Saving Your Soles: Why Runners Fix Their Shoes
If you need a quick solution for how to repair holes in running shoes, here are the most effective methods:
| Method | Best For | Materials Needed | Durability |
|---|---|---|---|
| Adhesive patches | Small holes (< 1/2 inch) | Shoe Goo, Stormsure | 150-250 miles |
| Fabric patching | Medium holes | Matching fabric, fabric glue | 200-300 miles |
| Sewing repair | Mesh tears | Thread, needle | 300+ miles |
| Commercial kits | Any size hole | Trainer Armour, PairUps | 500-800 miles |
How to repair holes in running shoes is a common challenge for runners who aren’t ready to retire their favorite footwear. Whether you’re dealing with a toe-box blowout, heel liner wear, or sole separation, fixing these issues can extend your shoes’ life by hundreds of miles while saving money and reducing waste.
The frustration of finding a hole in your running shoes often strikes at the worst time – right before a race or during a long training cycle when you’re perfectly broken in. But with the right repair approach, that hole doesn’t have to mean the end of your favorite runners.
I’m Eric Neuner, founder of NuShoe, and since 1994 I’ve overseen the repair of over 5 million pairs of shoes, including countless running shoes with holes that we’ve successfully restored to extend their life and performance for runners concerned about how to repair holes in running shoes.
Must-know how to repair holes in running shoes terms:
– best running shoe repair glue
– how to repair running shoes
– running shoe mesh repair
Why This Guide Matters
The numbers tell a compelling story: according to forum data, some runners report mesh upper holes in popular trail shoes like the Saucony Peregrine after as little as 150 miles, while others get over 1,000 miles before significant wear. With running shoes typically costing $120-$180 per pair, extending their life through repair can save serious money.
Beyond your wallet, there’s a significant environmental impact. Manufacturing a single pair of running shoes produces approximately 13.6 kg of CO₂. By repairing rather than replacing, you’re keeping shoes out of landfills where they can take 30-40 years to decompose.
As one ultramarathoner shared with us, “I’ve extended my shoes from 500 to over 1,300 kilometers using simple repairs. That’s like getting an extra pair for free while keeping three shoes out of the landfill.”
Spot the Damage: Most Common Hole Hotspots
Before reaching for your repair kit, let’s take a closer look at where your beloved runners are most likely to fail. After helping restore millions of shoes at NuShoe, I’ve seen the same vulnerable areas time and again.
Toebox mesh tends to be the first casualty in the life of a running shoe. About one in five runners will notice this area failing first, especially if you have wider feet or your toes tend to hyperextend during your stride. That mesh simply wasn’t designed to handle the constant pressure and flexing.
The heel liner inside your shoe silently suffers thousands of friction points every run. Eventually, that persistent rubbing wears through the fabric, exposing the rigid heel counter beneath – hello, blisters! Similarly, those flex points where your shoe bends with each stride take a remarkable beating – flexing 160-200 times per minute during your average run.
For those wondering why the area right above your big toe always seems to give out first, you can thank big-toe hyperextension. This natural movement puts extraordinary stress on lightweight racing shoes in particular. Meanwhile, mid-sole blowouts reveal themselves as compression failures in the foam, sometimes creating holes that go straight through to the outsole.
Don’t underestimate the destructive power of grit abrasion either. Those tiny particles that work their way between your sock and shoe act like sandpaper with every step you take. I remember one customer’s story that really drives this home: “My Saucony Peregrines developed holes at the flex point after just 150 miles, but my friend’s identical pair lasted 700 miles. The difference? He rinses his after every muddy run to remove abrasive grit.”
Understanding these common failure points is your first step in learning how to repair holes in running shoes effectively. By identifying exactly where and why your shoes are breaking down, you can apply the right fix and extend their life significantly.
Why Holes Develop & When to Repair vs. Replace
Ever wonder why your favorite running shoes seem to develop holes in the same spots? Understanding the “why” behind your shoe breakdown can help you make smarter decisions about whether to grab the repair kit or hit the shoe store.
The Science Behind the Holes
Your running shoes take a beating with every stride. The average runner puts their shoes through about 160-200 flexes per minute—that’s a lot of stress on lightweight materials designed for comfort and performance!
Material fatigue is the silent killer of running shoes. Those breathable mesh uppers that keep your feet cool are also the most vulnerable to breaking down. After thousands of flex cycles, even the best materials start to weaken and tear.
