How Often Should You Replace Your Shoes?
Whether they’re your favourite pair of everyday trainers, walking shoes or work boots, all footwear has a limited lifespan. Lots of people wait until their shoes are worn out before replacing them, but buying a new pair before they’ve completely fallen apart could make all the difference to your comfort levels, foot health and support.
So how long should you keep your shoes? How do you know when it’s time for a replacement? It all depends on how frequently you wear them, what they’re used for and where you walk.
How long should shoes last?
There’s no one size fits all, but most shoes will typically last between 8 to 12 months with frequent wear. If you wear the same pair every day, they’ll wear out faster than if you have a selection of shoes which you rotate throughout the week.
Some styles of shoe will also last longer than others:
- Everyday trainers - Approximately 6 to 12 months with frequent wear
- Walking shoes - Around 500 to 800 miles worth of walking
- Leather shoes - Many leather shoes will last you for years
- Children’s shoes - Often need replacing more regularly as their feet grow
How well shoes are looked after, and your individual walking habits will also play a part in how long your shoes stay comfortable.
6 Signs Your Shoes Need Replacing
1. The Soles Are Worn Down
If you look at your soles and they’re visibly worn down with little tread or uneven gaps, they may not grip as well as they used to. Smooth soles are particularly slippery when it’s wet outside, so take extra care if your tread has gone.
2. They’re Not Comfortable Anymore
If your shoes used to feel great but now leave your feet aching after a short walk, the cushioning may have compressed over time. Even if they still look good on the outside, the internal support can gradually wear away.
3. Your Feet Feel Tired
If your shoes start to absorb less impact, other parts of your body have to compensate for it. Wearing shoes until they’ve lost their bounce can cause your feet, ankles and legs to feel tired by the end of the day. If you’ve noticed this happening to you lately, it might be time for a new pair.
4. They’ve Changed Shape
Ideally, shoes shouldn’t change shape much at all. Whilst they should be moulded to the shape of your feet, they shouldn’t become stretched or feel loose. If your shoes have lost their shape, they may no longer be supporting your feet like they should.
5. You Can See Damage
Minor scuffs and scrapes are normal, but if you start to see cracks in the material or holes in your shoes, they’re probably past their best. The soles may also become loose if they’re worn enough. Continuously wearing damaged shoes can cause problems with your foot posture and your comfort levels.
6. Your Feet Have Changed
A lot of things can cause your feet shape or size to change. If your shoes suddenly don’t feel as comfy as they used to, it might be time for a new pair.
Why replacing your shoes is important
You may not realise it, but your shoes play a huge role in your comfort when you’re on the go. Shoes help to support your feet’s natural alignment and can provide cushioning from hard surfaces.
When shoes wear out, they can cause:
- Foot pain and discomfort
- Blisters and rubbing
- Loss of stability when walking
- Pressure on joints
- General fatigue from standing/walking
Luckily, you can avoid pain and discomfort by replacing your shoes before they wear out.
Will my shoes last longer if I look after them?
Yes. Taking care of your shoes will mean they last longer than if you leave them scuffed and worn. Here are our top tips to help you get more wear out of your shoes:
- Rotate your shoes instead of wearing the same pair everyday
- Air your shoes out when you’re finished wearing them
- Clean your shoes and follow any care instructions
- Store your shoes in a cool, dry area
- Replace insoles if necessary
How to get the perfect fit when replacing your shoes
When you replace your shoes, make sure you buy the right size and width that works for you. A shoe that’s too big may cause your feet to slide forward when you walk and one that’s too small will be uncomfortable.
At SoleLution, we’re experts when it comes to helping you find the perfect fit. Whether you’re buying adult shoes or kids shoes, our friendly team are on hand to help you find comfortable footwear that will last you years.
Find comfortable footwear at SoleLution
Feel like you need a new pair of shoes? Whether your old ones are uncomfortable or you’re simply ready for an upgrade, SoleLution can help.
Browse comfortable footwear from brands you love online or pay us a visit in store, with expert fitting.