Skip to main content
Category

Athletes

recycle running shoes

What to Do with Your Old Running Shoes? Recycle, Donate, or Repurpose Them!

By Athletes

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.

A soccer player with cleat insoles.

From Comfort to Control: The Impact of Insoles for Soccer Cleats

By Athletes

The right insoles for soccer cleats can be a game-changer. They can help improve performance, safety, and comfort. 

Benefits of Cleats

If you’ve spent time on the field, you already know how beneficial cleats can be. For folks who are considering cleats for the first time or getting reacquainted with the game, there are good reasons to wear soccer cleats. 

For instance, cleats can help players gain traction on the field. Soccer fields are typically grassy. And if the grass is damp and dewy, much less wet, it can become slippery. The studs on the bottom of cleats dig into the ground, so players have better traction. This improved traction allows them to make quick turns and stops and sprint off again without fear of slipping. 

For these reasons, most cleats are designed to support the foot during sudden changes in speed and direction. They’re lightweight and fit closely to the foot, so players can feel the ball. The added stability can help prevent injuries and allow players to move more efficiently and accurately to dribble, pass, and shoot. In addition, the material can help protect the feet from impacts with the ball, other players, and the ground. 

Another reason for a good pair of cleats (with good insoles) is that soccer involves running for long periods, often on hot, hard surfaces. Footwear that provides a good cushion and appropriate arch support can reduce fatigue and discomfort in the foot. 

Cleats have become such an important aspect of the game that most soccer leagues have rules that require players to wear appropriate footwear with cleats. This is done to help the players stay safe, and the games remain fair. 

Different types of cleats are designed for various types of playing surfaces, such as firm ground, soft ground, artificial turf, and indoor arenas. Choosing the right cleats for your game ensures optimal performance, comfort, and safety. 

Are Insoles for Soccer Cleats Necessary? 

All players are different, so insoles for soccer cleats may not be strictly necessary. However, they do offer several benefits that make them a valuable addition to your soccer gear. Here are a few reasons to consider using insoles with your soccer cleats:

  • Comfort: Additional cushioning or protection from the hot ground can make your cleats more comfortable, especially during long periods of play. Insoles for soccer cleats can be especially beneficial on hard, hot surfaces. They can also help wick away moisture or help your feet stay cooler and drier, which makes them more comfortable as you play. It may also help reduce the risk of developing blisters and fungal infections. 
  • Fit: Insoles can make your cleats fit better, which helps reduce friction. This, in turn, helps reduce the risk of blisters and other foot issues and can help you perform optimally. Especially for players who have feet that are between sizes or with specific foot issues, this can be a game changer. 
  • Support: Players with flat feet or with high arches may need extra foot support. Insoles designed for soccer can help distribute pressure evenly across the foot, aligning the lower body and reducing the risk of injury.
  • Performance: You can’t expect insoles (or cleats) to turn a casual player into a professional, but a good set of insoles can contribute to improvements in performance by enhancing comfort, fit, support, and control.
  • Temperature Control: Temperature regulation is particularly important for soccer players, especially in extreme weather conditions. When temperatures drop, insoles can offer a layer of insulation, which keeps the feet warmer by reducing heat loss.

    When made from breathable materials, insoles for soccer cleats can also help manage heat buildup and excess moisture. By allowing air to circulate and wick away sweat, insoles can keep the feet cooler and drier when it gets hot. Dry feet are more comfortable and better able to regulate temperature. This not only helps the feet stay more comfortable, but it helps reduce the risk of skin irritation like blisters. 

Choosing the Best Insoles for Soccer Cleats

Choosing the best insoles for soccer cleats depends on your unique needs. Consider your foot shape, the playing conditions, and preferences for cushion and support. A few features many soccer players seek include:

  • A slim design that easily fits into the shoe 
  • Good arch support that fits the natural contours of the foot
  • Shock absorption to reduce the impact on joints and muscles
  • And quality materials that are breathable and moisture-wicking to keep the feet dry and comfortable. 

