8 pairs of sneakers that are machine-washable
These shoes were made for washing
In recent years, we've seen a new category of footwear being marketed: machine-washable shoes. Often featuring knit fabric uppers, these sneakers and flats were touted as easier to clean and care for — no more need for shoe protectors, spot cleaners, or cleaning your shoes with a toothbrush or specialty wipes (at least for these pairs)!
Of course, it's always been possible to machine wash certain styles of shoes (generally, casual footwear not made with leather or suede), even though officially many footwear manufacturers don't recommend the practice. There are many good step-by-step guides available online, suggesting tips like using cold water, placing your shoes in a washing bag for the laundry cycle, and letting them air dry.
But the new wave of machine-washable shoes takes any second guessing out of the process; some of the brands even feature detailed washing recommendations for each style, such as removing insoles or shoelaces before doing any laundering. And these days, we're probably all wanting to wash, well, everything, better and a little more often. Though the World Health Organization says that "[t]he likelihood of COVID-19 being spread on shoes and infecting individuals is very low," it's also recommending that you take off your shoes at the door when you get home (if you aren't doing that already!)
Many styles in Skechers' Go Walk shoe range are machine washable; this pair is lightweight and has a breathable insole, too.
Skechers Men's Go Walk 5 Walking Shoes, $90, Skechers
This pair of lightweight, laceless slip-on sneakers with a washed twill-upper are perfect for everyday errands.
Chillax Seasonal Washable, $60, Keds
This new waterproof sneaker — available for pre-order — is the first machine-washable design from Vancouver-based footwear company, Vessi.
Weekend Asphalt, $165 (on sale for $135), Vessi
These lace-up low-tops from Everlane can be machine washed in cold water, are partially made with recycled materials, and can be fully recyclable when you're all done with them!
The Forever Sneaker, $88, Everlane
Rothy's pastel-coloured lace ups feature a knit upper made from recycled plastic water bottles and a plant-based footbed!
The Lace Up, about CAD $291, Rothy's
These high-tops by Canadian vegan brand Native Shoes have a breathable knit upper and sustainable Elastilite insole. Bonus: The company will accept worn pairs back for recycling!
Jefferson 2.0 High Liteknit, $115, Native Shoes
Real runners
Allbirds' running shoes have a sugarcane-EVA midsole and insoles made with castor bean — just remove the sockliners before laundering.
Women's Tree Dashers, $175, Allbirds
A few APL styles are machine washable, including Tracer and Ascend. This performance-focused pair is made especially for working out.
Women's TechLoom Tracer, $313.95, APL
