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We Found the 15 Best Orthotics for Optimal Comfort and Support

From top-selling brands like Dr Scholls, Superfeet, and more.

Redi thotics flex orthotics insoles next to sneakers, a yoga mat and yoga block, on a wooden floor

Verywell Fit / Conor Ralph

If you need support that goes beyond that of over-the-counter insoles, try a pair of custom orthotics. Similar to over-the-counter insoles, orthotics sit inside your shoes—offering padding, support, and more. But the difference is that they're customizable and sometimes prescribed by a doctor.

Over-the-counter insoles can be very affordable and are best for people with mild pain, average arches, or anyone who just would like to add some cushion and support, says Jackie Sutera, DPM, a podiatrist at City Podiatry in New York City. Since orthotics are customized based on your foot length, arch height, and pain points, Brad Schaeffer, DPM, a podiatrist at SOLE Podiatry NYC in New York recommends consulting with a podiatrist.

With so many options on the market, it can be difficult to find the right pair of orthotics to meet your needs. To help, we first spoke with the experts, including Dr. Schaeffer and Dr. Sutera, to learn more about orthotics and what makes a pair worth your money. Then, we spent hours researching dozens of best-selling products from popular brands. We also tested five products on this list by wearing them in our regular daily routines, for hours at a time. We evaluated each of these five pairs for support, comfort, pain relief, breathability, and overall value—paying special attention to how well each orthotic address specific concerns, such a plantar fasciitis .

In addition, we had an RRCA- and USATF-certified running coach from our Review Board review this article for accuracy surrounding what to look for in orthotics and who should use them.

Best Overall

Dr. Scholl's Custom Fit Orthotic Inserts

Dr. Scholl's Custom Fit Orthotic Inserts

Amazon

Pros
  • Online fit quiz

  • Good for multiple arch types

  • 90-day refund policy

Cons
  • Time-consuming selection process

We chose Dr. Scholl's Custom Fit Orthotic Inserts as our top pick because they're supportive and customizable based on your arch type. They're available in 43 variations including 29 full-length and 14 three-quarters-length options—making finding the perfect set simple. To find your ideal pair of Custom Fit Orthotics, you can talk to an expert or visit a Dr. Scholl’s kiosk to get a personalized recommendation. You can also complete an online quiz if you'd like to find your fit from home.

These orthotics come recommended by one of our experts. “Ones I typically recommend are Dr. Scholl’s Custom Fit Orthotic Inserts, which are matched for your unique foot geometry,” Dr. Schaeffer says. He notes that each insert is made up of three layers—a shock-absorbing cushioned layer, an arch support layer, and a soft cloth top layer. “Each is designed to reduce your overall foot pressure, and as a result, give you the energy to take even more steps every day,” he says.

Key Specs:
Size Options:
Custom Dr. Scholl's sizing | Length Options: Full-length and 3/4 length | Arch Height Options: Multiple

Best Overall Runner-Up

Redi-Thotics Flex Orthotic Insoles

Redi-Thotics Flex Orthotic Insoles

Amazon

Our Ratings
  • Support
    5/5
  • Comfort
    5/5
  • Pain Relief
    5/5
  • Breathability
    5/5
  • Value
    5/5
  • Super responsive and bouncy

  • Good for multiple arch types

  • Anti-microbial and anti-bacterial

  • Require some break-in period

Coming in close second, Redi-Thotics Flex Orthotic Insoles offer similar comfort and support to our best overall pick, Dr. Scholl's Custom Fit Orthotic Inserts. They're designed with tired and sore arches and feet in mind, featuring a breathable, anti-bacterial top cover that prevents feet from overheating and a flexible, supportive foam layer that provides great arch support. But unlike our top pick, these don't come in custom sizing—earning them our runner-up spot.

During testing we initially found this pair to be somewhat uncomfortable, especially for one tester who has flat, low arches. But after a few wear-tests, they quickly became incredibly comfortable, offering a lightweight, bouncy, barely-there feel. While the arch is prominent, we did find them to be a really great option for all arch heights. We also found that they helped us maintain better posture when walking and working out—a huge plus for any user!

