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13 Best Insoles For Flat Feet – (Reviews & Guide 2022)

If you feel that your flat feet are bothering you, but you don’t want to change your entire shoes, the best insoles for flat feet can help. They come in all sorts of shapes, and various types as well.

So, if you’ve finally decided to tackle these issues, and make your footwear comfy again, we suggest you stick around and read about the easiest ways to do it. Having flat feet can go unnoticed for several years, even decades, but it is bound to start bothering you eventually.

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Who Needs to Use Insoles for Flat Feet?

Getting a pair of arch support insoles for flat feet can be a game-changer. Some people experience the results and pain alleviation in the first few hours after putting the insoles into their shoes. So, if you are looking for a way to help your feet in defeating overpronation or some other anatomical hindrance caused by fallen arches, you should consider getting flat feet support in the form of new insoles. Keep in mind that these orthotic support devices are not designed to fix your flat feet permanently, but to help your feet stability while you walk, run, or do high-impact sports.

On the other hand, insoles for flat feet can be a good idea for people that already have some sort of footwear for fallen arches with removable insoles. For example, top-rated dress shoes for flat feet can sometimes have insoles that are too rigid, but the overall anatomy of the shoes is impeccable. If this is the case, you can keep the shoes, and replace the inserts with a fresh pair of insoles for flat feet. People who wear shoes during those long work hours tend to wear and tear the insoles faster than the shoes actually get worn out. So, why throw out a perfectly fine pair of shoes if all you have to do is put some new insoles in and get that much-needed arch support again.

We would like to stress out that these insoles are not meant to be used by children under 13. Flat feet are a common occurrence with young children, and teens. This condition, in most cases, fixes itself once the body starts developing during the formative years. So, making our youngest wear flat feet footwear should only be done with the consult of a pediatrician or a podiatrist.

Best Insoles For Flat Feet Comparison Chart

PRODUCTDETAILS
Walk-Hero Flat Feet Insoles Arch Supports Orthotics

Walk-Hero Flat Feet Insoles Arch Supports Orthotics

  • Price: $
  • Customer Rating: 4.3
  • Main Material: EVA
  • Size: Fit
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Nazaroo Arch Support Inserts Orthotic Insoles for Flat Feet

Nazaroo Arch Support Inserts Orthotic Insoles for Flat Feet

  • Price: $
  • Customer Rating: 4.3
  • Main Material: EVA/Fabric
  • Size: Trim
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Samurai Insoles Instant Relief Orthotics for Flat Feet

Samurai Insoles Instant Relief Orthotics for Flat Feet

  • Price: $$$
  • Customer Rating: 4.1
  • Main Material: EVA/Plastic
  • Size: Fit
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Spenco Total Support Max Shoe Insoles

Spenco Total Support Max Shoe Insoles

  • Price: $$$
  • Customer Rating: 4.3
  • Main Material: Synthetics
  • Size: Fit
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Dr. Scholl’s EXTRA SUPPORT Insoles Reinforced Arch Support

Dr. Scholl’s EXTRA SUPPORT Insoles Reinforced Arch Support

  • Price: $$
  • Customer Rating: 4.4
  • Main Material: GEL/Synthetics
  • Size: Trim
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Powerstep Thin Arch Support Relieves Flat Feet

Powerstep Thin Arch Support Relieves Flat Feet

  • Price: $$
  • Customer Rating: 4.4
  • Main Material: Synthetics/Fabric
  • Size: Fit
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Sof Sole Men's AIRR Orthotic Insole

Sof Sole Men’s AIRR Orthotic Insole

  • Price: $$
  • Customer Rating: 4.1
  • Main Material: Air Nylon
  • Size: Fit
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Best Insoles For Flat Feet Reviews

1. Walk-Hero Flat Feet Insoles Arch Supports Orthotics

Walk-Hero Flat Feet Insoles Arch Supports OrthoticsPeople with flat feet experience all sorts of issues, down from the toes, all the way up to the spine. One such problem is known as the problem of the plantar fascia, aka plantar fasciitis. If you are looking for a pair of insoles to alleviate the pains of flat feet, these Walk-Heroes might just be the right ones for you. They come in only one color, the color blue, but the aesthetics are nothing compared to the features and functionalities they bring along.

