In Focus

Taking a quick peek at sneakers
Sneaker Mileage

By Mackenzie Tuberville

{mosimage}Running or walking is a healthy and enjoyable form of exercise, but if you aren’t replacing your running shoes often enough, you may be doing yourself more harm than good. Running or walking in worn-out shoes can lead to problems in the knees, lower back, hips and ankles, according to Shaw From of Shaw’s Athletics.

Don’t look to the wear on the bottoms of your shoes as an indicator, From says; the inside cushioning of the shoe usually breaks down first. He adds that the amount of mileage you put on your shoes and your body weight should determine when you replace them.

“Running shoes are good for about 300 miles if you’re heavy; if you’re lightweight, it will be about 400.” Walking shoes will last between 400 and 500 miles.

Dr. Paul Reynolds of Southeastern Podiatry Clinic said sneakers will last longer if you rotate between different pairs, giving them time to air out between wearings.