11 Best Insoles For Hiking In 2024, According To An Expert
Convert any pair of shoes to hiking shoes with insoles that keep you comfortable all day.
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Hiking is one of the most thrilling adventure sports of all time, and without a proper shoe, it’s not easy to get far. While you would want to concentrate on the journey, your shoes should be light, comfortable, and durable to help you enjoy the good parts of the trek. This is why experts and footwear designers emphasize owning the best insoles for hiking, so your feet feel comfortable regardless of the terrain.
Even though boots are what you think of when traveling, getting a little extra cushioning never hurts! A good set of soles will give you the arch support and height to absorb the stress and reduce travel fatigue. Here are 11 insoles with amazing reviews that are crafted with creative expertise specially to make hiking a blissful experience.
In This Article
11 Best Insoles For Hiking That Are Lightweight & Comfortable
1. Best Lightweight:Timberland PRO Men’s Replacement Insole
These hiking insoles are perfect for any trip because they feature an ergonomic design and can be trusted to protect your feet and provide maximum impact absorption with every step. The neutral profile does a great job of adapting to your feet. The soles also offer anti-fatigue support, so you won’t feel tired quickly. They have inverted cone elements that absorb impact, especially around the critical pressure areas of your feet. They are lightweight, and your feet will be pretty comfortable throughout the trail.
- Excellent shock-absorbing feature
- Lightweight
- Natural arch design
- Comfortable
- Sizing may run a little large
Quick tip2. Best Durable:Knixmax Memory Foam Shoe Insoles
These premium soft insoles are great for hiking and running shoes because they have an extra layer of spandex fabric. The soles have a thickness of 0.8 cm, so it is suggested that you choose a size smaller when shopping for these soles. The memory foam insoles for hiking provide all-day comfort and will keep you energized as well. The insoles have a lightweight design and provide sole durability, so you can use them for hours without wearing them out. They are suitable for flat feet and offer great arch support as well.
- Lightweight
- Durable
- Suitable for running and hiking shoes
- Provides good stability
- May not have an odor-fighting capability
Remember
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
This product has garnered over 419 positive reviews on Amazon, and the number continues to grow.
3. Best Odor Control:Sof Sole Insoles Gel Shoe Insert
These are the best hiking boot insoles if you are looking for a pair that provides comfort with less focus on orthotics. They have a full-length and neutral profile, which means they will adapt to most foot types. The insoles have gel padding at the front and heel parts, which provide great support to key pressure areas. The top hydraulic moisture-wicking treatment will keep your feet cool and dry while providing odor control. You can wear these insoles over existing ones to enhance sole durability. However, they will be more comfortable when worn on their own.
- Suitable for most foot types
- Gel pads offer good support
- Odor control
- Keeps feet cool and dry
- It may not be suitable for people recovering from an injury
Pro TipWhy We Think It's Worth Buying
There are more than 8,014 Amazon reviews attesting to the quality of the product and endorsing its value.
4. Best For Even Weight Distribution:Superfeet Unisex High Arch Orthotic Shoe Inserts
These are the perfect hiking insoles for people who have high or weak arches, especially if you put excessive weight on the heel and ball of your feet. The vibrant color and comfortable insoles make them an excellent choice for hiking and trekking. The soles also have excellent arch support, which helps with even weight distribution. These are odor-controlling and also come with deep heel cups, which absorb shock that is caused by impact. Additionally, each sole has a stabilizer cup attached at the base that offers stability and supports the back of your feet. Reviewers have found them suitable for people with high arch feet.
- Excellent support
- Even weight distribution
- Stabilizing insoles
- Odor control
- It may not be durable
5. Best for Heel Alignment:KEEN K-20 Outdoor Plus Shoe Insole
The KEEN K-20 Outdoor Plus Shoe Insole fits the widest range of foot shapes providing support and comfort for your heels. Whether it’s hiking or long trails, the insoles enhance sole durability and are adept at protecting your feet from all inconveniences and preventing minor injuries as well. The material absorbs shock and cushions the entire heel length evenly. The heel cap provides support for the heel’s alignment consistently. Its premium rebound provides good energy return against solid surfaces.
- Shock absorbing
- Protects heel alignment
- Supportive
- Lightweight
- Durable material
- May not prevent odor
6. Best Quality:Polysorb Heavy Duty Shoe Insole
Whether it’s long walks, pressure sore, blister, or just tired feet, these premium Spenco Polysorb Heavy Duty Insoles will support your feet at all times. The insoles provide lasting comfort and cushioning to your heels and absorb targeted shocks to soften the impact on your heels. They are made with polyester in foam form and have a 4-way stretchable fabric that prevents blisters. According to reviews, the polysorb polyurethane foam supports your arch and heels. It is also good at controlling bad foot odor.
- Protects heels and arches
- Good shock absorption
- Durable
- High-quality material
- Prevents foot odor
None
7. Best Comfortable:Hero Comfort And Support
These premium material insoles come with an ultra-thin ergonomic design and an anti-slip textured fabric. These cushioned insoles also have an ergonomic EVA foam base that softens every step, enhances stability and your natural foot motion. In addition, the insoles have unique features in the form of a lightweight, full-length cushion, which comforts the entire foot and absorbs any shock that may affect the critical pressure areas of the feet. They are suitable for hikes, and you can wear them in your daily work boots.
- Lightweight
- Comfortable
- Enhanced cushioning features
- Suitable for daily wear
- It may not be ideal for running
8. Best Suitable For Sneakers:Scholl’s Performance Sized To Fit Insoles
These sized to fit insoles are great for intense outdoor activities like hiking and rock climbing. It comes with ActivPerform technology, which reduces shock impact by 40% and protects your knees and feet. The size-specific arch provides optimal support for your feet and reduces any fatigue by promoting your natural gait. In addition, the insoles have an energy-efficient dual-layer cushioning, which distributes pressure and energy from heel to toe and alleviates any nerve compression. Reviewers with plantar fasciitis confirm that these insoles are very effective.