Starting from the heel, you can notice that there are some extra materials used, next to the standard layers that make these insoles. The heel has extra stabilization for people that like to participate in sports every once in a while. These insoles provide both cushioning and arch support through the clever utilization of EVA foam. They come in all sizes, and you will not have to cut or trim them.

Pros

  • The deep heel cup provides the stabilization needed by people that tend to overpronate
  • The clever use of EVA foam makes these insoles sturdy and comfy at the same time
  • Between the inner and the outer layer, there is a foot support insert that keeps your foot in place

Cons

  • These insoles for flat feet cannot be trimmed freely, but they do come in all sizes

2. Nazaroo Arch Support Inserts Orthotic Insoles for Flat Feet

Nazaroo Arch Support Inserts Orthotic Insoles for Flat FeetThe Nazaroo insoles for flat feet are made to follow your every step and support your fallen arches along the way. The focus of these insoles is on strong arch support and feet stability, without the rigid nature of orthotics – you can have your arches supported without the necessary period to get used to the insoles (which can sometimes be the case). These particular insoles for flat feet come only in red color.

You will feel a difference as soon as you start using these insoles due to the multi-layer EVA and fabric combination. The insoles are at their highest on the arch part, and you can notice the cupped heel support at the back end of the insoles. The fabric on the top will help with keeping your feet secure and safe when it comes to high-impact movements. It will also prevent the chafing that sometimes occurs with severe overpronation.

Pros

  • An affordable pair of insoles for flat feet with a full-foot support
  • You can cut and trim the insoles to fit them into your shoes perfectly
  • The combination of EVA foam and fabric supports the whole foot

Cons

  • Some users have reported that you should start with insoles one size bigger and trim down to your size

3. Samurai Insoles Instant Relief Orthotics for Flat Feet

Samurai Insoles Instant Relief Orthotics for Flat FeetThis pair of insoles for flat feet has a lot to bring to the table, besides the interesting name. The Samurai insoles combine a classic red look with modern tech, including a total of four layers of support. A lot of people use these orthotic inserts to alleviate the pain caused by tendon inflammation as well. Additionally, they are a bit wider than average, giving you the option to fit them into sport-oriented footwear as well.

When it comes to comfort and support, the four layers (including the insert designed solely for arches) are combined into a super-comfortable pair of insoles. The main material used to make this pair of inserts is, of course, EVA with different-density spots, designed to endure high-impact sports. The strong suit of these insoles for flat feet and pain relief is that they fit really well. The fabric underneath is anti-slip, so the insoles stay firmly attached to the midsole of your shoes.

Pros

  • These insoles for flat feet can be worn by anyone with tendon or arch issues
  • The sizes on these inserts are very well done, with little to no need for additional trimming
  • Cushioning is achieved through extra EVA foam usage

Cons

  • Some people do not benefit from a lot of cushioning and need some time to get used to it

4. Spenco Total Support Max Shoe Insoles

Spenco Total Support Max Shoe InsolesSpenco total support insoles for flat feet will surprise you with their overall design and the comfort they deliver instantaneously. These insoles are a product of modern technology, with the focus on helping with the everyday problems that people with fallen arches experience. We were amazed when we found out that these Spencos are made of 7 parts in total, with each part playing a crucial role in feet stabilization and cushioning.

Speaking of stabilization, on the heel you can find the 3POD modulation system with multi-density impact zones. This system is implemented with the goal of keeping the heel in place, thus preventing overpronation (a common issue caused by flat feet). The forefoot has a metatarsal dome, engineered to spread the pressure evenly across the ball of your foot. All in all, while a bit more expensive, this pair of insoles for flat feet is an excellent piece of equipment for your footwear, no matter the level of activity you participate in.