Key Specs:
Size Options:
Seven (men’s 5-15, women’s 6-12) | Length Options: full length | Arch Height Options: One (low and medium)

Best Budget

NAZAROO Arch Support Orthotic Plantar Fasciitis

NAZAROO Shoe Insoles

Amazon

Pros
  • Suitable for men and women

  • Available in various colors

  • Arch support may help various conditions

Cons
  • Not designed for specific arch heights

  • Not customizable

If you’re looking for a set of budget-friendly insoles that’ll make your shoes a little more comfortable, Nazaroo’s Shoe Insoles might be just what you need. Crafted from EVA foam, they're designed to cushion your feet every time you take a step. The deep cups lining the back of each insole also hug your heels for a supportive feel when you move.

While they don't offer much in the way of customization, they're available in a wide variety of sizes (suiting men’s 4-6.5 and women’s 6-14.5). They aren't designed to suit different arch types, but they come with some generically sculpted arch support, which is good for those with low and high arches alike. The budget-friendly price is a characteristic that will make your shoes feel more supportive, shock-absorbing, and comfortable, however, they won't be customized like typical orthotics.

Key Specs:
Size Options:
13 (men’s 4-16.5, women’s 6-14.5+) | Length Options: Full-length | Arch Height Options: One (one-size-fits-all)

Best for Low Arches

Superfeet Run Support Shoe Inserts

Superfeet Run Support Low Arch Shoe Inserts

Amazon

Our Ratings
  • Support
    4.7/5
  • Comfort
    5/5
  • Pain Relief
    4.3/5
  • Breathability
    5/5
  • Value
    4.8/5
Pros
  • Available in various sizes

  • Low-profile

Cons
  • Not as plush as other insoles

If you have low arches, it's important to look for a pair of orthotics that is specifically designed for your foot shape to avoid foot aches, fatigue, and discomfort. We love Superfeet's Carbon Insoles, which feature low arch orthotic support that helps to stabilize the foot when running and walking. The thin foam insole and firm yet bouncy underfoot also help with overall comfort and stability. But if you prefer more plush cushioning, check out Powerstep's Pinnacle Insoles.

When we tested this pair, we appreciated the deep, rounded heel cup that cradles and supports the heel and upper ankle. One tester, who typically feels irritation on the outside of the heel and the top of the toes, found that these insoles helped to alleviate those pressure points and stand comfortably for longer durations. We also love the low-profile insole's lightweight and breathable design that helped to prevent our feet from overheating.

These are not the most plush, supportive orthotics on our list, but if you have low arches, they're a great option.

Key Specs:
Size Options:
Six (men’s 5.5-15, women’s 4.5-14) | Length Options: Full length | Arch Height Options: One (designed for low arches)

Best for High Arches

Superfeet All-Purpose Green Insoles

Superfeet All-Purpose Support High Arch Green Insoles

Amazon

Our Ratings
  • Support
    4.7/5
  • Comfort
    5/5
  • Pain Relief
    4.3/5
  • Breathability
    5/5
  • Value
    4/5
Pros
  • Plush cushioning

  • Available in various sizes

  • Evenly distributes weight

Cons
  • Take up more room in shoes

Unlike the the brand's Carbon insoles, Superfeet's Green Insoles are designed for high arches, with maximum thickness and underfoot cushioning. A deeper heel cup accentuates the higher arch shape and provide even more support and stability for wearers with high arches. Plus, the high density foam cushioning delivers a firm foundation for all-day comfort.

During testing, we found that these insoles helped our posture, made it more comfortable to stand for longer, and reduced foot fatigue. One tester, who deals with achy knees, hips, and a lower back, felt that the insoles even helped to alleviated pain. They really mold to the shape of your foot, delivering a cradled, locked-in feel that adds overall comfort and support.

You should know that because they're on the thicker side, these insoles to take up more room in your shoes. We noticed that our feet felt a bit warmer and more sweaty than normal when wearing them. But that didn't take away from Superfeet's Green Insoles exceptional comfort, support, and overall value.

