my final take
Wills Vegan Shoes Review – The Best Biodegradable Footwear
Pros
- Fully Biodegradable
- 100% Vegan shoes
- Well made
- Comfortable
- 365 day return policy
- Good grip
Cons
- Not Cheap
- A bit heavy
- Limited color choice
- Looser than expected
My Honest Review
Will’s Vegan Store, a company known for its commitment to sustainability and ethical production, spent a year developing and creating its LDN Biodegradable Sneakers. A world first for this type of shoe.
These vegan shoes are made from a unique blend of biodegradable materials, including Tencel, organic cotton, wood fiber, and natural latex insoles, making them environmentally friendly, comfortable, and durable vegan shoes. This avoids the planned obsolescence of many “Fast Fashion” shoes.
They are also certified to EN 13432/EN 14995 and US ASTM D6400. In short, this means these shoes are biodegradable overall with many parts being compostable.
By gaining this accreditation, Will’s Vegan Store have made a positive step towards a more environmentally-friendly future in the fashion industry.
Will’s vegan shoes are produced in Portugal in a low emissions/carbon-neutral factory, delivered through a carbon-neutral supply chain, and in cardboard and paper packaging. All this under EU employment laws ensures fair treatment of employees.
In my review, we will take a closer look at the quality, design, performance, and eco-friendly features of these biodegradable Sneakers, which I have used for over 3 months in my quest to live more sustainably.
Other Reviews You Might be Interested in
Features
After using these Will’s Vegan Shoes daily for several months, I have to share the features below.
Quality/Durability:
Will’s Biodegradable Sneakers are a high-quality and durable option for sustainable and ethical footwear. Over the years, I have owned several similar shoes by mainstream brands, but they have yet to feel as well made.
These plastic-free shoes are durable and environmentally friendly, making them an excellent choice.
Comfort:
Will’s Vegan Sneakers are not only environmentally friendly, but they are also incredibly comfortable to wear. I recently walked 20000 steps around London and found them very comfortable.
The shoe’s upper part is made from a breathable material that allows your feet to breathe and is warm enough for cold winter days. I have not had any issues with comfort, but I have yet to try them on a warm summer’s day.
Previously, I have used sole inserts to improve the support of similar shoes, but this has yet to be needed. These sneakers have great support straight out of the box.
Fit:
The Sneakers fit well overall. Still, they were slightly looser than expected. Despite this, they are comfortable to wear and do not cause any discomfort.
I will go for a smaller size next time I order a pair.
Do they stretch:
I found they stretched less than traditional leather sneakers. However, the material used in these sneakers is flexible, loosening slightly after a few days of wear.
Waterproofing and breathability:
I have worn them in light rain and not gotten wet feet, but they are not water resistant, and heavy rain/puddles would be an issue.
The fabric is breathable, but I have yet to try this in hot weather. The material is well cushioned and may get warm/uncomfortable in hot conditions.
Versatility:
The sleek and modern design of these sneakers makes them suitable for various occasions, whether running errands, going to work, or getting out for a walk.
Sustainability:
Will’s Vegan Shoes are made from 100% vegan materials which do not harm any animals in the production process. Additionally, these sneakers are certified Biodegradable to EN 13432/EN 14995 and US ASTM D6400 standards, meaning they will break down eventually after disposal.
Value for money:
The price of Will’s Vegan Sneakers is high. Still, the quality and Biodegradable credentials justify the cost. They are also ethically produced in Portugal and vegan, making them an excellent choice for those looking to make a more conscious purchase.
Grip and stability:
The Grip and Stability of these sneakers are exceptional. The soles are made from a durable and eco-friendly material that provides excellent traction on various surfaces. Whether walking on pavement, gravel, or wet surfaces, I found that these shoes felt great. The grip and stability are top-notch, ensuring that you can walk confidently.
Positives and Negatives
My good vs bad breakdown.
Positives:
- Biodegradable: They are fully Biodegradable, and should decompose eventually when disposed of.
- Eco-friendly: Certified Carbon Neutral, the manufacturing methods and materials used at the factory in Portugal are sustainable and environmentally friendly, making them a positive choice for those looking to reduce their environmental impact.
- Durable: After months of daily use, the shoes still look great, and so far, I am very impressed.
- Guarantee: Will’s Vegan Store promise to refund/exchange as many times as needed for 365 days. Postage is also free of charge both ways.
- No Plastics: As certified biodegradable, they are also 100% free of fossil fuel-based plastics.
- Recyclable: When you’re ready to replace your vegan shoes, you can send them back to the company to be recycled and reused to produce new outsoles and uppers. This is free of charge.
- Easy to clean: Most general dirt can be easily removed using a sponge, mild soap, and warm water. For a thorough clean, you can use a washing machine on a cool wash with a towel to protect from the drum.
Negatives:
- High price: These are more expensive than most sneakers on the market. This is a significant factor for those looking for a more budget-friendly option. Still, the benefits of being eco-friendly and the superb return policy are worth the extra cost.
- Only 3 color options: The sneakers are available in white, black, and grey.
- Weight: Coming in at just over 500 grams compared to my runners, which are 300 grams.
- Bulky: The soles and uppers are solidly made with good cushioning, but this does make the shoes slightly bulkier than other options.
Wrapping Up
In conclusion, I am incredibly pleased with Will’s Vegan Shoes.
Not only are they ethically and sustainably made in Europe, but they are also extremely comfortable.
I highly recommend these shoes to anyone looking for an eco-friendly and vegan footwear option. I will definitely be purchasing more shoes from Will’s Vegan Store.
FAQ
What materials are used to make the LDN Biodegradable Sneakers?
These vegan shoes are made from biodegradable materials such as natural rubber and organic cotton, and will break down naturally over time and not contribute to pollution or waste.
They are certified to EN 13432/EN 14995 and US ASTM D6400 standards.
Are the LDN Sneakers vegan?
Yes, the LDN Biodegradable Sneakers are 100% vegan and do not use animal-derived materials.
How long does it take for the LDN Sneakers to decompose?
The exact decomposition time of the sneakers will depend on the environment they are in. However, the Biodegradable materials used in the sneakers are designed to break down eventually, no specific time limit is given.
How do I care for my Sneakers?
To care for your LDN Sneakers, wipe them down with a damp cloth when they get dirty and allow them to air dry. Avoid using harsh chemicals or excessive heat when cleaning them.
Or, put in a short cool wash cycle with a towel. This helps protect the shoes from the wash drum.
How can I purchase the LDN Sneakers?
The Sneakers can be purchased on the Will’s Vegan Store website or at select retailers.
Are these shoes suitable for different types of activities?
The LDN Biodegradable Sneakers are ideal for everyday wear and light activities such as walking and casual outings. They are not designed for more intense activities such as running or sports.
Can these shoes be worn in all types of weather?
The LDN Biodegradable Sneakers are suitable for most types of weather. Still, I would avoid prolonged exposure to heavy rain or water.
Is there a warranty on the shoes?
No warranty is specified, but there is a statement that if you have any quality issues or concerns, they will help you, and a 365-day exchange and returns policy.
Are they available in half sizes?
Yes, the shoes are available in whole and half sizes.
What is the return policy for the shoes?
The shoes can be returned or exchanged, free of charge for 365 days with their paperless carbon-neutral returns service, or after you have finished with them, use their return to recycle service when this product is at the end of its life. For details, see their website.
Are there any other sustainable practices used in the production of the shoes?
Will’s Vegan Store is committed to sustainable practices throughout production, including using eco-friendly packaging and reducing carbon emissions in shipping.
