The Best Gel Insoles

Whether you suffer from foot pain or simply spend a lot of time on your feet, investing in a pair of quality gel insoles is never a bad idea. Orthotics are also ideal for alleviating the discomfort of conditions such as plantar fasciitis, heel spurs, or Morton’s neuroma. With this in mind, check out our guide to the top gel insoles on the market, and don’t let foot pain take over your life.

Q & A About Gel Insoles

Find the answers to your insole questions here.

• What Are Gel Insoles Used For?

  While the main reasons for placing inserts into your shoes are comfort and support, gel inserts have a multitude of benefits. Orthotics can correct posture problems and prevent pesky foot issues such as corns and blisters. They can also keep your shoes fresh and odor-free.

• How Do You Put in Gel Insoles?

  Placing insoles in your shoes is generally very simple. Start by checking whether your shoes already have inserts. If so, remove them first. Then put the new inserts inside your shoes to test if they are the correct size. If your orthotics are too big, you can usually trim them down to the correct size.

• How Long Do Gel Insoles Last?

  While this will depend on how often you wear your shoes, most gel insoles should last between 6 and 12 months. There are a number of signs that will tell you when it is time to replace your inserts. Tearing, cracking, and discoloration usually mean that your inserts are no longer delivering the appropriate support and cushioning. Some other things to look out for are unpleasant odor and signs of compression.

• What Are Inserts Typically Made of?

  While traditionally shoe insoles were crafted from either leather or cork, today they are mostly made from foam or gel. Foam inserts tend to be used for cushioning whereas gel ones are usually considered more supportive. To get the benefit of both types of material, opt for orthotics that combine both gel and foam.

• Can I Wear Just One Insole?

  While you may only be experiencing pain in your right or left foot, it is very important that you wear both of your inserts. This is because wearing only one insert will elevate one side of your body, putting it out of balance.

Other Foot Care Tips

Aside from investing in a pair of gel inserts, there are certain steps you can take to ensure that your feet stay healthy and pain-free. Here are just a few.

• Wear the Right Shoes

  Overly tight or large shoes can cause foot problems, and even put your knees, hips, and spine out of alignment. As such, it is best to avoid high heels and pointy shoes, which can cramp the toes. It’s best to select footwear with wide toe boxes and ample arch support. When trying on shoes in the store, be sure that there is around half an inch between the top of the shoes and your longest toes.

• Keep Your Feet Clean and Dry

  Cleaning your feet on a regular basis can prevent a lot of problems down the line, such as annoying skin conditions. Scrub your feet with soap and dry them well once you get out of the shower, particularly between the toes. If you suffer from corns and calluses, use a pumice stone rather than a shaver or a foot peel to remove them.

• Examine Your Feet

  Check your feet every few days for problems such as cuts, swelling, and sores. In addition, look for discoloration on your toenails, as this can often be an indication of a fungal infection. Use a mirror if you have trouble seeing the soles of your feet. Individuals with diabetes should inspect their feet on a daily basis, as they are at a much higher risk of developing infections and foot sores.

• Don’t Put Off Seeing Your Doctor

  Finally, consult your doctor or podiatrist as soon as possible if you discover any swelling, discoloration, or sores on your feet. This will usually be enough to ensure that minor issues don’t turn into major disasters.

Weighing All the Factors

Taking all the important features into consideration, we found that GAOAG’s orthotic gel supports are your best option in terms of comfort and support. Available in different sizes, these inserts pair a non-slip design and cushioning gel pads. Our other two top choices, Dr. Scholl’s massaging gel insoles and Envelop’s full length orthotics are also great options that come with a bunch of unique features.