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From running a marathon to running errands, these inserts keep you supported.

Whether you are an avid runner or are just always on the run, shoe inserts are a great way to take any shoe up a notch and make it not only more comfortable, but help keep you in alignment when your feet get fatigued. Although most people seek out insoles when they have pain in their heels, arches, or shins, investing in a pair before you feel discomfort can help to prevent any injury and keep you in proper alignment during any activity. With arch heights ranging from no arch to high arch, and cushion levels from low cushion to max cushion, it can be difficult to pick out which insole will be the best for you. To help you choose, check out our buying guide and in depth reviews of each product below.

If you are wondering whether or not to purchase a shoe insert, chances are it will only be a positive result. The main point of an insert–also called insoles–is to provide more cushion and support than most shoes provide. Since they come in different cushion and arch levels, this also means that you can use them to personalize the fit of your shoes to make them just right for you. Most inserts are made to correct some sort of improper foot movement—namely overpronation, where the arch falls inward—but if you have more of a neutral gait with high arches that do not fall, you may benefit more from a strictly cushioned insole than a rigid, high arched one.

To find the best options among the many insoles out there, we researched the most popular models available. We found a lot of guidance in our own extensive research on the best shoe inserts for running. We also looked at reviews from trusted sources like The New York Times. We then took into account price, materials, durability, Finally, we consulted more than 45,000 reviews, written by people who’ve bought these models on sites like Amazon and Walmart, to settle on these nine.

Key Specs: • Arch: High  • Cushion Level: Medium 

The green Superfeet are some of the most popular insoles out there. They are high support and have a high arch profile, but they are relatively thin and lightweight considering. It uses a medium stiff foam, which means that it won't squish down like a memory foam, and can hold up a bit better over time. Plus it can be a great option for the big-and-tall community, since the sturdy plastic heel cup retains its shape over time. 

Key Specs: • Arch: None • Cushion Level: High

If you have a lower arch or are looking simply for a bit more cushion, these Spencos could fit the bill. They are soft, plush memory foam, which gives a layer of added squishiness without effecting your footfall at all. These are made primarily for comfort, but they can also help to elongate the life of a dying shoe. Plus they are affordable, and since there are no rigid areas, they tend to feel good for just about everyone. 

Key Specs: • Arch: Medium  • Cushion Level: Medium 

These insoles were designed with runners in mind. They are lightweight, ventilated, and have cushion where you need it most— in the ball and heel of the feet. The majority of the insole is made from a very flexible material, so it won't inhibit your natural foot motion, but it does have a slightly shaped arch that will give you support when you start to fatigue. 

Key Specs: • Arch: Low  • Cushion Level: High

Just like for running, there are insoles designed especially for hiking. With light breathable foam and cushion where you need it, these can help make day hikes to thru-hikes easier on your feet. The heel pod offers some extra cushion on tough descents, and the Aerospring foam helps to reduce fatigue on long hikes. Since there is a range of shoe sizes that work for each insole size, you can trim them to get the ideal fit for your foot. 

Key Specs: • Arch: Medium  • Cushion Level: Medium 

Whether you walk to work or are constantly doing laps around the office, these insoles will help keep you comfortable and supported in your dress shoes. This is more of a 3/4 design, so it won't go to the end of your shoe, but that also makes it easier to interchange between different shoes and not worry about whether it will fit. It uses a structured heel cup, stiff arch, and forefoot cushioning to help keep you comfortable and aligned even after a long, hard day. 

Key Specs: • Arch: Medium  • Cushion Level: High

Gender-specific products have a reputation of being ridiculous, but this one actually holds some weight. These Berry Superfeet are designed with a narrower heel cup and slightly softer foam, which accounts for women's generally slimmer feet and lighter weight. While this won't work for everyone, it is a great option for those that wear a B width or under, and are looking for a softer, plusher feel. These work great for walking, running, and general working out.  

Key Specs: • Arch: Low  • Cushion Level: High 

If you are a heavy cross-trainer—whether that be through CrossFit, weight lifting, or Zumba class, you want an insole that can keep up with you and won't hold you back. This insole is super flexible, which makes it a great choice for lateral movement. It has extra cushioning in the heel and forefoot, and the arch is made from a stiffer foam that provides some support without being too hard. 

Key Specs: • Arch: Low  • Cushion Level: Medium 

Powerstep insoles are a go-to for those that suffer from Plantar Fasciitis as the provide great support without being rock-hard and uncomfortable. The rigid arch is sandwiched between a top layer of foam and a bottom layer of EVA foam. This helps to keep it cushioned while still providing the stiffness and arch rigidity that plantar issues need. 

Key Specs: • Arch: Low or high  • Cushion Level: Medium 

If you aren't sure what arch height you need, an adjustable option might be a good way to go. These allow you to create either a low or high arch height by inserting pads underneath the insert, giving you much more freedom than a typical insole. They also have a 30-day guarantee, which allows you to get a full refund if they do not work out for you after 30 days.