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Our expert gear testers rounded up 12 of the best insoles available today to discover the best comfort and stability for walkers and runners. In addition, we evaluated them for people who are just on their feet all day or suffer from common injuries like plantar fasciitis or overpronation.
No other insole was performed across all our tests as well, such as the Superfeet Hike Support. It's one of the most expensive models we tested and worth it. If you are looking for cushion and comfort and want to save some money, consider the Spenco Polysorb Cross Trainer.
Editor's Note: We updated this review on November 7, 2024, to add four new products, revisit the testing and analysis of seven previously tested models, and incorporate new media showcasing that work.
Deep heel cup, H.I.T. (Heel Impact Technology) pod
Deep heel cup
Deep heel cup, zero drop
Deep decoupled heel cup, zero drop, shock absorption pad
Deep heel cup
Spencore heel cushion plug
Deep heel cup, shock absorption pad
Deep heel cup, Poron Vive performance pod cushion
Deep heel cup
Shock absorbing heel cup
N/A
Additional Forefoot Support
N/A
N/A
Optional metatarsal
support pad
Targeted rebound forefoot cushion
N/A
SBR forefoot cushion
Metatarsal
support pad
Poron Vive performance pod cushion
Metatarsal
support pad
N/A
N/A
Moisture & Odor Prevention Treatment
Moisturewick top layer
Moisturewick top layer
Polygiene top layer
Mesh top layer
Odor-control polyester top layer
4-way stretch with Silpure antimicrobial top layer
Velvet, breathable top layer
Cleansport NXT odor control top layer
Polygiene StayFresh technology top layer
None listed
4-way stretch with Silpure antimicrobial top layer
Materials
Dual-layer cushioning foam, carbon fiber cap
High-density foam
Open-cell synthetic foam, EVA base
Foam
Foam top/EVA base
Polysorb polyurethane foam
Foam
PORON foam, high-denstiy EVA made from bio-based carbon, ACT (Active Cushioning Technology) open-cell PU cushioning, blended with NANO bamboo charcoal and green tea powder
The Superfeet Hike Support is our favorite all-around insole due to its superior comfort, support, and durability. We took it straight from the box and slid it into the shoe with no trimming necessary. The insole features a structured, firm arch support and a deep heel cup that stabilizes the foot and absorbs impact, reducing strain and enhancing comfort on uneven terrain. Its high-density foam provides excellent shock absorption, protecting joints and muscles during long treks. Additionally, the moisture-wicking technology keeps feet dry, preventing blisters and discomfort. A lot of attention to detail has been paid to the design of this insole, and we were impressed by its features and construction. Superfeet also offers a 60-day satisfaction guarantee, reducing the risk for those seeking reliable support but hesitant to invest too much for a test drive.
As with most semirigid insoles, the Superfeet Hike Support takes a bit of time to break in, during which it may feel stiff or uncomfortable. We found that it took a solid week of wear until it felt molded to our feet. Additionally, although it does have a bit of cushion, the firm arch support and mid-range cushioning might leave some wanting more. We also found the insole to be a bit wider in the toe box and not fit as well in narrower shoes. Although the premium price of the insole might cause some to look elsewhere, we feel that the Superfeet Hike Support is well worth the money for an insole that will keep your feet happy both on and off the trail. We also tested the Superfeet Hike Support Women's version to see how they compared and if there is a need to get gender specific when making a purchase. Our findings showed the two are essentially the same insole except for a couple of differences in the fit in the Women's model that specifically target a narrower, smaller foot. For those who've got high arches and need substantial support, we would point you to the Superfeet All-Purpose Support High Arch for maximum results. Or, if you want something with a more custom fit somewhere in between, the heat-moldable Sole Active Medium is a great choice.
Taking the Superfeet Hike Support insoles out for a spin on varied terrain to see how our feet hold up.
The Spenco Polysorb Cross Trainer insoles are specially constructed for athletic users in need of additional padding and are ideal for high-impact sports. However, they are also a great option for budget-minded folks seeking additional comfort or those looking to reduce the impact on their feet and knees from average day-to-day scenarios. The forefoot of the insole, just under the toe, employs 0.6 centimeters of padding; at the heel, it increases up to 2.25 centimeters and includes a cushioned heel plug. This combination does a great job of limiting the shock produced by running and other athletic pursuits, allowing the user to add more miles before feeling fatigued. The insoles have a 4-way stretch fabric with Silpure antimicrobial technology, which helps prevent blisters and controls odor.
