Do you spend the entire day on your feet? It gets quite uncomfortable. That’s the nature of many shoes. Even the most expensive ones will thin out and feel like plastic. If you have so many bucks on you, the first thing you might think about is to grab a new pair of kicks.
Quick question-why deflate your bank account on new shoes when you can replace the insole?
Yeah, that’s right. All it takes is a new insert, and your shoe will feel as good as new. However, that’s not all. You need to know what purpose the insole is for. Is it for addressing painful conditions such as plantar fasciitis? Do you want it to hug your arches? Or is it for boosting comfort?
In this article, we are going to show you some of the best shoe Inserts for standing all day. We’ll also talk about types of insoles and pointers on how to make sober buying decisions.
No matter the condition of your feet, you are going to find something that is tailored to handle your needs.
For those in a hurry or any reason you can’t scroll through the entire article, check out our top recommendation- Samurai Insoles Instant-Relief Orthotics for Flat Feet.
Best Shoe Inserts for Standing All Day
Top Insole Selections
As you surf through this list, bear in mind your needs. Now, without wasting a minute, let’s take a plunge into the best picks worth trying out:
1. Samurai Insoles Instant-Relief Orthotics for Flat Feet
The simple design of Samurai Insoles Instant-Relief orthotics makes them suitable for everyday use. This could include running for groceries, walking your dog, and other casual strolls.
These insoles are seriously versatile- a single pair can be slid into your sneakers today, and tomorrow they are in your comfortable moccasins or any other shoe, for that matter. You take them anywhere you want, and they’ll deliver the same exceptional performance.
With thousands of satisfied customers, there is no going wrong with Samurai Insoles Instant-relief. They are ideal for improving comfort, healing plantar fasciitis, and other minor foot pains.
It should be a relief to know that these insoles fit as expected. No need to cut them. If you love colorful items, then these will get you smiling.
Desirable features
- Radiant color
- Medical-grade orthotics
- Made for flat feet
- Lightweight
- Podiatrist-designed
Pros
- High-grade structure
- Simple yet colorful
- A lightweight design
- Versatile to fit in any shoe design-be it a sneaker, boot or moccasin
- Fantastic support
Samurai Insoles Instant-Relief are almost perfect at providing relief from standing all day. There are no severe downsides to report.
Samurai Insoles Instant-Relief Orthotics are biomechanically engineered to handle fallen arches, painful feet, and plantar fasciitis. They are lightweight, colorful, and fit precisely as you would expect them to.
2. Sof Sole Insoles Men’s ATHLETE Performance Shoe Insert
Superior quality and affordable pricing are two things that never occur together most of the time. You either get a cheap substandard product or a better quality one at a high cost.
Sof Sole ATHLETE Performance Shoe Insert is a premium quality product that comes with a cheap price tag. As an athletic performance gear, it has been designed to provide lightweight cushioning for extreme shock absorption.
The contours of this insole gently hug every section of your feet with the heel and forefoot area boasting extra padding that creates a little bump. These areas receive much pressure, and that’s why they need to have more meat.
The gel material is responsible for the long-lasting cushioning and support. Do you wade in wet and muddy environments? No need to worry. This insert’s material wicks away moisture, which ultimately reduces odor built-up.
Desirable features
- Foam and gel
- Contoured arch
- Hydrologix moisture-wicking
- Available in several full-length sizes
- Full-length insole
Pros
- Fits as expected
- Massive cushioning
- Lightweight structure
- Wicks away moisture
- Rebuff’s odor built up
Cons
Honestly, this insole is hands down one of the best shoe inserts for standing all day. No serious drawbacks.
Sof Sole ATHLETE Performance Shoe Insert is one of those wearable products you buy online with confidence because you know they’ll fit. This insole is designed for cross-training shoes, walking, running, and other casual strolls.
3. New Balance 3810 Ultra Support Shoe Insole
New Balance is one of the top makers of sneakers. If you are their loyal fun, New Balance 3810 Ultra Support insole might impress you. The structure of this insert is insanely comfortable.
Unlike conventional insoles with a boring model, this one is a little unique and colorful with special pads etched in the heel and forefoot. These are the main pressure zones, and that is why the pads have been placed there to switch comfort a notch high.
