How Sundial Gave 3+ Tons of Shoes a Second Light - Sundial

How Sundial Gave 3+ Tons of Shoes a Second Light

The story behind Sundial Second Light

Every year, retailers quietly toss out millions of returned, overstocked, or slightly imperfect shoes. Not because they’re unusable — but because it’s easier and cheaper than managing the returns process.

Some pairs have scuffed boxes. Others were tried on once and sent back. Some simply didn’t sell fast enough. The result? Perfectly wearable shoes headed straight for the landfill.

The Truth About Retail Waste

Big-box stores and brands work on aggressive inventory schedules. Once new models drop, old inventory gets pulled quickly — especially:

     
  • Returns that don’t qualify as “brand new”
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  • Overstock or excess inventory
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  • Display models and shelf pulls
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  • Minor cosmetic defects or damaged packaging

Much of it is easier to destroy than resell. But we saw a better way.

Sundial Second Light 🌞

At Sundial, we don’t believe in waste. So we started Sundial Second Light — our outlet for high-quality returned and overstock shoes that deserve a second chance.

We reached out directly to retailers and brands who were planning to dump these shoes. Some were thrilled to clear space. Others were shocked anyone cared. We took them all.

In our first year, we rescued over 3 metric tons of shoes from landfills.

What You’re Getting

     
  • Gently used or never-worn shoes
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  • Authentic returns and retail shelf models
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  • Huge discounts on trusted brands
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  • A lighter footprint on the planet

Why Boxes Might Look Rough (And That’s Okay)

Some boxes are banged up. Some aren’t original. We reuse what we can to keep waste low. But what matters is what’s inside — authentic, comfortable, verified shoes for less.

The Bigger Picture

To us, Second Light is more than a sale section — it’s part of a bigger mission. We believe in second chances, for people, products, and the planet.

So when you shop Second Light, you’re doing more than saving money — you’re saving shoes from the trash and walking toward a more sustainable future.

☀️ Ready to Give Shoes a Second Light?

Shop the Sundial Outlet →
Better for your feet. Better for the planet.

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