Without insoles, any kind of shoe, whether athletic or not, is bound to become detrimentally uncomfortable. Now, if you are a fan of boots, then you could be worse off than other folks who wear other casual or formal shoes.
How is that possible?… Let’s answer that.
Unlike ordinary shoes, work boots are meant to be used in some of the most demanding environments. Many people with such shoes are either concrete workers, linemen, hikers, or industrial workers.
The extreme conditions they work in necessitate the need for ultra-comfortable shoes. After a while, their insoles and outsoles breakdown, and they are ultimately exposed to experience uncomfortable heel and foot pains.
By buying the best insoles for work boots, you can restore their comfort and make your work day less disappointing and more fun. There are thousands of boot inserts on the market. While most are solely meant to provide comfort, some do much more.
If you are out and about looking for a reliable boot insert, our top recommendations are Timberland Pro Men’s Anti-fatigue Technology Insole. However, of course, you can check out the rest of the selections for something that is best suited to your particular needs. Let’s dive into the reviews section.
Best Insoles for Work Boots
If you are out and about looking for the best insoles for work boots, the chances are you are doing plenty of the guessing game.
So we figured that by putting together a list of the top recommendations, your work would become far easier. Check out the list below and see if there is something worth stashing into your work boots.
1. Timberland Pro Men’s Anti-fatigue Technology Insole
Timberland Pro insole is made by a premium footwear company. Just like you believe in Apple or Samsung products, this is one insole that will not betray your faith.
Timberland is a leader in the shoe industry and values the needs of its consumers.
Work boots take a lot of hard pounding. The conditions they work in are gruesome, and that is why this insole packs the best tech to make your day bearable. Its superior comfort and energy-returning aptitude are derived from anti-fatigue technology.
The insole structure consists of breathable open-cell foam, antimicrobial lining, and moisture wicking properties. Its anatomy is contoured so that it can cradle your foot, thus providing the best feeling. It’s this contouring that makes an insole fit virtually any foot shape.
Top features
- Synthetic sole
- Anti-fatigue upgrades
- Shock absorbing foam
- Energy-returning capability
- Works well for a wide variety of boots
- Anatomically-contoured footbed
- Moisture-wicking
- Antimicrobial properties
Pros
- Perfect for a wide variety of work boots
- Sufficient energy returning
- Marvelous shock absorbing insoles
- Stunning quality
- Adequately padded for demanding environments
- Enhanced technology
Cons
- Could use more heel padding
Timberland PRO puts the needs of those who work in demanding environments at the top. Its structure entails top-level tech that boosts comfort to a whole new level. And the best part-it fits perfectly in a wide variety of boots.
2. Powerstep Pinnacle Shoe Insoles
This is one of the most bought insoles in the shoe market and it for a reason. Like the Swiss Army Knife, this tiny footbed contraption is exceptionally versatile. It’s usable with many types of shoes from the super casual varieties to work boots.
Without being undesirably bulky, Powerstep Pinnacle Shoe Insole incorporates a dual layer of cushioning for better comfort. This is further dialed a notch higher through the addition of foam.
There is more; this insole fabric lined with a breathable antimicrobial fabric. This helps to keep your feet cool and odor-free.
That pretty dope for those whose feet can’t stop sweating. Lastly, this insole is ideal for managing both extreme and moderate feet pains.
Top features
- Semi-rigid arch support
- Motion control cradle
- Antimicrobial fabric
- EVA foam base
- Dual layer cushion
- Fits as expected
Pros
- Maximum cushioning
- Flexible arch support
- Contoured for stability and motion control
- Prevents foot pains such as plantar fasciitis
- Extreme versatility
Cons
- There is nothing severe worth reporting
With Powerstep Pinnacle Shoe insole, the proof is in the reviews. This orthotic has thousands of reviews-most of which come with a 5-star rating. If such an overwhelming number of people have found it to be reliable, you could too.