The Spenco Polysorb Cross Trainer features lightweight polyurethane foam and no rigid components, meaning it only provides semi-moderate arch support. Folks who have a condition requiring a firmer arch might want to consider a high-arch model like the Superfeet All-Purpose Support High Arch or the EasyFeet Black Model. The Spenco Polysorb Cross Trainers don't offer any rigid components at all, and the lightweight design means the foam is prone to wearing away over time, making the pair less durable than some of the competition. They are also flimsy in nature, which makes it rather tricky to slide them into your shoe. That said, they deliver a high level of cushioning at an affordable price, making them a great insole for individuals seeking comfort on a budget. Another reasonably inexpensive insole that comes with a bit more rigidity is the Oboz O Fit Plus II, a great all-around performer with a small amount of cushioning plus moderate arch and footbed support.
You need two hands to insert the Spenco Polysorb Cross Trainer since it's a soft and flexible insole.
At first glance, the Superfeet All-Purpose Support High Arch might not seem that impressive. They lack the advanced padding and appearance of other support insoles. However, in our tests, we discovered that this classic style provides superior daily support and works well with nearly all shoes. If you spend long hours on your feet working in a restaurant or hospital, need extra arch support to keep plantar fasciitis at bay, or simply want more supportive foot care than your current insoles can offer, the Superfeet All-Purpose Support High Arch is our top choice. We love that the narrow shape fits well into running shoes, casual shoes, and hiking boots, leaving enough room for your foot to slide in comfortably. Since they are not overly padded, they're almost unnoticeable once inside. The classic foam forefoot and strong plastic arch and heel structure kept our feet well-supported and feeling good during testing.
Of course, the Superfeet All-Purpose Support High Arch isn't for everyone. If you don't require significant arch support, you will want to consider something that is less pronounced. The Superfeet Hike Support is our favorite medium-to-high set for long days on our feet or foot-heavy outdoor pursuits, while the Sole Active Medium is an excellent choice to fight plantar fasciitis with its customizable fit, and the Currex RunPro comes in varied arch options, so you can select exactly the level of support you require. We also note that the Superfeet All-Purpose Support High Arch doesn't come with abundant amounts of cushion as some other models we tested provide. Of course, our testers note relief from cushioning is not what these were created for; they are built to deliver support, and they succeed in that endeavor quite well. Another complaint is the cost. None of the Superfeet are budget options —- you'll pay for their superior performance. Plus, they're only designed to last for 500 miles or around 12 months (whichever milestone is crossed first). So, you need to plan for the cost of replacement down the line. If you're looking for high arch support but don't want to splurge, check out the EasyFeet Black Model, which runs a bit heavier but gives similar arch support at a more affordable price. Another option for reasonably strong arch support and a nice underfoot cushion at a lower price is the Oboz O Fit Plus II.
Weighing the Superfeet All-Purpose Support High Arch insole.
The Sole Active Medium pain relief orthotics are designed to specifically target the areas affected by plantar fasciitis, which is an inflammation of the plantar fascia — a fibrous tissue that connects your heel bone to your toes. This foam-cushioned EVA insole is an excellent choice no matter what arch height you may be working with, as each molds to your foot for a custom fit. Its medium-thick 0.4-centimeter padded support not only enhances comfort but also contributes to better balance and natural foot alignment by evenly distributing weight and pressure. There is a zero drop from heel to forefoot, which, when combined with its heat-or-wear moldable fit, may help reduce stress on the knees and improve posture and gait. Furthermore, the design incorporates Polygiene antibacterial technology to keep the insoles feeling fresh and odor-free, even with regular use.
