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 $30. Meanwhile, our top overall pick, Powerstep's Pinnacle Pink Maxx Cushion Insole, was between $38 and $45 when we published this list.

The 10 Best Insoles for Flat Feet of 2023, Per Experts

People with flat feet have a shallow arch or no arch, sometimes leading to foot, knee, leg, and back pain. If your feet are aching after a long day of walking, your shoes may be to blame—but the right pair of insoles can provide the support your arches need. Insoles are a budget-friendly way to gently align your feet while relieving pressure and discomfort, without having to give up on your favorite shoes.

When shopping for insoles for flat feet, pay attention to the structure of each pair, as well as the materials they're made of. “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 also help alleviate symptoms.

We researched dozens of insoles for flat feet and evaluated them based on material, price, durability, cushioning, and support. A physical therapist from our Review Board also reviewed this article for accuracy and the best ways to evaluate insoles for flat feet. We also consulted experts, including Dr. Huenink, for insight on what to look for in insoles for flat feet. These are our top picks for a more comfortable stride:

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 Blue All-Purpose Insoles at Amazon

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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

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Best for Overpronation:

Powerstep Original Insoles at Amazon

Jump to Review

Best for Walking:

Spenco PolySorb Cross Trainer Insoles at Amazon

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In This Article

Our Picks
How We Selected
What to Look For
FAQs
Why Trust Verywell Fit

4.9

Amazon

View On Amazon View On Powerstep.com

Pros

Good support and cushioning
Flexible
Antimicrobial, wicking fabric

Cons

May be too firm for some

Powerstep Pinnacle Maxx insoles offer the right combination of foot support, control, and cushioning, which is why we chose them as our top pick. We like that 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.

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. However, they are firmer than other picks on our list and may be too stiff for some wearers.

Price at time of publication: $38-$45

^{Key Specs:
Materials: Polyester fabric | Cushioning: EVA foam base, Hypurcel foam | Care: Machine wash, lay flat to dry}

View On Amazon View On Zappos View On Walmart

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 counteract overpronation and guide your stride for a more natural gait. They also have excellent support but don’t force a high arch, so you'll feel comfortable even if you're walking all day long.

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, we like that these insoles also have anti-friction and anti-odor fabric to keep your feet blister-free and smelling fresh. But you may need to trim them to fit your feet and your shoes before using them for the first time.

Price at time of publication: $36-$48

^{Key Specs:
Materials: Polyester | Cushioning: EVA foam | Care: Hand wash}

Amazon

View On Amazon View On Walmart

Pros

Excellent shock absorption
Durable but lightweight

Cons

Not machine-washable

There’s a lot more to like about Walk Hero's Support Insoles than just their budget-friendly price. The semi-rigid orthotic arch support improves balance and alignment, while the deep heel cup stabilizes your feet.

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. However, they're not machine-washable.

Price at time of publication: $25

^{Key Specs:
Materials: Synthetic | Cushioning: EVA foam | Care: Hand wash with soap and water}

Amazon

View On Amazon View On Fleetfeet.com View On Golfgalaxy.com

Pros

Low-profile, yet supportive
Anti-odor
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 to reduce fatigue and stress on your feet, ankles, and knees.

The reinforced rearfoot and heel cup add to the overall support and help reduce movement and shifting in your shoes. And we like that they have an anti-odor coating, to cut down on sweat and bacteria 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. But at first, they may feel stiff—and they're also more expensive than most pairs on our list.

Price at time of publication: $44-$55

^{Key Specs:
Materials: Moisture-wicking antimicrobial synthetic fabric | Cushioning: High-density foam | Care: Hand wash with mild soap and lukewarm water, air dry}

Amazon

View On Amazon View On REI View On Theinsolestore.com

Pros

Good support and cushioning
Moldable, for a custom fit
Excellent 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.

However, they come with a higher price tag than most other pairs on our list.

