Top 15 Best Insoles For Hiking In 2023: March Update!

Wearing the right boots is not enough to keep your feet healthy and comfortable throughout your trip. As you need to hike over the toughest terrains under extreme conditions, you may need some extra help from a pair of insoles.

High-quality insoles will not only reduce stress and fatigue but also support your heel and arch, which you really need especially if you are suffering from a foot condition, or plantar fasciitis, for example.

Buying the perfect insoles is not easy as there are so many options on the market. Do not worry; save some time and effort by reading my reviews of top 15 best insoles for hiking below.

The Importance of Insoles When Hiking

There are many reasons why insoles are the must-have items for hiking. Although hiking boots are specifically designed for hiking purposes, they cannot completely protect your feet from injuries.

Especially if your boots are brand-new, your feet will surely be sore without the proper insoles.

In addition, insoles are truly lifesavers if you have some alignment or support issues in your feet. To be specific, they can support or reduce the pain caused by some common foot conditions such as overpronation, supination, plantar fasciitis, bunion, and many more.

Last but not least, a pair of insoles provide a quick solution to some footwear fit issues:

• Foot elongation: As your feet may elongate when you stand up, it may cause unpleasant feelings. Some extra support from insoles can tackle this problem.
• Heel slippage: The insoles can fill up the space and prevent heel slippage – a common cause behind chafing and blisters.

Common Materials of Insoles

The four most common materials of insoles are gel, foam, leather, and cork.

Generally speaking, foam and gel is great for cushioning and pressure relief. Gel works slightly better for shock absorption, while foam wins in terms of support.

Cork is the best bet for support and slight cushion, while few can beat leather regarding the feel, especially when you wear thin socks.

What Are The Best Insoles For Hiking?

Insoles come in all sizes, shapes, and styles. Therefore, it will save much time and effort if you know your needs and preferences before reading my reviews on top 15 best insoles for hiking.

And if you have done your research, scroll down now.

• Best Overall – Dr. Scholl’s Gel Insoles

“Massaging gel technology; maximum extra cushioning; firm columns; great shock absorption; energy rebound; affordable price tag.”

• Best For Everyday Use – Plantar Fasciitis Feet Insoles

“Premium EVA material; semi-rigid support for all arch types; full-length footbed; narrow deep heel cup; great balance and stability; all shoe types fitting.”

• Best For High-intensity Workouts – Powerstep Pinnacle Insoles

“Contoured heel cup; EVA foam and Hypurcel foam; extra cushioning technology; anti-microbial polyester top fabric; full length total support.”

• Best For Heavy Men – Dr. Scholl’s Support Insoles

“Arch guard plus shock guard technology; heavy duty support; even weight distribution; money back guarantee.”

• Best For Pain Relief – PowerStep Pinnacle Plus Insoles

“Built-in metatarsal support; Durable EVA foam base; Variable Cushioning Technology; Great heel and arch pain relief.”

• Best For Plantar Fasciitis – Dr. Scholl’s PlantBax1212ar Fasciitis

“Ample arch support for plantar fasciitis; Contoured heel cup; Shock guard technology; Full-length cushions.”

• Best For Pronation Issues – PowerStep Pinnacle SignatBax1212ure Insoles

“EVA Foam sole; Semi-rigid arch support; Antimicrobial top fabric; Low profile design; Improved natural feet alignment.”

• Best For Odor Control – KEEN Men’s K-20 Insole

“Cleansport NXT odor control dedicated technology; full length shock absorbing material; Improved alignment; High rebound foam; 90-Day Guarantee.”

• Best High-end – Superfeet Unisex Insole

“AEROSPRING Dual Comfort Foam; High volume insoles; Reinforced stabilizer cap; Great support and stability; Easy to trim and slip.”

• Best For General Support – Superfeet Trailblazer Insoles

“Heel Impact Technology POD; Aerospring Ascent dual comfort foam; Long-lasting odor control; Great amount of cushioning; Deep heel cup.”

• Best For Women – Superfeet BERRY Insoles

“Responsive full-length foam; Organic odor-control coating; High-impact foam forefoot; Reinforced stabilizer cap; Durable construction.”

