Can You Resole Running Shoes? The Truth About Extending Shoe Life
Yes, you can resole running shoes in many cases, though not all shoes are equally suitable for this process. Here’s what you need to know:
- Best candidates: Running shoes with stitched soles and durable uppers
- Difficult to resole: Shoes with fully cemented (glued) construction
- Cost: Typically $45-$100 for professional resoling vs. $100-$200 for new shoes
- Lifespan extension: Adds approximately 300-500 miles to your shoes
- Environmental impact: Saves approximately 14kg of CO₂ emissions per pair
When your favorite running shoes start showing signs of wear on the outsole, you might wonder if tossing them is your only option. The good news is that can you resole running shoes is a question with a positive answer for many models. Just like you wouldn’t scrap your car because it needs new tires, you shouldn’t discard perfectly good running shoes when only the treads are worn.
Resoling involves replacing the worn outsole while preserving the upper and midsole components that still have life left in them. In fact, typically only about 5% of a running shoe is worn out when people throw them away – usually just the tread layer – while the remaining 95% remains in excellent condition.
The process is both economical and environmentally responsible. By extending the life of your shoes through resoling, you’re keeping them out of landfills and reducing the demand for new manufacturing.
I’m Eric Neuner, founder of NuShoe, and since 1994, I’ve overseen the resoling of over 5 million pairs of shoes, including countless running shoes that have gone on to cover thousands more miles after our can you resole running shoes service restored their performance and comfort.
Can you resole running shoes terms at a glance:
– how often to change running shoes
Can You Resole Running Shoes? Understanding Shoe Construction
The answer to “can you resole running shoes” largely depends on how they’re constructed. Not all running shoes are created equal when it comes to resoling potential. Understanding the construction of your shoes is the first step in determining whether they’re good candidates for a new lease on life.
Stitched vs Cemented Builds: which last longer?
When examining your running shoes, look at how the sole connects to the upper—this reveals everything about their resoling potential.
Stitched construction shoes feature visible stitching that attaches the sole to the upper. You’ll find this more commonly in trail running shoes and premium models. These shoes are the dream candidates for resoling because the stitches can be carefully removed and replaced after attaching a new sole. The beauty of stitched shoes is their longevity—they’re generally more durable and can often undergo multiple resoling procedures, making them excellent long-term investments.
On the flip side, cemented construction (where soles are attached using industrial adhesives) dominates the modern running shoe market. As footwear expert Chris Woodford notes, “Most running shoes use cemented construction—soles glued to uppers—rather than welt or stitchdown methods.” While these shoes present more challenges for resoling, they’re absolutely not impossible to work with when you have the right expertise. The process requires careful removal of the old sole to preserve the upper’s integrity.
The gold standards of resoleable footwear—Goodyear welt and Blake stitch methods—are unfortunately rare in running shoes. However, if you’re lucky enough to own running shoes with these construction types, you’ve got ideal candidates for multiple resolings.
Cup Sole vs Flat Sole: why shape matters for resoles
The shape of your running shoe’s sole dramatically affects how straightforward the resoling process will be.
Flat soles are the simpler design with a relatively level bottom surface. These are common in minimalist running shoes and present fewer challenges during resoling. They require less customization and are easier to match with replacement materials, making the resoling process more straightforward and often less expensive.
Cup soles, which wrap around parts of the upper to create a “cup” shape, present a more complex resoling puzzle. These soles, typical in stability-focused running shoes, require custom-shaped replacements that perfectly match the original shoe’s last (the mold used to shape the shoe). As one experienced cobbler put it, “Sneakers with cup soles require custom replacement soles that fit the original last.” This is why factory resole programs, when available, often yield the best results for cup-soled running shoes.
At NuShoe, we’ve developed techniques to address cup sole challenges, but it’s important to understand that these shoes require more specialized attention than their flat-soled counterparts.
Can You Resole Running Shoes with Lightweight Foam Midsoles?
Modern running technology has brought us incredible lightweight foam midsoles—but they create unique resoling considerations.
