As hiking is an outdoor activity, many hikers find themselves more conscious of the environment and how the decisions they make impact their world, including the clothing they buy. Finding the best vegan hiking boots can be tough, as leather is still a very popular material. Luckily, many manufacturers have been listening to hikers’ needs and are producing great vegan hiking boots. In fact, there are some manufacturers that produce only vegan hiking boots!
In addition to the lineup for our most recommended vegan hiking boots, we also want to make sure you understand the basics about this gear.
–Materials: Different vegan materials perform uniquely, so which vegan hiking boots you select will depend on your needs.
-Fit: Making sure you know how hiking boots should fit is going to be a critical part of finding the best pair.
–Special Features: There are a lot of options and features in today’s hiking boots, so we’ll let you know which ones are the best for your situation.
Read More: Vegan Hiking Boots Buying Guide
The 8 Best Vegan Hiking Boots
| Best Overall Vegan Hiking Boots | Men’s Arc’teryx Acrux TR GTX Women’s Arc’teryx Acrux TR GTX |
| Best High Budget Vegan Hiking Boots | Men’s La Sportiva Trango Cube GTX Women’s La Sportiva Trango Cube GTX |
| Best Mid-Budget Vegan Hiking Boots | Men’s Merrell MQM Flex 2 Mid Women’s Merrell MQM Flex 2 Mid |
| Best Supportive Vegan Hiking Boots | Men’s Astral TR1 Merge Mid Women’s Astral TR1 Merge Mid |
| Best Traction Vegan Hiking Boots | Men’s Inov8 Roclite 345 GTX Women’s Inov8 Roclite 345 GTX |
| Best Minimalist Vegan Hiking Boots | Men’s Vivobarefoot Magna Trail 2 FG Women’s Vivobarefoot Magna Trail 2 FG |
| Best All-Season Vegan Hiking Boots | Men’s Salomon Cross Hike Mid GTX Women’s Salomon Cross Hike Mid GTX |
| Best Affordable Vegan Hiking Boots | Men’s XPETI Thermator Women’s XPETI Thermator |
8 Of The Best Vegan Hiking Boots For Men & Women
We’ve rounded up the best vegan hiking boots below, and the best part is that they’re all available for both men and women.
Be sure to click on the proper link to find the boot you’re looking for in the description.
Arc’teryx Acrux TR GTX Vegan Hiking Boots
Men’s Arc’teryx Acrux TR GTX – Women’s Arc’teryx Acrux TR GTX
The Acrux TR GTX boots earned high marks in our reviews because they’re ultra lightweight, super durable, and feature micro-plated technology to deliver superior underfoot support.
The Vibram Megagrip outsoles and aggressive lug patterns provide excellent grip on all surface conditions, and the GORE-TEX inserts keep them waterproof and breathable.
Why We Like It:
- Extremely lightweight
- Waterproof and breathable
- Outstanding grip
La Sportiva Trango Cube GTX Vegan Hiking Boots
Men’s La Sportiva Trango Cube GTX – Women’s La Sportiva Trango Cube GTX
The Trango Cube GTX model are everything you’d want in a vegan hiking boot: super comfortable, well-performing in all conditions, lightweight, and highly durable.
They can also be resoled, giving you even better long-term value in your investment.
Why We Like It:
- GORE-TEX Performance Comfort membrane keeps feet dry
- Can be resoled for longevity
- Lightweight and abrasion-resistant
Merrell MQM Flex 2 Mid Vegan Hiking Boots
Men’s Merrell MQM Flex 2 Mid – Women’s Merrell MQM Flex 2 Mid
Merrell is a trusted and long-lasting name in quality hiking gear, and they hit another home run with the MQM Flex 2.
These boots are fast in the forefoot and protective in the rear, and feature tear-resistant uppers, a mountain-grade outsole, and protective midsoles.
They’re also lightweight, breathable, waterproof, and feature a rock plate for underfoot protection.
Why We Like It:
- Waterproof mesh upper with GORE-TEX waterproof membrane
- Air-cushioned heel absorbs shocks and adds stability
- Extremely grippy outsoles
Astral TR1 Merge Mid Vegan Hiking Boots
Men’s Astral TR1 Merge – Women’s Astral TR1 Merge
The TR1 Merge boots feature uppers with breathable, quick-dry canvas with protective TPU overlays at the toe and heel caps, a stabilizing heel counter, padded mesh tongue, and removable Polygiene insoles.
The midsole features an EVA foam footbed and medium arch support with a shank for added stability, while the outsole gives you sure footing with 5mm lugs.
