Living in the northeast United States, a good pair of boots are an essential part of my winter wardrobe. I want them to look good, stand up to snow and slush, and be completely vegan-friendly.
It was easy to switch out a lot of my wardrobe when I first went vegan. However, a pair of quality winter boots remained the toughest switch. It seemed like nearly every pair I found had some kind of animal product in it. What is the point of “leather trim” anyway?
It was a frustrating process. It seemed like I could either pick warm, quality winter boots, or vegan, animal-friendly winter boots – but not both.
That experience was the inspiration behind this guide. Let no new (or seasoned) vegan stand in the aisle of an REI again, trying to decipher a materials list. Finding animal-friendly boots doesn’t have to be this hard.
This guide will provide a full overview of things to look for in winter boots, as well as our favorite men’s and women’s styles.
Quick NavigationVegan Winter Boots for WomenVegan Winter Boots for MenShopping for Vegan-Friendly Winter BootsStances on Faux Animal ProductsCruelty-Free Snow Boots
Vegan Winter Boots for Women
Maybe you’re looking for vegan winter boots, but don’t want to spend an eternity poring over labels and emailing companies.
Time is precious! To make sure you’ve got your vegan-friendly boots in time for the next cold snap, simply read through our favorite products below.
We’ve divided our top picks into men’s and women’s styles and noted the type of customer each option is best for.
Happy shopping!
DailyShoes Women’s Vegan Hiking Boot
Best for Outdoor Adventurers
For some people, the arrival of winter means months of staying cooped up inside. However, with these boots from DailyShoes, you can get your weekend hike in no matter how much snow is on the ground!
The 100% vegan hiking boots are made from water-resistant cloth, vegan leather, and faux fur, for a fashionable, functional boot. The boots come up to about mid-calf, with high-traction rubber soles to prevent slipping and scrambling.
You can take these boots from the trail to brunch – the stylish design and faux-fur trim make them just as great for running errands as hitting the trail. With five gorgeous neutrals, they’ll be sure to match any outfit.
Most reviewers note these boots run a little big. This will likely keep enough room for any thick socks or liners, but err on the smaller side when choosing your size.
What We Like
These boots are great quality for the price! They’ll allow you to hike and walk through snow all season long, without having to fork over a season’s pay. The shoes also look very stylish, so you can just as easily wear them out on errands as on your hike.
What We Didn’t Like
It’s important to remember these cruelty free winter boots are water resistant, not waterproof. They’ll provide you with protection from winter weather, but don’t expect to come out of a puddle with dry toes. If you live in a wet area or slosh through a lot of streams, either add a waterproof coating to these boots or opt for completely waterproof boots.
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DAWGS Women’s Microfiber Boots
Best for ex-UGG Lovers
I’m not sure when exactly it happened, but at some point, UGG-style boots became a cold-weather staple for women everywhere.
Luckily, giving up shearling doesn’t mean you need to forego Australian-style cozy boots! Simply opt for DAWGS Microfiber Boots instead.
These cozy boots are built for comfort and warmth. The shoes have a memory foam insole and use a vegan shearling alternative liner. This provides the same snuggly texture, without the cruelty and suffering of real shearling. It also features a slip-resistant rubber sole, so you can wear them out and about without a fear of falling.
The round toe and 9-inch shaft mean these boots will fit a variety of foot and calf sizes. These boots are available in women’s sizes 5-11, and come in seven colors, including blue and purple.
What We Like
Reviewers rave about the comfort and coziness of these boots. They’re super warm, which makes them ideal for wearing around the house or taking out with friends. They’re also very lightweight, so they don’t feel as heavy as normal winter boots.
What We Didn’t Like
Like the originals, these vegan uggs aren’t meant for snowy or slushy conditions. Wet weather will ruin the finish and coloring of these shoes, so keep them inside during wet weather.
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Jambu Women’s Artic-Vegan Snowboot
Best for Fashionistas
These cruelty-free boots smash the stereotype that winter boots are bulky and unattractive. The Artic-Vegan snow boots from Jambu are beautiful shoes that you can feel proud to wear out on the town.
These are tall boots with faux leather and faux shearling trim. They look cozy and elegant, while also being practical. A memory foam insole cradles your foot throughout all-day wear, and there is a full side zipper, so it’s easy to get these on and off.
The faux-leather material is water resistant, to protect your feet from a reasonable amount of winter snow and slush. The rubber sole provides enough traction to keep you from slipping on wet or icy surfaces.
