Give Your Running Shoes a Second Life
How to resole running shoes in 5 simple steps:
- Clean and prep – Remove dirt and sand surfaces with 120-grit sandpaper
- Select materials – Choose shoe-specific adhesive and appropriate outsole material
- Apply adhesive – Use thin, even layers on both surfaces and let become tacky
- Bond surfaces – Carefully align and press together, then clamp for 24-48 hours
- Trim and finish – Remove excess material and test before running
Running shoes often end up in landfills when only about 5% of the shoe is actually worn out – typically just the outsole’s tread layer. This wasteful practice impacts your wallet and contributes to the approximately 14 kilograms of carbon dioxide produced when manufacturing a new pair. By learning how to resole running shoes, you can extend their life by 300-500+ miles, save $100-170 compared to buying new ones, and reduce your carbon footprint by about 30 pounds per pair.
I’m Eric Neuner, founder of NuShoe Inc., America’s finest shoe repair service since 1994, and I’ve personally overseen the resoling of millions of running shoes with our specialized how to resole running shoes techniques that restore up to 90% of original performance.
Common how to resole running shoes vocab:
– can you resole running shoes
– how often to change running shoes
Why Resole Instead of Replace
Let’s be real – running shoes can put a serious dent in your wallet. With premium models easily hitting the $120-180 range, replacing them every few months adds up fast. But this isn’t just about saving money – it’s about making smarter choices for your feet and our planet.
That “replace your shoes every 500 miles” rule? It’s more marketing magic than scientific fact. Research shows quality running shoes can last well beyond 1,000 miles with proper care and timely repairs. The shocking truth is that when most runners toss their trusted trainers, only about 5% of the shoe is actually worn out – usually just that thin layer of tread on the bottom.
Here at NuShoe, we’ve rescued thousands of perfectly good uppers and midsoles that were headed for landfills simply because of minor outsole wear. This throwaway mindset runs counter to the circular economy principles we believe in – keeping products and materials in use as long as possible.
Think about that pair that carried you through your first marathon – don’t they deserve a second chance? Or what about your favorite model that’s been discontinued? These sentimental pairs often fit like a glove, and breaking in new shoes means risking blisters and discomfort all over again.
There’s science behind sticking with what works, too. Research published in the American Journal of Sports Medicine suggests that sudden changes in footwear can potentially increase injury risk for some runners. By resoling your familiar, broken-in shoes, you maintain that perfect fit your body has adapted to.
Environmental & Cost Math
The numbers tell a compelling story – both for your wallet and our planet.
| Option | Cost | Environmental Impact | Lifespan Extension |
|---|---|---|---|
| New Shoes | $120-180 | ~14 kg CO₂ produced | N/A |
| DIY Resoling | $10-20 | Minimal | 100-300 miles |
| Professional Resoling | $85-95 | Minimal | 300-500+ miles |
A professional resoling service typically runs around $95, while a DIY approach with quality adhesives might cost just $10-20. Compare that to dropping $120-180 on new premium running shoes, and you can see why resoling makes financial sense.
From an environmental perspective, each pair of running shoes repaired instead of replaced saves approximately 30 pounds of CO₂ emissions. Since 1994, we’ve helped repair over 5 million pairs at NuShoe – that’s millions of pounds of carbon emissions prevented and countless shoes diverted from landfills.
Which Shoes Can (and Can’t) Be Resoled
Good candidates for resoling include shoes with one-piece tread layers (like Adidas Ultraboost or New Balance Fresh Foam), traditional running shoes with cemented construction, substantial trail running shoes, shoes with stitch-down construction, and pairs where only the outsole is worn while the midsole and upper remain in good shape.
Challenging or impossible to resole are shoes with fully integrated foam midsole/outsole combinations, aggressive rocker geometries requiring precise outsole thickness, super-lightweight racing shoes with minimal outsole material, shoes with carbon plates that demand specific flex patterns, and shoes with severe midsole compression or upper damage.
When shopping for your next pair, consider the tread construction if longevity matters to you. Shoes with a continuous, one-piece outsole tread are typically much easier to resole than those with multiple small tread patches that can detach over time.
