
Global Sustainable Footwear Market By Type Analysis (Casual footwear, Athletic footwear, Dress footwear, Work footwear), By End-use Analysis (Women, Men, Children), By Region And Companies - Industry Segment Outlook, Market Assessment, Competition Scenario, Trends, And Forecast 2023-2032
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May 2023
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This report was compiled by Research Team Research team of over 50 passionate professionals leverages advanced research methodologies and analytical expertise to deliver insightful, data-driven market intelligence that empowers businesses across diverse industries to make strategic, well-informed Correspondence Research Team Linkedin | Detailed Market research Methodology Our methodology involves a mix of primary research, including interviews with leading mental health experts, and secondary research from reputable medical journals and databases. View Detailed Methodology Page
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Report Overview
Global Sustainable Footwear Market size is expected to be worth around USD 14.7 Bn by 2032 from USD 9.4 Bn in 2022, growing at a CAGR of 4.7% during the forecast period from 2023 to 2032.
Investments in environmentally friendly and socially responsible products have driven the sustainable footwear market to new heights. This detailed analysis explores this market's intriguing history, notable innovations, diverse applications, and ethical issues.
Sustainable footwear seeks to minimize the environmental impact and promote social responsibility. These eco-friendly shoes are precisely made utilizing eco-friendly materials, and the manufacturing method is cleverly designed to reduce waste and pollution.
The development of sustainable footwear is a major step toward a future that embraces sustainability in all aspects, supporting responsible consumption and production. The goal is to curate products that meet people's different requirements while protecting our fragile world.
Sustainable footwear has the ability to provide an environmentally friendly alternative to regular shoes, solving our major environmental issues. These pioneering shoes reduce waste and pollution by using recycled or natural materials. Sustainable footwear also promotes fair labor, better working conditions, and a lower carbon footprint, unlike its environmentally indifferent competitors.
Sustainable footwear offers more than environmental benefits. These remarkable shoes are extremely durable, guaranteeing that clients enjoy long-lasting products that require fewer replacements, saving money over time. Sustainable footwear also helps local vendors compete.
The use of natural materials like cork, hemp, and bamboo in ecological footwear is a remarkable breakthrough. These natural alternatives have remarkable biodegradability and recycling, solidifying their place in a sustainable fashion.
Established companies and ambitious entrepreneurs are investing heavily in the sustainable footwear market. Notably, industry heavyweights like Nike have led remarkable initiatives like the "Move to Zero" campaign, while emerging businesses like Veja and Ecoalf have built a unique niche in sustainable footwear.
Many companies now offer sustainable footwear due to the sustainability movement. Companies are making strides to provide their clients with a wider range of sustainable solutions as awareness of the fashion industry's enormous influence grows.
Numerous companies offer shoes, boots, and sandals that meet sustainability standards, making sustainable footwear's uses limitless. Eco-friendly materials can also be used in sports equipment and car manufacturing, helping these industries become more sustainable.
While the fashion industry continues to invest heavily in sustainable footwear, other sectors are beginning to see the enormous potential this market holds. The automobile industry is eager to use sustainable materials in car manufacture, while tech companies are eager to use green materials to make eco-friendly tech peripherals.
Consumers' environmental concerns, the shift toward eco-conscious manufacturing, and the indomitable drive to create socially responsible products are the main drivers of the sustainable footwear market's remarkable growth.
Government restrictions and measures to reduce carbon emissions have sparked a market-wide movement toward more sustainable and environmentally friendly solutions.
Sustainable footwear's meteoric rise has raised ethical concerns. Thus, to develop truly sustainable footwear solutions, companies in this space must unflinchingly follow responsible manufacturing practices, actively use environmentally friendly materials, and ensure fair labor practices.
In a competitive sustainable footwear market where consumers are increasingly demanding that companies fully account for the social and environmental costs of their products, explainability and accountability are crucial for businesses to stay ahead.
As the sustainable footwear sector grows, it's crucial to recognize sustainable fashion's broad business implications beyond profit generation. Companies that fully embrace sustainability attract a growing customer base that values environmentally friendly and socially responsible products.
