Step one for going on a lovely walk is to buy a sturdy (and good-looking) pair of walking shoes. However, the choice of a good pair of insoles is almost as important. Experienced walkers know that you can enjoy many years of walking comfort with the right insoles. Comfort, shock-absorption and stability ensure that you tackle a challenging walk in the right way. Are you experiencing instability, or suffering with (lower) back pain, knee, hip or foot problems? Insoles could offer an excellent solution. Just like shoes and socks, there are various types of insole. To keep things simple, we’ll divide them into three groups:
Standard insoles
These insoles come as standard when you buy your walking shoes. They often provide adequate comfort but are not corrective. If you are happy with the soles, don’t forget to replace them on a regular basis. The soles will become hard after a while and will then need replacing.
Orthopaedic insoles
A podiatrist makes these soles especially for you. Often, the soles are used in ordinary shoes and don’t always fit into walking shoes. Walking shoes are often a size bigger and you’ll have to make sure that the insole isn’t too thick, too small or too big and fits into the shoe properly. Try on different walking shoes from different brands so that your sole fits perfectly.
Stabilising insoles
These are ‘standard’ insoles that place your feet in a neutral position. They don’t over-correct and allow your foot to roll naturally. They offer greater shock-absorption in your joints and provide just that bit more than standard insoles. These soles are a perfect alternative if you don’t have any issues with your feet and don’t need to see a podiatrist but want to be super-comfortable all the same.
More specialised stores will be able to help you. Using the various technologies, they can measure the size of your foot and establish your foot-type. On this basis, they will provide you with perfect, stabilising insoles.
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