Ross Oliver is a premium brand of men’s vegan shoes, designed by a science graduate who discovered the wonderful properties of soft cactus leather. Sold in several colours, these are super-smart for stylish men!
Cactus leather is one of the ‘new leathers’ made from plant materials and waste. Most leathers from vegan footwear companies are from fruit waste (grape, apple, pineapple) but cactus leather is another option, which produces an incredibly soft leather, so is an ideal ethical alternative to calf leather and other leathers used for high-end shoes.
Nearly all shoes are made in Asia from leather (in countries with poor welfare laws for animals and humans – the tanning process is very polluting). Cheap vegan shoes are made from pleather (plastic leather) that are not good for the planet and make your feet sweat. Instead, invest in a couple of pairs of quality vegan shoes made from Microfiber (wear on alternate days, to let them dry out). Wipe clean with a damp cloth.
As most quality vegan shoes are still sold online, visit the shoe shop to get your feet measured (or measure your own feet). If you’re a half-size, it’s okay to order the bigger size (feet swell when running and you’ll likely be wearing socks). European brands don’t offer half sizes.
