Eco-friendly running: sharp cardio, strong mind… and a green conscience?

The planet is full of sneakers

Running is freedom. It's free, it's good for your health, it sculpts your calves, and it makes you smile. Honestly, what could be simpler and more natural than a good little run? Well... surprise. Even our Sunday runs sometimes have a less-than-great impact on the environment . Between plastic gear, car journeys to get some elevation gain, and races where the aid station is as overflowing as the trash cans, it's starting to take its toll on Mother Nature .

But don't panic. You can keep the fun , the performance, and even the look... all while running greener. We promise, no need to swap your running shoes for hemp sandals. We're taking you on a special eco-friendly running session with some common sense in the laces.

What impact do your strides leave on the planet?

On paper, running is clean . No fuel, no battery to recharge, just a pair of sneakers and a little breath. But if you scratch a little under the sole, the impact is less neutral than it seems.

Between gear stuffed with synthetic materials, often manufactured in less-than-transparent conditions, gear that travels around the world before arriving at your feet, and a sometimes brief lifespan, running leaves its mark.

And we're not even talking about the big marathons, with their XXL logistics, endless refreshment stops, and garbage galore. So no, running isn't automatically green... but it can become so.

Muule's tips for responsible runs

Good news: you don't need to run barefoot to be eco-friendly. A few good habits , a few simple actions... and you'll already be on the right track .

Choosing your running gear without making the planet sweat

The first thing to do is to choose more sustainable equipment . Choose brands that use recycled materials and have a truly ethical approach .

Then, think sustainability . A pair of running shoes that lasts the distance is always better than one that ends up in the bin after 300 miles. Less waste, less expense, more fun. Some shoes are even made from recycled bottles , fishing nets , or revalued rubber . When it comes to clothing, focus on recycled polyester or Econyl fiber for technical items and natural fibers like Tencel or merino wool for base layers. All produced locally in Europe and manufactured under conditions that respect both people and the planet.

At Muule , we select trail-running shoes and technical clothing for women and men with a limited impact on the environment. Brands like Veja , La Sportiva and Scarpa are part of our selection, combining performance , durability and respect for the planet .

We'll show you all that a little further down. Spoiler: your calves will love it, and so will the planet.

Participate in races with the lowest carbon impact

If you're the type of person who collects race numbers like fridge magnets, we understand. There's nothing like a race to motivate you to lace up your running shoes. But before you rush headlong into the next half-marathon 500 kilometers from home, ask yourself a quick question: is the trip really worth a medal forgotten at the bottom of a drawer?

There are plenty of local , fun races accessible by train or carpooling . And if, as a bonus, they play the eco-responsible card with waste sorting, bulk supplies, recyclable bibs, it's a real bonus. At Muule , we're all for this kind of race: no blah blah, just respected trails and a planet that can breathe a little.

Fewer miles in the car, more meaning in your strides. And believe us: it doesn't take away from the pride of crossing the finish line—quite the opposite.

Eco-responsible marathons: yes, a thousand times yes.

Do truly green races exist?

Oh yes. More and more races are putting ecology at the heart of their organization, like Run For Planet . Some plant a tree for every bib sold, a simple gesture, but one that sends a strong message. Others ban disposable cups and invite runners to come with their own eco-cup , or to fill their flasks at the aid stations. And then there are those who offer finisher t-shirts only upon request, made from recycled materials , to avoid unnecessary production.

We are also seeing the emergence of races that have everything figured out: reusable signage , local refreshments , carbon footprints displayed in black and green, volunteers trained in sorting ... Nothing is left to chance, apart from the weather. In short, more and more races are proving that we can combine performance , time and green awareness . And honestly, it makes you want to run even more.

Choose Plogging: The Only Sport Where Your Squats Save the Planet

Plogging is a bit like running, the superhero version of trail running . The idea is simple: you run and pick up the trash you come across along the way. It strengthens your thighs, it works your glutes, and most importantly, it's great for the environment.

It's a practice born in Sweden (obviously), but which has fans all over the world. You can do it alone , with friends or even as a club outing . Find out about the collections organized soon. In addition to improving your cardio, you'll leave with a smile and the satisfaction of having cleaned up a piece of the planet.

The best of the best eco-friendly shoes available at Muule

At Muule , we run fast... but never after fake trends. There's no question of peddling flashy sneakers with no bottoms. We select brands that really pack a punch: high-performance , durable , and cleaner than average. Gear that's tested, approved, and respects your calves as much as the planet. Because running responsibly isn't an option, it's about being one step ahead.

Among our favorites is La Sportiva , the Italian benchmark for trail running . A brand that has long relied on robust materials , local know-how , and predominantly European manufacturing . It's solid , reliable , and designed to last .

When it comes to urban running, Veja combines style and commitment . With its bio-sourced or recycled materials and responsible production, the French brand proves that you can combine design , comfort , and conscience without compromise. It's clean, and not just in terms of colors.

Craft is making its mark on the running scene with lightweight , efficient shoes made from recycled materials . The Swedish brand is delivering solid results with sleek designs , built to last and built with a truly responsible approach . Perfect for hitting the tarmac without damaging the planet.

In the same vein, Dynafit is making its mark with lightweight , solid models designed to withstand tough terrain . Their approach is increasingly focused on eco-design , with products that last and have less impact.

And Merrell is the brand we love for its no-nonsense efficiency. Recycled materials integrated into the uppers, soles, and laces, sustainability assumed without exploding their carbon footprint . Simple, clean, effective.

In summary. Whether you run in the forest , in the mountains or on the asphalt , these brands share the same commitment: running shoes that respect your legs, and the Earth beneath your feet.

Running eco-friendly isn't a race against time, it's a change of habit.

Every little choice counts : the gear you wear, the races you choose, the way you consume and even what you leave behind on the trails . We're not asking you to be perfect, just to be a little more attentive. And if you also bought your gear at Muule , you're already on the right foot: each brand is put through the mill of our eco-responsible barometer . Come on, let's keep breathing, keep smiling and move in the right direction .

Article written by Sarah de Muule on August 6, 2025.