The 8 Best Insoles for Plantar Fasciitis of 2021

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Our Top Picks

Best Overall:

Physix Gear Sport Full Length Orthotic Inserts at Amazon

Wearable with all kinds of shoes, their arch support and heel cup deliver maximum shock absorption for plantar fasciitis relief.

Best Overall Runner-Up:

Dr. Scholl's Plantar Fasciitis at Amazon

Trimmable and featuring high shock absorption technology and a contoured heel cup, the inserts offer ample heel cushioning.

Best Budget:

Sof Sole Plantar Fascia 3/4 Insole at Amazon

Get soothing comfort from the insole’s gel heel cup, which stabilizes the rear foot while the arch stretches the plantar fascia.

Best Budget, Runner-up:

VIVEsole Silicone Gel Heel Cups at Amazon

The budget-friendly pick stays put thanks to the self-adhesive base while its moldable gel material conforms to your foot's shape.

Best for Running:

L.L.Bean Superfeet Green Max Shock Absorption Insoles at L.L.Bean

Working to reduce the risk of plantar fasciitis and prevent rolling, the insoles are ideal for runners with medium-to-high arches.

Best for Dress Shoes:

VIVEsole Plantar Fasciitis Insoles at Amazon

Promising to stay snug and retain its shape, the versatile insoles can be cut to fit your foot size and shoe style.

Best for High-Intensity Workouts:

Powerstep Pinnacle Insole at Amazon

Ideal for HIIT workouts due to the risk of plantar fasciitis, these feature shock-absorbing cushioning to reduce heel stress.

Best for Standing:

Footminders Comfort Orthotic Arch Support Insoles at Amazon

Designed by podiatrists and thinner than most other insoles, it's specifically made for all-day wear and even relieves back pain.

Plantar fasciitis is an issue that results when the thick band of tissue that runs across the bottom of your foot becomes inflamed—causing a stabbing pain near your heel. Pain is often worse in the morning though it can get better throughout the day.

Without proper support or cushioning in your shoes, plantar fasciitis can increase in intensity. The good news is that using specialized insoles can relieve the pain almost immediately while preventing a recurrence.

John Huenink, Founder of insole company BioMoto, encourages finding a pair of custom insoles but acknowledges that not everyone can invest in a specialized product. “Look for an insole that wraps around the heel and that has some structure,” he says. Huenink explains that an over-the-counter insole that prevents the heel from turning to the inside or outside of the foot is ideal.

Here are the best insoles for plantar fasciitis on the market.

Pros

Deep heel cradle for stability
Non-slippage also stops blisters
Fits in all kinds of shoes

Cons

Not super cushioning

These very popular and affordable insoles from Physix Gear are ergonomically designed to give your feet the right amount of support and cushioning. Made with a high-quality, medical-grade EVA foam, they deliver maximum shock absorption to provide relief from plantar fasciitis and reduce muscle fatigue in your legs and feet.

The semi-rigid arch support and heel cup provide additional support and stability, whether you’re running, walking, hiking, or doing other activities. They also have a non-slip heel that holds the insole in place, so you don’t have to worry about it sliding around and causing foot blisters. They’re low-profile enough to fit in all types of shoes, including hiking and work boots, and they allow for plenty of room in the toe box. And with a very reasonable price tag, you can buy multiple pairs to put them in all your frequently-worn shoes.

Materials: EVA foam and PU | Cushioning: Dual-layer

Pros

High shock absorption technology
Can be easily cut for customized fit
Clinically proven relief

Cons

Women's inserts a tad thinner and shorter

From the trusted brand Dr. Scholl’s, these full-length insoles are specially designed for those dealing with plantar fasciitis. Versatile and easy-to-use, these inserts are good for everyday wear or for walking, running, and other activities. They feature Shock Guard technology and a contoured heel cup that provides soothing cushioning and absorbs shock in the heel, the most vulnerable spot for those with plantar fasciitis.

With a reinforced arch, you’ll also get all-day support right where you need it. Available in men’s sizes, these insoles can be easily trimmed to fit your exact foot shape and can be worn in virtually any type of shoe, including sneakers, boots, flats, and heels. The combination of a very effective, reliable product and an affordable price tag make them a smart choice for getting relief from plantar fasciitis.

