Disclosure: some links on this page are affiliate links. If you buy through them I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Trainers are one of the hardest things to buy sustainably. A single pair mixes foam, rubber, glue and several fabrics, and most of it is hard to recycle. You can still make a better choice by looking at what the shoe is made from and how long it will last.
What to look for in sustainable trainers
- Natural or recycled uppers: organic cotton canvas, hemp, or uppers made from recycled plastic bottles.
- Plant-based or recycled soles: natural rubber, sugarcane-based foam, or recycled rubber instead of virgin petroleum foam.
- Fewer materials and less glue: simpler shoes are easier to repair and to recycle.
- Durability: a pair you wear for four years beats a “green” pair that falls apart in one.
- Honest claims: look for specific numbers, certifications and named materials, not vague words like “eco”. See what is greenwashing in fashion.
Materials worth knowing
Organic cotton canvas is breathable and washable, and it suits casual everyday trainers. Hemp is tough and needs little water to grow. Recycled polyester keeps plastic bottles out of landfill, but it still sheds microplastics when washed, so wash it less often and at a lower temperature. Natural rubber soles are a good upgrade on petroleum-based foam.
How to buy trainers that last
- Choose a classic design you will still like in three years.
- Check the sole can be re-glued or re-soled by a local cobbler.
- Clean them gently and let them air dry away from direct heat.
- Rotate between two pairs so each one rests and keeps its shape.
- Resell or donate pairs you no longer wear instead of binning them.
Where to start looking
You can browse sustainable and recycled-material trainers on Amazon UK and compare the materials listed on each product page. For organic and recycled basics to wear with them, see our guides to organic cotton socks, organic cotton T-shirts and sustainable jeans. Our sustainable fashion on a budget guide covers ways to spend less.
The short version
The most sustainable trainers are the ones you already own. When you do need a new pair, pick natural or recycled materials, a simple construction and a design you will wear for years. Always check the product page for the actual materials before you buy.