If you are an avid runner, then you know it is important to treat your feet with the ultimate support. This means replacing your running shoes at the appropriate time. Sneakers are strong, but they won't last forever. Continue reading to know how often you should replace your running shoes.
Extend The Life Of Your Running Shoes
There are some ways to keep your running shoes a little longer if you do not want to buy a new pair as frequently. If you take proper care of your sneakers, you can get a few extra miles out of them before sending them to the trash. By owning at least 2 pairs of shoes, you can rotate between each of them. This allows you to distribute the weight and stress of your running on each pair. With one pair, you can easily wear them out because of all your constant running. The soles will wear and tear much more quickly. You should also dry them out after each run. Your shoes may not seem wet, but they are. While you run, your feet sweat and this creates bacteria inside the shoe which is not good for you. By drying the shoes, you can also keep them in good shape for a longer time. When drying out your sneakers, remove the insoles of the shoe and allow them to dry separately. Loosen the laces and crinkle some newspapers to place inside the shoe. It is best to keep them near a fan or space heater. Along with drying them out, you should also clean the outside your sneakers after each run. It is likely that you will encounter some mud or dirt during your exercise. Any form of dirt can wear away the top fabric of the shoe and cause it to erode prematurely. There are many ways to keep your sneakers clean. You can use a warm cloth and some liquid laundry detergent to gently wipe away the dirt marks. You can also use proper sneaker cleaners. These can be found at any sports or sneaker store. There are also shoes made specifically for the places in which you run. Trail running versus road running require different types of sneakers. Trail running shoes will not hold up long on the road and the same for the road shoes. Next time you decide to invest in new shoes, make sure you are buying the correct ones for the location that you run in!
Is It Time For New Shoes?
You don't want to buy new shoes too early, but you also don't want to wait too long. Sometimes they may look worn out, but are still in good shape. Other times they may look fine, but they are actually long overdue for the trash. You know that feeling of putting on a new pair of shoes and it has the arch and it's super comfy? Well, indication number 1 for needing new shoes is when your shoes no longer have the arc feeling. They will feel flat when you put them on and not supported. The cushion on the bottom of the shoe is what protects your joints and the impact put on them while running. When this part is worn out, your feet and knees are going to feel sore and painful. If the pain persists, that is an indication that your shoes may have reached the end of their life. As the shoe wears out, the foam at the bottom of the shoes loses its ability to bounce back and cushion your feet. Another part of the shoe to examine that will indicate whether or not to throw them out are the soles. Sneakers have tread on the bottom of them just like tires to keep the traction while you run and cushion your landings. Concrete can tear the soles up much faster. If your soles have zero tread left or balding patches, they will no longer support you during your runs. Your soles can also become uneven. If this is the case for you, you may not only need a new pair, but you may need to be properly fitted for your next pair. Running sneakers can be custom made for each runner to better support their habits as well.
How Long Should My Shoes Last?
Running shoes can usually be compared to tires. The same way you need to rotate your tires, you should rotate your shoes. It is important to keep track of how many miles you run, just like when you drive your car. High quality running shoes can last between 300-500 miles. Then they should be replaced with a new pair. If you run 20 miles a week, this is usually about 6 months. If you are a light runner, you may be able to last a little longer before purchasing a new pair. This is also not the same for your race day shoes. Your race day shoes should be a totally separate pair. They should be strictly used for that and not practicing or everyday runs. Running shoes are your most important gear, so take care of them!
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-Franki
