If you are a cook, a nursing assistant, or a restaurant host, it is highly likely you spend most of your day standing. And your job can be putting a lot of strain on your feet and knees. Standing too much is not only tiring; it can also be harmful to your health. It can cause sore feet, lower back pain, swelling of the legs, and general muscular fatigue, among other health issues.
That’s why it is highly recommended that you use a suitable shoe insert when at work. When you stand most of the day, your feet will have to support all your body weight. Feet problems like fallen arches may soon follow especially when that body weight is not well distributed. This usually occurs when you use insoles that are poorly designed and manufactured.
The best shoe inserts should not only provide good cushion to your foot. You’ll want an insole that can be placed into any type of shoe, whether it is an athletic, dress, or casual type of footwear. Moreover, the best insoles are those that can keep your feet dry and cool and, in the process, minimize the development of unwanted odors.
Here are the 15 best shoe inserts for standing all day:
Superfeet Green Insoles
Superfeet Worldwide was founded in 1977. It is known to be the first-ever maker of professional-grade insoles that can be purchased over the counter.
Superfeet’s Green Insoles are designed to promote comfort and relieve pain in the heel and feet. Made of environment-friendly materials, it has a high-density foam layer that supports and cushions the feet especially when standing all day. The high-profile shape stabilizes the foot and reduce stress on the ankles and knees. The deep heel cup, meanwhile, offers superior support and natural shock absorption.
This is also one of the most pocket-friendly insoles that you can find on the market today.
You may also be interested in some of the best shoes for walking & standing all day. Check out our list of the best ones on the maret.
Samurai Orthotics Insoles
Samurai Insoles are produced and distributed by the New Jersey-based Samurai Wellness LLC. The insoles were designed by engineers, combining the benefits of custom orthotics and arch support insoles.
These insoles are aimed at addressing the root causes of tired feet. It has a springy molded inner core that enables it to provide enough support to the feet. It is also lightweight and won’t make walking harder for you.
Moreover, these insoles come with a 60-day money-back guarantee. You can send them back to the manufacturer within 60 days upon purchase if you feel that it isn’t right for you. And you will get your money back. The manufacturer even pays for the shipping.
Sof Sole Athletic Insoles
Sof Sole was established in 1991. In nearly three decades, it has grown into one of the largest makers of athletic footwear accessories. Aside from insoles, it also designs and produces socks and shoe care products.
The Athletic Insole has cushioning that can keep you comfortable even when standing for prolonged periods. It has gel pads in the forefoot and heel areas to cushion those high impact areas.
It is also designed to keep your feet cool and dry all day long. It has a topical moisture management treatment as well as antibacterial foam to do so. This insole comes with a one-year warranty.
Powerstep Original Orthotics
Powerstep is a top brand of insoles that not only cushion the feet but also relieve foot pain. Its original Orthotics insoles enhance comfort and support in shoes. It is not only recommended for people who stand all day but also athletes, runners, and even kids.
This insole comes with a firm and flexible support shell for superior stability, along with a heel cradle and integrated arch-support. Its thin and low-profile design makes it versatile enough to be used in most shoes, whether it is for casual or athletic use. Your feet should also remain dry and cool with this insole as it is made from anti-microbial fabric.
Timberland PRO
Timberland PRO is the line of premium and durable boots from Timberland, a leading maker of premium footwear. The brand was established in 1999.
This insole has a patterned cone design with anti-fatigue technology, so you can bet that your feet won’t feel tired when you use this insert.
It is made from an open-cell foam which is moisture-wicking and breathable. The contoured design supports key pressure points and areas, like the ball of the foot and the heel. It also has anti-microbial protection to keep feet dry and odor-free.
Dr. Scholl’s Massaging Advanced Insole
One of the pioneering brands in the orthopedic foot care industry is Dr. Scholl’s. It was founded in 1906 in Chicago by Dr. William Scholl.
This insole was specially designed for people who stand all day as well as those who work on hard surfaces. It is built with massaging gel technology and superior cushioning. With its shock-absorbing properties, the insoles should keep you comfortable and energized at work.
This insole has also been proven to be effective in allowing its users to move more. One recent clinical study proved that participants were able to move over than 10% more when they placed these massaging gel insoles inside their shoes.
While this is not the least expensive on this list, this insole is a good choice if you’re after quality. Expect it to last for a year or so.
Spenco Polysorb Athletic Cushioning Shoe Insoles
Spenco Footwear is a reputable maker of shoes, sandals, slippers, and yes, insoles. It is based in Waco, Texas.
These cushioning shoe insoles may be marketed towards athletes and weekend warriors, but it can also be a good choice for people like you who stand all day. It is made from nylon material with antimicrobial properties to keep your feet dry and odor-free. It can also prevent blisters.
It fits into any shoe. You simply have to remove the old insert and place it on top of the shoe. You may also cut it to match the size of your footwear.
You should feel comfortable even if you have been standing for hours because the insole has a four-way stretch design. This prevents the feet from getting strained. It is ideal for people with flat feet and low arches with its small raised area and cushiony feel or design.
Moreover, the insole is quite affordable. In short, you will definitely get your money’s worth with these athletic cushioning shoe insoles.
VIVEsole Orthotist Inserts
VIVEsole is one of the many brands under the Vive Health Group. Its Orthotic Inserts are one of the best shoe inserts for people who stand all day. It is made of shock-absorbing foam and a firm and durable composite material that supports the natural shape of the feet. It is designed to relieve foot pain due to various conditions like high arches, flat feet, and plantar fasciitis.