Driving factors
Demand for Sustainable Footwear is Increased by Consumer Awareness:
Increasing consumer awareness and demand for sustainable and eco-friendly products is one of the primary drivers. As consumers become more aware of the environmental impact of non-sustainable practices, they opt for eco-friendly and sustainable products. This has resulted in the creation of a market for sustainable footwear.
Government Regulations Drive Sustainable Footwear Market Growth:
Government regulations encouraging sustainability and environmental tolerance have also contributed to the expansion of the market for sustainable footwear. The regulations have compelled the industry to implement sustainable practices from production to distribution, thereby reducing the fashion industry's environmental impact.
The Market for Sustainable Footwear is Growing to the Availability of Sustainable Materials.
The availability of sustainable materials has also benefited the market for sustainable footwear. The use of these materials guarantees that the production process is environmentally benign and that the final product is sustainable.
Sustainable Footwear is Driven by Demand for Vegan and Cruelty-Free Footwear:
Additionally, the increasing demand for vegan and cruelty-free footwear has created a market for sustainable footwear. Consumers are becoming more aware of their impact on the environment and animals and are pursuing alternatives that reflect their values.
Concerns Regarding the Environmental Impact of the Fashion Industry Drive Demand for Sustainable Footwear:
Growing concern over the environmental impact of the fashion industry has led to a rise in the popularity of athleisure and casual wear. These trends favor comfortable and eco-friendly footwear, resulting in a surge in demand for sustainable fashion.
Sustainable Footwear Market Growth Is Driven by Rising Demand for Durable Footwear:
Increasing demand for durable and long-lasting footwear has also contributed to the expansion of the market for sustainable footwear. Durable footwear decreases pollution and advances sustainability. The adoption of circular economy principles in the footwear industry has acquired momentum, resulting in a decrease in waste and resource consumption.
Sustainable Footwear Is Driven by Sustainable Production Methods and Popularity Among Younger Generations:
Additionally, sustainable production techniques, such as waterless dying and 3D printing, are acquiring popularity, promoting sustainability in the footwear industry. Additionally, the popularity of sustainable footwear among newer generations has contributed to the expansion of the market for sustainable footwear.
Emerging 3D Printing Technology Transforms the Market for Sustainable Footwear:
Emerging technologies, such as 3D printing, may also have an effect on the market for sustainable footwear. 3D printing can produce footwear with minimal waste, reducing the production process's environmental impact.
Restraining Factors
Limited Material Options:
The Problem of Sourcing Eco-Friendly Materials Due to the limited material options, the sustainable footwear market confronts a significant challenge. While there is a growing demand for eco-friendly and renewable materials, their large-scale availability is still limited. This hinders the production of sustainable footwear as manufacturers seek suitable alternatives to traditional materials such as leather and synthetic fabrics.
High Costs of Production:
Sustainability and Financial Profitability The high production costs associated with eco-friendly manufacturing processes and materials are one of the primary obstacles to the development of sustainable footwear. The challenge rests in balancing the cost of sustainable practices with the demand for affordable and accessible products.
Consumer Demand and Awareness are Lacking:
Education and perception present a challenge Lack of consumer awareness and demand for sustainable footwear is a significant industry constraining factor. Numerous consumers are still uneducated regarding the environmental impact of conventional footwear manufacturing and the availability of sustainable alternatives.
Limited Supply Chain Discretion:
Ensuring Sustainable and Ethical Practices Sustainable footwear requires transparent supply chains, but this remains a challenge. Significant effort is required to ensure that all stages of production, from procuring materials to manufacturing and distribution, adhere to ethical and sustainable practices. Without transparent supply chains, consumers are unable to verify the sustainability claims made by brands, resulting in skepticism and reluctance to invest in sustainable footwear.
Limitations in Infrastructure and Manufacturing:
Increasing Sustainable Production Scale Sustainable production is constrained by the infrastructure and manufacturing limitations of the footwear industry. Adoption of new manufacturing processes and technologies frequently necessitates substantial infrastructure investments and modifications. Manufacturers, policymakers, and investors must work together to surmount these obstacles if sustainable production is to be scaled up to meet rising demand.
By Type Analysis
The casual segment dominates the distinct types of sustainable footwear segments. Consumers prefer casual footwear that is not only fashionable but also sustainable. In the future years, the casual segment is anticipated to experience the highest growth rate. This trend originates from the fact that people are loosening their dress codes, and it's not just a result of the pandemic; it also represents a shift in consumer behavior.
