When you take your new ASICS running shoes out of the box all pristine and clean, they are also at their most protective and supportive. But like any product, they wear down over time. UK-based Podiatrist and ASICS PRO Team member Clifton Bradeley explains when and why you should change them.
'Like any product used regularly, they will wear out eventually. How quickly this happens is determined by your mileage, body weight and foot type.'
- Running on the road all of the time will wear out your shoes quicker than running off-road
- Running in excessively worn running shoes may increase your risk of repetitive injuries in the feet, legs and pelvis
- A heavy overpronator who runs daily will wear their shoes out faster than say a lighter, neutral runner who runs every other day
"I would recommend you change your running shoes between 720 to 880kms."
Apart from keeping a mileage log, there are a few tell-tale signs to help you decide when to buy your next shoes:
- The outer sole has worn through to the white midsole
- The midsole feels too soft and collapses easily under pressure. You may see longitudinal creases in the midsole
- The heel counter becomes mobile and less supportive
- Your toes wear through the toe-box, and the shoe upper tears
- One shoe sole becomes asymmetrically worn compared with the other
- One or both shoes no longer stand up straight when placed on a flat surface
If you identify one or more of these factors visit a specialist running store and take your old running shoe to have an expert opinion and new shoes fitted.
