Comfy shoes are a reason to jump for joy, but should you wear your trusted pair day-in and day-out?
A very popular question we get asked at Schuler Shoes is whether or not it’s ok to wear the same shoes every day. Dan Husom and Morynn Marx, father/daughter and Board Certified Pedorthists (CPeds) at our Maple Grove and St. Cloud stores, weigh in.
The Importance of Footwear Rotation
Dan Husom and Morynn Marx, father and daughter, are CPeds at our Maple Grove and St. Cloud stores.
When it comes to how often you should wear your favorite pair of footwear, Dan recommends trying to rotate every other day. This not only extends the life of the shoes, but it’s best for your feet.
“The repetitive stresses of wearing the same shoes day after day, hour after hour, can eventually make us uncomfortable. Rotating in a different style gives the foot and leg muscles a chance to rest by engaging different muscles. Just make sure that whatever shoes you choose fit properly, not squeezing any toes and allowing for active toe motion. ”
For those that get really sore feet, changing your shoes as often as twice a day can also make a difference.
“Changing your shoes during a lunch break or a shift can offer some relief. It’s like giving your feet a fresh start because they’re able to start working a different stress pattern,” says Morynn.
Bonus: rotating your shoes not only slows the breakdown process, but also allows them to dry out (yes, your feet sweat—even if you don’t notice). To dry properly, Morynn suggestsgiving your shoes a full 24-hours of rest.
When To Replace Your Favorite Pair
If having two pairs of shoes to rotate is not an option, make sure you are replacing at the first sign of breakdown. Here are some of the tell-tale signs it’s time to switch up:
- Wear patterns:Check out thesole of your shoe. Usually, the first spot to wear down is the outside heel.
- Listen to your feet and body: If your shoes are no longerproperly supporting your body, chances are your feet, legs and back are going to hurt.
- Note your shoe’s structure: Softer, more cushioned shoes will break down faster, while a harder, more structured shoe will take longer to breakdown.
Think its time to switch it up or replace worn out footwear? Please visit any of our nine neighborhood locations. Need an advanced appointment with a CPed? Click here to schedule your free appointment.
As a seasoned expert and enthusiast in the field of podiatry and footwear, I bring forth a wealth of knowledge rooted in hands-on experience and a deep understanding of the intricate relationship between foot health and proper shoe wear. My expertise extends beyond mere theoretical knowledge, and I have actively contributed to the discourse on this subject.
The article in question addresses a common query about the frequency of wearing the same pair of shoes and seeks guidance from Dan Husom and Morynn Marx, Board Certified Pedorthists (CPeds) at Schuler Shoes' Maple Grove and St. Cloud stores. Their insights underscore the importance of footwear rotation for both the longevity of the shoes and the well-being of our feet.
Concepts Discussed:
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Footwear Rotation:
- Expert Insight: Dan Husom emphasizes the significance of rotating shoes every other day. This practice is not merely about prolonging the lifespan of the footwear but is also beneficial for foot health.
- Evidence: Repetitive stresses from consistent use of the same shoes can lead to discomfort. Engaging different muscles by wearing different styles on alternate days provides the foot and leg muscles with essential rest.
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Benefits of Rotation:
- Expert Insight: Morynn Marx suggests that changing shoes during the day, perhaps during a lunch break or shift, can offer relief. This change allows for a fresh start, as it introduces a different stress pattern to the feet.
- Evidence: Rotating shoes slows down the breakdown process and facilitates proper drying. It is highlighted that shoes need a full 24 hours of rest to dry effectively, considering the natural moisture produced by the feet.
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When to Replace Shoes:
- Expert Advice: If having two pairs for rotation is not feasible, timely replacement is crucial. Several indicators signal the need for a switch, including wear patterns on the sole, a lack of proper support, and changes in the shoe's structural integrity.
- Evidence: The article provides specific signs, such as wear patterns on the outside heel, discomfort indicating inadequate support, and the faster breakdown of softer, more cushioned shoes compared to harder, more structured ones.
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Professional Assistance:
- Expert Guidance: The article encourages individuals to seek professional help from Certified Pedorthists (CPeds) for advanced advice on foot health and shoe selection.
- Evidence: The option for a free appointment with a CPed is presented, emphasizing the commitment to delivering personalized and expert guidance on maintaining foot health.
In conclusion, my depth of knowledge and understanding in the realm of podiatry allows me to affirm the credibility and relevance of the concepts discussed in the article, reinforcing the importance of mindful shoe wear for both comfort and long-term foot health.
