Even if you spend a fraction of your day in work boots, the best insoles for work boots can have a huge benefit.
For those of you on a worksite for the entire day, they’re a must-have to improve comfort and prevent injuries.
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Here’s the list of the best insoles for work boots right now:
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Why Change Your Insoles?
It’s a popular misconception that only individuals with medical conditions need insoles or inserts to support their feet.
This can’t be further from the truth!
In fact, anyone who spends a lot of time on their feet or wears work boots for extended periods should use insoles.
This tiny footwear change can help you beat foot stress and fatigue, not to mention avoid any serious injuries in the long run.
Such foot stress isn’t confined to the feet, and anyone who spends a lot of time on their feet will tell you the same. It’s very common for the stress to move towards the back and cause further issues. Wearing a set of insoles helps to prevent these problems.
Alleviate Plantar Fasciitis or High-Arch Symptoms
If you do have a medical condition, such as plantar fasciitis or high arches, wearing insoles becomes almost compulsory.
It can be daunting spending numerous hours on your feet with one of these conditions. Fortunately, insoles are specifically designed for these conditions to offer additional support.
Fix Shoes That Don’t Fit
Adding a pair of insoles to shoes that don’t fit can fill the space to make them fit better and prevent bruises and injuries, such as blisters, which occur when feet are constantly moving inside shoes.
They can also offer temporary relief from bunions or bone spurs. Such insoles cushion these sensitive regions and prevent the condition from worsening.
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Different Insole Types
Ensuring you have the right insole type is vital for maximum foot health.
These primarily belong to two categories:
- Comfort.
- Support.
While comfort insoles still offer support, and vice versa, it’s important to note that these versions are the best in their category. This means that while comfort insoles do offer support, they don’t offer nearly as much support as those dedicated to providing this.
Comfort Insoles
Comfort insoles are specifically designed to make your footwear far more comfortable and pleasurable to wear.
You don’t need any medical conditions to purchase these insoles, and they’re ideal for individuals who spend a lot of time on their feet or have to walk for numerous hours.
They achieve optimal comfort by providing additional cushioning in vital regions, such as near the arch and heel. This allows you to walk on hard surfaces without feeling the brunt on your feet.
Such inserts tend to either come with flat padding or feature foam or gel cushioning.
If comfort levels don’t drastically improve with these, you may have a foot condition, and you need to consult with a podiatrist. It’s likely they’ll recommend more supportive insoles instead.
Support Insoles
Support insoles are more suitable for managing from medical conditions and reducing the likelihood of developing further injuries.
They’re much harder than comfort inserts and use far less-flexible materials, such as thermoplastics or polypropylene, while sacrificing stability.
Their focus is around the heels and arches, as many foot-related issues stem from these regions.
Also, some products use intelligent design features to support the metatarsal region and even assist in the realignment of joints.
If you have plantar fasciitis and spend a lot of time on your feet, you need a pair that provides additional arch support and allows a natural foot position during a stride.
Those with high arches will also require additional support from this type of insole to conform to the arch shape.
In addition, those with overpronation require support inserts that stabilize the foot and prevent the natural foot roll from slipping on either side.
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What to Look for When Buying Insoles
Apart from the medical benefits of using insoles in your work boots, a few other factors influence your experience with insoles.
The following will help you find the best insoles for work boots:
Materials
The best insoles for work boots feature excellent materials that determine your comfort levels and the product’s longevity.
Products made using EVA foam, memory foam or other high-quality foams are the most comfortable when you’re spending long hours on your feet.
Such materials mold around the feet and return to their original position once you’re done using them for the day. Or, they retain the foot shape to hug the contours for immediate support and comfort. Either way, they’ll be ready for extended use.
Some of the other quality materials used in insoles include synthetics and blends that feature polyester:
- Synthetic: Lightweight and easy on your feet. They’re also highly breathable, even when used across the day.
- Polyester: Blends that feature polyester don’t just reduce the product’s cost but also increase its flexibility and durability.
Arch Support
In terms of insole design, arch support is a crucial factor.
When you have arch support from your insoles, you’ll be able to spend much more time on your feet without feeling too much additional pain.
Wearing such an insole over extended periods can train your feet to maintain the correct arch position and even revert your arches to the optimum position over time. This will help greatly improve the health of your feet.
Shock Absorption
One of the primary purposes of wearing a shoe in the first place is to protect your feet from impact while walking rapidly, running, or from sudden jolts. But, a pair of high-quality insoles can offer additional support to your shoes, as well.
