There’s no one-size-fits-all solution for finding the perfect long-lasting shoes, but there are a few key things you can look out for. Cute shoes may look great, but not every pair is made to last long. Some can fall apart after years, while others surprise you by staying for years. So, when shopping for shoes, how can you tell which is which? What signs should you look for to know if a pair is really worth your money? Don’t worry; I am here with the solution. In this article, I have listed some simple signs to look for that can help you pick a strong, reliable pair. See, you don’t need to be a shoe expert. Just a little attention to detail can help you make an informed purchase. So, let’s get started.

Ensure the Shoe Material is of High Quality 

The shoe material plays a big role in determining its quality and how long it will last. Before you select a pair, look at what material it is made of. Below are some different types of materials you should be familiar with:

Leather: A shoe made of high-quality, real leather tends to be more durable than synthetic options. This material stretches with your foot and ages nicely. 

Synthetic Leather: There’s no doubt that synthetic leather is cheaper, but you should know that it often cracks, peels, or loses shape quicker. 

Canvas: These are great for casual wear but might not hold up as long in bad weather or daily use. 

Note: If the material feels flimsy, thin, or overly shiny, it might not be built to last. 

Tip: Try to bend the shoe gently. If it feels like it might crack, that’s not a great sign. 

Consider the Stitching 

The stitching ensures the different parts of the shoe are securely held together, adding strength and durability. What you need to look for is whether the stitches are even. Do they look tight and strong? And are there any loose threads? 

Shoes with strong, visible stitching usually hold up better than those that are glued together. It’s because glued shoes might start coming apart more quickly, especially if they get wet or are worn frequently. 

Tip: If you find shoes with both stitching and glue, it’s a strong indication that the shoe was made with more care and attention to detail. 

Check the Sole 

The sole refers to the bottom part of the shoe, and it’s the most important thing to check.  If the shoe sole is thick and sturdy, it means the shoe will last longer. However, if the sole feels thin, bendy, or hollow, it might wear down quickly. Also, check if the sole is stitched on or glued on. Stitched soles tend to last longer than glued ones. You might also notice that some high-quality shoes have soles that can be fixed. This means they can be repaired instead of tossed out. 

Check How It Bends 

When you’re in the store, take an easy test of the shoe’s flexibility by gently bending it from the toe toward the heel. If a shoe is of high quality, it will bend a little at the front, right where your foot naturally moves. However, if it bends too much or feels flimsy, it may not provide sufficient support or last long. 

Check the Padding Inside 

Comfort also matters, especially when you have to wear shoes for an extended period. Your shoe’s insole must be padded and supportive enough to keep your feet comfortable. How to check? Press down on the insole. Does it feel soft and springy? Or is it firmly attached or sliding around? Some cheap, quality shoes have insoles that wear down too quickly. Thus, if it already feels thin in the store, it’ll probably wear out quickly once you start walking. 

Check the Heel of Your Shoe 

Ladies, if you’re going to buy heels or boots, I know you’ll go for the style, but don’t forget to check how sturdy the heel actually is. If the heel feels loose or poorly attached, it could break or become uncomfortable really fast. So, give it a little shake or press to see if it’s firmly connected. A strong, stable heel means better balance and longer wear. 

Buy from Reliable Brands 

The most common mistake people make is choosing without thinking about the brand’s reputation for quality. By buying from reliable brands, you’re more likely to get shoes made with better materials and craftsmanship. One of the most reputable brands, Rieker, offers a wide range of top-quality women’s boots that combine style and comfort. Be it casual everyday wear or something more elegant, ladies’ Rieker shoes are known for their durability and support. If you want your shoes to stay durable for years to come, choosing Rieker would be the wise choice. 

Final Thoughts 

Shoes are something we wear almost every day, and they go through a lot. Whether you’re commuting to work, going out for fun, or running errands, your shoes need to keep up. By paying attention to the above things–materials, stitching, sole, and overall construction before paying, you can avoid shoes that fall apart and invest in ones that support you longer.