Fitness Gear Footwear The Best Insoles for Flat Feet That a Personal Trainer Recommends Powerstep's Pinnacle Pink Maxx Insole provides good support and cushioning By Christine Luff, ACE-CPT Christine Luff, ACE-CPT LinkedIn Twitter Christine Many Luff is a personal trainer, fitness nutrition specialist, and Road Runners Club of America Certified Coach. Learn about our editorial process Updated on September 15, 2022 Medically reviewed Verywell Fit articles are reviewed by board-certified physicians and nutrition and exercise healthcare professionals. Medical Reviewers confirm the content is thorough and accurate, reflecting the latest evidence-based research. Content is reviewed before publication and upon substantial updates. Learn more. by Erin Pereira, PT, DPT Medically reviewed by Erin Pereira, PT, DPT LinkedIn Erin Pereira, PT, DPT, is a board-certified clinical specialist in orthopedic physical therapy. 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Verywell / Chloe Jeong People with flat feet have a shallow arch or no arch, sometimes leading to foot, knee, leg, and back pain. While some people choose surgery, external interventions—like the right pair of insoles—may alleviate issues that come from flat feet. Reviewed & Approved We chose Powerstep's Pinnacle Pink Maxx Insole as our best overall pick because it provides good support, cushioning, and is durable. Spenco Total Support Max Shoe Insoles are another solid choice for their great shock absorption and added heel cushioning. There is no specific category of insoles for overpronation, but looking for flexible materials is a good place to start. “Look for stronger material that resists friction,” John Huenink, founder of custom insole company BioMoto, says. Huenink notes that finding an insole with a metatarsal pad may help correct the issue of flat feet. In addition to pain relief, insoles can also make your shoes more comfortable and supportive. We researched dozens of insoles for flat feet and evaluated them for material, price, durability, cushion, and support. We also consulted with experts, including Dr. Huenink, for insight on what to look for in insoles for flat feet. Each of the insoles for flat feet chosen in this article was determined to be the best of these factors. According to our research, here are the best insoles for flat feet on the market. Our Top Picks Best Women's Overall: Powerstep Pinnacle Pink Maxx Cushion Insole at Amazon Jump to Review Best Men's Overall: Spenco Total Support Max Shoe Insoles at Amazon Jump to Review Best Budget: Walk-Hero Comfort and Support Plantar Fasciitis Insoles at Amazon Jump to Review Best for Standing All Day: Superfeet Unisex Black Premium Insoles at Amazon Jump to Review Best for Plantar Fasciitis: SOLE Active Insoles at Amazon Jump to Review Best for Running: Superfeet Unisex Premium Blue Insoles at Amazon Jump to Review Best for Hiking: Vionic Unisex Full-Length Orthotic Shoe Insole at Amazon Jump to Review Best for Work Boots: Timberland Pro Anti-Fatigue Technology Insoles at Amazon Jump to Review Best for Overpronation: Powerstep Original Full Length Orthotic Shoe Insoles at Amazon Jump to Review Best for Walking: Spenco PolySorb Cross Trainer Insoles at Amazon Jump to Review In This Article Expand Our Picks How We Selected What to Look For Best Women's Overall: Powerstep Pinnacle Pink Maxx Cushion Insole 4.9 Courtesy of PowerStep View On Amazon View On Powerstep.com Pros Good support and cushioning Durable Antimicrobial, wicking fabric Cons Expensive Powerstep Pinnacle Maxx insoles offer the right combination of foot support, control, and cushioning, which is why we chose them as our top pick. They have a firm yet flexible shell that helps support and stabilize your feet, as well as shock-absorbing cushioning in the heel to reduce impact on the area. Additionally, the encapsulated design, arch support, and deep heel cradle help with motion control. With an antimicrobial polyester outer layer, they also help keep your feet comfortable, odor-free, and dry by reducing friction and heat. Price at time of publication: $48 Materials: Polyester fabric | Cushioning: EVA foam base, Hypurcel foam | Care: Machine wash, lay flat to dry Best Men's Overall: Spenco Total Support Max Shoe Insoles Courtesy of Amazon View On Amazon View On Zappos View On Theinsolestore.com Pros Great motion control Flexible and breathable Cushioning and shock absorption Cons May need a trim before use Designed to promote healthier biomechanical movement, we love that these Spenco insoles help to counteract overpronation and guide your stride for a more natural gait. They also have excellent support but don’t force a high arch, enhancing the overall comfort for people with flat feet. The SpenCore heel plug adds cushioning and helps absorb shock in the heel area, a huge plus for those who suffer from plantar fasciitis or other heel pain. Available in men’s sizes 6 to 17.5, these insoles also have anti-friction and anti-odor fabric to keep your feet blister-free and smelling fresh. Price at time of publication: $45 Materials: Polyester | Cushioning: EVA foam | Care: Hand wash Best Budget: Walk-Hero Comfort and Support Plantar Fasciitis Insoles Courtesy of Amazon View On Amazon View On Walmart Pros Excellent shock absorption Durable but lightweight Cons