While we eventually enjoyed wearing the Sole Active Medium insoles, it took quite some time to break them in. Out of the box, they are very stiff and solid underfoot. Our test team noted it takes about a full week of wear to achieve a satisfactorily comfortable fit, “A process that can feel very similar to what one might experience with a custom orthotic.” They're also higher-volume and take up more space, making them better for boots or work shoes and less suitable for tight-fitting shoes. Someone who suffers from plantar fasciitis might want extra support in all of their shoes to help prevent pain. Since this pair is not easy to switch in and out of shoes due to their size, volume, and lack of rigidity, it's possible the inconvenience will prove too much of a hassle, and the insoles won't end up being used as broadly as intended. But if you tend to rely on a single pair of favorite wide-ish shoes, you won't find much room for complaint. And since they are sold with a 90-day satisfaction guarantee, you can take some time to try them out before settling on a final decision. Looking for an insole to alleviate plantar fasciitis that isn't individually customizable but won't require time to be broken in? The PowerStep Pinnacle insole is comfortable, cushioned, and ready to go straight out of the box. Or, if you need heightened support but the cost of the Sole Actives is prohibitive, you may find the relief you seek and some savings with the EasyFeet Black Model or Oboz O Fit Plus II models.
A close-up view of the unique moldable Sole Active Medium insole.
Bamboo and charcoal for moisture-wicking and odor-control
Triple support under the ball of foot, arch, and heel
High-quality
REASONS TO AVOID
Expensive
SPECIFICATIONS
Arch Support Options (Tested, If Multiple)
Choice of low, medium, high (medium)
Weight Per Pair
1.41 oz
Arch Height (Measured )
1.5 cm
Cushioning at Toe (Measured)
0.40 cm
Cushioning at Heel (Measured)
0.40 cm
The Currex RunPro are German-designed insoles made specifically for runners. Those who enjoy this high-impact sport, or others like it, often suffer from foot and knee injuries such as plantar fasciitis, shin splints, and runner's knee, all physical ailments that may require extra support to alleviate pain, reduce fatigue, and improve performance. While we always recommend consulting with a medical professional before taking steps to treat and avoid injuries, a well-built insole like a Currex can be just what many running enthusiasts seek. Each semirigid insole incorporates triple support under the areas of the foot most impacted during a run, including the arch (offering your choice of support — low, medium, or high), a cushion under the ball of the foot, and another cushion at the heel for shock absorption. You will also find a 2-centimeter decoupled heel cup and zero-drop design to help stabilize the foot and facilitate responsiveness to the road. These insoles are also made of high-quality foam and a mesh top layer for long-lasting performance and moisture control even under heavy use.
It is not unexpected that a sturdy, high-performing product comes with a substantial price tag, and the Currex RunPro lives up to that expectation as the most expensive insoles we tested. These are best suited to serious runners who log a lot of miles and need high-quality, reliable support with arch-specific models to match individual needs. If this sounds like you, then the Currex RunPro will not disappoint. If the price outpaces your footwear requirements, there are other options to choose from. The Oboz O Fit Plus II is a sporty model that delivers medium-to-high arch support with extensive cushioning that sells at just over half the cost. The Dr. Scholl's Run Active Comfort insoles can't offer nearly as much arch support, nor are they going to prove equally as durable, but they sell at a fraction of the cost and can be a great budget alternative for runners in need of moderate cushion and support.
Checking out the sweet, run-specific design of the Currex RunPro insole
The Spenco RX Comfort is specifically designed to be used in conjunction with custom orthotics, providing extra cushioning where it may be lacking. If a podiatrist has made you a stiff orthotic to help with arch support, chances are high that you've also removed the original insert from your shoes and lost whatever cushion it provided. The result may not be as soft and padded as you'd like. Enter the Spenco RX Comfort. This insole brings just enough extra comfort to help reduce stress on feet, joints, and muscles, as well as additional shock absorption to reduce fatigue. With its thin profile and low-volume design, it doesn't add much bulk to your shoes. The insole's top layer features Spenco's 4-way stretch fabric, minimizing friction and helping to prevent blisters. Additionally, the breathable material promotes airflow, reduces moisture buildup, and keeps feet cooler and more comfortable throughout the day. Affordable and versatile, this insole is a great option for those seeking to improve upon their personalized orthotics.
It's important to note that the Spenco RX Comfort insoles are not designed to provide any arch, heel, or footbed support. Each is essentially a piece of flexible foam padding that really only provides support when paired with custom orthotics. It is also very thin, and we noticed the foam began to wear down over repeated use. So, you may need to replace them fairly often if they become integral to your footwear comfort. That aside, the Spenco RX Comfort insole is a great choice for anyone seeking a small amount of extra cushioning for long days on their feet. Another option for an insole with very few frills is the Spenco Polysorb Cross Trainer, which essentially focuses on added cushioning (0.6 centimeters at the toe and 2.25 centimeters at the heel) plus extra support under the arch (1.4 centimeters) but with no rigid structure underfoot.
