How to Pick Sustainable Sneakers: 3 Questions to Ask Yourself

There are few things we love more than a good pair of sneakers. They are a staple piece in most of our closets and are suitable for various occasions, from casual days at the office to weekend adventures. But, similar to fast fashion, the sneaker industry creates the perception that we need to replace our sneakers frequently.

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As they are made of plastics and contain harmful dyes, replacing them frequently has a negative impact on the planet and human health.

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What kind of sneakers do you need?

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Before investing in your next pair of sneakers, ask yourself this: Do I need new sneakers because my current ones lack sufficient support and cushioning, or am I being influenced by a new micro-trend on TikTok and Instagram?

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If it’s the latter, then you might be contributing to the growing sneaker waste problem 23 billion pairs of shoes are made every year and 22 billion are thrown into landfills.

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Casual sneakers that you wear 3-4 times a week are supposed to last a year. They may last longer if you do not walk a lot in them. If they continue to provide you with enough support and cushioning even after a year, you can continue using them.

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For more active sneakers, the general rule of thumb is a 500-mile limit. our walking or all-purpose sneakers will likely need to be replaced when worn for 500 miles. This roughly translates to using them for three to four hours a week, every day, for six months.

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If you believe that your current sneakers have exceeded their limits and are causing foot pain and discomfort, it's time to replace them.

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Before investing in a new pair, it's important to determine their intended use. If you plan to use them for walking, prioritize sneakers with good cushioning and quality materials. However, if you simply need casual shoes for everyday errands or work, these factors may be less important.

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Once you have made that decision, start looking for sustainable sneakers available in the market. We covered some brands in our previous blog 5 Sustainable Shoe Brands That Offset Their Emissions.

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Here are some criteria to look for while purchasing your next pair of sustainable sneakers:

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What materials are they made of?

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Check out the materials used in your sneakers. Sustainable and planet-friendly materials include Lyocell (also known as Tencel), wool felt, hemp, jute, cork, and natural rubber. On the other hand, synthetic rubber, plastics, and leather are not sustainable.

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Brands like Allbirds prioritize sustainability by using materials such as Merino Wool, eucalyptus tree fibers, and recycled plastic shoelaces.

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Others like Thousand Fell produce recycled and recyclable sneakers made from materials like recycled water bottles, sugar cane, and coconut husk.

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Are the sneakers comfortable?

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If you want to wear a pair of sneakers, it's important that they are comfortable and well-suited to your needs. Ideal sneakers should be sturdy, flexible, and have a good grip, while also providing proper arch support.

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If you plan to order online, check if the brand offers a free return or exchange policy. Sustainable sneaker brands like Nisolo and Cariuma have generous return policies, as long as you have only tried the sneakers on a clean floor.

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How sustainable is the brand?

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Greenwashing claims like “eco-friendly” and “green” can incentivize people, making it difficult to avoid them. To avoid that, you can check for the certifications that the brand has.

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Brands like Cariuma use materials such as certified organic cotton, OEKO-TEX certified bamboo, and plastics that meet the Global Recycled Standard. Others like Nisolo, Allbirds, and Enda Athletic are B Corp Certified.

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There will be a time when you will want to replace your sustainable sneakers or dispose of them properly. Here are 5 companies that can recycle or reuse your sneakers.