Pros

  • The insoles are made to be an exact fit, with different sizes available
  • There are seven different parts inside the insole, with each part serving a purpose of stabilization and cushioning
  • For more active users, the ball of the foot is padded to help you run and jump

Cons

  • These particular insoles for flat feet are on the expensive side of things, which they make up in features

5. Dr. Scholl’s EXTRA SUPPORT Insoles Reinforced Arch Support

Dr. Scholl’s EXTRA SUPPORT Insoles Reinforced Arch SupportDr. Scholl’s is a world-renown brand of all sorts of insoles and foot-oriented gear. They know how to keep the feet fresh, comfy, and with this particular pair of insoles, stabilized. The insoles we have here come in only one design when it comes to color – the famous blue and orange Dr. Scholl’s design. Although this pair of insoles can be used by anyone that needs some additional arch support in their shoes, you will be happy to know that these inserts are reinforced – meaning that they can withstand heavier and taller individuals.

The main technology used to make these insoles is the famous GEL tech. The air bubbles inside the gel make the insoles extra-comfy without sacrificing the integrity of the build. The heel is cupped for stability reasons, and the midfoot section has arch support as well. The strong suit of these insoles is their durability – they can last you for a long, long time if you take care of them properly.

Pros

  • Insoles for flat feet adapted to the needs oh taller and heavier individuals as well
  • GEL technology helps with a large portion of shock absorption
  • The insoles have additional holes across the forefoot to help with perspiration and moist control

Cons

  • Some users do not like the fact that these insoles do not feel natural for the first couple of days. It is important to notice that people who use GEL technology for the first time find it weird in the beginning

6. Powerstep Thin Arch Support Relieves Flat Feet

Powerstep Thin Arch Support Relieves Flat FeetThe Powerstep arch support insert is designed mainly for people that spend a lot of time walking or standing in their shoes. These insoles do not have a forefoot, meaning that they will provide the needed support to the heel and the arch only. However, if the foot is positioned correctly using the insoles, even your forefoot and the ball of the foot will benefit from the orthotic inserts.

It is important to note that the Powerstep arch support inserts are not cushioned. They have some shock absorption, by the overall build is semi-rigid. The synthetics and the fabrics used are combined into a moderately cushioned insert. Because we are not talking about full-foot insoles, you will be able to use a single pair with different shoes. Additionally, you can use these inserts atop of your existing insoles if you desire – this will not work in case the existing insoles are too thick.

Pros

  • The anti-microbial fabric delivers a smooth contact with the feet, with a lower risk of chafing and fungal infections
  • You can use these inserts with the pre-existing insoles form the shoes you already own
  • Due to the nature of ¾ insoles like these, you can use the same pair with multiple pairs of shoes

Cons

  • If you are looking for a pair of insoles for flat feet with extra cushioning, this model might not be for you due to their semi-rigid support and moderate cushioning

7. Sof Sole Men’s AIRR Orthotic Insole

Sof Sole Men's AIRR Orthotic InsoleThe Sof soles for men are designed with active men in mind. These insoles are made with different cushioning and stabilization technologies, utilizing the best of GEL tech and modern materials. They pack both the rigidity needed to support your fallen arches and the softness needed to follow you throughout the whole day. The color finish is black, blue, and gray, with the distinctive orange accents on the bottom.

So, what makes these Sofs so great? They pack GEL technology both on the heel (as expected) and on the forefoot, which enables better shock absorption during high-impact activities. The air bubbles in the heel and in the arch remain cool as well, also thanks to the ingenious design and utilization of the GEL. If you have a problem with feet sweating, you might want to consider these insoles and give your skin a break. Inside the insoles, there is a rigid arch insert made of nylon. This insert keeps the integrity of the insoles undamaged, which in return keeps your feet from overpronating.

