Best insoles for overweight people

As an overweight person, more pressure is applied to the feet as you go about your daily activities. Even when wearing an Overweight walking shoe, the impact may result in serious health issues, including collapsed arches, plantar fasciitis, and arthritis. As such, it’s crucial to take precautions.

Insoles are a good way for obese people to get partial stability and support for their feet. The insoles will absorb shock and protect your feet from heavy impact as you walk or run.

So, in this article, we will look at a wide range of supportive insoles for overweight people, allowing you to feel better as you set off on your travels. We have listed 5 different orthotic inserts that have been highly rated and proven to aid those who carry a little extra weight. So, let’s get started!

Shoe-insert for overweight people

Powerstep Pinnacle Maxx

Best shoe-insert – Overall

This is one of the most popular brands of orthotics recommended to overweight persons. The insoles do a good job of providing pain relief from plantar fasciitis, overpronation, bunions, heel pain, and flat feet.

The foam top layer and Eva foam base provide quality cushioning, while the angled heel post increases stability and keeps the heel from rolling in, as does the firm support shell. Covering these layers is a top anti-microbial fabric that reduces friction, perspiration, and heat.

Pros

• Provides greater arch support.
• Improved foot positioning for a stable step.
• Absorbs impact from heel-to-toe for extra comfort.

Cons

• Not as durable as bigger brands; may not last as long.

Dr Scholl’s Pain Relief Orthotics Support

Best shoe-insert – Everyday use

Dr. Scholl’s Pain Relief Orthotics for Heavy Duty Support is specifically designed for people over 200 pounds suffering from leg and foot fatigue plus lower back pain caused by being on their feet for a long time.

It sports proprietary technology, including Arch Guard and Shock Guard technology, that helps distribute the weight and reduce the impact of walking or running. The full-length cushioning insole can be used in work boots and shoes, sneakers, and casual shoes.

Dr. Scholl is confident in the efficiency of this product and that they provide a money-back guarantee for individuals that aren’t satisfied with the results.

Pros

• Extra reinforcement reduces foot fatigue.
• Improved motion control.
• Durable
• Support heavy people over 200 lbs

Cons

• The arch support is quite far forward, which won’t work with everyone’s feet.

Arch Support Insoles Men & Women by Physix Gear Sport Orthotic Inserts for Plantar Fasciitis Relief

Best shoe-insert for flat feet

The Arch Support Insoles by Physix Gear Sport help relieve pain caused by shin splints, sore feet, high arches, overpronation, and plantar fasciitis. Despite their lightweight, low-profile design, they provide more support than thicker insoles. Even better, the thin design ensures that they don’t alter how your shoe fits.

The semi-rigid arch and heel cup provide extra stability and support when you are on the move, while the non-slip heel holds the insert firmly in place throughout the day. Last but not least, the deep cradle adds to its stability.

Pros

• These insoles feel natural, and fit better in a pair of shoes.
• Adds support and absorbs shock, without bulk.
• Improved stability.

Cons

• Cutting these insoles to size may prove to be difficult.

Dr. Scholl’s Insoles Massaging Gel

Best for big and wide feet

Dr. Scholls seeks to reduce back pain and muscle fatigue by absorbing shock from walking and running all day. With the massage gel insole, and tough construction, cushioning is top-notch, and shock impact is reduced.

Studies reveal that individuals walk 10% more daily courtesy of the massage gel technology, which makes every step softer and bouncier. Even on uneven or hard surfaces, the insole provides more support.

When running errands all day, your feet tend to get sweaty and stinky. This insole counteracts this through cooling vents that keep the foot dry and cool all day.

These insoles work with sneakers, casual shoes, work shoes, and boots.

Pros

• The ripple effect absorbs shock where it’s needed most.
• Produces a literal spring in your step.
• Allows air to circulate for fresher feet.

Cons

• Lacks arch support compared to similarly priced insoles.

Walk-hero plantar fasciitis feet insoles

Best for plantar fasciitis

Walk-Hero claims their insoles can relieve pain associated with walking in a week. This is a bold claim they wouldn’t throw around willy-nilly if their technology couldn’t deliver.

Some of the features included in this insole are a deep heel cup which works to stabilize the foot to counter supination and overpronation issues. It also has a semi-rigid arch support that improves skeletal alignment and improves your balance.

They worked with an EVA foam base that provides controlled and targeted cushioning for comfort. Finally, the full-length footbed spreads out support and prevents discomfort.

Pros

• Reduces odor and promotes foot health.
• Keeps your foot in place and protects the heel from impact.
• Supportive cushioning provides energy return for running and sports.

