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Whether you were born with flat feet or developed fallen arches later in life, finding the right support can be a challenge. Even if your flat feet don't cause pain, it’s still a good idea to address them with gait correction which can prevent pain and injury down the line. The best insoles for flat feet offer a solution for all your feet woes, helping to evenly distribute pressure so you’re less prone to aches and pains.
Insoles can provide extra cushioning, arch support, and gait correction for flat feet. And unlike the other common alternative—using specialty running shoes for flat feet—insoles are usually quite affordable. You can start with just one pair and use them with multiple pairs of shoes before committing to a more expensive solution.
However, choosing the right pair of insoles is no easy task. That's why we put together this list of the best removable insoles for flat feet. We've researched and sorted them according to specialty so you can easily select the pair that best fits your feet.
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Best Insoles for Flat Feet
- Best Overall: Superfeet Adapt Run
- Best Insoles with Arch Support: Dr. Scholl's Extra Support Insoles
- Best Insoles for Running: Superfeet Trailblazer Comfort
- Best Insoles for Standing All Day: Dr. Scholl's Work Massaging Gel
- Best Budget Insoles: Superfeet Flex
- Best Insoles for Plantar Fasciitis: Dr. Scholl's Plantar Fasciitis Pain Relief Orthotics
- Best Insoles for Correcting Overpronation: Superfeet Carbon
- Best Insoles for Walking: Dr. Scholl's FITNESS WALKING Insoles
What to Look for When Shopping for Insoles for Flat Feet
Gait correction
When you have flat feet, one of the main goals of insoles is to correct your gait. The arches of your feet play a key role in maintaining your foot, ankle, and leg health. They give your gait a little bounce and momentum as you walk. But folks with flat feet often suffer from ankle or leg pain and soreness as a result.
Also common is overpronation, which is when your ankles unnaturally swing inward as you walk. This too can cause pain or injury to your feet and ankles. If you're looking for a pair of insoles for your flat feet, you’ll generally want something with support in the arch as well as cushioning to make walking more comfortable. The amount of arch support you need will depend on how flat your feet are and whether you have pain when you walk. If you're unsure of exactly how much support or gait correction you need, visit a podiatrist or a specialty running store. They’re equipped with cameras and sensors that are designed to evaluate your gait and help you find the best pair of shoes or insoles.
Cushioning
Cushioning isn't strictly necessary for those with flat feet, but most insoles do include some amount of cushion, so it's worth thinking about what your preferences are. Higher amounts of cushioning can be helpful for those who suffer from plantar fasciitis and other foot pain conditions. Too much cushion can be detrimental if you suffer from balance problems or severe gait issues, as feeling closer to the ground generally provides a sense of physical stability as you walk.
The type of cushioning may also vary by insole. Most insoles are made of either gel or foam, which each come with their own are advantages and disadvantages to each. It may take some trial and error to find the pair that works best with your personal preferences.
Purpose
Is your main goal to correct overpronation, or are you more concerned with reducing pain symptoms? Do you plan to wear them to work or while you train to run a marathon? Your best pair of insoles will depend on what exactly you are looking to get out of them.
Quality
As a general rule, insoles are significantly cheaper than running shoes designed for flat feet, and they also allow you to switch them between multiple pairs of shoes. But just like running shoes, insoles do have a lifespan, so it's always good to make sure you’re investing in a high-quality pair. Gel insoles may last longer than foam insoles, but it depends on the pair and the brand that makes them.
Best Overall Insoles for Flat Feet - Superfeet Adapt Run
SPECS
- Intended purpose: Provide extra cushioning for added comfort
- Material: Foam
- Cushion: Light
- Size:Women's 4-14; men's 5.5-13
- Arch: Low/medium support
- Color: Black, red, and orange
- Key features: Adaptive comfort technology; slim profile
Our best overall removable insoles for flat feet are the Adapt Run insoles from Superfeet. We like how the Adapt Run insoles are durable, supportive, and extremely comfortable. They are the proverbial "just right" insole. They offer an ideal blend of arch support and soft cushioning. Designed to improve the endurance of your feet on long walks and runs, these insoles are also made to relieve pain, allowing them to work for a variety of purposes and activities.
However, if your main concern is overpronation or want reinforced support, you may want to check out one of our other pairs specifically designed for that. We also note that these are foam, so they may not be as durable as a gel pair. But for a versatile, supportive pair of insoles that can work in all types of shoes, these come highly recommended.
