Does Your Loved One Need New Shoes?

The quality of your footwear is very important especially if you are constantly on your feet walking or running. The quality of your shoes can also impact the health of your lower extremities. By continuing to wear shoes that are clearly worn, you risk injury and placing stress on your feet and joints in the knees and ankles.

The quality of your footwear is very important especially if you are constantly on your feet walking or running.

The quality of your shoes can also impact the health of your lower extremities. By continuing to wear shoes that are clearly worn, you risk injury and placing stress on your feet and joints in the knees and ankles.

When do Your Shoes Need to be replaced?

As a general rule, a good quality pair of shoes can generally last for about 500 miles. Of course, factors like consistently walking on uneven terrain will wear the shoes out faster. Perform a visual inspection by laying the shoes on a flat surface and examining the heels. If the heel is distorted inward or outward, then this is an indication of material fatigue in the heel counter. Also inspect the midsole for any creasing. Finally, inspect the outsole for noticeable wear on the traction. You can also perform a bend test by holding the ends of the shoe with both hands and bending it. If the shoe bends anywhere other than at the ball of the foot, then it is worn.

If you are getting blisters, it is another telltale sign that it’s time for replacements! Footwear begin to stretch over time. This creates more space, which causes your foot to move around and create friction against the walls of the shoes.

Most shoes also come with removable insoles. Pull it out and examine it; if the cushion is flattened and compressed, then consider replacing it. You can replace the soles without having to replace the shoe if it is still in usable condition.

Shopping for the Right Pair of Shoes

When it comes to quality footwear, you need to pick a sturdy pair of shoes that is comfortable for long-term wear. Ill-fitting shoes can lead to bunions and plantar fasciitis, a condition that can cause heel spurs and arch pain. Some people may also be flat footed or have a high arch that may cause discomfort with regular shoes. If this is the case for you, then you may need special type of footwear designed to fit the contours of your feet. In some cases, you may have to buy your shoes from an orthotic shoe shop, which carries shoes for those with specific fitting needs.

Quality matters when it comes to your selection of footwear and they should be able to provide the right combination of comfort, stability and function.