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We Found the 15 Best Insoles for Peak Comfort After 8,360+ Hours of Testing

Our podiatrist-approved picks are comfortable, well-cushioned, and durable

Person twisting a Fulton Athletic Insole

Verywell Fit / Jhett Thompson

Whether standing all day at work, hiking steep trails, or walking the dog, foot pain shouldn't slow you down. Insoles are designed to deliver comfort and stability through cushioning. According to foot and ankle surgeon Steven Neufeld, MD, they can also help relieve foot pain and soreness and even compensate for the loss of your foot's natural cushion that happens as you age.

To find the best insoles, we spoke with four experts, including podiatrists, an orthopedic surgeon, and an athletic trainer, to learn which key features set high-quality insoles apart from the rest. Then, we tested 30 pairs in The Verywell Testing Lab and at home. To date, we've spent over 8,360 hours walking, running, and training in our insoles while doing cardio, lifting weights, and more. Our top picks received high scores for support, comfort, pain relief, breathability, and value.

How do insoles help your feet?

Insoles gently align your feet and ankles to reduce pain and soreness. Specifically, they can reduce foot pain associated with flat feet and metatarsalgia, or pain in the knuckles of your feet, says orthopedic surgeon Charles Hummer, MD, FAAOS, FACS. He adds that insoles with the right arch support can help with knee pain by correcting your arches into position. The right insoles can also provide heel support, another feature that promotes proper alignment.

Insole Testing by the Numbers

  • 30 pairs of insoles tested
  • 8,360 hours of testing
  • 15 winning pairs
  • 5 APMA-approved pairs
  • 4 medical and athletic experts interviewed
Pros
  • Breathable and mold to the shape of the feet

  • Suitable for all arch types

  • Provide effective pain relief throughout the entire lower body

Cons
  • Takes time to mold to your feet

  • Stiff cork support makes them a bit difficult to trim

Key Specs

Sizes: Women's 5-12, Men’s 8-14 | Arch Type: Low, neutral, or high | Anti-Odor: Yes | Materials: Cork, cotton, foam | Our Overall Rating: 5/5

Who They’re For

Best for people who want breathable, pain-relieving insoles that wors well for all arch types and comfortably mold to the feet.

Why We Love Them

Searching for custom insoles that don't cost a fortune? We highly recommend Fulton's Athletic Insoles. During testing, we found that these durable cork and foam insoles mold to the shape of the feet to provide support exactly where we need it the most. We love that this feature makes them suitable for people with all arch types, whether yours are high, low, or neutral.

They were exceptional at relieving pain throughout our entire lower body, even after standing and walking for seven hours straight at a concert. The top layer is made with breathable cotton, keeping our feet cool and dry. If you've had bad luck with pre-formed pairs in the past, these could be the insoles you've been looking for.

Also available in a men's version at Amazon and Nordstrom.

Potential Flaws

  • While we love that these insoles conform to your specific foot shape, we noticed that it takes a few wears (up to 10 hours, according to the brand) before they soften and change shape.
  • Part of these insoles' superior support lies in their stiff cork construction, which can be difficult to trim to fit your shoes.

Most Valuable Insight

"As these softened up, I had a lot of relief in my heels and arch. I was able to survive the seven-hour ordeal that is Taylor Swift's Eras Tour with ZERO pain in my lower body, which I had greatly anticipated (literally—I had the ice bath ready)." —Mollie P., Verywell Fit product tester

Pros
  • Comfortable and protective gel padding

  • Supportive enough for all-day wear

  • Deep heel cup supports proper alignment

Cons
  • Not as breathable as other options

Key Specs

Sizes: Women’s 5.5-15.5, Men's 4.5-14.5 | Arch Type: High | Anti-Odor: Yes | Materials: Polyurethane foam, gel, plastic | Our Overall Rating: 4.8/5

Who They’re For

Best for people with plantar fasciitis (inflammation in the ligament that connects the heel to the toes) who want comfortable, stabilizing insoles that help reduce symptoms of the condition.

