Sustainable Footwear Market

Sustainable Footwear Market Size

The global Sustainable Footwear Market size was valued at USD 8.94 billion in 2023 and is projected to grow from USD 9.43 billion in 2024 to USD 14.28 billion by 2031, exhibiting a CAGR of 6.10% during the forecast period. The rising environmental awareness among consumers is significantly influencing the market .

As concerns regarding climate change, pollution, and resource depletion intensify, more people are seeking products that align with their values of sustainability and eco-consciousness. Consumers are increasingly favoring products made from eco-friendly materials, such as recycled plastics, organic cotton, and plant-based alternatives.

These materials contribute to reducing the environmental impact of footwear production. In the scope of work, the report includes products offered by companies such as Adidas AG, VEJA, Allbirds Inc., Nike Inc., NISOLO, Tropicfeel, Rothy's, Vivobarefoot, Amour Vert, Native Shoes, and others.

Additionally, the growing popularity of sports and fitness activities has led to a surge in demand for athleisure, a trend characterized by the integration of athletic wear into everyday fashion. This trend has expanded the sustainable footwear market for sustainable sports footwear beyond professional athletes to a broader consumer base that prioritizes both style and sustainability.

Sports brands are increasingly highlighting the sustainability of their products in marketing campaigns, appealing to environmentally conscious consumers who prioritize ethical consumption in all aspects of their lives.

• In August 2023, the Japanese brand Mizuno introduced its eco-friendly Wave Neo collection, featuring the Wave Neo Wind and Wave Neo Ultra running shoes. These models are crafted using environmentally conscious materials such as recycled polyester and plant-derived components, with the goal of reducing CO2 emissions. Designed for high functionality, they are intended for both performance runners and marathon enthusiasts who prioritize sustainability while maintaining performance standards.

Sustainable footwear refers to shoes that are designed and produced with a focus on minimizing environmental impact throughout their lifecycle. This includes the use of eco-friendly materials such as recycled plastics, organic cotton, and plant-based alternatives, as well as innovative manufacturing processes that reduce waste, energy consumption, and carbon emissions.

Moreover, sustainable footwear emphasizes ethical practices by ensuring fair labor conditions and maintaining transparency throughout the supply chains. Additionally, these shoes are often designed for durability, which promotes extended use and reduces the frequency of replacements. At the end of their lifecycle, sustainable footwear may be recyclable or biodegradable, thereby aiding in environmental conservation.

Analyst’s Review

Footwear companies are increasingly prioritizing sustainability in response to growing consumer demand for eco-friendly products. This has led to significant investments in research and development to discover methods that reduce environmental impact while maintaining high standards of quality and performance.

Advancements in material science have played a pivotal role in the development of biodegradable and recyclable materials that are  sustainable, durable, and comfortable, catering to both casual wearers and performance athletes.

• For instance, in April 2023, KEEN introduced the Targhee IV hiking boot, featuring KEEN.FUSION technology, which represents a breakthrough in sustainable manufacturing. This technology eliminates the need for toxic glues by using heat and pressure to merge the boot’s upper and sole into a single piece, creating one of the industry’s first solvent-free mechanical bonds.

Moreover, the evolving regulatory landscape is playing a crucial role in shaping the market landscape. Governments and international organizations are enforcing stricter environmental laws focusing on carbon emissions, waste management, and the use of hazardous substances in manufacturing processes.

Companies that proactively adopt eco-friendly practices ensure compliance and gain a competitive advantage in a market that is increasingly focused on sustainability. By adhering to stringent regulatory requirements, companies strengthen their market position, foster consumer loyalty, and drive sustained growth in this rapidly evolving industry.

• For instance, in May 2022, Allbirds  launchedits Tree Flyer running shoe,  which represents a significant advancement in sustainable footwear. This model features an impressively low carbon footprint of just 9.92 kilograms of CO2e, all of which is fully offset. Additionally, nearly all the excess waste generated during the production of the midsole is recycled and repurposed to create the external heel counter, demonstrating the brand's commitment to sustainability.

Sustainable Footwear Market Growth Factors

The convenience of online shopping, combined with the increasing consumer preference for sustainable products, has contributed significantly to the growth of the sustainable footwear market. Furthermore, the digital marketplace enables brands to communicate their sustainability efforts directly to consumers, showcasing the environmental benefits of their products through detailed descriptions, certifications, and customer reviews.

As consumer preferences shift toward e-commerce for their shopping needs, the market for sustainable footwear is likely to maintain its growth trajectory. This shift is further supported by the accessibility and global reach that online retail provides.

• For instance, in May 2024, Rothy's, Inc. announced its debut on Amazon’s store, thereby broadening access to its range of stylish, comfortable, and washable shoes and accessories, all crafted from single-use plastic bottles.

