Basketball shoes should actually be replaced fairly frequently. Like for runners, shoes should be replaced every 350-500 miles or so—which takes a little under 70 total hours of running. The hard pounding from sprinting, jumping, and twisting back and forth in basketball quickly breaks down the supports in your court shoes and compromises the overall stability of the footwear. This can contribute to overuse injuries in your feet and ankles, which can cause additional problems in your knees, hips, and back. That’s why replacing worn shoes before they have a chance to contribute to injuries is so important.
Practically speaking, how often you replace shoes will depend on how much basketball you play. Professional players typically replace their footwear after a few games. College and highs school players usually only need to replace their shoes every couple of months, depending on how many hours they practice and play in game. One thing is for sure: if you’re noticing aches and pains during or after playing, it’s time to replace your shoes.
Let our team at Podiatry Associates, P.C. know if you experience foot pain from worn out shoes. You can reach our Castle Pines, Parker, or Cherry Creek, CO, offices online or by calling (303) 805-5156.