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These Are the 6 Best Insoles for Running, According to Experts
A simple way to support your stride.
Whether you’re training for a marathon or just starting your running journey, the right shoe inserts can make a world of difference in how your body feels during and after each run.
“Not everyone needs insoles to run, but almost everyone can benefit from them,” says Alex Tallman, director of retail experience at Fleet Feet. “I’ve seen firsthand how the right support underfoot can dramatically improve comfort and performance—whether you’re just starting, training for a race, or simply looking to stay active.”
Many runners use insoles to address arch pain, plantar fasciitis, or overall foot fatigue. However, even if you're fortunate enough not to experience those specific concerns, you can find that insoles help optimize alignment, reduce joint strain, and enhance overall efficiency.
We broke down the best insoles for runners, what you should consider before shopping, and the benefits of wearing an insole catered to runners.
The best insoles for running, at a glance:
- Best all around: Superfeet Run Pain Relief — $65
- Best value: Dr. Scholl’s Run Active Comfort Insoles — $17
- Best cushioning: Spenco Insoles Polysorb Cross Trainer — $28
- Best for high arches: SuperFeet Run Support High Arch — $60
- Best for low arches: Currex RunPro - Low Profile — $55
- Best for plantar fasciitis: PowerStep Original Insoles — $40
Best all around: Superfeet Run Pain Relief
$65
Designed to alleviate common foot ailments such as plantar fasciitis, heel pain, and arch discomfort, these insoles feature a deep, reinforced heel cup that cradles the heel to absorb impact and reduce stress on the feet, ankles, knees, and back. They also promote better alignment and posture, thanks to a medium to high arch orthotic. There's also a removable heel stabilizer for personalized support. Crafted with durable materials with moisture-wicking properties to control odor, these insoles maintain their shape and effectiveness for up to 12 months or 500 miles, whichever comes first.
Best Value: Dr. Scholl’s Run Active Comfort Insoles
$17
For affordable, supportive insoles, check out Dr. Scholl’s. Their Run Active insoles feature a unique 3-zone heel-to-toe design that includes a deep heel cup for shock absorption, reinforced arch support to enhance weight transition, and ball-of-foot padding to improve push-off efficiency. This considerate construction helps alleviate common running-related pains such as runner’s knee, shin splints, and plantar fasciitis, enabling you to stay active longer. The Polygiene StayFresh technology neutralizes odors, ensuring your insoles remain fresh throughout your runs. With their trim-to-fit design, they seamlessly integrate into most running shoes, providing personalized comfort.
Best Cushioning: Spenco Insoles Polysorb Cross Trainer
$28
Designed with a combination of SpenCore material and PolySorb polyurethane foam, these insoles provide exceptional shock absorption and energy return, reducing the impact on joints and muscles during high-impact activities. The deep heel cup and forefoot crash pad improve stability and comfort, while the 4-way stretch fabric with antimicrobial technology helps prevent blisters and odors. For long runs, races, or small jogs, these high-rated insoles will improve performance and comfort.
Best for high arches: SuperFeet Run Support High Arch
$60
Runners with high arches know they require a bit more care and consideration when selecting footwear. Superfeet's Run Support High Arch Insoles offer support, cushioning, and durability tailored to their needs. The high arch shape stabilizes the foot, reducing stress on the feet, ankles, knees, and back during runs. A deep heel cup optimizes natural shock absorption, minimizing fatigue over long distances. The dual-layer foam provides responsive cushioning, while the carbon fiber stabilizer cap ensures lightweight, durable support. Additionally, the top cover helps reduce odors, keeping feet fresh throughout runs.
Best for Low Arches: Currex RunPro
$55
With an almost sock liner-like feel of tailored support, this pair is designed specifically for low arches to enhance stability. They feature a dynamic arch cradle that offers flexible support, reducing strain and promoting a more efficient stride. The deep decoupled heel cup provides a secure fit, minimizing unwanted movement. For short runs or long distances, this lightweight, cushioned option will help prevent your legs from growing tired and absorb shock, keeping your feet comfortable.
Best for plantar fasciitis: PowerStep Original Insoles
$40
Anyone who has ever suffered from plantar fasciitis knows how it's not only painful but also alters your workout routine. PowerStep Original Insoles offers a mix of support, cushioning, and motion control to alleviate heel and arch pain. Designed with a semi-rigid arch support shell, these insoles provide neutral arch support that helps stabilize the foot and reduce excessive pronation, a common contributor to plantar fasciitis. The dual-layer cushioning—featuring a foam top layer — minimizes impact on the heel and promotes comfort during runs. Additionally, the deep heel cradle enhances stability and motion control, further reducing stress on the plantar fascia.
Benefits of insoles for running
Alleviate pain and prevent injuries: “Insoles provide additional support, which can reduce stress on your feet and everything up the chain," says Tallmann. He shares that not only can they prevent injuries, but they also support recovery.
Shock Absorption and Cushioning: Quality insoles provide extra padding to absorb the repetitive impact of running, reducing the risk of common injuries such as shin splints, plantar fasciitis, and stress fractures.
Improved Comfort and Fit: Insoles can fill gaps in your shoes for a more secure, personalized fit, preventing foot slippage and blisters. By adding an insole to your sneaker, you can have longer, more enjoyable runs.
What to consider when buying insoles for running
Shoe size: Most insoles are easy to customize, are offered in a range of sizes, and can be cut to fit your running shoe. Tallman suggests how to get the best fit: “Remove the sock liner (thin foam layer you’ll find inside most running shoes), trace it on the back of the insole, trim along the outline, and slide the insole into the shoe in place of the sock liner," he says. “Since you’re replacing rather than adding, it shouldn’t impact the overall fit of the shoe. As a general rule, insoles should feel like a whisper, not a shout.”
Arch heights: Tallman suggests this is the most important when choosing an insole. If you aren’t sure whether you have a high arch or flat try the “wet towel test" (checking your footprint on a floor mat after a shower) or visit Fleet Feet, which uses fit id, a 3D foot scanning and dynamic pressure mapping technology, to determine arch height and flexibility with much greater precision.
Activity: Some insoles cater to different activities, so make sure when you shop, you are choosing the right style. Dressy, everyday, and walking may not give you the right support for running and vice versa.
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