Here are highly regarded sustainable sandals (recycled or natural materials), why they’re considered sustainable, and where to find them in/near Australia. I’ve focused on brands and models with clear use of recycled plastics, sugarcane or tree fibres, cork/latex footbeds, or durable repairable construction.

Top sustainable sandals

• Birkenstock (Arizona, Gizeh, etc.)

  • Why: Iconic cork–latex footbed made from natural cork, natural latex and jute; long-lived design that reduces replacements. Birkenstock documents their use of cork, jute and water‑based adhesives and emphasizes repairability and durability. (Birkenstock.com)
  • Where to buy (AU): Birkenstock stores and major retailers (online and bricks‑and‑mortar).

• Allbirds (Tree Lounger / Sugar‑based soles and flip styles)

  • Why: Uses plant‑based materials (eucalyptus tree fibre uppers for “Tree” range) and SweetFoam / sugarcane‑derived midsole materials in some sandals/flip options; strong carbon‑reduction messaging. Good for everyday casual wear. (Allbirds.com.au)
  • Where to buy (AU): Allbirds Australia website.

• Xero Shoes (Genesis, Z-Trail and other minimalist sandals)

  • Why: Minimalist, lightweight sandals with durable rubber outsoles and simple construction that uses fewer materials; brand emphasizes long life, repairability and low‑impact designs (recent coverage praises durability and warranty). Good if you want low‑material, long‑lasting footwear. (theguardian.com)
  • Where to buy (AU): Xero Shoes online; selected retailers.

• Teva and Chaco (sustainable lines)

  • Why: Both brands have introduced recycled webbing/straps and recycled rubber outsoles in many models; Chaco and Teva prioritise durable outdoor designs and some takeback/recycling initiatives. Good for hiking/water use. (sustainablereview.com)
  • Where to buy (AU): Outdoor retailers and brand sites.

• Native Shoes (Jefferson/Origi‑type water‑friendly sandals)

  • Why: Uses sugarcane‑based EVA and focuses on circular design and recycled materials in many styles — lightweight, washable and budget friendly. (thegoodtrade.com)
  • Where to buy (AU): Native Shoes Australia.

• Vivobarefoot (minimalist sandals)

  • Why: Focus on low‑impact materials and repairable, long‑lasting minimalist designs; some models incorporate recycled materials and natural leathers. Good for barefoot enthusiasts. (sustainablereview.com)
  • Where to buy (AU): Vivobarefoot online and specialty shops.

• Salt‑Water Sandals (classic leather option)

  • Why: Made of leather with simple construction, long‑lasting and repairable — a natural‑material choice if you prefer plant/animal‑based, long‑life sandals rather than synthetics. Look for vegetable‑tanned or responsibly sourced leather options. (Brand info and long history on retailer sites.) (legendfootwear.co.uk)

How I selected these

• Materials: emphasis on natural cork/latex/jute (Birkenstock), plant fibres or sugarcane‑derived foams (Allbirds, Native), recycled webbing/rubber (Teva, Chaco), and minimal‑material designs (Xero, Vivobarefoot). Sources above document those materials or independent reviews that highlight durability and sustainability. (Birkenstock.com)

Quick buying tips (Australia)

• Choose durable/repairable: A long-lived sandal is more sustainable than a short‑lived “eco” product. Birkenstock, Chaco and Xero are good on longevity. (Birkenstock.com)
• Prefer verified materials: Look for clear material statements (e.g., “cork‑latex footbed”, “sugarcane SweetFoam”, “recycled PET straps”) on product pages rather than marketing alone. (Allbirds.com.au)
• Consider use case: Water and active sandals benefit from recycled‑rubber soles and quick‑dry webbing (Teva/Chaco/Native); everyday slides can favour plant‑based foams or cork footbeds.
• Check local availability and returns: Buying in Australia from local stock reduces shipping footprint and makes returns/repairs easier.

If you’d like, I can:

• Narrow this to “best for walking/hiking”, “best for beach/water”, or “best budget eco sandals” with 3–5 model recommendations and local AU prices/retailers.
• Look up specific models and current Australian prices/stock for any brand above (I’ll check availability and list exact product pages).