Even the packaging is vegan-friendly, in that it uses recycled, reusable materials. That way, your purchase is friendly to the planet, as well as to animals. These boots come in three beautiful colors: tobacco, dark brown, and black.
What We Like
The Artic-Vegan boots are perfect for people in very cold climates. In addition to looking gorgeous, purchasers love how warm and cozy they are. Even users in cold cities like Chicago have great things to say about them.
What We Didn’t Like
These boots tend to be a little stiff upon arrival. Plan to spend some time breaking them in before walking around for a full day in them. If you don’t break them in, it could lead to blisters and sore feet.
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Patagonia Women’s Activist Puff High Waterproof Insulated Boot
Best for City Slickers
Living in the city, you do a lot of walking, regardless of the weather outside. City folks need a winter boot that will keep feet dry but is lightweight and comfortable to walk around in. The Activist Puff boot from Patagonia is the perfect solution.
These vegan snow boots are made with a nylon upper that’s completely waterproof, so it’s perfect for snowy, slushy city streets and sidewalks. Synthetic suede provides durability, and the mesh tongue wicks moisture to keep feet dry.
The sole is perfect for city streets, too. It’s a recycled rubber with aggressive lugs to keep a stable footing in and out of the city. The boots reach just above the ankle and are super lightweight so that they won’t weigh you down during your errands.
The boots are available in women’s sizes 5-11 and come in three colors. While they’re on the expensive end of the spectrum, you’re paying for quality when it comes to these boots.
What We Like
These boots are a perfect blend of functions. They keep feet warm and dry, but are lightweight enough to wear on long urban walks and hikes through the woods. Purchasers noted these boots fit wide feet well, which can be hard to find.
What We Didn’t Like
While the quality is superior, the price of these boots may simply make them unaffordable for those on tighter budgets. People who don’t have upwards of a hundred bucks to spend on winter boots may find these cost prohibitive.
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JBU by Jambu Women’s Edith Snow Boot
Best for Cold Climates
If you live in a very cold climate, these are absolutely the boots you need. I personally own these boots, and they’ve quickly become my favorite part of my winter wardrobe.
With an entirely man-made construction, these are reminiscent of the very trend duck-boots, perfect for keeping feet dry in slushy conditions. You can stomp through puddles and emerge with completely dry toes. The rubber sole provides excellent traction on icy, slippery surfaces.
If you like large, bold boots, the appearance of these shoes certainly won’t disappoint. The shaft comes up a little above mid-calf, and the faux-fur trim is sure to gain compliments.
For how large they are, these boots are also surprisingly lightweight. They’ll keep your feet warm and toasty, and are comfortable enough for long walks.
These vegan snow boots come in women’s sizes 6-10, including half sizes (though we should note they run a little on the large side). They are available in tan, dark gray, and black.
What We Like
In addition to the warmth, these boots are really statement-makers. They provide a vegan look-alike for very popular Sorel-style boots. Every time I wear mine out, I get tons of compliments on them.
What We Didn’t Like
These boots are big, even as far as winter boots are concerned. If you’re not into very bulky, astronaut-boot looking winter boots, these likely won’t fit into your winter wardrobe.
Check Price on AmazonVegan Winter Boots for Men
If buying vegan boots for women is difficult, finding vegan men’s boots can feel downright impossible. With a little digging, you can find them – or just opt for one of our favorites below.
Dr. Martens 1460 Vegan
Best for the Fashionable Man
Every former punk kid knows Doc Martens add a certain edge to any outfit. In the past few years, the company has added a completely vegan line to its already expansive list of products.
The 1460 is our favorite pick of the bunch. Featuring eight eyelets, the shoe is made from a black, vegan-friendly synthetic. Despite the material change, the famous style has been replicated practically down to the last stitch.
In addition to looking sharp, these boots are extremely durable and high quality. The upper and sole are sewn together instead of being glued. This way, they’ll stand up to lots of wear and tear, even in unfavorable weather.
The Doc Martens provide a comfortable walk to wherever you’re going, too. They feature an air-cushioned sole, are oil and fat resistant, and provide good traction on slippery terrain.
The boots come in black and have a shiny, subtle, two-tone finish. Traditional Dr. Marten lovers will appreciate that these vegan boots are a little more flexible and easier to get on and off.
What We Like
In addition to its edgy quality, we really admire the quality of these boots. With stitching and durable, resistant materials, these boots are sure to last you more than a few winters. While they are a bit of an investment, you’re spending your money on something that won’t need to be replaced next season.
What We Didn’t Like
While they’re great for slushy or wet conditions, don’t count on these boots to keep your feet warm and toasty. Those who live in very cold climates, or are looking for something to wear while shoveling the car out, might be disappointed by very cold feet.
