3 CHIC WOOL SNEAKERS FOR EVERY SEASON

It’s that time of year when we need to talk about breathable footwear. As sandals and flip-flops get tucked away for more practical closed-toe options, it’s worth thinking about shoes that work in the transition from warm days to cooler ones.

While most of us associate wool with winter, its natural properties make it an all-year-round material. Wool regulates temperature beautifully - keeping you warm when it’s cold and cool when it’s hot. It naturally wicks away moisture, allowing your skin to breathe, and its fibres are incredibly airy, so even in the heat, your feet stay cool and fresh. Those same fibres also create tiny air pockets that act as insulation, forming a natural barrier against the cold without trapping sweat or odour.

It’s also one of the world’s most sustainable materials. Wool is renewable (sheep grow a fresh fleece every year), biodegradable, and uses less energy to produce than many synthetic fibres. Beyond fashion, it’s already being used in insulation, fire-resistant luggage, air filters for spacesuits, and even packaging for veg box deliveries.

So if you’re looking to invest in sneakers that go beyond trends – shoes that prioritise comfort, breathability, and a lighter footprint on the planet – here are three woolly sneakers worth knowing about, available in both men’s and women’s styles.

THE ALLBIRDS WOOL CRUISER

Allbirds have always been known for their innovative use of wool – it’s been a signature material since the very beginning. Earlier this year, they unveiled the futuristic-looking M0.0NSHOT Zero, which they named the world’s first net zero carbon shoe. Just 500 pairs were released, alongside their RECIPE B0.0K – an open-sourced toolkit showing exactly how they created a net zero shoe. It was their free contribution to the industry, built on the belief that when it comes to reversing climate change, copycats aren’t just welcome, they’re essential.

Those pairs sold out quickly, but now their Wool Cruisers have arrived in stores in 14 colourways. The vibrant, eco-friendly upper is made entirely from recycled wool felt, spun from post-consumer knitwear. In other words: your old jumper has been given a second life – on your feet.

THE VIVOBAREFOOT MOTUS STUDIO SNEAKER

Barefoot shoes are my everyday go-to. While I’ll always choose thick-soled trainers over heels with my long-length jeans, when it comes to working out or spending hours on my feet, nothing beats a barefoot pair of trainers.

Vivobarefoot recently launched a wool-blend edition of their popular MOTUS STUDIO sneaker – and yes, it’s barefoot. With just a 3mm sole between you and the ground, it’s brilliant for proprioception, posture, and building foot strength.

Made from their most natural-ever knit – a mix of wool and TENCEL™ – the design is inspired by woodland textures and sculpted to hug the foot. The result is a performance sneaker that lets you feel every sensation, whether you’re walking, training, dancing, or just letting loose.

The white version has already sold out, but they’re still available in black and pink trainer styles, plus a sleek, no-laces sock-boot version in black.

THE GLERUPS LANGDAL

Glerups began back in the 1970s, when Nanny Glerup first learned the art of felting and crafted a pair of wool boots for her husband who wore them everywhere. The reaction from friends and neighbours was so enthusiastic that it soon grew into a small local production. What started as a handmade gift has since evolved into a global brand, celebrated for its cosy natural-wool footwear, craftsmanship, and sustainable values.

The Langdal is their take on a classic sneaker. Made from 100% pure natural wool, soft chrome-free leather, natural rubber, and organic cotton and available in timeless colourways like all black and all cream, as well as green and pink. They’re incredibly soft and cosy inside, and generously roomy (so no need to size up if you like space in your shoes).

In line with their Project Zero Waste, the insole and midsole are made with coconut fibre – a by-product of the food industry – adding softness and comfort underfoot while making use of materials that would otherwise go to waste.