The Spenco RX Comfort is a single piece of foam and a great addition to your custom orthotics.
Credit: Whitney Clark
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Taking a break from our hike to soak in the scenery
Credit: Whitney Clark
How We Test Insoles
To figure out which insoles we should test, we delved into the footwear accessories market, conducting hours of research to clarify the styles, brands, and varied features on offer. Once we settled on a diverse selection, we purchased each pair of insoles for side-by-side testing. Each was then tested independently for over ten days. Our test team experimented by putting each insole into all different types of footwear and went on hikes, walks, and runs on both pavement and trails to adequately assess the support, fit, and feel of each pair. Our test team evaluated all insoles on feet that have a medium arch and are currently healthy and pain-free. It is important to note that individual experiences with each insole may differ depending on the size and shape of the foot, the height of each arch, and whether or not the user suffers from any current or chronic foot conditions. Anyone considering an insole to address a physical ailment or performance issue should consult their personal medical team to ensure professional evaluation and individualized care.
We tested each set of insoles across 5 rating metrics:
Comfort and Fit (30% of total score weighting)
Cushion (20% weighting)
Arch Support (20% weighting)
Footbed Support (20% weighting)
Construction and Durability (10% weighting)
Why Trust GearLab
Our main testers for this review are Miya Tsudome, and Whitney Clark. Miya has relied on insoles for over a decade to help provide comfort and support. From her early days playing soccer to her later years working in the restaurant industry, spending 10+ hours on her feet, and now to her long days hiking out into the backcountry, she has walked through many pairs of insoles and brings a considered, holistic approach to her testing and assessments. Whitney, in turn, has spent countless hours hiking and climbing in the mountains, where the comfort and support of her feet are crucial to long days out. She's found that the included insoles in most shoes usually just don't cut it, and adding extra support is key to keeping pain and muscle fatigue at bay. It can also be a valuable tool to help avoid new injuries from developing in the knees, hips, back, or even the head and neck. Whitney's past experience with a knee injury gives her particular insight into the benefits of quality foot support, especially while hiking, which informs her rigorous experimentation with numerous brands of insoles to ensure a comprehensive, high-quality review with honest results.
A close up view of the Superfeet Hike Women's Support insoles.
Credit: Whitney Clark
Analysis and Test Results
Each set of insoles was tested and analyzed according to five different metrics: comfort and fit, cushion, arch support, footbed support, and construction and durability. We remind you that insoles come in all shapes and sizes, with some geared to deliver extra cushion while others are intended to provide more structured support or relief for foot-related ailments. While this review can serve as a guide for assessing the best over-the-counter insoles on the market, if you suffer from foot pain, it should not be a replacement for professional medical advice from an expert in foot care. Read on below for our in-depth review of how the insoles we tested measured up in each metric.
An insole for every occasion!
Credit: Whitney Clark
REMINDER
Whenever adding new insoles to a shoe, remember to take out the original insoles before you insert the new ones. If not, you are likely to have far too much volume for a comfortable fit, and the two insoles may end up working against one another, producing unintended results.
If you are not used to arch support, it is recommended that you give your feet time to adjust to your new insoles, starting with shorter periods of wear and extending that time to longer stretches each day thereafter before you decide the insoles are not for you.
What's the Best Value?
We believe that a good pair of insoles should always live in your shoes, considering they can provide significant benefits like added comfort, extra support, fatigue reduction, and an improvement in overall foot health. No matter which shoes they are placed inside — your everyday favorites, work boots, dress shoes, or athletic footwear — insoles can improve the fit, reduce discomfort, and even help prevent injuries. You also don't have to spend a ton of money to take advantage of the benefits of an insole. While a more expensive model may offer the increased structure, features, and strength of construction, other choices exist that can do a reasonable job in most areas for a fraction of the price. Such considerations are especially worthwhile if you are planning to add insoles to several pairs of shoes or if you just want to make a minimal investment for a specific purpose or for a shorter period of wear time.