Key Specs:
Size Options:
Four (men's 3.5-15, women’s 4.5-12) | Length Options: full length | Arch Height Options: One (low, medium, high)

Superfeet Green Insoles displayed on wooden floor next to shoes

Verywell Fit / Conor Ralph

Best for Running

Currex RunPro Running Insoles

Currex RunPro Running Insoles

Amazon

Our Ratings
  • Support
    3/5
  • Comfort
    4.5/5
  • Pain Relief
    3/5
  • Breathability
    5/5
  • Value
    4/5
Pros
  • Features three support zones

  • Available in various sizes

  • Good for multiple arch types

Cons
  • Not as plush as other insoles

  • Not trimmable

Sleek, padded, and low-profile, Currex’s RunPro Insoles are one of our favorite insoles for running because they slide inside most running shoes for a comfortable fit as you exercise, whether you're jogging outdoors or working out on a reliable elliptical indoors. They're crafted to support the front, middle, and back of your feet, and the padding is designed to cushion and elevate your arches. Naturally, some people need more arch support than others, so the insoles are available in low, medium, or high arch support.

When we tested this pair, we found that they're on the thinner side, and not as plush as other options, but this makes them super lightweight, breathable, and moisture-wicking—ideal for running short and fast or long and slow runs. We also noticed that they offer extra support at the ball and heel of the foot, which helped to keep us comfortable and prevent foot fatigue on distance runs. You should know, that these thinner insoles are not the best option if you suffer from foot pain. Instead, we like Dr. Scholl's Custom Fit Orthotic Inserts.

Available in six different sizes, Currex's insoles are designed to fit men’s sizes 3-14.5 and women’s sizes 6-16. Currex recommends removing the existing liners from your shoes and replacing them with these insoles. And if you’re unable to do so, the brand recommends sizing up by a half-size.

Key Specs:
Size Options:
Six (men’s 3-14.5, women’s 6-16) | Length Options: Full-length | Arch Height Options: Three (low, medium, high)

Best for Wide Feet

Powerstep Pinnacle Wide Fit Insoles

Powerstep Pinnacle Wide Fit Insoles

Amazon

Pros
  • Good for wide-width shoes

  • Available in various sizes

  • Covered in antimicrobial fabric

Cons
  • Only designed for one arch height

  • May be too thick for some

Some insoles are designed to be trimmed shorter or narrower, but if you need them to be wider, you're better off buying a new set. Powerstep's Pinnacle Wide Fit Insoles ar extra-wide and designed to fill the full length of your shoes. Made with four layers, the insoles cushion with each step. At the base, you'll find a foam layer topped with a supportive heel cup lining the back of the insole. Another foam layer and soft fabric top the insoles—combining to create a balance of comfort and support.

Powerstep's insoles are available in 11 different sizes, suiting men’s sizes 3-16 and women’s sizes 5-12+. But it's important to note that they're specifically designed to suit wide-width shoes (ideally, those between 3E to 6E). One downside for some is that the insoles are designed with firm arch support, so you won’t have the option to adjust the arch support based on your preferences.

Key Specs:
Size Options:
11 (men’s 3-16, women’s 5-12+) | Length Options: Full-length | Arch Height Options: One (recommended for flat feet)

Best for Narrow Feet

Vionic Slimfit Orthotic Insoles

Vionic Slimfit Orthotic Insoles

Amazon

Our Ratings
  • Support
    5/5
  • Comfort
    5/5
  • Pain Relief
    5/5
  • Breathability
    5/5
  • Value
    4/5
  • Lightweight and breathable

  • Shorter length for less bulk

  • Provides all-day comfort

  • Not for high arches

If you have thin or narrow feet, you'll love Vionic's Slimfit Orthotic Insoles. They're designed to fit perfectly in casual or dressy shoes (yes, even high heels), without overcrowding your toes. But they also work great in sneakers, sandals, and more—for narrow feet only.

During testing, these orthotics made our old, worn-out sneakers feet brand new—providing eight hours of straight comfort while walking, standing, and running around. Lightweight and flexible, we found that this pair provides moderate arch support that works best for wearers with low or medium arches. And we loved the shorter length, that ends right before the toes, which made the orthotics feel way less bulky in all types of shoes.

Key Specs:
Size Options:
Four (men's 3.5-15, women’s 4.5-12) | Length Options: Full length | Arch Height Options: One (low, medium, high)

Best Women's

Superfeet Women’s Berry Insoles

Superfeet Women’s Berry Insoles

Amazon

Pros
  • Available in various sizes

  • Narrower design

  • Finished with an anti-odor coating

Cons
  • Designed for one arch height

Many orthotic insoles are one-size-fits-all. But unlike their unisex counterparts, Superfeet’s Berry Women’s Orthotic Insert is designed specifically for women’s feet. The insoles have a narrower heel because women’s heels tend to be narrower than men’s heels. The arches are also crafted with this difference in mind to offer users a set of orthotics that fits more naturally inside women’s shoes.

