Should I Have More Than One Pair of Running Shoes? (2024)

FAQs

Do I really need two pairs of running shoes? ›

If you run most days of the week, you need at least two pairs of running shoes. You will want to 'rotate' your running shoes throughout the week, rather than wear the same pair for several days in a row.

So, how many types of running shoes does a runner need? The short answer is: at least two different types of running shoes. One for short distances and one for long distances.

Alternating between two pairs of shoes can help to build the strength of our intrinsic foot muscles by allowing our foot to have to adapt to different shoes. This intrinsic strength is important for strong feet and prevention of injuries such as plantar fasciitis.

It's generally accepted that the standard lifespan of road running shoes is somewhere between 300 - 500 miles, or around 500 - 800km, with lightweight shoes somewhere between 250 - 300 miles.

Alternating shoes reduces injury risk

The study used a sample size of 264 runners. Of those runners, those who rotated their running shoes had a 39% reduction in their injury risk. The researchers believed injury risk was lower because different shoes produce slightly different gait patterns and muscles recruitment.

Whether you're running for fun or training for a marathon, the right running shoes provide the proper foundation for your entire body, can help prevent injuries and make it far more enjoyable to log those miles. Ultimately, the right pair will fit well from the start and complement your running style.

Keep an eye out for heel damage, worn soles and rips and tears. If you notice new discomfort in your feet, legs, knees, hips or back after running, it may be time for a new pair of shoes. The same is true if you're getting blisters or feeling hot spots where you never used to.

Insider advice from a former industry expert

I purchase ~10 pairs a year and spend ~$500 in total on them. All of the shoes I buy have high retail MSRPs (usually between $120 and $180) meant for serious running, I avoid the ~$50 junky entry-level shoes that you see on display at places like Kohls (never buy these!).

The further you run the more your foot will naturally expand. This means it's wise to have just a little extra room (about a thumb's width) between your longest toe and the front of the shoe. With this in mind, your running shoe should be around a half size larger than the shoe size you usually get.

There's no hard and fast rule for how many pairs of shoes you should have on the go at once. Some people might have two or three, while others may have five or more. Factors to consider include your weekly mileage, your training split (easy vs hard sessions), and the types of distances you'll be covering.

Is it weird to wear the same pair of shoes Everyday? ›

It is very beneficial to alternate your shoes rather than wearing the same pair every day. Here are a few reasons why: Foot Health: Wearing the same shoes daily can lead to the accumulation of moisture and sweat inside the shoes, creating a breeding ground for bacteria and fungi.

The global shoe ownership average is 7 to 8 pairs per person. In the United States, the average number of pairs owned by one person is 6. British women own 30-35 pairs of shoes on average. Meanwhile, British men own 18.

Two to Four Pairs of Running Shoes is the Sweet Spot

At the very least, you'll want a daily trainer that's comfortable and versatile, and a speed-oriented shoe for faster workouts and race day.

With the Hoka Clifton, depending on how well you take care of them and what terrain you're using them on during your runs, you can expect around 300-500 miles (we've seen some clocking 400 miles easily before any reported serious physical damage). But remember, these shoes are not designed to last forever.

Although wearing your running shoes for everyday life can be perfectly fine, the same can't be said for wearing casual shoes for running. Here are some things to consider before you head out for a run in casual shoes.

The general rule is that a quality pair of shoes will last you 300-500 miles, but that's an average. If you're taller or heavier than average, you can expect to need a replacement pair closer to the 300-mile mark; if you're leaner, you'll be closer to the top end of that range.

Proper running shoes give your foot arches the support they need to withstand high-impact activity. Proper running shoes help protect you from injuries, reducing stress on your ankles, heels, and toes. Proper running shoes help to prevent and to reduce back hip, and knee pain.

The same pair of shoes won't work, long-term, for both activities. Runners and walkers use a different foot strike as they move. This is because, at one point, runners have both feet off the ground while walkers always have one foot down.

They are lighter in support and cushioning, which you can train your body to adapt to, but if you rush into it too quickly you're pretty much guaranteed an injury – tight calves, strained Achilles, knee pain, and in the worst case a stress fracture. Firstly know what kind of minimalist shoe you've got.