There’s a sound that screams summer—and no, it’s not crashing waves or sizzling barbecue. It’s that familiar “flip-flop, flip-flop” of sandals on hot pavement. It’s the sound of out-of-office mode, beach days, and doing absolutely nothing. Flip flops have been around for thousands of years (thanks, ancient Egyptians), but today, they’re more than just footwear—they’re a lifestyle.
But here’s the not-so-chill part: most flip flops are a total environmental buzzkill. We’re talking billions of pairs made every year, most of them cheap, plastic-based, and built to last only a season. After that? Straight to the trash. In fact, around 95% of shoes end up in landfills. Yikes.
Luckily, the flip flop world is getting a serious glow-up. A new generation of brands is flipping the script (pun fully intended) by transforming waste into seriously cool, comfortable, and eco-conscious sandals. Let’s dive into the world of sustainable flip flops that do good and look good!
The Flip Flop Problem, Explained
Let’s break it down. Most basic flip flops are made from something called EVA, short for ethylene-vinyl acetate. It’s a lightweight, cushiony foam that’s waterproof and comfy—basically everything you want in beachwear. The problem? It’s made from petroleum, and it doesn’t biodegrade. Like… ever.
Your trusty summer sandals might last you a few months, but they’ll stick around in landfills for up to 500 years. And when they break down, they turn into microplastics—tiny bits of plastic that end up in the ocean and mess with marine life.
Even worse, recycling EVA isn’t really a thing (it’s expensive and not widely supported), so most flip flops are destined for the dump before they even leave the store shelf.
Enter: The Flip Flop Revolution
The good news? The industry’s waking up. Brands are getting creative and asking, “What if we kept the comfort, but ditched the plastic?” That simple shift is powering a wave of innovation—and some seriously awesome flip flops.
What They’re Made Of Now (It’s Cooler Than You Think)
Here’s a quick tour of the new materials making waves in the flip flop world:
♻️ Plastic Bottles → Straps
That water bottle you recycled last week? It could be living its best second life as part of your sandal. Plastic bottles are cleaned, melted, and spun into rPET—recycled polyester yarn that’s soft, durable, and perfect for straps.
- Teva uses REPREVE® yarn (100% recycled plastic bottles) for all their iconic straps. Over 40 million bottles have been transformed so far.
- Reef follows suit, using certified rPET for their straps and linings—so your beach gear helps clean the ocean.
🛞 Old Tires → Outsoles
Tires are tough—really tough. That’s why they’re such a problem in landfills… but also why they make perfect soles.
- Ecoalf (the “No Planet B” brand from Spain) grinds up old tires and turns them into 100% recycled flip flops.
- Indosole goes bold with chunky, tire-based platform soles. Yes, you can be eco and elevated.
- Other brands like Gumbies and Nae are also hopping on the tire train.
🌱 Plants → Foam
Who says foam has to come from oil? Enter plant-based alternatives that still give you that squishy comfort, minus the guilt.
- Recycled EVA (rEVA): Brands like SAOLA and LightFeet recycle old EVA foam from shoes and scraps to make new soles.
- Sugarcane EVA: This is a big one. Reef and Native Shoes use sugarcane to make a bio-based foam that’s comfy, renewable, and carbon-neutral in production.
- Algae & Soy Foams: Some brands, like Oka-B, go even further, using US-grown soy and algae-based foam to cut out fossil fuels entirely.
Our Favorite Earth-Friendly Flips (You’ll Love These)
We rounded up the best of the best. Whether you’re lounging poolside or hitting the trails, there’s a sustainable flip flop for you.
| Brand | What It’s Made Of | Vibe | Price Range | Vegan? |
| Reef | Sugarcane EVA, rPET straps | Classic surfer comfort | $$ | Select styles |
| Teva | rPET REPREVE® straps | Adventure-ready durability | $$ | Select styles |
| Ecoalf | Recycled tires, polyester | Bold eco statement | $$ | Yes |
| Oka-B | Soy-based resin, recycled factory scrap | American-made + circular | $ | Yes |
| Asportuguesas | Cork + natural rubber | Chic, earthy Euro style | $$ | Yes |
| Sea Sense | Natural rubber | Minimal, plastic-free, ocean-loving | $ | Yes |
| Feelgoodz | Fair Trade rubber, rice husks | Natural, artisan-made | $ | Yes |
| Rothy’s | 3D-knit rPET (bottles) | Stylish, washable luxury | $$$ | Yes |
Brand Spotlights: Why We’re Obsessed
Reef is the cool, surfy brand you know and love—but now with sugarcane soles and plastic-free straps. Eco never looked this good.
Teva is a favorite for hikers, campers, and river rats. Their recycled bottle straps are tough, comfy, and trail tested.
Ecoalf takes sustainability seriously. Their entire vibe is “save the planet,” and their tire flip flops look and feel amazing.
Oka-B is made in the USA with soy-based bio-resin. Bonus: they’ll recycle your worn-out pair if you send them back. That’s a true circular style.
Asportuguesas blends cork and rubber into carbon-negative soles. They’re light, comfy, and look like nothing else out there.
Sea Sense funds ocean cleanups with every pair sold. Five stars for purpose-driven beachwear.
Feelgoodz pairs Fair Trade with fair wages. Their artisan-made flips feel great and do good.
Rothy’s brings their signature knit-from-recycled-bottles magic to sandals. Chic, zero-waste, and machine-washable? Yes, please.
Final Thoughts
Here’s the bottom line: you don’t have to choose between looking good and doing good. Today’s sustainable flip flops are stylish, affordable, and surprisingly high-performance. Whether you care about the ocean, reducing plastic, or supporting ethical labor, there’s a pair with your name on it.
So next time you’re shopping for summer sandals, check the label. Look for sugarcane, rPET, recycled rubber, or natural materials. Ask yourself: Will this last? Is it doing less harm—or doing really good?
Because the future of fashion isn’t just about trends—it’s about impact. And every step counts.
It’s time to Do Life Right!
Check out the best flip flop reviews, flip flop advice and flip flop philosophy on how to live a flip flop life!
