Whether we’re on them all day for work or just out walking the dog, at some point, we all experience aching feet. No part of the body bears more pressure than our feet which bear the brunt of the daily burden of everyday life. The necessity for maintaining mobility behooves all of us to help support our ambulation so that we can move efficiently, comfortably and free from discomfort. The fundamental function of an insert is to support our arch, distribute weight more efficiently and keep our feet in alignment with our ankles and legs. While there are many options to achieve this including braces, custom orthotics and even surgery, the over the counter orthotic is often the first line of treatment for a multitude of foot problems. However with a plethora of arch supports on the market. It’s often difficult to decipher which product will provide the best solution. Here are my top 5 recommendations for over the counter arch supports. These are recommended for an initial potential solution of general aching feet and are not designed for treating all foot ailments. As always, it is best to first see your podiatrist to appropriately diagnose and treat your foot problem.
1) Powerstep Pinnacle
With over 30 years of experience in the orthotic industry, the powerstep insert is a reliable and well constructed insole which is commonly recommended and dispensed within my office. There are over 40 products so it can be difficult to decipher which one is best (and that’s where your podiatrist will come in handy), however the Powerstep pinnacle is my recommendation for general common foot pains (heel spurs, plantar fasciitis, end of the day sore feet ect). A US made full length insert, with a robust arch support for the neutral or slightly low arch. The EVA foam layer and fabric top cover reduces stress and fatigue and provides a well cushioned and durable construct.
Key Points
- Well supportive arch construct
- EVA foam to cushion the heel and arch
- Fabric top cover adds durability
2. Redi-Thotics Quik-Form Heat Moldable Insoles
These full length insoles are unique in the sense that they can potentially provide a more ‘custom’ approach allowing the patient to modify the arch height with heat (2 minutes in the oven at 250 degrees). This does create a great way to obtain an arch more specific to the patient and despite this function the arch remains rigid and supportive when fully cooled. It also has a slightly deeper heel cup for extra stability. The product also advertises a pedura ‘bounce back’ cushioned cover which appears comparable to its EVA counterpart but does seem a little thinner than the powerstep version. The Barrettex top cover also wicks moisture away while maintaining a soft upper for extra comfort and dryness.
Key Points
- Heat moldable ability creates a ‘pseudo-custom’ approach for a potentially more contoured arch support.
- Deep heel cup provides greater rearfoot stability
- Barrettex top cover: removes moisture to keep feet dry.
3. Spenco Total Support Max
Another great full length insert designed for the more active patient. In addition to a supportive rigid arch Spenco boasts a patented 3-pod modulation system with zones of various composite densities positioned to key areas of the foot to counter over-pronation to help guide one’s stride This is a great construct and certainly does provide a lot of support with an efficient feeling stride. Another nice addition is the incorporated metatarsal pad to off-load pressures of forefoot loading. Layered again with a EVA type material to provide shock absorption and a low friction anti-microbial top cover. I Also like the perforated forefoot that promotes airflow through the insert.
Key Points:
- Great support and efficient stride technology with the 3-pod modulation system
- Incorporated metatarsal pad to reduce ball of the foot pressures
- Perforated forefoot area which adds flexibility and promotes airflow through the insert.
4. 10 Seconds 3810 Ultra Support Poron Insoles
A full-length, semi-rigid orthotic arch support insole designed for the neutral to high arch types. It advertises a strategically placed poron foam technology for maximum shock absorption to high impact areas and like the Spenco insole it also has a metatarsal pad to off-load forefoot pressures. A deeper heel cup than most for stability and I like the external carbon fiber heel and arch support which provides a lightweight but sturdy feel to the insole and claims the ability to dampen vibrations.
Key Points:
- Deep heel cup for increased stability.
- External carbon fiber support for lightweight stability and shock absorption.
- Focal shock absorption poron foam.
5. Walkomfy Pain Relief Orthotics
The Walkomfy arch supports offers many of the features already discussed including a deep heel cup, EVA support, and metatarsal pad. It differs with its odor reduction anti-slip velvet fabric and high density PU FOAM which feels delicate, soft and breathable. It also uses a cork probarloc shell to support the arch and dissipate shock. The main difference with this insert however is the cost; being notably cheaper than its competitors, it’s a great inexpensive way to see if you would potentially benefit from an orthotic.
Key points
- Cork probarloc shell
- Velvet anti-slip fabric odor reduction design
- Cost: Cheaper option.