The insole is entirely made from synthetic material and hence unquestionably breathable. Its anatomy includes an extra deep heel cup for hugging the heel and air vents that channel air in and out of the shoe.
The anti-blister top cover is also a useful feature, especially for those with tender feet. New Balance 3810 Ultra Support fits perfectly without the need to trim it.
Desirable features
- Anti-blister cover
- Abzorb cushioning
- Extra-deep heel cup
- Synthetic
- Airflow channels
Pros
- It provides athletic performance cushioning
- Has multiple use cases
- Offers critical heel and arch support
- Well-ventilated to prevent sweating and odor built-up
Cons
- Could use more arch support
If you have tried acupuncture, heel shots, and other exercises without your feet getting better, New Balance 3810 Ultra Support Shoe Insole could be the magic bullet to your pain. This insole caters to those in need of extreme comfort and arch support.
4. Physix Gear Sport Full Length Orthotic Inserts with Arch Support
These are some of the best shock absorbing insoles we’ve come across for individuals with flat feet. Their construction involves the softest fabric that is further enhanced through the addition of PU and EVA foam.
When you step on Physix Gear Sport Full Length Orthotic, the tender loving care you receive has no example…we are not exaggerating this. And if you need proof, then we’ll happily tell you that the insole is FDA & CE-approved.
The top layer bears anti-microbial properties to minimize the growth of odor and bacteria. The heel, on the other hand, is deepened to offer better stability than other flat feet orthotics.
Furthermore, their non-slip structure gives them a robust functionality, which is ideal for those who do plenty of running, walking, and working. These medical-grade shock-absorbing insoles provide relief from many feet conditions, including plantar fasciitis.
Desirable features
- Deep heel cradle
- Low profile design
- Anti-microbial top fabric
- Superior material that includes EVA foam and PU
- Mild arch support
- Dual layer foam
- Non-slip and ergonomic
Pros
- Superior breathable material
- Their design pushes stability to the net level
- FDA & CE approved
- Superb cushioning and shock absorption
- Reasonably priced
- Multifunctional and non-slip
Cons
- These insoles don’t have serious cons. However, those with painful feet conditions could look around for heavily padded versions.
Anyone with flat feet can significantly benefit from Physix Gear Sport Full Length Orthotic Inserts. Their design provides an unparalleled level of cushioning and shock absorption. These inserts are suitable for walking, running, and fixing conditions like plantar fasciitis.
5. Spenco Unisex Comfort Insole 2 Pack
Spenco Unisex Comfort Insole 2 Pack is ideal for individuals seeking comfortable insoles for flat feet. At first glance, it’s easy to dismiss this insole as flimsy. Guess what; they are not.
This insole consists of several layers of SpenCore fabric, a patented technology that guarantees top-level comfort. Its super lightweight structure integrates the much needed antimicrobial technology for healthy, odor-free feet.
The unisex and straightforward design of Spenco Unisex Comfort Insole 2 Pack is somehow cost-saving. You could use this insole in any shoe from sneakers, mocs, to work shoes and boots. Your better half can use them too in case they are lying idle.
Desirable features
- A lightweight Spenco fabric
- Unisex insole
- Flat feet design
- True to size
- Silpure antimicrobial technology
Pros
- Fits as expected
- Adequately comfortable
- Affordable
- Extremely lightweight
- Rebuffs odor and bacteria
Cons
- Zero arch support
- Lack of superior cushioning
Spenco Unisex Comfort Insole 2 Pack is an ideal grab for anyone who needs a simpler insole for flat feet that doesn’t cost an arm and a leg. The cushioning is not so dense and does not anticipate any arch support. Let’s say it’s a decent purchase that should not last a very long time.
6. Dr. Scholl’s WORK Massaging Gel Advanced Insoles
Some of us would only feel safe in products or orthotics that are doctor-approved. If you are of that mentality, you might love Dr. Scholl’s WORK Massaging Gel Insoles. As the name suggests, these insoles are insanely advanced and comfortable.
Their anatomical structure entails a massaging gel technology that provides top-level padding for all-day shock absorption. The insoles are raised from the arch to the heel forming a “cup” shape that hugs the feet tenderly. They offer superb arch support.