Why We Love Them

The heel pain associated with plantar fasciitis can develop from a number of factors, but we found that EasyFeet's Plantar Fasciitis Arch Support Insoles can help combat many of them. During test walks, the gel padding underneath our heels and the balls of our feet offered comfort and protection, for a light, easy stride. Plus, the deep heel cup promotes proper alignment and distributes weight evenly.

After a long day of wear, we were surprised by how well these insoles supported our feet and prevented numbness in our toes, pain in our lower back, and calf pain. We walked longer, stood longer, and generally lived it up in these insoles—everywhere, from concerts to the office.

Potential Flaws

  • These insoles are thicker and less breathable than others we tested. But they're also absorbent, which we appreciate in warm weather.

Most Valuable Insight

"I always have pain in my feet because of my high arches, and these alleviated the pain almost instantly since they have so much support and gel cushioning." —Jenni M., Verywell Fit product tester

Pros
  • APMA Seal of Approval

  • Lightweight and comfy

  • Anti-odor and breathable

Cons
  • May be too narrow for some

  • May not be supportive enough for some

Key Specs

Sizes: 5-15 (Unisex) | Arch Type: Low, neutral, or high | Anti-Odor: Yes | Materials: Recycled plastic, foam | Our Overall Rating: 4.7/5

Who They’re For

Best for people who wear boots to work, especially if your boots have a hard, flat midsole.

Why We Love Them

Designed for people who have to stand on their feet all day, Timberland's Pro Anti-Fatigue Technology Insoles combine comfort and excellent arch support. During test walks, we were impressed with the comfy cushioning that felt soft underfoot and kept our feet pain-free. We also found that the flexible insole was ideal for walking or standing for hours at a time.

The breathable insole features an antimicrobial coating that cuts down on unwanted odors, keeping our feet feeling fresh. We also like that the inverted cone design uses less material for a lighter insole that won't weigh down your (already) heavy boots. Plus, we love that these insoles earned the American Podiatric Medical Association’s (APMA) Seal of Approval, which means podiatrists agree that this product promotes good foot health.

Potential Flaws

  • These insoles may be too narrow if you have wide feet. However, this means you likely won't have to trim them to get them to fit in your boots.
  • Since they're so thin, we also found that these insoles may not be supportive enough for some people. But we like that the cushioning is thick enough to absorb some additional shock while you walk.

Most Valuable Insight

"I think these would work great for someone who wants to wear Timberland boots for hours and hours without feeling foot fatigue and pain." —Samantha A., Verywell Fit product tester

Pros
  • Excellent arch support

  • Deep heel cups keep feet stable

  • Good shock absorption, even during long outdoor runs

Cons
  • Feels too rigid in tight shoes

  • May require a short adjustment period

Key Specs

Sizes: Men’s 4.5-14.5, Women’s 5.5-15.5 | Arch Type: Low | Anti-Odor: Yes | Materials: Polyester, polyurethane foam, thermoplastic polyurethane | Our Overall Rating: 5/5

Who They’re For

Best for those with flat feet who need strong arch support and stability for running, walking, and gym workouts.

Why We Love Them

EasyFeet’s Black Onyx Insoles are our favorite for flat feet, thanks to their superior arch support and comfort. During testing, the insoles’ deep heel cups cradled our feet and kept them stable. They also supported our flat feet, helping to reduce ankle and knee pain.

The insoles also effectively absorb shock, especially during long walks and runs outside. When we wore them for gym workouts, we noticed a reduction in our usual knee and lower back pain, which elevated our performance. Plus, they feel very high-quality and durable, making them a good value for the money.

Potential Flaws

  • Although we loved the insoles’ superior support, they’re best suited for flexible shoes since they felt too rigid in tighter footwear.
  • During testing, we had to wear the insoles a couple of times for our feet to adjust, which is often the case with a new pair.

