8 Top-Rated Plantar Fasciitis Shoe Inserts for Running 2026

Engineered for relentless runners, the Powerstep Pulse Maxx doesn’t just cushion—it commands your foot into alignment with rigid shell support and an angled heel cup that actively corrects overpronation. This isn’t passive comfort; it’s dynamic motion control that combats plantar fasciitis at its root by stabilizing the subtalar joint and reducing strain on the plantar fascia. With dual-layer cushioning and a full-length design, it delivers maximum support without sacrificing flexibility, making it a go-to for athletes who refuse to let foot pain dictate their pace.

In real-world testing across long-distance runs and trail sprints, the Pulse Maxx excelled on impact absorption—its structured EVA foam handling repeated heel strikes with minimal compression. The deep heel cradle locked the foot in place, reducing slippage and fatigue during high-mileage sessions. While it fits snugly in most running shoes without trimming, it’s best suited for medium to high-volume footwear; tighter performance flats may feel cramped. It performs exceptionally on hard pavement and treadmills but offers less rebound energy than ultra-responsive racing insoles.

Compared to the softer FEELLIFE gel inserts, the Pulse Maxx takes a more clinical, podiatrist-backed approach—prioritizing correction over plushness. It’s not as bouncy as some athletic-focused models like GoSkala, but its rigid stability outshines comfort-first designs when biomechanical issues are at play. Ideal for runners with overpronation, flat feet, or chronic heel pain, it bridges medical-grade support with sport-ready durability. It offers more structured control than Dr. Scholl’s, but with less rebound than high-performance PORON-laden competitors.

Unbeatable value meets everyday resilience in the riemot Fitness Running Insoles—a budget powerhouse that punches far above its price tag. Don’t let the low cost fool you: these inserts pack lightweight PU foam cushioning and a moisture-wicking mesh top that keeps feet cool during long walks or gym sessions. Designed for moderate arch support, they tackle overpronation and heel pain with a contoured heel cup that guides foot alignment, making them a smart pick for casual runners or those on their feet all day.

During testing, the riemots proved surprisingly durable over weeks of daily use in running shoes and hiking boots. The foam retained shape better than expected, absorbing shock on concrete and gravel with decent efficiency. While not as rigid as orthotic-grade insoles, the moderate arch support helped ease early-stage plantar fasciitis discomfort. They’re trim-to-fit, allowing customization across shoe types, but the foam can compress faster under heavy loads or for users over 200 lbs, leading to diminished support after extended use.

When stacked against the premium Superfeet Run, the riemot lacks the same deep structural reinforcement, but it outperforms many sub-$15 inserts in breathability and fit versatility. It’s no match for high-impact athletic demands like GoSkala or Powerstep Pulse Maxx, but for walkers, light joggers, or standing workers, it offers a practical, no-frills solution. It delivers more cushioning than basic drugstore insoles while staying accessible to first-time users wary of rigid orthotics.

Drugstore hero with smart engineering, Dr. Scholl’s Plantar Fasciitis Insoles bring medical-inspired relief to budget-conscious users without looking or feeling like medical devices. The 3D Targeted Arch Support delivers a noticeable lift under the medial arch, preventing the plantar fascia from overstretching with every step. Paired with RELYx365 foam and a ShockGuard heel cup, it absorbs impact effectively—making standing on hard floors or walking through airports far more bearable.

Real-world use shows these inserts shine in casual and walking shoes, where their slim profile fits seamlessly without crowding the toe box. The sized-to-fit design eliminates guesswork—no trimming needed—and the Polygiene odor control keeps them fresher longer, even after sweaty commutes. However, they’re not built for high-impact activities: during running tests, the cushioning bottomed out quickly, offering minimal rebound and stability compared to athletic-specific models.

Next to the Superfeet Run or Powerstep Pulse Maxx, these lack rigid biomechanical control, but they outperform generic insoles in structured support. They’re ideal for mild plantar fasciitis, heel spurs, or all-day comfort seekers who prioritize convenience over correction. For occasional use or early-stage pain, they offer better alignment and cushioning than most budget picks, though serious runners should look elsewhere.

Built for the grind, GoSkala Plantar Fasciitis Insoles merge athletic aggression with orthotic intelligence, making them a standout for runners, basketball players, and cross-trainers who need both speed and support. At the core is USA-sourced PORON foam layered with EVA, delivering dual cushioning with explosive energy return—a rare combo that keeps feet springy mile after mile. The 3D support design cradles the forefoot, arch, and heel in harmony, redistributing pressure to prevent hotspots and overuse injuries.

On-court sprints and 5K runs confirmed its excellent shock absorption and midfoot stability. The deep U-shaped heel cup locks the calcaneus in place, minimizing lateral roll during cuts or landings. Breathable, slip-resistant fabric wicks sweat fast, and the insole holds its shape even after intense sessions. While it fits most athletic shoes, ultra-narrow racing flats may require trimming, and heavier users (over 220 lbs) might want the even stiffer VALSOLE for maximum load-bearing.

