For the best heel cups on the market, look no further than ViveSole’s silicone gel heel cups. Ultra versatile, they fit most shoe styles to reduce foot discomfort. But that’s not all—take a look at our list of the best heel cups, to see what else they have to offer.
Our Winner - Silicone Gel Heel Cups by ViveSole
ViveSole’s silicone gel heel cups are available in 4 sizes and come with an adhesive base that keeps them securely in place during use.
Buy on AmazonSore heels are no walk in the park. Ideal for athletes and those who spend time on their feet, heel cups alleviate foot discomfort, as well as conditions such as plantar fasciitis and heel spurs. They do this by cushioning and stabilizing the feet to provide better weight distribution. Keep reading to learn about the difference a pair of heel cups can make in your life.
Our Top Picks
Our Winner
ViveSole
Silicone Gel Heel Cups
Podiatrist Favorite
Heel That Pain
Heel Cups for Heel Pain
Top Choice
Tuli’s Store
Heavy Duty Gel Heel Cup
The 8 Best Heel Cups
| Product | Brand | Sizes Offered | Latex-Free | Color | Best Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Silicone Gel Heel Cups | ViveSole | 4 | Yes | Blue and White |  |
| Heel Cups for Heel Pain | Heel That Pain | 6 | Not Specified | Blue | |
| Heavy Duty Gel Heel Cup | Tuli’s Store | 4 | Not Specified | White | |
| Gel Heel Cups | Envelop | 2 | Not Specified | Blue and Gray | |
| Heel Cushions with Massaging Gel | Dr. Scholl's Store | 2 | Not Specified | Blue | |
| Gel Heel Cups for Plantar Fasciitis Inserts | ARMSTRONG AMERIKA | 2 | Not Specified | Blue and White | |
| Classic Heel Cups | Tuli’s Store | 2 | Not Specified | Yellow | |
| Shock Absorbing Lightweight Gel Heel Cups for Kids | KidSole | 2 | Not Specified | Green and Blue | |
Our Winner: Silicone Gel Heel Cups by ViveSole
Buy on AmazonThis pair of silicone heel cups elevates and cushions the heels to alleviate muscle soreness and fatigue. Made from latex-free silicone gel, the cups feature a self-adhesive base and fit most shoe types, from dress shoes to athletic shoes and work boots. This product comes with a 60-day guarantee.
Main Features
- Made from gel
- Shock absorption
- 1 pair of heel cups
- Men’s and women’s sizes
- Soft and comfortable
Pros:
- Latex-free
- Contoured design
- Suitable for most shoe styles
- 60-day guarantee
Cons:
- May not stay in place
- Too thick for some users
Podiatrist Favorite: Heel Cups for Heel Pain by Heel That Pain
Available in small, medium, and large, these US-manufactured heel cups come in 3 types: firm rubber, semi-firm rubber and gel hybrid, and soft gel. Plus, they feature 360-degree motion control, and are moisture-wicking and machine-washable for easy cleaning.
Main Features
- 3 firmness levels
- Clinically-proven
- Fit most shoe sizes
- Anti-slip surface
- Made in the USA
Pros:
- Improve posture
- Therapeutic acupressure
- Moisture-wicking
- 360-degree motion control
Cons:
- May not provide enough cushioning
- Not ideal choice for plantar fasciitis
Top Choice: Heavy Duty Gel Heel Cups by Tuli’s Store
These US-made gel heel pads come with a lifetime warranty, so you can rest assured that you are getting a quality product. Recommended by doctors, the cups feature a multi-cell waffle design to absorb both light- and heavy-impact pressure.
Main Features
- Unique waffle design
- Made in the USA
- Lightweight and durable
- Patented design
- Designed by a podiatrist
Pros:
- Lifetime warranty
- Made from soft gel
- Suitable for children
- Maximize athletic performance
Cons:
- Higher price point
- Questionable return policy
The Other Heel Cups We Reviewed
Gel Heel Cups by Envelop
These affordable supports distribute the pressure of each heel strike to alleviate foot pain. Plus, they are antimicrobial to prevent bacterial build-up, and can be trimmed down to size to fit most shoe styles. The inserts can be washed by hand, if required. Unfortunately, some reviewers have found these heel cups too thin.
