Neelam Rahim | neelam@radioislam.co.za

3-minute read
25 February 2024 | 10:54 CAT

According to podiatrists, the shoes we wear on a daily basis need to be replaced every 8 to 12 months.

Today, we’re delving into the realm of footwear. We all have that one trusty pair of shoes that we slip into daily, whether for work or lounging at home. These shoes become like an old friend, providing comfort and familiarity that’s hard to replace.

But have you ever considered how often you should change your daily shoes? Just like cars need new tyres every few years, our feet bear the weight of our entire bodies, often enduring around ten thousand steps a day for many people.

According to podiatrists, everyday shoes must be replaced every 8 to 12 months – or when they show signs of wear and tear.

If your shoes are not as comfortable or as supportive as they once were, it’s a sure sign you’ll soon need to replace them. Over time, the material will begin to wear down and provide less cushioning to your feet.

Damaged shoes can quickly become very uncomfortable. We all know that discomfort can lead to poor posture and an unbalanced gait, which can cause aches and pains not just in the feet but all over the body.

Running and walking shoes are specifically designed to absorb shock during exercise. If they lack the cushioning or materials to do this, you could open yourself up to injury. That’s why, generally, podiatrists recommend changing most running shoes once you have used them for 700 km.

Avoid unnecessary pain or soreness by replacing your work footwear when your feet get sore or tired after work.

When it comes to the inside of your shoes wearing out, that’s also an important factor to consider. The more you wear them, the more your feet will rub against the lining material, causing unwanted friction. If you start seeing tears or holes in the lining, that’s a good indication that it’s time to replace them.

Listen to the full interview on Sabahul Muslim with Moulana Sulaimaan Ravat and his guest, Yaseera Hajee, An experienced podiatrist currently running two private practices built from the ground, an all-rounder podiatry practice with special interests in diabetes and sports.