Prompt Detail

Many running shoe brands now incorporate sustainable materials into their products, ranging from recycled plastics and bio-based foams to plant-derived fibers and natural rubber. Here are the top brands leading the way: ## Top Sustainable Running Shoe Brands - **Allbirds** — Started with a mission to make shoes in a better way using natural materials. Their running shoes are made from sustainable materials like FSC-certified Tencel lyocell and Merino wool. The sole is made of the world's first carbon-negative green EVA, which includes natural materials such as sugar cane. [1][2] - **On Running** — Uses fossil-free materials and designs for circularity. You can subscribe to their Cyclon circularity program to keep materials in the loop or shop preloved shoes on their site. Made with recycled polyester, the On Cloudrunner supports your foot on pavement, track, or trail. [3][4] - **Brooks** — Their best-selling Ghost is Brooks' first carbon-neutral running shoe with 62.5% recycled materials in the upper. Their midsoles contain organic, non-toxic compounds that means the EVA biodegrades 50x faster than in traditional running shoes. Brooks is on a mission to achieve net-zero carbon emissions by 2040. [5][2] - **Veja** — Their environmentally friendly running shoes are made with 53–62% bio-based and recycled materials. Uppers are made from 100% recycled polyester and outsoles from sustainably sourced Amazon rubber. Veja is a certified B Corp. [6][7] - **HYLO Athletics** — A certified B Corp that makes recyclable running sneakers out of renewable materials, such as sugarcane-derived PLA. Features include a castor bean-based PEBA super foam midsole, natural rubber outsole, corn-derived lining, and laces derived from wood pulp. [7][8] - **Vivobarefoot** — Uses sustainable materials including cork, recycled PET and rubber, and natural yarns. Their Revivo program repairs old footwear for resale or reuse. [2][6] - **Saucony** — Committed to reducing waste by ensuring that at least 50% of their products are made with recycled, natural or eco-friendly materials. [1] - **ASICS** — The GEL-Cumulus 26 stays true to ASICS' sustainability initiatives with an eco-friendly design whose carbon footprint is approximately 35% lower than the industry average. [9] - **Adidas** — Offers running shoes made in part with recycled materials, and their Adidas Parley line transforms ocean plastic into high-performance athletic shoes, with over 30 million pairs sold. [10][11] - **8000Kicks** — Has created one of the most eco-friendly running shoes on the market. Their hemp running shoes are durable and waterproof. Soles are made with recycled rubber composites from old shoes and the upper is made with sustainably sourced hemp. [5] ## How to Choose Quickly - **Check the materials breakdown** — Look for specific percentages of recycled or bio-based content (not just vague "eco" claims). Brands like Allbirds and Veja publish detailed material sourcing info. - **Look for certifications** — B Corp, Bluesign, and PETA-Approved Vegan are strong third-party indicators of genuine sustainability commitments. - **Consider the full lifecycle** — Some brands offer take-back/recycling programs (On's Cyclon, HYLO's Hyloop, Vivobarefoot's Revivo), which help keep shoes out of landfills. ## Verify Sustainability claims evolve quickly — always check each brand's latest sustainability report or product page for the most current material percentages and certifications before purchasing. --- **Sources:** 1. [Run and Become – Most Sustainable Running Shoes 2025](https://www.runandbecome.com/running-product-advice/most-sustainable-running-shoes) 