Moreover, innovation in materials and manufacturing processes plays a significant role in boosting the expansion of the market. Advances in sustainable materials have enabled brands to produce high-quality, stylish shoes that maintains performance standards while being environmentally friendly.

The development of technologies, such as 3D printing and low-waste production methods, has enabled manufacturers to reduce waste and energy consumption. These innovations appeal to environmentally conscious consumers and help brands lower their costs, making sustainable footwear more accessible to a broader audience

However, the higher production costs associated with using eco-friendly materials and advanced manufacturing processes pose a significant challenge to the development of the sustainable footwear market.

These higher costs associated with sustainable footwearcompared to traditi onal options may limit consumer adoption and hinder market expansion. To mitigate this challenge, companies are exploring partnerships with suppliers to secure better pricing for sustainable materials and are leveraging technological advancements to streamline production that can further assist in managing expenses.

Additionally, advancements in technology and economies of scale are expected to reduce production costs over time, thereby making sustainable footwear more accessible and affordable.

Sustainable Footwear Market Trends

The expansion of footwear production facilities enables brands to innovate, scale sustainable practices, and meet the growing demand for eco-friendly footwear. By investing in new, state-of-the-art facilities, companies are significantly increasing their output while incorporating advanced sustainable practices into their manufacturing processes.

The growth of production capabilities further allows companies to explore localized manufacturing, which shortens supply chains and reduces emissions from transportation.

• For instance, in October 2023, World Shoe unveiled its inaugural factory in Africa, marking theintroduction of the continent's first antimicrobial, eco-friendly footwear brand. This facilityis anticipated to produce over five million shoes annually, featuring an innovativedesign that integrates performance functionality, environmental sustainability, and disease protection.

Furthermore, the integration of innovative technologies, such as 3D printing, is propelling the expansion of the sustainable footwear market. 3D printing allows for highly efficient and precise manufacturing, which reduces material waste and enables the use of sustainable materials that may not be feasible with traditional methods.

This technology facilitates the creation of intricate designs and custom-fit shoes without the need for extensive mold production, which further reduces environmental impact. By streamlining the production process, 3D printing lowers costs and enhances the flexibility of manufacturing, allowing companies to quickly adapt to changing consumer preferences and market trends.

• In January 2024, London-based footwear company Vivobarefoot, in partnership with material science firm Balena, unveiled a prototype for compostable shoes. This groundbreaking product is recognized as the world’s first 3D-printed, made-to-measure compostable shoe, designed to decompose into a non-toxic substance.

Segmentation Analysis

The global market is segmented based on type, end-user, distribution channel, and geography.

By Type

Based on type, the market is segmented into athletic footwear and non-athletic footwear. The non-athletic footwear segment led the sustainable footwear market in 2023, reaching a valuation of USD 5.58 billion. The non-athletic footwear segment is further classified into casual shoes, dress shoes, sandals, and others.

The non-athletic footwear category includes a wide range of everyday and formal footwear, appealing to a broader consumer base beyond those with athletic interests. Non-athletic shoes, such as casual wear, dress shoes, and loafers, are used more frequently, leading to increased demand.

Additionally, the growing emphasis on sustainability in everyday fashion prompting consumers to seek eco-friendly options for their daily wear. Brands are increasingly offering stylish, sustainable non-athletic footwear alternatives, making it easier for consumers to adopt sustainable choices.

By End-User

Based on end-user, the sustainable footwear market is classified into men, women, and children. The men segment secured the largest revenue share of 48.65% in 2023. This segment benefits from increasing consumer awareness and the rising demand for sustainable options, as men are increasingly becoming aware of environmental issues and actively seeking eco-friendly products.

Additionally, numerous sustainable footwear brands have focused their marketing and product development efforts on men's styles, offering a variety of attractive and functional options that appeal to this demographic. This targeted approach, combined with growing consumer awareness, contributes significantly to the dominance of the segment.

By Distribution Channel

Based on distribution channel, the market is divided into specialty footwear shops, department stores, online retailers, and others. The online retailers segment is poised to witness significant growth at a robust CAGR of 6.47% through the forecast period.

Online platforms offer unparalleled convenience, allowing consumers to browse and purchase sustainable footwear from any location and at any time. This accessibility is crucial for reaching a global audience and catering to the increasing demand for eco-friendly products.

Additionally, online retailers can effectively showcase a wide range of sustainable options, including niche and emerging brands, through detailed product descriptions, reviews, and transparent sustainability claims. The ability to compare prices and read customer feedback further enhances the appeal of online shopping, thereby supporting the expansion of the segment.

