Burt asks us:
I work for long hours standing and walking on hard concrete floors, and at the end of the day my feet are killing me. I've tried some cheap gel insoles, and while they helped at first, they really didn't help for long. Is there anything better that I can use? Thanks.
Hey Burt! No worries, we can definitely make a few suggestions!
For standing, especially for long periods of time and/or on hard surfaces, you really want two things in an insole: 1) a proper arch support, and 2) plenty of cushioning. See, when you're standing, your body is putting a lot of strain on your feet (specifically, the arches of your feet). Cushioning will help absorb some of that pressure, but the arch support will help distribute the pressure more evenly across the foot. A lot of low-cost over-the-counter insoles offer one but not the other, and while they tend to provide some initial relief, they aren't a great long-term solution.
Instead, let's focus on a few insoles that offer a good combination of support and cushioning:
- PowerStep ComfortLast: The ComfortLast are one of my top recommendations for anyone needing a great combination of support and cushioning. These insoles feature a flexible arch support, but it's by far one of the best flexible supports that I've ever seen in an insole. Further, it has a great combination of cushioning and gel padding, giving your feet great pressure relief and shock absorption all day long.
- New Balance Flex Cushion Insoles: The Flex Cushion insoles are a severely underrated product. Featuring a semi-rigid arch support, a shock-absorbent anti-fatigue base, and plenty of cushioning throughout, these insoles are my personal favorite for everyday wear. They'll provide great support and cushioning throughout your day.
- FORM Memory Foam Insoles: The FORM Memory Foam insoles are another surprise product when it comes to quality and durability. These insoles feature a plush memory foam body that will definitely absorb pressure on the feet, in addition to a flexible arch support that helps ensure good support beyond what just the cushioning provides. These are an extremely good quality insole for their price point, too.
Let us know if you have any questions!