Your unique gait biomechanics play a huge role too. Whether you overpronate, supinate, or have a powerful toe-off, your running style creates focused pressure points. I’ve seen countless runners with identical shoes develop holes in completely different areas based solely on how they run.
Terrain impact can’t be overlooked either. Trail runners, you know what I’m talking about! Those rocks, roots, and gritty surfaces are like sandpaper on your shoes. One muddy trail run can introduce enough abrasive elements to accelerate wear dramatically compared to road running.
Repair or Replace? The Decision Matrix
Not sure whether to fix those holes or spring for new kicks? Here’s how to decide:
Your shoes are probably worth repairing when:
– The cushioning still feels springy and responsive
– The outsole tread has good remaining depth
– The holes are confined to specific areas rather than widespread
– You’re emotionally attached to the model (especially if it’s been discontinued!)
– Your shoes have less than 400-500 miles on them
It’s time to shop for new shoes when:
– The midsole feels flat or “dead” when you run
– You’re seeing multiple structural failures throughout the shoe
– You’re experiencing new aches, pains, or injuries
– The repair costs would exceed 50% of what new shoes would cost
“I was ready to trash my Hokas after the upper tore,” one San Diego runner told us, “but a $15 repair kit gave them 300 more miles. Best running investment I’ve made.”
At NuShoe, we’ve seen thousands of running shoes that looked destined for the landfill get a second life through how to repair holes in running shoes techniques. The truth is that most shoes are discarded prematurely, often when the cushioning and structure still have hundreds of miles left to give.
Early intervention makes a big difference. A small hole caught early is much easier to repair effectively than waiting until it’s grown to the size of a quarter. Many runners keep a small tube of Shoe Goo in their gear bag for immediate spot repairs when they notice the first signs of wear.
Your decision should balance performance needs, budget considerations, and sustainability goals. For many runners, learning how to repair holes in running shoes becomes not just a money-saving skill but a way to reduce their environmental footprint in a sport that unfortunately generates significant waste. For more information on the environmental impact of footwear, check out The Green Runners’ research on footwear sustainability.
Essential Materials & Tools for DIY Shoe Surgery
The difference between a repair that falls apart after your first run and one that lasts hundreds of miles comes down to having the right supplies. After helping restore over 5 million pairs of shoes at NuShoe, we’ve learned exactly what works best for runners wondering how to repair holes in running shoes.
Must-Have Materials
That hole in your favorite running shoes doesn’t stand a chance when you’ve got the right repair toolkit ready. I always tell runners to gather these essentials before starting any repair:
You’ll want a sturdy needle paired with upholstery or nylon thread that can withstand the constant flexing running shoes endure. For adhesives, nothing beats specialized formulas like Shoe Goo, Stormsure Shoe Glu, or Gorilla Glue when it comes to flexibility and durability.
Those bigger holes? Consider specialized patches like Trainer Armour or PairUps kits. I’ve even seen clever runners repurpose bicycle puncture repair patches with great success. For custom-shaped repairs, moldable plastic pellets (like Polydoh) can be heated and shaped exactly where you need reinforcement.
Don’t forget your prep supplies – rubbing alcohol, cotton balls, and an old toothbrush will ensure proper adhesion. And keep basic tools handy: scissors, fine-grit sandpaper, and (here’s a pro tip) ice cubes for smoothing adhesive without leaving fingerprints.
Adhesives vs. Patches: Which Works Best?
Every runner asks me this question, so I’ve created this comparison to help you choose the right solution for your specific shoe injury:
| Repair Method | Pros | Cons | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Shoe Goo | Flexible, waterproof, durable | Visible repair, can be messy | Sole separations, small holes |
| Fabric Patches | Clean look, reinforces large areas | Requires sewing skills | Upper mesh tears |
| Commercial Kits | Pre-sized, easy application | More expensive | Toe box holes, heel wear |
| Duct Tape | Immediate fix, cheap | Temporary, unattractive | Emergency repairs |
| Mouldable Plastic | Custom-shaped, rigid support | Technical to apply | Structural failures |
After repairing thousands of running shoes, I’ve finded a game-changing tip: store your Shoe Goo in the freezer between uses. This prevents it from hardening in the tube and saves you from buying a new tube for each small repair. One tube can handle multiple fixes if stored properly!
The right materials make all the difference when figuring out how to repair holes in running shoes. I’ve seen runners transform seemingly dead shoes into reliable training partners for hundreds more miles with just $15 worth of supplies. Your perfect repair solution depends on where the hole is located and how you use your shoes – a trail runner in muddy conditions needs a different approach than a road marathon racer.
