Best Insoles For Flat Feet – 2024 Buying Guide
We tested and reviewed dozens of the top insoles on the market and found that the SmartSole Insoles hit all the top notes for performance, comfort, and durability. Read our full review below to learn more.
Standout Picks
Criteria Used for Evaluation
Support
The best insoles for flat feet will lift the arch enough to ensure better support when they are worn correctly.
Here we looked at the most critical factor in choosing running inserts for flat feet: arch support. It’s important to have the right support for your specific situation in order to effectively treat and reduce the stress typically put on your feet during your runs and avoid placing stress on the center of the foot’s arch when making contact with the ground.
Height is also important because if it is the arch is too high or too low the insole will be ineffective and create an uncomfortable situation. So when buying flat feet running shoes online, make sure they go well with your inserts. A lot of the inserts on our list can be trimmed down, so if you need to make them fit your shoes these may be a good option.
All in all, the flat foot insoles on our list of reviews are all made for runners and athletes who have flat feet--but that doesn't mean that they are exactly the same. In fact, they each offer various different levels of support--so there is definitely something out there for all types of runners with flat feet or fallen arches. Bear in mind that if it's good for high-intensity foot strike like during runs, it's good for everyday walking. The vice versa might not be the case. So be sure to investigate both insoles for flat feet running and walking depending on your needs.
Size
The fit of the insoles is critical as it can make them highly uncomfortable in the shoe when they are worn.
Here we focused on how the insoles fit into your favorite pair of running shoes, if they have gaps along the sides, are too short or too long for the shoes, or if they are too wide–all of these factors can affect the intended function of the insoles as well as make them highly uncomfortable.
That being said, there are many insoles out there that can be trimmed as needed to get a better fit–these areas, however, are usually on the forefoot of the insole. Luckily, the heel is easily adjustable–so if the rest fits you shouldn’t have any problems here. Lastly, we made sure none of our options were to narrow since this can cause irritation and balance issues.
In the end, the right fit is one of the most important factors to consider. After all, if the inserts you get don't fit your shoes and your needs you will end up wasting money and ending up right back where you started. Make sure to keep your needs and preferences at the forefront if you want to be sure you are getting the perfect insoles for you.
Durability
Some insoles provide shock absorption, enhanced breathable, removable top covers, and the ability to be trimmed down.
When looking for the best shoe inserts for flat feet, durability is key. No one wants a product that is going to break down us and needs to be replaced in the recent future–and this is especially important when it comes to insoles we plan on using during our runs. We want a product that holds up over time and that means insoles for flat feet with a more rigid in design than those made for casual wear.
Some insoles provide shock absorption, enhanced breathable, removable top covers, and the ability to be trimmed down. These are all important because it’s important to use a product that will hold up to the demands running puts on them over time without having to replace them on a consistent basis.
All in all, we all want to invest in a pair of insoles that will last you the long haul. However, it is important to note that if we want our insoles to last we need to make sure we take care of them properly as well. Make sure you care for the insoles appropriately so you can help extend their life over the long run--if you take care of them they will take care of you!
Use
People who stand or walk all day will get benefits from shoe insoles and can see resutls almost instantly.
An insole is located inside the shoe, directly under your foot. Many insoles can be removed from shoes and replaced with a specialty insole or orthotic. Insoles are meant to provide the wearer comfort, may have moisture-wicking/odor resistant properties and/or provide arch support.
Insoles help individuals correct their foot function. Insoles help realign the foot and ankle to a neutral position, which can help alleviate underlying issues in joints, muscles, tendons, and others. In addition, shoe insoles can help distribute weight more evenly, absorb the shock of impact, and take the pressure off sore spots such as bunions, the ball of the foot, etc.
Shoe insoles enhance the comfort of your feet, too. Individual generally purchase insoles for three main reasons: absorbing shock and reducing joint pain, foot odor control, and all-day comfort. If you are working long hours on hard surfaces, the best insole for you is one that is a gel or air foam.
For flat feet, the foot could have imbalances which can lead to an excessive inward rolling of the foot, also known as over-pronation. Abnormal foot motion such as overpronation can happen if the foot has an imbalance. Over-pronation can result in injuries in the knees, hips or even back.
Balance is especially important, as the force of impact experienced while running with imbalances can lead to serious injury, discomfort and incorrect running form. In conjunction with the proper footwear, insoles can help improve these imbalances as well as alleviate pain and discomfort.
People who walk all day will get benefits from shoe insoles. For overweight individuals, a shoe insole can greatly reduce the added pressure the extra weight can cause. Make sure to consider your weight before making your purchase and really take the time to read through reviews to see how they really hold up.
Comfort
It is important to confirm that any insole you purchase fits your foot and arch appropriately for optimal comfort.