How to Resole Running Shoes: Step-by-Step DIY Guide
There’s something deeply satisfying about breathing new life into your favorite running shoes with your own two hands. If you’re someone who enjoys weekend projects and saving money, resoling your own running shoes might be right up your alley. With just a few materials and a bit of patience, you can add hundreds of miles to your trusted companions.
Signs Your Shoes Need Resoling – how to resole running shoes 101
Before you dive into this project, let’s make sure your shoes are actually ready for a resole. Your running shoes are practically begging for new soles when you notice:
Your once-grippy treads have gone completely bald in spots, looking more like dress shoes than running shoes. Or perhaps you’ve worn through to the point of midsole exposure, where you can actually see the foam peeking through the rubber outsole (yikes!).
Many runners develop uneven wear patterns – maybe you’re harder on the outside edge of your heel or the ball of your foot. When you start seeing this dramatic difference in wear, it’s resole time.
If sections of your outsole are peeling away from the midsole like a banana skin, that’s another clear sign. And don’t forget the trusty “squish test” – press your thumb firmly into the midsole foam. If it bounces back quickly, your midsole still has life. If it stays compressed, you might need more than just a resole.
Materials & Tools for how to resole running shoes DIY
Getting the right supplies makes all the difference between a resole that lasts 300 miles and one that peels off during your first puddle jump. Here’s what you’ll need:
For adhesives, Shoe Goo ($8-10) is the weekend warrior’s best friend – flexible, durable, and forgiving for first-timers. If you want to level up, Boot-Fix Glue ($15) offers exceptional rubber-to-rubber bonding that can handle serious mileage. Professional cobblers often reach for Barge All-Purpose Cement ($10-15) for its industrial-strength hold.
For your new soles, Vibram rubber sheets ($15-25) are the gold standard, available in different thicknesses and durability levels to match your running style. My personal favorite eco-hack? Upcycled bike tire treads make surprisingly excellent running shoe soles – they’re free, sustainable, and nearly indestructible.
Your tool kit should include 120-grit sandpaper to rough up bonding surfaces, isopropyl alcohol for cleaning, disposable gloves to keep the mess contained, a sharp hobby knife or scissors for trimming, small clamps or heavy books for pressure, painter’s tape to protect edges, and a proper respirator mask (those adhesive fumes are no joke).
For more information about selecting the perfect adhesive for your specific shoes, check out our guide on the best running shoe repair glue.
Prep, Glue, Cure, Trim
Now for the main event – how to resole running shoes in five patient steps:
Start by thoroughly preparing both surfaces. Remove laces and insoles, then clean your shoes with mild soap and water. Let them dry completely (overnight is best), then use your sandpaper to rough up both the worn shoe sole and your new sole material. This creates tiny grooves for the adhesive to grip. Finish with an isopropyl alcohol wipe to remove any lingering dust or oils.
Next, carefully measure and cut your new sole material. Trace your shoe onto the material and cut slightly larger than the outline – you can always trim excess later, but you can’t add material back! Do a dry-fit to make sure everything looks right before committing to glue.
When applying adhesive, ventilation is non-negotiable. Open windows, work outdoors, or use a fan – and wear that respirator mask. Apply a thin, even layer to both surfaces and let it become tacky to the touch (usually 10-15 minutes, but follow your adhesive’s instructions). The number one reason DIY resoling fails is rushing this step – patience pays off in hundreds of extra miles.
Bonding is where the magic happens. Carefully align your new sole with the shoe, starting at the toe or heel and working your way across to prevent air bubbles. Apply firm, consistent pressure using clamps, heavy books, or even by walking carefully on the shoes. Now comes the hardest part – waiting 24-48 hours without disturbing your creation while the adhesive fully cures.
Finally, once the adhesive has completely set, trim any excess material with your sharp knife, sand the edges smooth, and reinsert the insoles and laces. Take a short test walk around the house before hitting the trails or pavement.
Professional Resoling vs DIY: When to Call the Pros
There’s something deeply satisfying about completing a DIY project, but let’s be honest – sometimes the professionals just do it better. While your homemade repairs can certainly extend your shoe’s life, our team at NuShoe brings decades of specialized expertise to the table.
When we professionally resole your running shoes, we use factory-quality Vibram rubber that’s precisely matched to your original soles in both thickness and density. Our specialized equipment and techniques aren’t available to the average home repairer, allowing us to restore up to 90% of your shoe’s original performance (compared to the 70-80% most DIY methods achieve).
