For a couple weeks now I have been wearing some new summery sandals. I have been breaking them in for summer hiking and camping when my usual foot gear… the flip-flop won’t work so well. For whatever reason I have come to hate any type of closed toe shoe. I wear open toed shoes most of winter even.

While this shoe is closed toe, it is also breezy and open since it is a sandal. These are the  fisherman inspired J-41 Dune Vegan sandals. And so far I am really liking them!

As soon as I opened the box I was impressed with how they look like leather but they are actually made from 100% non-animal nubuck. I also squealed with happiness when I saw what was on the bottom. Part of the rubber sole is clear and there is a recycled map underneath it. The small bit of map I saw is from the Appalachian Trail!! Is that not a sign or what! I have been dying to hike the Appalachian trail for years.

Anyway… the contrast stitching accents (pink) and woven straps add a pretty, feminine flavor. There is a Velcro closure allows for a secure fit, a memory foam footbed (also imprinted with a map), mesh for breathability, and a toe bumper that provides protective coverage. And of course the the rubber traction Jeep sole is imprinted with J-41′s signature translucent map detail as a reminder that it’s all about the journey, not the destination. The shoes I have are a teeny bit different, they have less pink and no mesh, but overall the shoes you see at Planet Shoes are the same as mine.

As far as eco footwear goes I was a bit hesitant but they are really pretty, fun and sporty, and of course eco friendly and cruelty free. I think they will last a good long while too and that is a great thing since I usually stick to the $40 eco flip-flops and this pair of sandals goes for $89.

Check out Planet Shoes for other awesome eco footwear options too.