3 Signs that Tell You it is Time to Ditch Your Favorite Sneakers

A lot of what Singapore has to offer is easily accessible either by walking or by using public transport. However, while a reliable pair of walking shoes will last you a long time, sometimes it may cause a few problems and annoyances before you realize that you should have ditched it for a new one some time ago. Here’s how you know when:

1. Your shoes are worn out
This is the most visible and obvious sign that your favorite (and sometimes only) pair of shoes need to be replaced. However, there are less obvious signs of wear and tear that you need to look out for.

For instance, the shoe’s overall structural support or the midsole shock absorbers could already deteriorate even if you think the shoe looks good. This depends on how far and how much time you spend walking in a day.

If possible, try rotating between two or three pairs to allow them to rest, and will last much longer.

2. You have visible signs of foot stress (i.e. callouses, in-grown toenails, blisters)
You should never have to “break in” any pair of shoes just to make yourself comfortable with it, and no amount of breaking in will build up your immunity to these kinds of foot stress. If you experience signs of irritation, ditch them and buy yourself a new pair immediately.

The same could be said if you feel pain in your arches. Because you will end up walking in them, your shoes should provide you with as much comfort as possible, and the shoes you have probably aren’t doing you any favors.

Unsupportive footwear will cause the muscle and tendons in your foot to continuously flex and tighten throughout the day to keep your feet up, which can cause painful injuries resulting from overuse.

3. Your toes touch the front of your shoe
Just because your foot grazes the front of your shoe doesn’t mean it fits perfectly. In fact, much like our fingers, our feet also swell and shrink throughout the day. Ideally, the best time for fitting new shoes is late in the afternoon, as your feet will be at their biggest.

This is generally accepted as the “rule of thumb” when it comes to fitting, and it allows you the maximum wiggle room for your feet.

Because your shoes don’t always look like they’re about to give out, don’t wait for these signs to cause you problems after three to five months. As much as possible, if you experience them right now, it’s time to get a new pair.

(Disclaimer: This list is compiled in no particular order.)