The EVA compression issue is perhaps the biggest challenge. These foam midsoles naturally compress and lose their bounce over time. Simply slapping a new outsole on a compressed midsole won’t restore the shoe’s original feel. That’s why at NuShoe, we’ve developed techniques to address midsole fatigue during the resoling process for many models.
Carbon-plate models require extra special attention. These high-performance shoes contain rigid carbon fiber plates that fundamentally affect how the shoe flexes and performs. Any resoling work must preserve the integrity of this technical element, which requires specialized knowledge and techniques.
Perhaps the most noticeable change after resoling can be the weight difference. Replacement soles may add weight to lightweight shoes—sometimes significantly. One runner who had their Hoka Rincons resoled reported: “The resoled shoes weighed 772g versus 436g original, a gain of 313g per pair.” While they still found the shoes performed well on mixed terrain, this weight increase could impact running mechanics, especially for speed-focused runners.
We’ve worked hard at NuShoe to minimize weight gain in our resoling process, but it’s important to have realistic expectations about how your newly-resoled shoes might feel compared to their factory-fresh state. For many runners, the trade-off of extended shoe life and reduced environmental impact makes any slight weight increase worthwhile.
Looking for more details on which running shoes respond best to resoling? Check out our comprehensive guide to Resoleable Running Shoes for brand-specific information.
Benefits and Limitations of Resoling Running Shoes
When considering whether to resole your running shoes, it’s important to weigh the benefits against potential limitations. Let’s explore what you stand to gain—and what you might compromise—when choosing to resole rather than replace.
Financial Upside: dollars & cents
Your wallet will thank you when you choose to resole rather than replace your favorite runners. Professional resoling typically costs between $45-$100, which is roughly half the price of buying new high-quality running shoes that range from $100-$200.
Think about it – you’re essentially getting a second life from your shoes for half the cost. This is especially valuable if you’ve invested in premium running shoes that fit your feet perfectly. Why start the breaking-in process all over again when you can keep what works?
I recently heard from a customer who was thrilled after resoling their favorite pair: “Resoling at £36.90 is a great deal compared to buying new £105 shoes.” For serious runners who might go through multiple pairs yearly, these savings add up quickly – potentially hundreds of dollars annually that can go toward other running gear or race entries instead.
Environmental Wins: smaller footprint
Can you resole running shoes to help the planet? Absolutely! The environmental benefits are substantial and meaningful.
Manufacturing a single pair of running shoes produces approximately 14 kg of CO₂. By extending the life of your current shoes, you’re directly reducing your carbon footprint. It’s shocking to learn that only about 5% of a running shoe is typically worn out when most people discard them – usually just the outsole. The remaining 95% often still has plenty of life left!
Every pair of shoes kept out of the landfill matters. Millions of athletic shoes end up in dumps each year, where they can take up to 1,000 years to decompose. By participating in a more circular economy that values repair over replacement, you’re making a real difference. The research from ReRun Clothing confirms that extending product lifespans is one of the most effective ways to reduce waste in the footwear industry.
Potential Downsides to Note
I want to be completely honest with you – resoling isn’t perfect for every situation.
Your resoled shoes might feel different underfoot. Replacement soles can add some weight to your shoes, which might be noticeable if you’re a performance-focused runner. The ride feel might change too – sometimes for better (improved grip) and sometimes requiring an adjustment period.
The condition of your shoe’s upper is another crucial consideration. If the fabric is tearing, the heel counter is breaking down, or the lacing system is failing, a fresh sole won’t solve these problems. There’s also a small risk of adhesive failure, particularly with DIY methods.
One ultra-runner shared with me: “The resoled shoes felt different—heavier but with better grip on mixed terrain. It was a trade-off I was happy to make for trail running, but I might think twice for my road racing shoes.”
Can You Resole Running Shoes Multiple Times?
Many customers ask if they can resole their beloved running shoes over and over. The answer depends on several factors, but primarily the durability of the upper.
