Have your running shoes reached the end of their race? Have you owned a pair of sneakers for a while that are practically new because you never use them? If it’s time to get rid of them there are now more ecological alternatives than the garbage can thanks to recent developments in recycling.
Resoling trainers
Resoling trainers can maintain performance and comfort if done correctly, often restoring them close to their original state. Environmentally, resoling reduces waste and conserves resources compared to buying new shoes, making it a more sustainable choice by extending the lifespan of existing footwear.
However, not all trainers can be resoled. Limitations arise from design and construction, such as glued soles or integrated midsoles that are difficult to replace. Brands with complex or proprietary sole technology may also pose challenges. Generally, trainers with stitched or removable soles are more suitable for resoling.
The good news is that new materials and techniques have recently been developed for resoling trainers. The "special cup press" method involves using a mold to shape new soles, ensuring a precise fit. Additionally, materials like Vibram rubber, known for its durability and traction, are often used in resoling. Techniques such as stitching or adhesive bonding are employed to attach the new soles. Eco-friendly methods, including recycled rubber and sustainable glues, are also gaining popularity to extend the life of running shoes.
There are many reasons why you and should retire your running shoes.
- After logging many kilometers they’ve now reached the end of their life cycle and they no longer retain the qualities that made them so great to run in.
- You collect sneakers and your closet is overflowing. It’s time to make some room!
- You have shoes that just don’t feel that great when you run in them. Why keep them?
Repair, reuse, collect or recycle: local authorities, brands, different associations and initiatives are all working together to find solutions that promote eco-responsible running as well as sports in general. Staying well informed will enable you to find the best solution for giving new life to your running shoes.
What to do with shoes that are worn out and others that are still in good condition
If you throw your shoes in the trash they will be incinerated or buried, which is not exactly the ideal solution for reducing your ecological impact on the planet.
Shoes in good condition? Donate them or try to sell them
If your shoes are still in excellent condition, you can resell them or give them away by asking around within your network or by using an online classified ads website. Many specialty stores offer a consignment service. This is an excellent way to sell your shoes and give them a second life. You benefit from the traffic in the store and potential buyers will be able to try on the shoes. Put a fair price on them and you’ll be helping someone who doesn’t have the budget for new shoes while also making space in your shoe closet.
Collection bins: reuse or re-cycle
If your shoes are too worn out for running or for any other use for that matter, put them in a used clothing collection container or whatever system is used for recycling shoes and clothing in your country. Your sneakers will then be sorted:
- In good shape: they will be resold or redistributed through resale networks.
- Too worn or damaged: they will be recycled by the appropriate organizations and the materials will be used to manufacture new products.
You can also look into free collection services that are sometimes available in specialty stores or at events like trail or road races.
Taking the next step towards reducing your ecological impact
Are you aware of the impact on the environment that you make when you practice your sport? Tackle the problem of waste at the beginning of the product cycle by making intelligent buying decisions.
Take good care of your shoes
Taking care of your shoes, as you do the rest of your sports equipment, means keeping them in good condition for longer. Replacing your running shoes less often will mean you spend less money as well as reduce the amount of waste. Clean your running shoes when necessary (when they’re really dirty or muddy). You can find out how we recommend doing it in a few simple steps in our article “How to clean your running shoes.” Don’t dry your shoes in the sun or near a strong heat source. Once they’re dry, keep them in a dry, well-ventilated place.
Repair when possible
Repairing a pair of running shoes is not always possible but if you have a shoemaker nearby you can always ask them for advice. Re-gluing the sole or even resoling them is sometimes possible, as is repairing a tear or a small hole in your shoe. It’s also possible, for example, to repair the Salomon Quicklace system yourself: “How to repair your Salomon Quicklace.” A repair will always cost you less than a new pair of shoes and it will keep you from throwing away something that still has life left in it.
So how do you know when it’s time for a resole? Your trainers need resoling when the tread is significantly worn down, reducing traction and stability, or when the midsole shows compression and doesn’t rebound as it used to, impacting cushioning and support. When deciding whether to resole or buy new trainers, consider the cost of resoling versus a new pair, the sentimental value of the shoes, and whether the upper part of the shoe remains in good condition. Also, consider if newer models offer improved technology or features that better meet your needs.
Reuse your shoes
In both trail running and road running, we do not recommend running in shoes that are too old or worn out. By doing so, you risk injury from shoes that no longer have the sufficient technical characteristics that absorb the impact of running. If your shoes are no longer suitable for running, they are often still good enough as everyday shoes or for tinkering around at home. Think about it!
Buy responsibly
Recycling running shoes is complicated due to the different materials used and the difficulties of separating the materials from each other. That’s why at Salomon, our index.01 project aims at designing a high-performance pair of running shoes that is fully recyclable and can be easily disassembled at the end of their life. They can then be recycled into new products such as ski boot shells. The brand is directly involved in the recycling process by organizing the free collection of running shoes and then recycling the two main materials: the TPU (thermoplastic) in the sole, and the recycled polyester from the upper.
Many manufacturers are also moving towards designing sustainable products that have less and less impact on the environment, for example, through the use of recycled materials. You can support this effort by including it in the list of features you require when making a purchase.
To identify if a shoe manufacturer uses sustainable practices or recycled materials, start by examining their website and product descriptions for specific claims about sustainability, such as the use of recycled content, organic materials, or energy-efficient processes. Look for third-party certifications like the Global Recycled Standard, B Corp, or Fair Trade, which validate certain aspects of the production and ethical standards. Additionally, review sustainability reports that detail the company’s environmental impact and goals. Engage with customer service or use social media to ask direct questions about their practices. Finally, research online for independent reviews and reports on the company's environmental record.
Understanding the recycling process and options for running shoes
Recycling programs and initiatives for trainers
Several recycling programs and initiatives for trainers help create a more sustainable loop by reducing waste and promoting the use of recycled materials. Local initiatives often include drop-off points for old shoes that are then either refurbished and donated or recycled. These programs reduce landfill waste, decrease the demand for new raw materials, and raise consumer awareness about sustainability. Such efforts contribute to the circular economy by keeping materials in use for longer and reducing environmental impact.
Average lifespan and disposal of running shoes
Running shoes typically last between 300 to 500 miles (480 to 800 kilometers) before they need to be replaced. This translates to roughly 4 to 6 months for regular runners. The lifespan can vary based on factors like running style, surface, and shoe quality.
Recycle, reuse, maintain, repair… Yes, solutions to limit the ecological impact of running do exist and are being further developed! Take advantage of them!