Materials: Synthetic | Cushioning: Shock-absorbing

Pros

Plantar relief bridge sturdily supports arches
Gel in heels maintain rear of feet
3/4 length fits most shoe types

Cons

Slides in some footwear

These affordable insoles from Sof Sole are proof that you don’t have to spend a fortune for an outstanding plantar fasciitis relief product. You’ll get soothing comfort from the insole’s gel heel cup, which also helps to control and stabilize the rear foot.

The arch helps to support and stretch the plantar fascia, making these insoles a good choice for anyone who spends a lot of time on their feet. Durable and versatile, they work in most athletic and casual shoes, from sneakers to boots.

Materials: Nylon | Cushioning: Gel in the heel

Pros

Soft, moldable gel gently massages heels
Self-adhesive ensures no sliding
Corrects foot posture

Cons

Only for the heel, not the full foot

These silicone ViveSole Plantar Fasciitis Insoles have a self-adhesive base, so they’ll stay put no matter what type of shoes you’re wearing. They’re made of a soft, moldable gel that gently massages your heels right where you need it, and conforms to the shape of your foot.

They also have additional cushioning to absorb impact and reduce soreness, so they’re perfect for when you stand for long stretches. With a very affordable price tag, these effective inserts are ideal if you want to purchase multiple sets and not deal with the hassle of moving inserts among your favorite shoes.

Materials: Latex-free gel | Cushioning: N/A

superfeet green max shock absorption insoles

Pros

Light in weight, heavy in cushioning
Less impact and rolling of feet
Reduces blisters with friction-control top cover

Cons

Slightly too pronounced heel

Runners are especially vulnerable to plantar fasciitis, but wearing the right insoles can help reduce their risk. These Superfeet Green Insoles are designed to provide support, shock absorption, and stability, and are ideal for runners with medium-to-high arches.

They’re made of high-density foam with exceptional cushioning, yet they’re still lightweight and won’t weigh you down. With a wide, deep heel cup, the insoles cradle your heels to prevent your foot from rolling, while also reducing impact.

The biomechanically correct arch provides additional support and comfort. Although they’re a bit stiffer than some other insoles, they work like a charm after wearing for a few hours to break them in.

Materials: Foam | Cushioning: N/A

Pros

Breathable to prevent odors
Podiatrist-designed insoles
Retain their shape

Cons

Very wide width

These versatile insoles from ViveSole can be cut to fit your foot size and shoe style, so they’re perfect for dress shoes. Although they're very lightweight, they have enough padding and support to absorb impact and re-distribute pressure around the foot.

These durable, full-length insoles won’t slip or slide, and they’ll retain their shape, even with extended wear. Additionally, they’re lined with a breathable, anti-bacterial material that eliminates odors.

Materials: Foam | Cushioning: Additional at the heel and forefoot

Pros

Durable EVA foam base gently cushions
Semi-firm yet flexible enough for good support
Versatile for all foot arch types

Cons

Heel base can protrude after some time

Anyone who runs or does other high-intensity or high-impact activities are especially prone to plantar fasciitis, since their heels take a lot of impact.

The Powerstep Pinnacle Shoe Insoles are designed with shock-absorbing cushioning in the heel to reduce the stress on that area. They also feature a firm yet flexible shell that helps support and stabilize your arches. With an antimicrobial outer fabric, they’ll stay odor-free and dry, reducing your risk of foot blisters.

Materials: EVA foam | Cushioning: Maximum

Pros

Designed by podiatrists
Can alleviate back pain
Fit for long walking and standing periods

Cons

Thinner material than other insoles
Very firm

If you spend a lot of time on your feet, the pain from plantar fasciitis can sometimes be excruciating. With exceptional support and cushioning, Footminders Insoles are designed for all-day wear and can give you the relief you need.

They’re made of a medium-density EVA foam, with additional shock-absorbing cushion in the heel. A deep heel cup allows your foot to be supported and well-protected. Available in a variety of men’s and women’s sizes, they’re versatile enough to be worn in many types of athletic and work shoes.

