At Plaeto, we’ve always believed that innovation doesn’t just come from experienced professionals — it can come from curious young minds too. That’s exactly why we started the Trailblazers Internship Program — an 8-week learning experience for school students from Grades 9 to 12 who want a behind-the-scenes look at how a sneaker brand really works.
They ask questions, solve problems, and think like future changemakers. One of the most eye-opening projects this season? A thoughtful investigation into a topic that’s gaining momentum: What really happens at the end of a shoe’s life?
This season, our young Trailblazers took on a topic that’s becoming more important than ever the lifecycle of footwear. They set out to understand not just how people use their shoes, but what they expect from them, and what they do with them when they’re no longer needed
The interns spoke to students, parents, athletes, and working professionals. They designed surveys, crunched numbers, and asked honest questions:
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How long do you expect your shoes to last?
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What do you do when they wear out — toss, donate, repurpose?
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Do you think about sustainability when you buy a pair?
What They Learned
1. Durability Matters
Most people expect their shoes to last anywhere from 8 months to 2 years — longer if it’s a trusted pair for running, school, or work. Men’s shoes especially see heavier wear in daily commutes, sports, and travel.
2. Disposal Habits Are Mixed
The majority admitted to simply throwing away old shoes. A smaller, but growing group prefers donating, especially when the shoes are still in usable condition. Repurposing old pairs for home use or chores was also a common trend.
3. Awareness is Growing, But Slowly
While people are increasingly aware of sustainability, many don’t know how to dispose of shoes responsibly. The interns found that there’s a gap in awareness — and an opportunity to educate.
Why It Matters
For brands, this research is a window into how we can do better. Should we design shoes to last longer? Should we offer recycling or trade-in programs? Should we create campaigns that teach people how to dispose of shoes more sustainably?
For NGOs and educators, this data could inspire consumer awareness campaigns that shift mindsets and habits.
At Plaeto, we’re taking these insights seriously — using them to rethink how we design, market, and talk about durability in every pair we create, from women shoes built for everyday life to school and athletic wear.
It’s amazing what young minds can uncover when they’re given the space to ask big questions. The Trailblazers reminded us: a shoe’s story doesn’t end at the last step — and neither should our responsibility.
Explore how we’re building smarter, longer-lasting footwear at plaeto.in.
This season, one group asked a deceptively simple but powerful question:
Do people actually care about shoe packaging — and what happens to it after the unboxing?
