Cushion Insoles

Often when we think of adding comfort we think of adding plush padding or cushion. Who isn't comfortable in a big, fluffy bed? But cushion is not the only answer to solving foot pain or discomfort. Read more below to find out if cushion insoles are the right choice for you.

How do cushioned insoles help your feet?

A study 1 has shown that cushioning made from certain materials can help mitigate the negative effects of repeated impact from activities like prolonged walking. Cushioned insoles range in quality and amount of cushion so it pays off to do some research before investing in a pair for your shoes.

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How to pick the best cushioned insole?

Insoles can be made of different types of materials such as gel, memory foam, or other flexible foams. They can also target specific uses such as insoles for back pain or work boot insoles. The first thing to identify is what outcome you are hoping for. You may want comfort, pain relief, alignment help, or all three. Some insoles found in drug stores may be cheaper but only offer some padding whereas other insoles, such as Protalus insoles, will include patented alignment technology to target the root causes of discomfort.

For Adding Cushion We Recommend:

The T-Series offers the greatest degree of cushion and arch support, can help redistribute pressure, and allow for better overall alignment. It is ideal for daily wear in regular volume shoes such as walking shoes, athletic trainers, and work boots. The T-Series incorporates Protalus's patented alignment technology to provide the structure and comfort you need.

T-100 Elite

Designed for casual or slip-on shoes with a removable insole.

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T-75

Designed for casual or slip-on shoes with a non-removable insole.

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What about gel or memory foam insoles?

While one study 2 did show that gel insoles can reduce foot pressures, another study 3 concluded that they did not show significant positive outcomes for conditions such as plantar fasciitis. There is also evidence 4 that memory foam insoles provide cushion but are not suited for activities like running.

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Are cushioned insoles good for running?

As stated above, it depends on the material. While cushion-only insoles may reduce some of the impact pressure of running, they are unlikely to correct issues like overpronation or plantar fasciitis unless they also contain some technology to add arch support or correct mislignment.

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What are the best insoles for standing all day?

Many people seek cushioned insoles for standing all day because they believe that cushioning alone will relieve their discomfort. While some cushioned insoles redistribute the pressure on feet, not all provide enough support to get to the root of discomfort. Similar to choosing a mattress, the one with the most padding does not always offer the best support. It is the internal structure of the product that matters. Just because an insole is squishy, it doesn't guarantee relief. That is why Protalus insoles have arch support, cushioning, and patented alignment technology working together to support all-day wear.

1. Shabat, S., Gefen, T., Nyska, M., Folman, Y., & Gepstein, R. (2005). The effect of insoles on the incidence and severity of low back pain among workers whose job involves long-distance walking. European Spine Journal, 14(6), 546-550. doi:10.1007/s00586-004-0824-z

2. Kim, E., Cho, H., Jung, T., Kim, S., & Chung, J. (2010). The Biomechanical Comparison of Functional Insoles. IFMBE Proceedings 6th World Congress of Biomechanics (WCB 2010). August 1-6, 2010 Singapore, 313-316. doi:10.1007/978-3-642-14515-5_81

3. Quesada, P., & Sawyer, F. (1995). Assessment of efficacy of silicone gel-filled shoe insoles for plantar pressure relief. Gait & Posture, 3(2), 98. doi:10.1016/0966-6362(95)93489-y

4. Ruano, C., Powell, D., Chalambaga, E. T., & Renshaw, D. (2009). The Effects of Tempur Insoles on Ground Reaction Forces and Loading Rates in Running. International journal of exercise science, 2(3), 186–190.

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