• Best For Sports – Dr. Scholl’s Sport Insoles

“Athlete-tested; Massaging gel technology; Flexible arch shell; Good motion control and  stability; Ideal for many types of sports.”

• Best For Men – Superfeet GREEN Insoles

“High-Density Foam; High-profile design; Stabilizer cap; Rear foot support.”

• Best Budget – Spenco Shoe Insoles

Budget-friendly price; 4-way stretch fabric and Silpure antimicrobial; EVA forefoot cushion; Lightweight polyurethane foam.”

• Dr. Scholl’s Extra Support Insoles

“Massaging gel technology; Reinforced arch support; All-day superior comfort; Money-back guarantee.”

Best Insoles For Hiking Comparison Chart

Take a look at the best insoles for hiking comparison chart to get to know the big picture.

Top 15 Best Insoles For Hiking

Check out the main focus today: my top 15 best insoles for hiking.

Best Overall: Dr. Scholl’s Gel Insoles

Read Full Reviews At Amazon!

The best overall product today is Dr. Scholl’s Gel Insoles. It wins my heart because it is the perfect balance between price and quality.

It is difficult to find insoles offering bouncy gel waves at such an affordable price, but Dr. Scholl’s manages to equip the technology in this model. Pay a few bucks and you can enjoy bouncy foam right under your feet.

That is not to mention the extra cushioning,  which absorbs the shock and enhances overall comfort  so that you can stay energized throughout the day.

To add to the appeal,  this model is able to provide contoured support to overworked arch areas with firm columns. Also you can move at your best without worrying about tired feet  any longer.

Dr. Scholl’s is a famous brand in the industry,  so you can  rest assured about the quality of its products. There are many Dr. Scholl’s insoles on today’s list,  so keep on reading.

Pros

• Affordable price tag
• All-day comfort with soft, bouncy gel waves
• Energy rebound for moving at best
• Good shock absorption
• Fit many types of shoes from work boots to casual shoes
• Easy to use and trim to size

Cons

• Sometimes click when walking

Product Specs

Key Features

• Massaging gel technology
• Extra cushioning
• Great arch support with firm columns

Or you can watch this video for more needed data:

Watch video: Dr. Scholl’s Work Massaging Gel – Best Insoles for Plantar Fasciitis (2020)

Best For Everyday Use: Plantar Fasciitis Feet Insoles

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Getting the right insoles will help you stay comfortable all day long,  for example, the Walk Hero Plantar Fasciitis feet insoles. Apart from plantar fascia, they are also helpful for treating flat feet, bunions, and pronation issues.

This model is widely popular since it can support all arch types and fit into several types of shoes. It makes an equally great choice for athletic, work, or casual purposes.

I would highly recommend it for doctors and nurses who work in the hospital. The cushioning and heel cup will protect your feet and relieve the pain caused by plantar fasciitis.

Nonetheless, as insoles designed for plantar fasciitis, I find their cushioning quite low in the heel area. What’s worse, there are no pads to absorb the shock like other arch support insoles.

Pros

• Durable and high-quality materials
• Great balance and stability
• Fit all arch types and shoes

Cons

• Low cushion in the heel
• Do not let plantar fasciitis hold you back.

Product Specs

Key Features

• Premium EVA material
• Deep heel cup
• Semi-rigid orthotic arch support
• Full-length footbed

Or you can watch this video for more needed data:

Watch video: WalkHero – Best Insoles for Plantar Fasciitis (2020)

Best For High-intensity Workouts: Powerstep Pinnacle Insoles

Read Full Reviews At Amazon!

Are you looking for insoles for high-intensity workouts? Do not skip this Powerstep Pinnacle insole right here. It offers the best combination of cushioning, control as well as support so that you can work out comfortably.

What makes it best for the gym must be the top fabric, which reduces friction and keeps your feet dry when you are performing strenuous activities throughout the day.

For maximum cushioning, the footwear features dual-layer cushioning and a foam base, which are further enhanced by the VCT Variable Cushioning Technology.

The Pinnacle insoles come with a plush top layer, a flexible shell, and most importantly, a deep heel cradle for motion control. You will be perfectly safe from random heel slips if you keep them in your boots.

