10 best running insoles for shoe inserts

Running insoles, also known as shoe inserts or orthotics, are specialized footbeds that can be placed inside your running shoes to provide additional support, cushioning, and comfort during your runs. They are related to foot health and are commonly used by runners to address various issues and enhance their overall running experience. Here's what you need to know about running insoles:

Types of Running Insoles:
- Cushioning Insoles: These insoles are designed to provide extra cushioning and shock absorption. They are ideal for runners who want to reduce impact on their feet and joints.
- Supportive Insoles: Supportive insoles offer arch support and can help alleviate issues like overpronation (excessive inward rolling of the foot) or supination (insufficient inward rolling of the foot).They promote proper foot alignment and stability.
- Custom Orthotics: Some runners with specific foot conditions or biomechanical problems may benefit from custom-made orthotic insoles. These are typically prescribed by a podiatrist or foot specialist to address individual needs.
Benefits of Running Insoles:
- Improved Comfort: Running insoles can make your shoes more comfortable by providing additional cushioning and support.
- Enhanced Performance: Properly fitted insoles can help improve your running efficiency and reduce the risk of injuries.
- Injury Prevention: Insoles can help prevent or alleviate common running-related injuries such as plantar fasciitis, shin splints, and IT band syndrome.
- Customization: You can choose insoles that match your specific foot type and running style.
Choosing the Right Running Insoles:
- Consider your foot type: Determine whether you have flat feet, high arches, or neutral arches as this will influence the type of insoles you need.
- Seek professional advice: If you have chronic foot issues or are unsure about your foot type, consult with a podiatrist or a specialized shoe store for a professional fitting.
- Try them in your running shoes: Ensure that the insoles fit comfortably in your running shoes and do not cause discomfort or crowding.
Replacing Insoles:
- Running insoles should be replaced periodically. The lifespan of insoles varies depending on the materials used and the amount of use. Typically, it's recommended to replace them every 300-500 miles or when they show signs of wear and compression.
Maintenance:
- To prolong the life of your insoles, remove them from your shoes after each run to allow them to air out and dry.
- If your insoles are washable, follow the manufacturer's cleaning instructions to keep them fresh and odor-free.
Cost: The price of running insoles can vary widely, from affordable off-the-shelf options to more expensive custom-made orthotics. Your budget and specific needs will influence your choice.

In summary, running insoles are valuable accessories for runners looking to enhance comfort, support, and foot health during their runs. Selecting the right insoles and maintaining them properly can contribute to an improved running experience and reduced risk of injuries.

Below you can find our editor's choice of the best running insoles for shoe inserts on the market

Ultimate IT Band Solution: How One Runner Solved the Pain for Good

Based on 4 reviews Check latest price

Superfeet Women's Run Comfort Insoles Carbon Fiber Running Shoe Orthotic Inserts for Support and Cushion

Superfeet

Based on 37 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Runners: personalize your favorite running shoes with new RUN Comfort Max insoles, from Superfeet. Engineered specifically for running, these fresh new insoles deliver maximum comfort while helping to minimize foot fatigue. The Superfeet shape, designed with women's-specific dimensions and delivered via a responsive EVOLYTE carbon fiber cap and AEROSPRING Dual Comfort foam, encourages smooth and efficient energy transfer throughout your gait, from foot strike to toe-off. The result? Exceptional comfort underfoot; extra miles added to your training log.

AEROSPRING Dual Comfort foam
DEEP HEEL CUP: These comfortable insoles cradle the heel for natural cushion and shock absorption
DURABLE CONSTRUCTION: The Superfeet orthotic shoe inserts keep their shape, delivering reliable support and comfort for up to 12 months or 500 miles, whichever comes first
WOMEN'S SPECIFIC DIMENSIONS: Slimmer heel and arch length of these comfortable insoles for women are made to fit the proportions of the female foot
H.I.T. (HEEL IMPACT TECHNOLOGY) POD: These athletic shoe inserts disperses impact for an easier ride
AEROSPRING REBOUND DUAL COMFORT FOAM: Full heel-to-toe soft cushioned insoles offer ultimate comfort in every step