In our experience at NuShoe, quality running shoes can often be resoled 2-3 times before other components give out. The limiting factor is rarely the resoling process itself, but rather how well the upper holds up over time. Mesh materials, synthetic overlays, and heel counters all have their own lifespan.
Each resoling process does put some stress on the adhesive bonds between components. Additionally, while a new outsole restores your traction, it doesn’t address midsole compression – that foam layer that provides cushioning will continue to break down with use.
Knowing when to retire a shoe takes some honest assessment. If your upper shows significant wear, if the midsole has lost its bounce, or if the shoe no longer provides proper support, it might be time to recycle rather than resole. But until that point, resoling offers a smart way to extend the life of your favorite runners while being kinder to both your wallet and our planet.
The Resoling Process Step-by-Step (DIY vs Pro)
Understanding what happens during the resoling process can help you decide whether to attempt it yourself or seek professional help. Let’s walk through both approaches.
Professional Mail-In: what happens in the workshop
When you send your beloved running shoes to us at NuShoe or another professional resoling service, they start on a fascinating journey of renewal. First, our technicians carefully assess whether your shoes are good candidates for resoling. Not every pair makes the cut, but those that do move on to the preparation phase.
We thoroughly clean your shoes before carefully removing the worn outsole – a delicate process that requires precision to avoid damaging the upper or midsole. If your midsole needs reinforcement or repair, we handle that next, ensuring the foundation is solid before adding the new outsole.
Selecting the perfect outsole is something of an art form. We often use premium Vibram™ rubber, custom-cutting it to match your shoe’s exact specifications. The attachment process involves either industrial-grade adhesives or stitching, depending on your shoe’s construction. Then comes the crucial curing period – your shoes spend 24-48 hours in a press, allowing the adhesive to form a strong, lasting bond.
“I was amazed at how carefully they trimmed and finished the edges,” one customer told us. “My shoes looked nearly factory-fresh.” This finishing touch is followed by rigorous quality control to ensure proper bonding and performance.
The entire process typically takes 3-6 weeks including shipping, which might seem lengthy, but patience pays off with 300-500 additional miles of running enjoyment. As one satisfied runner shared: “The turnaround time was promised as 5 days, actual 8 days including shipping.” Your timeline may vary based on our current workload and the complexity of your specific resoling needs.
DIY Methods for Tinkerers
If you’re the hands-on type who enjoys a weekend project, several DIY approaches might appeal to you. The simplest repair involves Shoe Goo, a flexible adhesive that works wonders for minor outsole damage. Clean and dry the damaged area, apply thin layers of the adhesive, spread it evenly, and allow 24-48 hours to cure completely. At just $15.99 on Amazon, it’s an affordable fix for extending shoe life.
For more adventurous DIYers, the bike tire tread method offers a creative solution. One resourceful runner explained, “Using an old bike tire and Boot-Fix glue to replace the bottom layer of a worn running shoe sole cost me only $15 for the glue.” After cleaning and sanding the existing sole, you cut strips from an old bike tire, apply contact cement to both surfaces, press firmly, and trim the excess for a clean finish.
Some runners even experiment with foam mat resoling, using interlocking floor mat material to create a new outsole. While ingenious, these homemade solutions typically add fewer miles (100-300) than professional resoling and may alter the feel of your favorite running shoes significantly.
When to Choose Pros over DIY
While DIY approaches have their charm, there are definite situations where professional services like ours at NuShoe make more sense. If your shoes have complex midsoles with specialized technology, attempting DIY resoling could compromise their performance. Similarly, expensive racing or performance shoes deserve professional treatment to protect your investment.
Shoes with sentimental value or particular performance characteristics you love are also worth the professional touch. As one of our cobblers explains, “Canvas or synthetic uppers will likely tear during the removal process, so peeling-off soles on these aren’t worth resoling. Leather uppers may survive but require expert care.”
Time constraints also factor in – professional resoling saves you hours of trial and error, not to mention the specialized tools and materials required for a proper job. While DIY methods make sense for emergency repairs or when you’re willing to experiment with older shoes, professional resoling offers peace of mind and typically more lasting results.