Cons

• The insoles run small, so consider ordering a size up.

The best insoles for heavy people are:

Insoles buyer’s guide

Since body weight and foot pain are directly related, gaining extra weight will put more pressure on the legs, ankles, and feet with every step taken.  Insoles are great products to use to help eliminate foot pain, as they can absorb and distribute excess pressure.

However, to find an insole that suits your needs, you’ll need to learn what to look for in insoles for overweight people. Below are some tips to guide your decision. 

Types of shoe inserts

There are two main types of insoles:

• Cushioning
• Supportive insoles

Cushioning insoles

Cushioning insoles are fairly inexpensive, utilizing thicker padding and extra cushioning for shock absorbency. However, they tend to wear down pretty quickly compared to other types. If you suffer from sore heels or pain in the ball of your foot, then cushioned insoles are ideal for you.

Supportive insoles

On the other hand, supportive insoles are created to mold to the shape of your foot. Compared to cushioning insoles, they are made from a much firmer material.

As such, they are better at holding your foot in place. These products are a lot more expensive than cushioned soles, and it may be harder to find the perfect pair for your needs.

Arch support

Flat feet and collapsed arches are fairly common issues among fat people. By using insoles, you can reduce the discomfort of flattened arches.

However, before purchasing one, you’ll need to identify your arch type to avoid causing further damage and discomfort. 

Generally, there are three arch types:

• High arch
• Medium/neutral arch
• Low arch

To identify your arch type, look at your footprint. If you have high-arched feet, the arch in your footprint will not be visible. With a medium arch, there will be a slightly visible arch on the outer edge of the foot. A low arch will be highly prominent and pronounced in the footprint.

Heel cups

Heel cups are the cupping area that protects your heel and supports the foot and ankle. Heel cups provide comfort and prevent injuries by absorbing shock as you move. 

Orthotic insoles can help reduce pain, especially if you suffer from plantar fasciitis, but you will need the correct size cup. For example, deep heel cups, or large sizes, can support those with a deeper arch, while they would not be as helpful to someone with flatter feet.

Shock absorption

We have spoken a lot about shock absorption, and for a good reason: this is a very important factor to consider while seeking insoles. Shock-absorbing technology in insoles reduces the impact when walking or performing high-impact activities, consequently reducing discomfort and pain. Many brands will use foam to absorb shock since it’s less bulky.

Shoe size

Since most removable insoles are made from soft materials like foam, they can be trimmed using scissors to fit your shoes. But while this is an option, you should try and find an insole that is your exact foot size to guarantee comfort.

The support, heel, and sole placements are placed on the insole depending on shoe size. So, if you purchase a large pair of insoles, but your feet are small, the placements for arch support, heel cups, and cushioning will not be properly aligned to support your feet.

Shoe type

The shoe type is another important consideration. Generally, dress shoes require additional support than Running shoes for heavy men. Moreover, basketball shoes need more cushioning than hiking boots or walking shoes.

By locating which area of your foot requires the most support like the foot arch or the ball of the foot, you can select insoles that will work best for your needs.

Why do my feet hurt when I wear insoles?

Your insoles will likely feel uncomfortable if they are not properly fitted. If the arch placement is wrong, the heel cup does not fit in the correct place, or the material is too firm, you will experience discomfort and pain. Insoles should be fitted to your specific foot shape.

If your insoles are old or worn out, they are inefficient and can cause pain.  Frequent usage will eventually flatten the insole and destroy all supportive properties, so it is very important to replace your insoles over time. Bear in mind that some insoles last longer than others. 

How long does it take for feet to get used to shoe inserts?

As a rule, it will take around 1 to 2 weeks for your feet to get used to new insoles. We recommend wearing them for 2 to 4 hours each day around your home when you first buy them to make the transition easier.

Afterward, you can gradually increase the time spent wearing the insoles every day until you get to wearing them full-time.

The reason insoles hurt when you first wear them is because the soft tissue inside your foot needs to adjust to the new shape of your shoes. Once they adjust and the insole material has molded to your foot shape, you will feel lesser and lesser discomfort.

It is so important to listen to your body and only increase the time spent in your new orthotics when the time is right. If your insoles are still painful to wear after 3 weeks, you may need to look for a different pair.

Final thoughts

Insoles can change your life, altering the way you feel about walking or moving. Once your foot pain subsides, you will be surprised how your mood will improve. 

Take a look through our chosen products in the list above, but if you would prefer to find your own insoles, remember to keep our buyer’s guide in mind. Consider all aspects, and find a pair that suits your specific foot shape, arch, and heel. For more information be sure to check out the rest of Extra Large Living.