User questions & answers

Question:	How do these compare to the berry Superfeet insoles
Answer:	Every 12 months or 500 miles. They are guaranteed for 60 days. You will love these if you are having foot problems. I was skeptical because they are so thin. They have definitely taken care of my plantar fasciitis. It took a couple of weeks for the pain to stop but I am sold on these!
Question:	Is this as stiff in the arch as the regular berry SuperFeet
Answer:	Thats tricky. When you buy shoes with actual arch support built in them, does it feel like the aech is in the right place for you or does it feel like it is too far forward or backword? I would say if they are always in the right place, order the size 8.5-10. But if they feel like they are too far forward, order the size 6.5-8. My very first pair of superfeet I bought, I had been fitted for in a comfort shoe store in a mall, and the very knowledgeable man who helped me, said my foot measures a size 8, but my arch measures a size 8.5. The next pair I bought, these berry ones, I ordered from Amazon, and I got the size C. After wearing them for nearly 2 years now and thinking these don't provide me nearly as much support as my Vionic flip flops do, I realized that the arch support hits too far back and I should have gotten the next size up, the size 8.5-10. So now I am ordering the next size up in the Superfeet Blueberry (as they are suppose to have the next level up of arch support from the Berry's) and that should solve my problem.
Question:	Is this as stiff in the arch as the regular berry SuperFeet
Answer:	I went to a retailer and tried their sample, and then they did not have the one I needed, so I started ordering them, but knew the size I needed

superfeet Run Comfort Carbon Fiber Inserts, Support and Cushion

Based on 654 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Designed specifically for running, Superfeet RUN Comfort insoles can help runners reduce foot fatigue while gaining efficiency. The Superfeet shoe soles shape personalizes the shoe to your foot. The EVOLyte carbon fiber insert cap and AeroSpring Dual Comfort foam combine to deliver exceptional comfort and smooth and efficient energy transfer through your gait from foot strike to toe off.

AEROSPRING Dual Comfort foam
AEROSPRING REBOUND DUAL COMFORT FOAM: full heel-to-toe cushioning offers ultimate comfort in every step
EVOLYTE CARBON FIBER STABILIZER CAP: responds to compression, springing back to its original shape
DEEP HEEL CUP: cradles the heel for natural cushion and shock absorption
H.I.T. (Heel Impact Technology) Pod: disperses impact for an easier ride
DURABLE CONSTRUCTION: Superfeet insoles keep their shape, delivering reliable support and comfort for up to 12 months or 500 miles, whichever comes first

User questions & answers

Question:	are these good for morton's neuroma on the footbed
Answer:	In most cases, it can be returned for Amazon credit. UPS stores will even package the product for you and automatically credit your Amazon account.
Question:	Are these good for low arches? Asking for a friend
Answer:	Hello. This is 1.2mm carbon fiber. It bends, but you need strong men's hands to bend it like in the picture. The point was to show customers that it is not like metal and not 100% rigid "plate". It flexes but not extremely when you use them in everyday ordinary condition. The point of this insole is that you will have support inside of your shoe. That your shoes will not bend or flex so much. Carbon fiber is actually user-friendlier material than metal or any other different plastics. It is a new way to make insoles. Ben
Question:	Do these insoles shred/excessively cause sock wear? my new balance nd420 destroyed a $25/pair smartwool phd socks-do not want to lose another pair
Answer:	This goes under your shoe's insole and it is rigid, so there is no breaking it in. I had no problem adapting to wearing it right away, and kept it on all day. But in the cold, I found I couldn't wear it because my whole foot got a lot colder. I resorted to stiffer boots to keep my foot from bending.
Question:	Is there any difference between these and the Superfeet Hiking insoles, other than color
Answer:	A stainless steel collar is less likely to rust. Chromium and nickel are present throughout stainless steel, not just on the surface. Because of this, the microscopic layer will form itself anew, even when the steel is cut or scratched. There are many reasons of the discoloration of your dog’s fur. One of the reasons is the dog’s allergy to nickel. Stainless steel is not likely to stain light fur, but is not suitable for nickel-reactive dogs as it contains nickel. However, the collar may stain dog’s fur without any apparent reason.