Pros

  • A pair of insoles designed for active men
  • The reinforced nylon in the arch region will keep the arches in check and the ankles from overpronating
  • The GEL technology is used both in the heel and the ball of the foot for extra comfort

Cons

  • The GEL technology may feel unordinary if you are using it for the first time

8. WalkFit Platinum Foot Flat Feet Arch Support Insoles

WalkFit Platinum Foot Flat Feet Arch Support InsolesSome people do not need a full-sized insole to keep their arches elevated and ankles straight. These inserts from WalkFit will provide all the necessary support your heels and arches need, without all the bells and whistles. But do not let the simple design fool you, because these inserts certainly have a lot to provide. They come only in the silver and platinum color combination, but the subtle design will make them invisible in most shoes.

The somewhat unique feature on these insoles is the ability to change the arch support type. You get to swap out the customizable arch inserts, with three main inserts provided: low, medium, and high. This means that you will be able to fully adapt the insoles to the shoes you are combining them with. Yes, the same pair of these insoles can be used with multiple pairs of shoes. The heel utilizes the GEL technology to keep the foot in place and prevent overpronation.

Pros

  • A fully customizable pair of insoles for flat feet that comes with a low, mid, and high arch insert
  • You also get a pair of massage inserts for the arch slot
  • The heel has extra cushioning made with GEL technology

Cons

  • Because there is a large number of pieces to keep track off, you will have to dedicate a box to keep the inserts you are not using in

9. Footminders Comfort Orthotic Support Insoles for Flat Feet

Footminders Comfort Orthotic Support Insoles for Flat FeetThe Fottminders insole for flat feet has the design and looks of a sports sole, and the customizability of an ordinary one. A lot of people lie to make crop the insole to match their feet adequately, and you get that feature with this pair, as long as you are careful with cutting them. The overall design is black and blue, with a logo on the heel.

What makes these insoles great is the clever use of EVA foam on the heel and on the forefoot. You will be surprised to hear that the forefoot cushioning does not include the ball of the foot only, but a portion of the toe box and the midfoot as well. Down the middle, you can find the lightly rigid arch support that isn’t too hard nor too soft. These insoles also pack a high angle stability feature that helps with keeping your feet straight and not in a pronated position.

Pros

  • A pair of insoles for flat feet that can be combined with all types of footwear, from dress shoes to work boots
  • Additional cushioning is provided by the EVA in the heel and a large section in the forefoot
  • The insoles also have high ankle stability support that prevents overpronation

Cons

  • The material is less breathable (due to durability), so make sure to wear a nice, cotton pair of socks

10. Pedag VIVA SPORT Orthotic Inserts

Pedag VIVA SPORT Orthotic InsertsSometimes, comfort is not the only thing you should be looking for. In some cases, a bit of comfort is sacrificed for a lot of stability and functionality. Such is the case with these VIVA SPORT insoles for flat feet from Pedag. Now, we are not saying that they are uncomfortable, to begin with. Instead, we want to stress out that the main focus of these insoles is arch support and stability. They are made in the color red, with a logo on the heel.

The strong suit of these insoles for flat feet is their ability to absorb a large amount of shock coming from high-impact activities, like sport or jogging. To achieve full stability of the foot, the VIVA SPORT insoles have additional pads in the heel and in the metatarsal area. These inserts will help with keeping your feet stable during walking and during sports. The heel also has additional cushioning to absorb the impact made with the usual gait of a person with flat feet as well.

Pros

  • A high-impact insole for flat feet that prioritizes foot stability over aesthetics
  • The metatarsal and the heel pad will help with keeping your feet straight and stable
  • The contact material is breathable, making the insoles viable even for work boots

Cons

  • Make sure to get the correct size for your shoes because these insoles are not quite suitable for cropping or cutting

11. Physix Gear Sport Orthotic Inserts for Flat Feet

Physix Gear Sport Orthotic Inserts for Flat FeetActive people require active feet support. The Physix insoles for flat feet will provide you with the stability you need, and the cushioning that can help with relieving the painful experiences caused by fallen arches. This particular model of insoles for flat feet is for people that require a slightly less aggressive form of arch support overall. The color finish is a black that fades to red, with a logo on top.