This insole is designed by expert podiatrists to provide impeccable foot support. There is enough foam padding on the heel and forefoot, absorbing the impact of every step and in the process, relieving pressure points.
It can be worn in most shoes, whether it is a casual, athletic, or casual type. You can trim it for a customized fit. The insoles are lined with soft material to prevent odors. It can also retain its shape even after months of use. You can also wash the insoles to keep them fresh.
Dycarfell Work Gel Insole
Dycarfell is a Chinese footwear brand that also designs and manufacture insoles. Its Work Insole is made of gel material for superior cushioning. This helps reduce the impact of standing for hours on the joints and muscles. It is also a good pick for individuals who are into athletic activities.
The insole’s heel is also lined with gel to effectively support the arch of the foot. Aside from protecting the heel, it is designed to correct heel positioning while reducing the pressure on the keen and the back.
The size of the insole can be cut and adjusted according to the size of your feet. You can cut it to suit whatever shoes you have, whether it is a walking boot or lace-up shoes.
New Balance Insoles 3030
New Balance is a brand that is mostly associated with running shoes, but this Massachusetts-based firm also produces quality footwear accessories, including shoe inserts. The Insoles 3030 are a good example.
This full-length insole features cushioned layers to relieve foot pain and minimize friction and. in the process, prevent blisters. It is made of moldable memory foam for extra comfort. There is also metatarsal support to prevent and relieve pain and discomfort in the forefoot.
Your feet should remain dry and cool as the insole has custom-made airflow channels integrated into the bottom. This helps in removing warm air and pulling in cool air. Meanwhile, the insole has a deep heel cup for natural padding and cushion in the heels.
Birkenstock Blue Footbed Casual
German brand Birkenstock is widely known for its stylish and comfortable sandals. But do you know that it also designs and produces shoe inserts and footbeds that conform to the shape of their wearers’ feet?
The Birkenstock Blue Footbed casual is one of the more comfortable arch supports you can find on the market. It is made of soft and supportive material. It can also fit into most shoes, from athletic to dress to casual types.
It has highly contoured arch supports that keep the entire foot comfortable and relaxed even after hours of standing. It supports the metatarsal, medial, and lateral arches. Its deep heel cup is also designed to increase the level of support to the arch by stabilizing the heel and minimizing excessive heel motion. But the contours are not intrusive or uncomfortable. Suffice it to say, breaking in of the shoe inserts should not take long.
These shoe inserts can also prevent unwanted odors from developing thanks to its silk liner designed to absorb moisture. Meanwhile, its underside provides good shock absorption and helps minimize foot fatigue.
Physix Gear Sport Full-Length Orthotic Inserts
If you desire insoles with superior shock absorption, then these inserts from Physix Gear should be on your shortlist. Physix Gear is a maker of affordable but high-quality sports products, including compression gear, massage gear, socks, and shoe inserts.
These Full-Length Orthotic Insoles are made of foam and enhanced with soft fabric. The top layer has anti-microbial properties and should minimize the growth of bacteria and foul odors. The heel, meanwhile, is deep and offers superior stability.
The insoles are ideal for people who stand and walk a lot with its non-slip structure. The shock-absorbing capability of the insoles are impressive and can relieve different foot conditions like plantar fasciitis.
Envelop Gel Insoles
Envelop is another brand under the Vive Health group. One thing you’ll appreciate about it is that it has affordable yet high-quality products. Take this item, for example. It is well-designed and constructed despite being low-cost. It is one proof that you don’t need to spend a lot for a pain-relieving and comfortable shoe insert.
The Envelop Gel Insole has a honeycomb design intended to absorb the impact of each step on the heel and forefoot. It can also reduce the strain on the feet brought about by hours of standing. It is ergonomically designed to contour to the shape of the foot and provide outstanding support for any foot regardless of its arch type.
Vive Health offers a 60-day money-back guarantee on this insole. This is a shoe insert that you should get if you don’t want to spend a significant amount but do want relief from foot soreness.
Miscly Gel Comfort Insoles
Miscly manufactures and distributes footwear accessories ranging from shoelaces to foot insoles. Its Gel Comfort Insoles are designed for hours of walking and standing. These are premium-level insoles with generous padding. You can trim the insoles to find the right fit for your feet. It can fit men’s shoes sizes from 8 to 13, and for women, from 9.5 to 14.5.
This insole has a honeycomb design for impact absorption. It also has arch support and deep heel cup to minimize fatigue. A polyester top layer, meanwhile, should ensure you won’t slip while on these insoles.
The insoles are also made of anti-bacterial material. There are sufficient ventilation holes to keep your feet cool and dry all day long. You can use these insoles in casual shoes, boots, and hiking shoes.
DJMed Orthotic Shoe Insoles
Finally, the DJMed Orthotic Shoe Insoles are designed to be comfortable and relieve foot pain. These are medical-grade shoe insoles that offer flexible and firm support to address arch problems and other foot conditions.
Lightweight with an ergonomic heel cradle, this insole easily contours to the natural shape of the heel for superior stability. It can also control sideways twisting for superior security and stability while correcting balance foot pressure.
Your feet should remain dry and cool while using these inserts. Its breathable base design allows air to circulate and keep the feet dry and odor-free. It also minimizes friction to prevent blisters. In short, this is an excellent pick if you are looking for a medical-grade shoe insert to keep your feet comfortable all day long.