It is necessary to choose an insole that is neither too rigid, nor too flexible. because an insole which is too firm won't be able to absorb the shock from any regular physical activity. When energy applies force to this type of device, the design or material of the insole doesn't provide enough compression, resulting in most of the impact stress transmitting back into the joints of your body.
This can often lead to knee, back and ankle discomfort. While at first, an extra cushy insole might feel really good, in the insole lack support and cannot safeguard against the painful issues associated with flat feet. These types of insoles are often made from a compressed foam material. It is always apparent in the first few uses that the support provided is not enough.
Most inserts for flat feet sold on the market are in “approximate sizing.” Because of that reason, this leads to an inadequate fit for many users. Some individuals may be “in-between” sizes for the vast majority of insoles on the market, making them believe that an over the counter insole may not be effective for them.
In order to get the best fit and effective insoles, it is important to confirm that any insole you purchase fits your foot and arch appropriately, not depend on the manufacturers’ suggested sizing too much. Regardless of the inserts you ultimately choose, it is necessary to break into these types of devices over a prolonged period of time.
Your foot cannot be accustomed to the level of support a new insole provides, your feet need extra time to adjust to the correct biomechanical (walking) position. Lastly, you should often read reviews or information about inserts for flat feet, to see what others are reporting as specific qualities which may help with quick relief.
10 Best Orthotics for Flat Feet
1. SmartSole
The SmartSole exercise insoles are specifically designed for runners in mind, so we know they won't disappoint. They come at a great price and also provide a 100% satisfaction guarantee--so you know this is a high-quality product.
Read moreSupport
They utilized medical-grade gell in the heel to provide shock absorption, reduce fatigue, relieve pressure on your back and joints, and treat symptoms as well as prevent injuries.
Size
Before you buy these insoles, make sure to refer to the sizing chart to ensure you are investing in the right size for you and the shoes you will be using them with.
Durability
These insoles come at a great price and the company also provides you with a 100% satisfaction guarantee. This means that you can receive a full refund if you aren't completely satisfied with the results.
Use
These running inserts for flat feet were designed to help treat and prevent symptoms many runners with flat feet experience--such as plantar fasciitis and reoccurring shin splints.
Comfort
The SmartSole is an insole for flat feet that is antimicrobial and breathable. Because of that, your feet will remain cool, dry and comfortable during all of your runs.
2. Feetmat
The Feetmat shoe insoles for flat feet are specifically designed with runners and athletes designed and are meant to withstand the test of time, in terms of durability. As far as value, these come at a pretty average price and are lightweight and highly recommended by Doctor's, therapists, and long-term users.
Read moreSupport
Thes inserts for flat feet are made of EVA foam and are thicker than other options--which allows them to provide additional support. They feature a medium arch that helps address symptoms associated with flat feet--such as plantar fasciitis, overpronation, morton neuroma, bunions, arch pain, heel pain, and foot pain.
Size
As far as size goes, the Feetmat insoles for flat feet are available in a variety of sizes for you to ensure you are getting the perfect fit.
Durability
According to user reviews, this insole for flat feet is made of high-quality materials that are durable and built to last you the long haul.
Use
These orthotics for flat feet are perfect for those of you who enjoy engaging in athletic activities and are looking for relief from the symptoms associated with flat feet.
Comfort
They feature a Stoma design, which allows them to provide maximum breathability as well as remain odor resistant. You can easily trim them to fit your foot and/or shoe and ensure they fit your needs.
3. Copper Compression
These are some of the best and most affordable insoles for flat feet out there. They feature copper-infused technology to provide support and relieve for those of you with flat feet.
Read moreSupport
The best part about these flat feet inserts is that they provide a great deal of support for those of you who have flat feet and need more stability and support.
Size
The orthotic inserts created by Copper Compression can be trimmed to fit your shoes and provide adequate cushioning and support.
Durability
These insoles are currently patent-pending and boast the highest amount of copper in their product. This metal isn't just for show: its natural bacteria-resistant properties ensure that you won't need to deal with odor or athlete's foot.
Use
As far as use goes, these are perfect for those of you looking for some serious relief and additional support.
Comfort
They can easily be worn all day and are great for running as well as everyday life. These come at an excellent price. What's even better is that this product also provides you with a 100% money-back guarantee straight from the manufacturer.
4. Samurai
Samurai insoles are perfect for runners with plantar fasciitis, flat feet, heel plan, and overpronation. The hard orthotics were designed by a podiatrist. Instead of fitting a size range, they come in individual sizes. No trimming required. Rather than being rigid, it features a springy mold core for just enough arch support.
Read moreSupport
Samurai inserts for flat feet supply extra longitudinal cushioning and support. Forefoot extensions prevent movement of the insert that is necessary during sporting activities. The insoles do wonders for people whose feet are prone to problems - they are designed to reduce overpronation, heel, forefoot, and arch or leg pain.