When you’re ready to give your favorite running shoes new life, check out more information about our resole running shoes service. We’ve been breathing new life into beloved footwear since 1994, and can you resole running shoes is a question we’re always happy to answer with a resounding “yes!”
Cost, Longevity & Sustainability Facts
Let’s examine the concrete numbers behind resoling running shoes to help you make an informed decision about extending your footwear’s life.
What a Resoled Shoe Typically Lasts
When you invest in resoling your favorite runners, you’re buying yourself significant extra mileage. Professional resoling typically adds 300-500 miles to your shoes – that’s months of additional running enjoyment from footwear you’ve already broken in perfectly.
DIY repairs tend to be less durable, generally adding about 100-300 miles depending on your materials and technique. Still, that’s valuable extra life from shoes that might otherwise end up in a landfill.
Most runners report their resoled shoes deliver about 70-80% of their original lifespan, which is impressive considering you’re only replacing part of the shoe. I recently spoke with an ultra-runner who logged over 1,700 miles in a single year on his resoled shoes – proof that quality repairs can truly go the distance.
Your mileage will vary based on several factors. Trail runners will wear through soles faster than road warriors. Heavier runners naturally put more stress on outsoles. Your running style matters too – heel strikers tend to wear through the back portion more quickly than midfoot strikers. And of course, premium materials like Vibram™ rubber typically outlast standard options.
One tip our repair experts at NuShoe always share: “Rotate multiple pairs of shoes to allow foam midsoles to decompress between runs.” This simple habit extends the life of all your running shoes, resoled or not.
Hidden Costs to Watch For
While can you resole running shoes has a positive answer, it’s worth being aware of all potential costs before making your decision.
Shipping costs for mail-in services typically run $20-25 each way – a significant consideration when calculating your total investment. If you’re in a hurry to get back on the road, rush fees can add another $15-30 to the base price.
Premium materials like Vibram™ rubber cost more but deliver superior performance and longevity. If your shoes need additional work beyond the outsole – perhaps some upper patching or midsole reinforcement – that will increase your total as well.
For particularly valuable shoes, consider return shipping insurance. As one budget-conscious runner told me: “Even with shipping fees, I saved over $60 compared to buying a new pair of the same model.” The math still works out in favor of resoling in most cases.
At NuShoe, we’ve repaired over 5 million pairs of shoes since 1994, and our data shows that about 30% of all running shoe repairs involve worn-out heels. This insight has helped us develop specialized techniques to reinforce these high-wear areas, further extending your shoes’ lifespan.
When you consider that a typical resoling service costs between $45-$100 (plus shipping), compared to $100-$200 for new shoes, the value becomes clear. Factor in the 1-3 week turnaround time, and you’re looking at a service that saves you money while keeping perfectly good shoes out of landfills. For more details about our specific repair options, check out our Running Shoes Repair page.
Frequently Asked Questions About Resoling Running Shoes
Can a hole in the mesh be fixed during resoling?
Good news for those of you with beloved running shoes that have developed pesky holes – yes, mesh holes can absolutely be fixed during the resoling process! The approach we take depends on the size and location of your shoe’s damage.
For small tears, we use specialized fabric adhesives that maintain the flexibility your running shoes need. Medium-sized holes typically call for patching with similar material, which we secure with both adhesive and stitching for durability. When facing larger damage, we might need to replace an entire panel – it’s more complex but definitely possible in many cases.
I’ve seen some creative solutions from runners over the years too. One particularly resourceful customer shared: “I use Polydoh mouldable plastic for patching upper holes—it creates a custom-fit repair.” While innovative, for lasting results, we typically recommend professional repairs that combine both adhesives and stitching reinforcement.
That location matters when it comes to repair durability. Holes in high-flex areas like the toe box can be more challenging to repair permanently compared to damage in more static areas. At NuShoe, we carefully evaluate each shoe individually to determine the most effective repair approach for your specific situation.
How long does a resole take door-to-door?
