5 Best Insoles For Plantar Fasciitis (While Exercising)
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If you’re a Crossfit or workout enthusiast, then you know that having the right insoles is essential for peak performance. If you also have Plantar Fasciitis then extra foot support using shoe insoles is often needed.
Not all shoe insoles are created equal, so I did some research and testing to help you find the best insoles for Plantar Fasciitis.
In this article, I’ll discuss the different types of Plantar Fasciitis insoles available and help you decide which ones are best for your needs. I’ll also provide tips on how to choose the right pair of insoles for Plantar Fasciitis (with an emphasis on Crossfit or working out) and how to use them effectively.
Shoe Insoles for Weight Lifting vs. Metcons
There are a few different types of insoles that are popular among Crossfitters. The most common are weightlifting shoes, Metcon shoes, and minimalist shoes.
Each type of shoe has its own unique benefits and features.
Weightlifting shoes, for example, offer support and stability for heavy lifting, while Metcon shoes are designed for high-intensity interval training (HIIT).
Minimalist shoes are a good choice for Crossfitters who want a more natural feel during their workouts.
So, which type of insole should you use for weights vs. Metcons?
The answer depends on your personal preferences and the type of workout you’re doing.
If you’re lifting heavy weights, then you’ll want to use a weightlifting shoe with a solid heel. This will provide the support and stability you need to avoid injury.
For Metcons, you can use any type of shoe, but I recommend a lightweight and breathable option like the Nike Free TR Flyknit. This will help you stay comfortable during your workout and minimize the risk of blisters.
How to Choose the Right Insole for Plantar Fasciitis
When choosing the best insole for Plantar Fasciitis, it’s important to select the right size.
If the insole is too big, it will slip around inside your shoe and could cause blisters. If it’s too small, it won’t provide the support and cushioning you need.
To find the right size insole, simply remove your shoe’s existing insole and measure it. Then, compare the measurements to the size chart of the insole you’re interested in.
Make sure to select an insole that goes the full length and width of your shoe’s existing insole.
What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?
Plantar fasciitis is a condition that causes pain in the heel and bottom of the foot. It is typically caused by overuse, such as from running or playing sports.
It can also be caused by wearing shoes that do not support the arch of the foot.
Treatment for plantar fasciitis includes rest, ice, and stretching exercises.
In some cases, a doctor may recommend wearing a splint at night or taking over-the-counter pain relievers.
If the pain is severe, a doctor may inject corticosteroids into the heel. Surgery is rarely needed to treat plantar fasciitis.
Benefits of Wearing Insoles for Plantar Fasciitis
Wearing insoles can help relieve the pain of plantar fasciitis. They can also help prevent the condition from getting worse.
Insoles support the arch of the foot and cushion the heel, which helps reduce stress on the tissues in the foot.
If you have plantar fasciitis, I recommend trying a pair of supportive insoles.
I also recommend avoiding high heels, which can worsen the condition.
5 Best Insoles for Plantar Fasciitis
1. Powerstep Orthotic Insoles for Men and Women
Insole cushioning is an important part of making a shoe comfortable, but as a Crossfit user, it’s not enough.
Powerstep Orthotic insoles create the right mix of balance, cushion, and support so that you feel the weight of the workout in your body, not because of your shoes. This is especially helpful if you have plantar fasciitis.
The Powerstep inserts have a heel cradle, solid arch support, and a flexible support shell made of plastic for increased stability.
The heel cradle feature is great because it minimizes pressure and pain on the heels while doing exercises that require standing for long periods.
The Powerstep insert has dual-layer cushioning, lightweight and low profile, which blends into any shoe you use – Crossfit or casual.
Also, it has an anti-microbial layer on top which helps to keep the feet dry and comfortable.
Pros:
- The heel cradle minimizes pressure and pain
- Flexible support shell for increased stability
- Dual-layer cushioning is ultra-thin and low profile
- The anti-microbial layer helps keep feet dry and comfortable
Cons:
- Some users find that the arch support is too high.
- Others find that the heel cradle rubs against the Achilles tendon.
Get the Power Insoles for Plantar Fasciitis on Amazon
2. Spenco Rx Orthotics Arch Support Insoles
The Spenco Rx Orthotic Arch Support Insole is a great choice for people with plantar fasciitis or other foot conditions that cause heel pain.