The thin design of these insoles enables you to put them into any type of shoe out there, without the fear of chafing or tight spots occurring. The foot-contact surface is made of anti-microbial fabric, which is excellent if you want to pair these insoles with sports footwear. When it comes to stability features, the heel is cupped, and the arch support, though subtler than average, is in the mid-foot section. These insoles should not be trimmed, so make sure to pick the correct size.

Pros

  • An affordable pair of insoles for flat feet that can be used with any type of shoe
  • The heel cupping and the mid-foot arch support prevent overpronation
  • The combination of EVA and PU creates a good balance between stability and cushioning

Cons

  • The insoles are thin and subtle, so, if you are a heavier individual, their lifespan is somewhat shortened due to the extra weight

12. Jobsite Gel Work Insoles – Trim to Fit

Jobsite Gel Work Insoles - Trim to FitIf you spend a lot of time on your feet throughout the day, this pair of Jobsite insoles for flat feet may pique your interest. They have several stabilization technologies inside, all engineered to help you with the fatigue caused by flat feet and prolonged standing hours. The design is slick and modern, with black and gray as the main color, and some red accents.

The very first thing you can notice is the uniquely knit fabric on the contact side. This fabric is designed with moisture-wicking materials that help your feet skin with sweat. The PU and GEL in the heel and the foot bearing absorb a large chunk of the shock produced by your walking gait. The forefoot has light cushioning, and it can be trimmed to fit your shoe size as well. The arch support works great with the heel support, all with the goal of keeping your foot from overpronation.

Pros

  • A set of insoles for flat feet designed with both comfort and durability
  • The GEL and PU bearing helps spread out the heel pressure more evenly
  • These insoles are great if you have issues with feet sweating often thanks to the materials used for the contact surface

Cons

  • The trim-to-fit system will require you to be very careful while cutting

13. Icebug Slim Low Volume Insole with Arch Flex Technology

Icebug Slim Low Volume Insole with Arch Flex TechnologyRight off the bat, you can see the modern approach of the Icebug insoles for flat feet. They are black and yellow with modern designs all over. But, do not let the informal aesthetics fools you, because these insoles bring a lot to the table, both in the stability and cushioning areas. Additionally, you can get them in three different arch types – high, mid, and low arch. This allows you to furtherly adapt them to your feet, besides the shoe size, of course.

Under the heel, there is a double-arc design that cups the foot and prevents it from overpronating, all the while relieving pain and discomfort from injuries, like plantar fasciitis. The flex technology used to make these insoles combines nylon and rubber to achieve stability with overall low volume. The heel and the arch of the foot have a strengthened layer underneath, while the forefoot has extra holes to provide better perspiration.

Pros

  • A pair of insoles for flat feet that comes with a modern design and quality features
  • Extra-strong (cupped) heel, midfoot, and arch area
  • You can choose between three different arch support types – low, mid, and high arch

Cons

  • These insoles for flat feet come with a heftier price, which they make up in performance

Issues Flat Feet Can Cause

Best Insoles For Flat FeetSome people go through their whole life walking on flat feet without even knowing it. It is true that you can have fallen arches and suffer little to no consequences. But, if you are an active person, the chances of enjoying sport and not getting any issues caused by flat feet are slim. Because our musculature and biomechanical systems are so complex, the problems flat feet can cause vary from person to person. However, the more aggressive and dynamic the activity, the more stress your feet will put on the rest of the body. That is why people who play tennis and high-impact sports should check our tennis shoes for flat feet reviews to help with all that pain and discomfort.