Most Valuable Insight

“I have flat feet and can feel the impact of this in my knees and back. After consistent use of the insoles, the pain is definitely less prominent in those areas. My feet feel cradled in them as it has a nice deep heel cup and very good arch support.” —Jeff A., Verywell Fit product tester

Pros
  • Easy to put in and take out

  • Comfortable and flexible

  • Slim design that fits in casual shoes and heels

Cons
  • May not be supportive enough for some

Key Specs

Sizes: Women's 4.5-12 | Arch Type: Low | Anti-Odor: Yes | Materials: Foam | Our Overall Rating: 4.8/5

Who They’re For

Best for people with flat feet or fallen arches who are on their feet all day long.

Why We Love Them

With a slim design that allows them to fit in both casual and heeled shoes, Vionic's Slimfit Orthotic Insoles are our top pick for anyone who needs to be on their feet all day long, for work or for fun. As we wore them, we noticed less back pain after standing for long periods of time. Comfortable and flexible, these insoles are easy to put in and take out, so you can quickly switch one pair between multiple shoes as needed.

While testing, we noticed that these have just the right amount of support for flat feet. Even though they're thin, we appreciate that they feel soft underfoot, protecting our feet from uneven terrain. Plus, the suede-like upper looks and feels luxurious for a simple upgrade that can extend the life of your favorite shoes.

Potential Flaws

  • Vionic's insoles may not be supportive enough for people with neutral or high arches, but they're a great solution for people with flat feet or fallen arches.

Most Valuable Insight

"The Converse shoes that I used for testing are about 7 years old and extremely worn out—but with these insoles added, they felt practically brand-new. I was able to wear my sneakers for long walks around the park and dance in them for hours at concerts without any discomfort, and my feet felt cushioned and supported the entire time." —Talya P., Verywell Fit product tester

Best for Walking All Day

PowerStep Pinnacle Low Insoles

PowerStep Pinnacle Low Insoles
PHOTO: PowerStep
Pros
  • Excellent arch support

  • Provides effective pain relief

  • Anti-odor

Cons
  • May cause initial discomfort

  • Could be more breathable

Key Specs

Sizes: Men’s 4-15, Women’s 6-12 | Arch Type: Low | Anti-Odor: Yes | Materials: Polyester, polyurethane foam, ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA) | Our Overall Rating: 4.9/5

Who They’re For

Best for people with plantar fasciitis or arch pain who need reliable, all-day support.

Why We Love Them

If your arches tend to ache after walking all day, you’ll appreciate the support of PowerStep’s Pinnacle Low Insoles. During testing, they provided all-day comfort, even after we stood and walked for hours at a time in previously unsupportive shoes. They delivered solid arch support right where we needed it, helping to prevent our plantar fasciitis from flaring up.

The arch support felt very natural and didn’t inhibit our movement at all. We could walk pain-free for much longer than we could without them. Plus, an anti-odor coating prevents unpleasant smells from building up over time, keeping our shoes fresh. 

Potential Flaws

  • During testing, our feet initially felt a bit sore, but they adjusted to the insoles’ support very quickly after the first wear.
  • Our feet felt slightly warm when wearing the insoles, so we wish they were more breathable.

Most Valuable Insight

“With these inserts, I feel like I could do a ton of walking and not have to worry about starting to feel pain in my arches. They slipped into my shoes really easily, and they supported the arch perfectly for my foot shape.” —Nick F., Verywell Fit product tester

Pros
  • Four-way stretch prevents blisters, even during long runs

  • Great shock absorption

  • APMA Seal of Approval

Cons
  • Not sweat-wicking

Key Specs

Sizes: Men’s 6-15.5, Women’s 5-12.5 | Arch Type: Low | Anti-Odor: Yes | Materials: Nylon, neoprene | Our Overall Rating: 5/5

Who They’re For

Best for runners with flat feet who also have knee pain.

Why We Love Them

The cushioning in Spenco’s RX Comfort Insole was just what we needed to alleviate knee pain. The thin neoprene absorbs shock and impact well, while the arch offers gentle support. We also like that the top is covered with four-way stretch fabric to prevent blisters, even during longer runs.

These insoles were fairly breathable and didn't attract any unpleasant odors. As we wore them, we also noticed less pain in our shins—another bonus for runners. Also worth noting: These insoles have earned the APMA Seal of Approval. Whether we walked, ran, or tackled tough CrossFit workouts, these insoles protected our joints so we could go the distance.