The insole has arch support that helps to stabilize the foot and reduce stress on the tissues. It also has a gel heel cup that helps to cushion the heel and shock absorption.
The insole is made of a soft, breathable fabric that helps to keep the foot cool and dry. It is also thin and may be cut to match any shoe size.
The Spenco insole is one of the best insoles for Crossfit users, with seven sizes to fit every footwear and a four-way stretch fabric that controls odor and prevents blisters.
Pros:
- Arch support helps to stabilize the foot
- The Gel heel cup provides support and stability to the heel
- Made of a soft, breathable fiber can
- Can be trimmed to fit any shoe size
Cons:
- Some users find that the insoles are too wide for women’s shoes.
- Others have found the return policy to be null and void.
Get the Spenco Rx Orthotics Insoles on Amazon
3. Dr.Scholl’s Plantar Fasciitis Pain Relief Orthotics
Dr. Scholl’s Plantar Fasciitis Orthotics is a great all-around product – whether you need arch support for daily use or specifically to prevent pain from possible shin splints, runner’s knee, or plantar fasciitis.
In addition, it has three-way protection for shock absorption of up to 40% and an anti-moisture layer for odor control.
Pros:
- Offers three-way protection for shock absorption
- Helps to control odor
- It may be cut to match any shoe size.
- Durable up to 6 months
Cons:
- Some users find that the product is too stiff, thus making the shoes tighter for their feet.
- Others have found that the insole increased the weight of their shoes.
Get Dr.Scholl’s Insoles for Plantar Fasciitis on Amazon
4. Superfeet GREEN Orthotics Insoles
The Superfeet GREEN Orthotics Insole is a great choice for people who are looking for support and cushioning.
The breathable, anti-moisture fabric of the insole absorbs shock and minimizes foot impact. It also includes arch support that aids in the stability of the foot and decreases stress on muscles.
The insole is composed of a breathable, anti-moisture fabric that keeps the feet cool and dry while also assisting with odor.
The Superfeet insole is one of the best insoles for Crossfit users, with a wide range of sizes to fit every footwear and high-quality construction that will last for years.
Pros:
- The dual-layer foam absorbs shock and reduces the impact
- A supportive arch helps to stabilize the foot
- Made of a breathable, anti-microbial fabric
- It may be trimmed to fit any shoe size.
Cons:
- Some users find that the insoles are too stiff.
- Others have found that the arch support is too high.
Get the Superfeet GREEN Insoles on Amazon
5. Uxcell Eva Foam Athletic Shoe Insoles
The durable EVA foam in these insoles creates an anti-moisture layer that helps to control odor.
Eva insoles have great arch support and a U-heel cup for stability and shock absorption. In addition, the honeycomb design makes it breathable, easy to wash, and air dry.
Eva insoles are available in US sizes 4-15 and have four different color variants for you to choose from.
Pros:
- Durable EVA foam creates an anti-moisture layer
- U-heel cup provides stability and shock absorption
- The honeycomb design is breathable and easy to wash
- Available in the US sizes four to fifteen
Cons:
- Some users find that the insoles are too thin.
- Others have found that the honeycomb design makes the insole too stiff.
Get the EVA Foam Insoles on Amazon
Top Plantar Fasciitis Insole Picks – In Summary
- The Spenco insole is one of the best Plantar Fasciitis insoles for Crossfit users, with seven sizes to fit every footwear and four-way stretch fabric that controls odor and prevents blisters.
The insole is also anatomically designed to support the natural contours of your feet. - The Dr. Scholls running insole is another great choice for people who are looking for support and cushioning.
The footbed features a dual layer of foam that absorbs shock and cushions the impact on the feet. It also has arch support to stabilize the foot and minimize tissue stress.
The insole is composed of a breathable, anti-moisture fabric that keeps the foot cool and dry while also aiding odor control. - The Superfeet GREEN Orthotics Insole is a great choice for people who need extra support and cushioning.
The midfoot and rearfoot cushions are made of dual-layer foam that absorbs shock and reduces the impact on the feet. It also has arch support that aids in the maintenance of balance and the reduction of stress on the tissues.