Compared to the FEELLIFE gel model, GoSkala trades some plushness for superior responsiveness and durability. Against Powerstep Pulse Maxx, it offers better energy return but slightly less rigid control. It’s the best blend of performance and pain relief in the lineup—perfect for athletes who refuse to let foot issues sideline them. It delivers more athletic rebound than Dr. Scholl’s while staying more accessible than Superfeet’s pro-grade pricing.

Plush protection meets targeted relief, FEELLIFE inserts wrap your feet in a hybrid TPU and gel support system that feels like a bodyguard for your heels. The widest and deepest heel cradle in the lineup provides exceptional impact protection—ideal for runners pounding pavement or standing on concrete all day. With adjustable sizing and gel-infused cushioning, these inserts mold to your stride while delivering serious shock absorption exactly where plantar fasciitis flares up.

In real-world trials, the gel layer soaked up jarring impacts during long runs and lunchtime walks, reducing post-activity soreness. The TPU stabilizer adds rearfoot control, preventing excessive rolling without feeling restrictive. While not as rigid as Superfeet or Powerstep, the soft-adjustable design makes it a top pick for newcomers to orthotics or those with sensitive feet. However, the gel can feel slightly sluggish during fast transitions, and the foam layer may degrade faster under heavy loads.

Next to GoSkala, FEELLIFE prioritizes cushion-first comfort over athletic rebound, making it better for recovery runs or standing jobs than sprint drills. Compared to riemot, it offers deeper heel support and better durability. It’s the gold standard for gel-based relief, ideal for runners with acute heel pain or post-injury rehab needs. It delivers softer landings than Powerstep, though with less motion control.

The orthotic gold standard, Superfeet Run Pain Relief Insoles bring clinical-grade support to elite performance, blending a carbon-fiber-infused stabilizer cap with dual-layer foam for a ride that’s firm, responsive, and fatigue-defying. With high arch support that doesn’t flatten, these insoles actively correct overpronation and stabilize the rearfoot—making them a top prescription alternative for runners with chronic plantar fasciitis or flat feet.

Field-tested across marathons and trail runs, the EVOLyte foam springs back relentlessly, maintaining support even after 100+ miles. The moisture-wicking cover fights odor, and the trim-to-fit design ensures a perfect match in any shoe, from stability trainers to hiking boots. While the firm underfoot feel demands a break-in period, the payoff is unmatched biomechanical alignment. It struggles slightly in ultra-flexible minimalist shoes but dominates in structured athletic footwear.

Against Powerstep Pulse Maxx, Superfeet offers more responsive rebound and better heat management; versus GoSkala, it trades some bounce for superior long-term structural integrity. It’s the best all-around performer—ideal for serious runners, overpronators, and anyone needing medical-level correction without sacrificing speed. It delivers more professional support than FEELLIFE, with better durability than budget models.

Engineered for endurance under extreme load, VALSOLE Heavy Duty Insoles are the unsung heroes for larger athletes and on-your-feet workers who need support that won’t quit. With a black TPU arch shell and PORON heel pad, these orthotics deliver industrial-strength shock absorption, cutting impact forces that aggravate plantar fasciitis under heavy body weight. The deep heel cup and metatarsal pad align the foot vertically, reducing strain on joints and lower back.

Real-world testing with users over 220 lbs confirmed minimal compression after full-shift wear in work boots and running shoes. The rigid arch support effectively curbs overpronation, while the trim-to-fit design adapts to wide and high-volume footwear. Though not as bouncy as GoSkala or Superfeet, its unyielding structure prevents collapse, making it ideal for warehouse floors or long hauls. It’s less breathable than mesh-top models, and the firmness may overwhelm new orthotic users.

Compared to Powerstep Pulse Maxx, VALSOLE offers greater load tolerance and deeper heel support, but with less cushioning finesse. Against Dr. Scholl’s, it’s in a different league—built for punishment, not convenience. It’s the best choice for high-weight users or industrial work, delivering more structural integrity than riemot while staying more affordable than Superfeet.

Silent champions of the standing shift, EASYFEET Black insoles deliver all-day endurance with a 46% shock absorption ratio—a game-changer for nurses, chefs, and retail workers battling foot fatigue. The anatomically shaped arch support aligns the foot naturally, while PORON-like heel pads and energy-return foam keep legs fresh after 12-hour shifts. With over 62% energy return, they bounce back with every step, reducing cumulative strain.

In real use, these insoles excelled in work boots and casual sneakers, providing stable, fatigue-resistant support without overheating. The breathable top fabric wicks moisture well, and the full-length design ensures consistent support from heel to toe. While not designed for sprinting, they handle light jogging and walking with ease. They’re less dynamic than GoSkala on the track but outlast most insoles in daily grind scenarios.

Compared to Dr. Scholl’s, EASYFEET offers deeper medical-grade support and superior durability; against riemot, it delivers more structure and rebound. It’s the best for professionals on their feet, blending orthotic precision with industrial resilience. It provides better long-term comfort than FEELLIFE for static standing, though with less gel plushness.