8 Best Insoles For Plantar Fasciitis of 2023

For those who suffer from the condition of plantar fasciitis, the pain can become unbearable. While some who are afflicted only experience mild effects, others are in agony. The best insoles for plantar fasciitis are aimed towards relieving tension, tightness, and other issues associated with the ailment. These 8 insoles for plantar fasciitis are well-made, comfortable, and recommended by those who have used them with positive results.

RELATED: Best Plantar Fasciitis Night Splints

List of the Best Insoles for Plantar Fasciitis Reviewed

1. Speedfeet Sport Gel Insoles

Speedfeet Sport Gel Insoles

Speedfeet Sport Gel Insoles are super when it comes to absorbing shock from heavy pounds to the pavement. Created with a combination of silicone and gel that cushions and comforts the heel area, these insoles are supportive and well-structured. They are covered in velvet for a soft and smooth finish that feels good under the soles of the feet. The velvet also works to keep sweaty feet drier, leading to less friction on the foot. This can prevent blisters from popping up. Wearing these insoles for plantar fasciitis will also help with balance during exercise and walking. Speedfeet Sport Gel Insole makes living with plantar fasciitis so much more tolerable.

Pros

  • Comfortable and cushioning
  • Soft top surface
  • Supportive structure

Cons

  • Limited arch support
  • Gel can leak
  • Shifting inside shoe

2. Superfeet Everyday Pain Relief

Superfeet Everyday Pain Relief

Thicker than the brand’s other insoles and highly durable, Superfeet Everyday Pain Relief insoles are effective at alleviating the aches of plantar fasciitis. Made with a special foam and carbon-fiber material, they adapt to the wearer’s foot shape for extra comfort. Covering each insole is an antibacterial and antimicrobial solution which is useful inside a dark, damp shoe. It also stifles shifting of the foot during movement. The heel area of this insole is deeply grooved, allowing for protection from heavy or repetitive impact to the area. For pain relief that is reliable and long-lasting, Superfeet Everyday Pain Relief is a super selection.

Pros

  • Durable design
  • Foam contouring
  • Stabilizes heel
  • Odor absorbing

Cons

  • Thickness
  • Steep price

3. Footminders Comfort Orthotic Insoles

Footminders Comfort Orthotic Insoles

For those who are on their feet for a major portion of the day, Footminders Comfort Orthotic Insoles make those hours more tolerable for those with plantar fasciitis. These insoles are soft and supportive, made of comforting foam throughout. With added layers of padding on the heel, relief from pain of plantar fasciitis is reliable. The insole is pre-treated with a bacteria-resistant fabric which is not only comfortable, but absorbs moisture as well. Along with aiding in plantar fasciitis relief, these insoles are also useful for those who have flat feet, thanks to their arch supporting quality. They absorb shock and provide stabilization.

Pros

  • Good for plantar fasciitis and flat feet
  • Bacteria-resistant material
  • Extra heel protection

Cons

  • Flimsy

4. Powerstep Pinnacle

Powerstep Pinnacle

Plush and flexible, Powerstep Pinnacle full length orthotic shoe insoles are helpful for those who suffer the aggravating symptoms of plantar fasciitis. They are well-cushioned, supportive, and aid in stability within the shoe. Dual layer cushioning adds plenty of comfort and the foam base is sturdy without being too stiff. The overlying fabric is anti-microbial, moisture-wicking, and helps reduce odors. These insoles are also useful for wearers who require arch support (flat feet). Extra support in the heel area makes these insoles more efficient in absorbing shock due to impact.

Pros

  • Well-fitting
  • Good for runners
  • Reduces friction

Cons

  • Breaks down easily
  • Heel cup can migrate

5. Protalus M100

Protalus M100

Made from high-quality materials and well-designed to compliment the shape of the foot, Protalus M100 insoles are a stellar choice for plantar fasciitis sufferers. Pain and pressure is no longer an issue for those who find relief with these high-end insoles. The cushioning protects from high-impact shock that can make the pain of plantar fasciitis worse. Not only do these insoles work wonderfully for plantar fasciitis relief, but they are good for alignment and balance. The no-slip ridges keep the insoles firmly in place. The rigid heel is form-fitting and stabilizing.

Pros

  • Top-of-the-line materials and technology
  • Fits well inside wide shoes and sneakers
  • Designed to contour the foot

Cons

  • Steep price

6. Llsoarss Orthotic Insoles

Llsoarss Orthotic Insoles

Well-priced and supportive for those who are dealing with the downside of plantar fasciitis, Llsoarrs Orthotic Insoles are flexible and supportive. The semi-rigid shell is firm yet adapts to movement. Two layers of foam lend to cushioning and the top fabric is anti-microbial. These insoles also relieve other foot issues including ball of foot pain, flat feet, supination, and pronation, as well as arthritis. The heel is extra-supportive with an additional layer for superb shock protection. For those on a budget, these insoles fit the bill.

Pros

  • Price
  • Flexibility
  • Odor-absorbing/anti-microbial

Cons

  • Flatten out over use
  • Stains socks
  • Less supportive than competition

7. Tread Labs Stride

Tread Labs Stride

A deep heel and firm structure make Tread Labs Stride insoles a trusted pick for those dealing with the pain of plantar fasciitis. They come in four different arch heights allowing for a more precise fit than most insoles in their category. Foam throughout the length of the insole means all-day comfort, and a top layer of bacteria-ridding fabric kills germs and eliminates odors. These insoles are highly supportive and help with alignment and balance. They are 2-part insoles, meaning the top covers can be swapped out depending on the shoe selection and activity. Tread Labs Stride insoles are long-lasting and well-built.