This product is recommended by podiatrists for many foot conditions such as plantar fasciitis, metatarsal pain, pronation, etc. If you are suffering from one of these conditions, you can consider giving this model a try.

Pros

• Full length total support
• Great amount of cushioning
• Reduce foot pain
• Good motion control

Cons

• Average odor control

Product Specs

Key Features

• Unique contoured stabilizing heel cup
• Soft, EVA foam and Hypurcel foam
• PORON cushioning and VCT Variable Cushioning Technology
• Anti-microbial polyester top fabric

Or you can watch this video for more needed data:

Watch video: Powerstep Pinnacle – Best Insoles for Plantar Fasciitis (2020)

Best For Heavy Men: Dr. Scholl’s Support Insoles

Read Full Reviews At Amaon!

As indicated in the name, this Dr. SchollI is a heavy duty model that supports  heavy men. If you are a man over 200 lb,  these are the insoles you need to reduce back pain and foot fatigue caused by standing for many hours straight.

Thanks to the shock guard technology,  this product can distribute weight evenly across your feet, thereby reducing impact of foot strike. It also means you can enjoy more stability and comfort while walking.

These heavy duty insoles measure over 12 and a half inches long. Do not worry too much about sizing since they can be trimmed to fit your size.

I highly appreciate the fact that Dr. Scholl’s manages to cover these low-priced insoles with a money-back guarantee. If you are not satisfied with the product ( which is unlikely though),  you can always ask for a refund.

Pros

• Heavy duty support for heavy men
• Even weight distribution
• Reduce lower back pain and leg fatigue

Cons

• Not for flat feet  or high arches

Product Specs

Key Features

• Arch guard plus shock guard technology
• Money back guarantee

Or you can watch this video for more needed data:

Watch video: Dr. Squeaks Heavy Duty Support Insoles

Best For Pain Relief: PowerStep Pinnacle Plus Insoles

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This is an upgrade from the Powerstep Pinnacle: the PowerStep Pinnacle Plus. Unlike its sibling that offers general support for workouts, this model is tailored for users who suffer from heel and arch pain.

What sets it apart from the Powerstep Pinnacle is the built-in metatarsal support, which offers spreading and cushioning of metatarsal heads to relieve pain.

In addition, the semi-rigid arch support and heel cradle enhance the overall stability and support for your feet. Coupled with extra padding, the manufacturer wants to ensure that its customers always feel comfortable on their feet.

That is not to mention the top fabric, which reduces heat and friction inside your boots. In other words,  your feet will stay dry and healthy  in the long term.

The only downside here is probably its sky-high price. But if you are going to spend lots of time on your feet, this footwear is definitely worth your investment.

Pros

• Great heel and arch pain relief
• Good support and stability
• Reduce heat and friction

Cons

• High price

Product Specs

Key Features

• Built-in metatarsal support
• Durable EVA foam base and Variable Cushioning Technology
• No trimming required

Or you can watch this video for more needed data:

Watch video: Powerstep Pinnacle Plus SKU: 8966636

Best For Plantar Fasciitis: Dr. Scholl’s Plantar Fasciitis

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As its name already suggests, this Dr. Scholl’s model is specifically designed for those suffering from plantar fasciitis – a common condition that causes intense heel pain.

To be specific, featuring a highly cushioned heel cup and reinforced arch allows the insoles to support and avoid pain in the sensitive heel area. The extra support also offers maximum comfort for runners, athletes in particular and those who spend much time on their feet in general.

Do not worry too much about sizing, as these insoles can be trimmed to fit your feet in any kind of shoe, including boots, flats, and heels. Nonetheless, the high-volume nature and large size make them not suitable for tight-fitting shoes.

Note that these insoles are available in men’s sizes only.

Pros

• Ample arch support for plantar fasciitis
• Shock absorption in the heel area
• Entire foot support

Cons

• Not for tight-fitting shoes

Product Specs

Key Features

• Shock guard technology
• Contoured heel cup
• Full-length insole cushions

Or you can watch this video for more needed data:

Watch video: Save your feet! | Dr.Scholl’s Plantar Fasciitis Insole | Two Minute Review

Best For Pronation Issues: PowerStep Pinnacle Signature Insoles

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There are many insoles for plantar fasciitis,  but how about pronation issues? Check out this Powerstep Pinnacle Signature – a product that handles underpronation and overpronation.

