Flip flops are probably one of the most convenient and versatile types of footwear out there, not to mention long-lasting and durable. However, did you know that most types of flip-flops aren’t that great for our planet?
The materials used are often non-recyclable, which is a big no-no for us at Trash Backwards. But not to worry, we have scoured high and low to find a list of the best biodegradable and eco-friendly flip flops to get you summer ready!
So, let’s jump right to it!
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HUGGOES Biodegradable Flip Flops
The HUGGOES biodegradable flip flops are designed with your comfort in mind. These women’s flip flops feature a foot-friendly structure that is both ideal for the beach or a shopping spree!
I like that they are also made out of 100% natural rubber, meaning they are way better for our environment. Plus, they are very flexible and fast-drying – which is what you want in a good pair of flip-flops.
The HUGGOES flip flops come in a vast variety of designs, so you can find the right tone to suit your style or even get a few pairs to switch around.
Last update on 2024-04-25 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Indosole Recycled Tire Flip Flops
While “tire flip flops” don’t exactly sound feminine nor comfy, the Indosole Recycled footwear is actually both super comfortable and stylish!
Founded by Kyle Parsons, he got the idea to create these flip-flops after visiting Bali and buying a pair of sandals made out of motorbike tires. This idea sparked his interest in recyclable flip-flops, which is why we have Indosole today.
The flip flops are waterproof and feature a nonslip design – which is well suited for the poolside. Plus, due to their sturdiness, they are suitable for more adventurous outdoor events.
We sure do like the sound of creating footwear out of recycled materials, which is why we want to recommend toddlers flip flops and recycled slides as well!
![Indosole Women's ESSNTLS Vegan Flip Flops [Reused Tire Sole, Natural Rubber Arch Support, ENVRO Strap, Waterproof], [Sport, Yoga, Skate, Surf], Size 4-5, Light Leaf/Sea Salt (Green/White)](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/31a4fcc-jtL.jpg "31a4fcc jtL | 13 Best Vegan, Eco Friendly & Recycled Flip Flops")
Last update on 2024-04-25 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Himalayan Pure Hemp Flip Flop
The Himalayan Pure Hemp flip flops are super durable and highly sustainable.
Hemp is a great resource, as it requires a little water to grow, and it’s naturally pest resistant. Plus, hemp also absorbs more CO2 than other plants and takes up less space during growing.
The flip flops are very comfy as well, and not to mention stylish!
WAVES
The flip flops are not only environmentally friendly, but they are fashionable as well!
The flip flops come in various fun colors such as Coral, Pitaya, Guapuru, and much more, so you can get a pair to match your style. Additionally, the materials used are 100% natural rubber, which is both comfortable and durable.
The rubber is ethically sourced in Sri Lanka, and the footwear is manufactured there as well.
Last update on 2024-04-25 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
OKABASHI
The Japanese OKABASHI women’s flip flops are inspired by reflexology and designed with our comfort in mind.
While the flip flops aren’t exactly biodegradable, they are, however, made out of a combination of 25% recycled and soy-based materials and are fully recyclable. Plus, there are no BPA’s, latex, or any other harmful substances included during the manufacturing process.
I like the overall design of the flip flops, which feature gentle massage beads and a comfy toe rest—ideal if you’re on your feet a lot. On top of that, they come with an anti-slip design, which is an important addition.
GUMBIES
come in many fun designs that give off a very summery vibe. The footwear is made out of various durable and eco-friendly materials, such as recycled rubber for the insole and an upcycled cork top layer. Everything is held together with jute – which is a type of tough natural fiber.
The flip-flops come in different sizes and are suitable for all ages. Plus, they are very comfy and convenient to wear for more extended periods.
Last update on 2024-04-25 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Sole Rebels
The sustainable Sole Rebels flip flops are ethically produced using vegan, Abyssinian pure leather. Their overall look is inspired by the Ethiopian “selate” and “barabasso” shoes, making them stand out.
The company started in Addis Ababa, where it continues today to produce ethical and sustainable footwear that is both cruelty-free and comfortable.
Last update on 2024-04-25 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Olli
Now for the men’s options, we have the Olli natural rubber flip flops, though there are women’s options as well.
These vegan flip-flops are designed with your comfort in mind. Plus, they are durable and they aren’t as “floppy” as other brands out there! Meaning they actually stay on your feet.
The only materials used are non-irritating, natural rubber – and nothing else.
Last update on 2024-04-25 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Feelgoodz
The Feelgoodz environmentally friendly flip flops are super comfortable and stylish at the same time.
