Top 5 Vegan & Eco-Friendly Unisex Sneakers

 

What could be more logical for today's fashion than stylish, vegan, and unisex sneakers? New generations are shaking up dress codes: only 44% of young Gen Z limit their purchases to "men's" or "women's" sections, compared to 54% of Gen Y. The trend is towards genderless fashion accessible to everyone, and sneakers are perfectly suited for it. Simultaneously, the rise of ecological materials and veganism has made it possible to create animal-leather-free shoes that are just as desirable. The result: we're seeing more and more ethical gender-neutral (unisex) sneakers emerging that combine a timeless retro look, just like any other brand, with an added commitment to sustainability.

This comprehensive guide answers key questions for eco-conscious sneaker lovers: What exactly are unisex sneakers? How do you identify a good vegan pair? Which labels and materials should you prioritize? And most importantly, which brands are worth checking out in 2025? Here's our Top 5 best unisex sneaker brands right now, each featuring an iconic style example. These committed brands, often pioneers, prove that you can have style while respecting the planet – all without gender distinction. Get ready to discover innovative sneakers that appeal equally to women and men, vintage-look models, designed cruelty-free and built to last.

Whether you're already a dedicated follower of slow fashion or simply curious to explore new options for your feet, this top 5 will provide concrete answers, key figures, and inspiration. 

 

Table of Contents

• Unisex Fashion: Style Meets Inclusivity
• Vegan Sneakers for Ethical Fashion
  • Sustainable and Innovative Materials
  • Reliable Labels and Responsible Production
• Top 5 Vegan Unisex Sneaker Brands
  • 1. Veja
  • 2. MoEa
  • 3. Minuit sur Terre
  • 4. Mood Walk
  • 5. iné
• Stats & Key Figures
• FAQ
• Conclusion – Embrace Gender-Neutral Sneakers!

 

Unisex Fashion: Style Meets Inclusivity

 

 

Wearing unisex clothing (or gender neutral) has never been more on trend. This "degendered" fashion offers pieces that can be worn by men and women alike, without distinction. Far from being a mere fad, it reflects a societal evolution: 33% of Gen Z believe that sex does not define a person, and major luxury brands like Gucci are launching neutral lines. This inclusivity also allows for more flexibility and comfort. When it comes to sneakers, a unisex sneaker is a shoe designed with a universal fit and mixed sizing. It appeals to all genders, often available in a wide range of sizes (for example, from 36 to 46 at iné) to fit both women and men.

In practice, the trend isn't new if we look at 90s sneakers, and it has returned even more committed than ever in recent years. This democratization is such that the number of brands offering unisex collections jumped by 40% between 2019 and 2023. Unisex fashion thus brings more freedom and breaks down barriers: everyone can express their style without labels. The sneaker, an urban staple par excellence, symbolizes this inclusive philosophy. And when combined with a vegan and ecological approach, it ticks all the boxes for responsible and inclusive fashion that the current generation seeks.

 

Vegan Sneakers for Ethical Fashion

 

Trendy unisex sneakers increasingly also mean vegan and eco-responsible sneakers. Indeed, the new generation of urban consumers isn't satisfied with just a stylish look: they want meaning and ethics. A vegan sneaker is, by definition, a shoe designed without any animal-derived materials – no leather, no suede, no animal glue. This eliminates animal suffering (100% cruelty-free) and avoids impacts related to livestock farming (CO₂, deforestation). But beware, vegan doesn't always rhyme with ecological: some leather imitations are made from petroleum-derived plastic. That's why the best vegan brands combine commitments: materials based on natural and durable components, transparent processes, and ethical production.

 

 

Why choose vegan sneakers? Firstly, for their low environmental impact: animal leather has an enormous ecological cost (polluting farming, tanning with toxic products). Plant-based and recycled alternatives emit significantly less CO₂ on average. At iné, we reduce CO₂ production by three times compared to a pair made from petroleum in China. Ethical sneaker brands are generally manufactured under much better social conditions (certified factories, decent wages) than fast fashion, which is a major plus for buyers concerned about responsible purchases. Finally, regarding style, advancements are such that we obtain plant-based leathers of astonishing quality and truly desirable designs. Proof of this: in 2018, vegan shoes already represented 32% of the US footwear market, compared to only 16% in 2017 – a rapid growth showing public enthusiasm for these alternatives. In short, choosing vegan sneakers today is no longer a compromise: it's combining fashion, ethics, and durability in a single product.