The least stressful and the least severe issue that can occur is ankle tightness. People with flat feet tend to overpronate their feet (overpronation is when ankles cave in), which causes instability of the whole muscle and tendon chains. It is not uncommon that flat-footed people, who start feeling pain or discomfort during (or after) and activity, start experiencing knee pain. If this goes unchecked or uncorrected, hip issues, or in more severe cases, lower back issues may happen. Again, these symptoms and issues vary from person to person.

People who experience milder issues over time are people with a condition called flexible flat feet. This means that the arches remain collapsed while the feet are on the ground, and they appear normal once the feet rise up. High-impact sports are easier to handle if you have flexible flat feet, but the safest bet would be to get some sort of arch support.

More severe issues may happen to people with fully collapsed arches. These people have fallen arches no matter the position the foot is in. With completely flat feet, overpronation is common and it can cause problems with the other parts of the leg, hip, or back, as mentioned above. If this is the case, the collapsed arches need as much support as they can get.

Types of Insoles for Flat Feet

Types of Insoles for Flat FeetEvery insole for flat feet out there has features in common, e.g. arch support. But, going through the most useful and most popular models of insoles for flat feet, we have noticed that two different types appear, both designed for people with flat feet, but with some distinctive core designs.

1. Full-foot Insole for Flat Feet

When you think of an insole, no matter if it is for flat feet or not, the chances are that you are thinking about a full-foot insole. This type of insert is designed to cover more than one critical spot (i.e. fallen arches) and deliver support for the whole foot. For example, a large number of top-rated running shoes for flat feet will have some sort of full-foot insole as a default. Insoles that cover the whole surface of the shoe provide arch and heel support, yes, but they have something distinctive, and that is none other than – ball of the foot support.

Runners know this best – if your ball off the foot takes too much pressure, your whole gait will fail, resulting in painful experiences. That is why full-foot insoles for flat feet have an extra layer of material that provides shock absorption for the whole foot. Most commonly, this type of insoles goes into wider shoes, but truth be told, a lot of models nowadays offer the feature to trim them down and customize them according to the shape of your foot.

2. Flat Feet Insoles for Arch Support Only

The other type of insoles for flat feet is the arch support insert. These insoles look like you took a regular one and cut off the forefoot part. They are often sturdier and bulkier, with an overall design that tends to focus on the arches only. Inserts like these are made for people that have to stand for long periods of time or need to walk a lot throughout the day. So, sports and activities are out of the picture, for the most part. But, nurses, waiters, post office workers, these people benefit the most from an insole like this one.

One more useful application for inserts that do not cover the whole foot is in work boots for flat feet that have removable insoles. Work boots are all about safety and stability, and with fully supported heels and arches, you will be able to work those long hours without putting extra strain on your ankles, knees, hips, or back.

Insoles for Flat Feet Buying Guide

Insoles for Flat Feet Buying GuideSo far, we have covered the basics when it comes to insoles for flat feet. Now, it is time to get into the practical knowledge you can utilize to pick the most fitting pair for your shoes. We invite you to use this guide to create your own checklist of the features you need because being comfy in your shoes should be a priority. Take your time and choose wisely. Let’s dive right into it.

1. Shoe Type and Usage

Firstly, it would be best to determine which shoes will these insoles go in. Even though you can use the same pair of insoles for flat feet in different shoes, we strongly advise against this practice. Why? Most insoles will adapt to the shape of your foot, and the shape of the midsole of the shoe you pair it with. If you decide to transfer the same pair of insoles for flat feet, you risk ruining the arch support, as well as wearing and tearing the insoles much, much faster.

So, if you are aiming to equip a pair of work boots with a pair of insoles for flat feet, it would be a good idea to take a more comfortable model of insoles. If you want to use the insoles with running shoes, go with a pair that has more shock-absorption. For high-impact sports, you will most definitely need heel support. All in all, try to match the type of shoes or boots you wear with the comfort level that insoles deliver. The next couple of topics will get you closer to knowing how to make this decision.

