FootFashion.Com - Replace Running Shoe

When Should I Replace My Running Shoes?

We all spend time walking whether it be on a treadmill, a mall, or walking our neighborhood. Having shoes that fit and aren't worn out is so important whether you are trying to lose weight or not. Over time your shoes can lose their stability and also lose their ability to absorpt shock.

Running Shoe Replacement Tips

Track your mileage. After 350-550 miles it's time for a new pair. For runners who log 25 miles per week replace your shoes every three to four months.
You can check for signs of wear on the sole by placing your old shoes on a table and looking at them from behind. If the soles are worn and leaning to one side, the midsole cushioning is probably worn as well.

Spotting Midsole Wear

A shoe's midsole cushioning may be worn out long before the tread shows signs of wear. Because the bottom and tread of the shoe may look fine, identifying when the cushioning is shot isn't easy to do. Here are some tips for identifying midsole wear:
First, pay attention to how you feel. As your shoes begin to give out, you may begin to get some aches or pains in your bones and joints. You may also notice slight muscle fatigue, new tightness, or possible shin splints.
Look for creasing of the midsole material in areas of high load (under the heel or the ball of the foot). A worn out midsole will have wrinkles and creases there.
Try to twist the shoe. A worn out midsole will allow the shoe to twist more easily than a new shoe.
Try on a new pair of the model that you are currently wearing. Compare this to your current shoes. If the cushioning in your shoes feels dead in comparison, it probably is.

Consider Rotating Shoes

If you run frequently it's a good idea to have more than one pair of shoes. Think about buying two pair at a time (or buying a second pair about midway through the life of your first). Add the new pair in to your shoe rotation when your "old" shoes have about 200 miles on them. If you use two pairs of shoes you should still track mileage per shoe, and replace each after it has 350-550 miles on it.

Running in old or worn-out shoes is one of the most common causes of running injuries. Your running shoes lose shock absorption, cushioning and stability over time. Continuing to run in worn-out shoes increases the stress and impact on your legs and joints, which can lead to overuse injuries. The easiest thing you can do to prevent those types of injuries is replace your shoes when they're worn-out.

So how do you know when shoes need to be retired? Don't use the treads of your shoes to determine whether you should replace your shoes. The midsole, which provides the cushioning and stability, usually breaks down before the bottom shows major signs of wear. If you've been feeling muscle fatigue, shin splints, or some pain in your joints -- especially your knees -- you may be wearing shoes that no longer have adequate cushioning.

A good rule of thumb is to replace your running shoes every 350 to 550 miles, depending on your running style, body weight, and the surface on which you run. Smaller runners can get new running shoes at the upper end of the recommendation, while heavier runners should consider replacement shoes closer to the 350 mile mark. If you run on rough roads, you'll need to replace your shoes sooner than if you primarily run on a treadmill.

Mark your calendar when you buy a new pair of running shoes so you remember when to replace them. If you use a training log, be sure to record when you bought new shoes -- it will help you track how many miles you've run in them. Writing the purchase date on the inside of each shoe's tongue is another good way to help remember when you first started running in them.

About halfway through the life of your shoes, you might want to buy another pair to rotate into your runs. Your shoes will last longer when you allow them to decompress and dry out between workouts. Also, having a fresh pair of shoes as a reference will help you notice when your old ones are ready to be replaced. Wearing proper foot wear is important. People certainlly say....gosh I've finally got these shoes broke in. Actually, most of them are finally worn out.

It was always found that men's shoes wore much better and longer than women's shoes.