Powerstep Pinnacle

Powerstep Insoles

Based on 9 reviews Check latest price

Anti-microbial
Made in the USA
EVA Foam sole
MAXIMUM CUSHIONING: A durable EVA foam base and plush top layer, paired with our Variable Cushioning Technology, provide a dual layer of targeted and controlled cushioning, enhancing comfort in your shoes.
SEMI-RIGID ARCH SUPPORT: Firm yet flexible arch support and deep heel cradle increase foot support and stability – providing greater motion control while walking or running.
ANTI-MICROBIAL TOP FABRIC: Heat and friction reducing fabric helps feet stay cool, dry, and odor-free during strenuous activity – keeping your feet comfortable, healthier, and blister-free.
FOOT PAIN PREVENTION AND RELIEF: These shoe insoles are the ideal orthotic for pain associated with plantar fasciitis, mild to moderate pronation, metatarsal pain, heel and arch discomfort, flat feet, sore and tired feet, and other common foot conditions.
VERSATILE INSOLE: Supports all arch types – low, neutral, and high arches. The insole also fits a variety of shoe types with removable insoles – athletic, casual, dress, and work shoes or boots.

User questions & answers

Question:	To use these, do I need to buy a size up in my shoes? Looking to use them in trail runners to replace the manufacturer insert
Answer:	If you plan on moving the insoles from shoe to shoe I’d get the smaller size. If not, get the appropriate size for the shoe.
Question:	I have very flat feet and have had plantar fasciitis. Do these insoles have a high arch? What's the arch height
Answer:	These were recommended to me for mild supination. I first bought them at a running shoe store, and have since bought additional pairs on Amazon
Question:	I have overpronation problems and a high arch. Would these insoles or the maxx be the best choice for me
Answer:	I wouldn’t size up as the arch position may be awkward relative to the heel cup and overall length. I’ve used these in 4 generations of Lone Peaks and in Timps and an older Altra road shoe, sized to my men’s 10.5 foot and medium Currexs. Basically I trim nothing from the sides and only trim a blunt line across the front. The resulting inside fit of the toe box is about 95% full. There are some small gaps on the sides but unnoticeable underfoot. The heel and mid foot are perfect.
Question:	Does anyone know if these are as good as Superfeet Orthodics
Answer:	Unless you are knock-kneed with high arches - then get medium according to the chart at the store. If you have high arches with straight or bow-legs then get the high.

Sof Sole Insoles Women's ATHLETE Performance Full-Length Gel Shoe Insert

Sof Sole

Based on 1 reviews Check latest price

Product description

With its neutral arch and design, the Athlete fits naturally in most types of footwear and supports you no matter where the day takes you. Whether you’re a rookie to insoles or a foot care veteran, this all-purpose insole will give your feet and body the energy and support to stay on your feet everyday. Provides increased performance

100% Implus® foam
Imported
Other sole
Sof Sole insoles with neutral arch design to fit most foot types
Gel pads in the heel and forefoot provide cushioning
Hydrologix moisture management treatment keeps feet cool and dry
Perfect for athletic and casual shoes
Ideal for walking, running, cross training, and casual use

User questions & answers

Question:	I am between a women's size 7.5 and an 8. should i get the size 8-11 or 5-7.5? thank you
Answer:	Soft and flexable
Question:	Is the heel of this elevated such that it propels the wearer forward a bit
Answer:	My reco is to buy the Mens. I wear Women's size 7.5. Had seen couple reviews from women recommending the Mens and I agree. Both are thin and flexible; however, the Mens are a bit thicker and work much better. For me, the Women's were too thin and did not offer much pain relief.
Question:	My shoe size is 7, do I go with the 5-7.5 insole size
Answer:	1) Open package 2) Insert one pad in heel area of right shoe 3) Insert one pad in heel area of left shoe 4) Insert your feet into shoes 5) Walk
Question:	What is the heel height
Answer:	Yes sir, I took the soles out of my steel toed boots and replaced them with these. Haven’t had a problem with my feet hurting sense and I’m in the 40-50 hours a week minimum.

