I run-tested the best sustainable running shoes on the market in 2025

A new breed of sustainable running shoe is hitting the streets. We take a look at the main contenders

When it comes to sustainability, the running shoe industry has not always been at the front of the queue. Brands have had some green innovations but they have often been lone wolves against a sea of consumerism. But that is starting to change. Sustainable running shoes are growing. Big brands like Brooks and On Running have made sustainability part of their agenda and a number of new brands have entered the marketplace with a promise to reduce waste, conserve resources and minimise the carbon footprint of the production process.

What makes a shoe ‘sustainable running shoe’?

Recycled materials: many brands are now using polyester made from recycled plastics. More than a decade ago, Brooks unveiled a shoe called the Green Silence. It was lightyears ahead of its time, using a heel counter made from recycled CDs and an upper made from recycled plastic bottles. It was a very minimal shoe and, sadly, only stayed in line for a couple of years. But the new breed of eco-friendly shoes look to have longevity built in to their DNA.

Environmental impact: this includes reducing carbon emissions, responsible use of chemicals and water, or use of biodegradable elements, which will activate when the item is discarded. It also includes brands that work with local charities to support communities and ensure fair working practices throughout the supply chain. 

Bio-based materials: using renewable resources, like plant-based materials, while maintaining an excellent level of cushioning and support is still challenging, but brands are forging ahead and we are already seeing some impressive results. ‘Step-in feel’ is still critical: consumers do not want to compromise on comfort just for the sake of being seen to be green.

This is the best sustainable running shoe we’ve tried in 2025

Blazing a trail for the new breed of eco shoes, the Hylo Impact matches green credentials with performance in a shoe that is ideal for marathon miles or when you want to push the pace.

Other sustainable running shoe recommendations

Best for energy return	The responsiveness and resilience of the foam in the Zen FUTUREone are designed to provide exciting levels of performance
Best for shorter distances	With a 6mm drop and high stack height, the Cirkle Supernatural Runner hits that sweet spot of cushioning and fit; weighing in at less than 300g it also feels extremely light on foot
Best for longer distances	The Saucony RFG is a great sustainable running shoe for long, steady mileage when you want a max-cushioned shoe to combat the roads underfoot

Hylo Impact

A lot of thought has gone into the Hylo Impact, launched early in 2024 and already making big waves in the ‘eco’ market. First and foremost, this is a supremely comfortable shoe. With a luxurious midsole that feels like running bowling-green grass, the Hylo Impact provides a supremely comfortable shoe for those long training miles. Its stable platform ensures a smooth ride, while the energy return boosts speed sessions effortlessly. Innovation is at the heart of this shoe: the outsole is inspired by Formula 1 and features multiple vertical strips that grip most surfaces effortlessly.

The fit is excellent, although those with a wider foot might struggle through the midfoot. This is a neutral shoe and, as such, is pretty stable but for moderate over-pronates the softness of the midsole might not provide enough support. Green measures include a lightweight knitted upper made from 100% bio-based nylon derived from castor beans; a midsole made from supercritical nitrogen-injected foam with added bio-EVA to increase responsiveness and reduce weight; and an outsole made from 60% natural rubber.

Zen FUTUREOne

The FUTUREOne was unveiled with a bold claim to be the most sustainable running shoe on the market – while not compromising on performance. The durability of Zen’s unique Project 68 foam, with a 68% bio-content, promises to deliver more than the recommended 500km wear period, while the responsiveness and resilience of the foam are designed to provide exciting levels of performance. There’s no denying that it’s a good-looking shoe. The knitted and seamless upper of Zen’s shoe is made from responsibly sourced eucalyptus fibres which are biodegradable and the cultivation of the raw materials relies on natural rainfall, which uses 95% less water than conventional cotton and has a carbon footprint that is one-third lower than virgin nylon.

The FUTUREOne is built with performance in mind, sporting a 33mm stack in the heel for a responsive ride. And weighing in at just under 300g, it’s ideal for distances from 5K to a marathon. The upper feels supremely comfortable around your foot, with a solid heel counter locking you in. It does feel quite narrow and minimal width through the midfoot could also challenge runners that need a greater level of stability. The midsole – created from a base of 68% rapeseed oil – is pretty firm but delivers a surprisingly comfortable ride with good energy return. Meanwhile, the outsole is made from FSC-certified natural rubber, covering the heel and forefoot for maximum durability and providing excellent traction even in slippy conditions.

Circle Supernatural Runner

We’d not heard of Circle Sportswear, a running brand that puts the planet at the heart of its manufacturing ethos. The Supernatural Runner is it’s first shoe offering – and from initial testing it looks like they might be on to a winner. The shoe sports brand partnerships with various companies such as the Woolmark Company, Arkema and Lenzing. So, what does it feel like on foot?

With a 6mm drop and high stack height, it hits that sweet spot of cushioning and fit; weighing in at less than 300g it also feels extremely light on foot. The midsole is soft and supportive and the step-in feel is excellent. The heel counter doesn’t feel quite as stable as some others on test while the foot feels like it recesses quite a long way in to the shoe (runners with Achilles tendon issues might find their foot in the wrong position). The upper – which features the Woolmark label – is made from 65% Merino wool and offers excellent breathability. It hugs the foot well and offers a snug, comfortable fit. Made in Europe, the midsole uses PLNT-FOAM, a bio-based material derived from castor oil and injected using SuperCritical foaming technology. Meanwhile, the outsold is made from natural biodegradable rubber.

Saucony Triumph RFG

The Saucony Triumph marque has long-been a dependable, max-cushioned daily trainer with a generous fit. Premium has been the watchword for the shoe – and it continues to deliver that in spades. But, of course, like many other shoes from other brands that comes at a cost – not just in physical terms, but in its impact on the environment. The Triumph RFG (Run for Good) takes some left-of-centre thinking to deliver a shoe with sustainability at its heart. The Triumph RFG brings together dyes that are kinder to the planet with cushioning made using foam derived from corn. It is – as the brand says – a shoe that the planet will approve of.

But will wearers of the conventional Triumph notice the difference? Well, yes and no. The PWRRUN BIO+ cushioning (made using 55% corn-based foam) delivers a similar feel to the standard Triumph model, albeit a bit softer under foot. The cotton upper features plant-based dyes and feels comfortable on foot but somehow less breathable than its conventional cousin. Everything else about the Triumph RFG is what we’ve come to know and love about the Triumph – it’s just a great sustainable running shoe for long, steady mileage when you want a max-cushioned shoe to combat the roads underfoot.