Born to run Why you should lovingly look after your trainers

Your trainers are a solid investment in healthy, happy feet. Look after them and they’ll love you back for longer.

LET THEM REST

After an intense workout or walk, give your shoes a 48-hour break between runs by training with a second pair. “It takes about that long for the foam to decompress,” says Jena Winger, senior footwear manager for Brooks Running. Resting your trainers can extend their life by up to 160km.

GIVE THEM SPACE

Shoes can break down when they’re not in use, says Claire Wood, global performance manager for New Balance. “Don’t stack them under your boots or other heavy shoes,” she advises, as the uppers are pliable, and crushing them wears them down.

THE BEST WAY TO DRY

Dry wet shoes by stuffing them with newspaper after removing the insoles. “Wet shoes that air-dry on their own tend to shrink, so stuffing newspaper tight into the toebox helps retain the shape of the shoe,” Jena says. “After the first 10 minutes, the paper will have soaked up as much water as it can, so switch it out with another batch, and leave it.”

ALWAYS UNTIE

“Unlace your shoes to take them off, rather than using your foot to kick them off,” Claire advises, then retie them when you put them on next time. This prevents the heel cup from getting crushed and losing support, she explains.

STAY COOL

Always leave shoes away from extreme heat and also direct sunlight. “Don’t leave them in a hot car,” says running shoe specialist Betsy Hughes. “This dries up, shrinks and hardens the midsole, which reduces the durability and cushioning,” she adds.

HAND-CLEANING ONLY

“Never put shoes in the washing machine or dryer,” Claire warns. “The textiles and performance materials are not meant to go through an intense wash and dry cycle,” she explains. Instead, buy some baby wipes to clean them, or use a little soap on a dish brush and scrub off whatever part got dirty.