Strikesol insoles are particularly notable for their heat-shielding properties. They’re designed to reduce heat transfer from the ground or turf to the player’s feet. That can be especially beneficial when it heats up during the spring and summer. Keeping the feet cool and comfortable can benefit performance as it keeps them from overheating, which can be uncomfortable and distracting. For players who are sensitive to heat, these types of insoles can be a game changer. 

The right insoles may not be necessary, but they could be advantageous, depending on your needs. However, it’s essential to choose the right insoles for your needs. In addition, it’s important to select insoles for soccer cleats that fit well and don’t make them too tight or restrictive. 

One caveat: If you choose to add insoles to your soccer cleats, it’s a good idea to use them for practice to ensure they don’t negatively impact your play before gameday. 

The Uses of Strikesol

By Athletes, Construction Workers, Military No Comments

Strikesol is an adhesive insert that can be applied to any cleat, shoe, or boot. Using Nasa and military-grade material Strikesol gives relief to the feet and body. Strikesol reduces the heat of the ground whether that be asphalt, dirt, or turf from transferring into your feet. Strikesol protects your feet from injuries such as blisters, turf burns, and general discomfort. There has always been a need for a product like this and it’s finally here!

Here are the ways Strikesol inserts are currently being used:

Athletes

The surface of synthetic turf has been found to be 40 to 70 degrees hotter than the surface air around it. This extreme heat can cause shoes to melt, blisters, turf burn and can even induce dehydration and heatstroke. Protecting athletes from this heat is profoundly important for the health of the athlete and helps them stay on the field longer. An athlete’s feet are one of the most important parts of their body and Strikesol inserts are the first line of defense in having healthy feet. 

Military

Military personnel are required to endure some of the most physically draining training in the world. Hundreds of hours of running and hiking in the hot sun will undeniably take a toll on the body and mind of any person. From 2008 to 2018 cases of dehydration and heatstroke increased by 60%. Strikesol inserts can protect the feet of these soldiers as they continue to train at extreme intensities and can protect those soldiers who are deployed to areas like Afghanistan where temperatures have been seen to get up to 140 degrees Fahrenheit. 

Construction Worker

Construction workers or workers’ professions that leave you vulnerable to the effects of the sun commonly suffer from the same injuries and discomfort found both in soldiers and athletes. Construction workers are notoriously tough and work in tough conditions. Despite the stereotypes, construction workers should not be forced to deal with blisters and the discomfort of working on a construction site all day. Strikesol provides relief to these injuries and allows you to complete your work faster without the mental drain of discomfort in your feet.

The Effects of Heat

By Athletes, Construction Workers No Comments

Almost every athlete has to train in the heat of the day, whether that is in or out of the competition, but athletes aren’t the only ones who feel the effects of heat. Military and manual labor workers feel these effects on a daily basis. Only over the last decade have researchers really understood the effects and potential dangers of athletes training in these conditions. 


Here are some effects researchers find most concerning athletes, manual labor workers, and the military. 

Cardiovascular

When your core temperature increases your blood vessels expand. This causes your heart rate to increase in order to maintain your blood pressure. If your cardiovascular system is compromised, it could affect oxygen delivery. 

Physical

Heat both directly and indirectly affects muscle. There is an accumulation of metabolites and an increased rate of glycogen breakdown. Heat also causes damages to the skin such as turf burn, and blisters. These types of injuries can be very painful and can even take someone out of work or competition. 

Psychological

Heat affects an athlete’s motivation, pain tolerance, mood, and discomfort. All these things can affect a person’s physical performance. In terms of military, or construction workers this could be dangerous where there is a present danger at almost all times. 

CNS

As your core body temperature increases, your brain temperature also increases. This causes changes in the brain like fuel depletion and changes in neurotransmitters. These changes may alter your brain function. Effects such as these can prove to be dangerous in work environments such as construction sites

Strikesol

BluSol inserts allow athletes at all levels to play comfortably, and not feel those negative effects of heat. Built with Nasa grade material, BluSol inserts drop the temperature between the ground surface and show 30 degrees, and protect your feet from blisters and turf burn. BluSol inserts are perfect for athletes, manual labor workers, and the military. 

