Breaking Up With My Air Force 1s
- Amanda Tenzlinger (she/her/hers)
- Oct 17, 2020
- 3 min read
Updated: Dec 17, 2020
I have a good relationship with my Air Force 1s, don’t get me wrong. They have saved me from last minute outfit decisions and are one of the few shoes I own that don’t give me blisters. But, as I examine them, my two year relationship must come to an end. The soles are torn, the original white color is now a dingy yellow, and don’t get me started with the creasing at the front. Maybe I could’ve taken better care of them, but both the physical and emotional attraction to this popular sneaker are starting to fade away. Besides, fashion trends are constantly changing and when they die, they eventually resurrect back to us. So while I give my precious Air Force 1s a break, it would be nice to find a new shoe to take its place for now.
Here are my top 5 sneaker recommendations that are sustainable and in trend to wear for the fall season. I will be rating each one under three categories: style, sustainability, and price. Affordability was a factor I kept in mind while researching, and for that reason my selections cost about $100 each. So no, I’m not putting the Dior high-tops on the list because not everyone has $1,100 lying around.
5. Nike Air Force 1 Type 2 ‘Triple White’ Sneaker
I don’t think this list would be complete if I didn’t start off with a Nike sneaker. I like to call these the “I want to be basic but not too basic” sneaker. This style is for people who want a shoe similar to Nike Air Force 1 but don’t want to go too much out of their comfort zone. Although it isn’t the most sustainable option, Nike has been evolving and improving their manufacturing methods, and launched a sustainability initiative called “Move to Zero” back in 2019.
Style Rating: 9/10
Sustainability Rating: 7/10
Price Rating: 7/10
4. Converse Run Star Hike Sneaker
Ok I’m not going to lie, at first I didn’t like the Converse Run Star Hike sneaker; but overtime, the spikey gum sole grew on me. I remember telling myself that Converse was never going back in style after wearing the classic black Chuck Taylor All Stars everyday in middle school… but I was wrong. I see these as a more modern version of their traditional shoe, which is a big step for Converse. Since Converse is owned by Nike, they have also improved now adding up-cycled textiles and recycled cotton canvas blends to their manufacturing processes.
Style Rating: 8/10
Sustainability Rating: 6/10
Price Rating: 7/10
3. Veja Rio Branco Sneaker
Suede is a trend to watch out for this fall, but how can it still be sustainable? Becoming more popular last year, Veja is a great, simple go-to sneaker brand known for its eco-friendly materials. There are 100% vegan options to choose from. This particular shoe uses vegetable-tanned leather, a chrome-free leather using only organic compounds. If you like the iconic New Balance 574 style, you’ll definitely want to get your hands on these!
Style Rating: 8/10
Sustainability Rating: 9/10
Price Rating: 7/10
2. Dr. Martens Vegan 1461 Felix Oxford Shoe
Ok you caught me, oxfords technically aren’t sneakers but I decided to include them to the list because they are on the rise. I think they’ve become so popular because of how versatile they are! You can wear them with jeans and a t-shirt or a jacket and a mini dress. Dr. Martens first released their vegan collection back in 2011, but who says there’s an expiration date?
Style Rating: 9/10
Sustainability Rating: 10/10
Price Rating: 8/10
1. Beyond Skin Faux Leather Chunky Vegan Loafers
After hours of trying to find the best sneaker possible to recommend, I decided to settle with a pair of loafers instead. Loafers are HUGE right now! Beyond Skin is a super underrated brand that sells a range of 100% vegan loafers. So if you don’t like the tassel or the chunky platform, you can find a flatter pair without one. However, one thing to keep in mind is this is the most expensive shoe out of the bunch… but the quality and style makes it a smart investment in my opinion!
Style Rating: 10/10
Sustainability Rating: 10/10
Price Rating: 6/10
Overall, my favorite shoe out of the 5 would have to be the loafers. Adding them to my personal style would be a risk, but I believe fashion is all about taking risks! Maybe my new relationship will be with Beyond Skin’s Vegan Loafers...
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