News - Do you choose insoles correctly?

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.

Orthotic Arch Supports

Orthotic arch supports are insoles that feature a rigid or semi-rigid support plate or support platform. Also called ‘orthotic insoles’, ‘arch supports’, or ‘orthotics’ these insoles help ensure your foot maintains a natural and healthy shape throughout the day.
Orthotics support your foot by focusing on the main areas of the foot: the arch and the heel. Orthotics are designed with built-in arch support to prevent the collapse of the arch as well as a heel cup to stabilize your ankle. Orthotics are a great option for preventing plantar fasciitis or arch pain. Additionally they ensure natural foot movement as you walk which can prevent over-pronation or supination.

Cushioned Arch Supports

While orthotics provide rigid or semi-rigid arch support, cushioned arch supports provide flexible arch support made from padded cushioning to your shoes.
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.

Flat Cushions

Flat cushioning insoles provide no arch support at all - however they are still very useful in that they provide a cushioning liner for any shoe. These insoles are not designed to provide support, rather they can be placed in a shoe as a replacement liner, or to add a bit of extra cushioning for your feet. The Spenco classic comfort insole is a perfect example of extra cushioning with no added arch support.

Athletic/Sport Insoles

Athletic or sports insoles are often more specialized and technical than standard insoles - which makes sense, they are engineered for optimal performance. Athletic insoles are designed with specific functions or sports in mind.
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 more arch support and support on the forefoot. And those who partake in snow sports like skiing or snowboarding will need warm insoles that retain heat and cushion their boots. Check out our full list of insoles by activity.

Heavy Duty Insoles

For those who work in construction, service work, or are on their feet all day and need some extra support, heavy duty insoles may be required to provide the support you need. Heavy duty insoles are designed to add reinforced cushioning and support, browse our insoles for work to find a pair that are right for you.

High Heel Insoles

Heels may be stylish, but they can also be painful (and put you at risk of foot injury). As a result, adding slender, low-profile insoles can add support to keep you on your feet and prevent injury when wearing heels. We carry a number of high heel insoles including the Superfeet Easyfit high heel and the Superfeet Everyday high heel.