Make the Most of Baseball Season

By Athletes No Comments

The baseball season is a great indicator of Spring starting. That also means the weather is getting warmer. Baseball games are so much fun to watch because you get to spend hours in the sun and eat classic baseball snacks. For the ones playing baseball is a sport that requires intense focus and precision. No matter your sport investing in the right gear will help you reach your peak performance. 

Focus

A huge component of baseball is the mental element. Baseball players have to maintain focus for hour-long games and keep up the physical engagement. Even though games can last close to three hours it goes by quickly. There are so many technical elements going on that makes it so fun to be a part of if you are paying close enough attention. Baseball is such a statistical game and it is important that the pressure does not cause players to crack. This sport meant to be enjoyable and that is the most important aspect. The best way to grow is to continue enjoying the game and practicing consistently to improve your personal performance. 

Gear

In order to make the most of your season, baseball athletes should try out Strikesol shoe inserts. Spending hours on hot baseball diamonds will make your feet burn unless you have Strikesol. They are super easy to add to your baseball cleats and ensure peak performance! Another important accessory for baseball season is sunglasses. The sunny Spring weather brings on the heat and the sunshine- sunglasses will make these games far more enjoyable for everyone. 

Off the Field

Baseball games are loads of fun but the season lasts for several months. Athletes and fans must find a way for them to stay strong and last all Spring. For fans that is as simple as checking in with the snack bar and bringing some shade. For athletes, it is important to keep training on off days. Players have to maintain strength and agility. By continually going to the weight room athletes will optimize their performance and become extremely strong players. 

Beat the Heat

Don’t forget that baseball can last all summer long with different leagues. The hot summer sun is more intense and it is very important to wear sunscreen and bring shade. Athletes should definitely invest in gear that will help them keep cool so that all of their attention can be spent on the game. Baseball is a fun sport to watch and to be a part of. Enjoy the season! 

The Importance of Being Active

By Athletes No Comments

It is easy for some people to find ways to keep moving but others need that extra motivation and that is okay too! If you are someone who has found a sport you love that can be really rewarding and you are lucky to have the chance to play with your teammates and other players. Unfortunately, some people do not have a sport they are passionate about, but it is still important for your health to be active in different ways. Even something as simple as walking for thirty minutes every day can make an impact. 

Building Stamina 

The choice to get outside and move is one that can be intimidating to people. People are worried about what others might think of them or concerned about their own performance level so they hesitate to make a change. If that is you- stop your worries! The only way to grow and get stronger is to continue to push yourself. Set a goal for yourself and always build on that. By continuing to grow on your original goal you will notice yourself building stamina. With the example of walking for thirty minutes every day, making that a habit will allow you to get more out of those thirty minutes. Building stamina will allow you to cover more distance in thirty minutes or the same distance in less time. In order to grow, you have to start small. No marathon runner can make it all the way without the first thirty minutes.

Improving Physical Health

By having an active lifestyle you are sure to improve your overall well-being. Something as simple as walking for thirty minutes every day can improve cardiovascular fitness, strengthen bones, and reduce body fat. All these qualities are important to health and your body will thank you in the future for the investment in your health now. To have a healthy lifestyle it is important to be balanced. Eating healthy is important but is not powerful enough on its own. Make the change your body needs to thrive. Opt-out of sitting on the couch and push yourself!

Mood Booster

Not only is having a healthy lifestyle going to help your physical health in the present and the future but it can also have an impact on your mental health. Use your understanding of the importance of exercise as a motivation to your friends. Maybe you can convince them to be active too. Being active is a good excuse to spend quality time with people you like. On a more serious note, exercise, even something as simple as thirty minutes of walking decreases the likelihood of depression. By being healthy you are helping boost self-esteem and your overall well-being. 

There is no need to wait! Get outside today and push yourself. Never be afraid to fail when you are giving yourself the opportunity to grow. The importance of being active is undeniable, so get out there and move. 

Keep it Up During the Off-Season

By Athletes, Uncategorized No Comments

Everyone knows that a break can be nice. But if you want to come back for the season ready to go it is important to take advantage of your offseason. 