Also available in a women’s version at Amazon and Zappos.

Potential Flaws

  • These insoles aren't sweat-wicking, although we noticed they’re breathable enough to prevent our feet from overheating.

Most Valuable Insight

"On a scale of one to 10 (10 being painful), I typically feel a four to five when I go on runs. These insoles changed that pain to about a two while wearing the same shoes." —Mike N., Verywell Fit product tester

Pros
  • Provides effective pain relief

  • Soft, responsive cushioning

  • Anti-odor

Cons
  • Not as breathable as other options

Key Specs

Sizes: Women’s 5-14.5, Men’s 8-15.5 | Arch Type: Neutral | Anti-Odor: Yes | Materials: Polyurethane foam, nylon, neoprene | Our Overall Rating: 5/5

Who They’re For

Best for runners and people with knee or heel pain who want budget-friendly insoles.

Why We Love Them

Spenco’s Polysorb Cross Trainer Insoles are a high-quality, budget-friendly option that features foam cushioning and a heel plug for all-day comfort. The support helped us run longer and walk farther, effectively combating our lower back and plantar fasciitis pain. We also like how responsive the insoles are, providing a soft push-off that makes our favorite Hoka sneakers easier to wear.

Antimicrobial technology helps prevent odors from building up over time, while the four-way stretch fabric stops blisters before they start. Plus, the thin design makes it easy to trim to fit most shoes. And we love that these insoles are a solid value, at around a third of the cost of some of our other favorites.

Also available in a men’s version at Amazon, Target, and Zappos

Potential Flaws

  • Although these insoles are less breathable than the other ones we tested, they didn't cause our feet to overheat.

Most Valuable Insight

"Based on how much knee relief I’ve had, I want another pair for my regular sneakers and will continue to put these in my running shoes going forward." —Mollie P., Verywell Fit product tester

Pros
  • Excellent arch support

  • Durable

  • Very breathable

Cons
  • Pricier than some other options

Key Specs

Sizes: Men’s 5-15, Women’s 4.5-14 | Arch Type: Low, neutral, or high | Anti-Odor: No | Materials: Foam | Our Overall Rating: 5/5

Who They’re For

Best for those looking for a supportive insole for cycling, running, or walking.

Why We Love Them

We like CURREX's BikePro Insoles for extra support and comfort while cycling. During testing, we used them in cycling and running shoes with little support and noticed an immediate difference. The firm arch support and heel-to-toe cushioning kept our feet comfortable and supported while alleviating foot pain that we often feel after biking or running workouts.

We were also pleasantly surprised by the insole’s excellent moisture management and breathability, which kept our feet dry and fresh. The deep heel cup helps lock the foot in place for added stability on the bike. We also like that these durable insoles come in low, medium, or high support so that you can choose the right level for your feet.

Potential Flaws

  • Although these insoles are pricier than others on our list, we were impressed with their quality and durability, so we think they’re worth the investment.

Most Valuable Insight

“Some of my shoes have very little arch support and having these insoles made my shoes more comfortable to wear. My feet felt good and I did not have any soreness afterward, which is what I was looking for.”—Jacob F., Verywell Fit product tester

Pros
  • Solid arch support and deep heel promote proper alignment

  • Good shock absorption helps alleviate foot pain

  • Comfy, light cushioning

Cons
  • Not ideal for tight-fitting shoes

Key Specs

Sizes: Women’s 5-11.5, Men’s 3-15 | Arch Type: Neutral | Anti-Odor: Yes | Materials: Polyester, foam | Our Overall Rating: 4.9/5

Who They’re For

Best for runners and walkers who overpronate or have a history of plantar fasciitis and need reliable arch support.

Why We Love Them

With good arch support and a deep heel, PowerStep’s PULSE Maxx Insoles are an excellent option if your feet overpronate, or roll inward excessively when walking or running. During testing, they supported and cradled our feet, promoting proper alignment and correcting overpronation. We also found that the APMA-approved insoles kept our plantar fasciitis pain from flaring up.

