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What Shoe Insole is Best for Me?
There are many different reasons to buy shoe insoles. You might be experiencing foot pain and seeking relief; you might be looking for an insole for sports activities, such as running, tennis, or basketball; you may be looking to replace a worn-out pair of insoles that came with your shoes when you bought them. Because there are so many different products available and so many reasons to be shopping, we realize that choosing the right insole for your needs can be a daunting task, especially for first-time shoppers. We want you to know that we're here to help you find what's best for you. This guide has been designed to help point you towards the right products for your needs.
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Top Things to Keep in Mind When Buying a New Insole
There are a few things that you should keep in mind when buying a new insole or orthotic arch support:
- Insole Sizing: The sizing for an insole is usually denoted as a shoe size range. For example, "Men's 9-11" (each manufacturer uses different sizing). For most full-length insoles, this is because the insoles are designed to be trimmed before use (these are called "trim-to-fit" insoles); the insole is manufactured to be used in a range of shoe sizes, and the consumer is expected to trim off any unneeded length from the end of the insole when placing the insole into their footwear. For 3/4-length insoles and other insert pieces (such as ball-of-foot cushions or heel pads), the size range on the product denotes the footwear sizes in which the insoles/inserts can be comfortably used; 3/4-length insoles and inserts are usually not designed to be trimmed in any way. If you are between sizes (you wear a size 9.5 when the insoles are sized "8-9" and "10-11"), you should generally buy the next size up.
- Insole Placement: If you purchase a full-length insole, you will most likely need to remove the existing insole from your shoe before placing your new one. Almost all full-length insoles are meant to completely replace the insole you are currently wearing; only very thin and flat full-length insoles can be comfortably worn in addition to your existing insoles. If you purchase a 3/4-length insole, you will place this insole on top of your existing shoe insole. 3/4-length insoles are meant to be worn along with your existing shoe insole. If you purchase an insert piece, you will place this insert either on top or below your existing shoe insole, depending on the specific item purchased (inserts come with instructions for proper placement).
- Your Foot Arch Type: The arch of one's foot usually conforms to one of three different arch types: 1) neutral or medium arches, 2) low arches, flat feet, or fallen arches, and 3) high arches. Similarly, every insole is designed to work with one or more of these foot arch types. When browsing insoles, you should first identify what your foot arch type is (more on that below), and only browse insoles that are designed to work with that foot arch type. Wearing an insole that is not designed for your arch type will likely be painful! For a video tutorial of how to determine your foot arch type, click here.
- Insole Footbed Type: In general, insoles and orthotic arch supports have one of four different footbed constructions: 1) a rigid orthotic arch support is extremely firm and does not bend, 2) a semi-rigid orthotic arch support is moderately firm and allows for some flex, but not a lot, 3) a cushioned arch support has an arch support that is all cushioning without a rigid support plate, and 4) a flat cushion insole has no support whatsoever. The type of footbed that you need will be heavily dependent on why you are looking for an insole, and you should be sure that you browse products with a footbed type that will suit your needs. We discuss the different footbed types in more detail here.
- Material: The four most common materials from which insoles are made are foam, gel, cork, and leather. Each has their advantages, and the material you choose is largely based on preference. In general, however, foam works best for cushioning, support, and pressure relief; gel works well for shock absorption; cork works well for support and slight cushion; and leather works well for cushion and "feel" (especially when worn with thin socks).
Common Reasons for Buying an Insole & Recommended Products
Below are several of the top reasons we have seen for why our customers are buying insoles, as well as tips for buying an insole best for that reason.
Plantar Fasciitis & Arch Pain
When seeking relief from plantar fasciitis and foot arch pain, you'll want to look for an orthotic arch support with good cushioning. A foam orthotic arch support with either a semi-rigid footbed or rigid footbed works best. For first-time buyers, we recommend trying a semi-rigid orthotic arch support for a good combination of support, flexibility, and comfort. For those who have worn orthotics before and are seeking more aggressive arch support, we recommend choosing a rigid orthotic arch support. If you have room in your shoes, a layer of foam cushioning will help further alleviate pain, otherwise look for low-profile insoles to accommodate tighter-fitting footwear. Visit our Plantar Fasciitis Insoles page for a full list of insoles best for plantar fasciitis and arch pain relief.
