A number of improvements were made from the INDEX.02 to the new INDEX.03, including the use of a lighter midsole material, 100% recycled polyester for the tongue, and a more efficient cutting process for the upper parts, meaning an improvement from 40% of wasted material down to just 26%. The core concept endures—a fully recyclable shoe crafted from two key components: TPU for the lower section below the distinctive red line, and polyester for the upper part. This thoughtful design facilitates easy disassembly at the end of the shoe’s life, promoting sustainability through a circular approach. The shoe is disassembled, with the TPU repurposed for ski boots and polyester reincarnated into fabrics.

To recycle the INDEX.03 free of charge, consumers can simply scan the QR code on the tongue of the shoe to register the pair, grab a shipping label online, and then drop off the shoes to be shipped back to Salomon.

AFFORDABLE & RECYCLABLE RUNNING COMFORT

To improve the running performance of the INDEX.03, the shoe uses a lighter, re-engineered foam, maintaining the same geometry but featuring a superior compound. Density reduction and enhanced foam flexibility result in a softer and lighter shoe, with the INDEX.O3 weighing only 249 grams, compared to 263g for the INDEX.02.

Continuing the circular story from INDEX.02, the construction of the upper has undergone a significant transformation in the INDEX.03.  The new upper uses un-dyed materials and is now made of five different parts to improve the cutting efficiency in the recycling process.

“Thanks to the new construction of the upper, we reduced the material waste from 40% of material being thrown away/recycled during the manufacturing process to 26%. We went from a cutting efficiency of 60% to 74%.” explains Olivier Mouzin, Sustainability Program Manager for Salomon Footwear. “We have therefore reduced our material consumption by about 14%. By changing the construction of the upper, we also change the number of seams, so we had to make sure the consumer wouldn’t feel them while walking or running, and that it would not impact the aesthetics or price of the shoe.”

The INDEX.03 also introduces a shift in pricing. The shoe is now available at a more accessible 150 euros. This strategic adjustment aims to make eco-friendly footwear more accessible for a broader audience.

“The first version of the INDEX has now been out for four years, and we have been able to collect feedback from consumers using the shoe for running as well as for everyday life,” explains Gatien Airiau, Product Line Manager for Salomon Road Running Footwear. “Changing the foam and updating the upper has allowed us to create a shoe that is more comfortable, uses less materials and available at a lower price than the previous version, while still being fully recyclable.”

Small details accentuate the recyclable narrative, with marked splitting areas, a prominent QR code on the tongue, and a highlighted red thread where the fabrics are cut during the recycling process. The clean and sleek design amplifies the aesthetic appeal, ensuring that sustainability doesn’t come at the expense of style.

HOW TO RECYCLE THE INDEX.03

If you have used your INDEX shoe to the point that you are ready to return it, simply scan the QR code on the tongue of the shoe to register your pair, print a shipping label, and drop if at your local post office or shipping center, free of charge. To minimize transportation impact, the shoes will be received at collection centers in Europe, North America and the Asia/Pacific regions. There, they will be washed and disassembled before each material is sent for recycling locally.