For us runners it’s important that we have all the right gear for our next run or big race. The problem with that? The detrimental effects on the environment purchasing new gear can cause. The apparel and footwear industries together contribute 8% of the greenhouse gas emissions released annually. A staggering 66% of those clothing and textiles will end up being tossed into a landfill. Luckily, there are many ways we can help reduce these percentages just by keeping our running gear in good condition.
Sustainable practices for maintaining the life of your running gear not only helps the environment, but it also allows you to stop spending so much money buying new gear! Let’s get into exactly how you can prolong the life of your favorite accessories, and what to look for when it comes time to buy again.
Regular Maintenance of your Running Gear
Try to rotate the running shoes you wear as much as you can. A good rotation between a few different pairs allows the time necessary for the sneakers to fully dry after your run. Rotating your sneakers is also beneficial as it helps maintain the structure and cushioning of your shoes. Always store your sneakers in a dry, cool environment away from sunlight. Keeping your sneakers in sunlight can cause the materials of your shoes to degrade.
It’s important to untie your shoes before taking them off. This might sound simple, but it’s easy to just kick off your shoes when you come back from your run. This helps to prevent stretching in the upper shoe, maintaining the original structure. If you see any small holes or tears on your running shoes or clothes, try to repair them yourself before they become a bigger issue.
How to Properly Clean your Running Gear
Never ever put your sneakers in a washer or dryer! I repeat don’t put your sneakers in a washer machine unless you want to degrade the materials or structure in your shoes. I know it might be more time consuming, but the best way to clean your shoes is by hand. All you need is a damp cloth and some laundry detergent, and you’re good to start scrubbing away! It’s not hard to keep your running gear in good condition!
Don’t worry, it’s not necessary to hand wash your running kit or clothing. Just throw your running kit in the washer machine with cool water and a good detergent and you’re good to go! When it comes time for the drying process let your kit and clothes air dry in a cool, dry environment, away from sunlight. It’s always best not to leave your running gear in a damp, dark place as that contributes to bacterial growth and smelly odors.
Pro tip: Soak your clothing in white vinegar if you need to get rid of lingering smells!
Shopping for Sustainable Materials
When you’ve exhausted all your efforts and its finally time to go shopping for a new pair of shoes or running apparel, make sure you’re choosing sustainable materials. One of the most highly performing natural fibers for athletic clothes is wool. Not only is wool highly performing, it’s also biodegradable. Look for clothing made from wool the next time you go shopping!
Want to take it a step further? Look for clothing made from recycled materials. Clothing made from recycled polyester produces 76% less emissions and uses 82% less water. The running community has many opportunities to choose sustainable options with new alternatives emerging every day. Sustainable sneaker brands are on the up these past few years, aiming to reduce their carbon footprint in any way they can.
Giving your Running Gear a Second Life
Next time you go to throw away a shirt or pair of shorts you no longer wear, think about giving them a second life instead. Almost 77% of people used secondhand clothing, and there’s nothing wrong with that! A company called Geartrade allows you to send them your used sporting gear and they will help find a second home.
Starting a sneaker recycling program within your running club, gym, or running store is extremely beneficial! Discarded sneakers can take up to 30-40 years to decompose in landfills. By repurposing your sneakers you’re keeping them out of landfills and giving them to those in need. Something you no longer use can make an impact in someone else’s life!
Help Make an Impact by Taking Care of your Running Gear
Our collective effort to maintain, clean, and keep our running gear in good condition directly impacts our environment. By reducing waste and minimizing our carbon footprint, we’re making an effort in the movement towards a healthier planet.
Let’s continue to be mindful of our actions and make conscious choices when it comes to our running gear. Together, we can enjoy our runs, protect our environment, and inspire others to join us in this journey toward a more sustainable running community. Happy running, and here’s to a sustainable stride!
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