For a deeper dive into adhesive options, check out our guide to the best running shoe repair glue where we test and compare the most durable options for active runners.
How to Repair Holes in Running Shoes – Step-by-Step
Ready to breathe new life into your beloved runners? Let’s explore the nitty-gritty of how to repair holes in running shoes with methods that actually last. After helping restore over 5 million pairs at NuShoe, I can promise these aren’t just quick fixes—they’re genuine solutions.
Preparation (Essential for All Repairs)
The secret to a lasting repair starts before you even touch that adhesive. Think of this as the warm-up before your run—skip it, and you’ll regret it later!
First, thoroughly clean the damaged area with rubbing alcohol to remove dirt, sweat, and oils that could prevent proper adhesion. Give your shoes a good 1-2 hours to dry completely—patience pays off here. Next, lightly sand any smooth surfaces to create texture that adhesives can grip onto. Protect surrounding areas with painter’s tape to keep your repair looking professional, not messy. For shoes with multiple issues, always work from the inside out for best results.
Upper Mesh Fix (how to repair holes in running shoes)
Those pesky toe box holes are practically a runner’s rite of passage. Here’s how to handle them like a pro:
For tiny troublemakers (under ½ inch), start by removing the insole to access the interior. Cut a patch from matching fabric about ½ inch larger than the hole all around. If using non-adhesive material, apply fabric glue to the edges, then position it from inside the shoe directly behind the hole. Press firmly for a minute, smoothing outward to banish air bubbles. For extra durability, add a thin layer of Shoe Goo over the outside of the hole. Let it rest for 24 hours—your patience will be rewarded.
Larger holes need a different approach. Thread a sturdy needle with about 18 inches of strong thread and tie a secure knot. Working from inside the shoe, create a web of small, even stitches across the hole until it’s closed. Reinforce your handiwork with a fabric patch as described above. For truly professional results, check out specialized mesh repair kits like PairUps, which include materials specifically engineered for running shoes.
“I thought my favorite Nikes were goners after my big toe made its grand escape,” shares Maria, a marathon runner from Seattle. “But after a simple patch-and-stitch repair, they’ve carried me through another 300 miles with no issues!”
For more detailed guidance on mesh repairs specifically, check out our guide on how to repair sneaker mesh.
Sole & Midsole Plug
When your sole develops a hole, every puddle becomes your enemy. Here’s how to fix it:
Start by removing the insole to access the problem area. Create a backing by covering the hole from inside with duct tape or fabric—this gives your repair something to build upon. Clean the area thoroughly with rubbing alcohol and allow it to dry completely. Next comes the magic: apply Shoe Goo in thin, progressive layers rather than one thick glob. Let each layer partially set before adding the next. For a smooth, professional finish, run an ice cube over the Goo while it’s still workable. Give your repair a full 24-hour cure, then gently sand the edges flush with the rest of the sole. Replace the insole, and you’re back in business!
“After plugging a quarter-sized hole in my trail runners, I deliberately ran through streams on my next outing,” tells James, an ultrarunner from Colorado. “My feet stayed completely dry, and the repair has held up for hundreds of miles of abuse.”
For scientific research on sole patching techniques, check out iFixit’s comprehensive guide on repairing shoe soles.
Heel Liner Reinforcement
A worn heel liner isn’t just uncomfortable—it’s a blister factory. Here’s our time-tested solution:
Cut a piece of denim or similarly tough fabric to cover the worn area. Remove the insole and apply flexible shoe glue to the back of your fabric patch. Position it carefully over the damaged area and press firmly to ensure good contact. For extra security, use a curved needle and strong thread to stitch the top edge of the patch to the shoe’s interior. Replace the insole and allow 24 hours for the glue to fully bond.
If you’re looking for a quicker fix, self-adhesive heel liners work wonders when properly applied. Simply peel off the backing, position the liner over the worn area, and activate the adhesive with 30 seconds of heat from a hair dryer. Press firmly for another half minute to ensure it’s properly bonded.
“The heel liner in my favorite running shoes was completely shredded,” recalls Tom from Boston. “I was skeptical a repair would hold, but the denim patch method not only fixed the problem, it actually feels more comfortable than the original liner!”