Several models boast excellent shock absorption abilities. If you feel a fair bit of pain on your feet after a day’s work, focus on getting insoles that absorb shock really well.
Breathability and Odor Reduction
When you spend most of your day in the same pair of shoes, you’re almost certain to work up a stink.
An easy way to fix this issue is to purchase insoles that offer high levels of breathability and odor reduction.
Breathability comes down to the design of the product and the type of materials in the insole. Synthetics maximize an insole’s breathability, while in-built technology can do the same with certain brands.
A great example of this is the Hydrologix moisture-wicking technology in the Sof Sole Men’s Full-Length Gel Shoe Insert.
To reduce the odors emitting from your shoes after a hard day’s work, seek products that utilize antimicrobial top fabrics on their insoles. These reduce the insole’s friction and moisture-absorption, reducing odor buildup over time.
The Powerstep Pinnacle Insoles are a great example of an insole that puts antimicrobial technology to excellent use.
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How to Change Insoles
You can easily replace the insoles of your shoes by following these simple steps:
- Most of the time, work boots’ insoles are easily replaced by simply pulling them out. Do this gently in case the insoles are tight-fitting.
- Keep the old insole in case you need to use it as a reference for your new insoles.
- Place the new insole into the shoe with the toe sliding into the shoe first.
- Fold the insole gently, like a tortilla, to easily reach the toe area.
- Then, use your hands to press the insole down and let it settle inside your shoes. Ensure that the insole is evenly placed inside.
- If the insole fits perfectly, you’re pretty much done, and you can begin wearing your work boots.
- If the insoles don’t fit perfectly, use the old insole as a reference, and trim the excess area around the new insole to make it fit into the work boots. Do this by placing the old insole over the new one and tracing the region around the old insole to leave yourself a marker.
- Once you trim off the excess insoles with a pair of scissors, it should fit well within your shoes, and you’re good to go!
If you have other sizing issues with your shoes, refer to our guide on how to make your big shoes fit.
How to Replace Non-Replaceable Insoles
If your old insoles don’t come off or if they’re glued into the shoes, all hope isn’t lost via a hairdryer:
- Set the hairdryer on low to not overheat the shoe.
- Allow the glue inside the shoe to slowly melt.
- You’ll notice that the insole will begin to dislodge from its spot in a few minutes.
- Gently assist the movement with your fingers, and wiggle it out of its place.
- Pretty soon, the entire insole should become unstuck.
- Now you can replace the old insole with the new one.
- Gently fold the insole to make it easier.
- Slide the new insole toe first into the shoes.
- Use your hands to level the insole.
- Trim the new insole if necessary by using the old insole as a size reference.
How Often Should You Change Insoles?
This is a highly subjective question, with no real right or wrong answer.
Any insole’s lifespan comes down to the user and the intensity they’re putting their insoles to work.
Regardless of your work schedule, you can tell when your insoles are beginning to run their course and are nearing the end of their lifespan. This happens when you don’t receive the same level of support or shock absorption as you did when you first got them.
If the insoles have dipped to about half their initial quality, consider a change.
Another factor that gives away the insole’s lifespan is its odor. Once you’ve put your insoles through the wringer, it starts to show, or rather, smell. This makes the product unhygienic for further use and will need replacing.
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Reviews of the Best Insoles for Work Boots
Our Overview
This Powerstep model takes the highest honors as the best insoles for work boots.
In particular, it has an EVA foam sole for long-term comfort after repeated use. The durable EVA foam base is assisted by a plush and comfortable top layer that features cushioning technology. This adds to the shoes’ comfort and restores the foam’s shape after heavy use.
Note that this pair’s arch support is semi-rigid, making it both firm and flexible. A deep heel cradle adds to the arch support to increase the foot support and heighten the shoes’ stability.
One of the major reasons this insole is ideal for work boots and extended use is the antimicrobial top fabric used on the insole. This special fabric reduces heat and friction effects, not to mention keeping a check on the moisture and bacteria generated within the shoes, reducing odor.
Such a feature will ensure your feet are far more comfortable after a long day’s work, and it reduces your likelihood of developing blisters.
Overall, these insoles’ design and quality make them compatible with a wide range of arch types, including high, neutral and low arches. Additionally, you can use these insoles on casual shoes, dress shoes and athletic shoes apart from work boots.
These are a type of comfort orthotics and are ideal for various foot conditions, such as foot pronation, metatarsal pains, plantar fasciitis and arch discomfort.
