Arch Inserts

What are arch inserts?

Unlike arch support insoles, which provide arch support via a full-length insole or ¾-length insole, arch inserts are standalone arch support pieces, often with an adhesive backing, that can be added to any shoe or insole to provide some additional arch support.

How do arch insert pieces work?

Arch insert pieces are often sold as a pair, but be sure to check the product details to be certain; you’ll definitely want a pair to ensure that you have the same level of support in both of your shoes.

Arch insert pieces have an adhesive back that allows the piece to be adhered to your existing shoes or insoles. This adhesive is covered when you first take them out of the box, not only to ensure that the adhesive doesn’t dry out, but also to ensure that you’re able to find the correct placement for the insert before adhering them.

To fit to an existing pair of insoles, ensure that the midfoot of the insole is flat (insert pieces won’t adhere to curved surfaces well). Remove the insoles from your shoes if possible and place them on a flat surface that you’ll be able to stand on. Then, without removing the adhesive cover, place the arch support insole atop the insoles. Stand on the insoles to see if the arch insert is in the right place (see what feels the most comfortable to you), and adjust as necessary. Once you have the correct placement, simply adhere the inserts to the insoles and return them to your shoes.

The process is similar for shoes without removable insoles, including sandals. Simply find the correct placement, based on what is most comfortable to you, before you remove the adhesive covers. Then, once you have the correct placement, remove the adhesive cover and adhere the inserts to your shoes.

Do arch support inserts work as well as arch support insoles?

In our opinion, no. An arch support insole is designed to integrate the arch support with the heel and forefoot in one cohesive design, making it much more effective in terms of providing proper support and alignment for the foot. While an arch support insert piece is handy for providing a little extra support, especially in shoes where a traditional arch support insole might not work, we typically recommend an arch support insole over a standalone arch insert piece.