Sustainability and durability of shoes: challenges and potential

The demand for sustainable products is constantly increasing—even in the footwear industry. But what about the durability, reparability, and recyclability of shoes? These issues play a central role in the Ecodesign for Sustainable Products Regulation (ESPR) and the EU Green Deal strategy.

In our article on the The EU Green Deal and the associated obligations, you can find out what measures the EU Green Deal encompasses and what obligations this entails for companies.

Sustainability and durability in the footwear industry

Many sustainability goals, such as reparability and recycling, are still difficult to implement in the footwear industry. Although some industries already have well-founded studies and information on the subject of service life and recycling options, the results cannot be transferred 1:1—the differences in design, use, and material diversity of shoes are too great.

While industries such as the automotive sector already provide extensive data on recycling potential, service life, or the release of microplastics, research on the durability of shoes is still in its early stages. Although established material tests exist (e.g., abrasion resistance of outsoles or lining materials), they cannot easily be transferred to actual use conditions. Factors such as design, construction, and material combinations, as well as the individual usage by the wearer, significantly influence the product’s service life.

Challenges in repair and recycling

Another aspect is that repair options are often limited. While insoles can be replaced relatively easily, repairs to damaged heel linings or sole bonds are often too complex or too expensive. As a result, the life of a shoe often ends with the first major defect. On a positive note, in certain segments such as hiking or trekking shoes, there are already repair services available that help extend the product’s lifespan.

In the long term, the focus must be placed more on quality and durability in order to counteract the issue of fast fashion and to promote sustainability in the footwear industry.

The PFI supports sustainable product development

The PFI quality mark for shoes as well as the PFI Eco Label help companies meet relevant requirements and make their products future-proof. In addition, our physical testing laboratory offers a wide range of practical material tests – e.g., for wear, strength, endurance or aging. These tests provide valuable insights to specifically improve the durability and quality of your footwear.