Crocs Alternatives: 5 Comfy Shoes That Are Better for the Planet
Crocs: they’re an unlikely fashion phenomenon that changed casual footwear forever.
But they aren’t the only ones to make a splash in the easy-breezy-booties game. If plastic footwear has you worried about more than one kind of footprint, we’ve got you (and your toes) covered.
Find the perfect bio-based Crocs alternative for you, your kids, or anyone in your life in need of a comfortable slip-on shoe.
No matter what you love about Crocs, we found some clogs, slippers, and sandals that are light on your feet and easy on the environment.
What is a “Crocs Alternative,” Exactly? Why Switch?
The chunky plastic clogs that Crocs made famous are divisive in their style, to say the least. No matter how you feel about them as a fashion statement, there’s no denying that there are some definite perks to the form and function of the style. But do they have to be plastic?
Plastic shoes are not only harmful to produce, but they can also contribute to the crisis of microplastics in the environment. Luckily for your feet—and the fish—Crocs are far from the only brand offering convenient, comfortable, versatile slippers.
Are Crocs sustainable?
It’s fair to say that, as far as eco-friendliness goes, Crocs could be worse, but they could also be much better.
The popular slippers are made of a type of proprietary resin using PEVA or EVA. It’s a plastic material that uses fossil fuel components, meaning it’s not biodegradable or compostable.
Crocs is working to improve sustainability in its manufacturing by using bio-based materials, but there is some way to go before the shoes can be called truly “eco-friendly.”
What to Look For in an Alternative to Crocs
What you shop for in an alternative shoe will all depend on what you like about Crocs. Since plastic is the problem, look for shoes that meet all your needs without compromising on sustainability.
Opt for comfy slip-ons made with bio-based, eco-friendly materials, and you’ll be sure to find a shoe you can feel good about.
Top 6 Crocs Alternatives: How We Chose
We narrowed down our list of top not-Crocs by considering what exactly people love about the shoes. Here’s how we chose the best alternatives:
- Material: You’re here for eco-friendly footwear, so that’s what you’ll get! We only selected products that use sustainable, bio-based, or vegan materials in their shoes.
- Style: We looked for variety in shape, color, fit, and design so you can find the slipper that speaks to you.
- Durability: Your shoes have a big job to do, so you need products that can stand up to the daily wear-and-tear of walking, skipping, shimmying, shuffling, or whatever else you want to do in them!
Our Picks
All featured products are chosen at the discretion of the author and DGHQ editors. However, Do Good HQ may make a small affiliate commission if you click through and make a purchase.
1. KANE Revive: Best for Athletes
| Certifications | B Corporation |
| Material | Bio-based foam |
| Made For | Adults |
This stylish alternative to Crocs is more than a Swiss-cheese-style sneaker—it’s a recovery shoe designed to comfort, soothe, and support your tired feet. The textured insole has small nodes that help improve blood flow, and the thick foam heel offers an extra level of shock absorption.
Pros
- Made with proprietary foam derived from renewable Brazilian sugarcane, lowering environmental impact.
- Water-resistant and quick-drying, so they won’t stay soggy after rain or workouts.
- Easy to clean with just soap and water—no special care needed.
- Supportive, cushioned design ideal for recovery after activity.
Cons
- Extreme heat can warp the foam, so they shouldn’t be left in hot cars.
- Not safe to wash in dishwashers or washing machines, requiring hand-cleaning.
- They may feel less breathable than fabric-based alternatives.
2. Oboz Unisex Whakata Coast Mule & Clog: Best for Casual Wear
| Certifications | B Corporation |
| Material | Bio-based EVA and rubber |
| Made For | Adults |
These are the foot-friendly Crocs alternative for those who love a slide-on slipper. Made with bio-based EVA and durable rubber, they offer sculpted arch support and extra sturdy traction. The dual-density design means softer foam for your feet and durable support below.
Pros
- Breathable design with plenty of ventilation to keep feet cool and comfortable.
- Available in a wide variety of colors to match personal style.
- Durable rubber outsole provides reliable traction indoors and out.
- Versatile enough to work as both house slippers and casual everyday shoes.
Cons
- Not as snug or supportive as some structured alternatives.
- Runs large, which may require sizing down for the best fit.
- The wide build may feel too roomy for narrow feet.
3. Chaco Women’s Canyon Woven Clog – Best for Outdoor Adventures
| Certifications | Not listed |
| Material | Recycled plastic webbing, polyester, suede |
| Made For | Women |
If you need an outdoorsy Croc alternative, Chaco has the clogs you’ve been looking for. The handwoven webbing is strong yet breathable, and better yet, it’s made from recycled water bottles. The extra-grippy tread is strong enough to handle wet surfaces, so you can stride safely and in style.
Pros
- Soft, supportive, podiatrist-approved footbeds designed for all-day comfort.
- Built with recycled materials, including webbing made from old water bottles.
- Backed by Chaco’s repair program, which helps extend the life of your shoes and reduce waste.
- Durable enough for outdoor adventures while still casual for everyday wear.
Cons
- Slightly heavier feel compared to ultra-light foam clogs.
- Runs small, so sizing up is often recommended.
- Non-wicking webbing can stay damp if exposed to water.