To deal with pronation issues, the Signature product line features a deep heel cup to give you a natural feet alignment.

In other words, instead of placing pressure on some focused areas, the force will be distributed evenly across your feet. In this way, you will be safe from heel pain and plantar fasciitis. Furthermore, the semi-rigid shell is there to provide you with added stability.

I love its low profile design as it takes little room in my shoes. But due to the pronounced arch support, people with low arches  may feel uncomfortable. Also, the Powerstep Pinnacle Signature  is not the best choice for plush comfort.

Pros

• Ideal for pronation issues
• Natural feet alignment  for even force distribution
• Space saving  low profile design

Cons

• Average comfort
• Not ideal for low arches

Product Specs

Key Features

• Anti-microbial EVA Foam sole
• Semi-rigid arch support
• Top fabric

Best For Odor Control: KEEN Men’s K-20 Insole

Read Full Reviews At Amazon!

This product uses a probiotic-based technology to break down the odor in sweat, thereby keeping your hiking shoes from smelling bad. A dedicated technology gives it an edge over its competitors that only rely on the materials to deal with odors.

But odor control is not the only advantage this footwear offers. The manufacturer goes so far to equip it with high rebound foam and shock absorbing material to provide long-lasting comfort.

Meanwhile, the narrow heel cup helps improve natural alignment from heel strike  for better stability. Note that it does not support low arch.

When buying these insoles,  you can benefit from the 90-day guarantee from KEEN.

Pros

• Dedicated odor control technology
• All-day entire foot comfort
• Improved alignment

Cons

• Quite thick for tight fitting shoes

Product Specs

Key Features

• Cleansport NXT odor control technology
• Premium, thick, full length shock absorbing material
• High rebound foam
• 90-Day Guarantee

Or you can watch this video for more needed data:

Watch video: Keen Utility K20 Cushion SKU:8926738

Best High-end: Superfeet Unisex Insole

Read Full Reviews At Amazon!

Do not miss out on this product if you can afford extra. The Superfeet unisex insoles deliver a great performance that will surely not let you down.

The manufacturer maintains the signature Superfeet shape while adding some bouncy foam at the forefoot. The result you get is a pair of insoles that help stabilize your feet,  reduce stress,  and absorb the shock during high impact  activities. What can you ask for more from insoles?

In addition,  it features a stabilizer cap  to provide more stability and structure to the foam layer.

There is not much to complain about but as I said above, this model falls into the high-end price range. It is not suitable for those with a tight budget.

Pros

• Maximum comfort and shock absorption
• Great support and stability
• Reduce stress on your feet
• Easy to trim and slip inside the shoes

Cons

• Sky-high price

Product Specs

Key Features

• AEROSPRING Dual Comfort Foam
• High profile/High volume insoles
• Reinforced stabilizer cap

Or you can watch this video for more needed data:

Watch video: Superfeet Orange Premium Insole

Best For General Support: Superfeet Trailblazer Insoles

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This footwear is not specifically designed for any foot condition but general support instead. It is worth a try if you are looking for something to support your feet as you have to stand for hours.

The deep heel cup makes it ideal for any arch height. No worries whether you have a high or low arch, wearing these insoles can prevent heel slip and reduce fatigue in both cases.

Nonetheless,  the deep heel cup can be irritating if you have too high arches.

The most notable technology here is the Heel Impact, which disperses impact to provide the best amount of padding for your entire foot. Meanwhile, the Aerospring Ascent foam offers more comfort even when you are hiking in the roughest areas.

According to the manufacturer,  these Superfeet insoles can last for up to 500 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first.

Pros

• Ideal for general support
• Minimize fatigue and reduce shifting
• Great amount of cushioning
• Good moisture and odor control

Cons

• Can be irritating for high arches

Product Specs

Key Features

• Heel Impact Technology POD
• Shock-absorbing Aerospring Ascent dual comfort foam
• MOISTUREWICK with long-lasting odor control

Or you can watch this video for more needed data:

Watch video: Superfeet Trail Blazer Insoles – Old vs. New

Best For Women: Superfeet BERRY Insoles

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Pay attention, ladies. The Superfeet Berry insoles are definitely what you are waiting for. They are meant to protect the beautiful feet of all women out there.

