Did you know that you need to replace shoes and insoles every year? I mean, I only get rid of shoes when the threads are barely hanging onto each other, and the sole is so worn down that you can feel the ground while you walk.
Do not worry; this time frame is not set in stone. It depends on how regularly you wear your shoes, whether you perform any strenuous activities, and the quality of the memory foam inserts present inside your shoes. At times, the insert will flatten out, but your shoes will remain intact. In that situation, you might have the option of replacing just the insole.
Read on to know the various reasons why the life of insoles decreases, and what can be done to extend that lifespan.
How Long do Memory Foam Insoles Last?
For a short answer, they can last from about half a year to a full year. This number can be higher or lower, depending on the amount of stress you place on the insoles, the quality and durability of the foam, and whether they still smell clean.
Do Memory Foam Inserts Only Last for a Year?
You might be wondering what the main role of memory foam is. When you press down on the foam and then release it, it will go back to its original form.
However, while weight is applied, due to heat and pressure from your body, the foam will mold itself to your foot contours. This contouring will keep your foot stable and cozy.
Most people opt for memory foam insoles for two reasons: they want to avoid an ailment or are alleviating symptoms of an already present foot problem. You might be experiencing a twinge in your knee, some strain on your back, or stiffness in your ankles. To ensure the pain does not get worse, foam insoles would be a safe bet.
On the other hand, you might already have a condition such as plantar fasciitis, where tissues in your foot become inflamed. Foam insoles will act as a crutch for the bottom of your foot to relieve some of the pain.
Now that you are made aware of the purpose of memory foam insoles let us move onto the factors that cause their deterioration.
Quality
As with most items, better quality comes at a higher price point. But, if you look at it in the long run, it is an investment. If you opt for a cheaper alternative, it is very likely the insert will have to be replaced every few months, as opposed to a pricier one, which will last longer.
Generally, the reason for prices being higher is that the materials used are of a superior breed. For the first few weeks, the lower quality insole will also do the job. But the inferior materials will depreciate more quickly.
Sturdiness
When you frequently move around, there is a lot of friction produced between your foot and the insole. Compression and retraction will continuously occur, till one day the insole will remain compressed. It will not go back to its primary form as the durability has given out.
This flattening will immediately be noticed while you are walking. The level of comfort you are used to will disappear, along with the support for your heel and arch. This factor also ties in with quality; the better-quality insoles you have, the sturdier they will be.
Usage
Now, I am not suggesting that you keep your shoes and insoles locked up in a cupboard so they will remain brand new. But if you are wearing these insoles every day and have to stay on your feet for extended periods, they will compress.
If you do high-intensity exercises or take part in athletic activities, your foot will come down with greater force, which will, in turn, exert pressure on the insole.
To make your insoles last longer, you can choose not to wear them on days where you will spend most of the day off your feet. You can also have different insoles for different shoes, so just one does bear the brunt of commotions.
Smell
If you have worn closed-toed shoes for the whole day, you know what kind of smell I am talking about. Insoles increase the chances of heat absorption, which will make your feet emit even more pungent odors. When the smell does not go away, it is time to get new insoles.
It would be best if you looked for foam insoles with antimicrobial coverings that will allow for some air to pass through. They will also prevent bacteria from accumulating to keep your feet odor-free. It is also suggested to remove insoles from shoes to let them air dry, before putting them on again.
With these tips in mind, you can make your inserts last longer, and do not be afraid to swap them when they stop providing reinforcement.
Can you Wash Insoles?
First, you need to ensure whether your insoles can be removed from your shoes. It is not always recommended to wash the whole shoe, depending on the material it is made from.
Once you remove the inserts, please do not just throw them in the washing machine, instead, wash them by hand with a small amount of detergent. It would be best if you then placed them in the sunshine for natural drying.
What are the Advantages and Disadvantages of Memory Foam Insoles?
There are certain benefits of using memory foam insoles. While walking, they will provide extra comfort akin to walking on a pillow. They will also equally distribute your weight throughout the shoe, so no one part of your foot has to bear all of the bulk.
Any shocks felt while walking will be absorbed into the foam, which will prevent any future foot pain. Proper support will be provided to your arch and heel to minimize the risk of injuries.
The downside of using these insoles is that they retain warmth. While most shoes are breathable, foam insoles at times do not offer the same ventilation features. When your feet feel hot, they will start to sweat. Sweat also equals your feet reeking.