Running (Shoe) Retirement

My running story told in shoes and four of the toes that have worn them because I don't know how to crop the photo.

My blue pair of running shoes were retired in late October after getting plantar fascititis in my left foot. Only after a few people asked did I realize I had run about 700 miles in those great Asics. 300 miles later my pink Asics are being transferred from my “runners” box to my “old runners” box on my closet shelf. Did you catch that?! I’ve run 1,000 miles since December 2011!!

700 miles was much too late to retire shoes and I was worried that 300 was too soon, then I started having knee discomfort when I ran and saw that my soles were wearing unevenly. After looking into it, I discovered 300-500 miles is the right time for retirement. Mine are opting for early retirement.

So, what’s life like for my “old runners” you may wonder. Oh it’s a good life. They get to take off my Road ID and let the laces underneath breathe. They get worn for walking, living and playing, no longer just for running. Although they are too worn for running in, they feel like a great pair of new sneakers. Today, for example they get to experience what it’s like to play soccer.

I keep two pairs of old runners at a time, and then donate them so they can live on. This last time it was to the local Goodwill, next time I hope to donate them internationally. 

I already have my next pair of running shoes in my closet and I can’t wait for my next run in my new rainbow runners!

8/5/13