Shoe Lifespan: How Often Should You Replace Them?

By Guest Blogger Sarah J.

Shoe Lifespan: How Often Should You Replace Them?

 

Our shoes are some of the most useful and desired possessions we own.  A good pair of running or tennis shoes is a must for every person, especially those who exercise or participate in any activity that has us on our feet for some time. When we find shoes that offer us the right support, it may be hard to say goodbye to them, but unfortunately, every pair of good shoes has a lifespan.

 

Why Replace?

 

Wearing shoes beyond their life limit can actually hurt your feet.  The lack of support is caused by the compressing of the cushioning and the shrinking of the sole from the many thousands of steps you may have taken. Shin splints and plantar fasciitis are a few of the issues that can be caused by shoes that no longer offer what you need.

 

Signs It’s Time

 

There are some obvious signs to look for if you are concerned your shoes are too worn to be used. The soles become thinner and don’t offer as much support as they once did.  The tread may be little or bare which can cause slipping hazards, and the interior of the shoe may show signs of wear, especially if you walk using one side of your foot more than the other.

 

If you look at your shoes and see wrinkles along the bottom or the sides of the sole, then it is time to replace them.  This means the support cushions have been broken down. Also, if the top of the shoe around the ankle has any wrinkles, dents, or appear to be worn, it may be time to look for a new pair as well.

 

Timeline for Shoes

 

Shoes do have a lifespan. Runners and athletes go through shoes much more quickly than the average person.  If your shoes display any of the signs of the damage mentioned above or if you run approximately four days per week, then you should consider replacing your shoes every six months.  It is also a good idea to invest in more than one pair so you can alternate them.

 

Rotating between pairs will help extend their lifespan and your wallet’s contents as well. Consider having two or more pairs ready to go.  Old shoes can also be recycled or given away if there is any life left in them. Old shoes can be used around the house as well, especially for outdoor work such as yard work.

 

Take Care of Your Shoes

 

Caring for your shoes can extend their life a bit. It is important that your shoes dry between use. Otherwise, you may get Athletes foot or a fungus. If you decide to wash them using a washing machine, let them air dry instead of using the dryer. The heat from a dryer and the constant motion can cause extra wear and a faster breakdown of the shoes.

 

If your insoles become flat or unsupportive, try using sole inserts which have different support points that can suit your needs. Keep in mind that if the exterior is too broken down, then the inserts won’t be useful at all.

 

Our beloved shoes are selected because of their comfort, size, and appearance. There are shoes for everyone, including workout gurus, athletes, avid walkers, etc. They do have a lifespan, but with some decent care and an extra pair or two, you can extend the life of your shoes.  Watch out for signs such as wrinkling or wearing of the sole and tread.  These are red flags that it may be time for a more comfortable and supportive replacement.

 Tia, and TipsfromTia.com  is trying to keep you looking good and
feeling good, from the inside out. If you’ve got a problem or a tip email me! Be sure to Like and share on Facebook or Follow on Twitter or Instagram.

 

Bio: Sarah writes for https://kickschoice.com. She wants to spread awareness about foot and leg health so that people can take better care of the limbs that support their whole body.