The light cushioning keeps our feet comfortable during long walks while still being supportive. Plus, the foam insole delivered good shock absorption, which helped alleviate the foot pain we typically feel at the end of the day. We also appreciate the odor-control fabric that helps reduce heat, friction, and sweat.

Potential Flaws

  • During testing, our toes felt a bit cramped with the insoles, so they may not be the best option for tight-fitting shoes.

Most Valuable Insight

“I usually get pain along the bottom of my feet, especially on the balls and heels. When using the insoles, my arches were supported, and I didn't have pain throughout the day.” —Sydney M., Verywell Fit product tester

Pros
  • Heat-moldable for a custom fit

  • Lightweight and responsive

  • Cushioned and durable

Cons
  • May feel slightly bulky in some shoes

Key Specs

Sizes: Men’s 4-14.5, Women’s 6-10.5 | Arch Type: Neutral | Anti-Odor: Yes | Materials: Not listed | Our Overall Rating: 5/5

Who They’re For

Best for runners and high-impact athletes who need custom-molded arch support and cushioning.

Why We Love Them

For the high-impact protection runners need, we recommend Remind Insoles’ Remedy Insoles. During test runs, they prevented fatigue and kept our feet pain-free, allowing us to increase our usual long run distance comfortably. The insoles’ heat molding technology created a custom fit that felt more supportive than other insoles we’ve tried.

With four layers of foam, the insoles absorb shock very well, and the balls of our feet and heels felt especially well-cushioned and protected. We also like the insoles’ moisture-wicking and odor-control technology, which kept our feet dry and fresh. They’re lightweight and responsive yet still feel very durable and can withstand repeated use without breaking down.

Potential Flaws

  • The insoles are a bit bulky, so they won’t work in shoes that don’t have a removable insole or laces to adjust the fit.

Most Valuable Insight

“The support these insoles provide is far better than the insoles I own, which are of lower price and quality. They’re also more comfortable and protective against impact.” —Ray Y., Verywell Fit product tester

Pros
  • Deep, sturdy heel cup

  • Cushioning helps reduce foot fatigue

  • Lightweight yet durable materials provide firm support

Cons
  • Not as breathable as other options

  • May not be enough arch support for some

Key Specs

Sizes: Men’s 2.5-13, Women’s 4.5-14 | Arch Type: Neutral | Anti-Odor: Yes | Materials: Polyester, carbon fiber, polyurethane memory foam | Our Overall Rating: 4.5/5

Who They’re For

Best for hikers with neutral arches, especially if you’re prone to plantar fasciitis and foot fatigue.

Why We Love Them

When you're hitting the trails, adequate support and cushioning are key. Superfeet’s Hike Support Insoles offer both, providing comfort and stability while keeping us pain-free. During test hikes, the deep, sturdy heel cup supported and cradled our rearfoot, which we found especially beneficial for walking downhill on trails.

Engineered for hiking, these insoles are made with lightweight but durable materials for firm, reliable support. The two layers of heel-to-toe cushioning helped reduce fatigue and provide impact protection. Plus, the insoles even reduced symptoms of plantar fasciitis.

Potential Flaws

  • These insoles are thick and well-cushioned, making them less breathable than others we tested. However, they’re covered with moisture-wicking, odor-fighting material, which helps manage odor and sweat.
  • These insoles felt comfortable during testing, but they may not be the best option for those who need high arch support.  

Most Valuable Insight

“My feet felt supported and cradled by these insoles, especially in the heel. They’re quite comfortable and provide very strong heel support.” —Al S., Verywell Fit product tester

Pros
  • Firm support that molds to the feet

  • Very durable

  • Low profile with a slip-resistant base that keeps them in place

Cons
  • Not suitable for casual wear

  • Require a break-in period

Key Specs

Sizes: Men’s 8-14, Women’s 5-12 | Arch Type: Low, neutral, or high | Anti-Odor: No | Materials: Cork | Our Overall Rating: 4.9/5

Who They’re For

Best for those prone to foot and heel pain who need firm, structured arch support in dress shoes.

