The best insoles in the UK 2023

Orthopedic insoles are padded inserts that are placed inside these shoes. They give back the pleasure of walking and running to people suffering from heel or foot pain. In our buying guide, we give you the right criteria to take into account as well as a list of the best orthopedic insoles of the moment.

PCSole Premium Eva 1
9/10

Editor's picks

PCSole Premium Eva

The best orthopedic inserts in 2021

The PCSole brand is a master in the art of designing orthopedic insoles. This model is one of the most requested products.

15,18 £ on Amazon
CosyInSofa The arch support 2
7/10

Best value

CosyInSofa The arch support

The best entry-level orthopedic inserts

Here is a pair of orthopedic insoles specially adapted for flat feet. They are designed to provide maximum comfort and support.

10,39 £ on Amazon

Once again, CosyInSofa designers have demonstrated their expertise in designing solid orthopedic insoles adapted to the needs of people with foot pain. Plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendonitis, shin splints and knee pain, the effects of these ailments will be lessened thanks to these particularly ingenious models. Indeed, these insoles follow the current trend and offer functions that meet a wide variety of needs.

Light, resistant and comfortable, this pair of orthopedic insoles is designed to offer maximum support while optimizing the user's comfort. This pair is intended for walkers and other people who move around quite frequently in their work. These insoles require 3 days of adaptation to generate optimal results but this can vary from one user to another. Professionals recommend changing the insoles every three months to continue to enjoy the benefits of pedestrian health.

Pedag Viva 187 3
8/10

Best premium

Pedag Viva 187

The best high-end orthopedic inserts

Are you looking for the most comfortable, strong and versatile orthopedic insoles? Look no further than Pedag Viva 187.

19,96 £ on Amazon
RooRuns 3/4 4
8/10

Excellent

RooRuns 3/4

The alternative

With a length of 3/4, the RooRuns orthopedic insole optimizes foot comfort. It is, moreover, equipped with a cushion that relieves plantar fasciitis.

See the price

Ideal for everyday use, the RooRuns orthopedic insole covers 3/4 of the arch of the foot. It is the ideal solution for foot and heel conditions such as flat feet, plantar fasciitis, foot, arch and heel pain or arthritis. The EVA manufacturing material allows these insoles to be particularly effective.

Thanks to its cushion, this sole optimizes the position of your toes. This is why many hikers and athletes use these insoles in their shoes. With the RooRuns 3/4, you can forget about discomfort and discomfort in the foot. This pair is available in 3 sizes.

Buying guide • November 2023

Best insoles

Any specific needs?

The best orthopedic inserts in 2021

The best entry-level orthopedic inserts

The best high-end orthopedic inserts

The alternative

Your guide : Samuel

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Comparison table of the best insoles

TOP OF THE TOP LOW COSTS TOP OF THE RANGE Excellent
PCSole Premium Eva 5
9/10
CosyInSofa The arch support 6
7/10
Pedag Viva 187 7
8/10
RooRuns 3/4 8
8/10
OUR SELECTION
PCSole Premium Eva
CosyInSofa The arch support
Pedag Viva 187
RooRuns 3/4
The PCSole brand is a master in the art of designing orthopedic insoles. This model is one of the most requested products.
Here is a pair of orthopedic insoles specially adapted for flat feet. They are designed to provide maximum comfort and support.
Are you looking for the most comfortable, strong and versatile orthopedic insoles? Look no further than Pedag Viva 187.
With a length of 3/4, the RooRuns orthopedic insole optimizes foot comfort. It is, moreover, equipped with a cushion that relieves plantar fasciitis.
Material(s)
Premium Eva Material (Soft Velvet, Cork, PU Foam)
Carbon fiber, Velvet, Cork
Soft leather
Eva
Size
35/36 EU
36/39 EU
39 EU
36-38 EU
Applications
Heel pain, arch pain, plantar fasciitis
Plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendonitis, knee pain
Plantar fasciitis and knee pain
Flat feet, plantar fasciitis, knee pain, arthritis
Comfort
Color
Black
Yellow
Natural beige
Blue

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Buying guide - insoles

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How to choose your insoles

Buying insoles that don't fit your needs can do more harm than good. Pay close attention to these details before choosing:

#1 - Practicality is not always beneficial

Some manufacturers can offer to make your insoles without making you leave your home. They propose to send you a piece of printing foam directly in a box. You are invited to put the impression of your feet in the said foam and to send the resulting impressions to make your orthopedic insoles. Unfortunately, a poor impression of the impression in the foam can incorporate your foot's dysfunctional biomechanics into the design of the insole, so without a professional or experienced podiatrist to properly position your feet in the foam, your orthotics can worsen your dysfunctional biomechanics instead of correcting them.

