A good pair of sports shoes is an investment. With proper care, performance footwear can last 18 to 24 months of regular use — but neglect them and you’ll be shopping for a replacement within 6 months. The good news is that keeping your shoes in great shape takes very little time and effort if you know the right habits.
Here are 7 practical tips to extend the life of your Rydus Performance shoes.
1. Remove Dirt After Every Use
Mud, dust, and grit are the enemies of your shoe’s outsole and upper. After each workout or outing, tap the soles together to remove loose dirt, and use a soft dry brush or old toothbrush to clear dirt from the grooves of the sole. This prevents abrasive particles from grinding into the material over time.
2. Never Machine Wash (Unless the Label Says So)
The washing machine may seem like a quick fix, but the agitation, heat, and spin cycle can break down the adhesives in the midsole, warp the shoe’s shape, and damage the mesh upper. Instead, hand wash your shoes with a soft cloth, mild soap, and lukewarm water.
💡 Stuff your shoes with newspaper while they dry to absorb moisture and help them hold their shape.
3. Dry at Room Temperature — Never in the Sun
After washing, avoid direct sunlight or heat sources like radiators or hairdryers. High heat degrades the EVA foam in the midsole and causes colours to fade. Instead, leave your shoes in a ventilated area indoors and let them dry naturally overnight.
4. Rotate Between Two Pairs
If you work out daily, consider rotating between two pairs of shoes. Foam midsoles need 24 to 48 hours to fully decompress and recover between uses. Using the same pair every day accelerates breakdown and reduces cushioning effectiveness much faster. At Rydus Performance prices, owning a second pair is very manageable.
5. Store Them Properly
Keep shoes in a cool, dry place when not in use. Avoid storing them in plastic bags or airtight containers, which trap moisture and encourage mould and odour. A shoe rack or open shelf is ideal. If you store shoes long-term, use silica gel packets inside each shoe to absorb moisture.
6. Use the Right Shoes for the Right Activity
Wearing your running shoes for football or your gym shoes on a rocky trail puts stress on parts of the shoe that aren’t designed for it. Using the appropriate shoe for each activity — as discussed in our running vs training guide — significantly extends the life of each pair.
7. Replace Insoles Periodically
Insoles compress and lose their cushioning before the rest of the shoe wears out. Replacing the insole every 6 to 9 months (or when you start to feel the shoe’s inner structure through it) gives your shoe a second life and keeps your feet comfortable and supported.
When Is It Time to Replace Your Shoes?
Even with great care, sports shoes have a natural lifespan. Look for these signs that it’s time for a new pair:
- The midsole feels flat and no longer absorbs impact
- The outsole tread is worn smooth in patches
- The upper has visible tears or the heel counter has collapsed
- You’re experiencing joint pain or discomfort during activities where you didn’t before
When it’s time for a new pair, explore the full Rydus Performance collection at rydusperformance.com — with free shipping across India and regular discounts up to 40% off.