Pros

  • Excellent shock absorption
  • Precise fit
  • 2-part insoles

Cons

  • Steep price
  • May be squeaky while stepping

8. Soul Insole Shoe Bubble

Soul Insole Shoe Bubble

Super small and easy to use, Soul Insole Shoe Bubble is a heel-only insert that is comfortable and cushioning on the heel area. They are made of medical-grade gel. Those with plantar fasciitis need heel relief more than any other area of the foot, so if no other issues are present, these will be a fine solution. They are self-sticking so they don’t slip out of place and won’t add much extra bulk inside the shoe. They are easy to clean and can easily slip into any pair of shoes. They are anti-microbial so they won’t stink up your sneakers.

Pros

  • Small size
  • Self-sticking
  • Flexible gel
  • Long-lasting

Cons

  • Not ideal for those with high arches
  • Don’t conform to foot shape

How to Use Your Insoles and Other Important Tips

Choose Your Insole for Plantar Fasciitis Wisely

Selecting the best insole for plantar fasciitis means doing your research before making a purchase. Each brand and style of insole is unique and has both pros and cons to carefully consider. Perhaps you can speak with your podiatrist or orthopedist for insole recommendations. While the pain of plantar fasciitis is hard to deal with, once the proper insole is selected, it can make a world of difference in your day-to-day life.

Side-note: It’s highly recommended to preform Plantar Fasciitis exercises and stretches.

You may find that the first insole for plantar fasciitis you choose is not alleviating your condition effectively. After a few wears, see if there is any difference. Sometimes it takes a few days to get used to the feeling of having an insole inside your shoe or sneaker. If there is no relief, you will want to look into another insole. It can be a hit or miss method until you find the insole that is your perfect match. Ask for advice from others who suffer from plantar fasciitis and have found relief by wearing insoles. Word of mouth may help you in choosing an insole for your plantar fasciitis you may not have otherwise known about.

A Good Fit Is So Important

The fit inside the shoe or sneaker is just as important as the insole itself. Some insoles may need to be trimmed down to fit more precisely inside the shoe or sneaker. There should be instructions within the packaging if your insoles can be trimmed for a better fit. Also consider what type of shoes or sneakers you wear the most. Some insoles for plantar fasciitis are geared towards placement inside athletic shoes, for example, tennis shoes. While other insoles are ideal for other types of shoes, even high heels and sandals (There are also sandals designed for plantar fasciitis).

Make sure the ones you select are completely comfortable inside all the shoes you wear. You may need a different type of insole depending upon the shoes you’ll be wearing. If you cannot find the precise size, choose an insole that can be trimmed down and go for the larger size. If the insole is too small, there won’t be much you can do about the fit, since you can’t make them bigger or longer.

Proper Cleaning and Care

To be sure your insoles for plantar fasciitis last as long as possible, it is important to care for them as directed by the manufacturer. Keep them clean by following instructions. Some are machine washable while others must be kept fresh with soap and water by hand. You can potentially ruin the structure of the insole if you improperly wash it. Along with cleaning, caring for your insoles is also important. Each style of insole is unique, so read the labeling as far as care is concerned. You may be advised to take the insoles out of your shoes while not in use, for example. And it’s probably not advisable to share them with others for sanitary reasons as well as form, since some styles shape to contour the individual’s foot.

Choose your shoes wiseley

Plantar fasciitis is painful, but you do not have to suffer long-term. By finding the best insole for plantar fasciitis that works for your needs, you can relieve your pain and suffering and get back to the things you love doing. Along with selecting the insoles that are the most effective for you, also consider the types of shoes and sneakers you wear.

A well-made and well-designed shoe or sneaker will also help with alleviating the pressure, strain, and pain from plantar fasciitis. Read more about that in our guide: best shoes for plantar fasciitis. Along with it, use your insoles as another layer of comfort, support, and protection. Some styles require that you remove the insole that is already inside your shoe or sneaker, so be sure to do this or else your shoe or sneaker will become too snug. A too-tight fit can cause other issues, so make sure your shoe or sneaker is still roomy and flexible even once the insole has been placed inside.

Conclusion

These eight best insoles for plantar fasciitis are all highly-recommended and have relieved pain in those who have used them for their plantar fasciitis as well as other foot-related conditions. There are many sorts of insoles available today to choose from, so consider all your options before buying your insoles.

Hopefully you can use this summarized information as an educational launching pad to zero in on a pair of insoles for plantar fasciitis that you are pleased with. Depending on the severity of your plantar fasciitis, shape of your foot, other conditions you may be dealing with, and budget, there is surely an insole out there for you. Before long, the pain and agony that you’ve been dealing with from your plantar fasciitis will be gone. A reliable and recommended insole for plantar fasciitis can be a game changer. Slip one inside your shoe or sneaker and finally feel comfort instead of cramping. Pain can be a thing of the past.

Melissa Kay

Melissa A. Kay is a New York based freelance writer, content strategist, and editor. A longtime fitness enthusiast, much of her writing is health- and exercise-focused, nutrition-centric, and geared towards well-being.

Almost there! Please complete this form and click the button below to gain instant access.

Get a FREE 5-Part Guide that will show you how to cure your plantar fasciitis from home.