This insole is also made of a breathable, anti-moisture fabric that helps to keep the foot cool and dry while also reducing odor. It’s also light and may be cut to suit any shoe size.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I work out with insoles?
There’s no right or wrong answer to this question. It is based on your own requirements and preferences.
If you have high arches, for example, you might benefit from the extra support that insoles provide. Or, if you suffer from heel pain, you might find that insoles help to reduce the amount of stress on your feet.
Ultimately, it’s up to you to decide whether or not you want to work out with insoles.
How often should I replace my shoe insoles?
If you wear your insoles on a daily basis, you should replace them every six months. If you only use them occasionally, you can get away with replacing them every year or so.
It’s important to inspect your insoles regularly and replace them when they start to show signs of wear and tear.
Are Protalus insoles worth the money?
Protalus insoles are a bit on the pricier side, but they’re definitely worth the investment. You are on your feet every day.
I compare it to a bed mattress. You are sleeping in your bed every night. Why not pay a little more and get something that is going to help you sleep more restful? Yes, we are not in the same price range but the point is that you are on your feet so much. Get something that helps regardless of the cost.
The Protalus insole company offers a wide range of sizes and styles to choose from, so you’re sure to find a pair that fits your needs. Plus, the quality of their products is top-notch, so you can rest assured that you’re getting your money’s worth.
How does a deep heel cup help?
A deep heel cup helps to stabilize the foot and reduce stress on the tissues. It also helps to absorb shock and reduce the impact on the feet.
By keeping the foot in a natural position, a deep heel cup can help to prevent injuries and improve your overall performance.
Do I need arch support?
Again, there’s no right or wrong answer to this question. It depends on your own needs and preferences. If you are experiencing foot pain then the answer is likely yes! You can ask your doctor as well. There are specific insoles for a variety of needs such as insoles that are great for hiking.
If you have high arches, for example, you might benefit from the extra support that arch support provides. But, ultimately, it’s up to you to decide whether or not you want arch support in your insoles.
What is the difference between over-the-counter and custom-made insoles?
Over-the-counter insoles are mass-produced and designed to fit a wide range of foot sizes.
On the other hand, custom-made insoles are made to order and molded to the specific contours of your feet.
While custom-made insoles are more expensive, they offer a more tailored fit and can be more effective in reducing pain and improving your overall performance.
What is the best material for insoles?
There is a wide range of materials used in the construction of insoles. Some of the most popular options include gel, foam, and leather.
Gel or foam might be the way to go if you’re looking for a lightweight option. On the other hand, if you’re looking for something more durable, leather might be a better choice.
Can I wash my insoles?
Yes, you can wash most shoe insoles. Just be sure to use a mild detergent, and let them air dry afterward. Do not put them in the dryer, as this can damage the material.
If you need to clean your shoes, check out my article on cleaning leather shoes or suede shoes.
Do I need to wear socks with my insoles?
No, you don’t have to wear socks with your shoe insoles. I like to wear them so as to keep my shoes from smelling bad.
Some people find that wearing socks makes their feet sweat more, which can lead to irritation and discomfort. I’m the opposite. If I don’t wear socks my feet still sweat and just make my shoe smell.
If you do choose to wear socks with your insoles, be sure to choose a breathable option like cotton or wool.
How do I know if my shoes will be too tight with insoles?
If your shoes are leaving marks on your feet or causing you pain, they’re probably too small.
Another way to tell if your shoes are too small is to try and insert a finger between your heel and the back of the shoe. If you can’t do this, your shoes are too small.
Best Insoles for Plantar Fasciitis – My Final Thoughts
There are a lot of different factors to consider when choosing the best insoles for Plantar Fasciitis.
You need to think about what kind of support you need. For example, do you have high arches? Do you suffer from heel pain? Once you’ve considered your own needs, you can narrow down the field to a few of the top insoles for Plantar Fasciitis on the market.
I also researched the top insoles for standing all day and insoles for walking if you want to take a look at a few more options.
By taking the time to think about your own needs and preferences, you can narrow down the field to a few of the best options on the market.
With a little research, you can find the perfect pair of Plantar Fasciitis insoles to help relieve your foot issues.
Browse all Insoles for Plantar Fasciitis on Walmart