Price at time of publication: $55

^{Key Specs:
Materials: Synthetic material, Polygiene coating | Cushioning: EVA foam, Softec cushioning | Care: Hand wash}

Amazon

View On Amazon View On Dick's View On Chainreactioncycles.com

Pros

Durable
Shock absorption for repetitive impact
Not bulky, yet well-cushioned

Cons

Too stiff for some people
Expensive

Superfeet's Blue Insoles are designed to provide support, shock absorption, and stability for runners with flat feet. They’re made with high-density foam that provides exceptional cushioning. Even so, we like that 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. It also reduces impact, making these insoles a good match with running shoes for bad knees.

Superfeet insoles are a bit stiffer than other inserts, but they have exceptional support and firm cushioning. Just note that they're on the expensive side for insoles.

Price at time of publication: $55

^{Key Specs:
Materials: Moisture-wicking antimicrobial synthetic fabric | Cushioning: High-density foam | Care: Hand wash with mild soap and lukewarm water, air dry}

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 while hiking. With a sculpted EVA footbed, they provide moderate arch support and full-foot cushioning.

They also help realign your feet and prevent excessive pronation, keeping you feeling light on your feet. 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. However, they're not designed to fit in low-profile shoes.

Price at time of publication: $33-$35

^{Key Specs:
Materials: Nylon | Cushioning: EVA foam footbed | Care: Hand wash}

Amazon

View On Amazon View On Zappos View On Home Depot

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 that delivers 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 we like that they can be trimmed, for an exact fit.

Price at time of publication: $19-$42

^{Key Specs:
Materials: Ortholite fabric | Cushioning: EVA foam | Care: Hand wash with soap and water}

4.8

Amazon

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Pros

Good shock absorption
Deep heel cup
Solid motion control

Cons

Break-in period required

A popular choice among people with flat feet, PowerStep's Original Insoles provide outstanding support and shock absorption. With built-in arch support and a deep heel cradle, they offer stability and motion control to help combat overpronation.

We love that the antimicrobial polyester lining prevents bacterial buildup and wicks away moisture, keeping your feet feeling dry and smelling fresh. Reasonably priced and easy to clean, they also feature a unisex design that will accommodate any type of foot. But you may need to break them in before wearing them to work.

Price at time of publication: $40

^{Key Specs:
Materials: EVA foam base, polyester top fabric | Cushioning: EVA foam | Care: Hand wash}

Amazon

View On Amazon View On Zappos View On Walmart

Pros

Good support and shock absorption
Budget-friendly
Lightweight

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. 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 insoles' impact protection. Available in a wide variety of sizes, we like that they’re also made with an antimicrobial material that reduces friction and helps to control odor. However, they aren't designed to fit in low-profile shoes.

Price at time of publication: $25

^{Key Specs:
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. To choose the best pairs for flat feet, we first asked Alex Kor, DPM, MS, a podiatrist, and John Huenink, founder of custom insole company BioMoto, for their expert opinion on which features every supportive pair of insoles for flat feet should have.

Then, we reviewed dozens of insoles from top trusted retailers. We also based our 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. Usually, cushioned insoles are made with gel or foam. Which type of cushioning you need ultimately comes down to fit and personal preference, although it's worth noting that gel insoles may last longer.

If you experience shin splints or walk primarily on pavement, you may need extra cushioning. However, too much cushioning can affect your stability—so you may want to test your insoles out around the house first to make sure they're comfortable.

Care

The best way to care for your insoles depends on the pair. Some are machine-washable, while others should be hand-washed to make them last longer. Make sure to read the care instructions from the manufacturer, which will explain how to get the most out of your insoles.

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 $30. Meanwhile, our top overall pick, Powerstep's Pinnacle Pink Maxx Cushion Insole, was between $38 and $45 when we published this list.

Why Trust Verywell Fit

A certified personal trainer, running coach, gym buff, and fitness writer, Christine Luff, ACE-CPT, spends countless hours researching and testing the latest exercise gear and gadgets. She only recommends products that she can genuinely stand behind and that she believes would be a good investment for her readers.

Additional reporting contributed by Sarah Felbin

With over two decades of dance experience, Sarah Felbin knows how important it is to feel comfortable on your feet. As a health and fitness writer, she's passionate about finding products that are of great value and make life easier.

The 10 Best Insoles for Hiking of 2023