Dr. Scholl’s insoles are designed to keep you on your feet for long thanks to the tiny perforations that allow air regulation. You can bid overheating adieu and enjoy your day even if the temperatures are over the roof.
Desirable features
- Massaging gel technology
- Airflow technology for temperature regulation
- Contoured columns for arch and heel support
- Responsive-wave cushioning
- Designed for sneakers, work boots and casual shoes
Pros
- Superior shock absorption
- Clinically designed for reducing muscle fatigue in feet
- Reinforced arch support
- Cooling vents to regulate temperature
- Extra forefoot cushioning
- Money back guarantee
Dr. Scholl’s WORK Massaging Gel Advanced Insoles are suitable for individuals who spend most of their days standing. They work well with sneakers, casual shoes, and work boots.
7. Powerstep Original Full Length Orthotic Shoe Insoles
Athletic and work duties do take a toll on the feet. In order to concentrate better, you might want to grab yourself a pair of Powerstep Original Full Length Orthotic Shoe Insoles to ramp up your shoes dimming comfort.
The technology making up these insoles is (as kids would call something awesome) sick). They pack a dual layer of VCT cushioning that is strategically spread-out and thickened in the toes and heels. The padding is dense and thus reliable for tough days.
Their ultra-thin design integrates semi-rigid arch support, which together with the heel cradle provides profound relief to many feet problems. The cradle style does improve stability, as well.
These polyurethane insoles are tremendously lightweight and fit exactly as expected. So forget about trimming. They work well with boots, sneakers, and other casual closed shoes.
Desirable features
- Heel cradle
- Polyurethane (PU) fabric
- VCT (variable cushioning technology) dual-layer cushioning
- Ultra-thin profile
- Semi-rigid arch support
- Usable in sneakers, work shoes, and casual kicks
- Antimicrobial top fabric
Pros
- They are incredibly comfortable
- Reliable arch support and stability
- They work with a wide variety of shoes
- Lightweight
- Affordable
The percentage of negative reviews on Amazon and other online platforms for Powerstep Original Orthotic Insoles is negligible. That’s a sign that nothing is depressing about them.
Powerstep Original Full Length Orthotic Shoe Insoles are suitable for providing top-notch comfort. Their caressing touch alleviates feet problems like arch pain, metatarsal pain, plantar fasciitis, sores, heel pain, arch pain, and moderate pronation.
8. Envelop Gel Insole
Envelop Gel Insole is by far the cheapest insert that provides insane cushioning. This product proves that you don’t have to spend a lot to get the best. Its construction entails a massaging gel that is super effective at absorbing shock.
The flexible nature of this insert alleviates pain and helps its wearers to enjoy their day time activities without the need to persevere. The gel is expansive in the heel and the metatarsal region, the two areas that receive the most impact.
Envelop Gel Insole is made from a lightweight silicone gel and hence less burdensome. Furthermore, its versatile engineering makes it a must-have insole that gets into all your shoes.
Desirable features
- Made from lightweight silicone gel
- Firmer gel cradles
- Honeycomb design
- Ergonomic contours
- Neutral arch
- A versatile full-length insole
Pros
- lightweight construction
- Extensive cushioning
- Contoured layers for improved stability
- Versatile to be used in any shoe design
- By far the cheapest insole with incredible abilities
Cons
- It moves around
- You probably will have to trim it
Envelop Gel Insole is one of the best shoe insoles for standing on concrete all day that won’t break your bank. It’s a nifty choice for people with manageable foot pain.
However, anyone with diabetic feet and other painful issues should check out other extremely comfortable options in this article.
9. Miscly Gel Comfort Insoles (1 Pair)
Miscly’s Gel Comfort Insoles For Walking & Standing is a suitable replacement for your already worn out inserts. They are premium-level inserts with stupendous padding that makes walking on concrete less painful.
Like other varieties in this review, these insoles sport an ergonomic honeycomb design and a deep heel cup that promote stability. The PU material used also happens to be non-slid to prevent unwanted motions.
Gel Comfort Insoles For Walking & Standing have numerous small cooling vents that regulate temperature. This feature is so appealing for those with sweaty feet. The insoles integrate an antibacterial technology to keep your feet impeccably healthy.