Over-Pronation
Pronation is natural and refers to the natural inward roll of the foot when taking a step. Over-pronation deals with the condition of the foot rolling too far inwards when taking a step, which can often lead to instability and foot pain. To correct over-pronation, seek either a semi-rigid or rigid orthotic arch support to help keep the foot aligned and supported at all times. The combination of arch support and heel support that you will find in an orthotic arch support will naturally help to correct over-pronation. For first-time buyers, we suggest a semi-rigid orthotic arch support; for those seeking aggressive arch support, we recommend a rigid orthotic arch support.
Standing
Anyone who spends long periods of time standing typically suffers from foot pain. To prevent this, seek a cushioned arch support, which will help keep the foot gently supported throughout the day and relieve pressure off the foot. Foam insoles work best to alleviate pain from standing. Visit our Insoles for Standing page for a full list of insoles that work best for alleviating pain from standing.
Morton's Neuroma
Morton’s Neuroma is a burning, tingling, or sharp pain felt in the forefoot and is typically caused by a compressed or irritated nerve in the forefoot. If you suffer from Morton’s Neuroma, you will want an insole or insert with a metatarsal pad for your footwear as well as additional forefoot padding to relieve pressure on the irritated nerve. Visit our Morton's Neuroma page for a full list of insoles and inserts for pain relief.
Metatarsalgia & Ball-of-Foot Pain
If you suffer from metatarsalgia or other forefoot pain, you'll want to choose an insole that features a metatarsal pad and plenty of top-coat cushioning. A cushioned arch support tends to be the best option here, but we do offer semi-rigid and rigid arch support options for those seeking more support for their foot. Visit our Metatarsal Insoles page for a full list of insoles best for metatarsalgia and ball-of-foot pain relief.
Hallux Rigidus, Hallux Limitus, & Morton's Toe
To prevent pain and discomfort caused by Hallux Rigidus, Hallux Limitus, or Morton's Toe, you will want to choose a stiff insole to prevent your toes from flexing. The toe-box of almost all shoes are designed to flex while taking a step, so you will want an insole that can prevent this flex as completely as possible. Our Hallux Rigidus & Limitus page have several products designed to be worn under your existing insoles that will prevent your footwear from flexing.
Supination
Supination, or under-pronation, refers to the outward roll of the foot when taking a normal step. The foot is designed to roll inwards slightly during each step ("pronation"), so the outward roll of the foot often leads to pain and discomfort. To prevent supination, seek either a semi-rigid or rigid orthotic arch support to help keep the foot aligned and supported at all times. The combination of arch support and heel support that you will find in an orthotic arch support will naturally help to correct supination by guiding the foot's movement towards natural pronation. For first-time buyers, we suggest a semi-rigid orthotic arch support; for those seeking aggressive arch support, we recommend a rigid orthotic arch support.
Running, Walking, & Shin Splints
Runners, avid walkers, and those suffering from shin splints often need a combination of flexible support and shock absorption in their insoles. For this, seek either a cushioned arch support or a semi-rigid orthotic arch support that is either a full gel construction or features gel padding at the heel and forefoot. Cushioned arch supports and semi-rigid arch supports will allow the flexibility you'll want with an active activity, and the gel padding will absorb impact shock to reduce fatigue on the feet and knees. Our Walking & Running Insoles pages have a number of products to suit these needs.
Diabetes & Arthritis
Those suffering from diabetes and/or arthritis will need an insole that will be gentle on the feet, assist with circulation, and minimize the abuse and shock that the feet naturally suffer every day. Because there are specific requirements to be considered a diabetic or arthritic insole, we would advise you to start browsing on our Diabetic Insoles page for a full list of suitable insoles for these conditions.
