Did you know that close to 30% of the world’s population has flat feet? So, most likely, you are not alone, and some people cope with it just fine. If you are reading this, then it probably means that you have fallen arches, or have flat feet.
If you find that your feet have started aching after you have been standing for many hours, then this means that they probably need to get additional support. In this case, the support will need to be in the form of insoles.
If your feet tend to flatten, orthotic insoles are something you should consider investing in. An insole can provide support to a person with flat feet or fallen arches. Additionally, they also assist you in aligning your joints, as well as reducing fatigue and pain that may come with this problem.
10 Best Insoles For Flat Feet
Given that the levels of flat feet have varying distinctions, you need to move quickly to ensure that the right counteraction measures, e.g., selecting insoles for your daily and running shoes, have been implemented.
Superfeet Green Insoles [Editor’s Choice]
Currently, they are rated as the best insoles for people who have high arches. The insoles provide top-notch absorption, and this is what makes them ideal for people who take part in sports activities, e.g., running.
Pros:
- Their shock absorption is fantastic
- The product has been on the market for more than thirty years
- The insole is comfortable, and ideal for those with high arches
- It offers a sixty-day comfort guarantee
Cons:
- They are a bit expensive
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- You must have roomy shoes
- It may take a while before your feet can adapt.
If you love running, you probably have your own reasons for doing so—though many people claim that they do it in order to meet fellow runners, get some fresh air, and enjoy the unique freedom that the activity provides.
But with time, there is a likelihood that you may start to experience aching feet, which would mean that you have to reduce the amount of time you spend on this activity.
Under normal circumstances, this would mean that you have to drop the activity altogether or start searching for relief options from your podiatrists.
And that is why you ought to try out the superfeet green insoles. Although it may take some time for you to get used to using them, you will soon notice that you are experiencing relief from the fatigue and pain, and are able to go back to your favorite sport.
Orthotics for people with high arches
It is advisable that you first take the time to consult with a podiatrist before choosing an insole for your flat feet.
The podiatrist definitely knows more about feet than you do, and will, therefore, come in handy in advising you on the kind of insoles that you should consider using.
For people with high arches, some of the symptoms that they need to be on the lookout for will include experiencing pain when they are running, walking, or standing.
Although these insoles do work with low arches, they are mainly recommended for those with arches.
They have top-notch absorption thanks to their solid plastic bottom.
If you are a runner, you will definitely need to have these insoles due to the kind of absorption that they provide. The reason why many runners love them is due to their solid plastic bottom.
For an average guy, he or she would probably think that foam or rubber is the ideal choice for this kind of job, but in reality, it is the exact opposite.
Powerstep Original Full Length Orthotic Shoe Insoles
Pros:
Cons:
The insole comes highly recommended for people with flat feet, and who experience pain when running or walking.
It comes with top of the line cushioning, full support offered through the use of a built-in met pad and the built-in metatarsal support that assists in cushioning and spreading the metatarsal heads, and thereby assist in reducing your pain.
Features and design
It is ideal for metatarsalgia and Morton’s Neuroma thanks in part to the ideal blend of cushioning, flexibility, and foot control. Its design has been compressed in a firm, but a highly flexible shell, which also comes with inbuilt heel cradle and foot support.
The design provides the wearer with motion control and foot stability. Additionally, its cushioning is plush and is based on the VCT technology in a bid to provide stability to your feet, regardless of whether you are wearing casual, athletic, or work shoes.
It is an orthotic that is ideal for alleviating and reducing pain that comes with plantar fasciitis, as well as metatarsal pain.
Orthotics for flat feet by Samurai Insoles
Pros:
Cons:
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The insoles have been designed by podiatrists for use by people who happen to have flat feet. Currently, they are being manufactured in an orthotic lab based in the United States.
They mainly function by providing you with an arch, which assists you in control overpronation, and at the same time, reduces the discomfort or pain that you could be experiencing.
The good thing about them is that they come in different sizes to mirror the varying shoe sizes. You, therefore, do not need to start guessing the best insole for your shoes.
Maximum arch support: if you have flat feet, you can rest assured that these insoles will help you get rid of fatigue and soreness. They have been designed by podiatrists and have been used for a few years now.
They assist the wearer in controlling the fatigue and pain that comes with having flat feet. They provide superior arch support that is intended to provide relief from a wide array of foot-related problems.
Affordable: Do you that many insoles currently on sale retail for more than three hundred dollars?
Well, these insoles have been designed to provide you with maximum relief while ensuring that your bank balance is not affected in any way.
Sof Sole Airr Orthotic Full-Length Performance Shoe Insoles
Sof Sole insoles are manufactured by Implus Footcare, a company that is based in Durham, NC. The insoles have been in production since 1991, and slowly becoming a leading brand as far as footwear accessories are concerned.
Pros:
Cons:
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Materials
The outside packaging is well built, and you can tell that a lot of thought has gone into making it impressionable.
Inside the packaging, you will find that the manufacturer has included a guide on what these insoles are intended for; included is also information on the kind of cushioning that is in use and the type of arch support that the insoles have been designed to support.