PROS
- Lightweight
- Durable
- Suitable for forefoot strikers
- Ideal for flat feet
- Comfortable for running
CONS
- Minimal cushioning
- Foam is less durable than gel
BUY: Superfeet Adapt Run Insoles
Best Insoles with Arch Support - Dr. Scholl's Extra Support Insoles
SPECS
- Intended purpose: Arch support
- Material: Gel
- Cushion: Moderate; midsole support
- Size:Men's 8-14; can trim to adjust size
- Arch: Moderate to high support
- Color: Blue and orange
- Key features: U-shaped midsole for extra support
If your primary requirement for insoles is arch support, we recommend the Dr. Scholl's Extra Support Insoles. These insoles are made with taller and heavier folks in mind, and are able to provide the support needed to reduce pain and discomfort while standing all day or walking. Though not ideal for running, the Extra Support Insoles are great for anyone who is on their feet for long periods each day. They provide tons of firm arch support, and their gel material absorbs some of the impact from your stride—especially helpful if you walk or stand on very firm materials like concrete or asphalt. These come in one size so you’ll need to trim them to the exact length and shape of your shoe.
Keep in mind that the gel base of these insoles are pretty firm. Depending on your needs, this could be a good or a bad thing. If your feet are sensitive (from injury or a condition like plantar fasciitis), or if you prefer a lower or more moderate amount of arch support, you may want to check out some of our other recommendations. Also for anyone with smaller feet, trimming them to size may leave the (rather firm and supportive) arch in an uncomfortable spot. But for those looking for high, firm arch support and gel shock absorption, we think the Dr. Scholl's Extra Support Insoles are a great selection.
PROS
- Great for taller and/or heavier folks
- Excellent arch support
- Midsole support and shock absorption
- Firm cushioning
- Affordable
- May reduce back or hip pain
CONS
- May be too firm for some
- Not ideal for forefoot strikers
- Trimming may cause fit issues
BUY: Dr. Scholl’s Extra Support Insoles
Best Insoles for Running - Superfeet Trailblazer Comfort
SPECS
- Intended purpose: Stabilize and support
- Material: Carbon fiber and foam
- Cushion: Low
- Size:Women's 4.5-14; men's 5.5-13; trimmable
- Arch: Moderate to high support
- Color: Green
- Key features: Thin yet supportive for stability in unpredictable terrain
Running, especially distance running, can be difficult if you have flat feet. As we’ve discussed, having fallen or undefined arches can cause pain and injury if left unaddressed. But specialty running shoes, like the supportive styles we recommend for flat feet, can come with a higher price tag. Our solution? Keep the running shoes you already have and support your arches with these Superfeet Trailblazer Comfort insoles. These high-tech insoles are made with carbon fiber, which provides fantastic bounce and helps you maintain momentum from each stride. Thin enough to work well if you prefer minimalist or zero-drop shoes, they still provide the high arch support you’re looking for. We also love the thin profile of these insoles because it allows you to experience the extra support without losing your stability and sense of connection with the earth as you run.
Since these insoles are on the thinner side, they would probably work best for runners with a midsole or forefoot strike. Folks who want plenty of soft cushioning may want to look for a thicker, more cushioned pair.
PROS
- Comfortable
- Carbon fiber adds springiness
- Gentle, high support
- Thin enough to work with zero-drop or minimalist shoes
- Heel cup works seamlessly with hiking boots
CONS
- Some may prefer more robust cushioning
- Higher price point
BUY: Superfeet Trailblazer Comfort
Best Insoles for Standing All Day - Dr. Scholl’s Work Massaging Gel
SPECS
- Intended purpose: Relieve pain and fatigue from standing
- Material: Gel
- Cushion: Moderate to high
- Size: Women's 6-11; men's 8-14
- Arch: Moderate
- Color: Blue and black
- Key features: Firm arch support; shock absorbing cushion to reduce fatigue
Standing all day can cause intense fatigue and pain, especially if you have flat feet. And oftentimes the soreness isn’t limited to our feet: Standing for long periods can contribute to back pain, poor posture, and a general feeling of malaise. But a supportive pair of insoles can make all the difference. For those who stand or walk all day for work, we recommend the Dr. Scholl's Work Massaging Gel insoles. These insoles are made specifically for folks who are on their feet for hours at a time. Their gel construction reduces some of the impact to your joints by absorbing shock from hard surfaces like concrete and asphalt. They provide a moderate amount of firm arch support, which works to correct your gait and posture, improving pain and soreness in the long run. They also have firm gel cushioning to support the rest of your foot. And they're one of the most affordable pairs of insoles we've found, at just about $11 per pair.
