Your walking shoes won’t last forever. Here’s some information to help you decide if it’s time to replace your walking shoes or other comfort shoes in Rochester Hills, MI.
Shoes have a walking limit
Most well-made athletic shoes have 350 to 500 miles of life in them, but the lifespan depends on the type of shoes. Since runners slam down on the pavement harder than walkers, running shoes tend to give out faster, while walking shoes can provide support and cushioning beyond the 500-mile mark. Your weight is another factor. The more body weight you have, the sooner you’ll need to replace your walking shoes. A good rule of thumb is to replace your athletic shoes every three to six months or, if you are tracking your distance, after 500 miles.
Shoes start aging before you wear them
All the pieces of your athletic shoes are glued together in a factory. Glue is glue, so it should come as no surprise that shoe glue begins drying out almost immediately. Meanwhile, the air pockets in the cushioning may start vanishing, and less cushioning means less comfort. Whether the shoes are stored in a warehouse or out for sale on a store shelf, it’s important to know that they are already aging. To be sure your shoes will have the longest life possible, buy a current model that has not been sitting in the store for long.
Signs you should replace your shoes
If you wear your shoes regularly, you get used to how they feel on your feet. Because of this, most people wait until their shoes are literally falling apart or look much worse for wear before replacing them. You’re not doing yourself any favors wearing worn-out shoes. Here are some signs you need replacement kicks:
- Worn sole: A big sign is a worn sole tread pattern. The tread may be gone or mostly gone. Some shoes are made to show a different color once the sole has worn away.
- Worn heel: The heel of a shoe may wear down more on one side than the other. You can typically feel the difference when walking, or you may actually be able to see it.
- Shoe breakdown: When your shoes’ time is up, the uppers break down around the ankle. You may also notice wrinkles on the side or bottom of the sole—this is from the shoe support and cushioning breaking down.
How to extend the life of your shoes
A good pair of walking shoes is not cheap. Here are some tips to help your shoes last longer:
- Use for exercise only: Designate your athletic walking shoes for exercise and have a separate pair for everyday wear. They’ll stay clean longer and wear out more slowly.
- Keep shoes clean: Don’t leave shoes to suffocate and retain moisture in your zipped gym bag. Let your shoes air out fully between uses.
- Wash and dry: On occasion, wash your shoes in cold, soapy water and let them air dry.
Don’t let your old shoes stop you in your tracks. Visit Haig Shoes for your next pair of comfort shoes in Rochester Hills, MI!