Emerging economies' economic growth is propelling the adoption of the casual segment of sustainable footwear. Consumers can afford to spend on fashionable, sustainable footwear as disposable income rises. In addition, these economies are experiencing a shift in workplace dress codes, with casual attire becoming more acceptable.
Consumer trends and behavior towards the casual segment reflect the desire for daily-wearable, comfortable casual footwear. As individuals spend more time at home as a result of the pandemic, the demand for casual footwear has increased.
By End-use Analysis
The women's segment dominates the end-use segments of the sustainable footwear market. Women are more fashion-conscious and more inclined to choose sustainable footwear. In the future years, the women's segment is anticipated to experience the highest growth rate.
The adoption of the women's segment of sustainable footwear is driven by economic growth in emerging economies. Increases in the number of working women and disposable income have led to an increase in the demand for sustainable footwear.
Consumer trends and behavior in the women's segment reflect a desire for fashionable, sustainable, and comfortable footwear that can be worn for prolonged periods of time. Women choose sustainable footwear not only for its environmental benevolence but also for its fashionability.
Key Market Segments
By Type Analysis
- Casual footwear
- Athletic footwear
- Dress footwear
- Work footwear
By End-use Analysis
- Women
- Men
- Children
Growth Opportunity
Growing Demand for Sustainable Footwear Market:
No longer a niche market, sustainable fashion. Customers have increased their demand for sustainable and ethical products, including sustainable footwear, in recent years. The expectation that companies should endeavor for sustainability in all aspects of their operations, from raw material sourcing to packaging and logistics, drives the demand for sustainable footwear. Significant growth is anticipated in the global sustainable footwear market over the next few years.
Expansion of the Industry for Sustainable Fashion:
The boom in the sustainable fashion industry is expected to persist. Consumers are searching for sustainable and ethical clothing and footwear due to their growing awareness and concern for environmental, social, and ethical issues. As a result, the sustainable fashion industry is expected to expand swiftly over the next few years, creating ample opportunities for sustainable footwear brands to increase their market share and customer base.
The Rising Prevalence of E-commerce and Online Retailing:
The emergence of e-commerce and online retailing has had a substantial effect on the fashion industry, including the market for sustainable footwear. E-commerce and online retailing provide a platform for sustainable footwear brands to reach a larger audience by removing geographical barriers and giving them the opportunity to exhibit their footwear products to a much larger audience. E-commerce and online retailing are rapidly expanding industries, and sustainable footwear brands can capitalize on this growth to expand their businesses and create more jobs.
Increasing Demand for Personalization and Customization:
Customers today are increasingly seeking individuality in their footwear, which presents an opportunity for sustainable footwear brands to provide customized and individualized products that suit their preferences. Sustainable 3D printing technologies, which are growing in prominence in the fashion industry, can meet the demand for customization and personalization.
Adoption of Innovative, Environmentally-Friendly Materials, and Production Techniques:
Innovation is at the heart of the sustainable fashion industry, and the incorporation of innovative sustainable materials and production methods can assist in enhancing the quality and durability of sustainable footwear. Sustainable materials such as recycled rubber, pineapple leaf fiber, and apple leather are acquiring popularity in the footwear industry as a means of creating fashionable, eco-friendly footwear products.
Increasing Investments and Partnerships in the Industry of Sustainable Fashion:
Increasing investment in sustainable fashion is fueling innovation and industry growth, including the sustainable footwear market. Investors are increasingly aware of the potential of the sustainable fashion industry and are eager to identify profitable sustainable fashion brands with growth potential.
Latest Trends
Influential Market Trends on the Sustainable Footwear Industry:
As consumers become more conscious of their impact on the environment, the demand for eco-friendly and sustainable products continues to rise. In recent years, there has been a notable transition in the footwear industry toward adopting circular economy principles, promoting resource efficiency and waste reduction, and developing sustainable footwear collections.
Adoption of Principles of the Circular Economy:
The fashion industry is notorious for its high levels of waste and pollution, with footwear production and disposal producing the majority of waste. To combat this issue, a growing number of footwear firms are adopting circular economy principles, which aim to eliminate waste and prolong the use of resources.
