Why Do You Need Running Insoles?

What are Running Shoe Inserts/Insoles/orthotics?

Running shoe insoles, orthotics or inserts are an extra form of support and cushioning for your running shoe.

When you buy a new pair of running shoes, they come with a sock liner, which is the closest thing to the foot. As such, it needs to provide the right support to help ensure you won't get injured from a bad gait ("gait">>>the way you walk).

The goal here is to help cradle the heel and the arch while you run to help absorb shock. In the process, the insole may also help correct issues in your stride.

The difference between an insert and the sock liner that comes with the shoe is that the insert is designed to address certain issues with your foot which will allow you to run more efficiently.

Do You Really Need Running Insoles?

In general, a person needs running insoles if they have:

1. Flat feet

2. Plantar fasciitis

3. Overpronation

4. Chronic pain in the feet or lower body

Insoles are most commonly used for overpronation, a type of bad running form wherein your ankle turns too far inward when your foot hits the ground.

INSOLES ARE FOR EVERYONE (YES!!)

There is a common misconception about custom shoe insoles, yes!, they are RECOMMENDED for people having flat feet, overpronation, plantar fasciitis and lower body pain,

BUT THE TRUTH IS "IT'S FOR EVERYONE".

Insoles function as a stabilizing force to support your body and help counteract all the wear and tear your feet go through every day. Plus, they’re super comfy.

I strongly recommend using custom running insoles

because........

Your Shoes Actually Don’t Come with Insoles

Those aren’t insoles in your shoes, they’re sockliners. They don’t provide any support, they’re just there to help keep your feet in place inside your shoes. Insoles, especially custom-molded insoles, are made to support your specific foot. If you have a high arch, for example, custom insoles will be molded to your foot to support that arch. Sockliners can’t do that.

Types of Shoe Insoles:

1. Sport insoles:

Sports insoles are made using elastic rubber or other flexible material. They feature double shock absorbers to take the shock. They also come with a perspiration-absorbing system. If you are not battling any orthopedic condition and want an insole to aid your running performance, you must buy sports insoles.

2.Dynamic insoles:

These insoles are made using dynamic polymers. They are fabricated with the help of a unique layering technique for every action and particular sport.

3.Carbon insoles:

These insoles are made using carbon fibers. These insoles help in the treatment of flat feet, arch collapse, and heel spurs.

4.Biomechanical insoles:

Biomechanical insoles feature a rigid or semi-rigid base made using aluminum or plastic, graphite, and cork. The upper is covered with a layer of leather.

5.Silicone insoles:

These insoles are made using silicone. They are not made corresponding to the different foot patterns. Instead, they are inserted in the soles as a single unit.

As silicon has amazing shock absorbing capability, they are very effective during running.

6.Cork insoles

People with diabetes use cork insoles. They help in absorbing perspiration.