Nike is continuously moving toward a more circular future. Through its Recycling + Donation program, for example, the brand is making it easier for athletes and everyday consumers to dispose of their used athletic gear sustainably.
From recycling used sneakers into playground surfacing to donating still-functioning apparel to communities in need, this initiative is about helping gear live on even after it has been worn out.
Image source: Nike
A Drop off into a Second Life
The program is straightforward:
You drop it off
Customers can bring used athletic shoes or apparel to selected Nike stores. The gear doesn't have to be Nike-branded; any athletic brand is accepted, as long as it meets the criteria.
Nike sorts it
Once the items are received, Nike evaluates them to determine whether they're eligible for recycling or donation. These criteria are based on the gear's wear, material type, and overall condition.
Nike takes action
The apparel that is still in good shape is cleaned and donated to communities in need through charity partners. Shoes and clothing that can't be reused are recycled and repurposed into new materials that are used in retail spaces, playgrounds, and more.
What's accepted?
Shoes: Any brand of athletic footwear. Metal-spiked shoes, cleats, boots, and sandals are excluded.
Apparel: Athletic tops and bottoms that are free of zippers, snaps, or buttons. Socks and underwear are not accepted.
Image source: Nike
Where does it go?
Supporting communities worldwide
Usable apparel is donated through Nike's nonprofit partners. The items go to disaster relief efforts, while others fuel micro-businesses through programs like Soles4Souls, which help entrepreneurs resell gear to support their families.
Recycling by materials
Items which can't be reused are broken down and sorted by material:
Polyester is recycled by companies like Wolkat and reused in gift bags, upholstery, and Nike footwear.
Cotton is transformed by Kvadrat into retail tabletops and workplace materials.
Blended fabrics are currently more difficult to recycle, but Nike is actively exploring sustainable solutions.
Nike Grind: What happens to old shoes?
Nike has been turning worn-out sneakers into something new for nearly 30 years with Nike Grind: a material made from used and manufacturing waste.
Rubber is repurposed into playground and gym flooring and 3D printing projects.
Foam is shipped to partners for use in surface designs.
Fluff (textile filler) is currently incinerated for energy recovery as Nike works toward better recycling options.
Image source: Nike
Move to Zero: Designing for circularity
Nike's Move to Zero campaign is about reducing carbon and waste, and the Recycling + Donation program is a key part of that mission. By designing with the end of a product's life in mind and creating clear recycling paths, Nike is working towards a more circular product lifecycle.
Want to get involved?
Anyone with used gear that fits the guidelines mentioned can participate by visiting an eligible Nike store. It's an easy and impactful way to help reduce waste, support communities in need, and contribute to a future that's better for people and the planet. Because used doesn't mean wasted.
Read more about Nike and other brands' sustainable efforts on Reflwan's news page.
How can I recycle my Nike gear and shoes?
Nike offers a Recycling + Donation program. Customers can bring used shoes or apparel to selected Nike stores and then the brand decides if the product can be recycled or donated.
What items can I donate or recycle through the program?
You can drop off:
- Athletic Shoes (any brand): Must be free of metal spikes or cleats. Sandals, boots, and dress shoes aren’t accepted.
- Athletic Apparel (any brand): Tops and bottoms without zippers, buttons, or snaps. Socks and underwear are not accepted.
Where can I drop off my used Nike gear?
Participating Nike stores across select locations in the EU accept drop-offs. It’s best to check with your local Nike store to see if they’re part of the program. You can also check through through Nike's website.
What happens once I drop my Nike gear off?
- Sorting : Nike evaluates the gear based on condition, materials, and wear.
- Action: Items are either:
- Donated to communities in need through charity partners.
- Recycled into materials used for other products or infrastructure (like courts, flooring, and furniture).