It's important to find an insole that meets your specific needs
Credit: Whitney Clark
The Spenco Polysorb Cross Trainer is a budget-friendly option that will give your feet a ton of cushion but only a minimal amount of support to improve stability. If you have a standard neutral arch and just want to increase your underfoot padding, they are a great place to start. If you need more significant structure but need to keep an eye on the price, the Easy Feet Black Model sells for a mid-range price and specifically targets high arches; plus, it includes a deep heel cup to keep the foot aligned and an extra heel cushion for shock absorption. Sitting right in between these two is the Oboz O Fit Plus II, with a blend of semirigid stability for medium-to-high arched feet and a nicely padded footbed at a moderate price.
The Oboz O FIT Insole Plus II sits right in the middle of the lineup, both in terms of its score and price tag, but also when it comes to the varied features it possesses: medium-to-high arch support, excellent cushioning from toe to heel, and a deep heel cup featuring a Poron Vive performance pod cushion.
Credit: Whitney Clark
The more expensive models we tested also tended to score the highest across metrics and particularly distinguished themselves when it came to their durability of construction. If you're ready to splurge on something that will last you for miles and deliver significant stabilization and relief, Superfeet insoles are worth the investment. The Superfeet Hike Support model (in men's or women's designs) or the Superfeet All-Purpose Support High Arch insoles are thoughtfully designed and well constructed, with excellent arch support and significant cushion across the footbed plus deep heel cups for improved stabilization. These are designed to hold up under extended use and come with a 60-day satisfaction guarantee to ensure they live up to that promise, which helps make their higher price tag a little more digestible. The Sole Active is another excellent, if not also pricey, option to consider, particularly if you struggle with plantar fasciitis. It is designed to mold to the unique shape of your feet through heat or wear, making it a nice mid-step between commonly fabricated insoles and the much more expensive custom inserts one might get from a podiatrist. It also comes with a 90-day satisfaction guarantee, giving you time to assess its fit and merits properly.
Comfort and Fit
We tested the fit of each pair of insoles by first assessing how well they slid into different pairs of shoes, followed by an evaluation of their impact on the comfort of the shoes when worn. Some insoles came in the appropriate size from the start, while others had to be trimmed to fit. Some were thin and had little impact on the fit of our shoes, while others were thicker, reducing the space available for our feet inside the shoe and creating a tighter, undesirable squeeze or other discomforts when worn.
Many insoles are sold in a single universal size meant to fit a range of sizes once trimmed. Once you get it home, you just follow the steps as outlined by the manufacturer to match your specific shoe size needs. However, others can be purchased to match shoe sizes straight out of the box and will slide into shoes of that same size without the need for any further adjustment. The Oboz O FIT Plus II, the Currex RunPro, Sole Active Medium, Powerstep Pinnacle, and all of the Superfeet models fall into this second group and do not require any additional trimming. For those who would like to avoid additional adjustments, these are the best choices. Most also land on the pricier end of the spectrum. But if you don't mind trimming your insoles to fit your shoes exactly, all of the other insoles we tested can be trimmed, and most cost a good deal less and come with easy-to-follow cut lines.
Trimming down the Dr. Scholl's Run Active Comfort Insoles.
Credit: Whitney Clark
Once we were able to establish an adequate fit, we looked at how the insoles impacted the comfort of our shoes and how much space remained for our feet inside. The Spenco RX Comfort went almost unnoticed and are the lightest, thinnest insoles we tested. They are designed to be used with custom orthotics and act as additional padding to slip into your shoes alongside these custom inserts. The Currex RunPro comes in at a close second for its low-volume presence. Insoles that have a zero drop from the heel to the forefoot will take up the least space in your shoes. But in all cases, we found you sacrifice the benefits of heavier padding and rigid structural support if your goal is to achieve a thin and light design.
The aftermath of our insole trimming session.
Credit: Whitney Clark
Bulky or heavy insoles like the EasyFeet Black Model take up a good amount of space inside shoes, so they're best in boots or other footwear that has a wider toebox and mid-section. The Spenco Polysorb Cross Trainer has 2 centimeters of pure cushioning in the heel, which definitely adds bulk to your shoes and even makes you taller. These are unlikely to fit inside a dress shoe or other narrow design but could be a nice option in an athletic trainer where you'll want a softer landing for your steps.
The Powerstep Pinnacle Insole is pretty low volume and didn't have a big impact in the fit of our shoes.