You might want to skip the DIY route and call us when:
You’ve invested in premium shoes that cost $150 or more. These higher-end models deserve professional attention to maintain their specialized features and performance characteristics.
Your shoes have sentimental value – like the pair that carried you through your first marathon – or are discontinued models that you can’t replace at any price.
You need more than just outsole work. If your beloved runners need multiple repairs across different areas, our comprehensive approach ensures everything gets fixed properly.
Previous DIY attempts have failed. We’ve rescued many shoes after home repairs didn’t hold up, and we can usually correct these issues with our professional-grade materials.
You want maximum durability and performance. Our repairs typically last 3-5 times longer than DIY fixes, making them more economical in the long run.
When you send your shoes to our San Diego workshop, they’ll go through our meticulous how to resole running shoes professional process: complete removal of worn outsoles, thorough cleaning and preparation of the midsole, application of industrial-grade adhesives, and installation of new Vibram outsoles precisely matched to your specific shoe model. Before your refreshed runners head back to you, they undergo quality testing for flexibility and durability.
Service Locator & Pricing
Professional resoling typically takes 3-6 weeks including shipping time to and from our facility. That’s certainly longer than a weekend DIY project, but the extended lifespan makes the wait worthwhile for most runners.
Finding professional resoling services is surprisingly simple. At NuShoe, we’ve made it convenient with our nationwide FedEx shipping program. Just visit our website, complete the order form, and we’ll send you a prepaid shipping label. Pack up your tired runners, drop them off, and we’ll handle the rest.
Professional running shoe resoling costs about $85-95, which includes new Vibram outsoles, thorough midsole preparation, professional-grade adhesives, and return shipping. When you consider that this extends your shoe’s life by 300-500+ miles, it’s a smart investment compared to buying new.
If you prefer face-to-face service, Vibram maintains a network of certified cobblers trained in their specific techniques. These skilled professionals can be found using Vibram’s online shoe repair locator tool.
The science backs up our professional approach too. Scientific research on adhesive durability shows that the professional-grade adhesives we use maintain their bond strength in temperatures from -20°F to 150°F – meaning your repaired shoes are ready for any running condition Mother Nature throws at you.
Care & Maintenance for Your Resoled Kicks
Once you’ve invested time and money in resoling your running shoes, proper care will help maximize their extended lifespan. Think of your newly resoled shoes like a car that’s just had its tires replaced – they still need regular maintenance to perform their best.
The secret to making your resoled kicks last isn’t complicated, but it does require consistency. Rotating between at least two pairs of running shoes gives each pair’s midsole time to fully decompress and recover between workouts. This simple habit can add months to your shoes’ lifespan.
After those muddy trail runs, take a moment to rinse off dirt and debris rather than letting them dry on your shoes. Those tiny particles act like sandpaper against your new outsoles with every step. A quick rinse prevents this invisible wear and tear.
Where you store your shoes matters tremendously. Keep them in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, which can break down adhesives and degrade materials faster than you’d expect. That means the trunk of your car on a hot summer day is absolutely off-limits!
For serious runners who want to go the extra mile (pun intended), cedar shoe trees are worth the investment. They help maintain your shoes’ shape while naturally absorbing moisture and eliminating odors. Your running partners will thank you.
Many runners don’t realize that lacing technique affects shoe longevity. Try runner’s loop lacing to prevent heel slippage, which can cause premature wear on both the heel counter and your new outsoles. This small adjustment can make a big difference in how evenly your shoes wear down.
For those who track their miles digitally, set a Strava alert at 400 km as a reminder to inspect your shoes. Think of it as your shoes’ regular check-up – catching small issues before they become big problems.
Extending Life Beyond the Sole
While your new outsoles might be the star of the show, don’t neglect the supporting cast. Replace insoles regularly to maintain proper cushioning and support, especially since they typically break down faster than other shoe components.
The “stitch in time saves nine” philosophy definitely applies to running shoes. When you notice a small issue – perhaps a tiny separation between the upper and midsole – address it immediately with a dab of appropriate adhesive. What takes two minutes to fix today might be unrepairable next week.
