Choosing the Right Orthotic Insoles

Myth: Orthotic insoles are one-size-fits-all.

Insoles come in all different shapes and sizes, and people wear them for different reasons. A lot of people who use orthotic insoles have foot or heel pain they want to relieve. Some use insoles to help support their recovery from a lower body injury, while others use them to make their shoes more comfortable as they’re moving around throughout the day.

The challenge is found in figuring out how to choose orthotic insoles for you. It can get overwhelming trying to find the right orthotics for your feet when there are so many options. Below, we have mapped out a step-by-step guide to help you narrow down your search.

Are you purchasing for yourself or for a child?

If you’re looking for insoles for your child to restore proper mid-foot and forefoot alignment and support the arch, our Children's Size Insoles are what you need. These insoles have built-in arch support and are ideal if your child has flat feet, improper alignment and balance, excessive motion or muscle fatigue, or other foot pain and discomfort.

If you’re searching for the right orthotics for yourself, the next step is to decide if you need full length insoles or 3/4 length insoles.

Do you need full length insoles?

Full length insoles extend the entire length of the foot and can replace worn out insoles in your shoes. If you wear a wide width shoe, you’ll want to go with the Wide Fit Full Length Insoles for maximum cushioning and support. If you’re suffering from Morton’s Neuroma or other pain in the ball of your foot, or need metatarsal relief, Insoles with Met Pads offer maximum cushion and 100% support.

If neither of these apply to you, the next step is to decide how much support you need from your insoles.

Maximum Support Orthopedic Insoles

If you require as much support and cushioning as you can get from your insoles, there are a couple options available to you.

• PowerStep Maxx Insoles are ideal for preventing and alleviating pain associated with moderate over-pronation, plantar fasciitis, and other common foot conditions. These specific insoles work for both casual and athletic shoes.

• PowerStep Pinnacle Hiker Insoles are specifically for athletic shoes and to use on rugged terrain. They offer firmer arch support and heel cradle for stability on uneven surfaces, as well as maximum cushion during rigorous activities.

Moderate Support Orthopedic Insoles

If you want a good balance of support and flexibility with maximum cushion in your athletic shoes, these are your go-to orthotic insoles:

If you want maximum cushion but only need insoles for your casual, everyday shoes, these orthotic insoles can help:

If you only need moderate support and moderate cushioning, you have two options to choose from:

• The PowerStep Original Insoles have a fundamental design that provide the support needed to prevent and alleviate pain from many foot conditions like plantar fasciitis.

• The PowerStep Pinnacle Dress Insoles can be for both dress and casual shoes, offering full support with unparalleled comfort.

Minimal Support Shoe Inserts

If you just need insoles that provide maximum cushion with no rigid arch support, the PowerStep ArchLite Insoles are for you. These insoles are an ideal alternative to arch support insoles if you need more cushioning and less support.

If you don’t need full length insoles, your other option is 3/4 length orthotics.

Do you need 3/4 length orthotic inserts?

Unlike full length insoles, 3/4 length insoles extend from the ball of the foot to the heel and are ideal for dress shoes and shoes that have non-removable liners. Finding the right 3/4 length insoles for you comes down to the amount of support you need:

• Maximum cushioning: SlenderFit Insoles are great for women who want increased comfort and protection in their heels, pumps, boots, and sandals. PowerStep PULSE Sport 3/4 Insoles are designed for use in performance athletic shoes that may not have a removable insole or already fit very tightly.

• Moderate cushioning: The PowerStep Pinnacle Dress 3/4 Length Insoles offer built-in arch support and help alleviate pain or discomfort from many foot ailments like plantar fasciitis.

Still not quite sure which insole is the right one for you? Try out our famous Insole Finder! Orthotic insoles can help prevent and relieve foot pain, and ultimately make your feet more comfortable in your shoes day to day. If you're less of an online digital shopper and would prefer to talk to somebody to help you make the decision, a quick visit to your local foot health specialist is never a bad first step, or you can always call our amazing customer service team at 888.237.FOOT(3668)!