Guide to choosing insoles for running shoes

Are you having problems with your running shoes? Do you have a special foot structure? You should consider getting a custom-made insert in your running shoes to give your feet the best possible support and cushioning.In this guide I will review different types of insoles and what you should pay attention to.

What is an insole?

Normally, an insole acts as a layer in 99% of all running shoes. You can remove the insole. Its purpose is to provide you with comfort and, to a certain extent, support.

Insoles for running shoes come in many sizes, shapes and concentrations of support. Here I can recommend this article about cushioning and stability in running shoes,which, among other things, looks at how good a soft shoe actually is.

How does a post help – do I need it?

Very few people need special inserts. Typically, you get inserts because your foot is very specially built, which gives you pressure and discomfort in your ankles, knees or hips. It is recommended to go to a physiotherapist to find out what your foot structure is. Not all running stores can help you here, as many of them think more about $ than helping. Of course, there are exceptions.

When you stand up, you put a lot of pressure on your joints. If that pressure/stress is not absorbed sufficiently, it can lead to injuries in the ankles, hips or knees. This is especially true for older people because the natural shock absorption is impaired.

An insole can help adjust this cushioning. However, don’t think that a thicker insole is more gentle. It’s a trade-off.

In addition to improved cushioning, some insoles also provide extra support. The support is especially helpful for runners who overpronate. Typically, running shoes for overpronation have an insole that also provides support against pronation.

If you have problems with arch injuries (plantar fasciitis) or heel injuries, an insole can help you give you support where you need it. It relieves your particularly vulnerable areas.

Different types of insoles

There are many ways to calculate the different types of soles. Here is my breakdown:

1. Soles that provide better comfort
2. Soles that provide support
3. Custom-made soles

1. Sole with comfort

This type of sole is typically made of a soft material. The most commonly used is foam or gel. It helps a little with cushioning and shock absorption. Very soft running shoes often have this type, whose primary purpose is to provide a comfortable experience. If you stand up a lot during the day, you should look for this type of sole.

2. Sole with support

Support soles are constructed a little differently. A soft sole will accentuate pronation, which is why support soles are a little harder. There are different hardnesses and thicknesses of this type of sole.

3. Custom-made soles

See further down in the article where I discuss the custom-made soles.

Insole maintenance

Insoles typically last 9 to 12 months. However, this depends heavily on the choice of material and how much and how you use them.

Your soles can get dirty, why cleaning of the sole will be necessary. At least it will extend the shelf life.

Custom-made insoles

Custom-made insoles, also called orthotics, help with specific unique problems that you have. You can talk to your physical therapist about developing and ordering custom-made insoles. You can always tell your physical therapist about any special requests for comfort and support, but listen to what the therapist has to say.

How much does a custom-made sole cost?

The prices of custom-made insoles vary greatly. Typically, it is worth buying a new running shoe that fits you better, but this depends on the biomechanics of your foot. Standard insoles cost between 200 and 400 kroner. However, these are not custom-made, but standard solutions.

If you need special inserts, it is my opinion that you should not compromise on quality. What are you willing to pay to remain injury-free? You should not be afraid to pay +1000 kroner for a pair of special inserts.

Posts are made in very different ways, and therefore the price tag varies greatly.

Do I need a custom-made sole?

It costs a lot of money to have custom insoles made and they don’t always fit all running shoes. With custom inserts, you will often limit your options when it comes to new running shoes.

Conversely, if you have special flaws, it could be luck.