- Reduces lower back pain
- Suitable for sneakers and rock climbing shoes
- Durable
- Easy to insert
- May have less cushioning around the toes
9. Best For Impact Reduction:EasyFeet Sport Athletic Shoe Insoles
These insoles are specially designed for high-impact activities. They are ideal for hikes where you have to carry a heavy backpack. The firm support and heel cup provide you with stability and rigidity, which will come in handy on uneven surfaces. The arch support sports insoles are flexible, so you can wear them for a long time without feeling any fatigue or pain. The velvet cover is quite breathable and prevents any odor. The insoles do a great job minimizing any pain that can be caused due to arthritis or any sports injuries.
- Suitable for high-intensity outdoor activities
- Impact reduction
- Good cushioning
- Odor control
- Some may find the arch a little high
10. Best Firm Support:Powerstep Journey Hiker Insoles
These insoles are perfect for trekking, especially if you are carrying a heavy backpack. They offer firm support and a heel cup, which provide stability on rigid and uneven surfaces. The extra cushioning offers maximum comfort and flexibility, so you can walk long distances without feeling exhausted. According to many reviews, the insoles also have dual-layer closed-cell foam construction, which is lightweight and exceptionally durable. Also, they have a top antimicrobial layer that absorbs sweat and eliminates odor.
- Firm support
- Impact shock absorption
- Absorbs moisture
- Eliminates odor
- Some may find it narrow at the toe part
11. Best For Plantar Fasciitis:SOLE Active Medium Shoe Insoles
These hiking shoe insoles are 100% synthetic. Podiatrists highly recommend them as they reduce any strain and provide relief to plantar fasciitis pain. They also feature zero drops, deep heel cups, along with dynamic arch supports, so you feel comfortable and stable with every step you take. The insoles are 1.6 millimeters thick and provide maximum cushioning, sole durability, and shock absorption. Additionally, the polygiene coating does a great job at preventing odor and keeping your feet dry.
- Maximum cushioning
- Shock absorbing
- Prevents odor
- Recommended for plantar fasciitis
- Not meant for daily wear or work shoes
Now that you know about the best quality insoles available in the market, you must be aware of some crucial factors that will help you select the perfect pair that suits your personal needs. Again, you can refer to our buying guide to know more!
How To Buy The Best Insoles For Hiking
Types Of Insoles
There are 2 types of insoles
- Comfort Insoles
They are made from foam or gel, and they provide extra comfort under stressful conditions.
- Sport Insoles
If you are looking for more stability and grip, sports insoles are the way to go. They are stiff and mold around your feet to handle uneven surfaces.
How To Choose And Fit The Best Insoles for Hiking?
Hiking shoes will range from average comfort to average foot, so you need to look for insoles that provide control, cushioning, and a neutral structure. Most hiking boots have removable insoles, and you can slip a hiking insole in its place.
How To Use Insoles For Hiking?
Hiking insoles are used for long-distance walking, especially if it is done on uneven terrain. All you have to do is find the right-sized insoles, based on the type of shoes you use, and slip them (over/or in place of) the shoe’s existing sole. They are used to prevent footwear fit issues, heel slippage, low arches, and foot elongation.
What Are The Benefits Of Insoles?
Hiking insoles have a bunch of benefits like:
- Arch support– Your arches are shock absorbers, and if they are weak, you will suffer from issues like plantar fasciitis. Hence, you will need insoles that support your feet and absorb any shock caused by impact.
- Comfort– Insoles provide extra cushioning, and if they have gel pockets, they will keep your feet stable and protected. Look for insoles that have metatarsal support pads and heel cushions for the best experience.
- Reduced fatigue – Outdoor activities can bring about fatigue sooner or later. Hence, you have to purchase good quality insoles that slide into your shoes and distribute weight evenly so that your feet don’t get tired easily and you don’t feel any soreness.
The Bottom Line
Hiking boots are a great investment if you love going out on adventures. However, all of them might not provide the best fit. In addition, some of them will need hiking insoles. Hence, you need to look up the proper insoles that will be light, comfortable, durable, and fit your shoes properly while providing you with the best hiking experience. If you’re seeking enhanced comfort and support with shock-absorbing technology, opt for the Timberland PRO Men’s Replacement Insole and the Sof Sole Insoles Gel Shoe Insert. While the KEEN K-20 Outdoor Plus Shoe Insole provides added stability for outdoor activities and also provides all-day comfort too. Find the best pair that will elevate your trekking experience and keep you comfortable as well.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why Should I Get Hiking Insoles?
Hiking insoles provide extra comfort and reduce the risk of injuries like blisters, aches, and hotspots. It’s also suitable for people who have feet problems like heel slippage, foot elongation, and collapsed arches.
What type of insoles are generally supplied with hiking boots?
High-volume insoles are best suited for high-volume shoes like hiking and running shoes. These insoles work best with high arches.
How long can insoles last?
If you use the insoles frequently, then they can last you a maximum of 6 months. After that, the insoles will start compressing, and you will know that it’s time to replace them.
How do I clean my insoles?
If you have stained or dirty insoles, the best way to clean them and get rid of any odor is to wipe them with warm water, soap, and vinegar. You can also use shoe spray or baking soda to clean dirty insoles.
Are gel insoles good for hiking?
Yes, gel insoles are the best option for hiking. They provide the right amount of support and comfort, especially in super uncomfortable shoes. They are perfect for people who have flat feet and collapsed arches.
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