeff Kelley in 1997 with the goal of making people smile and to pass it on. The word Sanuk actually means “fun” in Thai. The range of footwear is for men, women and kids and include sneakers, Sanuk vegan hemp shoescanvas slip-ons, flip flop sandals, shoes and boots. Hemp has recently been added to their range of materials that are used and hemp shoes are made up as follows:

  • Upper: 54% hemp, 43% recycled polyester and 3% spandex with a custom poncho lining.
  • Premium molded EVA foot bed with an antimicrobial additive to reduce bacteria that causes odors.
  • Outsole: U rubber sponge.

Sanuk hemp shoes can be washed in the washing machine on a cold cycle, but never put them in the tumble drier.

If the item is described as vegetarian, then the textile contains wool, whereas the natural vegan shoes are completely free of any animal products, including the glues.

Sanuk has partnered with the Surfrider Foundation, an environmental non-profit organization, who is dedicated to the protection and enjoyment of our beaches, waves and oceans. Explore the options and prices for Sanuk footwear here.

5. Risorse Future

Risorse Future is an Italian eco conscious brand that is based in Monte Urano, in the Marche area of Italy. They make vegan footwear, including hemp boots and high top sneakers. The shoes are light, durable and comfortable and they focus on innovative materials.

They first started producing footwear in 1955 and at the end of 2010, they set up a project for eco sustainable shoes. This led to the start of using vegetable materials, mainly hemp and cotton, in the range, producing some of the best hemp shoes that are available.

Craftsmen skillfully hand make the shoes and the entire supply chain is located in the area. So local craftspeople and suppliers are benefiting and there is no unnecessary transportation costs. The low scout sneaker and Deserto Vegan boots are made with these materials: Risorse Future vegan hemp footwear

  • Upper: the outer is 100% hemp and lined with cotton, making it even more comfortable and warmer. They use unbleached cotton, so no chemicals are used and natural tones are kept.
  • Inner lining is cotton.
  • Unbleached cotton shoelaces.
  • Removable anatomic insole ensures uniform weight distribution and supports the entire foot sole. The insole has aloe vera and activated carbon, which has anti-bacterial properties and absorbs moisture.
  • Soles are attached with two techniques:
    • classical seam reinforced with cotton and
    • bonded with water based glue.
  • Outer soles in natural rubber.

Chemical Free Risorse Hemp Shoes 

REACH certified coloring is used, meaning it is completely free of chemical substances, so no formaldehyde, asbestos, phthalates, lead, chrome or hexachrome.

They are Peta approved vegan. If you are going to be using your Risorse Future shoes in rainy conditions, then it is advisable to spray a waterproof coating on them. Stains on organic hemp shoes can be brushed with a soft brush that has been dipped in water and a mild soap. Let the shoes dry in the shade.

Apart from hemp, other vegan footwear options are made with microfiber. They also do accessories like belts and bags. Risorse Future hemp footwear is available at the best prices here.

6. Virblatt

At Virblatt you will find alternative clothing for men and women, combining European comfort with Oriental tradition. Their range of hemp garments include harem and Aladdin pants and a selection of footwear.

They grow their own hemp in Thailand, working closely with the Hmong tribe, an ethic minority. They follow the strict textile regulations of the country to produce hemp that is sustainable and fairer on the people and the planet. The Hmong tribe has been producing hemp fabric and clothing for many generations and create stunning artisanal textiles. Virblatt vegan hemp espadrilles

Traditional methods of cultivation and harvesting are used. The hemp is hand spun and woven on a wooden loom, according to ancient customs. These are the materials used:

  • The upper is 100% hemp
  • They have soft padded insoles and
  • natural rubber soles, decorated with quality raffia.

Virblatt produces an extensive range of hemp clothing and footwear. They work as a family and support small and micro-sized businesses to produce ethical and sustainable products. The selection for footwear includes wedge heels, ballerina flats, espadrilles and hemp shoes for any outfit or occasion.

Hemp espadrilles and shoes are handmade and individually tailored in Northern Thailand from locally grown natural hemp. Get your unique pair of Virblatt espadrilles and organic hemp shoes here.

Virblatt offers an upcycling program that they sell online or at local marketss. They have teamed up with Aline from PROUGS ReThink who will upcycle and transform any old Virblatt clothing or other brands, into trendy new pieces.