Credit: Whitney Clark
Cushion
While some might be looking for support from their insoles to help with proper foot alignment or avoid common injuries such as plantar fasciitis, others will be looking for insoles that improve their comfort in the form of a soft cushioned layer between their feet and the hard floor or rocky trail.
The flexible Spenco Polysorb Cross Trainer insoles have an impressive level of soft Polysorb polyurethane foam padding and a Spencore heel plug, plus an overall stretchy, nylon fabric construction. They don't offer much in the way of support, but for pure cushioning, these are the ones you want.
The Sole Active Medium insoles serve a very different need. They are cushy yet rigid, meant to bring relief to those who suffer pain from plantar fasciitis. They come with a supportive moldable arch that reduces the strain on the plantar fascia (the ligament that runs along the bottom of the foot) and helps distribute pressure more evenly across the foot. They also have deep heel cups with a zero drop for added stability. Although many orthotics have arch support, Sole Active's unique combination of targeted cushioning and stabilization features does a superior job of combating this specific problem, reducing discomfort, and promoting healing. There is even an optional metatarsal support pad if you require more cushion. Dr. Scholl's Plantar Fasciitis insoles offer much less arch support and cushioning in comparison, although they may offer some relief for those with less aggravated cases.
The Dr. Scholl's Plantar Fasciitis insole has a soft arch cushioning to help alleviate pain
Credit: Whitney Clark
All of the insoles we tested are designed to be used on their own except the Spenco RX Comfort, which is instead designed to be paired with custom orthotics. Its thin, flat cushioning is only meant to add extra support to your rigid insert and effectively absorb shock and impact to increase comfort.
The The Spenco Polysorb Cross Trainer insole has an extra heel plug for added cushioning and shock absorption.
Credit: Whitney Clark
Some insoles have firm padding like the Powerstep Pinnacle, the Superfeet All Purpose Hike Support, and the Superfeet All-Purpose Support High Arch. This may not create a soft pillow-like effect, but it does create a supportive footbed for active days. The Powerstep Pinnacle delivers firm support for the heel and arch, which helps with pronation, but it doesn't provide any soft cushion for additional comfort while standing. The Superfeet All-Purpose Support High Arch are simple, everyday insoles with excellent, rigid support and a design that keeps the foot naturally aligned, but they do not match the thick padded comfort of memory foam or silicone inserts. It is important to consider what combination is right for you, be it a firm footbed and supportive heel and high arch or a soft, thicker, more flexible base that will pad each of your steps without guiding the alignment of your foot.
A close up of the targeted forefoot cushioning on the Currex RunPro
Credit: Whitney Clark
Arch Support
The EasyFeet Black Model insoles offer superior levels of comfort and support. Their semirigid footbed and hard arches prove beneficial to those who suffer from flat feet as well as anyone managing high arches, and their cushioned, memory foam mid-layer provides soft padding with every step. The Superfeet All-Purpose Support High Arch and the Sole Active cost a bit more but performed even better in this metric and are among our favorite options for firm and structured high-arch support. They both have a rigid, deep design that helps to stabilize the foot and maintain proper alignment, which is crucial for reducing strain on the feet, ankles, knees, and even the lower back.
The Currex RunPro is excellent for runner-specific needs, providing cushion and support under critical areas of the foot while also remaining thin enough to avoid taking up too much space in your favorite running shoes. They provide support and shock absorption to the ball of the foot, arch, and heel, making the idea of logging long miles much more appealing. The Oboz O FIT Plus II has a firm, medium arch support and strikes a nice balance between flexibility and rigidity, with enough give to keep you from feeling like you're stepping on a wooden board.
The Sole Active Medium is rigid from the arch down to the heel.
Credit: Whitney Clark
While we loved the silicone layer offered by the Dr. Scholl's Run Active Comfort, its pronounced padding under our metatarsal felt strange. We preferred the Currex RunPro for the shock absorption it offers and the absence of extended padding protruding out from under specific parts of the foot.
The Currex RunPro is flexible in the forefoot and has dynamic arch technology which supports your foot and helps relieve fatigue.
