I always encourage my fellow hikers to use professional insoles for their hiking boots and this was a game changer for my feet.
Wearing the right insoles can significantly enhance the hiking experience by providing excellent arch support, cushioning, and shock absorption.
After conducting extensive research and testing arch support inserts and various insoles for hiking boots, I have compiled a list of the best options available on the market.
Through my experience and expertise in this field, I have carefully selected these insoles based on their comfort, durability, and support.
Let’s take a closer look at each of these top-performing insoles that are sure to enhance your hiking experience.
Our Top Pick for the Best Hiking Insole
Superfeet Trailblazer Comfort Insoles
We believe Superfeet Trailblazer are the best insoles for hiking that you can buy. We’ve tested it for different types of trails are they performed really well, successfully removing some of my foot pain and increasing the shock absorption.
Not only us, the customers who have used it recommend it as well. Hear it directly from them:
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1. Superfeet Trailblazer Comfort Insoles
Superfeet Trailblazer is one of the best insoles for hiking on the market. These hiking boot inserts are specifically designed for any arch height and are available in both men’s and women’s sizes.
Through extensive testing, I found that these insoles deliver exceptional arch support and heel cushioning, which significantly reduced foot fatigue and pain during long hikes.
The deep heel cup and sturdy arch support provide stability and prevent foot roll, which is particularly important during challenging terrains.
They’re designed with deep heel cups to prevent heel slip and if you’re on uneven ground, it’ll prevent your toes from hitting the front of your boot or shoe.
One of the standout features of these insoles is their durability. After using them on multiple hikes, the insoles maintained their shape and support, which speaks to the quality of their high-density foam construction.
These are highly rated in nearly every insole review you can find on the internet, so you can rest assured that these insoles will do what you want them to, and that is to protect your feet from any irritation or pain.
Size: 2.5-13 Men / 4.5-14 Women
Brand: Superfeet
Material: Carbon Fiber
Color: Pine
2. Soul Insole Shoe Bubble Orthotic Insole
Another new product on the market is the Shoe Bubble by Soul Insole. This transparent orthotic insole is made of memory gel and it comes in three different sizes.
This makes a relaxed, delicate feeling at the heels, legs, arches, ankles, and lower back! It helps with Plantar Fasciitis, Heel Pain, Fat Pad Atrophy, Morton’s Neuroma, Metatarsalgia, Over-Pronation, and other foot issues!
It also has the advantage of fitting any shoe size without the need of trimming the edge for a better fit.
It is compatible with most shoe types, casual sneakers, sports shoes, hiking sandals, or elegant heels!
Size: Small, Medium, Large
Brand: Soul Insole
Material: Gel
Color: Transparent (Thicker Support), Black (Thinner support)
3. WALK-HERO Comfort and Support Unisex Memory Insoles
One of the best arch support for those with flat feet would be the WALK-HERO insoles, which you can find both on Amazon and their website.
Having used these orthotic inserts, I can attest to their effectiveness in providing relief from foot pain while walking.
The deep heel cup and high arch support offer excellent cushioning and stability, even for individuals who land heavily on their feet.
These walking insoles are perfect for both everyday use and for hiking. This is because they’re made with premium materials, so you can be sure they’re shock absorbent and can ensure your feet stay cool all day long.
One of the most significant advantages of the WALK-HERO insoles is their versatility. They are suitable for use in a wide range of shoes, including running shoes, work boots, and casual shoes.
Additionally, you can check our guide for flat feet hiking footwear that provide great arch support.
Size: Men’s 6 – 6 1/2 | Women’s 8 – 8 1/2
Brand: WALK·HERO
Material: Ethylene Vinyl Acetate
Color: Blue
4. PowerStep Pinnacle Wool Insoles
Don’t be fooled by the wool in these insoles, they can be worn in even the hottest weather. If your feet have high arches, you can be sure that they’ll be supported by these insoles.
Based on our findings, it is highly likely that these arch support insoles are effective in preventing foot pain. They are crafted using shock-absorbing materials, which ensures that your feet remain comfortable even after hiking for extended periods in hot weather.
For those who are hesitant about wool, it’s essential to note that these insoles have moisture-wicking properties. This means that even if you sweat, the wool on the insoles will keep your feet cool and as dry as possible, even after a long day outdoors.
