The Sneaker Journey
Every sneaker has a journey — from raw materials to manufacturing to the miles we put on them. At GotSneakers, used shoes are collected, evaluated, and directed to their best next life through reuse or recycling.
Raw Materials
Sneakers start with raw materials like rubber, foam, textiles, and plastics, many petroleum-based.
These are extracted & processed with intensive energy, water, and labor.
Manufacturing
Billions of sneakers are produced annually and can last centuries in landfills.
A single pair can emit 30+ pounds of CO? emissions.
Consuming
Sneakers are purchased, worn, and discarded.
85% of sneakers are landfilled or incinerated long before they reach the end of their life.
Take-Back
GotSneakers diverts sneakers from landfills with a free nationwide take-back program.
We’ve partnered with over 200,000 individuals, nonprofits, and businesses to create impact.
Sorting & Grading
We sort and grade millions of sneakers each year to determine reuse or recycling eligibility.
We use our Sneaker Guidelines to evaluate each pair by brand, condition, and measurement.
Reuse
Around 90% of the sneakers we collect are reused in domestic and global secondhand markets.
Reuse is the most sustainable option,offsetting CO2e by ~60%.
Recycling
We work with trusted recycling partners to grind, separate, and reuse materials to create new products—from countertops and shelves to insoles, laces, and footwear.
No sneakers go to landfill. Every pair serves a purpose.
Landfill Diversion
CO2e Averted
Water Savings
