Originally Posted by on the path

Do Shoes Have a Useable Lifespan?

I just got, and set up a pair of Lake winter cycling shoes. Today I went out for a short shakedown cruise, mainly to check to see if my cleats were positioned properly. While I don't really know about additional warmth, as today's temps were in the 60s, I immediately noticed the improved power transfer as compared to my 5+ year old Mavics. The Mavics have well over 20,000 miles on them. In my hands the sole flexes quite a lot, especially compared to the new Lakes.

So, do we think that the Mavic shoes have worn and broken down and have otherwise lost stiffness, or are the Lakes just that much stiffer to begin with? All internets opinionz welcome..