We just had a major foot growth spurt with our 6 year old… she had way too many pair of shoes because Daddy is a shoe developer and she was in a sample size. Now, we have tons of gently used shoes that are going to a charity so someone else can get use out of them!

The Nike shoe recycle is available at most Nike stores, you can take in ANY athletic shoe, regardless of brand and deposit it.

Nike regrind becomes more than surfaces (play, track, flooring) it also becomes part of the Green Rubber Nike uses in new shoes, the rubber is part traditional sole and part regrind.

I try to repair shoes whenever I can (I’m a bargain shoe shopper with a major shoe fetish), so I don’t ever want to part with a pair. It can be remarkably cost effective to re-tip heals, repair scuffs, and if the foot bed (insole) is worn, use a replacement insert.

Paying attention to the shoe process is so vital. I love Simple Shoes. I’m also a fan of Keen and some Nike products (many have a sustainability number).

I’ve found it difficult to attempt second hand for my shoes… find a properly fitting shoe that still looks great is rare!

Thanks for these GREAT ideas. I can see my kids painting up some shoes very soon!