Somehow, my Xiaomi Freetie sneakers have become my primary. My Hokas and Altras have been completely put aside. Hokas because they are old (and not wide enough), Altras because I’m a miserly bastard who is afraid of ruining expensive new toys.
Anyway, according to my logs I began using the Freeties extensively near the end of May. 6.4mi x 53 days = 339mi. Long story short: Freeties are old and the outer soles are significantly worn. The heels have not been worn to the point where the shoes urgently need to be replaced, but it’s close.
When walking around, I find myself catching myself before slipping more and more. And I’m not always so nimble. Two weeks ago, I was strolling down De Anza. As I passed the India Cash & Carry, I decided to make a detour down into the parking lot. The muddy terrain and steep slope was too much for the Freeties to handle. I fell hard smack on my ass.
I did not sustain any life-threatening injuries, but the left cheek of my butt felt sore for over a week. For the time being, I’m going to keep the Freeties, but their error allowance will be low; as soon as they get even more slippery, they are out the door.
Speaking of Freeties, I noticed that they are sold on AliExpress for ~$20. Nowadays, they are mostly branded under Youpin (instead of Xiaomi), but the product is mostly the same. I have enough shoes to last me to the end of 2025, but Freeties could be a good option if the need ever arises.