Materials: Durapontex | Cushioning: Dual-layer

Final Verdict

Affordable and compatible with all kinds of shoes, the Physix Gear Sport Orthotic Inserts (view at Amazon) delivers maximum shock absorption while the deep heel cradle offers stability no matter your activity.

If managing plantar fasciitis is your main concern, Dr. Scholl’s Plantar Fasciitis Orthotics (view at Amazon) work for a variety of activities with its Shock Guard technology, reinforced arch, and trimmable insoles.

What to Look for in Insoles for Plantar Fasciitis

Type

There are a variety of insoles on the market, but it’s necessary to differentiate between inserts, insoles, and orthotics before identifying what option is best for your needs. “Inserts and insoles are interchangeable terms to describe over-the-counter devices, while orthotics are custom-molded by a podiatrist,” says Dr. Jacqueline Sutera, DPM, and Podiatrist at City Podiatry in New York City.

“I usually recommend an over-the-counter option at first, then progress to a custom option if symptoms persist or worsen,” says Sutera.

Insole Volume

When choosing an insole for plantar fasciitis, volume is one of the most important characteristics to note. There are high, medium, and low volume insoles, and each option is designed for a specific arch level and activity.

Low-volume is good for people who have low arches and those wearing cycling shoes, ski skate boots, and in-line skate boots. High-volume insoles are best suited for use in hiking boots, running shoes, or ski boots, and they work well for people with a high arch. If you’re in need of a day-to-day insole for your walking shoes or casual shoes, a medium-volume insole is a good choice.

Size

Most inserts correlate with your shoe size and plenty of them can be trimmed to fit your specific shoe style. While trimming allows for some customization, you want to find one close to your shoe size so you don’t have to trim away too much of the insole—taking away from the support and structure of the insole.

If you’ve narrowed down your options to a couple of insoles for plantar fasciitis, you can stand on the insole outside of the shoe to see if you feel an adequate amount of support. Afterward, you can move it to your shoe to ensure you feel stable and that the insole takes up the right amount of space in your shoe.

Material

Insoles provide support with multiple types of materials. The most common options include foam insoles, memory foam insoles, gel insoles, air-cushioned insoles, and leather insoles.

Foam insoles are the most common and most budget-friendly, and since foam is naturally shock-absorbing, it provides the user with a comfortable and supportive step. Gel insoles provide a decent amount of support in the balls of your feet, but they don’t mold as well to your feet as memory foam options. If you’re looking for durability and strong arch support, leather insoles are a good choice.

Price

“In my opinion, there are some really good and reasonably priced insoles available,” explains Sutera. Over-the-counter options will generally be less expensive than custom orthotics, but if you require multiple insoles for a variety of shoes, it may be a good idea to opt for an affordable option before consulting a podiatrist for a higher-end pair.

FAQs

Can insoles help plantar fasciitis?

Insoles can provide appropriate support and help to alleviate the strain of the plantar fascia, easing the pain of plantar fasciitis. However, it’s important that you get the right type and size insole for your foot to optimize the benefits. Talk to your podiatrist or physical therapist about the right insoles for you.

Can shoes cause plantar fasciitis?

Yes, wearing shoes with very little or no support or cushioning is a contributing factor to plantar fasciitis. This is especially true for those with flat feet who are at a higher risk for the condition.

Is walking bad for plantar fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is an overuse injury that’s caused by repetitive strain of the plantar fascia, which could be from walking or running, according to William D. Spielfogel, DPM, a podiatrist in New York, NY and foot and ankle expert for The Good Feet Store. So continuing to walk a lot could make the condition worse, especially if you’re not taking any steps to rehab it.

What happens if you ignore plantar fasciitis?

Hoping that plantar fasciitis will just go away on its own will most likely lead to more pain and a longer recovery time. “The longer treatment is delayed the more difficult it is to resolve,” says Dr. Spielfogel. “Conservative treatment consisting of arch supports, stretching, and anti-inflammatory medication started early on can alleviate the pain. Sometimes more aggressive treatment such as steroid injections and possible surgery may be needed.”

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