Preventative care makes a huge difference in shoe longevity. Before problems develop, apply silicone seam sealer to high-stress areas like toe flexion points and upper seams. This invisible shield helps prevent tears before they start.
For more comprehensive advice on extending your shoes’ lifespan, check out our guide on running shoe repair.
Frequently Asked Questions about Resoling Running Shoes
How long will a resole last?
When runners ask me about the lifespan of their newly resoled shoes, I always smile and say, “It depends on how nice you are to them!” But in all seriousness, several factors come into play here.
DIY resole jobs typically add about 100-300 miles to your shoes’ life – perfect for extending their use while you save up for your next pair. Professional resoling, like what we do at NuShoe, usually gives you a more substantial 300-500+ additional miles because we use specialized materials and techniques that match your original outsoles.
Your running style matters too. Heavy pronators will wear through soles faster (even resoled ones), and trail runners tend to see quicker wear than those sticking to smooth pavement. It’s just the nature of rough terrain versus asphalt.
I’m always amazed when customers send us photos of their NuShoe-resoled runners crossing the 1,700-mile mark! We typically restore about 90% of a shoe’s original performance and durability with our professional resoling process.
Is resoling worth it for budget shoes?
“Should I resole my $60 running shoes when professional resoling costs $85-95?” This question comes up all the time, and honestly, the answer isn’t just about dollars and cents.
For budget shoes under $70, professional resoling might not make financial sense on paper. But before you toss those comfortable trainers, consider a few things:
If they fit like a glove and feel like clouds on your feet, even budget shoes deserve a second chance. The environmental win of keeping another pair out of the landfill applies regardless of the price tag. And learning how to resole running shoes yourself with upcycled materials like old bike tires can make the process incredibly economical.
I always tell runners: if the upper still looks good, the midsole hasn’t flattened out, and you genuinely enjoy wearing them – budget shoes are absolutely worth saving, especially with a DIY approach.
Can carbon-plated super-shoes be resoled?
Carbon-plated super-shoes – those springy, energetic racers that have revolutionized marathon times – present a fascinating challenge when it comes to resoling.
These technological marvels rely on extremely precise engineering. The exact thickness of the outsole directly affects how the carbon plate flexes and returns energy with each stride. Even a millimeter difference can significantly alter the shoe’s performance.
While technically possible to resole some carbon-plated models, it’s a bit like performing surgery on a sports car. The specialized rubbers used in these shoes are designed for specific weight, rebound, and durability characteristics that are difficult to match perfectly.
At NuShoe, we’ve successfully resoled certain carbon-plated shoes, but we approach each pair with careful consideration. We evaluate the specific model, wear patterns, and intended use before proceeding. Some runners have found a happy medium by using their resoled carbon-plated shoes for training while saving fresh pairs for race day.
Conclusion
There’s something deeply satisfying about giving your favorite running shoes a second chance at life. Learning how to resole running shoes isn’t just about saving money (though that’s a nice bonus)—it’s about making a conscious choice to step more lightly on our planet.
I’ve seen the difference this makes at NuShoe. Since 1994, our team of skilled craftspeople has lovingly restored over 5 million pairs of shoes that might otherwise have ended up in landfills. Each pair tells a story—the marathons completed, the trails conquered, the everyday miles that add up to something meaningful.
When you choose to resole instead of replace, you’re making a bigger impact than you might realize. Those 30 pounds of CO₂ emissions saved per pair might seem small, but multiply that across the running community, and suddenly we’re talking about meaningful change.
Beyond the environmental benefits, there’s something special about preserving the shoes that have molded perfectly to your feet. Those shoes that carried you through your first 10K or that have just the right amount of support in just the right places—they deserve a second wind.
Whether you decide to tackle resoling as a DIY project using our guidance or send your beloved runners to our workshop for professional treatment, you’re making a choice that benefits your wallet, your feet, and our shared planet. That’s what I call a win-win-win.
Ready to extend the journey of your favorite running companions? Check out our professional running shoe repair services or try your hand at the DIY methods we’ve shared. Either way, those revitalized shoes will be ready to hit the road with you for hundreds more memorable miles.
Your resoled shoes might not look brand-new—they’ll look better. They’ll look like they have stories to tell, trips to share, and many more miles left to give. Happy running!