Beyond these characteristics, the insoles feature a classic fit with a bouncy foam forefoot, a stabilizing heel cup, and an anti-odor top coating to keep your feet feeling fresh. The trimmable style is available in four different sizes, so you can customize the insoles to suit the size of your shoes. One thing to note is that these insoles aren't made for people with low arches or flat feet.

Key Specs:
Size Options:
Four (women’s 4.5-12) | Length Options: Multiple (trimmable) | Arch Height Options: One (high arches)

Best Men's

Superfeet Orange Premium Insoles

Superfeet Orange Premium Insoles

Amazon

Pros
  • Available in various sizes

  • Trimmable for custom fit

  • Finished with an anti-odor top coating

Cons
  • Designed for one arch height

The Superfeet Orange Premium insoles are ideal for men's feet. They boast a wide toe box, a wide heel, and a long arch length that can also be found in most unisex styles. Designed to fill the full length of your shoes, the insoles should cover the entire bottom of the foot. But since they're trimmable, you can customize them to fit the exact shape and length of your shoes.

The front of each insole is padded with foam and designed to cushion the ball of your foot every time you take a step. The back comes equipped with a deep heel cup, which is designed to stabilize your foot and to keep your insoles in place as you walk. Since the insoles come in a wide size range, it shouldn't be too complicated to find one that suits your foot. But it's worth noting that they're only for people with high arches.

Key Specs:
Size Options:
Four (men’s 5.5-17, women’s 6.5 -14+) | Length Options: Multiple (trimmable) | Arch Height Options: One (high arches)

Best for Dress Shoes

FootChair Slim Dress Shoe Orthotics

FootChair Slim Dress Shoe Orthotics

Amazon

Pros
  • Narrow design

  • Evenly distributes weight

  • Adjustable arch support

Cons
  • Not trimmable

  • May feel stiff or hard to some

If you wear dress shoes daily, FootChair's Slim Dress Shoe Orthotics should be beneficial thanks to their slim-fitting silhouette. They are also ideal for narrower athletic shoes like cycling shoes and cleats. The full-length design offers shock-absorbing comfort from toe-to-heel. And since their footbeds are crafted from neoprene, the insoles promise long-lasting support that won’t fade after you spend a few days on your feet.

Whereas other insoles are designed to suit different arch types, FootChair’s Slim Dress Shoe Orthotics only come in one style. But since that single style is customizable, you can adjust your arch height to perfectly suit your feet (each insole comes equipped with a built-in pocket, which you can fill with an EVA foam pad to add arch support).

Key Specs:
Size Options:
Five (men’s 3-12.5, women’s 5-14.5) | Length Options: Full-length | Arch Height Options: Two (removable arch height pads)

Best for Plantar Fasciitis

Powerstep Pinnacle Insole

Powerstep Pinnacle Insole

Amazon

Pros
  • Available in various sizes

  • Good for multiple arch types

Cons
  • Not trimmable

  • Minimal shock absorption

When buying orthotic insoles for plantar fasciitis (or any other condition), Dr. Schaeffer has one bit of advice. “I recommend looking for a product that indicates that its orthotics are clinically proven for the benefits they claim.” And since Powerstep’s Pinnacle Arch Support Insoles are clinically effective at providing plantar fasciitis relief, they’re a pretty great place to start your shopping process.

The insoles are made up of four layers starting at the bottom with a layer of plush EVA foam. On top of that, you’ll find a supportive heel cup designed to cradle and stabilize your foot as you walk, followed by another layer of EVA foam. To top things off, a soft layer of antimicrobial fabric keeps the insoles breathable and comfortable. Powerstep’s Pinnacle Arch Support Insoles are designed to suit those with medium arches. But they’re also available in low arch and high arch variations.