It comes with many features to provide all day comfort,  including the deep,  narrow heel cup as well as the  high impact foam forefoot.

The best feature must be the organic coating that can remove odor-causing bacteria.  No worries about sweaty and smelling feet from now on.

These Berry insoles are quite durable. They can retain their original shape for up to a year or 500 miles,  whichever comes first.

Keep in mind that these Superfeet insoles support medium arch and high arch only. You need to look elsewhere if you have a low arch. Also, the medium profile means it can take some space in your shoes.

Pros

• Long lasting comfort
• Great shock absorption for high-impact activities
• Durable construction
• Great odor control

Cons

• Not for low arch

Product Specs

Key Features

• Responsive full-length foam
• High-impact foam forefoot
• Natural, odor-control coating
• Reinforced stabilizer cap

Or you can watch this video for more needed data:

Watch video: Superfeet BERRY Insoles

Best For Sports: Dr. Scholl’s Sport Insoles

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As the name already suggests,  these insoles are designed for people who often play different types of sports and are prone to muscle fatigue in the legs and feet. They snugly fit sneakers, running shoes, court shoes, and cross trainers.

What I love best  about these Sport insoles is the flexible arch shell, which enhances motion control and  side to side stability. These two factors play an important role when participating in any sport.

Like many Dr. Scholl’s products,  this model uses wave cushioning to improve the overall comfort. You will feel like walking on the clouds with the soft and bouncy gel waves under your feet.  Moving around has never been so enjoyable!

If there is anything to complain about, these insoles do not last so long. But in my opinion,  you cannot ask for more from such an affordable price tag.

Pros

• Ideal for many types of sports
• Superior comfort with the soft gel
• Full motion control and  stability

Cons

• Not so durable

Product Specs

Key Features

• Massaging gel technology
• Flexible arch shell
• Athlete-tested

Or you can watch this video for more needed data:

Watch video: Is Dr. Scholl’s Shock Absorption Sport Insoles Worth it?

Best For Men: Superfeet GREEN Insoles

Read Full Reviews At Amazon!

The Superfeet green insoles I am reviewing are one of the best products for men. It can be used for many sports as well as for everyday use while walking, hiking and so on.

They are made up of high density foam and a stabilizer cap. While the closed cell foam provides cushioning for long-lasting comfort, the stabilizer cap is there to support the rear foot and keep the foam layer more stable.

Like many arch support  insoles, this model features a deep heel cup, which translates into great arch support and shock absorption. It is enough for you to handle a heavy backpack,  but I would not recommend it for too rough terrains.

I am satisfied with odor control but there is room for improvement when it comes to breathability. Your feet may feel hot and sweaty, especially if you use these insoles in the summer.

Pros

• Stable and long-lasting
• Rear foot support
• Great arch support and shock absorption

Cons

Product Specs

Key Features

• High-Density Foam
• High-profile, high-volume Superfeet insoles
• Stabilizer cap

Or you can watch this video for more needed data:

Watch video: Superfeet GREEN Premium Insoles Review

Best Budget: Spenco Shoe Insoles

Read Full Reviews At Amazon!

Are you looking for a budget-friendly yet high-quality product? Look no further than the Spenco shoe insoles. They are specially crafted for athletes, but you can also buy them to enjoy additional support and comfort on a budget in day-to-day scenarios.

Made of polyurethane foam, these insoles are lightweight and super-thin to fit in tight-fitting shoes. Also, the 4-way stretch antimicrobial fabric can prevent blisters and control odors at the same time.

There is extra built-in cushioning in the forefoot and heel, which allow the insoles to reduce shock and impact on your feet when running or doing other sports.

On the negative side, this model is not the best choice if you need arch support. The cheap material also makes it prone to wearing out over time.

But in sum, the Spenco insoles deliver a fairly good performance given their prices. It is hard to find a better model in the same price range.