When planning to resole your favorite running shoes, timing is everything – especially if you’ve got races on the calendar! The complete resoling journey typically takes about 3-6 weeks total, including shipping both ways.
Here’s what happens during that time: First, we spend 1-3 days assessing your shoes and getting them into our production queue. The actual resoling work takes 1-2 days of hands-on craftsmanship. Then comes the crucial curing time – a minimum of 24-48 hours where we let the adhesives properly set. This isn’t something we rush, as proper curing ensures your new soles won’t separate prematurely. After that, we spend a day on quality control before shipping your refreshed shoes back to you, which typically takes 2-5 days depending on your location.
Many customers are pleasantly surprised by our turnaround times. As one runner shared: “It took eight days total with shipping, which was longer than the promised five days but still reasonable.” While we at NuShoe always strive to provide accurate timeframes, we recommend planning ahead if you need your shoes for an upcoming event. And yes, we do offer rush services for those “I need these for my marathon next week!” situations, though these may include additional fees.
Will my shoe’s weight or drop change after resoling?
Being transparent about what to expect after resoling is important to us – and yes, resoling will likely affect both the weight and potentially the drop of your running shoes.
Regarding weight, most resoled running shoes do gain some heft due to the new material added. Typical weight increases range from 50-300 grams per pair, with the specific amount depending on the replacement sole material and coverage needed. One runner who had their Hoka Rincons resoled noted: “The resoled shoes weighed 772g versus 436g original, a gain of 313g per pair.” Despite this significant increase, they reported the shoes still performed well for their needs.
As for the drop (that heel-to-toe height difference runners care about), our professional resoling services strive to maintain your original specifications. You might experience minor variations of 1-2mm, but we work hard to keep your shoes feeling familiar. And if you’re actually looking to change your drop – perhaps you want less heel height or more cushioning – we can customize that upon request.
At NuShoe, we’ve refined our techniques over millions of repairs to minimize weight gain while ensuring durability. We understand that maintaining your shoe’s original characteristics is important to your running mechanics and comfort. Just let us know if you have specific concerns about weight or drop when you send in your shoes, and we’ll do our best to accommodate your preferences while still delivering a durable, long-lasting resole.
Conclusion & Next Steps
So, can you resole running shoes? We’ve explored this question thoroughly, and the answer is a resounding yes for many shoes, though with some important caveats. Resoling isn’t just possible—it’s a smart choice that benefits both your wallet and our planet.
Throughout this guide, we’ve seen that shoes with stitched construction and durable uppers make the best candidates for a second life. While fully cemented shoes present more challenges, they aren’t automatically excluded from the resoling possibility. Your decision between tackling this as a DIY project or seeking professional help should reflect both your comfort with shoe repair and how much you value those particular running shoes.
The environmental benefits of resoling deserve special attention. Each new pair of running shoes generates approximately 14kg of CO₂ during production—an impact you can avoid by extending the life of shoes you already own. By choosing repair over replacement, you’re taking a meaningful stance against throwaway culture and reducing the steady stream of perfectly good footwear heading to our landfills.
Think about it: when you resole instead of replace, you’re making a choice that ripples beyond just your running routine. You’re participating in a more sustainable approach to athletic gear, one that values durability and repair skills over constant consumption.
At NuShoe, we’ve been breathing new life into beloved footwear since 1994. Our craftspeople have renewed over 5 million pairs of shoes in that time, developing techniques that preserve what you love about your runners while replacing what’s worn out. We’re constantly refining our methods to deliver the best possible results for runners of every stripe—from weekend joggers to ultra-marathoners.
Are your favorite running shoes showing signs of outsole wear while the uppers still have plenty of life left? Don’t retire them prematurely. Learn more about our resole service and join thousands of runners who’ve finded that the end of your sole doesn’t have to mean the end of your shoes.
With proper care and timely resoling, those trusted companions can carry you through hundreds more miles of trip. Your feet will thank you for the familiar fit, your budget will appreciate the savings, and the planet will benefit from one less pair of shoes in the waste stream. That’s what we call a win-win-win.