Typically, with normal wear and tear, a pair of high-quality shoe insoles or orthotic arch supports should last six to nine months.
For those who are on their feet a greater percentage of the time, insoles typically last around three to six months. However, there are many factors involved when determining whether its time to replace your insoles or arch supports.
Factors that will impact when you need to replace your insoles:
- Brand quality: Top over the counter brands will last you longer than knock-offs, imitations, and other low quality brands.
- Brand style: Cushioned insoles tend to wear quicker than orthotics made with plastics or carbon fiber.
- Type of material: Insoles made entirely of foam will wear quicker than insoles that have a combination of foam and plastic.
- Body weight
- Amount of time worn and frequency of use
- Type of activities performed: High impact activities like running or football will wear insoles quicker compared to casual use.
Insoles and orthotic arch support are all made very differently.
It is important to pick the right type of insole for your individual needs, as well as, knowing exactly which type you wear. Insoles made of wool or cotton terry material will have a shorter lifespan compared to insoles made of foam, gel, and/or a fabric top cloth. As a rule, some brands have overall longer lives than others because they are made with different quality materials. Name Brand Insoles come complete with manufacturer warranties and have decades of experience behind them, versus private label brands that may not stand up to common quality tests in attempts to provide low-cost inferior products.
Weight and amount of time spent standing is another contributing factor. Performing activities such as jogging, running marathons, or walking frequently can affect the lifespan of your insoles. If your usage or wear is very high, consider replacing every 2-4 months instead.
Although there are many factors to consider when buying a new pair of insoles, there are obvious signs of wear and tear to look out for, such as damage, tearing or cracking, discoloration, smell, or compression (flattening of the insole).
Let us help you decide which insoles are right for you; Visit our Insole Guide for helpful information.