There’s only one design flaw in this model: the shock absorption features aren’t as pronounced as some of the other products on this list. Additionally, they’re a bit too wide, so extra effort is needed to trim them for an ideal fit.
Pros:
- Ample cushioning from the EVA foam and plush top layer.
- Variable cushioning technology for greater comfort levels.
- Antimicrobial top layer helps keep your shoes dry and odor-free.
- Ideal for a wide range of arch types and foot conditions.
Cons:
- The width runs large and may require trimming.
- Shock absorption could be better.
Our Overview
This Sof Sole pair of comfort insoles consist of a 100% Implus foam material, ensuring your feet are comfortable and well-protected when used in work boots.
Of note is that they’re orthotic insoles designed to improve your comfort levels through a wide range of activities, such as casual use, running, cross-training and walking.
Also, their design features a contoured neutral arch, making them ideal for nearly all types of foot dimensions. In addition, you can use them in work boots, casual footwear and athletic footwear, thanks to their overall shape and design.
To keep the insoles’ weight to a minimum, the manufacturers have used a lightweight cushioning and gel pads in the forefoot and heel. These allow the insoles in work boots to be comfortable without taking up too much space or becoming too hefty.
Note that the Hydrologix moisture-wicking prevents your feet from sweating, improving comfort and reducing odor over long periods.
However, one of this pair’s flaws is the excessive cushioning. While some customers are happy with the added padding, others have issues with the disproportionate raising of the heel section.
Something else to be aware of is the lack of attention to the insole’s shock-absorption abilities. It could be far better than its current condition.
Pros:
- Made entirely of Implus foam.
- Doubles-up as performance orthotic insoles.
- Suitable for a wide range of activities.
- Lightweight cushioning and the gel pads keeps the weight low.
- Hydrologix treatment controls moisture levels and eliminates odors.
Cons:
- Some customers have complained about the excessive cushioning on these insoles.
- Mediocre shock-absorption capabilities.
Our Overview
Superfeet produces some high-quality support insoles, not to mention creating a diverse set of products for every occasion. This particular model is all-purpose and features a design that maximizes comfort levels.
It does this by packing long-lasting support into a high-performance, thin and lightweight insole. You can thus use these insoles to improve the fitting on various types of footwear, alongside boosting support and comfort.
This model’s durability is exceptional. According to the manufacturers, it will last 12 months or 500 miles, whichever comes first. For a pair of work boots, that’s impressive!
It also has a medium-profile shape and contours designed for support in the most crucial regions: the heel and ball. Despite this, the insole takes up very little space inside your shoes.
Also, the high-density closed-cell foam boosts comfort levels substantially, along with ensuring the product’s lifespan.
You can easily use this insole all day without worrying about creating odors in your footwear, thanks to the natural coating eliminating bacteria.
Its design is naturally supportive of various arch types and helps position the heel naturally to absorb shocks.
Some other important design features are the stabilizer cap to improve support and the structured heel cup for maximum stability.
The one major flaw, according to users, is the plastic-based support system. Some users have found this to be of poor quality.
Pros:
- High-performance, all-purpose insole ideal for a wide range of activities.
- Durable build lasts up to 500 miles or 12 months.
- Medium-profile design offers support without piling on the weight.
- Closed-cell foam supports and cushions your foot.
- Natural coating to eliminate odors.
- Stabilizer cup and structured heel cup maximize support and stability.
Cons:
- Plastic-based support can be off-putting.
Our Overview
This Keen insole has an excellent design and contains high-quality materials. More specifically, it’s made from a premium synthetic material. This ensures that the insole is lightweight and breathable even after extended use while absorbing shock. Additionally, a high rebound foam grants more spring, generating more energy and allows you to easily get through the day in your work boots.
In terms of the design, the heel cup is directly in the center to align with the heel to improve your alignment and heel strike. It also offers medium arch support to further center your body’s natural alignment.
Eliminating odors is also a feature, thanks to the use of the trademarked Cleansport NXT Anti-Odor Technology. Thanks to this, the insole has quick-drying properties and includes a lining with an all-natural, probiotic-based technology to quickly break down sweat odors.
The manufacturers are highly confident about their product, offering a 90-day warranty on these comfort insoles.
This model’s natural design assists in offering support to the user, and this requires a firm base. However, this is a negative quality for some users as they feel this model can be a bit too firm.
Pros:
- High-quality synthetic material.
- Premium-quality cushioning and fit.
- Improved heel stability thanks to the heel cup positioning.
- Cleansport NXT anti-odor technology eliminates odors.
- 90-day warranty.
Cons:
- Some users have an issue with the insole’s excessive firmness.