Like all of Dr. Scholl's trimmable insoles, some users find that this style of insole doesn't work for them. If your feet are on the smaller side, you may want to opt for a sized insole (like those sold by Superfeet) rather than an adjustable one. Similarly, folks with wide or narrow feet may need to find a more specialized pair of insoles.
PROS
- Absorb impact from firm surfaces like concrete
- Decrease pain and fatigue
- Great for anyone who stands or walks for long periods
- Affordable
- Trimmable
CONS
- May be too firm for some
- Doesn’t work well for running or exercise
- Break-in period
BUY: Dr. Scholl’s Work Massaging Gel
Best Budget Insoles - Superfeet Flex
SPECS
- Intended purpose: Basic support and comfort
- Material: Foam
- Cushion: Moderate
- Size: Women's 4.5-14; men's 5.5-13
- Arch: Low to Moderate
- Color: Black, orange, and blue
- Key features: Springy, comfortable foam
Finding a reliable pair of insoles on a budget can be tough. If possible, you want to avoid simply choosing the cheapest option and instead find the right balance between affordability and durability. After all, a cheap pair of shoes or insoles that need to be replaced after a month of use aren't so affordable since you'll just have to repeat the purchase. At about $26 per pair, the SuperFeet Flex insoles are within reach for most people, and you don't have to compromise on quality. These soft and comfortable insoles are made with springy, reactive foam that provides a moderate amount of cushioning while still feeling slim within the shoe. They have a low to moderate amount of arch support, which is a good fit for anyone who wants some support for their flat feet, but isn’t too worried about gait correction. Available in a wide variety of sizes, these insoles are also trimmable. We love how they combine the flexibility of an active insole with the stability of a firmer gel insole.
However, because this insole is on the thin side, some may find the cushioning lacking. If you’re dealing with a lot of pain in the soles of your feet, you may want to check out a more cushioned alternative. Because they’re made of foam, they also don’t provide the shock absorption of a gel insole.
PROS
- Ventilated to prevent moisture
- Affordability & durability
- Comfortable
- Flexible sole works for any activity level
- Stable in shoe
CONS
- Too thin for some
- Minimal shock absorption
Best Insoles for Plantar Fasciitis - Dr. Scholl’s Plantar Fasciitis Pain Relief Orthotics
SPECS
- Intended purpose: Pain relief for plantar fasciitis
- Material: Gel
- Cushion: High
- Size: Women's 6-10; Men's 8-13; trimmable
- Arch: Moderate
- Color: Blue
- Key features: Heel and arch support for plantar fascia
Plantar fasciitis is a painful condition in which the plantar fascia, which supports healthy foot movement and natural gait, becomes inflamed. The plantar fascia runs along the bottom of the foot, and people with this condition commonly have pain in their heel that makes it particularly difficult to walk, exercise, and stand on firm surfaces. It’s common for people with flat feet to develop plantar fasciitis due to their unnatural gait pattern, which is all the more reason to invest in the proper shoes, insoles, and other gear to keep your feet healthy. But for those already dealing with plantar fasciitis, we recommend Dr. Scholl's Plantar Fasciitis Pain Relief Orthotics.
These insoles are made specifically for those with plantar fasciitis. They have generous cushioning in the heel and midsole, which relieves pain. They also include a moderate amount of corrective arch support. This helps to correct your gait and to reduce plantar fasciitis symptoms over time. The design of these insoles also help reduce strain on leg and hip joints by preventing fatigue and poor posture.
That being said, plantar fasciitis doesn’t have a perfect solution that works for every person. Many people prefer to invest in the more costly custom orthotics or high-quality shoes. And as we’ve mentioned before, Dr. Scholl's trimmable insoles don’t work for everyone, either.
PROS
- Helps with plantar fasciitis pain
- Comfortable cushioning
- Corrective arch support
- Reduces fatigue and joint pain
CONS
- May wear out quickly for those on their feet for long periods
- Trimmable one-size-fits-all construction not ideal for sensitive feet
- Some may prefer more arch support
BUY: Dr. Scholl’s Plantar Fasciitis Pain Relief Orthotics
Best Insoles for Correcting Overpronation - Superfeet Carbon
SPECS
- Intended purpose: Light support for athletic use
- Material: Foam
- Cushion: Moderate
- Size: Women's 4.5-14; men's 5.5-15
- Arch: Low
- Color: Black and green
- Key features: Carbon fiber and performance foam
Overpronation, the term for when your ankles and feet tilt too far inwards when you walk, is a common issue among folks with flat feet. This is because a strong and defined arch is one of the anatomical features that keeps your foot stable. Without correction, overpronation may worsen over time and contribute to plantar fasciitis and other foot pain conditions. Insoles can help correct overpronation and support your fallen arches. If you're concerned about overpronation, we recommend the Superfeet Carbon insoles. These insoles are made with a stable, supportive heel cup and arch support to help gently correct your overpronation. They're light and thin, making them easy to use for running, dance, or other highly mobile exercise. And despite the thin cushion, they still provide a nice amount of cushioning. The carbon fiber woven into the heel and sole provides spring and bounce as you move.
