how many miles per running shoe

 

It is a common misconception that the number of miles per running shoe indicates how long it will last. This usually refers to a marathon or ultra-marathon runner, who will likely run anywhere from 250-1,000 miles in their lifetime. This is due to the durability of running shoes used by this group.

 

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However, for non-runners and lower mileage runners who are looking for more information about the longevity of their new purchase, the number of miles per shoe may be helpful in determining whether or not they should buy a new pair every year.

 

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What does the number of miles per running shoe really mean?

Here’s a look at how the number of miles per running shoe is calculated: For every pair of shoes you own or have destroyed beyond repair, add up how many total miles you have run in them. 

 

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This includes walking and everyday wear and tear. Then, divide that number by the total amount of shoes you have owned. 

 

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For example, if you have run 200 miles in one pair and 400 in another, then your average is 300 miles per pair and 600 divided by 2 (how many pairs) is 300. This means that over your lifetime you had an average of 300 miles per running shoe.

 

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Once you know that the average runner gets 300 miles per running shoe, then you can compare your lifetime running mileage to this number. 

 

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If your numbers are very similar, then it is likely that your shoes will last a long time. If they are vastly different, then you should either get new shoes or change up your gait. 

 

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However, if the number is higher than 300 and you have not been running for a long time, then there may be some other factors to consider such as wear and tear from walking or daily use. 

 

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Also keep in mind that these calculations do not account for the types of shoes you own or switch between regularly (different types of running shoes and everyday walking shoes).

How many miles per running shoe should I buy?

 

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Many people have a hard time deciding how many miles they should get out of one pair of shoes. Some people have the mindset that if they spend $65-$100 on running shoes, then they better get a lot of mileage out of them.

This is not always the case, though some brands and models will certainly last longer than others. For example, trail runners tend to last longer as well as running shoes with extra cushioning to absorb impact from heel strike or heavier runners who cause more wear and tear on the soles and uppers.

 

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A marathon runner will likely get 1,000 or more miles out of one pair of shoes, but that does not mean you have to run a marathon in order for your shoes to last longer. 

 

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On the other hand, runners who wear their shoes in daily life may need to replace them sooner. When comparing the number of miles per running shoe from one person to another, 

 

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it is also important to remember that people will wear out their shoes differently. 

 

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Some people are very picky about how they care for their running shoes and others hardly ever wash them or treat them right.

 

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Conclusion

As you can see, there is often a misconception about how many miles per running shoe translates into the optimal amount of time between replacing running shoes.