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Kamik Canuck Cold Weather Boot
Best for Cold Climates
When you live in a cold area with harsh winters, boots are all about warmth. The Kamik Canuck Cold Weather boot is guaranteed to keep your feet warm and snug all winter long, through snow and slush and sleet.
The boot is made from a waterproof nylon upper and rubber sole to keep water out and heat in. It also features a handy drawstring at the calf to keep all that warmth inside and to prevent snow and ice from falling into your boot. It has superior traction on the sole, to help you keep your footing in icy conditions.
This boot also features a removable liner, so you can have as much or as little protection as needed. It’s perfect for those in temperate zones, where winters can be changeable.
These boots are highly rated by people who work in snowy conditions, walk a lot in winter weather, and those who are just looking for some dependable footwear for the winter. It’s also a great option for those who work in deep snow – the bungee cord helps keep feet extra warm and dry.
What We Like
We love the small details on these boots that make them extra effective against winter weather. The completely waterproof design and drawstring closure are tiny additions that make a huge difference when it comes to quality.
What We Didn’t Like
Some reviewers noted sizing issues with these boots. They tended to run a bit on the small side, so consider ordering a size up, or be ready to exchange these for another size upon arrival.
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Vivobarefoot Men’s Saami Walking Shoe
Best for City Slickers
Made from textile and synthetic materials, the Vivobarefoot Saami walking shoe is a perfect option for city dwellers.This shoe is sleek and lightweight, but the thermal lining and insoles keep toes warm and dry, even in troublesome winter weather.
The material is water-resistant so that it can protect against a reasonable amount of rain, slush, and snow. However, the shoes come up to about ankle height, so they’re better suited for cold areas without too much deep snow. Trying to trudge through deep snow in these will result in a snow-filled shoe – and no one wants that.
These shoes are also breathable. Many boots can cause feet to get overly hot and sweaty, but the Vivobarefoot products allow feet to breathe and stay warm, but not sweaty.
If you like “minimalist” style shoes that won’t feel too heavy on your feet, these are definitely an option to consider.
What We Like
We really love the look of these shoes! They are sleek, minimalist, and modern, while still effective and functional. No sign of poofiness or puffiness here – these are ideal for lovers of smart design.
What We Didn’t Like
Those who live in extremely cold climates may still get chilly toes from these shoes. They’re effective for what they are, but they’re best suited for more temperate zones without too much heavy snow or extreme temperatures.
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Sorel Glacier Boot
Best for Heavy Snow
One of the few vegan Sorel styles, the Glacier Boot is ideal for men in places that get heavy snow. These boots have a fabric and synthetic upper and a rubber sole, making them effective against cold and moisture.
The boots come to about knee-high, making them tall enough to surpass most snow drifts. For extremely deep snow, there is a drawstring cord at the opening to keep the snow out and the heat in.
The entire boot is water and wind resistant, which will help keep feet warm and dry in even the heaviest of snowstorms. The Omni-Heat reflective lining locks heat in, even as temperatures outside begin to drop.
These boots are perfect for those who live in cities with a lot of snow. However, it’s also great for winter sports enthusiasts, who need a practical boot for snowboarding or sledding.
What We Like
These simply can’t be beaten as far as effectiveness outdoors. The boots are completely waterproof up to the rubber, and purchasers note that they keep feet warm and dry, even after extended hours outside in the cold and snow.
What We Didn’t Like
Some reviewers noted problems with the lining of these boots – because it is not secured well to the boot, it can move and tangle over time.
Check Price on AmazonShopping for Vegan-Friendly Winter Boots
Like food ingredient lists, it’s important to carefully inspect the materials list on a pair of boots. Animal products can hide in your shoes under countless sneaky names.
Are any of the following materials used in your winter boots? Put ‘em back on the shelf.
LEATHER & SUEDE
Leather and suede are undoubtedly the most common materials in winter boots. These products are usually made from cow skin, but it can also come from pigs, sheep, and deer.
What many people don’t realize is that leather and suede are not “byproducts” of the meat industry. It’s not as though the skins from meat cows are being used for clothing. Many animals killed for leather are raised and slaughtered for their skins only.
Additionally, much leather used in clothing comes from India and China. These countries have little to no animal welfare laws, or those laws are simply not enforced. These animals experience terrible pain and suffering before they are eventually slaughtered.
Suede, another common material used in boots, is also made from animal skins. The skins are rubbed to create a velvet texture, which is the only thing that differentiates it from traditional leather.