2. Insole Type You Need

In a section above, we mentioned two main types of insoles for flat feet – full-foot and arch support type without the forefoot cushioning. So, to make the best decision on which type you need, you will have to consider the usage, and to some extent the shoes, again. These factors have their exemptions, of course, and the work of your podiatrist is the law. Here’s how to decide:

2.1. Dynamic

If you plan to use the insoles with a dynamic pair of shoes, like tennis shoes, running shoes, some hiking shoes, or even some dress shoes, you should go with a full-foot type. This type will help you with cushioning and shock-absorption, and ultimately make your shoes or boots comfier while you move.

2.2. Static

On the other hand, if walking and standing are going to be the activity you’re going for, maybe you should think about getting a pair of insoles for flat feet without the forefoot. Now, the shape of the shoe may also be a limiting factor, just keep in mind that the insoles without the forefoot part do not go well with high-impact activities.

3. Materials Used

Most insoles for flat feet will have at least one of the popular materials inside. However, there are benefits to using several materials of different density, or even the same material, like EVA, with multiple levels of density.

3.1. EVA

Ethyl-Vinyl-Acetate is a type of material used in a large number of sports shoes, work boots, and some dress shoes out there. EVA can be designed to have multiple density spots in the same model of insoles for flat feet. This material also provides extra cushioning for those extra tired feet. However, the downside of EVA is that it compresses over time, so, if you are packing a few extra pounds, their lifespan will somewhat shorten.

3.2. GEL technology

GEL technology is used by a large number of running shoe manufacturers. This material is durable and comfortable, although not as comfy as EVA. On the other hand, GEL can withstand more pressure and force caused by your weight, which roughly translates to a longer lifespan. GEL is aimed more towards people who need to be on their feet for long periods of time throughout the day.

3.3. Fabric

Fabrics are most often used as a finish layer on an insole for flat feet, aka the layer your foot will be touching. If you have issues with excessive feet sweating, next to a trusty old pair of socks for sweaty feet, you should aim for a pair of insoles with anti-microbial fabric on top.

3.4. Rubber and hard plastic

Lastly, some people need a little extra arch support. People who overpronate and, have a more severe degree of flat feet, need a rigid type of support under those fallen arches. If you do opt for a pair of insoles for flat feet with more rigid arch support, make sure to get a model that has at least some soft fabric on top, because, truth be told, these are not as comfy as GEL or EVA insoles.

4. Stabilization and Shock-absorption

Stabilization and Shock-absorptionWhen it comes to foot stability, every foot has the center of stability at the heel. The heel is the first contact with the surface for people with flat feet because it is slightly, or sometimes severely, pronated. If that is the case, you should always look for an insole with a heel cup. This cup represents a piece of extra material around the heel, usually made of a denser compound. The sole purpose of this cup is to make sure the steps you take start off correctly, without the overpronation.

Heel cups, when combines with proper arch support, can completely change the way you walk, and even the way you sit or stand. By correcting your walking gait, your spine will adjust and correct itself naturally. Remember, these insoles for flat feet are not a remedy, but a helping hand instead.

Now, the shock-absorption aspect varies from insole to insole. Some models achieve greater shock absorption through shape, some through material density, and some through both. Shock-absorbing features are extra-important to people who do sports, or people with a few extra pounds. Pregnant women find insoles with extra shock-absorption extremely helpful in day-to-day operations, like the regular walks.

6. Fitting and Cropping

Finally, we come to the sizing. There are two paths you could take while deciding upon a pair of insoles for flat feet. Either you try to find a correct fit for your shoe size, or you get a large, one-size-fits-all insole that you have to crop and adapt to your foot. Both of these have their ups and downs.

6.1. Exact fit

Going for the correct fit is a good idea for people that do not have wider feet than average, or for sportspeople in general. You will have to measure your feet with a ruler, starting from the heel to the tip of your longest toe, and compare what you discovered to the sizing charts online. You will also have to consider the shoe size of the shoes you will be pairing with the insoles. Also, a quick tip – always use the size of the bigger foot and ensure that you don’t get a pair of insoles that are too small. You do not want the insoles to wiggle inside the shoes.