Size: Men’s 4 – 15 | Women’s 6 – 12
Brand: PowerStep
Material: 100% Polyester
Color: Gray
5. RooRuns Plantar Fasciitis ¾ Length Insoles
Having used these ¾ length insoles, I found them to be ideal for individuals who experience heel pain more than arch pain. Unlike most insoles that cover the entire shoe, these insoles are specifically designed to target heel pain.
With a deep heel cup and high arch support, you can guarantee that the pain you feel in your heel will be greatly reduced, even as you climb over uneven terrain, or if you’re just walking about. Its orthotic design helps to prevent your heel from slipping.
In fact these RooRuns Insoles provide a great alternative for not having a hiking shoe designed for plantar fasciitis.
The durable construction, ¾ length design, and moisture-wicking properties make these insoles a worthwhile investment for anyone seeking relief from heel pain.
Size: Men: 5-11, Women: 6-12
Brand: RooRuns
Material: Ethylene Vinyl Acetate
Color: Purple
6. EASYFEET Premium Anti-Fatigue Shoe Insoles
These hiking insoles are some of the best all-around insoles, but are even better for everyday use, especially if you’re on your feet all day.
Being some of the best insoles for hiking with plantar fasciitis, The EASYFEET arch support insoles will guarantee your feet won’t feel that much pain at the end of the day.
The materials used in these insoles consist of a combination of gel, cushion, and hard TPU materials.
Thanks to the memory foam technology incorporated into their design, these insoles offer optimal comfort and support, making them an excellent choice for individuals seeking high-quality hiking boot insoles.
Size: Men 4.5-14.5, Women 5.5-15.5)
Brand: EASYFEET
Material: TPE,PU foam, PU gel heel and metatarsal pads, Velvet
Color: Black
7. The Original Samurai Insoles
You’ve probably heard of these insoles before and with good reason. They’re not only designed for comfort and extra support they’ll also help with any symptoms of plantar fasciitis.
If you are suffering from plantar fasciitis, this could be your best bet in combination with a pair of hiking boots for plantar fasciitis.
The insoles are designed to adapt to the unique shape of each individual’s arch, providing a customized level of support and cushioning.
Since they’ve been designed by podiatrists, their orthotic properties will help with shock absorption and whatever pain your foot is in, whether it’s a heel, arch, or simply overall pain.
The materials the footbeds are made from also provide memory foam technology, so you can be sure they won’t wear out easily.
They come in 13 different sizes which makes them fit any shoe size and type – be it your normal sports shoes, hiking shoes or even hiking boots for wide feet. There’s no cutting, trimming, stuffing, or jamming Samurai Insoles into your shoes for a perfect fit of your arch AND total foot length.
Size: Men’s 4 – 16.5 | Women’s 6 – 18.5
Brand: Samurai Insoles
Color: Red
8. Tread Labs Ramble Comfort Insoles
Not many insoles out there can boast different height sizes, but these can. They are perfect for those with any type of arch height, which you can choose, so if you have very high arches, you don’t have to worry, these comfort insoles will be perfect for you.
The availability of these insoles in a range of men’s and women’s shoe sizes ensures that finding the perfect fit is not a concern.
We found these insoles are designed for durability, making them suitable for extended use during long hikes and walks. Their two-part design, which includes a singular arch support and top insole layer, provides optimal comfort and support throughout use.
Size: Men’s 4-13.5, Women’s 5-14.5
Brand: Tread Labs
Material: Polypropylene, Polyurethane Foam
Color: Green
9. SuperFeet ORANGE High Arch Support Insoles
Having used these hiking shoes’ insoles, I highly recommend them as a perfect hiking gift for long-distance runners. The inclusion of a forefoot cushion provides exceptional shock absorption, making each stride feel comfortable and effortless, even during extended use.
Additionally, you’ll notice that the insole’s heel is strengthened with a stability cap, meaning that the foam layer won’t lose its shape.
Even the deep heel cup will help support your feet during any high-intensity and long-distance activities and your run won’t be impacted by any heel pain, making them probably the best running insoles for hiking.