#2 - Pay attention to the type of supplier

To get orthotics, there are two options: either get them by prescription from a podiatrist who will custom make the insoles themselves. Or buy insoles manufactured in series, generally proprioceptive insoles. The advantage of custom-made orthopedic insoles (by a podiatrist) is thatthey are reimbursable. Unlike proprioceptive insoles.

#3 - Years of experience

Finding the right orthotic is not always easy. It takes years of experience to learn the intricacies of making custom orthotics that meet both your functional and comfort needs. If you can't afford to have custom insoles made, choose a brand with a long history of success to increase the chances of finding the right insoles the first time you buy.

Not for children!

Under the age of 12-14, orthotics are only appropriate if the child's legs are not the same length and are several centimeters apart. The use of orthotics too early may compromise the proper development of the arch during adolescence. They could then generate even more imbalance.

#4 - The budget

Once

you get clarity on what you really need, think carefully about the budget you can spend on your new orthotics. This will make it easier for you to make your choice.

Maintenance is essential

Replacement insoles usually last about 12 months for daily or regular use. This can be extended to several years if you have a pair of insoles that you only use occasionally.

Air them out: sweaty or wet feet? Remove insoles regularly to allow moisture trapped between the sole and the shoe to dry.

Wash them: if necessary, hand wash the insoles with a mild detergent or sports detergent and air dry before reinserting them.

Inspect: Periodically remove and inspect the soles for signs of deterioration and replace as needed.

The different types of insoles

There are 3 main types of orthopedic insoles: the classic ones, the cushioned ones and the semi-custom ones.

Classic orthopedic insoles

This type of orthopedic insoles is made from elements that are shaped to provide relief to the patient. This type of insole is designed so that it can have a direct action under the foot.

Benefits:

  • This type of insole helps distribute pressure on the soles of the feet.
  • They are easy to use: simply remove the original insoles from your shoe and slip in the traditional orthopedic insoles.
  • Some insoles may include antimicrobial technology to repel odor-causing bacteria.
  • These types of insoles are known to be comfortable.

Disadvantages:

  • Conventional insoles do not provide ideal support. They are generally designed to provide just enough comfort, but cannot meet all needs.
  • Therefore, they are not suitable for people who have to stand or walk for most of the day.

Who is it for?

This type of insoles is mainly for people who have drooping arches, flat and low arches or who suffer from plantar fasciitis.

Cushioned orthopedic insoles

This

type of orthotic insoles provide additional cushioning for extra support. They are usually made from soft materials such as gel or foam.

Benefits:

  • This type of insole can provide additional support.
  • They are usually designed in a honeycomb shape which allows them to absorb impact and relieve pressure points.
  • Some cushioned insoles may include antimicrobial technology to repel odor-causing bacteria.

Disadvantages:

  • They provide soft to overly soft support.
  • Since this type of insole does not provide a solid base under the feet, it can exacerbate pain.
  • They provide only short-term comfort.

Who is it for?

Cushioned insoles are suitable for those who do a lot of walking and running, or those who suffer from foot fatigue or have shin splints.

Semi-custom orthopedic inserts

Semi-custom insoles are a comfortable option in that they offer more customized features than the generic over-the-counter inserts you find at the drugstore or supermarket. Semi-custom inserts are also much less expensive than prescription custom inserts.

Benefits:

  • They meet a variety of needs and are designed for different arch heights.
  • They offer firm support and adjustability. Be sure to choose insoles that provide full contact from one end of your arch to the other to get the full benefit.
  • They offer a comfortable but firm fit.
  • Provide adequate arch support
  • Relieve stress points on your feet and heel.

Cons:

  • Your foot muscles work less because your foot is supported by the insole. This can be good for pain relief in some cases, but if you wear orthotics for years in all your shoes, it will make your feet much more fragile.
  • They are an investment that can be quite expensive.

Who are they for?

This type of insoles will suit people who need insoles for specific needs: people with diabetes, arthritis or other health problems.