 

Sustainable and Innovative Materials

 

What materials are we talking about for these sneakers next generation? Creativity is certainly on display! Brands are redoubling their ingenuity to find eco-friendly materials that replace leather while offering durability and comfort. For example, you can find:

 

• Plant-based leathers made from fruit waste: grape pomace (used by Minuit sur Terre), corn fiber (iné), apple or cactus residues (MoEa). These innovative materials offer a look and feel similar to leather, without animals. They are often over 50% bio-based and help valorize agricultural waste.

 

• Recycled materials: PET plastic from bottles transformed into faux leather or mesh (used by iné), recycled rubber for soles, ...

 

• Natural fibers: organic cotton or linen for canvases, bamboo fibers for linings, natural cork for some insoles,  from recycled foam (iné), ...

 

These durable materials offer a double advantage: drastically reducing the ecological footprint and adding a touch of originality. What could be cooler than wearing sneakers made from grape or corn, which also boast a modern look? Of course, quality is a central concern: these new materials are tested to ensure their solidity. Proof of this, many vegan brands produce in Portugal, a country renowned for its expertise and strict quality controls (iné, Minuit sur Terre, for example, manufacture their collections there). Ultimately, today's vegan sneakers have nothing to envy classic sneakers: they are stylish, robust, and convey positive values.

 

Reliable Labels and Responsible Production

 

 

To navigate and ensure that a sneaker is truly ethical from A to Z, certain labels and certifications can help:

 

• “PETA-Approved Vegan” Label: Issued by the animal rights organization PETA, it certifies that no animal materials are used.

 

• Social certifications : For example, Fair Wear Foundation or ISO/SEDEX certified factories, guaranteeing good working conditions.

 

• Transparency and traceability: Truly committed brands communicate about their workshops and production costs. For example, iné details the origin of materials and the production location of each model. This transparency is a guarantee of trust and quality.

 

Additionally, rely on the concrete commitments of brands: many go beyond the product itself by supporting environmental causes. These initiatives demonstrate a holistic philosophy. Finally, local or regional production (Portugal, Spain, France) is favored by many brands to limit transportation and ensure better quality control. In short, beyond the pretty vegan logo, look at the overall approach: commitment to employees, sincere investment in an associative cause, ... The brands in our selection excel on these criteria, which is what makes them reliable.

 

Top 5 Vegan Unisex Sneaker Brands

Let's move on to our exclusive selection: here are 5 brands offering the best unisex sneakers on the market, combining retro style and strong commitments. Each brand has its own story and specificities, but they all share one ambition: to make sneakers more sustainable, inclusive, and responsible. Let's discover them without further delay!

 

1. Veja: The "Classic," White, Flat Unisex Sneaker

 

Veja is arguably the most well-known French brand when it comes to eco-responsible sneakers. Founded in 2005, it established itself by proving that a sneaker can be trendy while also being meaningful. Veja has won over the general public with its minimalist and urban-style models (iconic V-10, Esplar, etc.), often spotted on the feet of stars like Emma Watson or Marion Cotillard. In terms of commitment, Veja has always used ecological materials: organic cotton, wild Amazonian rubber, recycled bottles… And as early as 2019, the brand launched a 100% vegan range representing about 30% of its collection. These vegan sneakers are made from C.W.L (Canvas With Linseed: an organic cotton canvas coated with corn oil) which perfectly mimics leather while being 63% bio-based. It is still more known for its vegetable-tanned leather, the process of tanning the skin of its sneakers using plant-based products (tannins) rather than toxic ones. 

Thus, although Veja is not a 100% vegan brand, it deserves its place here for its role as a pioneer in responsible sneakers. Veja has proven to the entire industry that another path is possible – and continues to evolve towards even greater sustainability.

2. MoEa: The Fruity Grunge-Style Unisex Sneaker

 

MoEa (for “Mother Earth”) is a young European brand generating a lot of buzz thanks to its fruit leathers. Its challenge? To manufacture sneakers from corn, grape, apple, pineapple, or cactus waste! Launched in 2021, MoEa has developed five different bio-based materials corresponding to these fruits, each bringing its own texture and story. All these sneakers are PETA Approved Vegan certified and ethically made in Portugal. Style-wise, MoEa offers unisex sneakers with a design that evokes the original fruits and the "grunge" style of the 2000s. 