Superfeet Unisex ORANGE High Arch Support and Forefoot Cushion Orthotic Shoe Inserts for Anti-fatigue Insole, Orange, 5.5-7 Men 6.5-8 Women US

Superfeet

Based on 377 reviews Check latest price

Product description

SUPERFEET ORANGE insoles were created for the people who want a little more spring under their feet when they go the extra mile. Superfeet re-engineered their insole design to add a resilient, high-impact foam forefoot, while maintaining the unmistakable Superfeet shape and legendary arch support. The result is an insole that can take a pounding so your feet don’t have to. The Superfeet Premium orthotic insoles feature a high-volume heel cup and a full forefoot shock pad for maximum comfort and support. Superfeet's biomechanical shape and design supports and aligns the bones of the foot, helping to prevent heel and pain and stress. Plus the Agion antimicrobial treatment cuts down on odor, and the friction-control top cover helps reduce blistering. Use this insole for athletic and industrial footwear with removable insoles.

AEROSPRING Dual Comfort Foam
Imported
Man Made sole
FIT PROFILE: High profile/High volume insoles; Volume refers to the amount of space these comfortable Superfeet insoles will take up in your shoe, whereas, the Profile is how much shape you can expect to feel under your foot. Full-length Superfeet inserts are supposed to be trimmed to fit in your shoes.
REINFORCED STABILIZER CAP: The base of these Superfeet orthotic shoe inserts supports the rearfoot and provides structure and stability to the foam layer
DEEP HEEL CUPS: These high arch support insoles feature a deep, narrow heel cup that helps support the foot during high-impact activities and long distances
SUPERFEET SHAPE: The signature shape of the arch support shoe insert helps stabilize and support the foot, which can help reduce stress on feet, ankles and knees
HIGH-IMPACT FOAM FOREFOOT: The soft, bouncy foam at forefoot provides great shock absorption during high-impact activities like walking, running, or playing on hard, unforgiving surfaces

User questions & answers

Question:	Would Orange or green be better if I have a narrow heel, but want cushioning so my toes would not be lower than my heel
Answer:	They have selections for men and women
Question:	I have flat feet and plantars fasciitis. Which is better, green or orange
Answer:	I have very flat feet and the associated ankle and foot pain that comes with it. I work 12 hour shifts and can log 15,000-25,000 steps a day. A good pair of boots and Superfeet Orange have made a huge difference in my life. I cannot recommend enough.
Question:	what size is it and is it men's or women's
Answer:	18-gauge heavy duty 3003 aluminum. All this info can be found under "About this item." It's 22" long. Make sure it fits your oven. It did not fit my old oven, but does fit my new oven.
Question:	what is the best Superfeet insole for very flat feet
Answer:	Smallest inside dimension is 20 3/8". Largest inside dimension, at the top where the rims curl is just 21".

PowerStep Pinnacle Maxx Insoles, Angled Heel Post Supports Overpronation, Firm Neutral Arch Inserts

Powerstep Insoles

Based on 8 reviews Check latest price

Product description

A step above the original Pinnacle orthotics, you won't believe the amazing support you'll get with these!
The new arch support design incorporates two features that make the Powerstep™ pinnacle max orthotic arch supports more supportive than any of the other Powerstep models.
First is the formula used that will give more resistance to a collapsing (or over pronated) arch and therefore more support.
The second is the squared heel design which will sit squarely in your shoes and will not roll to either side.
Two cushioning layers. The top layer is made from HyPUR-cel® foam which is bouncy and soft. The bottom layer is a low density EVA foam that has great internal strength and a low compression set. This means it's firm rather than bouncy and maintains great shock absorption properties.
Made of 100% textile materials.
Spot clean with a mild detergent, do not immerse in water, air dry only.

100% Anti Microbial Polyester
Made in the USA
Synthetic sole
Full length total support – Powerstep Pinnacle Maxx orthotic shoe insoles offer total support to prevent and alleviate foot pain. A firmer shell, angled exterior heel platform and deep heel cup provide greater control, stability and foot arch support
Dry comfort – the 100% polyester top fabric keeps your feet comfortable and dry by preventing friction and heat while you go about your day, No matter what shoes you are in
Maximum cushioning – double layer, shock absorbing durable EVA foam base and variable Cushioning Technology) casing provides targeted and controlled cushioning with a soft, supportive feel
For every shoe – maintain arch support wherever you go. Simply transfer the Pinnacle Maxx from one pair of casual, Athletic, dress or work shoes to another with no trimming required. Packaging may vary.
Podiatrist recommended – Powerstep Pinnacle Maxx orthotic shoe insoles are recommended by podiatrists to prevent and alleviate foot pain due to over-pronation, Plantar Fasciitis, hammertoes, bunions, calluses, foot, ankle, arch, knee, heel Pain & More