Sustainable Footwear Market Regional Analysis

Based on region, the global market is classified into North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, MEA, and Latin America.

Asia Pacific emerged as the leading region in the sustainable footwear market in 2023, attaining a valuation of USD 3.24 billion. Government regulations and policies that promote sustainability are supporting the growth of the Asia-Pacific market.

Governments throughout the region are enacting stricter environmental regulations and providing incentives for companies that adopt eco-friendly practices. These policies prompt footwear brands to innovate and integrate sustainable practices into their operations, thereby creating a more conducive environment for the development and marketing of eco-friendly products. The regulatory framework fosters increased investment in sustainable footwear and supports regional market growth.

• The Indian Government has approved the Central Government Scheme ‘Indian Footwear and Leather Development Programme (IFLDP)’ with a budget allocation of USD 212.5 million through March 31, 2026, or until further review. This scheme is designed to enhance infrastructure within the leather and footwear sector and address environmental concerns specific to this industry.

Additionally, the growing middle-class population and rapid economic development in countries such as China, India, and Japan are augmenting the growth of the Asia-Pacific market. As disposable incomes rise, consumers in these regions are increasingly inclined to invest in higher-quality, environmentally friendly products. This shift in consumer spending power is fueling the demand for sustainable footwear, as individuals increasingly seek to align their purchases with their growing environmental consciousness and preference for premium, eco-friendly options.

Europe is poised to experience significant growth at a robust CAGR of 6.42% over the forecast period, This notable expansion is attributed to rigorous environmental regulations and policies aimed at reducing carbon emissions and promoting sustainability.

The European Union's Green Deal and various national regulations promote businesses to adopt eco-friendly practices, including the use of sustainable materials and low-impact production processes. These policies create a favorable environment for the growth of the sustainable footwear market by compelling brands to innovate and align with sustainability standards.

• In May 2024, the European Council announced that member states had approved new regulations under the "Ecodesign" framework. This framework establishes sustainability requirements for nearly all products across the EU. Additionally, it includes a prohibition on the destruction of unsold textiles and footwear.

Furthermore, collaborative efforts among brands, material suppliers, and sustainability organizations are supporting the growth of the Europe market. Strategic partnerships, facilitated by the European Textile and Apparel Confederation’s sustainability programs, are fostering innovation and advancing sustainable practices within the industry.

These initiatives focus on promoting the adoption of eco-friendly materials and processes, thereby enhancing the overall sustainability of the footwear sector. These collaborations foster the development of cutting-edge solutions and create a supportive ecosystem that stimulates regional market growth.

Competitive Landscape

The global sustainable footwear market report will provide valuable insight with an emphasis on the fragmented nature of the industry. Prominent players are focusing on several key business strategies such as partnerships, mergers and acquisitions, product innovations, and joint ventures to expand their product portfolio and increase their market shares across different regions.

Strategic initiatives, including investments in R&D activities, the establishment of new manufacturing facilities, and supply chain optimization, could create new opportunities for market growth.

List of Key Companies in Sustainable Footwear Market

• Adidas AG
• VEJA
• Allbirds Inc.
• Nike Inc.
• NISOLO
• Tropicfeel
• Rothy's
• Vivobarefoot
• Amour Vert
• Native Shoes.

Key Industry Developments

• March 2024 (Product Launch): Veja unveiled its latest sustainable running shoe, the Condor 3. This new iteration leverages advancements in research and development, along with bio-based materials, presenting a novel approach to performance running shoe.
• July 2023 (Product Launch): Nike introduced its latest advancement in shoe foam technology, ReactX. After five years of testing, this updated foam has been integrated into the InfinityRN 4 model. Along with enhancing optimal running performance, the technology contributes to reducing Nike's overall carbon footprint.

The global sustainable footwear market is segmented as:

By Type

• Athletic Footwear
  • Running Shoes
  • Training Shoes
  • Hiking Boots
  • Others
• Non-Athletic Footwear
  • Casual Shoes
  • Dress Shoes
  • Sandals
  • Others (Boots

By End-User

• Men
• Women
• Children

By Distribution Channel

• Specialty Footwear Shops
• Department Stores
• Online Retailers
• Others

By Region

• North America
  • U.S.
  • Canada
  • Mexico
• Europe
  • France
  • U.K.
  • Spain
  • Germany
  • Italy
  • Russia
  • Rest of Europe
• Asia-Pacific
  • China
  • Japan
  • India
  • South Korea
  • Rest of Asia-Pacific
• Middle East & Africa
  • GCC
  • North Africa
  • South Africa
  • Rest of Middle East & Africa
• Latin America
  • Brazil
  • Argentina
  • Rest of Latin America