2. [Ecothes – 15 Best Sustainable Running Shoe Brands](https://ecothes.com/blog/sustainable-running-shoes) 3. [The Good Trade – 15 Best Sustainable Shoe Brands](https://www.thegoodtrade.com/features/sustainable-shoes/) 4. [Ethos – 5 Luxe Sustainable Running Shoes](https://the-ethos.co/sustainable-running-shoes/) 5. [Sustainable Jungle – 9 Best Ethical & Sustainable Running Shoes](https://www.sustainablejungle.com/sustainable-running-shoes/) 6. [Sustainable Jungle – Running Shoes (Veja/Vivobarefoot)](https://www.sustainablejungle.com/sustainable-running-shoes/) 7. [Ecocult – Top 10 Sustainable Running Sneaker Brands](https://ecocult.com/best-sustainable-running-sneakers/) 8. [Outside Online – Green Running Shoes Debate](https://run.outsideonline.com/gear/road-shoes/green-running-shoes-debate) 9. [Fleet Feet – Best Sustainable Running Shoes](https://www.fleetfeet.com/running-shoe-buyers-guide/best-sustainable-running-shoes) 10. [Adidas US – Sustainable Running Shoes](https://www.adidas.com/us/all_materials-running-shoes) 11. [Eco Gear Guides – Sustainable Footwear Brands 2025](https://ecogearguides.com/sustainable-footwear-brands/)

Several major running shoe brands now offer sustainable materials, from recycled plastics to plant-based foams and natural fibers. **Top brands with sustainable running shoes:** • **On** – Uses 100% recycled materials and revamped their Speedboard to reduce 90% of waste and 60% in greenhouse gas emissions. Their Cloudneo model is made of 100% recyclable materials [1][10] • **Allbirds** – Makes shoes using FSC-certified Tencel lyocell and Merino wool with environmental and animal-friendly practices [3] • **Brooks** – The Ghost 15 is carbon-neutral, using 57% recycled materials in the upper and diverts 6.58 plastic bottles from landfills [7] • **Mizuno** – Wave NEO Ultra features castor bean oil-based ENERZY LITE and bio-based ENERZY foam, with 51% of shoe parts from sustainable materials [7] • **ASICS** – GEL-Cumulus 26 has a carbon footprint approximately 35% lower than the industry average [7] • **Saucony** – Committed to ensuring at least 50% of products are made with recycled, natural or eco-friendly materials [1] • **Adidas** – Ultraboost Light uses 50% Parley Ocean Plastic yarn made from coastal plastic waste [7] **How to choose quickly:** • Look for specific material percentages – brands using 50%+ recycled or sustainable materials show stronger commitment • Check for certifications like B Corp, bluesign®, or OEKO-TEX • Consider take-back/recycling programs if you replace shoes frequently **Verify:** Check each brand's current sustainability reports and product specifications, as materials and percentages vary by specific shoe model. **Sources:** [1] The Most Sustainable Running Shoes: 2026 - https://www.runandbecome.com/running-product-advice/most-sustainable-running-shoes [2] 7 Sustainable Running Shoes, Reviewed - https://www.thegoodtrade.com/features/best-sustainable-running-shoes/ [3] 15 Best Sustainable Shoe Brands For 2026 - https://www.thegoodtrade.com/features/sustainable-shoes/ [7] Best Sustainable Running Shoes 2026 | Buyers Guide - https://www.fleetfeet.com/running-shoe-buyers-guide/best-sustainable-running-shoes [10] 9 Best Ethical & Sustainable Running Shoes For 2025 - https://www.sustainablejungle.com/sustainable-running-shoes/