Pros

• Blister prevention and odor control
• Extra cushioning and shock absorption
• Lightweight and super-thin

Cons

• Moderate arch support

Product Specs

Key Features

• 4-way stretch fabric and Silpure antimicrobial
• EVA forefoot cushion
• Lightweight polysorb polyurethane foam
• Spencore heel plug

Or you can watch this video for more needed data:

Watch video: Spenco CrossTrainer Inserts Review

Dr. Scholl’s Extra Support Insoles

Read Full Reviews At Amazon!

This is another excellent pair of insoles for big and tall men to reduce muscle fatigue from work and other activities.

Thanks to the massaging gel technology that offers both cushioning and energy rebound, you can feel comfortable and get more energy to move.

They fit a number of shoes ranging from sneakers, work boots to casual shoes.

As a plus, these insoles are really easy to use. Simply slip them into the shoe to test for size and trim if needed. Make sure to keep the gel side down when inserting the insoles.

Be confident to give these Dr. Scholl’s Extra Support a try since you are covered with a money-back guarantee if you are not satisfied with the product.

Pros

• All-day superior comfort
• Reduce muscle fatigue
• Great ease of use

Cons

• Quite squeaky

Product Specs

Key Features

• Massaging gel technology
• Reinforced arch support
• Money-back guarantee

The Ultimate Guide To Choosing Best Insoles for Hiking In 2023

Price

The very first factor you should consider when buying anything in general and insoles in particular is probably price.

Insoles come in all shapes and sizes, so their prices vary too.

Fitting

Fitting is equally important with shoes and insoles. Just like loose or tight footwear, insoles that fit improperly may make you feel unpleasant rather than comfortable. Therefore, you should check carefully to make sure you are buying the right sizes for your feet and shoes.

If you are in between sizes, it is always advised to go up a size since insoles can be trimmed for a perfect fit.

Deep heel cups

When buying insoles of any price, you should check the heel cradle carefully to know whether they come with deep heel cups or not. This is because the heel cup is the critical factor in determining the overall support you get.

Deep heel cups offer maximum support and enhance motion control, thereby preventing blisters and hotspots from developing.

Types of insoles

Generally speaking, there are two main types of hiking insoles: sport and comfort.

Sport insoles are designed to provide more stability and support for athletic purposes. They are often crafted out of rigid materials that offer a long-lasting service. Pick a pair of sport insoles if you are seeking structural support rather than pure cushioning.

On the other hand, comfort insoles are made of foam or gel and feature extra padding. As the name already suggests, these insoles will provide users with more comfort in strenuous conditions.

Insole volume

The insole volume determines how much space they will take inside your footwear. More importantly, it is correlated to the arch shape that the insoles fit.

• High-volume: Ideal for high arches and high-volume footwear such as hiking boots and running shoes.
• Medium-volume: Ideal for many arch profiles depending on the specific model. Fit average-volume footwear such as casual shoes best.
• Low-volume: Ideal for low and very low arches. Support low-volume shoes such as ski skate boots and cycling shoes.

Frequently Asked Question

Q: How do you choose an insole for hiking?

A: There are many factors that you need to take into account when choosing insoles for hiking boots. I have listed some in the buying guide above, which you can consult to make a well-informed decision.

Q: Can insoles reduce injuries when hiking?

A: Insoles cannot reduce injuries. Instead, they offer you more comfort and stability while reducing rubbing and friction. In that way, high-quality insoles help you prevent foot injuries to enjoy your hiking trip more.

Q: What size insole should I buy?

A: Sizing is not a big issue with insoles since you can always trim them to fit your boots. Therefore, you should go with your current size to save time.

Q: Should I buy insoles that are smaller than my feet?

A: It depends on the boots and how much room you want in your boots. Buying smaller insoles can leave more room for your feet to breathe and stay dry, so it is worth a try.

My Top Pick

My favorite pick today is Dr. Scholl’s Gel Insoles. It offers great value for money by delivering an all-round performance while remaining friendly to my wallet. I really enjoy the gel wave technology as it makes moving and standing on my feet for long hours a breeze. Highly recommend it!

Have you made a decision on what to purchase? Are you looking for insoles to support your arch or just to feel more comfortable? Leave your answers here so that I can reach out and give my advice. And if you have any questions, do not hesitate to ask below. I am always willing to help you out.

Thank you for reading!