Key Specs:
Size Options:
12 (men’s 3-16, women’s 5-12+) | Length Options: Full-length | Arch Height Options: Three (low, medium, high)

Most Versatile

FootChair Orthotics

FootChair Adjustable Orthotics

Amazon

Pros
  • Removable pads included

  • Trimmable for custom fit

  • 30-day money-back guarantee

Cons
  • May feel thick or bulky to some

  • May feel stiff or hard to some

FootChair’s Orthotics take high arch support to the next level thanks to built-in pockets. The pockets can be filled with removable arch support pads, and the pads are included with the set. You should start by inserting the orthotics into your shoes without any additional padding. But if you're seeking more arch support, you can add the pads as needed.

Because arch support isn’t the only thing that matters, the insoles are crafted from shock-absorbing neoprene. The insoles are also available in six different sizes, and since they’re trimmable, you can customize their length and width to perfectly suit your shoes.

Key Specs:
Size Options:
Five (men’s 3-14.5, women’s 5-16.5) | Length Options: Multiple (trimmable) | Arch Height Options: Multiple (adjustable)

Best for Flat Feet

ProFoot Flat Fix Orthotic

ProFoot Flat Fix Orthotic

Amazon

Pros
  • Shock-absorbing heel

  • Shorter length for less bulk

Cons
  • Limited size range

  • Not trimmable

ProFoot’s Flat Fix Orthotic, one of the best insoles for flat feet, is shorter and designed to cushion your arches and stabilize your heel. Crafted with plush foam, they contour your feet to give you personalized support with each step. Since they're designed to fill just three-quarters of your shoes, they deliver support where you need it most and free up space where you don't.

A flexible heel cup sits at the back of each insole—ProFoot calls this the "trampoline-effect heel." Helping cut down on pronation, the cup stabilizes the heel while cushioning your feet and absorbing shock. Since the insoles were designed with flat feet in mind, they’re available in just one style. That said, they do come in a men’s variation and a women’s variation.

Key Specs:
Size Options:
One (men’s 8-13, women’s 6-10) | Length Options: Full-length | Arch Height Options: One (designed for flat feet)

Best for Bunions

Powerstep Thin Arch Support Shoe Orthotic Inserts

Powerstep Thin Arch Support Shoe Orthotic Inserts

Amazon

Pros
  • Heel pad cuts down on slipping

  • Not bulky

  • Features support shell for extra support

Cons
  • Only designed for one arch height

  • May peel over time

Insoles can be a great way to cushion your shoes for comfort, but they can add some serious bulk to your shoes. And if you have bunions, anything that makes your shoes feel tight, cramped, or otherwise uncomfortable is a no-go. Thankfully Powerstep’s Thin Arch Support Insoles are a low-profile insole that won't take up much space.

The sleek set is designed to fill just three-fourths of your shoes and they aren't lined with much padding. Instead, they feature a layer of low-profile support, which should be firm enough to hold up over time (though you shouldn’t expect a ton in the way of cushioned arch support). With that said, the insoles should still be a step up from whatever removable liners are already inside your shoes.

Key Specs:
Size Options:
Six (men’s 4-13, women’s 6-12) | Length Options: 3/4 length | Arch Height Options: One (one-size-fits-all)

How We Selected and Tested the Best Orthotics

With hundreds of insoles and orthotics on the market, targeting a wide variety of foot concerns and needs, it can be difficult to find the right pair. Luckily, we spent hours researching and testing to find the best orthotics on the market to meet your unique needs. To begin creating our list of recommendations, we first spoke with two podiatrist to learn more about foot health and what makes a good pair of orthotics:

Next, we thoroughly researched dozens of best-selling products from popular foot care brands, sifting through to find top-quality orthotics that target a variety of foot concerns and needs. Then, with the guidance of podiatrist Dr. Diana Levin Valencia, DPM, we tested several pairs of orthotics by wearing them for a full day (an 8-hour period) at least five times.

During wear-testing, we paid attention to how comfortable and supported our feet felt, asking questions like: Do my feet feel hot and constricted? Are they more or less tired and achey after a full day of wear? Do the orthotics solve a specific problem (like plantar fasciitis or foot pain)? Finally, we rated each tested pair of orthotics on a scale of 1 (would not recommend) to 5 (highly recommend) for support, comfort, pain relief, breathability, and overall value.