Desirable features
- PU foam
- Impact absorbing gel
- An anti-slip polyester top covering
- Full-length insoles
- Ventilation holes
- Deep heel
Pros
- Dense cushioning that is ideal for standing all day
- Reasonably priced
- Prevents odor and bacteria growth
- Non-slid layers that Improve stability
- Minimizes muscle fatigue
- Well-ventilated
Cons
- Might need trimming to fit
Miscly’s Gel Comfort Insoles For Walking & Standing can give you the peace of mind that you yearn for while working or exercising. The insoles are of premium quality and thus comfortable even on the hardest surfaces.
10. DJMed Orthotic Shoe Insoles
Last, but certainly not the least, is DJMed Orthotic Shoe Insoles. These are therapeutic grade insoles that help you deal with feet pain, plantar fasciitis, and other feet conditions.
Their smashing anatomical design features ultra-soft pads in the metatarsal and heel regions to sufficiently absorb impact from your activities. The breathable fabrics encourage a healthier environment that is heat and bacteria free.
DJMed Orthotic Insoles provide reliable arch support. However, those with seriously high arches would be better off with custom varieties. If they happen not to fit, simply trim them-the material is too soft and can take a blade or scissors without resisting.
Desirable features
- Therapeutic grade insole
- Breathable base
- Antibacterial properties
- Lightweight
- Trim to fit
Pros
- Minimize foot pain
- Provides increased stability
- Proper arch support
- Consistent comfort
- Considerable pricing
Cons
- Some people may have to trim it for a better fit
DJMed Orthotic Insoles sport premium material and construction that absorbs much of the impact of daily activities. They further provide stability and arch support for those with such needs. To butter it up, these insoles are very cheap.
Now that you know some of the best insoles for walking all day, how about a look into some of the common types? Keep reading to know which design will serve your feet better.
Types of Insoles
Feet type varies, and shoes do as well. Your unique condition might necessitate that you look at a different shoe insole rather than conventional models. If you are unsure about what you need, a look at various insole types will help clear your uncertainty.
Generally, there are two types of insoles-partial inserts and full-length inserts. The latter refers to insoles that cater to the needs of a particular foot section like heel and toes. Without further chitchat, here are the most common types of insoles:
Heat-moldable Insoles
These types of insoles can be heated in the oven to conform to your feet’s physical structures. They are loved because they somehow mimic orthopedic insert-even though they are far from that.
The issue with heat-moldable insoles is that they don’t fix your problem. Rather, they take the shape of your feet’s irregularities. They will not solve pronation and other issues. Furthermore, the fact that they are moldable means they are flimsy.
Cushioned Insoles
These types of insoles feature either foam or gel and sometimes a combination of both. They are perfect for anyone that seeks comfort. Their nature makes them a top commodity.
Unfortunately, cushioned insoles don’t offer support of any form. Anyone with pronation or arch problems will have to look for insoles that are customized to handle those conditions.
Arch-supporting insoles
For those with painful arches, this is what you need to go for. These types of inserts provide medical-grade arch support that the rest can’t. You will walk and work in peace as long as you choose an insole that fits your feet’s anatomy.
Orthopedic insoles (Custom Orthotics)
All the insoles mentioned above are aftermarket grabs. They are okay, and most will work well. However, since they are not doctor-issued, there is a chance that they can fail you. The only way to be sure an insole will work is by visiting a podiatrist.
When you visit a doctor, you can get two types of orthotics-accommodative or functional. The latter is designed to handle painful conditions such as diabetes, while the former is meant to provide support and treat foot injuries and pain.
Factors to Consider Before Buying Shoe Inserts
There are things you need to know before buying insoles. If you make a blind move, you’ll live to regret. In worst cases, you’ll end up with a pair of shoes and insoles that are pretty useless. And your closet space will be jam-packed with things you can’t use.
So before you shop for insoles, we’ve compiled a few pointers to help you to make sober decisions. Here is a list of those gold nuggets:
How does wearing a wet boot/shoe make you feel? It does piss off most of us. But that just a feeling. There are annoying consequences of wearing a wet shoe for long durations. So many soldiers lost their lives in World War 1 because of drenched feet- a condition known as Trench Foot.
Do you see the image above? That’s how your foot would look like if your insole fails to absorb moisture. Besides your foot looking weird, the moisture-absorbing insole will prevent the growth of odor and bacteria. The will also be dim chances of blisters emerging.