Its exterior fabric has been made of COOLMAX material. The material is designed to wick out Microban and moisture, the two factors that are responsible for the development of odor-causing bacteria.
In the middle portion, you will find a polyurethane gel whose sole purpose is to ensure that you get to experience maximum comfort.
Fit and functionality
It comes in varying sizes for the different shoes that are on the market. You will notice that the insoles are about ¼ inches thick at the toe and foot regions, and 5/16-inch-thick at the heel section.
Vivesole Orthotics for Plantar Fasciitis
Pros:
- Provide arch support
- Help in relieving heel spurs
- Can be trimmed to get a custom fit for those with small shoes
- Athletes can use them when training or running
Cons:
- No standard fit is available
These insoles from VIVEsole are designed to help you deal with the pain that comes with plantar fasciitis. Podiatrists have designed them for those with flat feet.
Features
The insoles have been created to assist in plantar fasciitis treatment. Each insole comes with a combination of impact cushioning as well as arch support. Additionally, they have been designed in such a way that you are able to combat pain in your feet.
Its fabric is antimicrobial and can repel away the bacteria that causes odor naturally. This means that your feet will remain fresh all day long. Another important feature to note is the fact that all the insoles are designed to be a versatile fit.
This means that they can fit in any dress shoe, boot, or athletic shoe, and can be used by both men and women. If you do not like the way they fit in your shoe, you can always trim out some sections to get a custom fit.
Envelop Full-length Orthotics
Pros:
- Made from antimicrobial material
- You can use them with any type of shoe
- EVA cushioning
- Customized fit
- The insoles can contour based on the shape of your feet
- Helps in stabilizing your foot
- Helps in preventing and relieving pain
- They provide shock absorption
- Comfortable
- Sixty-day money-back guarantee
Cons:
- They have a break-in period
This is yet another excellent option for people that have flat feet. These insoles are not only comfortable, but they also happen to excel in providing shock absorption and reducing the pain felt by an individual when exercising. They also happen to be very affordable.
Features
Dr. Scholl’s insoles for Flat Feet
Pros:
- Comes equipped with shock guard technology that assists in reducing aggravation in the arch joints
- Arch pain gets treated from its source
- You get all-day relief from arch pain
Cons:
- Needs to be replaced every few months
- It does not have a standard fit
These insoles have been designed for use by people who regularly experience arch pain as a result of the stress being placed on their arches.
They come equipped with shock guard technology, which is ideal for treating pain from its source, thereby guaranteeing all-day relief.
Features
The insoles can be used with all types of shoes, be they sneakers, casual shoes, or worker boots. Some of the features you can expect to enjoy include:
Tread Labs Stride Insoles
Pros:
- Antimicrobial properties
- Bouncy cushioning
- Easy to use
- Thirty-day fit guarantee
- Can be used with any shoe without having to make an adjustment
- Replaceable foam pads
Cons:
- Expect to feel the mold cut-off within the first few days
- The first purchase is a bit expensive
The insoles have been available for use since 2009. The insoles are designed to provide you with maximum comfort, alignment, and performance regardless of the activities that you may be taking part in.
Features
The insoles from Tread Labs are different from those manufactured by the other brands. Currently, you find that there is an insole for different sets of activities, e.g., snowboarding or skateboarding. But with these insoles, you can use them in any kind of activity that you choose.
From their design concept, you can note that there are two components to this insole: there are the molded arch support and the foam top. Its foam top is antimicrobial and has been attached via Velcro to reach the molded plastic-based arch support.
There is a lot of technology that has gone into designing its foam top, but the most important thing to note is that this foam top can be replaced. This means that you can change it in case it gets worn out.
This is something that comes in handy for those that would like to make some much-needed savings.
Additionally, you will find that the insoles come with an easy-to-use guide, which will enable you to get to enjoy your preferred arch support (low, mid, or high).
Fleetmat Shoe Inserts
Pros:
- Very sturdy
- Delivers arches that are of the right height
- Provides relief from pain that comes with having flat feet
Cons:
- It often squeaks when you are walking or running
These insoles have been designed to address the issue of overpronation by ensuring that your feet have a medium arch height.
If you have flat feet, they will definitely benefit from the arch created by the insert, as the remaining part of your ankle and feet get to enjoy some much-needed pain relief.
The insert comes with a structured heel cup. The heel cup is essential for reducing stress by supporting and stabilizing your feet.
Features
Effective results: these insoles have been designed to aid in eliminating the pain that comes with having a low arch and is ideal for those that have low arches or suffer from plantar fasciitis. Compared to other insoles, these are much more comfortable and are ideal for the common fold who are unable to stand overarches that are too firm.
Super simple: you can rest assured that these insoles have been manufactured according to orthodox shoe sizes, which means that you will not have to worry about dealing with complicated measurements.
Nazaroo Orthotics for Flat Feet
Pros:
- Affordable
- Fits well
- Can be used by both men and women
- Comfortable
Cons:
- They do not help with arch pain
If you are in the market for insoles that will ensure that your feet remain cool all day, then these should do. The insoles have been made using the good composite material. They also come with antimicrobial treatment to protect from milder and build up.