These repair methods aren’t just theoretical—they’re battle-tested by thousands of runners and perfected through NuShoe’s decades of experience. With proper care, your repairs can add hundreds of miles to your favorite running companions. For more detailed guidance, check out our specialized resources on shoe adhesive repair and how to repair sneaker mesh.
Pros & Cons of Popular Repair Methods
When it comes to fixing your running shoes, not all methods deliver the same results. After helping restore over 5 million pairs at NuShoe, we’ve seen what works—and what doesn’t.
Adhesive-Only Repairs
The glue-only approach is perfect when you need a quick fix with minimal fuss. Shoe Goo and similar adhesives create waterproof seals that flex with your stride, and you don’t need special skills to apply them. One runner told us, “I fixed a small hole in my Nikes with Shoe Goo before a weekend trip, and they held up perfectly through a muddy 10K.”
The downside? These repairs can be pretty obvious (goodbye, sleek aesthetics). They also tend to fail faster in high-flex areas, and if you skip proper surface prep, you’ll be reapplying sooner than you’d like. Plus, let’s be honest—most of us end up with more adhesive on our fingers than on the actual shoes.
Sewing-Only Repairs
There’s something satisfying about a well-executed stitch repair. Thread-based fixes maintain that all-important fabric flexibility and can be nearly invisible when you match thread colors properly. They add virtually no weight to your shoes and work beautifully for those pesky mesh tears.
“I’ve become surprisingly good at tiny stitches,” shared a marathon runner from Boston. “My repaired shoes have survived three rainy races without issues.”
The trade-offs? Sewing takes time and at least basic needle skills. These repairs aren’t waterproof without additional treatment, and sometimes the stitching creates new stress points that lead to tears elsewhere.
Commercial Patch Kits
For those who want convenience, pre-made repair kits like Trainer Armour and PairUps offer serious advantages. They’re specifically designed for athletic shoes with pre-sized patches for common problem areas. Most include everything you need plus detailed instructions—perfect if you’re not confident in your DIY skills.
You’ll pay more for this convenience, though, and color options can be limited. Some patches don’t conform perfectly to every shoe shape, especially in the toe box area. We’ve also heard from customers who struggled to find these kits when they needed them most.
Hybrid Approach (Our Recommendation)
After thousands of repairs, we’ve found that combining methods consistently delivers the longest-lasting results. At NuShoe, we typically stitch tears closed first, then reinforce with an appropriate adhesive and patch. This approach provides both structural integrity and waterproof protection.
“The hybrid approach saved my favorite trail runners,” one ultramarathoner told us. “The repair has outlasted the original material in other parts of the shoe—I’ve added another 400 miles to shoes I thought were goners.”
The only real downsides are the time investment and slightly higher skill level required. You’ll need more materials on hand, and it might feel like overkill for tiny holes. But if you’re looking to maximize the lifespan of your running shoes, this extra effort pays off tremendously.
Our repair technicians at NuShoe have a saying: “Good repairs are like good training—consistency and proper technique matter more than fancy equipment.” Whether you choose adhesives, stitching, patches, or a combination, taking your time with preparation will always lead to better, longer-lasting results.
How Long Will the Fix Last? Performance & Longevity
Let’s talk about what every runner really wants to know – will your DIY shoe repair actually hold up mile after mile? I’ve tracked thousands of repair outcomes over the years, and here’s the honest truth about durability:
A good repair job doesn’t just add a few casual jogs to your shoe’s lifespan. When done right, you’re looking at significant mileage extensions. Adhesive-only repairs typically give you another 150-250 miles of happy running. If you’ve used fabric patches with glue, expect about 200-300 additional miles before you’ll need to revisit your handiwork. Hand-sewn repairs are surprisingly durable, often adding 300+ miles to mesh uppers. The champions of longevity are commercial kits like Trainer Armour, which consistently deliver an impressive 500-800 extra kilometers.
But durability is just one piece of the puzzle. Your repaired shoes need to perform like, well… shoes!
Water resistance remains a crucial factor for many runners. The adhesive repairs I’ve tracked generally maintain better waterproofing than sewn repairs. This makes sense – thread creates tiny channels where water can seep through, while a properly applied adhesive creates a waterproof seal.
“My Shoe Goo repair kept my feet completely dry through three rainy trail runs,” shared one customer. “I was shocked since the original mesh had failed after just one puddle splash.”
Flexibility matters too, especially for performance-oriented runners. Thin, strategic patches maintain your shoe’s natural flex pattern far better than thick globs of adhesive. If you’re heavy-handed with Shoe Goo, you might create a stiff spot that changes your stride – something to avoid at all costs.
