How Often Should You Replace Your Running Shoes?
If you're a seasoned runner, then you should know the importance of a good pair of running shoes. What many runners don't realize is how easily and how fast their running shoes can wear out.
Consider a set of tires on a fast car. Every hundred or so miles they need to be rotated and when the treads begin to wear out they need to be replaced.
A good pair of running shoes is just as important to a seasoned runner as a set of tires are to a car and are a basic necessity for smooth ride, or run in this case.
Many runners complain of the hassle and cost of replacing their shoes. However, the long term effects of working out in a pair of bad running shoes is worth the hassle and cost. The long-term effects of running in bad shoes can be chronic foot, knee, and hip injury that may never go away. Changing out your running shoes frequently is worth the price of never being able to run due to chronic and avoidable injuries.
So, how often should you replace your shoes? I could throw out a number like every, 300, 500 or 700 miles. But there are so many factors involved.
The best way to know when to change out your running shoes is to look them over periodically, at least once a week. Check the bottom of the shoes for cracking and peeling. Check the toes for tears. Check the insoles for any wear and tear. If you begin to see these signs, it's time to buy a new pair of shoes.
There are factors that can speed up the deterioration process of your running shoes. Heavy runners will wear out their shoes before petite runners. Trail runners who run through creeks (or anyone running in the rain/water) will wear out their shoes sooner.
There are also some factors that can slow down the deterioration process. For example, running treadmills reduces the amount of damage your shoes take per mile. So, a treadmill runner may not even need to start checking their shoes until they have run 400 or 450 miles in them.
Keep in mind that some shoes are built to last. The old saying 'You get what you pay for' really applies here. Make sure you do your homework and research different different brands and models of running shoes, to determine which shoe is best for you.