Five of the orthotics that we tested performed exceedingly well in each of these categories, earning a spot on our final list. We used the guidance from our expert interviews and our thorough research and testing to take out the guesswork and help you find the best pair of orthotics for your personal needs.

A person running on the treadmill while wearing Superfeet Carbon insoles.

Verywell Fit / Jhett Thompson

What to Look for in Orthotics

Customization

“Perhaps the biggest factor that sets apart custom orthotics from over-the-counter orthotics is customization,” Dr. Schaeffer says. While over-the-counter orthotics aren’t quite as customizable as prescription orthotics, some options are more customizable than others. And customizable features can increase the likelihood that you’ll find a set of insoles that suits your feet.

First, look for adjustable arch support. Can you increase or decrease the amount of arch support your insoles offer? If not, can you choose how much arch support you want when you first buy the insoles? Then, keep an eye out for adjustable insole size. Can you choose the precise size that suits your foot? What about the width and length? Is the insole trimmable, so that you can alter its size and shape to suit your shoes?

With most over-the-counter orthotics, the customization stops there. But some are designed to accommodate specific pain points, daily habits, and shoe types as well.

Credibility

Buying orthotic insoles for a specific health condition or pain point? Try to find options that are “clinically effective” at solving your problem. “That’s a label assurance that the product has been tested and shown to provide the benefits claimed on the label,” Dr. Schaeffer says. When shopping, you’ll encounter a lot of different claims, but don’t count on those claims until you know they’re backed by research. Even then, you may want to look up the associated study to see what it actually found.

Size

Orthotic insoles come in many different sizes, lengths, and widths. First, you’ll want to make sure your orthotics are the right size. Some orthotics come in specific shoe sizes, while others are available in a size range. Those that come in a size range are often trimmable, so you can cut them down to suit your feet.

Second, you’ll want to make sure your orthotics are the right length. Orthotics are typically designed to either fill the full length of your shoe or to fill three-quarters of your shoe. A podiatrist can help you understand which option is right for you.

Finally, orthotics can come in different widths. While most will come in one standard width, there are some narrower and wider options available. If your insoles are trimmable, you can also cut them to be narrower as needed.

A person holding a Superfeet Carbon insole that has been cut in half lengthwise to show the arch.

Verywell Fit / Jhett Thompson

Arch Support

In addition to being available in different sizes, orthotics are often available with different levels of arch support. Some orthotic insoles come in multiple arch support styles, allowing you to customize the level of arch support when you buy. Others are available with arch support pads, which you can use to increase or decrease the arch support in your insoles after you’ve bought them.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What conditions require orthotics?

    Conditions that require orthotics include flat feet and high arches. Flat feet can lead to other conditions such as bunions, plantar fasciitis, and osteoarthritis. As well, if you have a leg length discrepancy (one leg slightly longer than the other) or a lateral pelvic tilt (hip hike with hip higher on one side), you may require an orthotic on one side.

  • How long do orthotics last?

    Orthotics can last three to five years, but you may need to replace them sooner, depending on changes to your physiology. These changes can include weight loss or gain, pregnancy, or other physical reasons. If you notice wear and tear, it is best to replace your orthotics.

  • How should I clean orthotics?

    Clean your orthotics according to brand instructions. In most cases, that will mean wiping them with a soft, damp cloth using a mild soap. Allow your orthotics to fully air dry before you place them back in your shoes to prevent bacteria build-up. Clean your orthotics regularly.

  • Should I wear orthotics all the time?

    If you have custom orthotics, it is best to wear them every day to maintain their benefits. Orthotics correct issues that otherwise are not being addressed when you do not wear them. If you are concerned about wearing them every day, speak to your podiatrist about options that may be best for you.

Why Trust Verywell Fit

As a seasoned health and fitness writer, Lindsey Lanquist understands how vital quality product recommendations can be. She is careful to recommend products that are reliable, comfortable, and genuinely well-reviewed by those who’ve tried them.

2 Sources
Verywell Fit uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read our editorial process to learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.
  1. Institute for Preventive Foot Health. Causes of narrow heels.

  2. Durak E. The use of the Power Step Shoe Insert to manage plantar fasciitis pain in industrial workers: A seven-year pilot report. J Ergonomics. 2016;06(01). doi:10.4172/2165-7556.1000150