Size
The Samurai insoles are a full-length pair of insoles that will cover your foot from front to back--just make sure it fits your shoes before you make your purchase.
Durability
These insoles are designed to reduce overpronation and offer greater stability and maximum support. it is Ideal for runners seeking arch support for prevention and treatment of sports injuries and foot pain such as the ball of the foot pain, neuroma, overpronation, heel pain, flat feet, and many other conditions. Best of all is that all these features are included at a convenient price point.
Use
These insoles for flat feet are designed specifically to fit into work shoes and boots. The proton heel cushion and comfortable arch support reduce shock absorption and fatigue. A common cause of many sporting injuries and foot pain is a poor alignment of feet: these insoles treat the basic cause of overpronation that causes sports injuries and foot pain.
Comfort
The shape is contoured, which means that it supports the feet in all directions and maximally decreases fatigue and pain. Moreover, there is a heel cushion and comfortable arch support which both help reduce the absorption of shock.
5. Sof Sole Airr
As an athlete we would tell you this insole is best for you, worth all the coins you will invest in it. The arch and heel of this insole have air bubbles from Skydex to help in absorption impact, while the forefoot gel helps in absorbing shock.
Read moreSupport
These shoe insoles for flat feet come as a right choice for the undeniable arch support for your feet, with their high arch support that helps minimize feet pains plus you can use the same insole in your different shoes and feel just fine.
Size
It has a 3.3cm height in the Arch which means one will continue being comfortable in any terrain, really it doesn’t matter where you will be running or walking or doing anything you are well taken care of in this. It has extra support that is provided with a plate made of nylon for your arch and heel. Which is suitable for a variety of sporting activities, jumping, cycling, running, marathon and hiking just to name but a few.
Durability
Having nylon as its major material it means it is a highly durable insole, you enjoy using this insole for a long period of time before it wearing or tearing, when buying this smile all the way to the cashier since he or she will miss your smile for some time, yes that is right!
Use
This insole for the shoes brings to light the improved stability to improve the motion control and offer support to athletes with arches that are low, now this brings cushioning into picture as it gives you the chance to do any activity while its job is to provide shock absorbers to prevent injuries while running, cycling or jumping all day, this insole makes safe from your flat fleet injuries.
Comfort
It also has the fabric from cool max that helps in tapping out moisture to prevent dampness and improve the dryness and coolness of the feet.
6. Superfeet Green
Superfeet Green Premium Inserts will make a real difference, not only in terms of comfort but also with regards to the health of your whole body. Their unique design adds exceptional stability and biomechanical shape and foot arch support, helping for your feet and legs, protecting them from plantar fasciitis, heel and ankle pain, knee stress, aching, and tired feet.
Read moreSupport
Superfeet Green has two negatives. The first is that they don’t provide the best support for very high arches, and secondly they are not able to be worn in tight shoes. Therefore, if your shoe is already tight, they may not fit, because the thickness is about 3.75mm, while the posterior part is 8mmin their front part
Size
For a thinner insole, choose a Superfeet Black, they are suitable for most types of footwear and can even be used in different types of shoes that don’t have a removable footbed.
Durability
The good thing about these insoles is that they are durable and built to last. The feature high-quality ingredients that will last you the long haul.
Use
The insoles have an Eco-fabric Agion antimicrobial top cover made of from low-friction material to prevent blisters and reduce foot odor. Superfeet for flat feet have been highly recommended by occupational therapists and doctors for persons with, feet and back problems. One of the strong points of Superfeet Green Premium inserts is that insoles connect the best materials with unique shapes and designs to keep the foot in its ideal functioning position.
Comfort
The major purpose and function of Superfeet Premium Insoles are to help control the mechanics of the foot and align them properly with the rest of your body. Additionally, they also balance and improve stride and reduce the risk of a foot injury. Superfeet insoles permit you to stay comfortably on your feet longer.
7. Superfeet Black
Superfeet for flat feet has taken up yet another spot on our top 10 list--which is no surprise given the high-quality products this brand consistently offers. These insoles can be used in almost any shoe--but come highly recommended for professional and slimmer fitting shoes.
Read moreSupport
These insoles also use a natural NXT anti-bacterial coating; this prevents any odor or mildew from forming. They also feature a low, structured heel cup to prevent overpronation as well as joint and foot stress. Lastly, they are Latex-free as well as Vegan-friendly. They are a bit on the pricier side--but well worth the cost if they fit all of your needs!
Size
These insoles are narrower--making them perfect for all footwear, especially tighter fitting shoes. They are designed to adjust to any arch type--but also provide specific benefits for symptoms associated with flat feet. The Superfeet Black insoles for flat feet provide users with light and effective low arch support. Its minimalistic, black design allows them to fit seamlessly with any shoe.