Ask your doctor for advice

Insoles, whether semi-custom, over-the-counter or prescription, should not replace seeing your doctor or podiatrist if you have foot problems. In fact, pain can be a symptom of other more serious conditions that may require medical attention.

Custom orthopedic insoles or mass-produced insoles?

Serial soles

At first sight, orthopaedic insoles in series do not really belong to the orthopaedic inserts. Rather, they are comfort inserts that have been specially designed to absorb the shock caused by contact with the ground. They reduce pain in the heels and at the same time relieve joints and pressure. They can be used for daily needs at work, while walking or when standing all the time. Its biggest advantage is its very affordable price.

However, the limitations of the serial orthopaedic insoles are quite discernible. On the one hand, they are a standard type and work very differently on each person. If some people feel the beneficial effect immediately, others may complain of pain in their feet before they can get used to them. Also, they do not always work with all shoes.

Custom-made orthopaedic insoles

Another alternative is to turn to custom-made orthopedic inserts. From their name, these are insoles adapted to those who wear them. As each person's morphology is unique, the vast majority of patients ask for custom-made support. This is why complete postural examinations of the foot precede the manufacture of these insoles. In addition, they must be adapted to your morphology and can therefore be slipped into all your shoes.

Everything suggests that in the short term, these insoles ensure your comfort and the protection of your feet. In the long term, you will obtain an excellent recovery, because your joints will not be too much solicited. Their small drawbacks being that these insoles often have a rather average lifespan and their replacement cannot be done lightly, because the opinion of a doctor is always required.

Verdict

American studies have shown that personalized orthopedic inserts are not necessarily more effective than over-the-counter or semi-custom inserts. This is despite their cost. The only real advantage is that personalized insoles, made on prescription, are reimbursed by the social security.

Medical prescriptions

The effectiveness of orthopaedic inserts can therefore be questioned. Except for certain categories of people for whom they may be indispensable: people suffering from osteoarthritis of the knee, osteoarthritis of the hip, as well as diabetics.

Why buy an orthopaedic insole?

To relieve foot muscles

The orthopaedic insole has a special shape that allows it to fill the gaps between the foot and the ground. Manufactured using a foot moulding technique, it perfectly fits the shape of the foot. It thus offers optimal relief for the foot muscles.

For more comfort

The orthopaedic insole creates a real comfort zone for your feet. It provides an extra soft layer between you and the ground. It provides excellent protection against being crushed by angular objects such as rocks.

To protect your feet during physical activities

During physical activities, the orthopaedic insole absorbs shocks. It protects your foot from joint and muscle pain that can be caused by an impact. It also relieves the knee, hip and back.

To compensate for uneven leg length

The wearing of orthopedic insoles is prescribed to correct a difference in leg length of more than 2 centimetres. Its thickness will compensate for this inequality of length of the lower limbs. It will also remedy the back pain generated by this inequality.

To eliminate bad smells

The orthopaedic insole is removable and washable. By removing it, your shoe benefits from excellent ventilation to avoid bad odours due to accumulated perspiration. Its cleaning guarantees a perfect hygiene to your foot.

To relieve your back

The orthopaedic insole can also relieve some back pain by exerting pressure on strategic points of the foot that are connected to the lumbar area. You will feel a great relief, it is as if a huge weight was lifted from you and you will have a much better posture afterwards.

To cure knee pain

The orthopedic insole can also correct colors in the knee. By wearing a thicker insole, you won't have to take anti-inflammatory drugs or at least decrease the dose, for a healthier healing process.

The best brands of insoles

In our opinion, the best brands of insoles in 2022 are :

Edensoles
SOFSOLE
Sidas
Superfeet
Spenco

Edensoles is a very young American brand that is renowned for its technology that is unlike any other: dynamic customization that adapts directly to the shape of the feet. We particularly appreciate its practicality and unparalleled comfort.

This brand was established in 1991 and has quickly become a market leader in athletic shoe accessories. They offer a wide range of products including insoles, socks and shoes. We appreciate the functionality and comfort of their products.

Sidas is a world-renowned French brand created in 1975. It is particularly renowned for its innovative products: Special Innovation Award as early as 1996, OUTDOOR Awards in 2011 and ISPO Awards in 2008 and 2013. We particularly appreciate the quality and accessibility of their products.