User questions & answers

Question:	Do these have more padding? than the regular Pinnacle Blues I would like more cushion in the heel
Answer:	They have been my lifesaver. I was already scheduled for pttd surgery. I bought one to start of with, then I bought a second pair. I use them in my sneakers and closed toe shoes. Have someone take a picture from the back barefooted and then place the insoles by themselves on the floor and stand on them and take another picture. You'll see the difference. I can be the complete day with.then on. Good luck
Question:	How do these compare to Superfeet Black for flat feet
Answer:	I prefer these Maxx insoles over the standard.
Question:	Do these work well for over pronation
Answer:	Between the two, ORANGE has the narrower heel, but only by a little bit. It does have a 3.8mm drop from heel to toe. I would suggest the BERRY if you need a narrower heel and cushioning. The drop on BERRY is only 2.4mm. Keep in mind the BERRY is woman specific, meaning a narrower heel and a shorter arch length to fit the female foot better.
Question:	Can anyone tell me how these compare to the standard Powerstep Pinnacle (non-Maxx) insole
Answer:	I've not tried green, but orange seems to be doing me right. I walk on concrete all day and I'm constantly trying to find ways to be kind to my feet. I'll tell you, though... I suffered from plantar fasciitis for two years. I finally stopped being so stubborn and did the calf stretches my doctor told me to do. Plantar fasciitis gone.

Superfeet BLUE Insoles, Professional-Grade Orthotic Shoe Inserts for Medium Thickness and Arch, Unisex, Blue

Superfeet

Based on 5 reviews Check latest price

Product description

A REAL PEOPLE PLEASER: Long-lasting support packed into a thinner, high-performance insole to help improve the fit of a wide range of footwear

HIGH-DENSITY FOAM: Closed-cell foam supports and cushions the foot for long lasting comfort.
Imported
FIT PROFILE: Medium volume/Medium profile insoles; Volume refers to the amount of space these comfortable Superfeet BLUE insoles will take up in your shoe, whereas, the Profile is how much shape you can expect to feel under your foot. Full-length Superfeet insoles are supposed to be trimmed to fit in your shoes.
STABILIZER CAP: The rails of the Superfeet orthotic support shoe inserts reinforce the narrow cap to provide structure and support
HEEL CUP: Helps position the heel to naturally absorb and soften impact from the ground.
SUPERFEET SHAPE: The medium-profile shape of these orthotic shoe inserts puts support right where you need it, but takes up less space in the shoe

User questions & answers

Question:	How do you care for them and keep them clean
Answer:	They are basically indestructible, Need little care. Cleaning, wipe down with a damp cloth if needed. Treat like the inside of you shoe.
Question:	Does this move around under your feet? I currently have dr. Sholls and main issue i have is they move around making it feel very uncomfortable
Answer:	These move more than my Dr. Scholls. The Dr Scholls worked better for me. The blues hurt my feet.
Question:	Which model is the best for flat feet? blue or green
Answer:	Start with blue. The support of the green can be too much for flat feet at times.
Question:	Has anybody tried these in ballet flats
Answer:	I use the 3/4 superset for my ballet flats. Unfortunately, they raise my heel so my ballet flats do not fit as well, but my feet are significantly happier at the end of a long work day-the trade off is completely worth it. FYI- I am on my feet for an average of 8-10 hours per day on a cement floor. Seriously. I noticed a huge difference. My feet felt significantly better at the end of my day using the 3/4 superfeet in my ballet flats.

Sof Sole Insoles Men's AIRR Performance Full-Length Gel Shoe Insert

Sof Sole

Based on 2 reviews Check latest price

Product description

The Airr insole is perfect for those who engage in high impact activities that do a number on their feet. The combination of air chambers and polymer gel cushions your feet and disperses the impact of every foot strike. It is Sof Sole’s most cushioning and shock absorbing insole yet, and its ready to go when you are.

