We Asked Podiatrists What Insoles They Recommended for Flat Feet — Here’s What They Said

With medical-grade, ultra-firm support, Tread Labs offers some of the best insole options for flat feet. They have precision fit arch support in four different heights plus a deep heel cup, all of which help to stabilize the feet, keep them in a neutral position, and absorb shock. I tested this pair out myself and found it to be exceptionally comfortable. The insoles were slim and supportive, and I quickly forgot I was wearing them. I especially appreciated how the deep heel cup cradled the back of my feet.

While I don’t have any pain to speak of from my flat feet, I noticed a definite difference in comfort level while wearing these insoles.

The insoles have the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA) seal of approval, and unlike many other brands that can fall apart in months or weeks, they’re extremely durable. The brand will send you a new pair if the insoles crack or lose shape. They also have a 90-day fit guarantee — if your feet don’t like them, you can get a new pair or a refund. They also cost a pretty penny at $75, but your health is worth it. Just note that this pair is on the firm side.

If you don’t want to break the bank, Walkomfy Insoles are just $20 or less, but still check off the boxes Fuchs advises looking for in insoles for flat feet: Great arch support, shock absorption, and shoe compatibility. The deep heel cup made from foam helps absorb impact, while excellent arch support reinforced with cork stabilizes the foot. They’re also trimmable so that you can fit them into various shoes.

I tried this pair myself and found it offered ample cushioning and support for the price, especially in the arch area. The insoles felt more noticeable than competitors, though. The cushioning is less smoothly integrated into the rest of the insoles, making them slightly annoying and uncomfortable. However, I got used to it after a few days of wear.

You’ll need solid support if you plan on hitting the trail regularly with fallen arches. Spenco’s Total Support Max Insoles are designed to provide exactly that. From excellent arch support to a heel plug made to offer extra shock absorption to a design that helps you shift your weight to your toes as you move, the insoles will keep your feet moving with a healthy, aligned gait for $45.

I tested this pair out on several long beachside trails and found they offered just the right amount of support while also being smooth and undetectable. They had cushioning and shock protection in all the places my feet felt impact the most. Support on the inner part of the foot was particularly solid and structured, which helps correct overpronation, a common issue among flat footers.

This is like getting a prescription — but for your ideal shoes. Get the perfect pair of Dr. Scholl’s Custom Fit Insoles for $50 or less by taking an online quiz or heading to a digital kiosk for a foot scan. You’ll receive a rec for one out of 38 styles based on your arch level, activity level, any pain or pressure points you suffer with, weight, and more. One reviewer remarked that these insoles were the only ones that ever worked for them, while another said they lasted for ten years. The insoles are designed to help with lower back pain, achy feet, knee pain, heels, and plantar fasciitis. The brand also offers a 90-day money-back guarantee if you’re unhappy with your purchase. But keep in mind that while this pair offers a more customized fit than most competitors, it’s still not as good as getting custom orthotics.

Dress shoes like loafers and flats are often short on support. The trick to wearing insoles with dress shoes is getting a low-profile pair that fits snugly into shoes without taking up a lot of room. This $55 pair from Superfeet is black with a discreet minimalist design, and they fit perfectly into my favorite pair of slim dress sneakers, which are about the same size as many dress shoes. The result was a transformed pair of kicks I could wear comfortably on both long walks and dinner outings. The slim-fit design prevented crowded toes, and I hardly felt or noticed I was wearing an insole. I was thrilled with this upgrade.

Made from high-density foam, they provided firm support throughout my feet, with arch support and a heel cradle to absorb shock. Despite being on the slimmer side, they’ve received an American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA) seal of approval. They can be worn with shoes that don’t have removable insoles, so don’t worry about fitting them with your favorite flats. Just note that these insoles won’t be as cushioned as other styles, but that’s to be expected for a pair designed for everyday wear.