Do these have a “lifespan?” I’ve had the same pair for about 5 years now. They are at the point where they are cracked and split (although not all the way through that would have them falling apart). Am I better off removing them completely and sticking with “regular” insoles, or would they still provide some benefit?
Hoping for more than “go to see the podiatrist”. I feel like he may have sold me a bill of goods and told me that I absolutely, positively needed orthotics or else I would fall apart. Any downside to continuing to use them in this dilapidated condition?
Orthotics can last 20+ years - it really depends on what they are made from (polypropylene, stainless steel, carbon/graphite, etc.) The topcover (if present) often wears out quickly in athletes (sometimes as fast as 1 year). The real question is why they were made and what you were trying to accomplish with them. Apparently they have “worked” since you have been running in them for a while, but occasionally they are made like a brace (say, you injured your knee, where a brace, then ditch it when/if healed).
Five years is about how long mine lasted. You’re better off not waiting until you must replace them. The symptoms that sent you to the Podiatrist recur. I went through this, earlier this year. Really messed up my training schedule.