Why We Love Them

Most insoles are too bulky for non-athletic shoes, so we recommend Fulton’s Universal Insole when you need to add support to loafers, flats, and other shoes without removable insoles. During testing, we found that the insoles’ low-profile design and three-quarter length made them perfect for boots and other dress shoes. The firm arch supported our feet when walking and eliminated the foot pain that we felt when wearing previously unsupportive shoes.  

Made with durable cork and foam, these insoles mold to your unique arches and heels, making them suitable for all foot types. We like that they come in a wide range of sizes and don’t require trimming. The insoles also feature a slip-resistant base, so they stay in place, helping prevent blisters.

Also available in a women's version at Amazon and Fulton.

Potential Flaws

  • While these insoles work well in dress shoes, they’re not versatile for athletic or casual shoes like sandals.
  • The insoles will mold to your feet's unique shape, so they may feel stiff for the first few wears as you break them in.

Most Valuable Insight

“With these insoles, I didn't experience any pain, and my shoes felt as supportive as brand-new shoes. I like the fact that they’re very firm and seem to be quite well-constructed.” —Al S., Verywell Fit product tester

Pros
  • Effectively absorb shock, even on harder terrain

  • Very durable cushioning

  • APMA Seal of Approval

Cons
  • Trimming instructions could be more detailed

  • May require an adjustment period

Key Specs

Sizes: Women’s 4.5-12 | Arch Type: High | Anti-Odor: Yes | Materials: Polyester, foam | Our Overall Rating: 5/5

Who They’re For

Best for runners with high arches who need strong support.

Why We Love Them

With a stiff arch and durable forefoot cushioning, Superfeet’s All-Purpose Women's High Impact Support Insoles deliver the support and performance that active individuals need. During testing, the insoles effectively absorbed shock when we ran on hard surfaces. Our steps felt more responsive, and we also noticed less cramping and soreness in the midfoot area, even after spending hours on our feet. 

Their deep heel cup helps distribute weight evenly, improving posture and form as we walk and run. Built for high-impact activities and the shape of women’s feet, the insoles’ slim design easily fits into most shoes. Like many of our other top picks, they've earned the APMA's Seal of Approval.

Potential Flaws

  • We like that these insoles can be trimmed for an exact fit, but we wish the instructions for cutting them were more detailed.
  • Although we appreciate the firm support of the insoles, they require an adjustment period. We noticed some heel pain during the first few wears as we got used to running with them.

Most Valuable Insight

“Superfeet doesn't mess around with arch support! And I love that. My arches felt supported, and my feet cramped less than before.” —Claire B., Verywell Fit product tester

Pros
  • Lightweight, with excellent energy return

  • APMA-approved

  • Lifetime guarantee

Cons
  • May require a short break-in period

  • Pricier than other options

Key Specs

Sizes: Men’s 4.5-14, Women’s 5-12.5 | Arch Type: Low, neutral, or high | Anti-Odor: Yes | Materials: Polyurethane foam, carbon fiber, recycled polyester | Our Overall Rating: 5/5

Who They’re For

Best for runners who want to invest in insoles that provide customized support and enhanced performance.

Why We Love Them

If you want to invest in high-quality, durable insoles that can boost your training and performance, we think Tread Labs’ Dash Insoles are a smart choice. During testing, we found that they provided exceptional support for high arches and helped to alleviate foot fatigue during longer or more intense runs. This firm, ultra-light insole allowed for excellent energy return, and we noticed a significant improvement in our running efficiency.

We used these AMPA-approved insoles primarily for road and trail running, but they work well for walking, hiking, or skiing. Plus, they come with a lifetime guarantee for the carbon fiber insert, so you can easily replace the foam cover to make your insoles like new again. Although we tested these insoles for high arches, they’re available in four different heights, allowing for a customized fit that accommodates all arches.

Potential Flaws

  • These insoles caused some mild Achilles and arch discomfort during the first wear, but it quickly went away as our feet relaxed and became accustomed to them.
  • Although these are pricier than most of our other picks, we think they're well worth the investment since they’re highly durable and have a lifetime guarantee.