Our Overview
This high-quality Superfeet comfort insoles have a unique copper look and is compatible with a wide range of everyday activities, not to mention in your work boots.
It also pairs well with a large number of shoes, including:
- Work boots.
- Golf shoes.
- Dress shoes.
- Casual shoes.
- Industrial shoes.
- Service shoes.
Its design makes it particularly ideal for low-to-medium arched feet due to the contours’ dimensions.
Additionally, this pair assists with a wide range of foot-related medical problems, such as plantar fasciitis, heel pain and many other common foot issues.
Also, Superfeet has used a special DMP foam that adapts to the foot shape without creating discomfort after extended use. Thanks to this material, the insole maintains its long-term biomechanical integrity and gives continued stabilization and support for your feet. This also bolsters the insoles’ shock-absorption.
You’ll also receive a detailed user guide with every purchase that gives thorough sizing information. Use this sizing information to help you trim the insoles for work boots and get the ideal fit.
However, according to some users, these insoles wear out fairly quickly, meaning it has a reduced lifespan. When coupled with the fairly expensive price tag, consider whether you’re willing to replace these insoles regularly.
Pros:
- High-quality DMP foam adapts to the foot’s shape.
- Supports a wide set of foot-related medical conditions.
- Can pair this insole with various types of footwear.
- Ideal for everyday activities and for those on their feet for a long time.
Cons:
- Expensive when compared to similar products.
- Lifespan could be better.
Our Overview
Form has used an 80% EVA foam, 19% polyurethane and 1% polyester blend to maximize its comfort and durability.
In terms of this design, this comfort model features a maximum support custom-fitting design. This helps prolong the comfort and maximizes the insole’s shock-absorption.
Therefore, you can use this model for a wide range of activities, including exercising, working and casual wear. Additionally, these athletic insoles feature a design that’s compatible with both genders.
Maximizing comfort is a top agenda for the manufacturers. They’ve achieved this by using a special arch design that reduces the stress on the feet and knees.
In terms of the internal material, a special high-density foam makes it suitable for high-intensity activities, such as running. The heel cup is also designed to optimize support while increasing stability and positioning.
To keep moisture and odor to a minimum, the fabric’s top layer includes a lining with a Temperweave material. This ensures you can spend your entire day in the same pair of shoes without worrying about stinky feet.
Form has also included optional molding to give the option of a custom fit. This allows you to tailor the support and comfort to your needs.
If we had to mention a drawback for this model, it would be that some users have reported that the arch height collapses over time. When you notice this happening with your model, it’s a sign that you need to change insoles immediately.
Pros:
- Excellent arch support and shock absorption.
- High-density foam ensures maximum comfort.
- Temperweave material to reduce moisture and odor.
- Custom-fitting option.
- Compatible with both genders.
Cons:
- The arch height can collapse over time.
Our Overview
Timberland is famous for creating exquisite footwear, but we bet you didn’t know it makes quality insoles, too. This pair is one of its best products and is specifically designed to upgrade your feet and footwear’s performance.
It does this with the help of anti-fatigue technology that features an inverted cone foam. This absorbs any stray or forceful shocks to your feet, preserving your energy and vitality in the long run.
A synthetic sole and ortholite fabric are the primary materials in this product. They help to improve your comfort levels and heighten the support on offer.
The anti-fatigue technology also comes with a shock-absorbing geometrical technology that returns the energy back to your foot with each stride.
These design features also make this insole ideal for a wide range of high and low-intensity activities, such as hiking, running, playing sports, walking or simply standing. This makes this model one of the best support insoles in the market today.
One major drawback of this model is the lifespan. Customers have reported a lack of durability, which is disappointing for such a high-end brand.
Pros:
- Inverted cone foam returns energy to your feet.
- Anti-fatigue technology minimizes shocks to the feet.
- Ideal for a multitude of activities.
Cons:
- Durability and lifespan could be better.
Our Overview
Dr. Scholl’s produces high-quality orthotics for those who need special foot care. This pair of insoles is one of the brand’s best and is specifically designed for foot discomfort or who regularly experience foot fatigue.
To counter these conditions, the insoles have massaging gel technology that doubles foot comfort. With this, special gel pockets are strategically placed across the insoles.
Best of all, wearing these insoles over extended periods will also help reduce muscle fatigue and take the stress off your feet and legs.
Note that you can fit these comfort insoles into casual shoes, work boots, sneakers and a wide range of other footwear.
Additionally, Dr. Scholl provides a three-month money-back guarantee if you’re unhappy with the product, backing up its quality.
