Perhaps you’ve had a pair of sneakers and wondered, as you put them in the trash, whether you should. Short answer: No. But we know. The next thought you may have had is, where can you even dispose of them? Let’s face it; you’re not looking to make what to do with your gently worn sneakers after you no longer need them into an all-day research project. If you’re wondering where to donate sneakers, we have the answers.
This guide will give you insights into when to throw away vs. donate sneakers and what to do before donating sneakers. Perhaps you’ve also wondered where to donate sneakers for money or to help others. Fortunately, the answer to that question is that there are several ways your athletic shoes can earn you money, such as partnering with Sneakers4Good. You can also give them to nonprofits in your neighborhood. So, let’s dive in!
First Things First: Can You Donate Sneakers That Have Been Worn?
Where to donate sneakers doesn’t have to be hard. And yes, you can donate or give away sneakers that have been worn. You see, when you consider gently worn sneakers, it doesn’t mean that the athletic shoes are trash. For example, they may no longer work for your running because they’re wearing down. But they also have a life. If they’re still wearable and you’d feel okay giving them to a friend, chances are that they have a second life elsewhere.
When to Throw Away vs. Donate Sneakers
If you’re running or trail shoes feel uncomfortable and you’re wondering what to do, you’re at the heart of the question: when to throw away vs. donate sneakers. It’s a critical item because there are times when sneakers are beyond giving away. If the sneakers have their soles intact, structure and there aren’t tears, that’s a sign you shouldn’t trash them. If they don’t have an odor, only light scuffs, and moderate tread, that’s another good sign.
One of the best general rules for deciding when to throw away vs. donate sneakers is the “friend test.” If your friend needed sneakers, would you give them to them? If not, that’s your answer. For instance, if the midsole’s crumbling, some holes expose your socks, or the outsole is so smooth it can cause slipping, those sneakers shouldn’t be given away. But remember, throwing away is the last resort, so consider a manufacturer return program.
What to Do Before Donating Sneakers
Each year, more than 300 million pairs of shoes and sneakers end up in landfills. It’s a waste of tax money and resources. For one, sneakers and shoes have to get picked up first by municipal waste entities. And once the footwear ends up in landfills, it contaminates the site as it breaks down. The decomposition process means the sneakers emit toxins into the air and into the ground as they break down, which is why you should always consider where to donate sneakers first.
When you decide to be socially responsible, you may wonder what to do before donating sneakers. The good news is that what you need to do is quick.
- Do a quick clean to remove loose dirt. If sneakers are muddy, let them dry thoroughly and then give them a quick clean.
- If you have several pairs of sneakers to give away, tie the laces or rubber-band them together. Get a free Mail-In Reuse Bag.
- Shake out insoles and remove specialty inserts or insoles. If you added anything to the sneakers, remove it, especially if it’s sharp.
- Do the “friend test” for each pair of sneakers you place in the bag. If you wouldn’t give them to someone you know because they’re in bad shape, don’t donate the sneakers.
Where to Donate Sneakers
Again, when you’re looking into where to donate sneakers, it doesn’t have to become a day or weekend project—although it could if you’re doing a significant social impact project. Regardless, you have several places to consider.
- Local nonprofit thrift and donation centers. Take a look at the government site to find a shelter, domestic abuse shelter, or food pantry. Ask whether they need sneakers for those they serve.
- Community sneaker drives. If you hear of a local school, sports team, gym, or community organization doing a sneaker drive, support it by donating your sneakers. They’re great because many offer drop-off or pickup.
- Municipal or specialty recycling. Keep an eye open in your neighborhood, as some places have recycling drop-off points. Retailers may host collection events. Just make sure the source is legitimate with strong social reviews.
- Shoe and sneaker donation bins. You’ve likely spotted donation bins in your area. Bins vary, so before you donate sneakers to a bin, make sure the organization is proven, trusted, and reputable.
Where to Donate Used Running Shoes
You may wonder where to donate used running shoes, as runners retire them due to performance. If you’re a runner, you know that you typically rotate your running shoes every 300-500 miles. If you’re a runner, consider the same condition test. If your sneakers are still wearable, meaning gently worn, used or new, then you should donate them or even get paid for them!
Are There Any Sneaker Recycling Programs That Actually Pay You?
During times when money’s tight, you or someone you know may want to know whether there are any sneaker recycling programs that pay. The short answer is yes. You can get paid to reuse and recycle sneakers. For instance, you can look at the resale marketplace, especially if you have sneakers of value. You can also explore consignment shops, brand or retailer programs, or retailers who offer discounts, rewards, or store credits.
Where to Donate Sneakers for Money
If you search for “where to donate sneakers for money,” keep in mind one thing. You might love your sneakers, even if they no longer serve you. But, unless you have a pristine collectible, never-used pair, you’re not going to earn what you paid for them. So, if you need money, consider reselling on a reputable platform, through consignment, or on eBay. The point is to keep things in perspective.
What Do Athletic Shoe Recycling Companies Actually Do with Donated Sneakers?
As you explore where to donate sneakers, you may also wonder what happens with the athletic shoes. The short answer is: it depends. That’s why you need to partner with a reputable partner. Truthfully, some shady operators would take your sneakers, give you a few cents, and then resell them in bulk on eBay or another platform. You have others who crush the sneakers to sell the raw materials, which prevents them from having a second life somewhere.
How to Donate Sneakers with Sneakers4Good
If you have gently worn, used or new sneakers, consider a proven partner like Sneakers4Good. We work with many partners, including the Boston and Marine Corps Marathons, running store retailers, and even individuals with extra sneakers. We’ve operated for more than a decade to redirect sneakers into the reuse economy, which can pay you or a good cause, support the environment, and give a hand-up to small businesses worldwide.
How to Choose the Right Sneaker Donation Option
Once you decide what you want to get rid of responsibly, ask yourself a few questions to determine how you want to do it.
- Are the sneakers wearable?
- Do you want to make a social impact or resell them on, say, eBay?
- If you use a partner, does that partner have legitimacy?
Always remember that if your sneakers are in good shape and can be used again, extending their life is a solid move.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can you put sneakers into a donation bin?
Yes, but be selective. Use bins that are clearly marked and associated with reputable organizations. And when you donate athletic shoes, remember to keep pairs together and avoid contributing wet sneakers, which can spread mold.
Can I donate running shoes directly to homeless shelters, or do they prefer other footwear?
It depends on the shelter and the season. Some organizations will welcome the athletic shoes. Others may need weather-specific footwear, such as boots, or may need warm coats to keep clients warm.
What’s the easiest way to recycle my pile of worn-out trail runners?
Again, check if it’s their wearable. If they’re not wearable, look for a manufacturing or retailer program. You can also consider a program such as the Mail-In Reuse Bag Program for individuals with Sneakers4Good, or one of our other programs.
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