Most Valuable Insight

“My favorite thing is the absolute stiffness of the carbon plate. My arches felt a solid amount of support. They’ve made intense runs less limited by the strength of my feet.” —Brian P., Verywell Fit product tester

Insoles We Also Tested

We tested 30 insoles, but only 15 earned a spot on our final list of recommendations. Although we liked some features of these other pairs, they didn't score high enough to be chosen as top picks.

  • Currex's RunPro Running Insoles provided a little cushioning but didn’t alleviate our foot pain or have enough support for higher arches.
  • After just a few minutes, we had to remove Dr. Scholl’s Athletic Series Running Shoe Insoles. The arch was made from hard, uncomfortable plastic, and it didn't hit the right spot on our feet, causing cramping.
  • We love that PowerStep's Original Insoles earned the APMA's Seal of Approval. However, the high arch support made the toe boxes of our shoes feel uncomfortably tight.
  • Dr. Scholl’s Comfort & Energy Massaging Gel Insoles feature gel beads in the bottom, which help relieve pressure but lack support. We also didn’t like that they slid around inside our shoes.

What We’ve Updated

  • Since publishing our fully tested roundup of the best insoles, we’ve continued long-term testing our original picks and tested 10 new insoles from top, trusted brands, bringing our total of tested insoles to 30 options. We wore these at home in various shoes, including walking, biking, running, and dress options, as we worked out and went about our daily routines. We evaluated the insoles for their support, comfort, pain relief, breathability, and value.
  • We consulted again with podiatrist Diana Valencia, DPM, who helped inform our testing process and ensure that our advice on choosing high-quality insoles is accurate and up to date.
  • Based on our long-term testing and new testing insights, we’ve re-evaluated and reworked our top picks for Best for Running, Best for Overpronation, and more.
  • We’ve also added more superlatives, including Best for Walking All Day, Best for Women, Best for Cycling, and more.

What to Look for When Shopping for Insoles

  • Type: Some insoles are crafted with cushioning in mind, while others provide firm support or foot pain relief. Most insoles are designed to fit low, medium, or high arches, so be sure to keep your foot type in mind. Since feet are unique, Valencia prefers heat moldable insoles, which can be customized to fit and support your anatomy.
  • Volume: Volume refers to how much space the insoles occupy inside your shoes. Insoles for athletes tend to have more volume because they need to absorb shock well and withstand frequent wear, says athletic trainer Marcia Graddon, ATC, BOCPD. But dress models are about half as long and much thinner, so they can fit easily in low-profile shoes.
  • Materials: Insoles often rely on cork, plastic, foam, gel, or a combination to provide cushioning and support. Graddon explains that plastic insoles tend to be stiffer, while pairs made of cork and foam will mold to your feet more easily. She adds that foam is the softest and the least supportive, making it a good choice for wearers with diabetes or neuropathy (loss of feeling in your feet).
  • Arch Support: The right arch support can help relieve pain from flat feet, fallen arches, and high arches. It can even reduce knee pain by gently correcting your feet and promoting proper foot alignment, says Hummer. Look for insoles with arch support that's firm enough, so they don't flatten out when you step on them, says Valencia, but not so firm that they're uncomfortable or cause your feet to cramp.
  • Price: You can usually expect to pay between $15 and $60 for a high-quality pair of insoles. Less expensive pairs may not have enough support or durability, while more expensive pairs can have additional technology you don't necessarily need.
  • Versatility: Some insoles are on the more expensive side, so being able to swap them in and out of different shoes can help save you money. Graddon notes that most people only need two pairs of insoles: a sport style and a dress style.
Person twisting a Vionic Slimfit Orthotic Insole

Verywell Fit / Jhett Thompson

How We Tested the Insoles

To find the best insoles, we tested 30 options in our Lab and at home as part of our regular routines. When testing insoles, we track their performance in each of these five key categories.