3. Sof Sole Insoles Men’s ATHLETE Performance Insert
Most of the time, when you buy boot inserts, there are two things that linger in your mind; will they fit properly? Will I find them comfortable? Guess what, Sof Sole Men’s Athletic Performance Insole provides affirmative answers to these questions.
Their structure bears lightweight Implus foam cushioning that makes them not only comfortable but less bulky. There is gel both at the heel and forefoot to absorb shock because these areas happen to take a lot of heat.
The top fabric lining is meshed and has antimicrobial elements to keep your feet both dry and free from odor. The coolest thing about Sof Sole Athletic Performance Insoles is that some can be trimmed to achieve a proper fit.
Unless you have extreme arch problems, you will have no problem with Sof Sole insoles. Their arch is neutral to fit nearly any feet. It’s also flexible and thus gentle on your feet.
Top features
- Gel padding
- Neutral arch design
- 100% Implus foam
- Moisture-wicking fabric
- Some varieties can be trimmed
- Fits as expected
Pros
- Available in trim-to-fit options for a hustle free fit
- Lightweight cushioning
- Athletic grade cushioning
- Keeps one’s feet dry and odor-free
- Designed to fit in a wide variety of shoes
Cons
- Sof Sole Men’s Athletic Performance Insoles have very few negative reviews because of their exceptional performance
Sof Sole Men’s Athletic Performance Insole (as the name implies) is an athletic insole with substantial mettle for providing superior comfort. It does this so well without being a bother-that is, weighing too much or failing to fit. It’s got impressive ratings too.
4. Superfeet Green Insoles
If you own hiking boots or athletic shoes that have thinned out cushioning, you can breathe life into it them Superfeet Green Insoles. These insoles are colorful, classic, and designed to provide maximum support and comfort.
It’s one of the few insoles in this review crafted for those with extreme arch issues. So if you have either excessive pronation or supination, the deep heel cup together with the stabilizer cap will confine your leg into the best position for comfort.
These insoles are made from synthetic material and high-density foam. Their toughness and thickness will allow them to endure extreme pounding for many months. The top fabric is lined with organic odor-control elements to keep bacteria at bay.
Top features
- Professional grade high arch
- Unisex insole
- Organic odor control
- Deep heel cup
- Stabilizer cap
- High-density foam
Pros
- They sport a durable construction
- Highly comfortable thanks to the dense foam
- Offer reliable foot support
- A unique structure that promotes stability and motion control
- Reasonably priced
Cons
- There is nothing too critical about these insoles worth mentioning
Superfeet Green Insoles are incredibly comfortable, top-grade, relieve arch pain, and fit as expected. Here are the best part-these boot inserts have the biggest number of positive reviews (thousands of them).
5. WalkHero Plantar Fasciitis Insoles
One of the biggest issues with work boots, especially the uncomfortable ones, is that you can develop feet problems quickly. Linemen, concrete worker, and hikers know this better. A risk-free insole that could improve their comfort is WalkHero Plantar Fasciitis Insole.
This pair is quite different from the rest. Its premium-grade comfort and support allow it to offer relief from a wide variety of feet illnesses. So if you suffer from bunions, plantar fasciitis, arthritis, and pronation, this is the insole to go for.
Its anatomy consists of a deep heel cup, 7mm arch support, pure antimicrobial fiber, and high-density foam. The heel is constructed with silicon and EVA materials to improve shock absorption.
Tips: You might be like work boots for plantar fasciitis to avoid foot pain.
Top features
- Deep heel cup
- Incorporates EVA and foam
- Caters to many feet problems apart
- Designed for work boots and casual hiking boots
- Several color options
- Fits as expected
Pros
- Sufficient arch support
- Top-level comfort that caters to those with plantar fasciitis
- Tremendously affordable
- Fosters correct foot positioning/alignment
- Lasting comfort
- Its company has a friendly return policy
Cons
- WalkHero Plantar Fasciitis Insoles work great and have very few notable drawbacks.
WalkHero Plantar Fasciitis is one of the best work boot insoles that offer reliable comfort and arch support. Given that it caters to those with tender feet, almost anyone will find them comfortable.