Credit: Whitney Clark
Footbed Support
The Superfeet All-Purpose Support High Arch is constructed of closed-cell, high-density foam paired with a 2-centimeter deep heel cup and a sturdy stabilizer cap underneath. The combination is somewhat unique in that they seem to deliver comfort by offering comprehensive support instead of relying on heavy, soft cushioning that is likely to wear down over time.
The Superfeet Hike Support was particularly well-structured, featuring a firm, medium-to-high arch support to help stabilize the foot and maintain proper alignment, which is essential for reducing fatigue and preventing injuries over long distances. It is rigid from the heel to the forefoot and then semi-flexible from the forefoot to the toes, which allows the insole to bend slightly with your stride. A deep cup cradles the heel, offering additional support and enhancing overall foot stability by keeping your foot securely in place within the shoe. For comparison, we tested the women's Superfeet Hike Support model and found it to have a slimmer profile and narrower heel cup that better fit the contours of our female tester's foot. So, all the women out there, and anyone with narrow feet, should consider purchasing the women's specific version.
You can see the high arch support in this side view shot.
Credit: Whitney Clark
The Sole Active has a deep heel cup with zero drop, and the insole features heat and wear moldable technology, allowing it to conform to the shape of your foot. The open-cell synthetic foam-covered insole's firm yet comfortable EVA base really supported our entire foot, reducing pressure points and foot fatigue. The more expensive models we tested all scored most impressively in this metric, while those on the lower end of the scale - Dr. Scholl's Run Active Comfort, Dr. Scholl's Plantar Fasciitis, and Spenco RX Comfort - underwhelmed. All others received reasonably high scores after performing admirably in testing.
The Superfeet Hike Support are true to their name and are our favorite all around insoles
Credit: Whitney Clark
Construction and Durability
Every insole we tested had a unique construction specific to the product's goals. Some advertise a host of features, including targeted areas of padding, a mixture of materials and components to reduce fatigue and improve the wearer's experience, and claims to cure all foot pain. They may also be built with sturdier materials meant to withstand harsh abuse over time. Others are simpler in design and function — perhaps just a foam base for added cushioning — and built to meet those needs over a far shorter lifespan with materials that are more vulnerable to wear and tear in use.
The Currex RunPro Insole was one of our top performers in construction quality and durability. It was meticulously built using a triple-layer design that includes a moisture-wicking top layer for breathability, a dynamic arch support system for stability, and a shock-absorbing base for impact reduction. The durable EVA foam ensures the insoles retain their shape and don't wear down easily over time. We also found the Currex insoles dry out the quickest after getting wet.
The triple-layers of the Currex RunPro: a shock-absorbing base, sturdy arch support, and a breathable moisture-wicking top layer.
Credit: Whitney Clark
The quality of the Superfeet insoles is undeniable, and both the All-Purpose Support High Arch and Hike Support models are sleek and simple, made of high-quality materials that wick away moisture to prevent sweat from soaking in on long, hot days. We were also impressed with the construction and quality of the EasyFeet Black Model insoles, with their plush yet thin memory foam layer that covers a supportive hard arch and thoughtful heel plug for additional comfort and shock absorption.
The Dr. Scholl's Run Active Comfort insoles were disappointing in the construction quality.
Credit: Whitney Clark
Some of the insoles we tested incorporated more eco-friendly materials. The Oboz O FIT Plus II uses open-cell PU cushioning that's blended with NANO bamboo charcoal and green tea powder throughout. Although we didn't notice any specific benefits with these materials, it's nice when companies try to make less of an environmental impact.
We loved the Easy Feet Black Model insole but the cushioning under the forefoot is slightly sticky and picks up dirt easily
Credit: Whitney Clark
The Spenco RX Comfort insole was the simplest design we tested, with no additional features besides a single layer of water-resistant padding. It performed reasonably well for such a very slim product design. Made predominately of neoprene, it repels water due to the closed-cell structure — tiny gas-filled pockets that trap air and form a barrier against moisture — and prevents water from easily penetrating the insole. It is important to note if your insoles get wet, you must take them out of your shoe to dry. Keeping them wet and in the shoe can cause them to wear out more quickly, in addition to developing odor and bacteria problems.
The Spenco RX Comfort is made from one solid piece of SpenCore foam material, which we found to be durable when paired with another insole.