100% COOLMAX®
Polyurethane sole
Sof Sole insoles with Skydex air bubbles in the heel and arch to help absorb impact
Gel in forefoot provides maximum cushioning
COOLMAX fabric top cover wicks away moisture so feet feel cool and dry
Perfect for athletic shoes
Ideal for running, cross training, walking

User questions & answers

Question:	Would these fit my 10.5 curry
Answer:	My wife has the women's size 7 and the arch is about 7/8" at the highest point with the orthotic sitting on a level surface. I don't think they are unusually high. They are relatively stiff (but comfortable) and probably adjusted for the size to mimic where the arch of the foot should be located. I also had problems with plantar fasciitis on a couple of occasions in the past. Since I started wearing these orthotics, I have not had a problem. If you're having an issue with it now, try freezing a small drinking water bottle (16 oz.) and rolling it under your bare foot for about 1/2 hour (2-3 times per day) while you are sitting down. My doctor recommended this, and worked wonders for me.
Question:	what is the size of these in inches
Answer:	The Maxx would likely be a better choice for one who has mild pronation issues and a high arch as the heel on the Maxx version is slightly posted (angled) specifically to address that problem.
Question:	Is this the medium Arch
Answer:	I don’t believe cushioning is the difference. I believe that it is just the arch. Max has a higher arch. I’ve never purchased for Max but I remember the sales person at the store saying that.
Question:	I am looking for a 1/4 inch thick insert . What is the thickness of this insert
Answer:	I wear Superfeet in all my ski boots and had them in hiking boots and winter boots as well. They last a really long time. However, they did not fully support my high arches in hiking boots and I dreaded long hikes because my feet would hurt so much. I thought this was normal. I tried Powersteps and the difference (after a few short break in hikes) has been dramatic. They corrected my under-pronation much better and no burning feet! And my hips are not longer sore. I agree they don't seem to hold up quite as well, but Superfeet are more expensive. What matters is how they make you feel and that is a trial and error proposition. I like that the Powerstep is as rigid as the green Superfeet. I bought a different but highly recommended foot bed that was soft and does not work as well. It depends on use. and users. These have been great for more athletic uses.

Superfeet GREEN Insoles, Professional-Grade High Arch Support, Orthotic Shoe Inserts for Maximum Support, Unisex, Green

Superfeet

Based on 461 reviews Check latest price

Product description

These full length performance Superfeet® Premium Green insoles will keep you on your toes and on-the-go all day long.
The heel cup is deep and narrow to provide exceptional support over long distances.
Deep heel cup provides extra cushioning and support for repetitive impact.
Has a higher profile shape to provide better stability and support your foot for reduced stress.
Utilizes a closed-cell foam construction that gives you extra cushioning for any challenge.
Stability cap built into the heel gives you extra structure and stability.
100% man-made materials.

High-Density Foam
Imported
Manmade sole
FIT PROFILE: High profile/High volume insoles; Volume refers to the amount of space these comfortable insoles will take up in your shoe, whereas, the Profile is how much shape you can expect to feel under your foot. Full-length Superfeet inserts are supposed to be trimmed to fit in your shoes
STABILIZER CAP: Acts as the base of the orthotic shoe inserts that supports the rearfoot and provides structure and stability to the foam layer
DEEP HEEL CUP: These high arch support insoles feature the widest and deepest heel cup which offers maximum support and can help with natural shock absorption
SUPERFEET SHAPE: The high profile shape of the arch support shoe insert helps stabilize and support the foot, which can help reduce stress on feet, ankles and knees
HIGH-DENSITY FOAM LAYER: Closed-cell soft foam insoles support and cushion the foot for long-lasting comfort. Durable construction.

User questions & answers

Question:	There are 2 "size C" options on the sizing chart - what is the difference? Also, am I able to choose my width
Answer:	yes,not shine.
Question:	Whats the difference between the green and orange
Answer:	This worked beautifully on my bone white 40 year old Coach leather bags made in NYC by hand. The Chanel bag situation sounds like a Chanel quality issue. I am so sorry that happened to you.
Question:	Do these last a long time? I have some that are gel and they flattened out after about a year
Answer:	I used it on my Black Chanel bag and it looked great.
Question:	I'm new to insoles. Do you buy some for each pair of shoes - or move them to whichever you are wearing? And how forgiving are they size-wise
Answer:	I would not use this on suede - I think it says on the canister NOT to use on suede. Kiwi makes a spray for suede that comes with a brush on the cap - I would use that.