Yes, you can absolutely recycle shoes. Most footwear can be broken down and repurposed, with materials like rubber, fabric, and leather being reused in various ways. Specialized recycling programs and centers exist to take old shoes and transform them into playground materials, new clothing items, and even construction materials.

Leather scraps can be used for craft projects or by recycling companies to create new products. However, it’s not easy to recycle leather shoes and worn-out leather bags and accessories. So, it’s better to give them to a local charity or donate them online.