The sustainable footwear market is anticipated to grow at a significant CAGR of 6.2% during the forecast period. The footwear industry following the new trend of sustainability using traditional recycling and biodegradable technique to deliver new product innovations in the market. The growth of sustainable footwear is primarily influenced by the rising eco-consciousness across the globe. Moreover, many startups have emerged all across the globe in the market which is working on the sustainable footwear market in the last decade. Additionally, global brands are also planning to produce their products using sustainable ways and lean heavily towards recycled materials in the upcoming years. For instance, in 2020, Adidas AG has aimed to produce 15 to 20 million pairs of shoes using recycled plastic waste from beaches and coastal regions.

However, the high cost associated with sustainable footwear is expected to restraint the growth of the market. In addition to this, the low awareness regarding sustainable product advantages and the lack of environmental concerns in consumers are also anticipated to challenge the growth of the sustainable footwear market during the forecast period.

Segmental Outlook 

The global sustainable footwear market is segmented based on type and end-users. Based on the type, the market is sub-segmented into athletic and non-athletic. Based on the end-users, the market is sub-segmented into men, women, and children.

The women segment will grow with a considerable growth rate

The women's footwear segment is anticipated to grow with a significant CAGR in the sustainable footwear market during the forecast period. The majority of global footwear companies have started targeting female consumers which in turn will increase the shares of the segment in near future. Women consumers, especially in developed countries such as the US and UK, are becoming more and more aware of the sustainable choices in footwear, hence the demand for sustainable footwear from the female consumer is rising. Moreover, the availability of wider options of sustainable female footwear will also motivate the growth of the market. For instance, in May 2019, Reformation launched a line of footwear that contains flats, loafers, mules, boots, heels, and many more aiming at female consumers. 

Global Sustainable footwear Market Share by End-Users, 2019 (%)

Regional Outlooks

The global sustainable footwear market is further segmented based on geography into North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, and the Rest of the World. North America is expected to witness significant growth in the sustainable footwear market. The growth can be attributed to the increasing consciousness among people regarding the negative environmental impacts of animal-derived shoes and their subsequent ethical issues. Additionally, North America is also home to a range of global footwear distributors and retailers’ brands which is also expected to impact the region’s market share. In addition to this, more and more footwear companies are adopting sustainable ways of production owing to the presence of strict environmental and animal laws across the region.

Global Sustainable Footwear Market Growth, by Region 2020-2026

Asia-Pacific will witness a substantial growth rate

Asia-Pacific is anticipated to witness substantial growth in the market owing to the small market share and increasing awareness related to products. Moreover, a large population base in South Asia is vegetarian/vegan, which promotes non-violence with animals. Increasing awareness related to sustainable products will motivate market growth in the region. 

Market Players Outlook

The key players of the sustainable footwear market include Adidas AG, Allbirds, Inc., Everlane, Inc., Rothy's, Inc., VEJA, and others. The market players are considerably contributing to the market growth by the adoption of various strategies including mergers, and acquisitions, funding to the start-ups, and new product launch to stay competitive in the market.

• In December 2019, Reebok America, Inc. launched its first plant-based performance running shoe named Forever Floatride Grow. The shoe’s cushioned midsole is constructed of castor beans which are making the shoes launch their biggest advancement in sustainability.
• In April 2019, Everlane Inc. launched a unisex sneaker called Trainer that is made from recycled plastic, rubber, and leather. With the launch of the sneaker, the company had fulfilled its commitment to sustainability taken 2 years ago.
• In 2019, Adidas AG tested its first fully recyclable running shoe called Futurecraft Loop. The market launch for the shoe is planned for 2021 by the company. 

The Report Covers

• Market value data analysis of 2019 and forecast to 2026.
• Annualized market revenues ($ million) for each market segment.
• Country-wise analysis of major geographical regions.
• Key companies operating in the global sustainable footwear market. Based on the availability of data, information related to new product launches, and relevant news is also available in the report.
• Analysis of business strategies by identifying the key market segments positioned for strong growth in the future.
• Analysis of market-entry and market expansion strategies.
• Competitive strategies by identifying ‘who-stands-where’ in the market.