 

3. Minuit sur Terre: The Fun, Embroidered, and "Blameless" Unisex Sneaker

 

 

Minuit sur Terre was founded in 2017 in Bordeaux by Élodie Nocquet. Minuit sur Terre started with leather-free dress shoes for women, before expanding its offering to unisex sneakers. Its slogan “Sans cuir et sans reproche” (Without leather and without blame) sets the tone: here, no animal materials, and a strong ecological approach. The brand has distinguished itself through original collaborations – for example, a series of sneakers named Chardonnay, Merlot, Rosé… made from wine waste! Indeed, Minuit sur Terre notably uses grape pomace for its uppers (in partnership with an eco-responsible winegrower), cereal residues for linings, and recycled plastic bottles for laces. The result: Virevolte and Orient sneakers with a clean look, sometimes featuring beautiful colorful embroideries!

 

4. Mood Walk: The Custom Message Unisex Sneaker

 

 

Mood Walk is a recent French brand (born in 2020) that's worth checking out, especially if you like to customize your sneakers. Its founder, Bénédicte Guenegan, designed customizable vegan sneakers with committed messages. The concept: white unisex sneakers with a slightly retro design (reminiscent of the 90s) and very comfortable, to which you can add removable straps printed with positive and activist slogans. For example, a "No Planet B" or "Equality" patch that you attach to the laces, to subtly display your convictions. It's playful and unique!

 

5. iné: Unisex Sneakers, Uncompromising, with a Fashionable and Modern Artistic Direction

 

 

iné (with a lowercase "i") is the brand to watch very closely in 2025. This young French, urban, and 100% vegan brand offers colorful unisex sneakers with a distinctive retro style. The story of iné begins with a realization by its founder, Audrey Delanoë: most vegan sneakers on the market were flat and white. Enough said! iné was born from this desire to reconcile everything in a sneaker: a trendy and colorful look, inclusivity, and ethics.

After 5 years of R&D, iné launched its first collection in 2024. Its "Vibes" models feature a design inspired by the 90s (thick sole, discreet side logo, with a varied color palette for year-round wear…) for a look that is both retro and refined. Of course, they are manufactured in Portugal using the renowned next-generation materials: BioVeg, a corn-based material with all components made in Europe. The commitment goes further, as iné strives for transparency and constantly improves its processes. 

Resolutely gender-neutral, iné offers each model from size 36 to 46 to fit everyone with style and comfort. The brand cultivates a sincere and curious tone, positioning itself as resolutely fashionable and committed. After barely a year, iné is already making headlines in media like Canal + and Cosmopolitan, proving that a young independent brand can design products combining commitment, aesthetics, and high standards. If you want to support the most promising French initiative in the sector, hurry to discover the iné gender-neutral sneaker collection: you'll find timelessly designed vegan sneakers, made to last and accompany you everywhere. It's our absolute favorite, naturally!

« Creating a responsible brand is more complex, but it's also more rewarding. And above all: stay true to your vision. Your values will be your strength. » – Audrey Delanoë, founder of iné.

 

Stats & Key Figures

 

• Unisex Fashion Boom: +40% of brands offering unisex collections between 2019 and 2023. Demand for the unisex category increased by 46% during the same period.

 

• Vegan Sneaker Explosion : In 2018, 32% of shoes sold in the United States were vegan, compared to only 16% in 2017. The global vegan footwear market is growing by ~7% annually.

 

• Material Innovations: 850 million tons of grape pomace are produced annually during harvests, now reusable as plant-based leather (Vegea). Alternatives also exist based on corn, apple, cactus… reducing CO₂ impact by up to -89%.

 

• Recycling & Upcycling: Each pair of sneakers results from recycling, particularly plastic waste, which helps clean and protect our territories, especially marine environments. Upcycling previously discarded materials allows for an overall reduction of waste on the planet.

 

• Durability & Comfort: 8 out of 10 consumers believe that the vegan sneakers they purchased are as comfortable and high-quality as leather models (according to an internal iné survey 2025). Most brands now offer a "satisfaction or money-back" guarantee on quality.