I’m a fan of its earthy tone schemes, which are much easier to pair with summer outfits and just look more natural than the neon-bright tones.
The flip flops are designed for both men and women, and they are made out of 100% natural rubber and non-toxic dyes. You can rest assured that Feelgoodz footwear is both vegan and sustainable.
Last update on 2024-04-25 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Bumpers Massage Zero Waste Flip Flops
If you’re a fan of foot massages, then you might like the Bumpers Massage flip-flops!
Bumpers footwear features unique soles with small massaging bumps, which come with plenty of beneficial properties, including improving your foot and leg circulation and reducing swelling.
And to top it all off, the flip flops are made out of both natural and recycled rubber – ensuring an overall, zero-waste design.
Last update on 2024-04-25 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Rainbow Sandals Hemp Flip Flops
Since we are a fan of hemp, we are happy to introduce another pair of 100% natural hemp sandals on our guide.
Since they’re made out of hemp, this means the flip-flops are biodegradable. So once you’re done with your pair, you can rest assured that they won’t lie in a landfill somewhere for 100s of years.
Additionally, the sandals themselves are very comfortable with good arch support. You can also find options for both men and women.
Last update on 2024-04-25 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Sole
SOLE Women's Santa Cruz Flip Flops Black 8 offer great arch support and are very comfortable to wear. Users say that they simply mold to your feet after a couple of days, which is what you want with any type of footwear!
Plus, due to their design, the flip flops are also suitable for those of us with foot ailments like flat feet or other foot injuries. I also like that you can choose between different levels of firmness to find the best pair suited for you!
Interestingly enough, the flip flops are made out of Bloom Algae Foam and recycled wine cork. However, some parts, such as the EVA midsole or the PU straps, are non-recyclable. Yet we believe that due to their sturdiness, you’ll still get many years out of these flip-flops.
Last update on 2024-04-25 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Reef Women’s Bliss Nights Sandal
Last but not least, we have the Reef Women’s flip flops.
These flip flops are 100% synthetic, water-proof, and durable – making them suitable for any activity you’ve got planned for this summer.
Additionally, the flip flops include a soft rubber footbed making sure your feet remain comfortable all day long.
You can choose from a variety of color tones available, including Black, Rose Gold, and Copper. Plus, the footwear is 10% PVC-free and better for our environment.
Last update on 2024-04-25 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
The environmental impact of traditional flip-flops
The environmental impact of traditional flip-flops is a significant issue that often goes unnoticed. Most of these flip-flops are made of plastic or rubber, which are not biodegradable and take hundreds of years to decompose. Furthermore, the production of these materials requires significant amounts of energy and resources, which contributes to climate change and other environmental problems.
Additionally, traditional flip-flops are often produced under unethical working conditions. The supply chains for these products are often opaque, and workers may be subjected to low wages, poor working conditions, and other forms of exploitation. Ethical sandals, on the other hand, are made using sustainable materials and produced under fair working conditions.
Fortunately, there are alternatives to traditional flip-flops that are both environmentally friendly and comfortable. For example, there are now many sustainable sandals available that are made from natural materials like cork or hemp. These materials are not only biodegradable, but they also provide a comfortable and cushioned footbed.
Moreover, sustainable sandals are often designed to be water-resistant and quick-drying, making them perfect for use in water-friendly environments. Many of these sandals are also vegan, meaning they do not contain any animal products or byproducts. This is a great option for those who are looking for ethical and environmentally-friendly footwear.
One company that is leading the charge in sustainable and ethical sandals is Christy Dawn. They offer a variety of stylish and sustainable sandals that are made from natural materials and produced using ethical manufacturing practices. Their sandals are not only comfortable but also water-friendly, making them perfect for use at the beach or by the pool.
In conclusion, the environmental impact of traditional flip-flops is a real concern, but there are alternatives available that are both comfortable and sustainable. By choosing ethical sandals made from natural materials, we can reduce our environmental impact and promote fair working conditions in the supply chain.
What did you think about the flip-flops we covered today? Do you have a favorite pair? Let us know what you think in the comments below, and thanks for reading!
To get you beach-ready this summer, why not check out our top zero-waste lip balms to keep your lips both kissable and protected while lounging on the beach!
Anna Miller is a content manager at TrashBackwards. She’s passionate about living a zero-waste lifestyle. Anna has been writing about eco-friendly tips for years now, and she’s got some great ideas on how you can go plastic-free! She loves sharing her knowledge about eco-lifestyle with others. Her articles are always witty and insightful! Shoot her a message if you’ve got any questions about how you can start going green.