4. Will’s Vegan Store Clog Footbed Sandals: Best Fashion-Forward Option
| Certifications | Not listed |
| Material | Vegan leather, vegan suede, cork, rubber, metal |
| Made For | Women |
Did someone say vegan leather Crocs alternatives? We just did! These fashion-forward sandals have footbeds with added arch support and a shock-absorbing cork sole for lasting comfort. A silky vegan suede lining means you can rock them with or without socks.
Pros
- Certified carbon-neutral product.
- Shipped and returned through carbon-neutral services, reducing overall footprint.
- Durable, grippy outsoles made from recycled rubber for eco-friendly traction.
- Backed by a generous one-year return policy for peace of mind.
Cons
- Not as secure as other clogs with more structured uppers.
- Sleek suede interior may cause some slipping, especially without socks.
- This shoe is less breathable due to its closed-toe design and limited ventilation.
5. Native Jefferson Cozy Child: Best for Kids
| Certifications | Not listed |
| Material | Bio-based EVA |
| Made For | Kids |
Durability, convenience, and comfort are everything in a kid’s Crocs alternative. That’s why this cozy slipper from Native is a must. The recycled fleece lining, bio-based EVA exterior, and shock-absorbing sole make it a warm and comfy choice for kiddos on the go.
Pros
- Made with sustainable sugarcane-based EVA for an eco-friendly, lightweight design.
- Wide opening makes them easy for kids to slip on and off without help.
- Cozy fleece lining keeps little feet warm after swimming or during chilly days.
- Shock-absorbing sole provides comfort and protection for playtime.
Cons
- Limited use as a year-round shoe due to seasonal warmth.
- Fleece lining can feel too warm in the hot summer months.
- Less breathable than mesh or knit alternatives.
6. Allbirds Tree Dasher Relay: Best for Daily Wear
| Certifications | Certified B Corporation, FSC-certified materials |
| Material | TENCEL™ Lyocell (eucalyptus tree fiber) upper, SweetFoam® midsole made from sugarcane-based green EVA, Natural rubber outsole |
| Made For | Men and Women |
If you’re seeking a sustainable, slip-on sneaker that doesn’t compromise on performance, the Allbirds Tree Dasher Relay fits the bill. This laceless shoe features a breathable eucalyptus fiber upper and a cushioned midsole crafted from renewable sugarcane. Whether you’re heading out for a light jog or running errands, these sneakers offer both style and eco-conscious construction.
Pros:
- Made from leftover stock yarns, each pair boasts a one-of-a-kind color variation.
- Machine-washable.
- Feature a seamless upper.
- Are constructed with renewable materials.
Things to Consider
- Others looking for substantial arch support may need additional insoles.
- Some users have noted that the laceless design may require a brief break-in period.
7. Rothy’s “The Casual Clog:” Best Recycled Option
| Certifications | Not listed |
| Material | Recycled plastic knit, bio-based TPU, natural rubber |
| Made For | Women |
If you want a city-ready clog that’s just as sustainable as it is stylish, Rothy’s has you covered. The Clog features the brand’s signature knit made from recycled plastic bottles. It is widely touted as flexible and breathable. The sturdy lug sole adds traction, while the chic, minimalist design goes with everything.
Pros:
- Like all of Rothy’s shoes, these clogs are machine washable, so you can keep them looking fresh and lasting longer than your average clog.
- Even better, the brand manufactures in a fully owned workshop with a strong commitment to zero-waste production and circular design.
Cons:
- These clogs don’t have adjustable straps or laces, so fit matters. Some users find they run a bit narrow.
- They also aren’t designed for rugged outdoor wear, so opt for urban strolls or rocky trails.
How to Choose the Best Crocs Alternative
So now that you have some options, how can you pick the perfect shoe? Here are some questions to help you figure out which slipper, sandal, or clog will get the job done:
- Where and how will you use them? Consider the tread type, comfort features, breathability, fit, and material based on how you want to use your shoes.
- Should you choose water-friendly or indoor only? Do you want to wear them in the locker room shower, when gardening, around the house, or after the gym?
- Is color important to you? Some products have more color variations than you can count on two hands, while others just have one. You may be able to narrow your choices if you love having lots of colorful options.
- What’s your budget? There is a wide range of prices when it comes to Crocs alternatives. It all depends on the brand, style, size, and quality. Fortunately, there are plenty of great options for almost every budget.
- Which materials are best? Look for sugarcane-based EVA, natural rubber, recycled plastics, and other eco-friendly, plastic-free options.
- Support and comfort: what matters most? Look for molded footbeds, wide toe boxes, and breathable uppers.
You can tell a lot about a person by their shoes. By choosing Crocs alternatives that are as friendly to the Earth as they are to your feet, you can walk with an extra bit of confidence that you’re doing yourself—and the planet—a favor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Still have questions about finding Crocs-like comfort without the plastic footprint? You’re in the right place. Below, we’ve gathered some of the most common questions we hear about eco-conscious alternatives.
You May Also Like
If you’re planning to travel with your alternative crocs, check out our guide to nontoxic luggage!
References
Crocs “Comfort for the Planet” Sustainability Page
Featured image via Kane Footwear
