Running shoes take a beating. Miles of pavement, trails, and even treadmills can wear them down, and that's before you factor in sweat, mud, and the occasional puddle. But with a little care, you can extend the life of your favorite running shoes and keep them feeling (and smelling) their best. Properly putting them away is a key part of that.
Simple Steps for Preserving Your Running Shoes
The moment you take off your running shoes is the first opportunity to impact their longevity. Don't just kick them into a pile by the door! A few simple habits can make a big difference.
Air Them Out
The biggest enemy of running shoes (besides, you know, running) is moisture. Sweat and dampness breed bacteria, which leads to odors and can break down the materials of the shoe over time. So, the first thing you should do after a run is remove the insoles and let both the shoes and insoles air out completely. This allows moisture to evaporate and prevents bacteria from thriving.
I usually leave my shoes and insoles sitting separately near a window or in a well-ventilated area. Even a few hours of airing out can make a huge difference in preventing odors.
Remove Dirt and Debris
Mud, dirt, and small stones can also damage your running shoes. They grind against the materials, accelerating wear and tear. Before storing your shoes, give them a quick cleaning. A soft brush or damp cloth can remove most surface dirt. For stubborn mud, you might need to use a mild soap and water solution. Just be sure to let them dry completely afterward.
Consider Shoe Trees
Shoe trees aren't just for dress shoes. They can also help running shoes maintain their shape and absorb moisture. Cedar shoe trees are particularly effective because cedarwood is naturally absorbent and has antibacterial properties. While you don't necessarily need to use them every single time, using shoe trees regularly can help prevent your shoes from creasing and losing their shape, especially if they're made of leather or other materials that are prone to deformation.
Where to Put Your Shoes: Ideal Storage Conditions
The location where you store your running shoes is just as important as how you prepare them for storage. Think cool, dry, and dark.
Avoid Direct Sunlight and Heat
Direct sunlight and heat can damage the materials of your running shoes, causing them to fade, crack, or even melt (especially if they're made of synthetic materials). Avoid storing your shoes in direct sunlight, near radiators, or in hot cars. A cool, dry place is ideal.
The Closet is Your Friend (Usually)
A closet is often a good option for storing running shoes, as it's typically dark and relatively cool. However, make sure your closet is well-ventilated. If your closet is damp or humid, it's not a good place to store your shoes. You can also use moisture-absorbing products like silica gel packets to help keep the humidity down.
I have a dedicated shelf in my closet just for my running shoes. This keeps them organized and out of the way, and it also ensures that they're stored in a cool, dry place.
What about the Garage?
The garage can be a tempting storage option, but it's often not ideal. Garages can be damp, dusty, and prone to temperature fluctuations. Unless your garage is climate-controlled, it's best to avoid storing your running shoes there. The same goes for attics, which can get extremely hot in the summer.
Can You Store Shoes in a Plastic Bag?
While it might seem like a good idea to store your running shoes in a plastic bag to protect them from dust, this can actually trap moisture and create a breeding ground for bacteria. If you want to protect your shoes from dust, use a breathable cotton bag or a shoe box with ventilation holes.
Extending Shoe Life: Practical Tips
Beyond the basics of cleaning and storage, there are a few other things you can do to extend the life of your running shoes.
Rotate Your Shoes
If you're a serious runner, consider rotating between two or three pairs of running shoes. This allows each pair to fully recover between runs, which can help extend their lifespan. It also allows you to choose the right shoe for the type of run you're doing – a lighter shoe for speed work, a more cushioned shoe for long runs, etc.
I usually have two pairs of running shoes in rotation: one for everyday runs and one for longer or more intense workouts. This helps prevent any one pair from wearing out too quickly.
Loosen the Laces
When you take off your running shoes, loosen the laces completely. This helps the shoes maintain their shape and prevents the eyelets from becoming stretched or damaged. It also makes it easier to slip your shoes on and off next time, reducing wear and tear on the heel counter.
Wash Them (Carefully) When Needed
While regular cleaning with a brush and damp cloth is usually sufficient, sometimes your running shoes need a more thorough cleaning. If they're particularly dirty or smelly, you can wash them in the washing machine. However, be sure to use a gentle cycle and cold water. Remove the insoles and laces first, and put the shoes in a mesh laundry bag to protect them from damage. Never put your running shoes in the dryer – always let them air dry completely.
When Should You Replace Running Shoe Insoles?
Insoles can get worn out, compressed, or start to retain unpleasant odors over time. Replacing them can breathe new life into older shoes, improving comfort and support. Consider replacing the insoles every few months or after a certain number of miles, depending on your running frequency and the quality of the insoles.
Know When to Say Goodbye
Even with the best care, running shoes eventually wear out. The cushioning compresses, the support diminishes, and the outsole loses its grip. Running on worn-out shoes can increase your risk of injury. So, it's important to know when to say goodbye. A general guideline is to replace your running shoes every 300-500 miles, but this can vary depending on your weight, running style, and the type of shoes you're wearing.
I track the mileage on my running shoes using a running app. This helps me know when it's time to start thinking about replacing them.
Taking a few minutes to properly store and care for your running shoes can significantly extend their life and keep them performing their best. It's a small investment of time that can save you money and prevent injuries in the long run.