Not machine-washable Walk Hero Support Insoles are an affordable option, but there’s a lot more to like about them beyond the budget-friendly price. The semi-rigid orthotic arch support improves balance and alignments, while the deep heel cup also stabilizes your foot. With a lightweight, shock-absorbing foam base and a full-length footbed, we love that you also get supportive cushioning from toe to heel. The antimicrobial and moisture-wicking fabric is a nice bonus feature that’s not often found in inexpensive insoles. Price at time of publication: $25 Materials: Synthetic | Cushioning: EVA foam | Care: Hand wash with soap and water The 11 Best Orthotics of 2022 Best for Standing All Day: Superfeet Unisex Black Premium Insoles Amazon View On Amazon View On Zappos Pros Low-profile, yet supportive Extremely durable Can fit in all types of shoes Cons May feel stiff at first Expensive We recommend these versatile Superfeet insoles for people with flat feet who stand a lot during the day. The low-profile and flexible Superfeet shape provides stability and support, helping to reduce fatigue and stress on the feet, ankles, and knees. The reinforced rearfoot and heel cup add to the overall support and help reduce movement and shifting in your shoes. With high-density foam cushioning throughout, these insoles will keep your feet feeling comfortable so you can get through your day pain-free. They come in a wide range of men’s and women’s sizes for an accurate fit. Price at time of publication: $55 Materials: Moisture-wicking antimicrobial synthetic fabric | Cushioning: High-density foam | Care: Hand wash with mild soap and lukewarm water, air dry Best for Plantar Fasciitis: SOLE Active Insoles Courtesy of REI View On Amazon View On REI View On Theinsolestore.com Pros Good support and cushioning Moldable for a custom fit Good shock absorption Cons Expensive Plantar fasciitis is common among people with flat feet, but wearing the right insoles can help reduce the risk. These durable insoles from Sole have the sturdy yet flexible support and excellent shock absorption that those with plantar fasciitis need. We like that the deep heel cup allows for natural foot alignment, helping to prevent lateral movement and keep the foot in place. These eco-friendly insoles adapt to the shape of your foot through wear or heat molding, so you get a custom fit. They’re also moisture-wicking and have an odor-control coating, so your feet stay dry and odor-free. Price at time of publication: $55 Materials: Synthetic material, Polygiene coating | Cushioning: EVA foam, Softec cushioning | Care: Hand wash 8 Best Insoles for Plantar Fasciitis of 2022 for Walking in Comfort Best for Running: Superfeet Unisex Premium Blue Insoles Amazon View On Amazon View On Zappos Pros Durable Shock absorption for repetitive impact Not bulky, yet well-cushioned Cons Too stiff for some people Expensive Another outstanding product from Superfeet, these Blue Insoles are designed to provide support, shock absorption, and stability, and are ideal for runners with flat feet. They’re made with high-density foam with exceptional cushioning, yet they’re lightweight and not bulky, so they don’t take up a lot of space. We like that the wide, deep heel cup provides extra cushioning and helps prevent your foot from rolling, while also reducing impact. Superfeet insoles are a bit stiffer than other inserts, but provide exceptional support and firm cushioning. Price at time of publication: $55 Materials: Moisture-wicking antimicrobial synthetic fabric | Cushioning: High-density foam | Care: Hand wash with mild soap and lukewarm water, air dry The Best Insoles for Running, According to a Running Coach Best for Hiking: Vionic Unisex Full-Length Orthotic Shoe Insole Amazon View On Amazon Pros Very cushioned Flexible Motion control for hiking and walking Cons Not for low-profile shoes These versatile insoles were designed by a podiatrist, so they have the cushioning, support, and stability right where those with flat feet need it most. With a sculpted EVA footbed, they provide moderate arch support, heel-cupping, and full-foot cushioning. They also help to realign the positioning of the feet and prevent excessive pronation, keeping you comfortable and pain-free while hiking, walking, and doing other activities. Available in both men’s and women’s sizes, we like that they’re comfortable right out of the package, with no break-in period required. Price at time of publication: $40 Materials: Nylon | Cushioning: EVA foam footbed | Care: Hand wash Best for Work Boots: Timberland Pro Anti-Fatigue Technology Insoles Amazon View On Amazon View On Timberland.com Pros Good support and cushioning Durable Versatile Cons May need a trim before use These versatile insoles from Timberland can easily slip into hiking boots or running shoes, but we think they’re also a great choice for work boots. They’re designed with anti-fatigue technology, delivering all-day support, comfort, and shock absorption. The fabric top cover provides temperature regulation and anti-microbial odor control. Ideal for anyone who spends long days with their feet in work boots, they come in a wide range of shoe sizes, from a men's 5 to 15, and can be trimmed for an exact fit. Price at time of publication: $30 Materials: Ortholite fabric | Cushioning: