No matter what level of physical activity you engage in, our sneakers are one of the BEST defenses our feet have. The right shoes ensure proper gait, prevent fallen arches, and reduce the likelihood of injury.
If you are experiencing foot pain in sneakers, you may need custom orthotics, Learn more.
That said, the right tennis shoe is generally a more expensive tennis shoe. So, how can you make sure your shoes last long enough to justify their cost? Here are 5 tips to help you extend the life of your sneakers!
#1: Track Your Mileage
Generally speaking, shoes last around 300 – 350 miles before they should be replaced, but after 100 miles, wear and tear can be expected. It’s important to keep track of your shoes’ mileage so that you don’t throw them away too soon. There are a number of shoe mileage apps that you can download for free that allow you to document all of your shoes, and add mileage to them each time you run. Many of these will notify you when it’s time to go shopping for a new pair of kicks!
#2: Purchase Multiples
If you run every day, or engage in a number of different types of physical activities, it is important that you consider purchasing multiple shoes. Switching out your shoes on a daily basis can extend the life of a shoe, and it isn’t uncommon to find deals on shoes when you purchase two at a time.
#3: Be Careful How They Dry
For those who sweat a lot, run in the rain, or run in humid conditions, it is important that you dry your shoes correctly. Shoes that are too tight are terrible for your feet, and yet, many people don’t realize when their shoes have shrunk.
Remember, never dry your shoes in the dryer, by a heater, or in the sun if you don’t have to. Instead, pack your shoes with newspaper and replace every few hours until the moisture is gone. This should greatly help you extend the life of your sneakers.
#4: Untie
One of the most destructive things you can do to a shoe has nothing to do with use at all. Failing to untie your shoes results in stepping on your heel to pull out of them, and then squeezing your foot into the shoe by stretching the tongue and heel. Untie your shoe! Take the time to put them on and take them off properly.
#5: Single-Purpose Shoes
The final way to ensure your shoes last their full lifetime is to purchase shoes that serve one purpose. Your running shoes should be used only when you run. If you hike, purchase seperate shoes. If you walk a lot at work, purchase seperate shoes. Every new physical activity presents a new host of damages. By limiting your shoes’ purpose, you limit that damage.
Contact a Podiatrist in Birmingham
Have your feet been hurting during or after physical activity? You may need a foot examination to determine the best shoe for you. Contact The Foot Specialists in Birmingham today to get started!