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Heel Cushions with Massaging Gel by Dr. Scholl's Store
Made with multi-layered waves, these heel supports absorb shock, and deliver both cushioning and rebound. The slim design and tapered end ensure that these inserts fit comfortably in most shoes. Please note that this product is not as soft as some other heel cups.
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Gel Heel Cups for Plantar Fasciitis Inserts by ARMSTRONG AMERIKA
Made from soft gel, these heel cups have been designed to alleviate the discomfort of plantar fasciitis, bone spurs, and stress fractures. Lightweight and durable, they are washable so you can use them over and over again. On the downside, some users have found these heel cups overly firm.
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Classic Heel Cups by Tuli’s Store
These US-manufactured heel cups feature a waffle construction that mirrors real heel pads. Made from soft and pliable material, they not only absorb shock but also envelope the feet to rotate with its motion. If you have any concerns, you can take advantage of the lifetime guarantee. Unfortunately, this product can be tricky to secure in place.
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Shock Absorbing Lightweight Gel Heel Cups for Kids by KidSole
Specifically designed for kids and toddlers, these colorful heel cups are ideal for heel sensitivity. Made for active children, they feature a short grip and a bottom traction layer to keep them in place. Nevertheless, some reviewers complain that these heel cups still move around inside the shoes during activity.
Buy on AmazonMost Common Causes of Heel Pain
Heel pain can strike suddenly, hindering our daily life. Here are some of the most common causes of heel pain.
Plantar Fasciitis
Plantar fasciitis is characterized by inflammation of the plantar fascia, a ligament that connects the heel bone with the toes. The condition is often associated with overly low or high arches, and occurs when the plantar fascia is overextended. While plantar fasciitis usually causes pain and stiffness in the heels, it sometimes also affects the middle of the feet.
Heel Bursitis
This condition is caused by the inflammation of the bursa sacs at the back of the heels that normally help the tendons and muscles to move. Heel bursitis can be caused by wearing ill-fitting shoes or placing too much pressure on the heels. The pain of heel bursitis is usually felt at the center or the back of the heels.
Heel Spurs
Often caused by wearing uncomfortable footwear and placing pressure on the muscles and ligaments, heel spurs are abnormal growths around the heel bone. While heel spurs often show no symptoms, they can also be very painful, particularly when jogging or running.
Achilles Tendonitis
Achilles tendonitis is the inflammation of the Achilles tendon that connects the heel to the calf. The condition is often caused by tight calf muscles, and results in pain and tenderness behind the heels. Achilles tendonitis is often caused by overuse, as well as excessive jumping.
Common Heel Cup Questions
What Does a Heel Cup Do?
Heel cups are placed inside shoes to cushion the heels from the shock of daily activities, such as walking and running. Designed to provide pain relief, they are usually self-adhesive or designed to envelop the heels.
What Are the Features to Look For in Heel Cups?
While most heel cups look similar, there are a few things that you should consider before making your purchase. Look for pads that not only provide cushioning but come with soft and flexible edges. If the cups are not self-adhesive, a waffle design can usually add some stability and grip.
Can You Wear Heel Cups with Orthotics?
While it is perfectly alright to leave the original insoles that came with your shoes in place, wearing both heel cups and additional shoe inserts is usually not recommended. This is because heel cups should already provide all the required support and cushioning—if they don’t then you haven’t found the right ones.
Weighing All the Factors
All things considered, we believe that the ViveSole’s silicone gel heel cups are your best bet when it comes to both support and comfort. They are made from latex-free gel and are self-adhesive to stay in place as you walk or run. Heel That Pain’s heel cups and Tuli’s heavy duty heel cups are another two great options for those suffering from heel pain.
Our Winner - Silicone Gel Heel Cups by ViveSole
ViveSole’s silicone gel heel cups are available in 4 sizes and come with an adhesive base that keeps them securely in place during use.
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