You probably were born with a flat foot or developed the condition later in life. Walking and running might be challenging for you. People with flat feet suffer a lot of trouble, including pain and unstable foot placement.
Even if the pain is not an issue, having flat feet may affect your long-term convenience. So fixing the problem is always the best option to prevent severe injury in the future. Best insoles for flat feet offer excellent stability and balance under your feet and help you walk and run smoothly.
Insoles provide arch support, extra cushioning, and gait correction if you have flat feet. Insoles are incredibly available, and you can use just one pair with multiple shoes.
However, choosing the correct insole might be a bit challenging. So we have come up with this list. We will guide you throughout the article. We will let you know how to choose and what to look for and help you find the best option.
What Do Flat Feet Mean?
Flat feet are caused by a particular bone structure. It means there is little to no arch under the feet. Having flat feet is more of a genetic issue.
According to a famous orthopedic surgeon Dr. Harrison Moriarty, it happens due to a low declination in the heel bone and wrong alignment in the structure. There might be some other causes, like major injuries or pregnancy.
In most cases, flat feet are not something that you should be worried about. There is no surgical intervention necessary, and it is not a cause of any underlying issues.
However, you might experience pain in the knees and hips or maybe some inflammation in the soles due to ruining or walking for a long period of time.
Why Do You Need Insoles for Flat Feet?
Even though everyone with flat feet isn’t required to use insoles, flat feet might be the cause of other serious medical issues like shin splints, bunions, or calluses. So it is better for you to use insoles to prevent any kind of major condition.
Most orthopedic surgeons demand that flat feet might be the cause of pain in the arch or midfoot because of improper alignment. Flat feet also affect the tendons and the ligaments located inside the foot and make them weaker.
Having flat feet might cause deformity of the joints. The arches become collapse, and the foot grip becomes unstable.
The specialists suggest using insoles to stabilize the arches. A flat foot requires shoes with wide inner space that will be supportive of the feet and make it stable while walking or running.
A perfect insole limits the collapse of the arch and provides correct tilt in the heel area. A proportionate insole provides enough support to the feet and ensures convenience during multiple activities and performances.
5 Best Insoles for Flat Feet
Out of hundreds of brands on the market, we have picked the best 5 for you. We have added a lot of information in detail. Choose your ideal option that fits your desire.
1. Best for Arch-Support- Dr. Scholl’s Stabilizing Support Insole
Dr. Scholl’s Stabilizing Support Insole comes with a motion-control stabilizer that helps your ankle to stay aligned with your heel. The insole is pretty soft compared to other options in our list.
The soft surface provides extra comfort and prevents pain in the joints. The insole not only provides stability and posture but also reduces any discomfort due to extra pressure in the heel.
If you require an insole particularly suitable for arch support, then Dr. Scholl’s Stabilizing Support Insole is a highly recommended one from our list.
These insoles are specially made for taller and heavier people to take extra weight and pressure. They can provide the full support that you need to reduce any kind of pain and discomfort during the running session.
Even though these insoles are primarily made for running purposes, you can wear them while walking or even standing all day. These insoles provide magnificent arch support and a firm grip.
Dr. Scholl’s Stabilizing Support Insole comes in one size. So you have to trim it according to your foot shape.
Point to be noted. This insole provides extensive arch support. So if you are not comfortable with high arches and feel discomfort or pain. We suggest you check out our other recommendations.
The insole also contains a gel base, which makes the surface pretty firm and durable. So if you are looking for something soft, you should check down below.
Pros
- Great for taller and/or heavier folks
- Excellent arch support
- Midsole support and shock absorption
- Firm cushioning
- May reduce back or hip pain
Cons
- May be too firm for some
- Not ideal for forefoot strikers
- Trimming may cause fit issues
- Little Expensive
2. Best for Running- Spenco Rx Orthotic Insole
Whether you want to purchase a shoe for running or jogging, comfort is an essential requirement when it comes to your feet. We have asked many specialists. And according to their judgment, Spenco Rx Orthotic Insole takes second place on our list for its enhanced arch support. Spenco Rx Orthotic Insole is durable and thin.
It provides great arch support to your feet. The structure of the insole was designed by a podiatrist. The insole comes with an EVA footbed which provides moderate support and stabilization to your feet.
