Timberland Mens Leather Earthkeeper Waterproof ShoesThe 9 Best Shoe Inserts for Running—and Just an All-Around Better Platform

The Green Superfeet is one of the most popular insoles out there for a reason. It offers a lot of support for feet with high arches, but it’s relatively thin and lightweight, sabatilles a boost of stability without taking up too much room in your shoes.

The medium stiff foam won’t squish down like a memory foam, holding up a bit better over time. Plus, this can be a great option for the big-and-tall community, since the sturdy plastic heel cup retains its shape.

We’re generally skeptical of gender-specific products, but the difference in this case could be meaningful—the Berry Superfeet is designed to have a narrower heel cup and slightly softer foam, which accounts for women’s generally slimmer feet and lighter weight. While this won’t work for everyone, it is a great option for those who wear a B width or thinner and are looking for a softer, plusher feel. The Berry works great for walking, running, and working out in general, and has a reputation for durability. A pair is a bit pricey but reliably comfortable.

The recently updated Run Active insole from Dr. Scholl’s offers a lot for relatively little investment. The cushioning is outstanding, absorbing plenty of shock. The neutral support is good for most arches. The recent addition of odor prevention is a nice touch, effectively keeping some of the shoe funk down.

It also has a nicely snug heel cup, which adds a healthy dose of stability. The extra cushioning can make things a bit tight depending on your shoes, but this is hard to beat for a quality, low-cost insert.

Enertor’s running-specific insole is very well thought out. On one hand, the shock absorption of the PX1 material is outstanding, but at the same time, the insert is surprisingly lightweight and thin for having such good cushioning.

The neutral arch support is plenty stable and will accommodate most arch heights. It even delivers good energy return from toe to heel to put a bit of extra oomph in your step. Enertor is based in the UK, so the overseas shipping isn’t ideal. But when all is said and done, this is a superior running insole.

Just like for running, there are insoles designed especially for hiking. With light, breathable foam and cushioning where you need it, this one from Superfeet can help make day hikes to thru-hikes easier on your dogs. The heel pod offers some extra cushion on tough descents, and the two layers of foam help reduce fatigue on long hikes. Since each insole size can fit a range of shoe sizes (one of the larger options fits shoes sizes 9.5 to 11, for example), you can trim the insert to get it to the ideal fit for your foot and preferred running shoes.

If you have low arches or flat feet, you need insoles that provide plenty of stability around your foot but less at the arch. The Low Profile RunPro from Currex delivers exactly that, with a nicely cupped heel, comfortable low arch support, and a stable wrap all around.

The cushioning is minimal, though there is some shock absorption, yet it delivers a nicely springy energy return. And the mesh top layer promotes breathability and moisture-wicking to keep things dry and comfy.

For runners with particularly high arches, the Run Support High Arch Insole is perfect. It delivers soft yet sturdy support, has a deep, stable heel cup, and gobbles up shock thanks to the super-absorbent cushioning.

The top fabric wicks moisture well, and—like with the brand’s Hike Support insoles above—the two-layer cushioning is durable. All that takes up a lot of space in your shoes, but it feels great when you’re pounding pavement.

If your aim is to strap pillowy softness onto your sore feet, the Superfeet Dynamic Run Max will deliver. Super cushioned thanks to the company’s AeroLyte Dual Comfort Foam, it will soften your run without reducing stability.

Nicely supportive in the heel and arch, it offers decent energy transfer from heel to toe. The moisture-wicking and odor protection are great, too.

Powerstep insoles are a go-to for those who suffer from plantar fasciitis, as they provide great support without being rock-hard and uncomfortable. The rigid arch is sandwiched between layers of EVA foam, which helps keep each insert cushioned while still sabatilles the stiffness and arch rigidity that plantar sufferers need. Wearers report that they hold up well over time, though they can feel pretty thick in your shoes. But for reducing pain, they’re great.