The most encouraging thing is that the company has a friendly return policy. This makes these insert risk-free.
6. NAZAROO Orthotic Insoles for Flat Feet
NAZAROO Orthotic Insoles aim at attenuating common foot pains like overpronation, plantar fasciitis, and minor heel pains. They are designed for individuals with flat feet and therefore not ideal for those with high arches.
Even though the heel is contoured to improve stability, their level is not sufficient to cater to those with supination problems. However, NAZAROO insoles are extraordinarily cheap and work great at amplifying comfort.
Their structure entails premium like EVA foam for comfort and silicon cushioning in the heel for better shock absorption. While they are not bulky, they sport multi-cushioned layers that provide tender loving care to the feet.
NAZAROO Insoles can fit in almost every kind of boot without the need for trimming. The top fabric is capable of absorbing sweat so your feet can remain dry. However, nothing can cease to matter if a company’s return policies are unfriendly. Guess what; these insoles have a money back guarantee in case they don’t meet your expectations.
Top features
- Unisex boot insoles
- Medical-grade inserts
- Deep heel cradle
- Moisture-wicking fabric
- Cushioned heel support
- EVA foam
Pros
- Extra-comfortable orthotic
- A footgear to relieve feet problems like plantar fasciitis, pronation, and other heel pains
- Fits many formal and casual boots
- Pressure-relieving arch support
- Cheap but functional insert
- Fits as expected
Cons
- They don’t provide sufficient arch support
- Only for flat feet and thus not contoured to handle other feet types
NAZAROO Orthotic Insoles are one of those footwear products that you go for when you want something that works well without being unreasonably costly. These inserts are meant to boost comfort for those with flat feet. By the way, they have glamorous reviews and ratings.
7. JobSite Power Tuff Anti-Fatigue Support Insoles
Working with employer-provided boots can quite a pain in the butt. These shoes usually have terrible insoles that are super thin with zero support and mediocre cushioning. But you don’t need to worry anymore because there is a better solution.
JobSite Power Tuff Insoles are uniquely engineered inserts that integrate anti-fatigue technology into their structure. What this means is that anyone with feet, ankle, and knee problems can benefit from their comfort.
Despite having multiple layers of cushioning, the heel comes with a special semi-rigid pad for improving support and stability. If you have raised arches and minor supination, these insoles will squeeze your feet back into proper positioning.
JobSite insoles are also of athletic quality thanks to plush polyurethane foam. The top covering is laced with both antimicrobial and antibacterial properties to combat stinky and sweaty feet.
Top features
- Polyurethane foam
- Heel cushioning pad
- Arch support
- Deep heel cup
- Microbe-shielding technology
Pros
- Versatile to work with both work boots and casual shoes
- Designed to offer substantial arch support
- Top quality, odor-free fabric that doesn’t rub on the feet
- Relieves common pains like bunions and heel spurs
- Lightweight and durable
Cons
- Unless you have extremely painful feet, you will find JobSite Power Tuff Insoles to be almost perfect.
JobSite Power Tuff Insoles are precisely what they claim to be- comfortable, anti-fatigue inserts with pain relieving capacity. They should work well for those in need of arch support. Furthermore, they don’t cost an arm and a leg.
8. Keen Utility K-20 Cushion Insole
If you are a fan of Keen, then maybe you have used their preceding version-K10. You’re probably wondering how K-20 is different from K10. Well, here is the answer: The former is an upgrade of the latter. As you would expect, the upgrades made it a bit more expensive.
Keen delivers reliable comfort for those who spend the better part of the day standing or walking on concrete. However, it doesn’t offer arch support for those with high arches. Instead, it only caters to those with standard feet shape (neural arch).
This insole features synthetic material that is porous to prevent overheating. It’s cupped from the heel to the middle (arch region). This design hugs the feet so one can achieve a proper gait.