Why We Like It:
- 5mm lug pattern provides plenty of grip
- Durable construction for lots of long-term use
- Plenty of support throughout the midsole
Inov8 Roclite 345 GTX Vegan Hiking Boots
Men’s Inov8 Roclite 345 GTX – Women’s Inov8 Roclite GTX
Inov8’s Roclite 345 GTX boots are simply awesome! They’ve got everything you’d need from a pair of boots: GORE-TEX waterproof technology, a graphene-enhanced G-Grip outsole which sticks to anything, a POWERFLOW midsole that provides better shock absorption and better energy return than other midsoles, and increased flexibility.
These are one of our absolute favorites, and for added bonus, they’re extremely stylish too.
Why We Like It:
- GORE-TEX waterproofing keeps your feet dry and comfortable with breathable materials
- Unparalleled grip thanks to the graphite-enhanced G-Grip outsole
- Midsole provides 10% more shock absorption and 15% more energy return than other midsoles
Vivobarefoot Magna Trail 2 FG Vegan Hiking Boots
Men’s Vivobarefoot Magna Trail 2 FG – Women’s Vivobarefoot Magna Trail 2 FG
If you’re looking for a more minimalist or barefoot feel while ensuring your boots are cruelty-free, the Magna Trail 2 FG are your best bet.
These boots feature a modern style and are shaped to your feet (not your toes), to let your feet perform naturally.
They’re all-weather, feature an outsole that provides multi-terrain traction thanks to a sticky rubber compound and 4mm lugs, and feature a smart thermal insole that knows when to absorb, store, and release heat to keep your foot temperature properly regulated.
In addition to being vegan and animal-free, they’re also made from sustainable and recycled materials.
Why We Like It:
- Water resistant, vegan, and made from recycled materials
- Excellent grip (sticky rubber outsole w/ 4mm lugs)
- Thermal insole regulates temperature on it’s own
Salomon Cross Hike Mid GTX Vegan Hiking Boots
Men’s Salomon Cross Hike Mid GTX – Women’s Salomon Cross Hike Mid GTX
The Cross Hike Mid GTX are great all-around vegan hiking boots thanks to their waterproof protection, Contragrip outsole with multidirectional lugs, and agile performance.
They’re lightweight, blend modern and traditional styling, and are great all-season performers.
Why We Like It:
- All-season, versatile performance
- Excellent outsole with multidirectional lugs
- Waterproof
XPETI Thermator Vegan Hiking Boots
Men’s XPETI Thermator – Women’s XPETI Thermator
The Thermator hiking boots are an excellent value at an affordable price, and they feature many of the key components we demand of any hiking boot.
They’re waterproof, feature an aggressive sole for good traction, a protective molded heel, and a rubber toe cap.
Considering that these are under $100 at the time of this writing makes them an incredible deal.
Why We Like It:
- Extremely affordable and high value
- Durable
- Lots of protection and grip
Vegan Hiking Boots Buying Guide
While the choices can vary wildly, each manufacturer offers their own vegan materials and specific features in their hiking boot options.
Use this guide to help you find the best pair of vegan hiking boots for your needs.
Look For Vegan Materials
If vegan goods are important to you (and we’re assuming they are, since you’re reading this), the first priority is going to be discerning that the materials your boots are made from are truly vegan.
There are many options for non-leather and synthetic boot uppers, and the good news is that they perform as well or better than leather.
Non-Vegan Materials
You can look on the manufacturer’s product description, under the tongue, or on the sole of the shoe to see what types of materials are used in the boot.
Non-vegan upper materials include terms like leather, genuine leather, coated leather, suede, nubuck, or suede leather.
Vegan Materials
Vegan-friendly materials will include terms like manmade materials, microfiber, thermoplastic urethane, nylon, breathable mesh, synthetic materials, polyester, or synthetic leather.
Glue & Dyes
Additionally, you’ll want to look at the glue that holds your boots together.
There are many boots made of synthetic or non-leather materials that aren’t classified as vegan because the glues or dyes used in them are made with animal products.
So while it may seem obvious, look for hiking boots that are specifically stated as 100% vegan hiking boots.
Make Sure You’ve Got Adequate Support
Support is key in any boot, and especially for hiking. Make sure your boots support your ankles and prevent them from twisting while you move.
Also look for thicker outsoles that offer lug patterns that will help you to get grip and traction on a variety of surfaces.
Lastly, opt for a pair of hiking boots that offer a shank in the midsole, giving you extra support for rough terrain.
Pay Attention To The Materials
When possible, opt for vegan materials that offer durability and breathability. Most vegan hiking boots will have this naturally, as they are designed to stand up to the demands of the trail.
Think About Your Activities
Will you be doing basic hikes? Hiking steep terrain? Maybe even some mountaineering, ice climbing, or crossing water?
