I made the decision to retire my Sulphur colored, Asics Gel Kayano 24, running shoes today. 

The decision as to exactly when to retire running shoes, is not an easy one.  Many people base the decision on mileage, but for me, there is no set formula like this.  There are many factors that influence the decision.

This particular pair of shoes are quite old and age is definitely a factor. I first ran in these shoes in September 2018; they were by far, my oldest active pair of shoes.

I have run a total of 359 miles in the shoes, over the course of 65 runs.  I have retired Gel Kayano shoes at a variety of distances, but I usually get between 350 and 400 miles out of them.

Visibly the shoes are quite worn on the soles and the foam in the heel, is showing a few permanent creases.  Both of these, are typical for shoes close to retirement.

All of the above, were good indicators that it was getting close to the time for retirement.  The major factor I use however, is actually a little more subjective.  I know it’s time, when my legs feel tired or ache after a run in the shoes.  This feeling lets me know, that the shoes are no longer supporting me adequately. 

Could I run in these shoes for a few more miles?  I think I could maybe get another fifty miles or so out of them, but it’s not worth it.  I prefer to err on the side of caution with running; it’s just so hard on the body and it is easy to pick up an injury.  

So with these shoes retired, I guess it’s time to go shopping for a new pair !!!