You might be like our guide waterproof walking shoes to avoid your feet getting wet.
Great adaptive arch support
If you have arch problems, and your shoe happens to be inadequate at solving that, you can resort to custom insoles. No need to buy a new pair of shoes. An insole with adaptive arch support will flex and conform to your arches, thus relieving you of pain as you take a step.
Adaptive insoles tend to have an appropriate amount of thickness that makes them comfortable for pain-relieving. What this means is that they are effective without being unnecessarily bulky.
Metatarsal lift
If you suffer from pain at the ball of the feet or toes, then you could use an insole with a metatarsal lift. Such insoles slightly lift your toes while providing ample cushioning to the ball joint. This will take away much of the pain and help you walk erectly.
Acupressure
After walking or standing for several hours, you are likely to feel tired. Acupressure insoles can handle this kind of pain by providing insurmountable relief. Such inserts feature raised contours that target all the pressure points.
Heel lift
As the name suggests, heel lift inserts are simply insoles with a raised heel pad. Their slanting position tends to take the pain away from the ball of the feet, calves, and knees. They come in varying thickness, so be sure to pick what works well for your condition.
Cushioning material
Buying a pair of all-day standing shoes with excellent cushioning may help to prolong hours duty. However, who wants to spend luck when you can get the best insoles to fulfill the same purpose.
This could be the primary reason why you are scouting for the best insoles. Heavy cushioning is ideal as long as it doesn’t make the shoe appear bulky.
The presence of massaging gels and memory foams is usually a good indication of cushy inserts. Typically, such technologies provide reliable cushioning for those who work on concrete floors or stand for the better part of the day.
Be very cautious with the material you choose. Not all serve the same purpose. Foam relieves pressure, and the gel absorbs shock, cork provides support and leather offers better cushioning.
Frequently Asked Questions
Lack of adequate info about insoles can hold you back from making the best decisions. In this section, we will address a few FAQs and their best answers so you can get informed. Keep reading.
Q. What foot conditions could benefit from insoles?
A. Shoe inserts can help fix a bunch of feet, like bunions, underfoot calluses, hammertoes, and diabetic-related conditions. It’s also said that these inserts can get even out legs if one is slightly longer than the other.
It doesn’t end there; custom orthotics shoes insole are also a solution for more problems like over-pronation, over-supination, plantar fasciitis, Morton’s Neuroma, and weight issues.
Q. Which insole is better, off-the-shelf or custom?
A. Well, most people (including podiatrists) would argue that the custom ones are better off. Sure, it’s true because a doctor issues them, and thus will undoubtedly work.
The off-the-shelf varieties tend to be cheaper and of high-quality, of course. But there are a few things you must do to avoid ending up with unpleasant experiences. For instance, you need to know what purpose the insole is for and the right size to order.
Q. How long do I need to use an insole?
A. Normally, an insole should be replaced after three to six months of use. This duration can vary depending on the quality of the insole. However, you should replace a shoe insert the moment it starts to wear or lose its support and cushiness.
The Don’ts of Buying Insoles
While buying insoles, there are a few sins you should not commit. Let’s slide through a few of them.
Don’t:
- Buy insoles for damaged shoes-insoles are meant to improve comfort or fix an issue that a normally functioning shoe can’t. If your boot or sneaker is damaged, get another pair.
- Purchase ultra-soft varieties-if you buy the softest insoles thinking that they provide the best comfort, you need to think again. They’ll lose their juice in a few weeks, and you’ll go back to shop for another pair.
- Buy a wrong size- trimming insoles to fit you is recommended. However, you can avoid that by shopping for the right size.
Conclusion
There is a vast collection of insoles-so many that you can get confused about which one to choose. As you already know, only the best shoe inserts for standing all day will give you the truest peace of mind.
You can’t afford custom orthotics? No need to worry.
Most of the options you’ll find in this review are an economical solution that will suffice. Given their top ratings and glimmering feedback, you can rest assured of medical-grade arch support, pain relief, and long-term comfort. Happy shoe insole hunting!
Relative Reviews:
Additional Resources:
- How to Size and Cut Shoe Insoles, by instructables
- Everything You Need to Know About Insoles, by shoezone
- How to Choose Insoles,by REI