All of these will impact what vegan hiking boots will suit you best. Consider the boots’ compatibility with crampons or gaiters depending on your needs.
You Should Choose Waterproof Boots
Waterproofing will also be a key consideration if you’ll be hiking in wet conditions. Look for hiking boots that offer waterproof membranes along with additional water-resistant outer materials.
Comfort Is Paramount
Keeping comfort in mind is critically important when choosing your hiking boots, as you’ll be spending a lot of time in them.
Pay attention that your toes have enough room to wiggle around in the boot and that the sides of your feet and heel are snug.
Note that while a stiffer midsole may seem less comfortable at first, you’ll be thankful for the support when it comes to hiking on rough terrain filled with rocks or tree roots.
Know The Trail You’re Hiking
It’s always a great idea to research a new trail before your first time hiking it to know the type of terrain and any potential obstacles you may be up against.
This will also allow you to choose the best boot features for your situation.
Keep The Weather Conditions In Mind
Some boots are rated for specific seasons, while others are all-weather.
Pay attention to this (as well as the boot’s waterproof rating) when making your selection.
Factor In The Weight
One big varying factor in hiking boots is the weight factor.
Think about what types and lengths of hiking you’ll be doing, your overall fitness level, and your stamina when selecting your hiking boots, as weight will make a big difference over longer hikes.
Wide Or Narrow Feet
Everyone’s feet and ankles vary, so pay attention to any special needs you may have like wide feet, narrow feet, or flat feet, and take this into account when selecting your vegan hiking boots.
High-Cut Or Mid-Cut Boots
Think about if you’re hiking in all 4 seasons or if you’re laying off hiking during winter.
High-cut boots offer more protection from the weather and better ankle support, but they are a little heavier.
Consider this factor when deciding between mid-cut and high-cut boot options.
Tips To Find 100% Animal-Free Hiking Boots
Always check the details, product info, or features section on the boots you’re looking at. If you’re on a retailer’s website and they don’t list much, take a look at the manufacturer’s product page for extra information.
If you’re in-store, ask the workers or look on the boot’s sole or tongue to see if they state what products are used.
Note that the terms fairtrade or organic do not mean that the boots are necessarily vegan.
As a last resort, you can always contact the company who makes the boots you’re interested in.
Best Vegan Hiking Boot Brands
There are plenty of brands that offer some vegan options, and a few that offer only vegan options. Here are some popular vegan boot brands and their offerings:
| Brand | Vegan Options or 100% Vegan |
| Astral | 100% Vegan |
| Eco Vegan | 100% Vegan |
| La Sportiva | 100% Vegan |
| Lowa | Vegan Options |
| Merrell | Vegan Options |
| REI Co-Op | Vegan Options |
| SCARPA | Vegan Options |
| Trekstar | Vegan Options |
| TropicFeel | 100% Vegan |
| Vegetarian Shoes | 100% Vegan |
| WickedHemp | 100% Vegan |
| Will’s Vegan Store | 100% Vegan |
| XPETI | Vegan Options |
How To Get A Great-Fitting Pair Of Vegan Hiking Boots
A word of advice here: you should always try on hiking boots at the end of the day to account for foot swelling, and wear your usual pair of hiking socks.
Your boots should fit snugly around the sides and heel of your foot, provide sturdy ankle support, and leave an inch in the front for your toes.
Here are some key points to look for when you’re thinking about how hiking boots should fit:
- You should have at least an inch of toe room in the front, and enough room for your toes to wiggle around.
- Up to a quarter-inch heel lift is okay at first – after your boots are broken in this heel room should resolve itself, otherwise you can use a heel grip to close the gap.
- If you ever start to feel like your foot is falling asleep (aka “pins and needles”), this is a sign that your boots are too tight, and it’s time to move up a size or try thinner socks if you’ve already purchased the boots and can’t return them.
- If you’re flat-footed, you’ll need to consider a half-size up in hiking boots to make room for orthopedic insoles to support your arches.
There are many additional factors to consider as you fit yourself for a new pair of hiking boots under $100 – read on for an in-depth analysis and what to look for.
Check out our guides to How Should Hiking Boots Fit and How Much Toe Room Is Needed In Hiking Boots for an in-depth explanation.
Frequently Asked Questions About Vegan Hiking Boots
Vegan hiking boots are hiking boots that are made without any animal ingredients or byproducts.
Vegan hiking boots are often less expensive than regular hiking boots, and are also known to last longer than traditional boots.
Yes, GORE-TEX is a vegan waterproof membrane that promotes dry feet and breathability through it’s liners and membranes featured on many hiking boots.
