As the clothing industry has advanced, society has been able to move away from leather and animal-cruelty based goods, creating synthetic options that are just as stylish and comfortable.
Also called faux leather, vegan leather is made up of a variety of synthetics and has been around since as early as the 19th century. Presstoff, one of the first vegan leathers, was originally produced in Germany and is still used regularly today.
Vegan leather boots are generally a lower-cost alternative to real leather and avoids the need to kill animals. It’s extremely durable, mimics real leather, and is available in a number of textures, colors, and materials.
Vegan leather boots can be made from polyurethane or other more sustainable materials such as cork, recycled plastic, pineapple leaves, and fruit waste. The more durable vegan leathers have even been used by some companies to make leather-alternative footwear, which is just as fashionable and affordable as other big-brand options on the market.
Whatever your style it’s possible to find leather-alternative boots that meet your needs, whether that means a little extra calf room or padding for the winter months.
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Dr. Martens Vegan 1460 Boot Rub
We’re going to start off with a classic company and style: Dr. Martens. Founded over 70 years ago, Dr. Marten shoes and boots are distinguished by an air-cushioned sole, yellow stitching, and welted construction.
Their 1460 vegan leather boots have a classic look, thick soles, beautiful shine, and they lace up. They’re slip resistant and made with two-tone vegan leather. Dr. Martens has been able to maintain their customer base by offering vegan friendly alternatives to their distinct styles and lines.
Pros: Great in wet weather, a perfect vegan option to Dr. Martens leather goods.
Cons: Not appropriate for an active lifestyle. Soles wear quickly.
Size range: Women 5-15, Men 4-14
Color options: Black, Cherry Red
Blowfish Malibu Women’s Rider Boot
Although marketed as a rider boot, Blowfish Malibu’s synthetic-based boot is more about fashion than purpose. It reaches mid-calf, has a low stacked heel, and beautiful detailing just above the ankle.
The synthetic material has a slightly rugged look to it with worn buckles and accessories to add a little flare. It’s available in both black and chocolate.
Pros: The weathered look to the material is beautiful and a favorite among customers.
Cons: Don’t hold up well to wear and tear.
Size range: Women 6-8.5
Color options: Bronze Canvas, Brown
Soda Women’s Magpie Lace Up Combat Boot
If you’re looking for something a little more punk, with some added height, the Magpie is a perfect fit. These military ankle boots are chunky and lace right up the front. Thick soles unfortunately aren’t slip proof.
It’s a simple style that is understated, but powerful. Customers seem very happy with the overall look, fit, and height of 2.5 inches!
Pros: Sturdy heel for support, no breaking in needed.
Cons: Go up a half-size for added room in the toe area.
Size range: Women 5.5-11
Color options: Black, Dark Wine
Brinley Co. Women’s Over the Knee Lace Up Boots
Brinley Co. kicked it up a notch with their over-the-knee vegan boots, a beautiful 22-inch tall boot that laces up the back with detailing along the side. It’s understated with just a little bit of sex appeal. The variety of colors is also a huge draw.
This is a great find considering many knee-high boots are only available in suede material. A faux leather option from Brinley Co. could be a great addition to your shoe rack!
Pros: The material has been described as looking somewhat cheap, and can be snug around the shins.
Cons: The wide-calf option is great for women with thicker legs.
Size range: Women 5.5-12, wide calf options also available
Color options: Black, Grey, Olive, Brown
Brinley Co. Women’s Stacked Wood Heel Bootie
Bringing it to the other end of the spectrum, Brinley Co. has also created a vegan leather bootie option for those who love this style. The heel is made from wood and has that popular chunky look to it. This is a double-zipper design with tassels included.
If you’re not a fan of the calf to knee height boots, you can still dress it up a bit with these booties. Brinley Co. prides itself on comfort when it comes to women’s heels. Their shoes are just eye-catching enough to add to your outfit without being overwhelming.
Pros: Great for all-day, painless wear. Easy to walk in.
Cons: Most customers need to order up a half size for a good fit.
Size range: Women 5.5-12, wide calf options also available
Color options: Black, Grey, Olive, Brown, Wine, Taupe
Dream Pairs Faux Fur Knee High Boot
Made from polyurethane (artificial) leather, these knee-high boots come with diamond quilting on the sides and backs. They’re a great option for winter with faux fur lining that matches the outer color.
These boots go a little retro with the addition of a buckle strap, but it’s a look that hasn’t gone out of fashion. Customers love the roomy fit to these boots, allowing wearers to pull on thick winter socks and enjoy the outdoors no matter the season!
Pros: A perfect fit with beautiful quilt design. Warm for the cold months!
Cons: Knit material at the top of the boot catches on zippers.
Size range: Women 5.5-11
Color options: Brown, Black, Grey
Dream Pairs PU Knee High Riding Combat Boots
A combination of two styles, these vegan leather boots are both beautiful and intimidating. Aside from the detailing of the polyurethane leather, they’re very simple, with the full-front lacing drawing the eye.
The heels add an extra 1 ¼ inch of height and these synthetic leather boots are padded with faux fur for extra comfort. Solid boots for any military-style fan.
Pros: Comfortable and functional. The faux fur provides warmth and comfort in the colder months, and are even water resistant.
Cons: Slightly tight around the calves and loose around the ankles.
Size range: Women’s 5-12
Color options: Black, Brown, Camel, Grey, Khaki
Hey, I’m Gus! I have been vegan for quite some years now, and have collected a lot of knowledge about the subject in this time. My goal with this blog is to spread the vegan message and make it easy to know exactly what’s vegan and what’s not.