Features
The insole has been made for people that suffer from plantar fasciitis and those who may have feet that are flat. It can control pronation, which is a common problem for those that are flat-footed.
Its design ensures that there is an adequate distribution of the plantar pressure when a person is engaged in tasks like walking or running.
The fact that this insole is not thick means that you can wear it with any type of shoe that is currently in your closet. Additionally, it comes with an in-built pad that provides your feet with additional comfort.
This is also important in absorbing shock. It is a feature that makes this a good fit for those that are always walking or running on surfaces that are extra hard.
Do running insoles help for people with flat feet?
People with fallen arches and flat feet can still take part in different types of fitness routines, e.g., running. An insole will help you support your feet by assisting your body to lift the feet and create an arch.
But before you go out and start looking at different insoles, you must understand that flat feet are of two different types:
Rigid flat feet
This comes about when there are inflexible bone structures inside your feet. The bone structures will reduce your flexibility, which means that the foot will be forced to remain flat. Medical experts believe that this is the most difficult to deal with.
Additionally, it will call for various preventive measures to be put in place, to ensure that you will not experience pain, or develop an injury when working out.
Flexible flat feet
Many people around the world have this type of flat feet. What the term means is that the feet tendons are flexible and can be seen in the feet, but this will only happen when you raise your feet.
When a person with this type of feet places the feet on a standard surface and body pressure is applied on the feet, the feet tend to flatten out.
Summary of top-rated orthotic inserts for flat feet.
Buying Guide: What to look for in the best insoles for flat feet?
Do you have flat feet? Do you ever leave a footprint when running or walking in the sand? Then you may need to get yourself a good orthotic insole to make your life a little bit more comfortable. The following are some of the things you need to consider when looking for insoles for your shoes:
What is arch support?
A foot arch can be described as the curved part that is found on the inner side of each foot. This arch typically starts below your toes and the ball of your feet and goes all the way to your heels.
The length and width of each arch will normally vary, but the arches on both feet will typically have the same shape and be of the same size. It is usual for the arch to change shape and shift as your body continues to grow.
Therefore, you should note that the curve and size of each arch are likely to shift from the time you are a child, to when you become an adult.
Can you use flat feet insoles to relieve knee pain?
Individuals with back, hip, and knee pain will, from time to time, be informed that they should start using orthotics. Regardless of whether the recommendation has come from a physical therapist, chiropractor, or doctor, it is not unusual for one to wonder whether the orthotics are essential and whether they are a worthy investment.
So, do orthotics assist in relieving knee pain?
To-date the answer is still unclear. Some believe they work, while others claim that the insoles only made the situation worse, and the last group will comprise of those who cannot tell the difference between when they started using them, and the period before that.
When it comes to pain and ache relief, insoles will unfortunately work, but they may not be addressing the source of this pain. When they do work, they may only work for a short duration, but in the end, this may only be a short duration.
Insoles for flat feet do provide pain relief, and you will find that they are doing two things: they change the way your body moves, as well as absorb the force of the foot impact.
Benefits of using insoles
It is usual for people to suffer from pain in the calf muscles, knee joints, or pain in feet. Although some pain may be chronic, there is always the possibility that the pain may be sudden due to an injury that you could have sustained through an accidental injury.
Orthotic insoles are normally recommended for use by physiotherapists and doctors for people who have this kind of pain. So, what are their benefits?
Reduces the pain associated with Achilles Tendonitis
This is a painful alignment of your feet and is common in people who either walk or run too much.
When this occurs, the tendons that connect the calf muscles to your heels are likely to start becoming too painful, and this will, in the end, impact the patient’s movements. However, when you use an insole, you get to reduce this pain to a very large degree.
Cures plantar fasciitis
This is a terrible pain in the heel that comes about when this area is inflamed. The inflammation occurs when the thick fibrous tissues in the heels are inflamed and start spreading over the other surfaces of the feet.
Insoles come in handy in providing relief to the feet, which are this point very painful.
Relaxes tired feet
These insoles provide much-needed relief and comfort to the muscles that are in the feet. By using these insoles, you provide relief to the fatigued muscle tendons and fibers.
Helps to reduce the pain that could be present in other areas of your body
Using orthotic insoles will assist you to cure or do away with pain that could be present in back muscles, backbone, hip regions, and metatarsal joints.
Reduces over-pronation pain
Overpronation can be described as a very painful state of the feet, which comes about when the feet arches start to flatten. The arches will gradually flatten as the extra pressure continues to be placed on the muscles on your feet.
This overexertion of the feet muscles is one of the leading causes of knee pain, ankle sprains, Achilles tendonitis, pain in the ankle joints. When you use these insoles, you get to do away with the problems of having flat arches, ensuring that your body will get to experience less pressure and that no strain will be placed on your ankle joints.
Are there custom insoles for flat feet?
Yes, different brands are today providing custom insoles for all their products. You can choose between the various available insoles to find the right fit for your shoes.
References
- https://www.sofsole.com/product/Airr_Orthotic
- http://feetsavior.com/superfeet-insoles-guide/