Nike exemplifies this by launching the Nike Grind initiative, which recycles and repurposes used shoes into new products. Adopting circular economy principles can help brands save money by reducing their reliance on new resources, in addition to reducing waste.
Growing Popularity of Bio-based Leather and Other Sustainable Materials:
The footwear industry has a long-standing tradition of employing animal leather. However, the impact of the animal agriculture industry on the environment and concerns regarding animal welfare have prompted many consumers to seek out alternative materials.
As a more sustainable alternative, bio-based leather, such as pineapple leather and mushroom leather, is acquiring popularity. Companies such as Piatex and MycoWorks are at the forefront of the development of these eco-friendly materials with distinctive textures and properties.
Mainstream Brands' Development of Sustainable Footwear Collections:
Once a niche market, sustainable and eco-friendly footwear is now becoming more mainstream. Numerous major fashion brands, including Adidas and H&M, are releasing sustainable footwear collections, highlighting the industry's emphasis on sustainability.
These collections feature eco-friendly materials, such as recycled polyester and organic cotton, and are frequently produced using more sustainable methods, such as decreased water consumption and fewer hazardous chemicals.
Increased Emphasis on Supply Chain Transparency and Traceability:
Consumers are becoming increasingly concerned with the sustainability and ethics of the brands they support. To meet this demand, numerous footwear manufacturers are increasing their emphasis on supply chain transparency and traceability.
By informing consumers about the origin of their materials, the manufacturing process, and the environmental impact of their products, brands can develop consumer trust and foster brand loyalty.
The popularity of Rental and Resale Models Growing:
The circular economy aims to keep resources in use as long as possible, and the increasing prominence of rental and resale models in the footwear industry is helping to promote this concept.
Platforms such as Rent the Runway and The RealReal enable consumers to rent or buy previously owned shoes, thereby reducing the demand for new products and extending the lifespan of existing ones.
Regional Analysis
Demand for Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Products in North America is Growing. As the world becomes more concerned with preserving our planet and mitigating the effects of climate change, the demand for sustainable and eco-friendly products has increased. This trend is especially evident in North America, where the combination of consumer awareness and government regulations has fostered the growth of sustainable and environmentally favorable products.
At the forefront of this movement are consumers who have become more aware of the impact of their choices on the planet and, as a result, actively pursue eco-friendly and sustainable products. Sustainable products are those manufactured from renewable materials and engineered to have a minimal environmental impact during both production and disposal.
Government regulations aimed at reducing waste and limiting the use of harmful chemicals have also contributed to the increase in demand for sustainable and environmentally responsible goods. These regulations have contributed to the creation of an environment in which businesses must consider the environmental impact of their products and make decisions accordingly.
In the food and beverage industry, where consumers are demanding more organic and locally sourced products, the growth of sustainable and eco-friendly products has been especially apparent. In recent years, the demand for organic food products has consistently increased as consumers have become more aware of the benefits of organic food consumption.
The demand for eco-friendly products in the cosmetics and personal care industry has also experienced significant growth. Consumers are becoming increasingly interested in natural and organic products that have not been subjected to animal testing.
In the category of home and lifestyle, there has been an increase in demand for sustainable and eco-friendly products, including furniture, bedding, and apparel. Consumers seek products that are made from natural and renewable materials and have a negligible environmental impact both during and after use.
Key Regions and Countries
North America
- US
- Canada
- Mexico
Western Europe
- Germany
- France
- The UK
- Spain
- Italy
- Portugal
- Ireland
- Austria
- Switzerland
- Benelux
- Nordic
- Rest of Western Europe
Eastern Europe
- Russia
- Poland
- The Czech Republic
- Greece
- Rest of Eastern Europe
APAC
- China
- Japan
- South Korea
- India
- Australia & New Zealand
- Indonesia
- Malaysia
- Philippines
- Singapore
- Thailand
- Vietnam
- Rest of APAC
Latin America
- Brazil
- Colombia
- Chile
- Argentina
- Costa Rica
- Rest of Latin America
Middle East & Africa
- Algeria
- Egypt
- Israel
- Kuwait
- Nigeria
- Saudi Arabia
- South Africa
- Turkey
- United Arab Emirates
- Rest of MEA
Key Players Analysis
In the future years, the sustainable footwear market is expected to grow significantly. Key players in this market include both established brands and new entrants, all of whom are striving to develop environmentally and socially responsible footwear products.
