Most of us have a go-to pair of shoes that we wear every day. It could be a comfortable pair of sneakers or some flat pumps. In fact, there are some folks that wear the same pair of shoes day in and day out and only ever wear something different if they are going to a fancy restaurant or for a trip to the beach. But should you wear the same shoes every day, and how do you know when it is time to get a new pair?
When Is it Time to Buy New Shoes?
When it comes to everyday shoes, the experts recommend that these be changed every eight to twelve months, or earlier if they are worn daily. There are some signs to look out for that will give you a clue that you need new shoes.
They Are Looking Old and Worn
How quickly your shoes start to look old and worn will depend on how often you wear them and what you do when you wear them. For example, a pair of pumps that you wear to the office every day while you sit at your desk might not wear out as quickly as a pair of trainers that you wear daily during your 12-hour nurse shift. It is a good idea to keep an eye on both the uppers and the soles of the shoes to see if they need to be replaced. If your shoes are looking very worn on the side of the heels, then they are probably not providing the support you need and so it may be time to get a new pair. Similarly, if the uppers are looking frayed or if there are any holes, however small, getting a new pair is advisable.
They Smell Awful
Some people are more prone to smelly feet than others are. You can prevent smelly shoes by spraying them with a shoe deodorant, but you should do this before they start to smell. The makers of ShoeFresh shoe deodorant say that spraying your shoes when you first buy them will help to prevent bacteria buildup and could even keep odors at bay for up to three months. If you have not sprayed your shoes however, and you can’t seem to get rid of the smell from your shoes, it may be time for a new pair.
They are Uncomfortable
With wear and tear, shoes can lose their support and become uncomfortable. The more they are worn, the thinner the soles will be. If you can feel stones through your shoes when you walk, it is definitely time to shop for a new pair. You can use the tread on the sole of your shoes as an indication of when they might need to be replaced. You may also be getting aches and pains in your legs or back and cannot figure out why. It could be that the lack of support from your beat-up shoes is that which is causing the problem.
Conclusion
Shoes are not designed to last a lifetime and should be replaced when they become worn. Although a pair of shoes can last for years if they are only worn every so often, your everyday shoes will not last this long. The more that you wear them and the more active you are will determine how quickly they need to be replaced.
Look for signs such as a loss of tread on the soles, unexplained aches and pains, or holes in the uppers as an indication that you may need to invest in a new pair.