Top features
- Synthetic material
- Cupped back half
- Breathable fabric
- Fits as expected
Pros
- It’s an affordable insole
- Sufficient cushioning for concrete workers
- Breathable fabric that combats stinky feet
- Cupped heel for stability
- Fits just as you would expect them to
Cons
- Anti-bacterial treatment
- Arch support
- Motion control tech
Keen Utility K-20 is a basic insole that fits as expected. It delivers sufficient comfort and is recommended for those with standard feet shape. Let’s just say; it’s the right choice for those who might not want extremely fancy insoles with tech that might be problematic to them.
9. Carhartt Insite Technology Insole
Carhartt Insite Technology Insole is one of the most advanced insoles that sport practical footwear technology. Its design was achieved after reviewing 120,000 3D foot scans. Do you know what that means? It means this could be the one insole that can deliver supreme comfort.
Its anatomy further incorporates unique compression and rebound abilities that make walking a bit less straining. For those who spend numerous hours on their feet, this insoles dual foam layering helps to mitigate pain associated with standing.
The top comes with a breathable, anti-slip suede covering to give your feet the best snug fit. Like other varieties in this review, this insert is cupped in the heels-a feature that provides not only a better fit but improves stability and gait as well.
Top features
- Unique compression technology
- Engineered from 3D foot scans
- Dual foam layers
- Suede top cover
- Deep heel cup
- Unisex design
Pros
- Provides unmatched comfort and fit
- Rebound abilities that make walking easier
- Slip-resistant thanks to the suede covering
- Fits as expected
- Loaded with anti-fatigue technology and hence ideal for prolonged use
Cons
- Zero arch support
Carhartt Insite Technology Insole’s design entails a good number of the most needed premium features like the heel cup, foam, and anti-fatigue technology. Inserts with such features can cost a lot, yet this one is still affordable.
However, those with extreme cases of pronation and arch problems may not benefit optimally like those with typical feet.
10. Red Wing Heritage Comfort Force Footbed
Red Wing Heritage Insole joins a band of other practical boot inserts with exceptional comfort and molded arch support.
These two features, when combined with the moderate heel cup, makes this insole adequately advanced to provide relief for those who work in demanding environments.
There is also good news for those with stunningly sweaty feet. This insert’s top fabric is made from suede and has the power to wick out moisture so you can stay comfortable an entire work shift.
Read also: Top 10 Work Boots for Landscaping
Top features
- Suede fabric covering
- Perforated fabric
- Slight heel cup
- Molded arch
- Polyurethane material
Pros
- Able to manage moisture
- Fits impeccably
- Superb shock absorption material
- ample support and stability
Cons
- Doesn’t last very long
- It’s a bit costly when compared to other cheap, yet advanced varieties
Red Wing Heritage can make your plastic-hard boots feel great again. It’s undoubtedly comfortable with superior shock absorption materials. However, there are many better insoles that should come first. This one would serve better as an extra pair for rainy days.
Things To Keep In Mind While Looking Insoles For Work Boots
There are many reasons why you need insoles. It could be to make your shoe fit better, improve comfort, or provide arch support. No matter the reason, there are a few things you need to keep in mind while looking for insoles. Here are a few of those factor:
Comfort
The core reason we invest in insoles is to boost comfort in shoes that perhaps lack that. Generous cushioning eases pressure from even the most delicate feet. FYI, such orthotics are either gel or foam based.
Pay attention to the insole material as that will determine its feel. The common materials are gel, foam, leather, and cork. While we root for gel and foam, the truth is, each has its pros and cons.
Durability
This will depend on the type of material used and the insole thickness. Typically, an insole should be operational for six to nine months before it cooks up. If you are always on your insoles, or you bear considerable weight, it might take less than six months.
As soon as the insole starts losing its support or cushioning, it’s time to grab another one. As a rule of thumb, high-end insoles tend to last far longer than mid and low variety ones.
Your feet condition
Before sellers sway you into buying anything, ask yourself this, “Why do I need insoles?” This will help you to keep your needs to the fore.
If you have arch problems, then your priority is an orthotic that caters to that. However, if you have several issues plaguing your feet, then you could be better off with custom insoles rather than the off-the-shelf varieties.