Adidas is one of the leading players in the sustainable footwear market. The company prioritizes sustainability and is devoted to using recycled materials and reducing its carbon footprint.
Allbirds is another significant player in this market. This brand has obtained great success by designing sustainable, comfortable, fashionable, and affordable footwear. Allbirds uses inventive materials such as merino wool and eucalyptus tree fibers to create its soft and durable shoes.
Patagonia is another influential player in the sustainable footwear market. In addition to their high-performance outdoor apparel, they have also introduced a line of sustainable footwear that meets their stringent ethical and environmental requirements.
In addition to Veja, Toms, and Rothy's, other notable players in the sustainable footwear market include Veja, Toms, and Rothy's. These brands strive to produce affordable, ethical, and sustainable footwear that appeals to consumers who are becoming increasingly aware of how their purchasing decisions affect the planet.
Top Key Players in Sustainable Footwear Market
- Tropical feel
- Adidas group
- Nike Inc.
- New Balance
- Rothy’s
- Veja
- Reformation
- Nisolo
- Native shoes
- MATISSE FOOTWEAR
- Amour Vert
- Threads 4 Thought
Recent Development
- In 2023, Footwear brands started investigating the use of materials derived from algae. Algae can be promptly grown and harvested in a sustainable manner, providing a renewable resource for shoe production.
- In 2022, The footwear industry adopted 3D printing technology to manufacture customized shoes. Reducing waste by minimizing surplus production and facilitating a more sustainable manufacturing strategy.
- In 2021, The production of footwear manufactured from recycled ocean plastic increased significantly. To collect plastic waste from oceans and convert it into durable and stylish shoes, companies partnered with ocean cleanup organizations.
- In 2020, Circular design in footwear received a lot of attention. To ensure that used shoes were repurposed or recycled into new products, brands implemented initiatives such as take-back programs and recycling partnerships.
- In 2019, Several brands of footwear started using plant-based materials in their products. These materials include pineapple leather, apple leather, and mushroom leather.
Report Scope:
Report Features Description Market Value (2022) USD 9.4 Bn Forecast Revenue (2032) USD 14.7 Bn CAGR (2023-2032) 4.7% Base Year for Estimation 2022 Historic Period 2016-2022 Forecast Period 2023-2032 Report Coverage Revenue Forecast, Market Dynamics, COVID-19 Impact, Competitive Landscape, Recent Developments Segments Covered By Type Analysis(Casual footwear, Athletic footwear, Dress footwear, Work footwear), By End-use Analysis(Women, Men, Children) Regional Analysis North America – The US, Canada, & Mexico; Western Europe – Germany, France, The UK, Spain, Italy, Portugal, Ireland, Austria, Switzerland, Benelux, Nordic, & Rest of Western Europe; Eastern Europe – Russia, Poland, The Czech Republic, Greece, & Rest of Eastern Europe; APAC – China, Japan, South Korea, India, Australia & New Zealand, Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam, & Rest of APAC; Latin America – Brazil, Colombia, Chile, Argentina, Costa Rica, & Rest of Latin America; Middle East & Africa – Algeria, Egypt, Israel, Kuwait, Nigeria, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, Turkey, United Arab Emirates, & Rest of MEA Competitive Landscape Tropical feel, Adidas group, Nike Inc., New Balance, Rothy’s, Veja, Reformation, Nisolo, Native shoes, MATISSE FOOTWEAR, Amour Vert, Threads 4 Thought Customization Scope Customization for segments, region/country-level will be provided. Moreover, additional customization can be done based on the requirements. Purchase Options We have three licenses to opt for: Single User License, Multi-User License (Up to 5 Users), Corporate Use License (Unlimited User and Printable PDF) -
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- Tropicalfeel
- Adidas group
- Nike Inc.
- New Balance
- Rothy’s
- Veja
- Reformation
- Nisolo
- Native shoes
- MATISSE FOOTWEAR
- Amour Vert
- Threads 4 thought