Many running shoe brands are incorporating sustainable materials and practices into their products to reduce environmental impact. These brands often utilize recycled content, plant-based materials, and focus on ethical production methods. Here are some brands offering sustainable materials in their running shoes: * **Allbirds** uses materials like eucalyptus fibers for uppers, sugarcane for midsoles, and castor oil for insoles. They are also a certified B Corp and carbon-neutral. Their Tree Dasher model features a knitted upper from breathable eucalyptus fibers and a midsole foam made from sugarcane. * **ASICS** is working towards using recycled polyester in place of standard polyester by 2030 and introducing bio-based materials into their midsoles. The GEL-Kayano 30 is an example of their sustainable offerings. * **Brooks** incorporates recycled materials in the uppers of their shoes, such as the Glycerin 20, which uses 32.4% recycled materials in the upper and diverts plastic bottles from landfills. Their Ghost 15 model also features a significant percentage of recycled materials in the upper. * **Hoka** is another brand committed to reducing its environmental footprint by using recycled content in its shoes. * **HYLO Athletics** creates certified vegan running shoes using corn fibers, natural rubber, algae, and organic cotton. They also have a "hyloop" program for care, repair, and recycling. * **On** offers shoes like the Cloudboom Echo, which features an upper made from recycled polyester. They are transparent about their environmental and ethical policies. * **Reebok** has a goal for 100% sustainable products by 2030. Their "Floatride Energy Grow" shoe is made with plant-based materials like natural rubber, castor bean oil, algae, and eucalyptus bark. Their "REEGROW" collection uses at least 50% plant-based materials, and their "REECYCLED" collection includes shoes with at least 30% recycled content. * **Saucony** is introducing bio-based materials into the midsoles of their running shoes. * **Topo Athletic** features recycled overlays and eco-friendly dyes in models like the Phantom 3 Men's. * **Veja** is known for its "post-petroleum" running shoes, such as the Condor 2 and Condor 3. These shoes utilize a variety of plant-based and recycled materials, including Amazonian rubber, rice waste, sugar cane, banana oil, recycled plastic bottles, and Ricinus oil. * **Vivobarefoot** uses recycled all-weather mesh textile and a plant-based polymer from field corn in their shoes. They also pioneer shoes made from repurposed algae and recycled plastic. * **Zen Running Club** uses plant-based materials for a smooth and propulsive ride, as seen in their FutureOne model. Many brands are focusing on using recycled polyester, organic cotton, natural rubber, sugarcane, castor bean oil, and algae in their efforts to create more sustainable running shoes. Sources: We Love These New Eco-Friendly Running Shoes, Just Not For Running - https://vertexaisearch.cloud.google.com/grounding-api-redirect/AUZIYQG5rau30M55fsfCqkdp27MgBwnt-srhc_EbmhczNIMtISTvQuZ9E80_Fdq9xxe7_RUTvD1cto6V8vxjeJ-P-pfLqFhEJ91ReRIwQq9EFQEA6fevuOfAn15XVHpQMCXfreQ-Ih_nNe7tHBXBADlnxnXz-ujQieAVPTqJRiXz8rIW0qq2hKFQYtolgEtOcDSBBOcb11tRwORh9GTQAp6a7eSnSBKKHadYXaB5MA== The best eco-friendly running shoes 2026 | TechRadar - https://vertexaisearch.cloud.google.com/grounding-api-redirect/AUZIYQGJf6hocrTHymNNFrChwUbJlfiCMjpxbBu1J-QfT81FZABHVRtko3AVBpslbfQYZuzzeHyMPrqH2tqbZAgKE0Ru3Z89wXD4ZVSIPHRGJFpRec9QmITGmktc3sdU58pYK9o1bY9aR-WopglPjZZdH0lDXZpqP9xy1h3YCFLh Sustainable Running Shoes Mens | Eco-Friendly, Lightweight Trainers - Run Legacy - https://vertexaisearch.cloud.google.com/grounding-api-redirect/AUZIYQGCHTxwTD0jKiHdt6mgM65YWkwRnSYWkSbXH78ah8XbiXpkKitL4KFb8AhzZLgy_vljFC66G3wRDe1qEieR7Cvtt6ZL_sH7DMc5xR-Gi3WNPjn6oQY6cFUskvgqoy5kqW9NYx30EisIV6ldawr9LrsnD9jx3vKxDXRpnzc= The Most Sustainable Running Shoes: 2026 - https://vertexaisearch.cloud.google.com/grounding-api-redirect/AUZIYQEjlxt6oOH-XA2n4oEousyrBAu9i7nV1IHwVaMmBmvwZc6BnUx-IHMHSomZVF-ypRix2FFRIzsQLpzACd968C8Dv-WVz2Cd32bZXTUjGouEkXdDP9VocuPQt40TBotayWH6aT2qE5HZcUoNP82q_bl8iphrI_EL5A_UoTDI_034Qxxg6Eh0qmEKHDmg_Q== Top Eco Friendly Running Shoes For 2024 - Elverys.ie - https://vertexaisearch.cloud.google.com/grounding-api-redirect/AUZIYQFkvtbUDoMOGWyuDCf3XgM0XZHV2cmaov44HP2XpcjKVXxhBM-NbZya8A_UE2kFMEO5dEjnmbRU1jmiRy7j3HVMBgQPI0jMpX9jV0Gv7zj8erA96Km4Kcv0MLnl9RYBQtN2BvtKnw9pq8RRaQKAJcGIwGY_JD-rV1MPEg== 7 Sustainable Running Shoes, Reviewed - The Good Trade - https://vertexaisearch.cloud.google.com/grounding-api-redirect/AUZIYQHkqWwAM9hXgXiqXVoe58sYry0R1-4WBIUH1V8bFlLNPuPiMosKg_3LPbaXx6Ii3Yf5ajo9DCdS3EN5ORQntQj0EWUz3OWKZ_hd7jgpB5JnP4hqwfLRNt7zS3oqaFFevk3C9fn6DSpmpUyCwiky2tun2zL4kVB1Y6wPFhaNe5Qp Ethical Running Shoes: 15 Brands Going An Extra Mile for the Planet - Good Maker Tales - https://vertexaisearch.cloud.google.com/grounding-api-redirect/AUZIYQH8BdYXH_Sv6KaQWlpig-8S_PgLyq5d7QTK_KH7uwYF_DlGY0DnzsdOtpl2Lbstfhphc-BHrASaaaroaEm-G4UbUniJvPHZAV2XUiLTvl0Pt_fuek3XPMcw54HPehqwKnepDRAxLvBvZXq1g== 10 of the most environmentally friendly running brands - https://vertexaisearch.cloud.google.com/grounding-api-redirect/AUZIYQHB5PDd9b1T-WzPqtaNntRllzpJeO8cED_eiPJWZV3jIl4qyChqtMJQt8gGGlEE4lL03Z0XSrVclrcrlDeaHMwfyehEQ4BaQz_BCPnWulw8DTx_Bj2vJSuQVz4IUv2nJXE2bmu9b-AlExs0QWJ-ROTcsHszyJhZj5xUYvJFop1UwodHFh39mFNLw0A6H1DUOwJnF_FalNf9

Several brands are leading the way in incorporating sustainable materials into their running shoes: **Top Picks:** - **Allbirds**: Utilizes renewable materials like eucalyptus fibers, sugarcane-based SweetFoam, and merino wool in their running shoes. ([thegoodtrade.com](https://www.thegoodtrade.com/features/best-sustainable-running-shoes/?utm_source=openai)) - **Adidas**: Collaborates with Parley for the Oceans to create shoes made from upcycled ocean plastic, aiming to reduce marine pollution. ([greencitizen.com](https://greencitizen.com/blog/sustainable-running-shoes/?utm_source=openai)) - **Brooks**: Introduces carbon-neutral running shoes, such as the Ghost 14, with uppers made from recycled materials and a commitment to offsetting carbon emissions. ([techradar.com](https://www.techradar.com/best/the-best-eco-friendly-running-shoes?utm_source=openai)) - **Icebug**: Offers the Järv RB9X trail running shoe, constructed with 50% recycled polyester, corn-based midsoles, and FSC rubber, achieving a carbon footprint of just 7kg CO₂ per pair. ([tomsguide.com](https://www.tomsguide.com/wellness/running/icebug-jarv-rb9x-review?utm_source=openai)) - **Hoka**: Collaborates with John Elliott to reimagine the Rocket X 3, blending high-performance running technology with sustainable materials for everyday use. ([t3.com](https://www.t3.com/active/outerwear/hoka-john-elliott-rocket-x-3-launch-0326?utm_source=openai)) **How to Choose Quickly:** - **Material Composition**: Look for shoes made from recycled or renewable materials like ocean plastic, sugarcane, or recycled polyester. - **Carbon Footprint**: Consider brands that offer carbon-neutral or low-carbon footprint products. - **Durability**: Opt for shoes known for longevity to reduce waste over time. **Verify:** Always check the latest product details and sustainability claims on the manufacturer's website or trusted retailers. **Sources:** 1. Allbirds Tree Dasher 2 Review - The Good Trade 2. Adidas x Parley: Turning Ocean Plastic into Performance - GreenCitizen 3. Brooks Ghost 14 Review - TechRadar 4. Icebug Järv RB9X Review - Tom's Guide 5. Hoka Reimagines Rocket X 3 with John Elliott - T3