Spenco Rx Orthotic Insole is also well-known for its extra cushioning and softness. It also helps to improve the positioning of the feet and reduce excessive pronation.
The insole is designed to provide support during running, hiking, and other activities. It comes in both men’s and women’s sizes and shapes.
Pros
- Comes with great arch support
- Ensures midsole support
- Provides firm cushioning
- Help in reducing back or hip pain
Cons
- Not ideal for forefoot strikers
- Might seem expensive to some buyers
3. Best for Standing All Day- Spenco Total Support Max Shoe Insoles
Spenco Total Support Max Shoe Insole can reach your demand if you are looking for a shoe, particularly for your unprofessional use. The insole is a master to reduce your fatigue and pain due to standing all day.
There are numerous cases when people suffer back and joint pain from standing for a long time. It happens because of the pressure on the bone. This issue may lead to severe health issues later down the line.
Is there a way to reduce or get rid of back pain? Yes, A supportive pair of insoles is able to make all the difference. For those who have to walk or stand all day in their job or daily activities, Spenco Total Support Max Shoe Insole is the best solution we can provide you with.
These insoles are basically designed for the guys who remain standing for a long period of time. The gel base absorbs the shock from harder surfaces and reduces the pressure in your joints. The insole provides moderate arch support and improves your gait and posture.
Spenco Total Support Max Shoe Insoles also contain firm get cushioning to support your feet. The surface is much broader as it was made basically for the folks with bigger feet. So if your feet are smaller than average, you better try the rest of our list.
Pros
- Absorb impact from firm surfaces like concrete
- Decrease pain and fatigue
- Great for anyone who stands or walks for long periods
- Affordable
Cons
- May be too firm for some
- Doesn’t work well for running or exercise
- Wider surface
4. Best Budget Insole- Superfeet Flex
Finding a reliable insole on a limited budget can take time and effort. To reduce your problem, we have brought the best pick to the list. Superfeet Flex Insole is currently booming the market due to its affordability and high-quality features.
This is the only option for people who want both quality and affordability. You can get this insole for only $26 a pair without compromising on quality.
Superfeet Flex is soft and comfortable. They are made of springy and reactive foam, which provides a great amount of cushioning yet keeps the inner portion of the shoe slim.
The insole provides great arch support and ensures gait correction. Even though the insole is a great deal for people with flat feet, it can be equally effective for normal feet due to its convenient shape and structure.
The base gel provides flexibility to the sole and keeps the surface comfortable and soft. However, the cushioning of Superfeet Flex might not seem enough for some individuals.
The insole is basically made for people with narrow feet. So the larger shoes might not be the proper match for it. So if the insole doesn’t fit your feet’ shape and size, please try the next one on our list.
Pros
- Ventilated to prevent moisture
- Affordability & durability
- Comfortable
- Flexible sole works for any activity level
- Stable in shoe
Cons
- Too thin for some
- Minimal shock absorption
5. Best For Correcting Overpronation- Superfeet Unisex Premium Insoles
Last but not least, Superfeet Unisex Premium Blue Insole is one of the best on the market. There are particular reasons behind putting it back at number 5. It is because the top 4 have some unique features that are completely different from other insole brands.
Superfeet Unisex Premium Blue Insole provides excellent shock absorption and stability to your heel. It comes with a remarkable ability to deal with people with flat feet.
These insoles are made with high-density foam to provide extensive cushioning and softness. They are extremely lightweight and thin. The deep heel cup of the insole provides extra cushioning, which helps reduce the pressure and save your feet from the impact of the shock.
This comfortable pair provides exceptional arch and heel support and ensures the bone stays aligned and perfectly placed throughout your activities. The insole helps reduce the stress in your knees and hips and allows pain-free movement.
Superfeet Unisex Premium Blue Insole comes with a unique “U” shaped design that ensures great stability and takes care of the alignment of your feet.
The insole contains breathable memory foam, which keeps the inner portion fry and fresh. The mesh fabrics prevent your feet from sweating and save the shoe from getting stinky.
Pros
- Ventilated to prevent moisture
- Affordability & durability
- Comfortable
- Flexible sole works for any activity level
- Stable in shoe
Cons
- Too thin for some
- Minimal shock absorption
What should you look for in an insole?