7. 8000 Kicks (originally Dopekicks)

Dopekicks was conceptualized in October 2018 and after suppliers were sourced, prototypes were made and funding was obtained from Kickstarter. The first sneakers were shipped eleven months later in September 2019.

They make eco friendly hemp sneakers that are completely waterproof. They use specially processed hemp that makes them waterproof and the waterproofing is achieved by adding a special coating layer during hemp manufacturing. It protects the hemp from stains and liquids and makes it easy to clean. So if you are wondering are hemp shoes waterproof?  Yes, they are, if you get them from Rawganique. Dopekicks vegan hemp sneakers

The natural vegan shoes are ethically made in Portugal using these materials:

  • Upper: waterproof hemp
  • A special waterproof insulating membrane, adds further waterproofing
  • Cork insoles create a natural cushioned surface which will not deform. Cork is anti-microbial, anti-fungul and temperature regulating to give you healthy feet year long.
  • Recycled rubber soles – they have partnered with Portuguese out sole manufacturers to use old shoes to create upcycled soles. Recycled soles are flexible and durable and of course is helping the environment. The out soles are strategically carved to get maximum grip.

Dopekicks sneakers are designed for urban explorers and outdoor use. If they do get dirty or covered in mud, just rinse them clean with water. The name was changed to 8000 Kicks during lockdown 2020, to reflect when hemp was first used in textiles and clothing.

8. Bohempia

Thomas Rohal founded Bohempia in 2015 with the mission to bring hemp back to mainstream use. They start with the raw hemp fiber and spin it, before knitting, weaving and dyeing the hemp fabric. They have a studio in Prague where they design and make prototypes. Bohempia vegan hemp shoes

Their organic hemp shoes are certified Peta vegan and the espadrilles, sneakers and shoes use these materials:

  • Upper: 100% hemp with a natural cotton lining to increase breathability.
  • Insoles: anatomically molded polyurethane with shock absorbing heel supports.
  • The top has double stitching for increased strength.
  • Double foxing for durability and flexibility
  • Sole is vulcanized natural rubber with a reduced profile and is non-slip.

Bohempia products are ethically made in small workshops in the European Union, using ecologically grown EU hemp. The range is for men and women and the designs are simple and minimalist. They also do a range of clothing and accessories.

Hemp is biodegradable and an environmentally friendly fiber that is a sustainable option. It will leave you and your feet feeling good. Hemp canvas is washable and durable and gets softer with age and wear.

Explore the range of hemp shoes available on Amazon here.

You are sure to find your ultimate pair of natural vegan shoes in this guide to the best hemp shoes, but if you have any questions or suggestions about organic hemp shoes, please leave them below and I will get back to you.

 

 

24 thoughts on “Ultimate Guide to the Best Hemp Shoes”

  1. Wow hemp leads to anything, even shoes! I’ve never worn hemps shoes but I remember that a friend of mine offered me a dress made of hemp. And honestly it was softer than I expected! Hemp is a cool alternative to leather especially if you are sensitive to the animal condition. I especially liked Bohempia and Virblatt because these are more my taste. THanks for sharing!

    Reply
    • Hemp is a very versatile natural fiber and is great to wear. I have several hemp garments and they just get softer with each wash. Hemp shoes are one of the best plastic free vegan options for footwear, and great to wear. 

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  2. im ver happy to see the hemp fabrics product range and eological point of view it is very very vital role to save the earth

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  3. Wow! Who would have known that hemp can really be employed to making shoes and to get them up and running. This is really some very great overview and the perfect guide to getting them shoes. Personally, I feel that a lot more could be done to ensure that we can make them more better and perfect. However, not taking anything away from what I have read here. Thanks for sharing

    Reply
    • Hemp is a versatile textile that can be used for many products, including shoes and clothes. It is sustainable and eco friendly and is also vegan friendly, so an awesome choice for footwear. 

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  4. I am actually familiar with Hemp shoes but when i wear them I didn’t actually think it has any advantages as you stated, just saw it as a regular shoe made of different clothing. Thanks for sharing this as i have been encouraged to invest more in them. I wanted to confirm, There are some canvas that looks similar to the pictures posted, is there a possibility of getting canvass with the same organic material?

    Reply
    • Hi there, What you describe as canvas, could be hemp, but you also get organic cotton that is waxed to make it waterproof and there are linen shoes too, all have a canvas look. Look at the product labels and descriptions when you buy shoes and garments, and it should tell you the materials that were used. Hope this helps you. 

