When it comes to working out or playing sports, the right shoes can be a big help when it comes to performing at your best and preventing injuries. The trouble is that the right shoes often cost quite a lot of money, and the more you use them, the faster they succumb to wear and tear. However, while no sneakers can last forever, you can substantially improve their lifespan if you care for them properly.
This article explains how to properly care for your gym shoes so that you are able to use them for as long as possible.
1. Clean them
Sorry, this first tip is no secret, but it cannot be avoided. The buildup of sweat and grim inside your sneakers is one of the major things that will cause them to degrade over time. Not to mention that it is unhygienic and can lead to foul smells and bacteria thriving inside them. Fortunately, cleaning them does not require too much work. A wipe down with a damp cloth after every use clears off most of the dirt, and every so often you can hand wash them with some soap and water. It is not recommended to put them in the washing machine because this can damage them more quickly.
2. Air them out
Once you have wiped your sneakers down after a workout, you need to dry them out otherwise the moisture will damage them and help bacteria to grow. Find a cool, airy, and dry place to store them, and keep the insoles separate from the shoes. Try to air them out as soon as possible and not leave them in your gym bag for long periods of time. Often, the fabric of the bag ends up absorbing smells from the shoes.
3. Cycle your sneakers
What this means is that you should have multiple pairs of sneakers which you rotate between. This is because they need some recovery time too. Each time your foot moves, the materials are stretched and twisted out of their original structure, and sometimes it can take a while for them to spring back into shape. If you just keep using them rather than letting them return to their original shape, it can make them weaker.
4. Use them only for exercise
Some shoes, like the Asics Gel Nimbus 9, work well as casual everyday sneakers and gym shoes. However, it is unwise to use them as both if you want them to last as long as possible. Wearing them outside the gym only exposes them to more dirt and wear and tear.
5. Replace the insoles
Insoles are the parts of your shoes that are most affected when you wear them. Over time, they can become thin or uneven, but you can change these independently of the shoe, and it will actually help them to last longer.
Conclusion
Caring for your sneakers properly means that over time you will end up spending less money on them. It also means that they will be safe and comfortable to wear for as long as possible, helping you to achieve your fitness goals.