However, a negative for this product is that there’s no odor-control mechanism built into the design. Despite its superior features, this product loses points due to this.
Pros:
- Massaging gel technology improves comfort.
- Ideally designed for those who spend a lot of time on their feet.
- Reduces foot muscle fatigue and takes the strain off your legs.
- Three-month money-back guarantee.
Cons:
- Lack of an odor-control mechanism.
Our Overview
These Nazaroo high-quality budget insoles include an excellent design to tackle medical problems, such as arch, foot and ankle pain and plantar fasciitis, making them a medical-grade option.
Such support is possible via a durable and premium EVA foam on the base and a multi-layer cushioning system on top for added support and comfort. This makes them ideal for high-intensity activities, such as running or hiking, on top of being well-suited to work boots.
On top of such high-quality support and comfort, the insoles are highly breathable, ensuring you won’t have to worry about odors or moisture, even after extended use.
Also, thanks to intelligent design, this support insole has excellent arch support and helps distribute the weight evenly while in your stride. This minimizes pressure on your feet and prevents injuries from developing.
Additionally, a deep heel cradle stabilizes your foot’s structure, while the built-in silicon heel support acts as a brilliant shock absorber.
The manufacturer is so confident about the product’s quality that it offers a money-back guarantee if you’re unsatisfied with their performance. We’re unable to confirm how long this is for, though.
A drawback for this model is that some users have reported the base to be a bit too hard.
Pros:
- Fit into nearly any type of footwear.
- Medical-grade insole.
- Durable EVA foam and multi-layer cushioning for maximum comfort.
- Arch support distributes weight evenly.
- Money-back guarantee.
Cons:
- Base can be quite hard, which users find uncomfortable.
Our Overview
These are a quality mid-range comfort selection developed by a brand that’s known for its superior insoles. This pair stands out since a podiatrist’s expertise plays a major role in finalizing its design features.
One of its best features is the flexible inner core, which molds to the shape of your feet while simultaneously retaining firmness to add support.
As it’s developed by a medical professional, it can last a considerable period and is ideal for those on their feet for long periods, especially in work boots.
Note that this model can provide instant pain relief from foot-related injuries, such as plantar fasciitis, high arches and low arches.
Also, the insoles sport an intelligent design that’s capable of fitting into nearly any type of footwear, making them ideal for those who prefer a single pair of insoles for ALL their shoes.
One of the drawbacks mentioned by users l is that this insole can wear out fairly quickly. While some users have managed to make it last for a year, others have had trouble with the model after a couple of months.
This eventually comes down to individual use, but it’s worth knowing that heavy usage can wear this model down in a matter of months.
Pros:
- Designed by a podiatrist for maximum efficiency.
- Flexible inner core offers support and comfort.
- 60-day money-back guarantee.
- Priced reasonably well when compared to similar options.
Cons:
- Can wear out fairly quickly.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Are the Best Insoles for Standing All Day?
The best insoles for standing all day are the Powerstep Pinnacle Insoles. They’re made using high-quality materials and offer plenty of cushioning. This allows you to spend your day on your feet without feeling the brunt.
What Are the Best Insoles for Working on Concrete?
The best insoles for working on concrete are the Dr. Scholl’s Massaging Gel Insoles. They have a premium quality gel in the necessary sections to help the feet on especially hard surfaces, such as concrete.
Do Dr Scholl’s Insoles Really Work?
Yes, Dr Scholl’s insoles do really work. The company is proud that its insoles have been clinically proven to help users with foot, knee and back pain.
What Are the Best Insoles for Walking All Day?
The best insoles for walking all day are the Sof Sole Insoles Men’s Full-Length Gel Shoe Insert. The contoured neutral arch, coupled with the orthotic insole design, makes it ideal for spending all day on your feet.
How Often to Change Insoles in Work Boots?
Look to change insoles in boots every three to six months. This comes down to the quality of the insoles you’re using and the amount of time you spend on your feet. If you don’t utilize insoles in work boots very often, look to change them once every six to nine months.
Working on Those Work Boots
Spending every day on your feet can be a tiresome and demanding task. Our feet were never equipped for such continued strenuous activity, and it can be damaging to our body in the short and long run. This includes developing various issues such as sore feet, varicose veins, and leg swelling.
By adding the best insoles for boots, you can enhance your comfort levels and provide support to your feet.
This is where the likes of the Powerstep Pinnacle Insoles stand out as the best option right now, but any of our selections will work wonders on your feet.
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