How to Improve the Longevity of Running, Cycling and Swimming Gear

Running

Running trainers are the most crucial piece of equipment you need if you want to keep increasing those kilometers. Without them, you have an increased risk of causing yourself an injury. There are many factors that can affect the strength and longevity of your running trainers, including the terrain you on, your running stance and style, and your height and weight. For a combination of all of these reasons, it is recommended that you replace your running shoes every 500-750km.

Signs that you need new running shoes:

• Wearing on the outer soles is the best indication you can get that you need a new pair of trainers
• Wearing on the inner sole can cause a loss of the spring level in your trainers, over time, the inner sole will become hard and you will lose the protection of the spring on your legs and knees
• Wearing on the edges (if the sole is still intact but the edges are worn, it is possible you may be wearing the wrong size!)
• A fraying heel can cause friction on the ankles when you run, this could be a sign to buy a new pair or to try a different size
• If you’re starting to feel discomfort in your legs, ankles, knees, back or hips after running

It’s brilliant practice to try and prolong the usage of your trainers. Keeping them clean, running on appropriate surfaces and removing them properly will keep you running for those extra kilometers.  

Cycling

With cycling, the equipment you use isn’t limited to what you can wear on your personal being, it’s crucial that your bike is ready and safe ride every time. If you’re an avid rider, you should get your bike serviced twice a year, if you ride every once in a blue moon, once a year will be fine! If you want to find out more about basic bike maintenance, check out our blog here!

Helmet

Some bicycle manufacturers recommend that you should replace your helmet every 3-5 years. Modern helmets are built to last 20+ years, however, if you’re involved in an accident however, you should replace your helmet straight away. Bicycle helmets can deteriorate with sweat, dirt and sunlight.

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Tubes and Tyres

Bicycle tyres should be replaced every 2000-3000 miles, unless you find that you’re getting an excessive amount of flats or bare tread. Inner tubes should be replaced every 3-4 years. If, however,  you have a burst tube, even though patching is a great short term solution, it’s best to replace them soon as possible‍

Swimming ‍

Excessive chlorine, salt water and sunlight will breakdown your swimming gear, no matter how much time and care you put in to protecting them. ‍

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Swimming goggles‍

Goggles should be replaced every 6 months. They should be cleaned with warm soapy water after every use and place them in to a case to avoid scratching.

Swimming caps

Swimming caps can last from 1 month-3 years, depending on how much you use them and how well you look after them. Silicone swim caps are the best on the market and have the longest duration. In order to prolong the lifespan of your swimming cap, it should be rinsed with non-chlorinated water and left to dry after every use. For extra protection, you can sprinkle some talcum powder on the inside to absorb extra moisture and prevent the growth of bacteria.

Swimwear

Whether you’re swimming in trunks, a swimsuit, a wetsuit or a bikini, the chances are, you’ll have to replace them at least once a year if you’re a keen swimmer. Just like swimming caps, your swimwear should be rinsed in clean water and hung up to dry. Putting swimwear through the washing machine or tumble dryer with detergents can cause deterioration!

Now you have all the tips you need to improve the longevity of your equipment (and have figured out you’re due for a new set of trainers!) get stuck in to a GoJoe challenge and put your kit through those kilometers!