Athletic Shoes Have a Limited Lifespan

Question: I read your article “If the Athletic Shoe Doesn’t Fit Well, Don’t Wear It,” and I have two more questions. How many miles can you use an athletic shoe? And can you play tennis with running shoes and vice versa?

Answer: To answer your first question: Place your old shoes on a table and look at them from the back. If they lean in or out or show signs of excessive wear (such as badly worn edges on the sole), it’s probably time for a new pair. Even if they seem to be in good shape, it’s time for a change if you’ve logged 500 miles in them or if you’re experiencing pain in your feet, ankles, legs or knees though you haven’t changed your exercise routine.

Now for the second question: Running shoes are primarily made to absorb shock as the heel strikes the ground. Tennis shoes, in contrast, provide more side-to-side stability. So although it’s an expense, different uses mean different shoes. One rule of thumb: If you participate in a sport more than three times a week, you should consider buying sport-specific shoes.

For more information, take a look at Runners World magazine (www.runnersworld.com) and Tennis Magazine (www.tennis.com).

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Stephanie Oakes is the fitness correspondent for Discovery Health Channel. Send questions by e-mail to [email protected].