 

FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions

 

What exactly is a “unisex” sneaker ?

A unisex sneaker is a model designed to suit both women and men. There's no marked "gendered" design difference: colors, shape, and style are conceived to be universal. These are generally shoes available in a wide range of sizes (e.g., from 36 to 46). In short, "unisex" or "gender-neutral" means the pair knows no gender barrier – everyone can wear it freely according to their style.

 

How to verify if sneakers are truly vegan ?

Several ways: first, the composition: vegan sneakers use no leather, no suede, and no animal-derived glues. Check for labels like PETA-Approved Vegan which certifies the total absence of animal materials. You can also check the brand's website: serious brands clearly list materials (organic cotton, polyurethane, plant fibers, etc.) and specify if the model is vegan. Finally, prioritize ethical boutiques or official websites: they often categorize "vegan sneakers" to simplify your task. In case of doubt, don't hesitate to contact the brand's customer service.

 

Are vegan sneakers as durable and robust ?

Yes ! Alternative materials have greatly progressed. Plant-based "leathers" made from corn, grape, or other sources are very wear-resistant – sometimes even more so than animal leather because they are less susceptible to water, for example. Many brands conduct extensive quality tests (tensile, flexion) to guarantee robustness. The construction of vegan sneakers is often similar to that of other sneakers (same rubber soles, same stitching techniques). Furthermore, ethical brands produce in small series, with more attention, which often results in superior quality compared to fast fashion. With basic care (gentle cleaning, air drying), your vegan sneakers will last as long as your usual sneakers.

 

How to care for and clean vegan sneakers ?

It's simple: no washing machine (as with all sneakers). Hand care is recommended. First, remove laces and insoles if possible. Then, use a soft brush or a damp cloth with a little natural soap (e.g., Marseille soap) to gently rub the faux-leather or canvas surface. Rinse with a clean damp cloth, then let air dry, away from direct sunlight. Vegan sneakers made from plant-based or recycled materials naturally don't require polishing. For odors, sprinkle baking soda inside and let it sit overnight before shaking it out. By following these steps, your sneakers will stay vibrant and fresh.

 

Why are eco-responsible sneakers often more expensive ?

This slightly higher price is explained by several factors: firstly, innovative materials, which are more expensive to produce than standard leather (these eco-materials are manufactured in smaller quantities, thus without immediate economies of scale). Secondly, ethical production: properly paying workers in Portugal or Spain costs more than manufacturing in low-cost Asian factories. The same applies to quality control and transparency: these brands invest to do things right (tests, certifications). Finally, they often produce in limited quantities, without overstock or sales, thus without artificially suppressing prices. Think of it as an investment: you're paying the fair value for a durable product, made under good conditions, rather than funding excessive marketing or profit margins. In return, you get high-quality, unique sneakers aligned with your values, which will last a long time.

 

Conclusion – Embrace Gender-Neutral Sneakers!

 

As we've explored these 5 unisex sneaker brands, one thing is clear: fashion is evolving in the right direction. Gone are the days when you had to choose between style and ethics, comfort and convictions: the new wave of vegan sneakers offers all of this at once. Bold designers are reinventing the sneaker by using the best that nature and recycling have to offer, while celebrating inclusivity. The result is pairs that tell a story – that of a more sustainable, more humane, and more open fashion. Whether we're talking about recycled tire soles, grape-based uppers, or message patches, every detail counts and makes sense.

These unisex sneakers perfectly embody the spirit of our generation: committed yet casual, conscious yet optimistic. Both men and women can wear them proudly, as they convey positive values without sacrificing style. So, why not take the plunge? Whether your style is streetwear, minimalist, or chic, you'll find the perfect fit among these innovative brands. Don't hesitate to explore their collections in more detail – and make a concrete gesture towards responsible fashion by embracing vegan sneakers yourself.

At iné, we firmly believe that the fashion of tomorrow will be inclusive and ecological, or it won't be at all. But we especially think it's up to businesses to make meaningful decisions. Our motto: "iné makes the right choices so you don't have to". It's time to do things differently, step by step, and what better than a beautiful pair of sneakers to move in the right direction?

 

Discover our Urban, Unisex, and Ethical Collection: Vibes

 

For any questions, suggestions, or just to say hello, contact us at contact@ine.fr – it will be a pleasure to chat with you!

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