  • Support: After slicing the insoles in half in our Lab to visually assess their arch support, we slip them into our shoes and try them on. We check to see if the arch support hits our feet in the correct spot and how comfortable it feels. Depending on our foot type, we assess how supportive the insoles are by noting how our feet, ankles, knees, and lower back feel throughout the testing period. Do they gently correct our feet to encourage proper alignment? Or are they too flimsy, without any real structure?
  • Comfort: As we wear the insoles over time, we note how they feel under our feet. Are they thick and plush or thin and firm? Do we notice them throughout the day, or do we forget they're in our shoes? We also try to see how far we can walk while wearing the insoles—ideally, they're comfortable enough to get some extra steps in.
  • Pain Relief: Some insoles are specifically marketed to relieve pain, whether in the feet or throughout the lower body. During testing, we pay attention to how our feet, ankles, knees, and lower back feel, especially at the end of each day. The best insoles help combat discomfort and pain in as many areas as possible.
  • Breathability: Breathability refers to how well the insoles regulate your shoes' temperature and moisture level. While wearing the insoles, we note how hot and sweaty our feet feel. We're looking for insoles that promote airflow to help cool our feet down—bonus points if they also wick sweat away to keep them dry.
  • Value: To assign each pair a value score, we didn't look at the price until we finished testing and evaluating the insoles in all other key categories. Insoles that receive a high value score are often priced below what we would consider paying for them based on their performance and quality.
Person cutting an EasyFeet Plantar Fasciitis Arch Support Insole in half with a band saw

Verywell Fit / Jhett Thompson

Our Experts

We consulted experts at each stage of our research, testing, and reporting process. The following experts gave us insight into what key features to consider when choosing quality insoles. Valencia also supervised our insole test and advised us on what to look for when scoring each insole.

  • Diana Valencia, DPM, podiatrist in New York
  • Marcia Graddon, ATC, BOCPD, athletic trainer at Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Center in Virginia
  • Steven Neufeld, MD, orthopedic surgeon and founder of Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Center in Virginia
  • Jackie Sutera, DPM, podiatrist at City Podiatry in New York

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the difference between inserts and insoles?

Technically, shoe insoles are the cushioning or padding that comes with a shoe, while inserts are removable components that can be added to shoes to address a particular concern. However, the terms are generally used interchangeably, with both referring to products that can be added to shoes to improve fit or enhance support, alignment, or comfort.

How do I wear insoles in shoes?

First, Sutera recommends checking inside your shoe to assess the existing insoles—are they flat enough to layer new insoles on top, or will you need to remove them to make more space? Once you've determined how much vertical space your new insoles will take up, you can use your shoes' existing insoles as a guide to decide whether or not to trim them.

How long do insoles last?

Sutera says most insoles last about one year. However, if yours are flattening or peeling, have holes, or look worn out, they may need to be replaced sooner.

What are the best insoles for standing all day?

The best insoles for standing all day are made with durable, high-quality materials and provide good support, cushioning, and stability, such as Vionic’s Slim Fit Orthotic Insoles. Odor protection and moisture-wicking capabilities are also important factors to consider, especially when wearing them in warm conditions.

Why Trust Verywell Fit

As a certified personal trainer, running coach, gym buff, and Verywell Fit fitness writer, Christine Luff, ACE-CPT, spends countless hours researching and testing the latest exercise gear and gadgets. She only recommends products that she can genuinely stand behind and that she believes are good investments for her readers.

Additional reporting contributed by Lindsey Lanquist and Sarah Felbin

As a seasoned Verywell Fit fitness writer, Lindsey Lanquist understands how vital quality product recommendations can be. She carefully recommends products that are reliable, comfortable, and genuinely well-reviewed by those who've tried them.

Sarah Felbin loves diving into the latest health and fitness research. With over two decades of dance experience, she knows how important it is to feel comfortable on your feet. She's passionate about finding products that are of great value and make life easier.

For this article, the authors looked over the results from our Lab and at-home tests to help compile our top picks.

Christine Luff

By Christine Luff, ACE-CPT
Christine knows that the right fitness gear can improve your motivation and workouts. She uses her expertise and experience as a fitness writer and personal trainer to recommend products she can stand behind.