Heel Spurs & Heel Pain
If you suffer from heel spurs or other heel pain, you will want to seek an insole with plenty of cushioning and padding at the heel of the foot. There are a wide range of products for this, from full-length insoles to 3/4-length insoles to heel insert pieces. Check out our Heel Spurs and Heel Pain Insoles and Inserts page for a full list of products that will help.
An Overview of the Different Insole Footbed Types
Orthotic Arch Supports
Orthotic arch supports are insoles that feature a rigid or semi-rigid support plate or support platform as part of their design. Orthotic arch supports may also be called "orthotic insoles," "arch supports," or just "orthotics." These insoles are designed to ensure that your foot maintains a healthy, natural form all day long, no matter what activities you engage in. They do this by focusing on two main areas of the foot: the arch, and the heel. Orthotic arch supports are designed with a built-in arch support that will help prevent the over-collapse of the arch as well as a heel cup to cradle the heel of the foot and limit excessive ankle movement. Wearing orthotic arch supports will help eliminate strain on the plantar fascia, the muscle running from heel to forefoot along the bottom of your foot, which in turn will help prevent arch pain and plantar fasciitis. Additionally, orthotic arch supports will help guide your foot in making a natural motion with each step, preventing over-pronation or supination.
A semi-rigid orthotic arch support features a support platform that is somewhat flexible. This is ideal for providing good support for the foot without the arch support feeling "too stiff."
A rigid orthotic arch support features a support platform that is almost completely stiff. This is ideal for those seeking aggressive arch support and not recommended for first-time orthotics users.
Orthotic arch supports typically require a small break-in period before you wear them all the time. If you have never worn an orthotic arch support before, we recommend only wearing your orthotic arch supports for 1 to 2 hours a day for the first week, then 3-4 hours a day for the next week. It is natural for orthotic arch supports to be uncomfortable at first, but breaking in the insoles over time will help minimize discomfort. After several weeks, if the arch supports are still causing discomfort, we may want to consider trying a different insole.
Lastly, it is a common misconception that "softer is better." In some cases, such as when someone spends all day standing but otherwise has no foot conditions, this is true. However, where arch pain is concerned, it is almost always advised that you seek relief with an orthotic arch support. This is because a cushioned arch support or flat cushioned insole will not give your feet enough arch support, and you will continue to experience arch pain.
Cushioned Arch Supports
Cushioned arch supports are insoles that feature a flexible arch support made entirely from cushioned padding rather than a rigid/semi-rigid support platform. Cushioned arch supports may also be called "arch cushions." These insoles are designed to provide some support for the foot while focusing primarily on providing maximum cushioning. This is particularly useful in situations where proper support is desired, but the primary goal of the insole is to provide relief from foot fatigue. Walkers/runners seeking cushioned support tend to prefer cushioned arch supports over orthotic arch supports, and people who spend all day standing but otherwise suffer from no foot conditions benefit most from cushioned arch supports.
Cushioned arch supports still provide support for the feet through a built-in arch support, and many also feature a heel cup for stability. However, in almost all cases, the level of support you will receive from a cushioned arch support is much less than that of an orthotic arch support. If you suffer from arch pain, over-pronation, or supination, we advise that you seek an orthotic arch support instead. If you suffer from foot fatigue or shin splints, or if you have tried a semi-rigid orthotic arch support and found it uncomfortable, a cushioned arch support is the right type of insole for you.
Flat Cushions/Replacement Insoles
Flat cushioned insoles are insoles that feature no arch support whatsoever. They are also called "replacement insoles." These insoles are not designed to provide any foot support, but rather are meant to simply line the bottom of a shoe as a replacement for the sock-liner that comes in factory-new footwear.
Replacement insoles come in many forms, with some offering a cushioned top-coat and others not. Replacement insoles come in foam, leather, wool, cotton, gel, and more materials to suit a wide range of user preferences. Replacement insoles tend to be thinner than all other forms of insoles.
Shoppers who want to replace a worn-out sock liner or switch to a different material for their shoe insoles, but who do not want any foot support, should look at purchasing a replacement insole.
