Aging Can Cause Foot Arches to Drop — These Insoles May Help

One reviewer says the insoles help them walk “more confidently without fear of joint pain caused by fallen arches.”

According to UCLA Health, getting older, along with health conditions such as diabetes and rheumatoid arthritis, can increase the risk of flat feet or fallen arches. Cleveland Clinic says that can lead to foot pain and may also affect the body’s alignment and raise the risk of ankle instability, which can add to balance and stability problems. That may sound serious, but there are ways to help. For people dealing with flat feet or fallen arches, both UCLA Health and Cleveland Clinic recommend arch-supporting insoles. If pain is severe or you have a history of foot problems, it may also be wise to talk with a doctor.

Designed to “mimic” the human foot, these “life-changing” insoles are made to deliver stronger arch support and help improve foot positioning to reduce pressure on the knees and spine.

They support up to 240 pounds and are available in sizes up to 14.5 for men and 15.5 for women. You can also trim them for a more precise fit. Made for work boots, hiking boots, running shoes, sneakers, dress shoes and more, they slide in easily and offer what shoppers call “immediate relief” for a range of foot issues. “The moment you slip them into your shoes, you’ll feel a noticeable difference,” one reviewer wrote. “The cushioning is just right – not too soft, not too firm.”

The insoles use shock-absorbing foam and pressure-relieving gel pads, plus a reinforced heel cup for stability, a firm base for support and a velvet-like top layer meant to “keep your feet cool and dry, even during extended periods of use.”

Fans praise the arch-focused design, saying it not only eases pain but also helps “to reduce strain on the feet and promote better posture.” One shopper said, “I can even balance myself better, could feel myself holding my posture better, I loved them so much, that I bought two more the next day,” while another wrote, “...Helps my posture and increased my walk speed.”

Reviewers say these insoles “helped my fallen arches” and plenty of other foot problems, too.

Because of their strong arch support and stability, it’s no surprise these insoles are popular with adults who have fallen arches. One reviewer, whose work involves lots of walking and standing, said their arches have fallen so much they’ve “begun to make contact with the floor.” They added that the cushioning and arch support “kept my feet comfortable” and said the insoles work well with street shoes. Another reviewer in their 60s said the insoles “help keep me on the hard court” while playing pickleball five to six days a week.

“Typical arch supports tend to sag over time, especially if you’re a heavier individual,” Nick said. “These provide firm and consistent support and help me walk more confidently without fear of joint pain caused by fallen arches!”

They’re also appreciated for more than arch support. A reviewer with heel spurs, caused by being on their feet for up to 18 hours a day behind a bar, called the insoles “pure foot magic!” “I BREEZE through those doubles/triples like nothing with these bad boys adhered to my shoes. LOVE THEM,” they wrote. Others say the insoles help with bunions from “old lady feet,” arthritis, high arches and even support “bad knees/bad ankles.”

People who have tried other insoles say this pair is a big step up for balance and stability.

“I finally have the arch support that I need,” shopper Scarlett said. “I have tried other inserts for high arch from other brands, but this is the only one that has been high enough with support under my foot.”

Scarlett said the strong arch support took a little getting used to. “...As I walked more and more, I could feel that it was working for me, esp when I leaned over to the side to grab something and didn’t almost lose my balance like I had been with the other brands,” she said. “I could feel this one helping me keep balance because my foot was positioned properly with the orthotic.”

“After a week, I noticed that my gait became easier, and my foot was better fixed in the correct position, which gave a feeling of greater correction and stability,” Anna said. “I am very pleased, I recommend them to everyone who is looking for comfort and cares about the health of their feet!”

If you want to give your feet some extra support, consider a pair of these popular insoles. Check out more five-star reviews and order while they’re still discounted.

Looking for shoes that can help with balance and stability? Check out these podiatrists’ picks, courtesy of HuffPost Shopping.

Zappos

Skechers Glide Step shoe (up to 18% off)

Zappos

Skechers Go Walk Arch Fit sneaker (15% off)

Amazon