Nor will you be affected by any arch pain, as the maximum support in the insole will help reduce stress in your feet, ankles, and knees. Additionally, they do a great job when it comes to shock absorption and heel support.
After using these insoles and testing them extensively, I can confidently say that the AEROSPRING Dual Comfort foam used in their construction provides optimal breathability, ensuring that your feet stay comfortable and dry even during prolonged use.
Size: Men’s 5.5-17, Women’s 6.5-14
Brand: Superfeet
Color: Orange
Why Do You Need Insoles When Hiking?
While hiking shoes and trainers are highly recommended when hiking, they can still cause a lot of problems for your feet, not only because they aren’t completely shock absorbent, but if they’re new boots, and you haven’t broken them in, you’re bound to get sore feet in no time.
So, by using hiking insoles in your shoes, your feet can get the maximum support they need, as you climb those mountains and hiking trails.
Of course, that’s not the only reason why you should wear insoles when hiking. By adding them to your footwear, you’ll find that the best insoles for hiking will help with issues like collapsed arches or plantar fasciitis.
By providing support and comfort to your foot, it’ll prevent the inflammation of the tissue that causes plantar fasciitis, as you’re hiking.
So, finding the best hiking boot insoles will help ensure your feet remain as healthy as they can be, for those long and arduous walks.
See also:
- Best Water Shoes for Hiking and River Adventures
- Quality Minimalist Hiking Boots and Shoes
- Comparison of the Best Hiking Boots
How Do Hiking Insoles Work?
While good hiking trainers and boots might be able to handle the hard exertion of a hike or climb, they are still the first point of contact with the ground, so whatever cushion or support your shoes have, might not be enough to absorb the shock from every step you take.
Most shoe or boot designs come with “standard” insoles, which means they’re either too firm or they don’t provide enough support for the arch of your feet.
That’s why using the best footbeds for your feet can help. They provide that extra cushion in your step, so your feet and legs don’t feel as much pain as they will, if you don’t use insoles.
You’ll also find that the best hiking insoles will also provide stability for your feet, inside your shoe.
Although, most of the time, a shoe “fits” a foot, over time the materials of the shoe will wear out, and you’ll find more space in your shoe for your heel to move around and “slip”, which can cause blisters.
That’s where wearing hiking footbeds will help. It’ll provide more support and stability for your foot so that the materials of your boots cause less irritation.
Types Of Insoles
There are as many different types of insoles as there are feet. After all, no one foot is the same, and you’ll find that people suffer from different types of problems that no insole can fix.
For example, if you have flat feet, there are many types of hiking insoles for flat feet. If you have high arches then you should go for high arches insoles.
Always do your research, and make sure you know what type of foot you have, so you can make the right decision in buying the best insoles for your feet.
What To Consider When Buying Hiking Insoles
When you’re looking at buying shoe inserts and hiking insoles, remember to look for the right kind of insole for you.
Consult a specialist first, about the type of foot you have, and make sure they’re in the best condition to go for a long hike or climb. Once you know what type of feet you have, then you can start looking into buying the best insoles for you.
Remember, every person’s foot is different and has different needs, so when you consider the multitude of options out there, think about what matters most to you.
If you’re looking to prevent the symptoms of plantar fasciitis, then look for the best arch support insoles, to protect that area of tissue.
If you have high arches, then look for high arch insoles, to support your arches. There are many different types out there, so be sure you do your research before you make that all-important purchase.
Now that you’ve learned more about them, let’s see what are the best hiking boot insoles.
Hiking Insoles FAQs
Do insoles help with hiking?
Insoles during hiking can help increase stability while also providing support. They absorb the shock that comes from walking or running, therefore reducing the stress put on your feet, ankles, and arches.
They also help with spinal support and minimize the amount of energy you need to exert.
Should hiking shoes have arch support?
Arch support is important for any shoe you plan on going long distances with. The ideal hiking boot will not only support your arches but comfortably secure your foot.
They should prevent irritability, blistering, and even sore feet as they absorb shock during your outdoor adventures.
How do you put insoles in hiking boots?
The best way to insert insoles into your hiking hoes is to first take the existing insoles out. Placing shoe inserts on top of existing insoles could be counterproductive, and also not as comfortable.
