If you’re an avid runner, you know that putting in the miles wears down your running shoes faster than other types of footwear. With every step, they absorb impact, provide stability, and protect your feet, making them essential gear. But after a certain number of miles, even the best shoes can become less effective. Yes, you may be able to extend their wear with simple upgrades, like adding a new set of insoles, which can provide fresh cushioning, protect your feet from extreme temperatures, and add support to push them through a few extra miles. But eventually, it will be time to say goodbye. Before just trashing them, though, you may want to consider how to recycle running shoes.
Once it’s time to part ways, a greener option is to recycle or repurpose your running shoes. Rather than letting them rest indefinitely in a landfill, this is a simple way to do good for yourself and the planet.
Here are a few of the best ways you can keep those well-loved kicks out of the landfill and put them to better use.
TerraCycle: Join Forces to Recycle Running Shoes
TerraCycle offers a footwear recycling program that’s a great choice for responsibly disposing of old running shoes. Through their specialized recycling boxes, TerraCycle can break down materials from nearly any brand of shoe and prevent them from going to waste.
While they partner with some shoe companies (e.g., Asics) for discounted and even free programs to recycle running shoes, for other brands, the service can be pricey. Here’s a tip to make it more affordable: save up several pairs of shoes (of all kinds) to recycle all at once. Better yet, team up with other runners in your community. By pooling your worn shoes and cash together, you can collectively minimize costs and help keep even more shoes out of landfills.
With TerraCycle, you aren’t limited to recycle running shoes. They have programs to encourage you to recycle everything from toothbrushes to snack packaging to cleaning supplies. Find out more at terracycle.com.
Nike’s Reuse-A-Shoe Program: A Convenient Drop-Off Option
Nike knows that even the best running shoes don’t last forever. Fortunately, it’s possible to give old shoes new life. Start by giving them a good cleaning and perhaps replace the laces and insoles.
If they’re truly past their usable life and can’t be donated to another runner, the Nike Reuse-A-Shoe program is an accessible way to recycle your old running shoes. The textile components can be used to produce a new product—perhaps even a new pair of shoes.
Available at many Nike retail locations in the U.S. and Europe, this sustainable program accepts shoes from any brand. However, it’s best to check with your local store for any specific restrictions.
Your old shoes may be ground down and used to create new shoes or new athletic surfaces, such as playgrounds, tracks, and court surfaces. Simply drop off your shoes at a participating store and know that they’ll go on to support new athletic ventures—even after their running days are done. To date, Nike has recycled more than 130 million pounds in their goal to recycle running shoes and move to zero carbon and zero waste.
You can learn more at Nike.com.
Give New Life to Lightly Used Shoes
Maybe you bought a pair of shoes that never quite fit right, or perhaps you have a barely used backup pair that didn’t make it into rotation. If your running shoes are still in good condition, consider donating them to organizations that support runners in need or contribute to community programs. Some great options include:
- One World Running: Since 1986, this organization has collected gently used athletic shoes, cleaned them, and redistributed them to people in need around the globe. Your donation can also help provide access to quality footwear for people who rely on running and walking as primary modes of transportation.
- Soles4Souls: This non-profit accepts all types of shoes and distributes them to underserved communities. Gently worn running shoes are especially appreciated, as they can help individuals who need durable footwear for everyday activities, as well as kids, to provide access to sports and other extracurricular opportunities.
- Local Running Clubs or Youth Programs: Sometimes, community running groups or school programs accept shoe donations for new runners who can’t afford to buy shoes. This is a great way to directly benefit those in your local area.
Check for additional donation centers in your community that might be able to give your shoes a new purpose.
Repurpose Your Fully Loved Shoes for Extra Mileage
If your shoes are completely worn out and aren’t eligible for donation or recycling, they still have a life beyond running! Here are a few creative ideas to repurpose them:
- Gardening Gear: Old running shoes are perfect for outdoor tasks like yard work, gardening, or even light construction. They’re already broken in, so they’ll keep your feet comfortable and protected during messy jobs.
- Painting Projects: Use your old shoes for paint projects or other DIY work where spills and stains are likely. This will save your newer shoes and give your old ones a purpose until they’re truly ready to retire.
- Slip-Ons for Quick Outdoor Trips: Convert them into easy slip-ons for quick tasks, like grabbing the mail or letting your dog out.
Recycle Running Shoes for a Responsible Farewell
Whether you’ve put hundreds of miles on them or only a few, your running shoes have been loyal companions on every trail, track, and road. Choosing to recycle, donate, or repurpose your old running shoes not only helps you feel good about where they end up but also contributes to a healthier planet. By giving them a new life, you’re honoring all the miles you shared—knowing that, in some way, they’ll keep on running forward.
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