Other Types of Insoles
Athletic & Sports Insoles
Athletic or sports insoles are often more technical in their design than other insoles. These are insoles engineered for the functions of a specific sport/activity and the needs of an individual involved in that activity. For example, runners typically require good heel & forefoot padding as well as a foot support system to assist with their heel-to-toe (gait) movement. Cyclists require a stiff and compact insole that will work in tight-fitting footwear. Skiers, snowboarders, and other winter sports activities require an insole that promotes heat retention and which will be comfortable in bulky footwear. Hockey & ice skaters need an insole designed specifically to fit into their skates. To browse insoles by activity, start at our Insoles by Activity page.
Gel Insoles
Gel insoles are best known for their excellent shock absorption properties. While gel tends to be heavier than other insole materials, those who perform high-impact activities such as running, walking, and court sports tend to prefer insoles featuring a gel construction or gel padding. This is because the gel will absorb much of the impact shock from these activities, helping decrease foot fatigue and increase energy return. Visit our Gel Insoles page to see our full selection of gel insoles.
Warm & Wool Insoles
Wool insoles are loved for their insulation properties. These insoles will help regulate and maintain the temperature of your feet, whether in the hot or cold. Wool insoles will help keep feet cool during the summer, and many golf enthusiasts enjoy using wool insoles in their golf shoes. Wool insoles will also help keep feet warm in the winter, and make great additions to hiking boots and casual shoes. Similarly, warm insoles are designed to keep feet... well... warm. Many wool insoles are also considered "warm insoles" despite wool insoles being usable year-round. In addition, however, warm insoles include heated insoles that will keep feet toasty in even the coldest weather conditions. Check out our Wool Insoles page for a selection of products to suit those needs.
Heat-moldable Insoles
All insoles will conform to your foot over time as you wear them. Heat-moldable insoles, however, are designed to speed up this process. By heating the insoles for a short time in the oven and then standing on the insoles while they cool, you are able to mold the insoles to your unique foot shape instantly. Anyone desiring a truly customized fit as quickly as possible should consider purchasing a heat-moldable insole. A full list of our heat-moldable insoles can be found on our Heat Moldable Insoles page.
Heavy Duty Insoles
If you work in the construction or industrial fields, you need an insole that can stand up to the rugged conditions of your job. Heavy duty insoles are designed to do just that. Our Construction Insoles page has a full list of heavy-duty insoles to meet your needs.
Memory Foam Insoles
Memory foam is incredibly soft and helps retain the shape of your foot over time. As such, it's popular with those seeking a soft layer of cushioning with their insoles. Visit our Memory Foam Insoles page to see our selection of memory foam insoles.
High Heel Insoles
Wearing high heels can be a painful task, and it's not easy to find an insole that will work in most high-heeled footwear. For a selection of slender, low-profile inserts that work for high heels, visit our Dresswear page.
Kid's Insoles
Kid's insoles are specifically designed to support a child's foot, and are offered in a full range of orthotic and cushioned options. We have a full list of child-suitable insoles on our Kid's Insoles page.
Orthotic Sandals & Footwear
We offer a wide variety of sandals, slippers, shoes, and slides that feature built-in orthotic support. This is useful for situations when you either do not want to use your removeable insole (such as when wearing sandals at the beach) or when you cannot use your removeable insole (such as in dress shoes, which often do not come with a removeable insole). Orthotic footwear allows you to maintain proper foot support without the hassle of needing to switch your insoles to each new shoe you wear. Be sure to check out our Orthotic Footwear page for a full product lineup.
Additional Resources
Video tutorials:
Blog articles:
- How Do I Care for My Insoles?
- Plantar Fasciitis: The Most Common Heel Pain of the Foot
- Forefoot Pain: Prevention and Treatment
- Work Insoles: No More Tired Feet or Foot Pain
- Kids Insoles: Arch Supports and Cushion Inserts for all Foot Care Needs
- Hallux Limitus / Hallux Rigidus: How to Treat for Pain Relief
- High Arch Insoles - Seeking the Best Arch Support for Your High Arches
Useful links: