Saying Goodbye To Old Shoes
For some, shopping for footwear can be time consuming and emotional. To find shoes that fit well, look stylish, and cost the right amount can be challenging and frustrating. That’s why, when the perfect pair are found, it’s hard for us to part with our basketball shoes, walking or running shoes, and “going-out” shoes, even when they are worn down. For proper foot care and injury prevention, it’s best to let go of your old shoes before they develop holes and have inner soles that are worn way down. Look for the following signs:
Shoe Material
What to look for: Holes, Rips, Structure Loss (from bending in the middle or by wearing shoes with the back folded under)
How it affects your feet: Shoes with compromised structure will lose the supportive features that keep your feet snug inside the shoe. Your feet may have to work harder to stabilize and grip while inside the shoe (leading to tendonitis and blisters), and your ankles may be more prone to rolling or twisting (like with sprained ankles).
Inner Sole and Heel Cup
What to look for: Worn down inner soles, lack of cushioning, heel cup very deep and worn down.
How it affects your feet: Worn down inner soles will immediately show a lack of impact absorption, so your feet, and the rest of your leg may suffer from impact-related injuries. If the heel cup is worn down, not only will the feet have strained plantar fascia (tissues), they will also lose support needed to keep the heel from sliding around.
Midsole and Arch
What to look for: The shoe should not be able to fold in half in the middle. There should also be cushioning in the midsole and arch area to support your foot arch, especially if you have flat feet.
How it affects your feet: Without proper midsole/arch support, people with flat feet are more likely to experience pain when walking or running long distances. People you pronate will not have the support to correct gait problems.
Outer Sole and Tread
What to look for: Worn down rubber outer soles.
How it affects your feet: This can reduce traction, especially in slippery floors. It can also make in-toeing or out-toeing worse as the sole wears down in the respective directions.
If you find that your shoes are wearing down and not giving you proper support, it’s probably time to get rid of them to prevent injury – even if you love them. If you need custom orthotics to further support your feet, we can help! Contact us at PerfectFeetCare Podiatry Centers. Our podiatrists will assess your feet and find solutions for you. Make an appointment with us at our Miami (305-225-4277) or Hialeah (305-246-7437) offices.
