The 8 Best Insoles for Flat Feet, According to Podiatrists

Wondering what the golden rules are for finding great insoles for flat feet? We’ve narrowed it down to the top four things you need to check before purchasing anything:

Arch Support

Traditionally, having flat feet means your arches, well, hurt sometimes. Since folks with flat feet don’t have much support through the arch naturally, a pair of insoles specially designed for your foot shape can offer the support you need. Additionally, flat arches mean the pressure in your foot isn’t distributed properly, which can cause stress in certain areas. Luckily, insoles for flat feet can help alleviate that stress–if you know what to look for.

“The insole should offer good arch support to help distribute pressure evenly across the foot,” Dr. Fuchs says.

But, Dr. Fuchs isn’t the only one advocating for insoles with arch support. According to a study done by Plos One using these inserts helps absorb shock when you're walking.

Deep Heel Cup

Many people with flat feet struggle with overpronation, which means your feet tend to be unstable and rotate outwards. To fix this, choose insoles featuring deep heel cups, which “provide stability and reduce stress on the feet,” Dr. Fuchs says.

Heel pain can also be a concern for those who suffer from flat feet (or even plantar fasciitis), which is why a well-cushioned and deep heel cup can make all the difference. In fact, studies (like the one done with the Clinical Intervention of Aging even “suggests a heel cup with arch support insoles is effective in enhancing standing balance.” Who knew!

Durable Materials

Just like a pair of sneakers, insoles endure a decent amount of abuse every time you wear them. Therefore, Dr. Fuchs recommends you choose a pair of insoles “made of durable materials to ensure they can withstand daily wear and tear.”

So what are considered durable materials? For insoles, look for pairs made of EVA, polyurethane, cork, rubber, foam, and/or gel. Because who wants to be replacing their insoles 24/7? Not I, said the fly.

Comfort

Not shockingly, you should find insoles that are “comfortable to wear for extended periods of time,” Dr. Fuchs says. After all, no one wants to willingly wear a pair of insoles that cause them more pain than they’re already enduring.

Comfort can also look like reduced pain, which can be a big selling point for insoles. Plus, when you wear corrective devices like insoles, you may notice less friction and pressure areas on your feet.