We all have that pair of athleisure walking shoes that we love and can’t live without. They’re there for us when we need them, whether it’s a quick trip to the mailbox, a brisk walk around the neighborhood, or a run to the grocery store. 

Sadly, all shoes will eventually meet the end of their life, especially our day-to-day walking shoes. We abuse them, forcing them on and off without untying them and tossing them around the mudroom. How long are they really going to last?

Well, that question warrants answering, so we’re going to dive into it. After this article, you’ll have a solid idea of how long your pair of walking shoes is going to last you. Let’s get started!

Let’s ask some questions about your walking shoes

The secret to the life of a walking shoe lies in a few different aspects of the shoe’s build and how you treat it. To get to the bottom of how long your favorite pair of sneakers will last, ask yourself these questions. 

What is your shoe made of?

The materials your shoe is made of are a major factor when it comes to how long your shoe is going to last. Other important factors include: 

• Design
• Structure
• Manufacturer

The design of the shoe is its shape. Where are the seams located? How thick are the insole and outsole of the shoe? How do different pieces of the shoe join together? Do the shoes implement high-quality, cutting-edge technology? These are all important design questions that play into your shoe’s lifetime. 

The materials the shoe is made of are also vital. If the outsole is made of a low-quality material, the shoe will wear out quickly. If the shoe’s frame is made from fragile, brittle plastic or has no frame at all, your shoe won’t last long. If the fabric is poorly made and rips easily, your shoe can’t be expected to stick with you for the long haul. 

The shoe’s structure is critical to its long-term integrity. Does the body or upper part of the shoe have a frame inside of it to keep the shape of the shoe? Is the stitching good? Does the sole have a practical shape?

Lastly, the company that makes your shoe is everything! They’re the ones who make the decisions about all of the design choices above. Are you buying from a trustworthy company with a noble mission and vision? Does the company create products with the customer in mind instead of just for profit? 

How often are you wearing your walking shoes?

The usage of your shoes is obviously going to play a factor in how long they’re going to last. If you’re wearing these shoes every day to a job where you’re on your feet all the time, you probably can’t expect your walking shoes to last very long. 

If you give them moderate use, wearing them out a few times a week, your shoes can last a lot longer. You know how often you’re going to be wearing your walking shoes, so set your expectations accordingly. 

How well do you take care of your walking shoes?

Finally, how well are you caring for your shoes? If you get them soaked in mud and don’t clean them, then, of course, the shoe’s life is going to shorten. 

If you keep your shoes clean, wear them for their intended purposes, and store them in a dry, dark place, your shoes will take care of you, too. 

Here’s what to look for to get the most life out of your shoes

Now that we know the questions we need to ask about our shoes, let’s find out some answers. Here are some of the things that you need to be on the lookout for when shopping for your next pair of athleisure shoes. 

Get a solid shoe structure and design

One of the biggest reasons a shoe gets worn out is because it has a weak framework and design. For our day-to-day walking shoes, we want to be able to slip them on when we’re rushing out the door for a busy day. If a shoe has a weak frame, slipping your shoes on and off while leaving them tied (like so many of us do) will cause the shoe to go limp over time. 

The sole is also of the utmost importance in shoe design: both the insole and the outsole. The insoles need to keep your foot supported all day long, and they need to be removable in case they wear out. 

The outsole shouldn’t wear out quickly when it comes into contact with concrete or asphalt. It needs to maintain its structural integrity while still giving you that cushy comfort you’re looking for in a walking shoe. 

Find quality materials

The materials the shoe is made of are important for so many aspects of the shoe’s quality: 

• Comfort
• Breathability
• Functionality
• Durability

It’s incredibly important that the materials of your next pair of shoes are up to snuff!

For example, the insole is in contact with your foot (well, technically, your sock) all day long. Not only does it need to be comfortable and breathable, but it needs to be able to stay intact as you walk on it day after day. It also needs to be made out of a material that can be washed so you can remove any odors that accumulate. 

The outsole needs to be made of a material that can handle the elements. We’ve all had shoes that start to turn to literal dust when you walk on rough surfaces too much. Poor materials mean that the shoe is going to fade before long. Look for materials like sturdy rubber for a long-lasting shoe. 

The upper needs to hold up too. Leather or canvas will last far longer than a knit material. If you’re trying to get a walking shoe that will last you years, get a material that fits your goals.  