Before you lace up those freshly repaired kicks for race day, give them a proper test drive. I always recommend at least two training runs in repaired shoes before trusting them for competition. This gives you time to identify any hot spots or issues that might emerge under pressure.
One important note that often gets overlooked: DIY repairs will likely void any remaining manufacturer warranty. This typically isn’t an issue for shoes with enough miles to develop holes, but it’s worth knowing before you start your repair project.
The feedback we receive from real runners confirms what we’ve seen in our repair shop. As one Amazon reviewer noted about self-adhesive shoe repair patches: “After applying these patches to my running shoes six months ago, they’re still holding strong after 500+ miles. I’m impressed with how well they’ve integrated with the shoe fabric.”
For the absolute best results with your how to repair holes in running shoes project, check out our guide to the best running shoe repair glue to ensure you’re using the right adhesive for your specific type of damage. The difference between a repair that lasts 50 miles and one that lasts 500 often comes down to using the right materials for the job.
Eco-Friendly & Preventive Tips
We’ve seen it all at NuShoe – from barely worn shoes with preventable damage to well-loved runners that have logged thousands of miles thanks to proper care. After repairing over 5 million pairs since 1994, we’ve learned a thing or two about keeping shoes out of landfills and reducing the environmental footprint of running.
Prevent Before You Repair
Your best repair is the one you never have to make. One of our longtime customers, an ultramarathoner from Colorado, swears by rotating between multiple pairs of running shoes. “It gives each pair time to fully decompress and dry out,” she told us. “I’ve doubled the lifespan of my shoes since adopting this habit.” This simple practice can extend your shoes’ life by up to 100%.
That gritty trail mud isn’t just uncomfortable – it’s like sandpaper inside your shoes. A UK runner shared his secret to getting 1400 km from his Peregrine 11s: “I rinse after every muddy run to remove all the abrasive grit. Takes 30 seconds but adds months of life.” Just be sure to stuff them with newspaper and let them dry naturally – never in the dryer!
Early intervention is your secret weapon against developing holes. “Think of it like dental care,” our head repair technician often says. “A tiny dab of Shoe Goo at the first sign of mesh thinning is like flossing – a small effort that prevents bigger problems.”
For expensive running shoes, consider preventive reinforcement with products like Shoe Armour. These thin patches can be applied to new shoes to strengthen known weak points before they fail – particularly effective for runners who consistently wear through the same spots.
Proper sizing matters more than most runners realize. Shoes that are too small create excess pressure at flex points, leading to premature holes. Always buy running shoes a half-size larger than your everyday shoes to allow for foot swelling during long runs.
Don’t overlook those toenails! Keeping them trimmed straight across and filing any sharp edges prevents them from becoming tiny daggers that puncture your toe box from the inside out.
Sustainable Repair Practices
When repairs become necessary, think creatively about materials. Those old bicycle inner tube patches gathering dust in your garage? They work brilliantly for small running shoe holes. The rubber is flexible, waterproof, and designed to withstand pressure – perfect for shoe repairs.
Before tossing that worn-out t-shirt, consider its potential as patch material. Cotton/polyester blends make excellent internal patches for running shoes. One creative customer even used material from her marathon finisher shirts to patch her favorite training shoes – a sentimental and practical solution.
When selecting adhesives, look for water-based options when available. They have a lower environmental impact and often create less waste. Every small choice adds up when it comes to sustainability.
For your highest-quality running shoes, professional repair services like NuShoe can often perform comprehensive restoration that’s still significantly cheaper than replacement. We use specialized equipment and techniques that extend shoe life far beyond what most DIY repairs can achieve.
“Manufacturing one pair of running shoes produces about 13.6 kg of CO₂,” our sustainability director reminds us. “Every pair we repair instead of replace represents significant carbon savings.” When you learn how to repair holes in running shoes, you’re not just saving money – you’re making a meaningful environmental choice.
The best runners know that sustainable running isn’t just about what you eat or how you train – it’s also about the footprint your footwear leaves on the planet. As one customer proudly told us, “My repair kit has kept six pairs of shoes out of the landfill this year alone. That feels as good as finishing a race.”
Frequently Asked Questions about How to Repair Holes in Running Shoes
Is DIY repair safe for high-mileage training?