There are some criteria you must fulfill in order to purchase a perfect insole for you. There are numerous qualities that an insole should contain to be fit for any particular individual. We have mentioned the most important features to look for in an insole while purchasing.
1. Fit
Many prefabricated insoles come with a one-size-fits-all feature. That means you can buy it no matter what your size is. But there are more things to do. If your shoe is smaller in size then you have to cut off the insole a bit to adjust the size.
But if you cut off more than necessary, the insole will not fit the shoe and your feet will not be stable while walking. And if you cut off less, the insole will remain larger and the inner surface of the shoe will not be supportive for your feet.
There will be a squeaking noise every time you take a step. So it is better to find an ideal size that fits your shoe and you will be ready to go.
2. Material
Many shoe and insole companies use various types of materials including injection molded plastics, ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA), memory foam, thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), and more.
Ethylene-vinyl acetate is a kind of cell foam famous for its shock absorption, durability, and flexibility. There are many insole manufacturing companies that use EVA in multiple places of the insole to increase the quality level.
The EVA is used in the bottom layers and heel areas. Thermoplastic polyurethane, shortly known as TPU is extremely firm and contains high rebound capacity.
3. Activity-Specific
See if the insole is perfectly suitable for your specific activity. There are many shoes and insoles that are randomly being sold on the market and are not made for any specific activity. They come with a one-fit-for-all feature.
It will be a completely wrong idea to purchase one of those. Running shoes have different features and specifications than other shoes. So buy yourself a shoe that matches your specific type of purpose.
And purchase an insole that fits both the surface of the shoe and your feet. You must feel comfortable while using the insole. If you feel a little bit of discomfort or pain during or after the running session, that means the insole is not an ideal option for you.
You better change. Remember, it is very important to find an ideal match.
4. Cushioning
Cushioning is one of the most important parts to concentrate on during purchasing an insole. The cushion should contain the proper shock absorption capability to save your feet from any kind of injury or pain.
Basically, cushioned insoles are made of foam or gel in the base. It depends on your personal preference regarding which type of insole you want to get for yourself.
Just keep in mind that some insole is not featured with cushioning. We don’t suggest them at all. Having cushion in insoles are like a tradition for people with flat feet. This is a must-needed feature that every insole must carry.
Without cushioning, the insole can not provide enough softness and comfort which are the basic requirement for flat feet.
Conclusion
We hope you liked our list. We made this keeping everyone’s desires in the head. There are a lot of insoles on the market. Each of them contains different qualities and features. Particular insoles are designed to deal with the respective type of flat feet. However, all these five insoles will fill up all the requirements no matter what type of flat feet you have.
Having flat feet is not a big issue or anything to worry about. We mentioned at the very beginning of this article. Insoles are always available to support you on your journey. All you have to do is to choose the ideal insole that matches your feet.
FAQ
Do insoles work for flat feet?
Yes, good-quality insoles will keep your heel bone aligned and reduce bone pressure. Some insoles are able to absorb the shock from harder steps and save your feet from major injuries.
Can insoles correct flat feet?
Sadly, no. Insoles are not made to correct the flat feet but to support them. Insoles will keep your midfoot elevated and provide you with some outstanding convenience to complete your daily activities without having any difficulties.
Which are the best insoles for flat feet?
There are numerous brands that come up with various structures of insoles that contain multiple features. Each of these insoles is designed to deal with particular issues. It depends on your personal preference which one will suit your requirements.
Michel's passion for shoes and flowers is evident in his acclaimed "Shoe Fleur" photography series, which features shoes transformed into stunning floral arrangements. His work has been exhibited in galleries and museums around the world, including the International Center of Photography in New York City and the Maison Européenne de la Photographie in Paris.
Sarah Zane is a talented content writer who specializes in the fashion industry. With years of experience in creating engaging and informative content, Sarah has established herself as an expert in the field of footwear. She currently works at Shoe.com, where she creates compelling articles and product descriptions that help customers make informed purchasing decisions. In her free time, Sarah enjoys exploring new shoe trends and experimenting with different styles. Her passion for fashion is evident in her writing, which is both entertaining and informative. Whether you're looking for the latest sneaker release or tips on how to care for your leather boots, Sarah's expertise is sure to provide valuable insights.