Superfeet is a Canadian company founded in 1985. It is well known for its orthopedic insoles and shoe inserts. The insoles from this brand offer extra support to keep your feet cool from the moment you slip into your shoes until the end of the day, and we like them for that reason.

Spenco was founded in 1967 by Dr. Wayman Spence. The brand's mission is "to help people around the world achieve more comfortably". It is particularly appreciated that it produces insoles and foot care products based on medical research.

What is the price insoles

The diagram below will help you to get an idea of the typical prices for each price range (entry-level, mid-range and high-end).

However, more expensive does not necessarily mean better.

We therefore advise you to always consult our ranking before deciding, rather than blindly relying on price ranges.

Entry-level
10 £ to 15 £
Mid-range
15 £ to 30 £
High-end
more than 30 £
Price range diagram

Tips

Check the material of your sole.

Some insoles contain latex, so check carefully for latex allergies.

Make sure your shoes have enough room for insoles.

If

you have diabetes, you are at high risk of developing corns, calluses, and other skin lesions on your foot, which can lead to diabetic wounds if your shoes are too tight. If you must use insoles, make sure they don't cause skin damage from pressure.

Check the arches of your feet.

To

test your arches, get your feet wet and walk on a concrete sidewalk. If you see full impressions of the bottom of your feet on the concrete, you probably have flat feet. If you don't see your arch print, you have hollow feet. Choose your insoles with this in mind to get the most comfort.

Cut your soles properly.

Take

your regular insoles and use them as a pattern to cut out your orthotics. This way, you will be sure not to make a mistake with your measurements.

If possible, use hot-molded orthopedic inserts.

Hot-molding makes it easier for you to customize your insoles. To mold your insoles, put them in a preheated oven at 90° for 2 min then remove them and put them directly in your shoes to be molded. Don't hesitate to put your feet in as well. Finally, do not use a microwave oven.

FAQ

What is the best orthopaedic insole?

The best orthopedic insole depends on your needs and budget. Read our buying guide to find out which products are the best at the moment.

What is an orthopaedic insole?

It is an insole designed to align the foot and ankle in the most anatomically efficient position. They look like simple insoles, but are biomechanical medical devices that are custom made or sold in mass merchandisers and drug stores to correct a specific imbalance in the foot.

Who needs custom orthotics?

These are people who have localized foot pain, bunions, hammertoes, arch or heel pain. They are also suitable for people with leg pain, knee pain, hip pain, back pain and even neck pain.

Do I have to wear my insoles all the time?

The more you wear your orthotics, the more benefits you will get. If your daily activities vary to the extent that you change shoes, you should have a second pair of custom orthotics designed for that specific activity.

What type of shoes do I need for my insoles?

In most cases, any shoe with a removable insole will work. Simply remove the insole that came with the shoe and replace it with the custom orthotic.

Sources

Note: Below are some of the sources we have consulted in writing this article. Links to other sites are not continuously updated. It is therefore possible that a link may not be found. Please use a search engine to find the desired information.
  1. , bestreviews.com
  2. , nytimes.com
  3. , travelandleisure.com
  4. , verywellfit.com
  5. , outdoorgearlab.com
  6. , goodhousekeeping.com
  7. , thewirecutter.com
  8. , theinsolestore.com
  9. , nih.gov
  10. , pslc.ws
  11. , amazon.co.uk
  12. , podologie.ooreka.fr
  13. , doctissimo.fr
  14. , podexpert.com
  15. , topsante.com
  16. , total-sante.com
  17. , podologue-sport-paris.com
  18. , scholl.fr
  19. , lasemellefrancaise.fr
  20. , kinepod.com
  21. , semelles-orthopediques.fr
  22. , orthopedique.org
  23. , neut.fr
  24. , amazon.co.uk
  25. , fairfeet.fr
  26. , ossium.fr
  27. , ebay.fr
  28. , podiatis.fr
  29. , semelle-chaussure-dijon.fr
  30. , thepressfree.com
  31. , podologie.ooreka.fr
  32. , mutuelles-pas-cheres.org
  33. , smartfeet.fr
See more

Updates

March 2022 : Translation of this buying guide from our partner meilleurtest.fr

See more
Our selection
PCSole Premium Eva 9
PCSole Premium Eva
CosyInSofa The arch support 10
CosyInSofa The arch support
Pedag Viva 187 11
Pedag Viva 187
RooRuns 3/4 12
RooRuns 3/4

Lecteurs

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