Absolutely, but technique matters! If you’re logging serious weekly mileage (50+ miles), your repairs need to stand up to the challenge. We’ve found that combining methods – what we call the “hybrid approach” – gives you the most durable results for serious training. This means reinforcing your stitching with adhesive or vice versa.
One marathon runner told us, “I was skeptical about training in my repaired Nikes, but after testing them on a few 5-milers without issues, I confidently wore them through a 20-mile training run with zero problems.”
Remember to ease into using your newly repaired shoes. Start with a shorter run to make sure the repair holds and that the shoe still feels right. Pay close attention to how your feet feel afterward – any new hotspots or discomfort might indicate the repair has slightly changed the shoe’s geometry or cushioning profile, which could affect your running mechanics.
Which glue works in wet, cold trail conditions?
Trail runners face unique challenges when it comes to how to repair holes in running shoes. Not all adhesives can handle stream crossings or freezing temperatures!
For those tough wet and cold conditions, we’ve tested dozens of products and consistently recommend Stormsure Shoe Glu and Aquaseal FD. These champions maintain their flexibility even when temperatures drop to freezing, and they create truly waterproof bonds that won’t fail when you splash through puddles.
The secret to success with these adhesives is patience and technique. Rather than globbing on one thick layer (which might never fully cure), apply multiple thin layers, allowing each to partially set before adding the next. And while it’s tempting to hit the trails immediately, give your repair at least 48 hours to fully cure in a warm, dry environment before subjecting it to harsh conditions.
“I repaired my trail runners with Aquaseal before a winter ultramarathon in Scotland,” shared one customer. “Despite constant rain and near-freezing temperatures, the repair held perfectly through 64 miles of punishment.”
Can repairs void brand warranties?
Here’s the honest truth – in most cases, yes. DIY repairs typically void any remaining manufacturer warranty. It’s the classic trade-off: fix your shoes now or preserve the possibility of a warranty claim.
However, there’s a middle path! Professional repairs through brand-authorized services (including NuShoe’s partnerships with several national footwear brands) may preserve your warranty coverage. If your shoes are relatively new and showing premature wear, it’s worth contacting the manufacturer first to explore your options.
One savvy trail runner shared her experience: “After my Hokas developed upper tears at just 200 miles, I reached out to customer service. When they wouldn’t replace them under warranty, I knew I had nothing to lose by repairing them myself. My DIY fix might have voided the warranty, but it gave me another 400 miles of running – a fair trade in my book!”
Most running shoe warranties only cover manufacturing defects, not normal wear and tear. So by the time most shoes develop holes, they’re likely outside warranty coverage anyway. At that point, how to repair holes in running shoes becomes not just an economic decision but an environmental one too – every repaired pair means one less in the landfill.
Conclusion
After giving new life to over 5 million pairs of shoes at NuShoe since 1994, we’ve seen that knowing how to repair holes in running shoes isn’t just a money-saving trick—it’s a game-changer for runners who’ve formed a bond with their perfect pair.
That small tear in your mesh upper or worn-down heel liner doesn’t have to spell the end for your trusty training partners. With the right tools and techniques, you can add hundreds of meaningful miles to shoes that have already molded perfectly to your feet.
There’s something deeply satisfying about extending the life of running shoes that have carried you through countless training sessions, races, and personal milestones. As one ultrarunner told us after repairing his favorite trail shoes, “These aren’t just shoes anymore—they’ve earned the right to keep going, just like I have.”
The environmental impact of your repair efforts can’t be overstated. With a staggering 20 billion pairs of shoes manufactured annually worldwide, and athletic footwear taking 30-40 years to break down in landfills, every repair keeps one more pair out of the waste stream. Your simple act of fixing rather than tossing reduces your carbon footprint in a meaningful way.
As our founder Eric Neuner likes to remind us with a smile, “The most sustainable shoe is the one already sitting in your closet.” By mastering these repair techniques, you’re joining a growing community of runners who understand that sustainability and performance can go hand in hand.
For those runners who’d rather leave repairs to the professionals—or who have particularly treasured shoes needing expert attention—our skilled craftspeople at NuShoe’s San Diego workshop are ready to help. Our specialized running-shoes repair services have helped countless runners extend their relationship with their favorite footwear.
Remember: that hole in your running shoe isn’t the finish line. With some patience, the right materials, and the techniques we’ve shared, you can transform your worn favorites back into reliable training companions. From holes to whole, you’ll be back on the road or trail, making new memories in shoes that already know every contour of your feet.