Durability
True to the Superfeet brand, you will love this one when it comes to durability because they feature high-quality materials that are built to last.
Use
These inserts for flat feet address many symptoms that arise in those of you with flat feet--such as arch and foot pain, Plantar Fasciitis, and heel pain.
Comfort
They are not bulky and will not take away from the fit or feel of any of your shoes. They utilize lightweight and barely noticeable foam in their cushioning--so you receive the necessary cushioning you need, without all of the bulkiness that often may come with it.
8. Sole DK
Sole insoles is another leading manufacturer of high-quality insoles for flat feet. Their DK Signature Edition Sole Insoles version makes a distinct difference, especially for people with fallen arches or any foot-related issues such as calluses, bunions, knee pain, plantar fasciitis, and corns. If you have fallen or high arches, the arch of your foot will not get the support needed to function properly. Sole insole’s design will support the alignment of your feet into the proper position, supplying your feet with all of the support that is necessary in order to function correctly. The insole will fit great in any women’s or men's running shoe.
Read moreExtra Cushioning
The difference between normal flat feet inserts and the Dean Karnazes signature edition is very huge. Like all Sole insoles models, the Dean Karnazes signature model provides good cushioning and are made with heat moldable technology which permits a more personalized fit.
Support and Alignment
The DK Signature Edition Sole running insoles for flat feet not only supply perfect arch support and better heel alignment of the feet but are an excellent alternative for any individual who has pain and discomfort from other foot conditions as well. These inserts will help to stabilize your entire foot, therefore, it can help promote the muscles in the arch and correct foot movements.
The low profile of about 1.6 mm of Sole DK Signature Edition makes them suitable for low to medium volume footwear.
Cost and Value
These lightweight orthotics for flat feet can be used for high impact activities such as mountaineering, winter sports, hiking, and serious long-distance running. Furthermore, they don’t get sweat, they dry out quickly, and they are very resilient. The only small issue to this insole is that they have a bit of a wider platform than the other brands, therefore you may have problems fitting them in some of your shoes. For users stuck with this problem, the cost of replacement shoes may not be worthwhile.
9. Powerstep Pinnacle Maxx
Power step is one of the leading running shoe insoles for flat feet and patients are mainly referred to get them by their medical professional and this brand is always focused on producing the best insoles out there.
Read moreSupport
This orthotic insole features a design that is very unique on the heels which provide a platform that is angled mildly for perfect support. It also enhances stability and comfort of the shoe in use, having a cushioning foam made of EVA and a layer at the top with anti-microbial to minimize on the friction and heat not forgetting to make it firmer
Size
The top material is made of anti-microbial, which ensures you get to make your feet as dry and as comfortable by keeping heat away and stopping friction of any kind that you might get from the insoles. It is also among the insoles that can be used in different types of shoes without having to adjust anything, it fits just perfect in any of your shoes.
Durability
Another incredibly durable insole, you will love this one. It features durable materials and cushioning that is made of high-quality materials that are built to last--so you can count on them for the long haul.
Use
This insole is best known for helping the foot from arch pains, plantar fasciitis, heel pain, and overpronation while preventing any other conditions that can make the foot uncomfortable. The cushioning of this insole is crazily good, with its base that has EVA foam to provide a soft, comfort, support and well-controlled feel on the targeted areas thus making it stand out.
Comfort
When you think of stability, think of Pinnacle Maxx: offering extra foot stability with the support the firmer arch delivers to the users. It comes as no surprise as they maintain their brand to offer quality at all costs. The heel platform is angled slightly on the exterior to help the extreme pronators, this platform which is angled provides great movement control every time you have them on, they offer support and comfort at the same time.
10. Spenco Polysorb Cross Trainer
The last but not the least on our Best Insole for Flat Feet list is Spenco Polysorb Cross Trainer. Athletes with flat feet are at risk for additional injuries that may hold back their progression in their sport, but with these insoles, you will be able to prevent (or relieve) any current or future symptoms or injuries.
Read moreSupport
They also incorporate the Spencer heel plug to improve shock absorption and eliminate and reduce, any symptoms that may arise from the consistent impact.
Size
The Spenco Polysorb Cross Trainer inserts for flat feet are specifically designed for athletes looking for improved shock absorption, added cushioning, and injury prevention.
Durability
These orthotics for flat feet are not the most durable insoles for flat feet on our list, but they are designed to be really durable and built to last so you can count on them for the long haul.
Use
These flat feet insoles use a 4-way stretch fabric--this prevents unwanted odors from forming, even when used frequently. They boast of extra cushioning to increase comfort and provide maximum value for money
Comfort
The Spenco insoles use EVA cushioning to provide you with additional cushioning and increased comfort levels. These insoles are also made of Polysorb polyurethane, which allows them to be lightweight and comfortable.