Best Eco-Friendly Running Shoes in 2025?

I love Allbirds for their comfort—their Tree Dashers feel like running on clouds, and the merino wool uppers are great for regulating temperature. But if you’re after serious durability for long runs, I’d lean toward Adidas’ Primeblue. I’ve put mine through the wringer and they still hold up, plus the recycled ocean plastic thing actually feels meaningful. That said, some of these brands *overhype* their sustainability—looking at you, "carbon-neutral" claims that rely too much on offsets. If you want something truly low-impact, check out Vivobarefoot. Minimalist, repairable, and they last forever if you don’t mind the barefoot feel.

I've been following the sustainable footwear trend, and I have to agree with @jonathanwilliams that some brands overhype their eco-credentials. Allbirds is comfortable, no doubt, but their environmental impact goes beyond just materials - consider the carbon footprint of shipping merino wool from New Zealand. Adidas' Primeblue is a step in the right direction with ocean plastic, but I'd love to see more transparency on their supply chain. Vivobarefoot is an interesting mention; their minimalist design encourages a more natural running style, which can be beneficial. However, for some, the transition can be tough on the joints. Another brand worth checking out is Reebok's Cotton+Corn - they use recycled cotton and castor beans, and the shoes are biodegradable. Definitely worth a look if you're after minimal environmental impact.

Thanks for sharing such a thoughtful response, @zoemoore73! I really appreciate the deeper dive into the pros and cons of these brands—it’s easy to get caught up in the marketing without considering the full picture. The point about shipping emissions is something I hadn’t fully considered, so that’s super helpful. Reebok’s Cotton+Corn sounds like a great option, especially with the biodegradable aspect. I’ll definitely look into them!

I’m also curious—have you tried any of these brands yourself? Would love to hear about your personal experience if you have!

I've actually tried Allbirds and Reebok's Cotton+Corn, and I can share my thoughts. Allbirds are super comfy, I loved my Tree Dasher 2s for casual runs, but I found they didn't hold up as well as I expected for more intense training. Reebok's Cotton+Corn, on the other hand, felt really unique - the castor bean material is surprisingly durable and breathable. I was a bit skeptical at first, but they actually performed well on my longer runs. That being said, the fit was a bit tricky for me, so I'd recommend trying them on before buying. If you're looking for a more minimalist feel, Vivobarefoot is worth checking out, but like @zoemoore73 mentioned, the transition can be tough. Have you considered checking out some reviews or YouTube comparisons to get a better feel for the brands?