Expert: - 9/23/2009

Question
How often should bowling shoes be replaced, either privately or rental shoes? Are there any signs that they need replacing?

Answer
Anna,
You've posed a very broad question, so please don't take my answer the wrong way.

Shoes to tight, pain bad, get new ones.

Shoes too big, sloppy or ill fitted don't help much, get new ones.

Uppers falling apart, the shoe needs to be secure to be effective, if stitching/seams are splitting, trash'em.

If uppers are OK, maintenance of the soles can help them work optimally for users (both yours and rentals). Rental shoe soles and heels need maintenance. They get more use (hopefully) than the average bowlers personal shoes.

Thanks for the question. Do you work at a center that you ask about rentals? Good bowling.