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  5. I must admit when I think of ways to lessen our environmental  impact on the planet, I don’t think immediately of shoes. I read an article recently however about hemp shoes, and it caught my interest. It led me to your site, and now I’m here I am pleasantly surprised at how fashionable these shoes are. I would be very happy to be seen in these styles so it appears to be a no brainer. By explaining what chemicals are not in these shoes makes me realise how many environmentally damaging materials there are in the shoes most of us wear. Thanks for sharing this informative post.

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    • You are welcome Ray and it is good to know that more brands are using sustainable materials and practices and avoid using harmful chemicals.

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  6. It’s very correct to say that for one to move away from fast fashion and towards ethical and sustainable fashion, means you must think twice before you support or buy a brand… Hemp does have so many advantages.

    Just as you’ve mentioned hemp shoes are eco friendly, they are breathable also durable and becomes softer with wear, so breaks in well when it comes to footwear. I love hemp shoes. I think the Rawganique hemp shoes are the most common types I have seen, I actually have some of those. 

    Reply
    • Hi there, Rawganique has got a very big range and I love that everything they grow is organic, even their vegetables. Hemp is sustainable and it is great to see so many brands that are now making organic hemp shoes. Liné

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  7. Hello there,  thanks for this very detailed and informative post on “ultimate guide to the best hemp shoes” I was discussing with my friend on how I needed to get some new hemp shoes and he sent me your site and I’m really impressed by what I am seeing here as you’ve given me so many option to choose from. I like hemp shoes basically because of their comfortability and simple designs.

    Reply
    • Hi there, Hemp shoes are awesome and I hope you will find your pair of best hemp shoes amongst these brands, but do let me know if you need guidance. All the best, Liné

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  8. Those hemp shoes look really great! I like the sandals and the ballerina flats. Hemp is indeed a wonderful material, and I wish that companies would utilize it more. I am glad that it is beginning to be more available now. In general, I always wear sandals, I don’t like closed shoes, but if hemp shoes are more breathable, I could give closed shoes a try again. 

    Rawganique has some beautiful designs. Is all hemp for clothing organically grown?

    The waxing with natural oil is new to me. I did not know that you could impermeate your hemp shoes like that, or at least give them some protection in the rain. Although I live in a desert area, we have rain season here between July and November, the rest of the months it is dry, so these shoes would be perfect for this climate.

    Reply
    • Hi Christine, Hemp is naturally resistant to insects and bacteria, so no pesticides, insecticides, herbacides or GMO modified seeds are used, which makes it naturally organic. 

      Waxing is also used on jackets, so it is great to apply the same idea to shoes. There are also some sprays available to protect not only organic hemp shoes, but also other footwear, including natural vegan shoes. 

      Hope this helps you, Liné

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  9. Very interesting guide about Hemp shoes and I have to admit that I had not heard of these material type shoes.  They are certainly very nice.  I like that you have offered links to the various companies that sell them thank you.

    You have mentioned the durability of the shoes, I would be interested to know the comfort of the shoes, particularly for someone who does a lot of walking.  Thank you.

    Reply
    • Hi Jo, Hemp shoes are very durable as hemp gets stronger and softer with use. They are breathable, so they will not make your feet smell. Most of the brands featured use rubber soles and padded insoles, which means you can spend hours walking without your feet suffering at the end of the day. I hope this helps you out. All the best, Liné

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  10. It is a very comfortable and can use for long period. Variety designs and there are so many colurs to choose. It’s cool for use anytime and enywhere.
    It is really worth buying. Long use.
    Thanks a lot.

    Reply
    • Hi there, I fully agree with you that organic hemp shoes are well worth buying. They are comfortable, durable and one of the best options for natural vegan shoes. All the best, Liné

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  11. Our environment is in dire need of saving. We, humans, are exhausting the natural resources, which is a very concerning thing. In times like these, articles like this one seem to be the saving grace for humanity. This article is a brilliant piece of work. Sustainable shoes made from a plant, genius idea. Not only is this an environmentally friendly option, but looks so fashionable too. I had no idea that there are so many brands that make Hemp shoes. The author has not only listed these brands but has even discussed all the features of the shoes made by them. I am so impressed with this article. thank you.

    Reply
    • Hi there, Hemp is a great plant with so many uses, and to make organic hemp shoes, is one of the awesome items. It is good to see that there are more brands that are using hemp to make natural vegan shoes as well. All the best, Liné 

      Reply

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