Improve Your Technical Skills 

No matter what your sport is it is important to keep training during the offseason. This is the perfect time to work on new skills that you have not had time to master before. Even though you might not be playing all the time, it is important to put those cleats back on and pick up the lacrosse stick, soccer ball, or whatever your sport may be- that way you won’t lose touch of the essential skills. 

Work to be Elite 

When weight training or conditioning, it is important to maintain some level of strength. If you completely stop working out you will be at a much greater risk of injury when the season starts. It is okay if you want to go a little lighter, but it is best not to stop altogether. If you are somewhere with intense winters and you cannot usually train outside like you prefer Strikesol Inserts have cold protection too so you can train anytime, anywhere. Do not let the colder months stop you from doing what you love, get out there and get stronger. 

Stay Hydrated 

Don’t forget you need to maintain certain physical needs all year long. It is even easier to get dehydrated during the winter months because of the colder weather. Remember to fuel your body with lots of water! 

Don’t Quit the Mental Game 

The best part about the offseason is the extra free time. Use this time to heal your bodies and remind yourself why you love your sport. It is important to improve your skills but remember why you play the game you love. Use this time to set realistic goals for your upcoming season and reward yourself for the goals you have accomplished. Maintain your competitive edge by keeping a positive attitude! 

It’s Still Hot in August

By Athletes No Comments

It’s Still Hot in August

It’s time for football! Many Americans have been waiting since February for it to return but it’s still hot outside! Athletes are training as we speak and getting ready for week one. Here are three ideas to fight the heat.

Idea 1: HYDRATION!

One of the most important things our body needs is water. Our body uses sweat to keep us cool but we need to replenish that water. Our body uses over a liter an hour of water to stay cool. If athletes don’t stay hydrated they won’t perform well and will struggle to stay cool.

Idea 2: Turning up the Heat!

Yeah, you heard me right. Professional athletes use high temp workouts to get used to the weather. This doesn’t sound fun at all but on the field, you can be ready for any temperature. A word of caution though, know your limits and don’t overpush yourself.

Idea 3: Use cooling equipment

This is my favorite idea because with all the football equipment on its hard for your body to keep you cool. You can feel like your in a furnace. BluSol Heat Shield Inserts are there to help. From your football cleats to your helmet, it will get hot. BluSol Heat Shield Inserts are used by athletes everywhere and perform better with these insets.

From Monday Night, Friday Night, and Saturday games be the best athlete you can be and be comfortable doing it. Remember to fight the heat and let’s play some football!

Soccer player

How to Become a Better Athlete

By Athletes No Comments

How to Become a Better Athlete

Everyone who plays sports can relate to the feeling of always wanting to improve. Whether it is important physically or mentally, it can be challenging at time. Here at 3 simple steps to help you become a better athlete. 

Step 1: Train with people who challenge you. 

Training with people who challenge you both physically and mentally helps you grow and reach your goals faster. Find someone to train with that is not afraid to push you to your limits. Try avoiding training with people who give up easily or don’t push themselves.  Bart Brooks once said, “If you’re not being challenged, you’re not getting any better.” 

Step 2: Find comfortable gear to train and play in. 

Every athlete knows that find good gear is extremely important when trying to play your best game. Find clothing that is not only comfortable but also beneficial to your game. Strikesol Heat Sheild shoe inserts, for example, keep the player’s feet cool throughout the game, so they can play their best and stay comfortable throughout the whole game. Find clothing that is breathable. Shirts, shorts, and socks that allow air to flow will also help you feel comfortable and play at your peak performance. 

Step 3: Learn from your loses to become a better athlete.

If every game there is a winner and a loser. But like Ascertain Solo said, “Every winner, once a loser.” Learn from your loses. What could you have done better in that game? How can you help your team or yourself improve for the next game? If you learn from your lost games and never give up, you are in fact a winner. 

If you follow these three steps, you are sure to become a better athlete. Just make sure to never give up, always try harder, and find ways to improve not only your game but your teams game.