Credit: Whitney Clark
While our reviewers loved the Spenco Polysorb Cross Trainer insoles for their price, they do feel a bit flimsy in their construction. They have a good level of cushion out-of-the-box but lack any firmer support components and are likely to wear down quickly. The Dr. Scholl's Run Active Comfort is accessible, widely available, and inexpensive, but we found their quality isn't exactly up to the standards of other insoles we tested. We experienced issues with the reinforced arch support peeling away from the rest of the insole.
Insoles make our feet happy
Credit: Whitney Clark
How to Pick the Best Insoles for You
When choosing an insole for your unique needs, there are four important considerations to take into account: activity, support, cushion, and features. Keep in mind the fit and feel of a set of insoles can be very subjective, as much depends on foot shape, foot size, individual needs, and medical conditions. Let this review serve as a guide to help assess the most appropriate and applicable features of each model, but be sure to reach out to your personal medical care team to address specific health and performance concerns.
What Type of Insole Works Best?
Insoles are designed to address certain foot issues and provide different levels of comfort and support to meet varied needs. You may see insoles intended for sport or athletics, orthotic insoles targeted to specific issues such as plantar fasciitis and pronation, or everyday insoles meant to soften your steps with extra cushioning and carefully placed supports. If you plan on using insoles for activities such as running or hiking, an insole designed to withstand high-impact movements and shock absorption may be necessary, while an everyday insole is likely to offer more cushion and cradling comfort to account for extended periods of standing. Deciding which insoles are the right ones for you depends largely on your individual foot structure and the activities you plan on partaking in.
Choosing the right insole will depend entirely on the shape of your foot and what kind of activities you do.
Credit: Whitney Clark
How Much Support Do You Need?
One of the most important questions when deciding on insoles is, “What level of support do you need for your feet?” Assessing your arch requirements will help guide you. Folks with high arches will benefit from firmer, more structured insoles that provide sturdy support across the whole foot. Flat-footed folks may also want a firm insole with medium-to-high arch support. Overpronators will likely seek a good degree of arch support, plus a substantial heel cup for stabilization to help maintain alignment. A majority of folks have neutral arches but can still benefit from some amount of arch support and padding, especially those who keep active lifestyles and log substantial time on their feet.
Measuring the arch on the Sole Active Medium Insole
Credit: Whitney Clark
How Much Cushion Do You Need?
The volume or thickness of your insole will dictate how much space it requires inside of your shoe. This will also likely correlate to how much cushion it provides. A higher volume insole will work best in work and hiking boots or athletic-style shoes with a wider toe box and midfoot construction. They also generally serve the needs of high-arched feet best. A medium-thick insole works well with more everyday, causal shoes and often has the flexibility to accommodate a wider range of arch types. Low-profile insoles work best with correspondingly low-arched feet. They are also typically used to provide extra padding alone or minimal support in dress, casual, or athletic shoes with tight fits.
Some insoles won't change the volume of your shoes while others might cause you to loosen your laces or wear thinner socks.
Credit: Whitney Clark
What Fit and Features to Look For?
Certain features can help improve the overall fit and longevity of your insoles.
To start, consider the size. Some insoles can be ordered in your exact size, while others come with a “trim-to-fit” design. Many of these customizable options will have sizing guidelines marked directly on the insole so you can make an accurate cut with your scissors at home. Others will come in a selection of sizes and/or gender choices and may have to be trimmed without guidance. In those cases, we suggest removing one of the included insoles from your current shoes and tracing that length and shape onto your new ones to achieve precise sizing and fit. Other design elements, such as antimicrobial material to help keep the stink down and heel cups or other stability control elements to keep your feet well-positioned, are important attributes to maintain comfort on the go.
Many insoles come with trim lines to help guide you like this one, the Dr. Scholl's Run Active Comfort.
Credit: Whitney Clark
Conclusion
Whether you are on your feet for long days at work, logging miles running or hiking on trails, suffering from foot-related pain, or simply want better support in your shoes, there is an insole out there for you. We hope you find a pair from our diverse round-up of insoles for different activities and needs, and we look forward to a future of healthier, happier feet.
No matter the type of footwear, many can benefit from the added support of a high-quality insole. Whether you're lacing up the best women's running shoes or the top trail running shoes, setting out on a long-distance trek in your hiking boots, we have you covered. Check out our best socks review if you're looking for some great socks, including pairs for running, hiking, and skiing.
