Footwear Focus—A Podiatrist’s Review of Superfeet Insoles
They say great people aren’t often born—they’re made. The same can be said of your shoes.
Sometimes, finding your perfect pair of shoes means adding orthotic inserts. This is the secret sauce many savvy steppers use to achieve their personal Cinderella moment and turn every pair of shoes into their just-right pair.
Like a custom-tailored suit, shoe inserts can elevate your footwear game and help your shoes conform to the unique anatomy of your feet and ankles.
These days, there are a few different options on the market for over-the-counter insoles. While they won’t give you the same personalized fit as custom orthotic inserts, they’ve come a long way in delivering the support and customization your feet need to feel their best.
But how do you know which OTC insoles are worth the investment?
This month, I’m sharing my thoughts on an insert brand I’ve personally vetted. Read on to learn more about Superfeet for this month’s Footwear Focus!
An overview of the Superfeet brand
Superfeet was founded in 1977 with a mission to meld comfort and science to create footwear insoles to support foot health and wellness.
Starting as the Sports Medicine Division of the Northwest Podiatric Laboratory, they’ve continued and deepened their commitment to harnessing podiatric science to inform and elevate their insole technology in their more than 40 years in business.
Superfeet starts its process with a focus on biomechanics.
How do the feet work? And what do feet need to feel and perform their best?
Their approach combines biometric data, cutting-edge technology, and innovative materials to address foot pain and discomfort.
Their proprietary shape and range of insole options are designed to mold to the feet of each wearer—delivering enhanced comfort, support, and performance.
The four pillars of their design include:
Cushioning materials
Arch support for stability
Moisture-wicking technology for less friction and odor control
Heel cup for optimal positioning and shock absorption
Their patented Encapsulating Stabilizer System (ESS) is designed to cradle your whole foot. This offers your feet greater support and stability, which can also benefit your ankles, knees, and spine.
Superfeet also asserts that their inserts help those with plantar fasciitis by stabilizing the bones of the feet and preventing over-stretching of the plantar fascia ligament.
On paper, they sound amazing. But do they live up to the hype?
Next, I’ll answer some frequently asked questions about Superfeet, as a foot health expert with extensive experience fitting and assessing orthotic inserts and insoles.
A podiatrist answers common questions about Superfeet insoles
Let’s dive into some questions folks have about Superfeet insoles to help you decide if they’re the right choice to support your foot health goals.
Who are Superfeet insoles right for?
With their focus on shock absorption and support, Superfeet are designed to offer added comfort and support for feet of all shapes and sizes.
They’re especially appropriate for runners, those with high arches, and folks with plantar fasciitis. While they won’t deliver you the personalized support of custom orthotics, they’re also less costly than this option for those looking to save.
How long do Superfeet insoles last?
Superfeet insoles are made to last for a full year or 500 miles—whichever comes first.
It’s important to note, however, that their expected lifespan is impacted by a few factors. These include: your gait, your weight, the shoes you use them in, and how often you wear them.
How do I pick the right Superfeet insoles for me?
Start by assessing your feet and asking yourself a few questions.
Do you have a low, medium, or high arch? Are you looking for firm support or soft cushioning? What shoes are you planning to wear with your insoles? Are they snug or looser fitting?
This info will help you select the ideal Superfeet insoles for you.
Here’s a helpful guide that can walk you through the selection process.
How do Superfeet differ from other popular insole brands?
The main differences between Superfeet and other insole brands (like Dr. Scholl’s) are Superfeet’s focus on stability, support, and structure. Dr. Scholl’s are primarily designed to deliver comfort and cushioning to wearers. Superfeet promotes arch support, alignment, and contoured inserts to reduce foot fatigue and enhance stability.
Next, let’s dive into my review of Superfeet insoles, so you can learn how an experienced podiatrist experiences this brand and its offerings.
Do podiatrists recommend Superfeet insoles?
For those who aren’t ready to explore custom orthotic inserts, Superfeet are a great over-the-counter insole option.
I personally own them, and the green all-purpose version for high arches is my go-to pair in my running shoes. I prefer these OG all-purpose to their running-specific offerings.
One note: In truth, I have a very average arch, but these fit me well. They may not be right for you if you dislike the feeling of something making contact with your arch when you move.
Some fit guidance from my experience with the brand—
For the all-purpose inserts, your options are basically green/blue and orange/berry.
The green and orange are a deeper heel cup/high arch, and the blue and berry are a less deep heel cup/lower arch.
The orange and berry both have additional cushioning in the forefoot.
One thing I like about Superfeet is that they offer more than just arch support. Their deep heel cup gives added support and sits better in your shoe than others I’ve tried.
They also offer many options in their insoles. This means you can find the right support for activities like running, but also for other sports that use cleats and even for dressy footwear.
I also appreciate Superfeet’s unique stable of insole offerings. They include kids’ sizes, inserts designed specifically for hockey cleats, and inserts made for certain winter sports. This allows you to select the perfect option for your activity needs.
They’ve also expanded their offerings to include a “custom” 3D printed option. I haven’t tried these, but I’d be shocked if they were as good as truly custom orthotics like those you can find in top-quality podiatry clinics. Personally, I’d always opt for those when given the choice. But I can see the appeal these provide for those who need to cover the full costs of custom inserts out of pocket, as they are less expensive.
If you’re looking for an orthotic insole that offers more than the usual OTC brands, without the price tag of custom orthotic inserts, this podiatrist recommends you give Superfeet a try!
If you need more support and guidance with fit or are interested in comparing and exploring custom orthotic inserts, feel free to reach out! My team and I are happy to help you understand your options so you can keep stepping strong in Chicago.
Check out our cutting-edge podiatry services, book an appointment easily online, and visit our blog regularly for up-to-date info and guidance to support your foot health and wellness.
City Step Podiatry is here for you! Reach out today to schedule your visit and treat your feet to the care they deserve.
