Regardless if you’re training for your next race, or looking to stay comfortable and active, Queen City Running can help you determine when it’s time to purchase your next pair of shoes.
There are multiple indicators that can provide tell-tale signs that it’s time to retire your current pair. A few being pain and discomfort, noticeable wear and tear on the shoes, and the amount of use the shoes have had.
Let’s start by reviewing how much you have used the pair of shoes. If you are a runner or walker, ask yourself the following questions. Are you primarily using the shoes on treadmills, roads/ sidewalks, or trails? How many miles have you logged in these shoes? How often are you wearing these shoes per week or day?
All of these factors can have a big impact on how long your shoes will last. Typically, a quality pair of running shoes will last you between 300-500 miles, but elements like those listed above can definitely extend or shorten the lifespan of your shoes. For example, if you’re a runner who is typically moving on rougher terrain and going longer distances, your shoes most likely will not last as long.
Next, let’s talk about wear and tear. Noticeable damage on shoes can sometimes be the most obvious indicator that it’s time for your next pair. Things to keep in mind are the shoes’ soles, treads, and the fabric around the toes. Plain and simple, if you are starting to see deterioration to the shoe such as severe wear and the appearance of holes, it’s time for a new pair of shoes.
In the photos below, you'll see how a new running shoe will be able to resist being twisted. If your current pair of shoes resembles the black running shoe, it definitely is time for a replacement. With this level of wear, the shoe will not be able to provide you with the necessary support and cushion.
We know our “running” shoes will become broken down overtime, but the reason we take wear and tear so seriously is because wearing an overused shoe can actually contribute to the final indicator, pain. Unfortunately, some of us know the feeling well when we have waited too long to upgrade our shoes. Sometimes this pain manifests in the form of stress in the shins and joints such as the knees and hips.
Here at QCR, we want to keep you moving comfortably and doing what you love. So if you’re thinking it might be time to purchase your next pair of running shoes, come into one of our two locations and allow us to help you find your next pair of shoes.