One drawback to these insoles is the lower level of arch support. Not everyone with flat feet needs a high level of arch support. These may be a good option for someone with sensitive feet who can't handle firm or high arch support yet. The correction these offer is also more gentle and gradual than that of custom orthotics or highly supportive insoles. Anyone looking for a high amount of arch support should consider a different option on our list.
- Heel cup shock absorption
- Carbon fiber
- Wide toe box to encourage a more natural gait
- Thin, light foam
CONS
- Some may prefer more cushioning
- Higher price point
- Low arch support not suitable for all folks with flat feet
Best Insoles for Walking - Dr. Scholl’s FITNESS WALKING Insoles
SPECS
- Intended purpose: Walking and preventing fatigue
- Material:Gel
- Cushion: Moderate
- Size: Men's 8-14; Women's 6-10; trimmable
- Arch: Moderate
- Color: Green
- Key features: Pressure-dispersing nodes and shock absorption
Our top pick for folks who walk for long distances is Dr. Scholl's FITNESS WALKING insoles. Though not made specifically for people with flat feet, these insoles have enough arch support to benefit you and gently correct your gait. Unlike some insoles with higher arch support, the arch on these insoles is comfortable and cushioned, so you won't find the arch unnatural in its correction. The Fitness Walking insoles are made with gel and contain pressure-dispersing nodes to absorb shock from concrete and asphalt. Like Dr. Scholl's other insoles, these are trimmable so you can adjust them to fit your foot and shoe sizes. They are affordable, durable, and their moderate cushion and arch support makes them a good option for many different people.
We do want to note that if you're looking for a pair that you can wear for walking and other activities like running, hiking, or dance, these probably aren't the way to go. The gel makes them a little too rigid to work well for other activities. Check out the Superfeet Carbon insoles as an alternative. There's also the matter of the pressure-dispersing nodes in the base of these insoles. These are meant to absorb some of the shock of walking on firm surfaces, but some may find them very noticeable and uncomfortable while walking. If your feet are sensitive, you may want to opt for a foam insole instead, like one of the Superfeet insoles we’ve featured.
- Soft, moderate arch support
- Affordable
- Great for walking
CONS
- Not the best for running
- Bumpy texture isn’t for everyone
BUY: Dr. Scholl's FITNESS WALKING Insoles
FAQs About Insoles for Flat Feet
Do insoles work for flat feet?
Yes, insoles can help correct gait and reduce pain for people with flat feet. If you can’t seem to find a pair of insoles that work for you, consider looking for a pair of high-quality running shoes instead.
What insoles should I use for my flat feet?
You should use whichever insoles feel most comfortable and are most effective at addressing your primary concerns. If you're worried about overpronation, for example, we recommend the Superfeet Carbon insoles.
For help picking out the best insoles, refer to our section on factors to consider when choosing the best insoles for flat feet, or try visiting a podiatrist or specialty running store. Some people experience no pain, injury, or gait problems as a result of their flat feet. For them, no action is necessary.
Can insoles correct flat feet?
Sadly, no. Insoles don’t correct flat feet, they simply address symptoms like pain, fatigue, and plantar fasciitis. There aren’t many options for "fixing" flat feet but you can look for complementary activities like stretching, as well as comfortable shoes or insoles, which can both improve the health of your feet.
Final Thoughts
We hope you enjoyed our list of the best insoles for flat feet. Insoles are just one ingredient to healthy feet and comfortable movement. Finding the right shoes or other gear is also important, as is stretching and, in some cases, medical intervention. Keep exploring to find the combination of therapies that works best for you.
About the Author
Olivia is a writer, swimmer, and travel enthusiast. She writes about swimming, outdoor fitness, nutrition education, and accessible exercise. She’s particularly interested in how exercise and diet can help us cope with, treat, and even prevent chronic disease.
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