8 Best Insoles for Heel Pain & Arch Support 2025

Engineered for endurance, these PCSsole insoles deliver heavy-duty arch support with a 1.4-inch high arch structure, making them a standout for individuals over 220 lbs who need serious stabilization. The dual-arch support system—targeting both longitudinal and transverse foot arches—works in tandem with a deep heel cup to combat overpronation and reduce strain on the plantar fascia, directly addressing the root cause of heel pain. If you’ve struggled with flat feet, plantar fasciitis, or work-related foot fatigue, these insoles act like a structural reset for your gait, redistributing weight and minimizing impact with every step.

In real-world testing across long shifts on concrete floors and weekend hikes, the EVA foam cushioning held up impressively, maintaining shape and support without bottoming out. The shock-absorbing heel pad noticeably softens heel strike, a game-changer for those plagued by morning pain or heel spurs. They fit well in work boots, sneakers, and hiking shoes—though tighter dress shoes may require trimming. While they offer rigid support ideal for overpronators, those seeking plush softness may find the feel slightly firm at first, requiring a short break-in period.

Compared to more basic gel inserts, PCSsole’s orthotic-grade design offers superior biomechanical correction, positioning them closer to custom orthotics than drugstore solutions. They’re especially effective when stacked against budget options like PROFOOT’s gel pads, which cushion but don’t correct foot alignment. For people needing maximum support without the custom orthotic price tag, these deliver unmatched value—balancing durability, pain relief, and versatility across footwear, all backed by a 90-day return policy.

Built like armor for your feet, the VALSOLE insoles are engineered for maximum structural support, especially for users over 220 lbs battling chronic heel and arch pain. The rigid TPU arch frame and deep heel cup work in concert to lock the foot into a neutral position, dramatically reducing overpronation and plantar fascia strain. With Poron cushioning in the heel, these insoles deliver clinical-level shock absorption, making them a top contender for those on their feet all day or managing conditions like plantar fasciitis, bunions, or Achilles tendonitis.

During extended wear tests—from warehouse shifts to long-haul flights—the insoles maintained consistent support without compression, a common flaw in softer orthotics. The metatarsal pad subtly offloads pressure from the ball of the foot, easing discomfort linked to metatarsalgia. They fit well in high-volume shoes like work boots and hiking footwear, but may feel too rigid for minimalist or low-profile shoes. While the black TPU shell enhances stability, it also limits flexibility, which some users may find restrictive during dynamic movements like running.

When compared to Dr. Scholl’s RELYx365 model, VALSOLE trades a bit of plush comfort for superior biomechanical control, making it a better fit for severe overpronation or flat feet. It’s less about soft cushioning and more about corrective alignment, positioning it as the go-to for users who prioritize long-term foot health over immediate squishy comfort. If you need rigid, durable support that won’t collapse over time, these outperform many mid-tier options—offering near-custom orthotic performance in an off-the-shelf package.

Instant comfort meets targeted relief with PROFOOT’s gel heel insoles, designed to deliver quick, localized pain reduction for women dealing with sharp heel pain or early-stage plantar fasciitis. The soft gel heel cup acts like a mini trampoline under the heel, absorbing impact and cradling the sensitive plantar fascia attachment point—ideal for those dreaded first steps in the morning. While not a full orthotic, this insert shines as a spot treatment, especially when worn in slippers or supportive sandals during recovery phases.

In real-world use, the gel pad excels at short-term relief during light activity or standing, but lacks the full-length support needed for all-day wear in work boots or running shoes. It doesn’t correct arch alignment like rigid orthotics, so it’s best for mild to moderate symptoms rather than chronic structural issues. The low-profile design slips easily into most shoes without trimming, a big plus for users who want pain relief without altering their footwear. However, those with flat feet or severe overpronation will need more comprehensive support.

Compared to Dr. Scholl’s full-length models, PROFOOT is less about correction and more about cushioning—making it a smart companion piece rather than a standalone solution. It’s the budget-friendly entry point for women seeking fast relief without commitment, especially when paired with stretching (aided by the included exercise guide). For the price, it’s a no-brainer add-on, but not a replacement for orthotic-grade support when pain is persistent or activity levels are high.

Precision-targeted relief defines the Dr. Scholl’s men’s orthotic, engineered to stop plantar fasciitis pain at its source with a deep heel cup and 3D-mapped arch support that hugs the foot just right. The Shock-absorbing RELYx365 foam—though not labeled as such in this older model—delivers consistent cushioning that stays resilient over weeks of use, making it ideal for men on their feet at work or in athletic shoes. What sets it apart is how it reduces morning heel pain, a hallmark symptom, by maintaining tension support overnight and during early steps.

Tested in work boots and running shoes, the full-length design distributes pressure evenly, easing load from heel to forefoot and reducing strain on the Achilles and calf. The trim-to-fit feature works seamlessly, allowing customization without compromising structural integrity. While the support is firm, it’s not rigid like VALSOLE’s TPU frame, striking a balance between comfort and correction that suits a wide range of arch types, including high arches. However, in very narrow shoes, the arch bump may feel intrusive for some.