Get a shoe that fits your lifestyle

That brings us to our final point: get shoes that match the lifestyle you have. If you want a pair of comfy shoes for your office job, get something with a Rabbit FoamⓇ sole and a breathable knit upper for maximum comfort. 

If you’re looking for a durable walking shoe that you can take on daily walks around your neighborhood, look for a canvas shoe with quality insoles and a sturdy rubber outsole. 

And if you need a pair of hands-free shoes that’s easy to put on in any situation, look for a shoe with HandsFree LabsⓇ shoe entry technology so you can slip your shoes on and off without wearing out the structure of the shoe. 

Your shoes should not only fit your feet but your personality too! Shoes are where style and functionality intersect, and they should be a reflection of who you are, both in look and in what it does for you. 

What’s the best walking shoe that will stand the test of time?

When it comes to what walking shoes will last you the longest, Kiziks are one of the best options available. Kizik is a company devoted to making shoes that are both stylish and practical. 

Kiziks are made with materials that are both comfortable and durable, and we have all sorts of models that are designed to meet your needs. From a casual comfort athleisure shoe like the Lima to a long-lasting, durable walking shoe like the Vegas, Kizik has your back with high-tech design and quality that will stand the test of time and comfort. 

One thing that all Kiziks have in common is that they are the easiest shoes to put on, thanks to our HandsFree LabsⓇ technology. They’re not slip-ons; they’re even better. The cage technology surrounding the heel means that you can simply slide into the shoe, hands-free, without crushing the heel or even using your hands. 

It's perfect for kids who hate tying their shoes, adults who need a quick pair of shoes to throw on before heading out the door, or people with a life situation that requires a hands-free shoe experience. 

Whatever your footwear needs are, Kizik has your back with chic, fashionable shoes that meet your needs. Check out Kizik today and experience the comfort of hands-free shoes.

How to maximize the lifespan of your walking shoes

Let's talk longevity. To keep your shoes as fresh as they were the day you got them, you’ll need to apply some TLC. 

Here are a few insights to help your shoes keep up and avoid early signs of wear.  

Embrace the art of rotation

First off, don't put all your miles on one pair. Swapping between a few can prevent rapid wear and tear, especially on the midsole's cushioning and the outsole's tread pattern. 

This is about maintaining the shoe's integrity for running, workouts, or those unexpected sprints to catch the bus. We all need a rest day, even your trusty sneakers. 

Be mindful of the surface

Just as you'd choose a mountain bike for trails, match your shoe to the terrain. Athletic shoes thrive on the track and pavement but may struggle on rocky paths. Each type of shoe is built with a purpose, and sticking to it can vastly extend its lifespan.

Cleaning: A necessary ritual

Mud and dirt from your adventures can shorten your shoe's life. Regular cleaning will keep materials from breaking down prematurely. 

A gentle brush, some soap, and air drying away from direct sunlight can do wonders. It's about keeping them in tip-top shape without letting them dry out or crease unnecessarily.

Listen to your shoes

Pay attention to signs of wear on old shoes. A flattened midsole, diminished shock absorption, or a tread pattern that's barely there also indicate your kicks are worn out. 

If you're getting blisters or other pains, it could be time for either new shoes or a different type of shoe altogether.

Cushioning and support matter

A good walking or running shoe will come with adequate arch support and cushioning to tackle foot pain and conditions like plantar fasciitis. Don't wait for discomfort to set in; prevention is key.

Conclusion

At Kizik, we craft each pair of shoes with the promise of durability, style, and unparalleled comfort. Our shoes are designed not just to last but to evolve with you, effortlessly fitting into your life and routine. 

From the cushioning that supports every step to the hands-free technology that makes slipping them on a breeze, we're here to ensure that when it comes to longevity, style, and comfort, you never have to compromise. 

We’ll ensure you never need to compromise longevity, style, or comfort with any pair of our hands-free slip-on shoes. 

Ready to live the cushy life? Invest in hands-free Kiziks. 

Sources:

7 tips for choosing the perfect shoes for your feet | University Health Center 

Analysis of the quality of modern polymer materials of sole | E3S Web of Conferences

How to Wash Dirty Sneakers and Other Shoes in the Washing Machine | Utopia