EVA foam | Care: Hand wash with soap and water Best for Overpronation: Powerstep Original Full Length Orthotic Shoe Insoles 4.8 Courtesy of Walmart View On Amazon View On Walmart Pros Good shock absorption Durable Cons Break-in period required A popular choice among people with flat feet, the PowerStep insole provides outstanding support and shock absorption. With built-in arch support and a deep heel cradle, it provides stability and motion control for those whose feet overpronate, or rotate in when they’re walking or running. We love that the antimicrobial polyester lining prevents bacterial buildup and wicks away moisture, keeping your feet dry and smelling fresh. Reasonably priced and easy to clean, they also feature a unisex design that will accommodate any type of foot. Price at time of publication: $42 Materials: EVA foam base, polyester top fabric | Cushioning: EVA foam | Care: Hand wash The Best Insoles for Your Shoes of 2022 Best for Walking: Spenco PolySorb Cross Trainer Insoles Walmart View On Amazon View On Walmart View On Zappos Pros Good support and shock absorption Budget-friendly Lightweight yet durable Cons Not for low-profile shoes If you have flat feet and walk for exercise or spend a lot of time on your feet, we recommend these Spenco insoles for a smart choice that'll keep you comfortable. They feature four-way stretch fabric for superb comfort and performance, as well as soft forefoot cushioning with excellent shock absorption and energy return with each step. The lightweight foam footbed offers additional support in the arches and heels, while the heel plug enhances the overall cushioning and impact protection. Available in a variety of sizes to fit all genders, they’re also made with an antimicrobial material that reduces friction and helps to control odor. Price at time of publication: $25 Materials: Nylon | Cushioning: EVA foam | Care: Machine wash or hand wash, air dry How We Selected the Best Insoles for Flat Feet The right insole can ease aches and pains, even after a long day of walking. After reviewing dozens of insoles from top trusted retailers, we selected our top insoles for flat feet based on insights from experts, including Alex Kor, DPM, MS, a podiatrist, and John Huenink, founder of custom insole company BioMoto. We also based our top selections on the level of support, cushioning, and shock absorption offered. Then, we looked at how durable the insoles were, whether they needed a break-in period, and how easy they are to slip into your shoes. Finally, we considered flexibility, price, and durability—including whether the insoles were machine-washable and easy to care for. What to Look for in Insoles for Flat Feet Shoe Type A huge factor in choosing your insoles is the shoes you’re planning to use them in. If you’re wearing them in walking or running shoes, you’ll most likely be able to remove the existing insole and replace it, so the thickness of the insole won’t be an issue. However, if you’re wearing dress shoes or low-profile ones, you should probably opt for thinner, more lightweight insoles, like Superfeet's Unisex Black Premium Insoles. Support People with flat feet or those prone to foot issues such as plantar fasciitis need firm arch support. The severity of your flat feet should determine the level of support you need. If you have totally collapsed arches, you might need more corrective arch support, while those with a slight arch could use low-profile support. Cushioning Insoles for flat feet should have ample cushioning for shock absorption and comfort, but also enhance the overall support. If you experience shin splints or walk primarily on pavement, you may need some more cushioning. Frequently Asked Questions Do insoles help flat feet? A good pair of insoles can support or raise the arch, giving people with flat feet relief from muscle strain and other foot pain. “Inserts can be beneficial to people with flat feet because the inserts can limit excessive pronation that can contribute to pain,” Alex Kor, DPM, MS, a podiatrist in Lebanon, Ind., says. “By controlling this abnormal motion, the patient is usually able to perform normal daily activities with little to no pain.” How much does a quality pair of insoles for flat feet cost? You can expect to pay between $20-$60 for a high quality pair of insoles for flat feet. Cheaper options may not work in all kinds of shoes and may not offer the level of support and cushioning you need while standing for long periods of time. More expensive models might provide better shock absorption and will probably be more durable. The cheapest insoles on our list, Walk-Hero's Comfort and Support Plantar Fasciitis Insoles, are often available for less than $20. Meanwhile, our top overall pick, Powerstep's Pinnacle Pink Maxx Cushion Insole, was $48 when we published this list. 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. Cleveland Clinic. Flat feet. Huang YP, Peng HT, Wang X, Chen ZR, Song CY. The arch support insoles show benefits to people with flatfoot on stance time, cadence, plantar pressure and contact area. PLoS One. 2020;15(8):e0237382. doi:10.1371/journal.pone.0237382 See Our Editorial Process Meet Our Review Board Share Feedback Was this page helpful? Thanks for your feedback! What is your feedback? Other Helpful Report an Error Submit