Insoles for hiking need to sit flat in order to work best, and layering them is not useful.
How long do Sorbothane insoles last?
The amount of time Sorbothane insoles last varies depending on a few different factors. If you have them in your everyday shoes, they may last between 3-6 months, if they are only in your hiking shoes you may get extended use.
Also, things like thickness, and weight, among other things contribute to insoles wearing out.
How should insoles fit?
Your insoles for hiking should fit snugly and comfortably in your shoes. They should be firm enough to absorb shock during running or hiking and to offer support for your arches and ankles.
Insoles are most effective when they are contoured to your feet, so hiking insoles that are too elevated could be counterproductive.
What is the insole volume?
Insoles for hiking have varying volumes. This means they take up different amounts of space in your shoe, which is due to everyone having their own needs. Not all insoles are built the same, or for the same purposes.
While some lower-volume hiking insoles help with support, some higher-volume insoles can help with balance.
What are the best soles for hiking?
For high-volume outdoor adventures like hiking, a high-volume insole would be most efficient. It’s important to have arch support, which will help to absorb shock during your hiking or running.
Therefore, an insole with a high arch and high-volume support would be best when you’re hitting the trails.
What should be in a hiking day pack?
It’s important to bring the right supplies when hiking. In your backpack, you should have plenty of water and food. Being dehydrated is one of the most common beginner hiking mistakes.
Also, a change of appropriate clothing is always useful, along with a first aid kit, maps, knives, knee braces, a lighter, microspikes for hiking on snow, a hiking camera strap if you plan to bring your photo equipment, and more.
Are Vibrams worth it?
There is a mixed opinion on Vibrams. Some say they aren’t worth the hype that is surrounding them.
Others insist these shoes have improved their running form and feel like you’re running barefoot, while also offering your heel protection and still managing to absorb some of the shocks from your run or hike.
Are hiking shoes slippery?
Compared to other boots, hiking shoes are considered to be non-slip shoes. They have deeper tread, which allows for better traction on many different types of terrain.
Although the tougher the rubber is on the bottom of your boot, the less likely it is to adhere when wet, which may cause them to be slippery.
Which sole is best for grip?
The best hiking boot soles are soft rubber ones. They grasp all types of terrain, including rocky or wet surfaces. They offer the best grip, but due to their softer composition, they also deteriorate more quickly.
When comparing the rubber on your next pair of hiking shoes keep this in mind.
What is the advantage of Vibram soles?
Vibram soles seem to have several advantages. Among them would be the support they offer, the feeling of running barefoot, and their cool design. Also, since they’re water-resistant, they keep your feet dry while also preventing water damage.
They’re made of rubber, which is known to be more flexible than leather, therefore they’re also easier to break in.
When should I change my hiking insoles?
If you’re an avid athlete, whether it’s hiking, running, or just leisurely hitting the trails, you’ll know when your insoles for hiking don’t feel as supportive as they used to.
That’s your initial sign to get new ones. Some other telltale signs are that they’re flattened, colorless, damaged, or when begin to hold odor.
Why are my walking boots cracking?
Depending on the material of your walking boots they may begin to crack. Leather boots are more likely to do so, especially if they are not properly maintained.
Another reason hiking boots may begin to crack is that they are dried out, this could be from the sun or the other elements.
Can you wear orthotics in hiking boots?
If you have foot problems but still love to hike, installing orthotics in your hiking boots can save you some grief.
They will add additional support to your feet, arches, and ankles, as well as relieve some of the stress and pressure you put on your heels during your outdoor adventures.
How many miles do walking boots last?
Walking boots are known to last a little longer than hiking boots due to their more leisurely use, but don’t think they’ll last forever. Walking boots should be replaced every 500-1000 miles, or when you notice they don’t offer the support they used to.
When the hiking insoles go flat or they begin to blister or cause aches in your feet it’s time for a new pair.
Are you supposed to replace shoe insoles?
If you want to get the best results out of your hiking insoles, you should replace them regularly. On average, you should replace your shoe’s insoles every 6 months, or when you notice they are beginning to go flat.
Some may last longer if they are higher volume or if they are not your primary shoes.
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Last update on 2024-09-09 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
