How Frequently Should People Managing Health Conditions Replace Supportive Footwear?

Footwear wears out faster than many people realize. So, when supportive footwear is critical in your foot care, you want to stay on top of replacing it when necessary. How frequently does it need to be replaced? Some people shared their recommendations for how frequently to change supportive footwear. Keep reading to find out what they had to say.
Dr. Kevin Huffman

Dr. Kevin Huffman

CEO and Founder of Ambari Nutrition.

300 to 500 miles of Wear

I recommend replacing footwear after 300 to 500 miles of wear. It depends on usage levels and variations in shoe qualities. If you are relatively active, you may need to replace your shoes every six months, but this could change based on how much you weigh, what type of stride you have, and the quality of your footwear.

Simple tell-tale signs of excessive wear, such as the sole wearing down unevenly, are clear indicators as to when you may need a new pair. Staying on top of these issues will allow you to replace them just before the onset of discomfort or injury from wearing down shoes. Wearing supportive shoes is key; they are just as important to musculoskeletal health as regular exercise, and they can help stave off an entire host of issues before they happen.

8 to 12 Months

People with foot health conditions should replace their supportive footwear regularly to maintain optimal foot health. Podiatrists generally suggest replacing shoes every 8 to 12 months or when they start showing signs of wear and tear. However, the frequency of replacement may vary depending on the individual’s foot condition, activity level, and the type of footwear used.

Melissa Terry

Melissa Terry

CFA at VEM Tooling.
Kathryn Miller

Kathryn Miller

Director of In Stride Clinic.

6 to 12 Months

Maintaining foot health conditions requires regular replacement of supportive footwear. Generally, evaluate supportive footwear every six to twelve months and possibly change it. The degree of an individual’s daily activity, the severity of their foot condition, and the caliber of their footwear are few examples of the variables that may affect the precise timing.

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