How often should older adults replace their walking shoes?

Question

My mother walks 30 minutes most days for her health. She has had the same walking shoes for a couple of years and they still look fine. How often should seniors replace walking shoes, and what signs of wear matter most?

admin · Accepted Answer

Most podiatrists and orthopedic specialists recommend replacing walking shoes every six to twelve months, or sooner if the wearer accumulates 300 to 500 miles of use.Check the midsole compression: Bend the shoe in half. If the heel or arch flattens completely without springing back, the cushioning is degraded and no longer absorbs impact for your joints.Inspect the tread depth: Look at the outsole, especially in the heel and midfoot. If the rubber tread pattern is worn smooth or shallow, you lose traction, which significantly increases the risk of falls on smooth indoor surfaces or wet pavement.Examine the upper material: Widespread creasing, splitting, or holes in the mesh or leather can indicate that the shoe is no longer providing adequate support. This leads to blisters and foot irritation.Be aware of internal damage: Sometimes, shoes look good on the outside but have collapsed cushioning on the inside. If you feel sharp pressure points or new aches in the feet, knees, or hips, the shoe may have lost its structural integrity even if it looks fine.Rotate your footwear: Do not wear the same pair of walking shoes two days in a row. Allowing the foam to fully rebound overnight extends the life of the shoe by 20% to 30% and keeps it in better condition for longer.

How often should older adults replace their walking shoes?

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