Instead of traditional leather or suede, look for synthetic alternatives that have the look and feel of the real thing with none of the cruelty. You can also opt for man-made fabrics like nylon and canvas.
FUR
Like leather, fur is not a byproduct of the meat industry. Animals in this industry are raised specifically for their fur.
These farms deny fur animals any semblance of a natural life. Many are kept in cages, which is extremely uncomfortable and can cause bodily injury. The animals exhibit many of the same behaviors as other caged animals, including pacing and self-mutilation.
Fur from trapped animals is no kinder. Wild animals may be caught in leg traps for hours or days. If they aren’t found by the trapper first, they often succumb to the elements. Fur animals aren’t the only victims here – people’s pets have also been known to get stuck in these cruel and inhumane traps.
To keep the fur intact, fur animals are usually gassed, electrocuted, or have their necks broken. Investigations of Chinese fur farms have found that animals are skinned alive, sometimes remaining conscious for ten minutes after the process.
**GRAPHIC CONTENT WARNING**
The video below demonstrates the cruel Chinese practice of skinning animals alive for their fur. It is EXTREMELY GRAPHIC and hard to watch. If you have a low tolerance for these types of images, please do not watch.
No trim or lining is worth such suffering. Tell companies that this is unacceptable by always choosing fur-free and synthetic options.
SHEARLING
Any former UGG boot lover is probably familiar with shearling. However, it can be unclear as to exactly what this material is.
Some people are under the impression that shearling is the sheared wool of sheep. In reality, shearling is the skin of a sheep who was shorn right before slaughter. The resulting material is a leather-like skin with short “fleece” attached to it.
Because of its warmth, shearling is generally used for lining and trim. Double-check any boots that appear to have a fleece lining or trim, to make sure it’s synthetic or man-made. Leave that cozy sheepskin for the sheep!
WOOL
Wool is often used in boots in the lining, to keep feet warm during the cold months. While the sheep aren’t directly slaughtered for wool, it should still be avoided by vegans.
The most horrifying aspect of wool is “mulesing.” This is the process of removing skin – yes, chunks of flesh – from the hind ends of farmed sheep. Because flies can lay eggs in the skin folds of wool sheep, they must undergo this process without the use of anesthetics or painkillers.
In addition to this practice, the means of keeping sheep for wool means a world of castration, tail docking, and other painful practices that come with animal management. It’s a cruel, unnecessary industry, especially when you consider the number of animal-free alternatives available today.
Stances on Faux Animal Products
Just like vegan sausage and vegan cheese, there are plant-based alternatives when it comes to clothing. Instead of traditional leather and fur, vegans can choose to wear synthetic alternatives that do not contain animal products.
However, there are a few things to consider as you’re deciding whether to don these materials.
There is a camp of people that believe vegans shouldn’t wear synthetic leather or fur, even if they are 100% animal-free. The reasoning is that this creates a demand for these products, and furthers the idea that leather and fur translate to glamor and power. They believe that purchasing and wearing these look-alikes creates demand for the actual animal-based products.
While I certainly can see where these folks are coming from, I ultimately think alternatives to these materials are still vegan. By definition, they are vegan-friendly, as they contain no animal products and no animals were harmed.
Additionally, every purchase of vegan leather or fur sends a message to clothing companies. The message says, loud and clear, that there is demand for fashionable products made without the use of animal materials. The more people who choose animal-friendly products over the cruel alternatives, the more demand is created for vegan-friendly fashion.
If you would prefer not to wear faux fur or leather, even if it is synthetic, there are plenty of fabric options that don’t even pretend to look like animal-based boots.
However, if you simply can’t kick your love of “fur” trim or “suede” boots, you can still contribute to the vegan movement by picking man-made materials.
Either way, you’re showing that fur and leather made from animals are outdated and unacceptable. The choice comes down to your fashion preferences.
Cruelty-Free Snow Boots
A great pair of boots is essential for braving winter weather. As a vegan, having those boots be animal-friendly is non-negotiable.
While it can be difficult to find winter boots that don’t feature even a little leather trim, there are options out there. You can study up on the things to look for, or you can choose from our curated list of favorite products.
There’s something for everyone out there, whether you’re looking for a gorgeous pair of shoes to match your outfit, or an entirely functional pair to keep feet warm in a blizzard.
Regardless of what you choose, purchasing a vegan-friendly pair of winter boots sends a message to clothing companies. It says that compassion is the most fashionable choice of all, and creates demand for animal-friendly products.
Keep your feet as warm as your heart by choosing a pair of vegan boots!