3D insoles are an excellent option for those with bigger problems and for a certain reason, they can’t get doctor-made insoles. These orthotics sport the latest technology and can fit onto your contours thereby helping you to stand up straight and walk better.
Ease of cleaning
We are all sensitive to bacteria. Therefore, it would be great if you get a removable insole that is easy to clean. Not all the materials are going to respond to water, vinegar or other easily available detergents.
Nevertheless, synthetic materials and foam are the easiest to wipe dirt off them. While shopping for an insole, be sure you know how it’s cleaned to avoid messing with its structure.
Support
Do you have severe cases of pronation? If your leg overpronates or supinates in the ankles, you could benefit massively from rigid outsoles. Their structure is composed of firm materials like ABS and polyurethane that push the ankle back into the proper position.
Rigid outsoles can come in either traditional make or 3D models. The latter is costly. To counter discomfort, foam and other plush microfiber components are usually incorporated into their DNA.
Breathability
Boots can get uncomfortably hot due to the extreme nature of their work conditions. Insole makers understand this, and that is why most of them are porous to allow for breathability.
On top of that, it pays if the top fabric can wick away moisture to enable quick drying. Drenched boots suck, anyway. It’s also a big plus if the insert material can possess antimicrobial and anti-bacterial properties to combat stinky feet.
Stability/Motion control
We don’t spend a lot of energy while taking another step. However, once you try out energy returning insoles, you will never be able to operate without them. Such inserts consist of rebound material that makes walking quite effortless.
As for stability, only shoes that have a deep heel cradle can promote stability and proper gait. The depression created cupped heels sinks the feet a little deeper to avoid any movement-including those who have pronation and supination problems.
Frequently Asked Questions
This section takes a look at some of the FAQs about insoles. Check them out to increase your knowledge of insoles so you can make better decisions:
Q. How can I choose the right insole?
A. It all depends on the condition of your feet and shoes. Is your heel slipping? Do the boots rub on it? For these two cases, a simple gel half insole could things better for you. Note that the half insole will not offer support or comfort to the front end of the shoe.
If there is too much space in your shoe that it won’t stop moving, go for the full insoles. If they are extra thin or flat, you could use them alongside those already in the shoe. If the boot gets too tight, do away with the old pair.
If you have severe heel pain or ball-of-the-foot pain, and other painful feet conditions, try the heavily padded insoles that feature either gel or foam.
Q. What’s the best way to care for insoles?
A. Taking great care of your insoles will prolong their life, which means many happy days for your feet. First things first. If you wear orthotics daily and your feet happen to sweat a lot, it would be a good practice to get them out of the shoe so they can breathe and dry up.
Secondly, you can hand wash dirty insoles once in a while, using the recommended detergents. Leave them to dry completely before stashing them in the shoe.
Q. What feet conditions could benefit from the support of insoles?
A. Besides amplifying comfort and gaining a proper fit, insoles can be a solution to various feet problems. The common ones are bunions, calluses, hammertoes, heel pain, diabetic feet, over pronation, over-supination, plantar fasciitis, and differences in the length of the leg.
Q. How do I buy the right insole size?
A. Getting the right insole size starts by knowing both the length and width of your leg. Most online retailers have measurement charts that will help you to figure out your exact size. If you are not sure about what you need, then buy those that can be trimmed.
Conclusion
Owning work boots is the first step to better workplace experience. But the journey doesn’t end there; after a couple of months of hard use, even the best insoles for work boots get conked up
There are two ways to get your boots cushioning upgraded-by either buying new boots or investing in the best boot insoles. We root for the later because shoe inserts cost as little as a dollar and a few cents.
We have provided you with several heavily rated insoles that are worth considering. If you have normal feet (devoid of arch and pronation issues), virtually any of them will serve you. However, if you have special conditions, make sure the insert you buy features a mechanism to lessen your problems.
Related Reviews:
Additional Resources:
- Insole Advisor, by drscholls