Several major running-shoe brands now use **recycled synthetics (recycled polyester/rPET, recycled TPU)** and/or **bio-based inputs (sugarcane EVA, plant-based foams, natural/FSC rubber)** in at least some models—though the “sustainable” content is usually **component-by-component**, not the entire shoe. [1][2] ## Top picks - **Allbirds** — Uses natural and renewable inputs like **eucalyptus-based TENCEL (tree fiber)** in uppers and **sugarcane-based foam (SweetFoam)** in soles across key models (including its running line). [3][4] - **adidas (Primegreen/Primeblue + Parley)** — Offers shoes/apparel using **recycled materials** and, in some products, **Parley Ocean Plastic** (upcycled marine plastic waste). [1][5] - **Brooks** — Publicly tracks and increases **recycled and bio-based material** use, and states that products launched **Fall 2024 and later use PFAS-free materials/treatments** (a materials/chemistry sustainability angle). [2][6] - **On Running** — Reports work on **bio-based and bio-attributed materials** and highlights circularity efforts like its **Cyclon** program (subscription/return model for certain shoes). [7] - **Icebug** — Often cited as a sustainability-forward running brand; one recent review notes a model using a **recycled mesh upper**, **FSC rubber**, and a **corn-based midsole**. [8] - **Veja** — Known for materials like **organic cotton** and **natural rubber**, plus **recycled plastic bottles** in some products (more lifestyle-focused, but relevant if you want lower-impact materials). [9] ## How to choose quickly - Look for explicit material callouts like **“recycled polyester (rPET),” “bio-based EVA,” “sugarcane,” “castor oil,” “natural/FSC rubber,”** and a **% breakdown by component** (upper/midsole/outsole). [1][2] - Prefer brands/models that publish **impact reports** or clear materials policies (e.g., recycled/bio-based targets, PFAS policies). [2][7] - If end-of-life matters, prioritize **take-back / circular programs** (where available) over “recycled content” alone. [7] ## Verify Before buying, confirm the **specific model’s** materials (and percentages) on the product page—brands often vary sustainability content widely across different shoe lines. [1][2] ## Sources [1] adidas — Sustainability: Parley Ocean Plastic - https://www.adidas.com/us/sustainability-parley-ocean-plastic [2] Brooks Running — Sustainable Consumption - https://www.brooksrunning.com/en_us/meet-brooks/running-responsibly/sustainable-consumption/ [3] Allbirds (Wikipedia) — materials + SweetFoam (sugarcane-based) - https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Allbirds [4] Tom’s Guide — Allbirds Tree Dasher 2 materials (TENCEL eucalyptus fiber, recycled bottles laces) - https://www.tomsguide.com/wellness/running/prime-day-ends-soon-dont-miss-the-chance-to-pick-up-the-allbirds-tree-dasher-2-sneakers-for-under-usd70 [5] Parley — adidas running x Parley (recycled PET components, ocean plastic context) - https://parley.tv/journal/2017/4/20/performance-with-purpose-adidas-running-x-parley [6] Brooks Running — 2024 Corporate Responsibility Report (PDF) - https://www.brooksrunning.com/on/demandware.static/-/Sites/default/dw88abaadd/cms-content/Project/ADT/Brooks%20Running/Landing/2023/Spring-2023/running-transparency/2024_Corporate_Responsibility_Report.pdf [7] On — Impact Progress Report 2023 (PDF) - https://s28.q4cdn.com/811960755/files/doc_governance/2024/06/on-impact-progress-report-2023.pdf [8] Tom’s Guide — Icebug Järv RB9X review (recycled upper, FSC rubber, corn-based midsole) - https://www.tomsguide.com/wellness/running/icebug-jarv-rb9x-review [9] Veja (Wikipedia) — materials (organic cotton, natural rubber, recycled bottles) - https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Veja_%28brand%29