Which insole is right for me?

There are many benefits of wearing shoe inserts. Maybe you chose insoles for flat feet or orthopaedic insoles. They can help with a range of conditions and foot issues, likerelieving pain or preventing a condition from worsening.

Flat feet, often referred to as fallen arches, are common and aren't something to worry about. If your flat feet are causing you issues then flat foot insoles are a good idea to try. Insoles for fallen arches can help relieve pain.

There are also inserts available for other conditions. Insoles for plantar fasciitis are incredibly popular. If you have plantar fasciitis, arch support is important. Insoles for arch support help to evenly distribute pressure.

There are different styles of inserts. Some people will benefit from gel insoles whereas others might find memory foam foot inserts work for them. Sometimes people will select an insole for a better fit or to change the size of their shoe, but do insoles make shoes smaller?

We will talk you through all of the different options to help you make a decision on the right insole.

Foot size and shape - flat and fallen arches

Why does this affect what insoles I should buy?

Knowing the measurements of your feet is important when it comes to selecting shoe inserts. Your shoe size is also important as your insoles must fit into your pair of shoes.

The shape of your foot also needs to be taken into consideration when you are selecting the perfect insole. You should be matching your insole to your arch type. Wearing the wrong insole for the shape of your foot can lead to foot problems and potential injury.

Insoles for flat feet

There are a wide range of inserts available for flat feet. Before you purchase your insoles you must identify what type of flat feet you have.

Rigid flat feet

They are flat when you stand on them and also when your feet are unweighted. For comfort and support a low arch height is preferred.

Flexible flat feet

They are flat when you stand on them but have an arch when they are unweighted. For support and comfort a medium arch height is usually the best choice.

Inserts for flat feet can help to reduce the fatigue you feel when walking or standing for a long period of time. They also help to reduce pain as the insole supports the arch. Wearing a flatfoot insole can also restore balance and prevent further complications.

Insoles with arch support

An arch support goes into your shoes to help support the arches of your feet. They are important when it comes to helping you keep a good posture and maintain a healthy lifestyle.

They help to distribute pressure in your feet. The arch supports put some of the pressure into the arches of your feet instead of leaving all of the pressure in the heel or ball of the foot.

An arch support has the ability to support other parts of your body including the knee, hip and back.

Orthotic insoles that provide you with arch support can help if you struggle with plantar fasciitis. Plantar fasciitis is caused by high arches, that is why it is important to get the correct arch support.

What are the different types of insoles and orthotics?

Memory foam shoe inserts

Memory foam shoe inserts are well known for providing support and brilliant pressure relief. They make your shoes more comfortable instantly. They are great if you are always on your feet, increasing your efficiency.

They provide you with shock absorption, improving stability alongside easing foot and heel pain. They can also help to relieve any pain or pressure that is caused by spurs, achilles tendonitis, neuroma, corns and verrucas.

Half insoles

Half insoles are created to fit inside a shoe that doesn’t have a removable insert. They are usually used in boots, dress shoes and high heels.

Gel insoles

Gel insoles are the perfect choice when it comes to high intensity exercise. They are shock absorbing which helps with the impact stress.

Heel cups

Heel cups are specifically designed to treat heel pain that is usually caused by foot problems such as plantar fasciitis or heel spurs.

They are small and discreet in comparison to full length insoles, making them easy to fit inside your shoe.

Metatarsal pads

Metatarsal pads are shoe inserts that support your metatarsals and prevent them from becoming cramped.

They make sure that the pressure in your feet is evenly distributed and to prevent your feet from absorbing any excess stress.

Will the shape and style of my shoe determine what insoles I should buy?

You must think about the type of shoes you are going to put your insoles in. If you don’t get the right insole for the shoes you are wearing then this will lead to a poor fit. A poor fit can cause you further issues.

Different shoes need different insoles. You need to know what style of shoe you want to put your insoles in before you buy them.

If you are suffering from foot pain or find that you need insoles there are plenty for you to choose from. They will provide you with extra comfort and support for your feet when they need it the most. They will also help to protect you from blisters, corns and other problems.

Selecting the insole you need is different for each person. You must take into consideration the reason you need insoles and the shoes that you are going to wear with the insoles.

Shoe inserts are the perfect way for you to say goodbye to discomfort and hello to happier, healthier feet.