6.2. Crop and adjust

People that have wider feet, or have a bigger degree of overpronation, could consider a pair of insoles that are cut to fit the shoe. This can be a good option for hiking or working boots as well. The thing is, no foot matches the exact size on the charts. If you usually have trouble with finding a proper fit when you shop for shoes, getting a pair of insoles that can be cut is ideal. This way you decide how comfy the insoles are going to be.

Remember to cut the insoles in smaller increments and check whether they fit multiple times, because – once you cut too much there is no going back.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KjFotxZdC-4

FAQ About Insoles for Flat Feet

1. How do you cut the insole for flat feet to size?

There are several ways you can cut your new pair of insoles for flat feet to size. As we mentioned, you can go and crop bit by bit to match the size of the foot. A large number of insole models will have some sort of guidelines to help you cut to size and to shape. However, if you want to be absolutely sure that the insoles fit, you can utilize the old insoles. Here’s a step by step guide on how to cut your insoles for flat feet to size:

  1. Unpack the new pair of insoles for flat feet and take the old insoles out of the shoes you will be using the new insoles with
  2. Match the heels and the arch curves of the old and the new insoles, with the new insoles under the old ones
  3. Use a sharpie to imprint the outline of the old insole onto the new one
  4. Using a scalpel, or a pair of sharp scissors, start slowly cutting the new insoles to match the outline
  5. Repeat for the other foot

2. Can insoles fix my flat feet?

While insoles for flat feet are helpful in correcting your posture and inhibiting the pain that flat feet cause, they will not permanently fix your fallen arches. These insoles, however, help prevent a whole arrange of problems that flat feet bring along. With proper arch support, you get to walk as if your arches are not as flat. This position in return allows you to run, walk, and stand properly, without the fear of harming your tendons and bones. Unattended flat feet problems can cost you a lot in the future, so it is always a safe choice to talk to your physician and start wearing proper support.

Of course, besides adequate footwear, you can also invest some time (and patience) into exercises for flat feet. These exercises are designed to help you deal with the pain and discomfort that fallen arches cause. Some of the most popular exercises for flat feet are:

  • Towel scrunchies
  • Ball rolls
  • Achilles tendon stretches
  • Walking barefoot over blunt stones (caution is advised)

3. Do you remove the old insoles?

Even though it may seem like a logical thing to do if the old insoles are not all worn out, we advise against this practice. Most insoles for flat feet are designed to function separately, and while stacking multiple insoles may look like a comfier option, somewhere down the line you could make everything worse. First of all, cushioning is ok, but too much cushioning may cost you some foot flexibility and ankle mobility. And, do not get us started on the risk of foot fungus by leaving old insoles between the midsole and the new insole, without ventilation, left to soak up all the sweat and moisture.

Wrap Up

Having flat feet is not a fatal condition, but, if issues develop and we ignore them, fallen arches can cost us a fair portion of mobility and flexibility in all our day-to-day tasks. Not to mention the pain. So, do yourself a favor and pick one of the best insoles for flat feet and start enjoying walks and running again. Regardless of whether you are an active person with 10+ walking hours on a daily basis, or you walk only when you have to, having the proper arch support is paramount! Runners, sportspeople, workers, waiter, teachers, medical staff, the list goes on and on, and flat feet don’t discriminate! It is time to get rid of those pesky pains and tightness.

Lastly, if you want to add something, or asks us a question, feel free to contact us and we will gladly return with the right answer, asap! Stay comfy!

About Allison Wallen

Allison Wallen travels the globe, managing and participating in all sorts of projects. But, with a lifestyle such as hers, a lot travel made a significant impact on her feet, giving her plantar fasciitis. In her search for a suitable remedy, she learned all sorts of tips and tricks. She decided to compile everything into her blog and help people with feet issues.

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