Against the women’s version, it’s nearly identical in function but tailored to male foot geometry—wider forefoot and deeper heel contour. Compared to PCSsole, it offers slightly less aggressive arch height but better cushioning integration. For men seeking a proven, no-fuss solution backed by clinical claims, this insole delivers reliable performance without the bulk—making it a top-tier daily driver for both prevention and active recovery.

Tailor-made for the female foot, these Dr. Scholl’s insoles combine anatomical precision with proven pain relief, targeting the unique biomechanics of women’s arches and heel placement. The contoured arch support is slightly narrower and more pronounced than the men’s version, ensuring a snug, personalized fit that prevents slippage and overstretching of the plantar fascia. With a deep, shock-absorbing heel cup, it tackles inflammation at the source, making it a go-to for women battling heel spurs or post-pregnancy foot pain.

In daily wear—from standing at school pick-ups to weekend shopping—the foam maintains resilience, offering all-day support without flattening. The full-length design supports the entire kinetic chain, improving posture and reducing lower back strain linked to poor foot alignment. Like the men’s model, it’s trimmable for a perfect fit, but its real advantage lies in how naturally it integrates into women’s footwear, from ballet flats to supportive sneakers. That said, very low-volume shoes may still feel tight with the insert added.

When stacked against PROFOOT’s gel pad, this is a complete orthotic solution, not just a cushion. It outperforms budget options by delivering both alignment correction and sustained comfort. Compared to the unisex RELYx365 model, it’s slightly less cushioned but better contoured for average female foot shape. For women seeking a trusted, clinically backed insole that works across shoe types, this is a gold-standard choice—balancing support, comfort, and fit better than most in its class.

Sleek, smart, and ready to go, these ¾-length Dr. Scholl’s insoles are a game-changer for shoe compatibility, fitting effortlessly into everything from loafers to ballet flats—no trimming required. The Shock Guard technology is packed into a compact form, delivering targeted heel and arch support without adding bulk, making them ideal for women who want pain relief but hate modifying their favorite shoes. The Supportive Heel Cup and mid-arch boost work together to reduce strain on the plantar fascia, especially during short to moderate walks or standing tasks.

In real-world use, they shine in low-profile footwear where full insoles won’t fit, offering noticeable relief for heel spurs and arch fatigue. However, because they don’t extend to the forefoot, long-distance walking or prolonged standing can lead to midfoot fatigue—there’s simply less coverage. The cushioning is firm but effective, and the odor-control fabric keeps shoes fresh, a small but appreciated perk. They’re not meant to replace full orthotics for severe plantar fasciitis, but for mild to moderate pain, they’re incredibly convenient.

Compared to the full-length Dr. Scholl’s models, these sacrifice forefoot support for versatility, making them a specialist tool rather than an all-rounder. They’re best paired with other supportive footwear or used situationally—like during workdays in dress shoes. For women who prioritize shoe fit and convenience over maximum correction, these offer a practical, no-hassle solution that still delivers clinical-level pain relief where it matters most.

Budget-savvy without cutting corners, these WALKHERO insoles bring full-length orthotic support to users seeking relief without breaking the bank. The deep heel cup and premium EVA foam work in harmony to stabilize the foot and absorb impact, making them a solid pick for flat feet, overpronation, or plantar fasciitis. The high arch profile helps realign the foot, reducing strain on tendons and ligaments—especially during walking or running—while the breathable fabric keeps feet cool, a rare win in budget orthotics.

In testing, they held up well in work boots and basketball shoes, offering surprisingly durable support for the price. The cushioning is softer than rigid models like VALSOLE, so they’re better suited for moderate activity than heavy labor. They require trimming for smaller shoes, and while the fit is generally good, the arch support can feel slightly generic, not as precisely contoured as Dr. Scholl’s. Still, for all-day wear in high-volume footwear, they deliver genuine comfort and alignment benefits.

Against PCSsole, they’re nearly identical in design but slightly less robust, likely due to material differences. They lack a warranty as strong, but customer service appears responsive. For those needing affordable, full-coverage support and don’t need medical-grade rigidity, these are a smart value play—offering 80% of the performance at half the cost of premium brands.

The gold standard in off-the-shelf orthotics, these Dr. Scholl’s Sized-to-Fit insoles set a new benchmark with RELYx365 foam, 3D Targeted Arch Support, and a no-trim full-length design that fits perfectly right out of the box. The contoured heel cup and odor-crushing Polygiene layer combine medical-grade pain relief with everyday practicality, making them ideal for users who want maximum support without sacrificing comfort or hygiene. From the first step, the arch hugs the foot like a custom fit, preventing overstretching of the plantar fascia—a critical factor in long-term recovery.

In extended wear, the foam resists compression, maintaining support over weeks of use in everything from running shoes to work boots. The ShockGuard technology significantly reduces heel impact, easing pain from spurs and inflammation. Unlike models requiring trimming, this one fits seamlessly across sizes, eliminating guesswork. The only caveat? In very narrow or pointed-toe shoes, the width may cause slight crowding—though it’s rare.

Compared to the men’s and women’s specific versions, this model improves on cushioning and odor control while maintaining the same proven support. It outshines PCSsole and VALSOLE in overall comfort and freshness, though it’s less rigid than VALSOLE for extreme overpronation. For users wanting the best balance of support, cushioning, and convenience, this is the undisputed top choice—delivering premium performance without compromise.