In this post, we’re exploring what makes shoes comfortable, and why you no longer should have to settle for uncomfortable shoes simply because they’re stylish. The combination of footwear design and an appropriate insole makes all the difference, from heels to work boots.
We’ve all heard the term, “Pain is Beauty”, which maybe had some logical place in another time period, but in today’s athleisure culture where comfort and style are nearly synonymous, the idea that we have to experience discomfort to look good frankly seems absurd.
Footwear, however, has always presented a bit of a challenge in this area. It can be difficult to find lifestyle shoes that are truly comfortable, and style is almost always the prevailing quality we look for. It’s probably not far off to say that most shoppers probably feel like they’re choosing style over comfort when it comes to certain types of footwear – like those heels that perfectly match your dress – but that choice doesn’t have to happen.
It doesn’t take a long time to realize your shoes aren’t comfortable. After any amount of time on your feet, it can be hard to ignore.
What many shoes lack is proper underfoot comfort. Insoles are typically designed flat and don’t provide the necessary arch support and cushioning to take the pressure off the bottoms of the feet.
The key, then, to underfoot comfort is the right insole. And at INSITE®, we work with brands to build our insoles right into the shoe, so you get the benefit of underfoot comfort right out of the box. You won’t have to suffer through an evening of discomfort in new shoes, or run out to buy replacement insoles at an additional cost.
The insoles we design for casual and lifestyle footwear are made using softer foams that are specifically engineered for cushioning and foot shape support. They also offer a slimmer profile that won’t add bulkiness to your shoe.
Here are qualities of the best insoles for casual footwear that will deliver a comfortable experience for shoes of any style.
Even though you may feel like suffering through a night of discomfort in those awesome shoes is worth it, the repercussions in the long run to your overall foot health tell a much different story.
Foot injuries like plantar fasciitis can develop over time from non-supportive footwear, not to mention blisters and general foot pain that can be quite disruptive to your everyday life.
Throwing on casual shoes to hit the town, dress shoes for work or special events, or even sandals for the beach shouldn’t result in a foot health issue that sticks with you and impacts your life.
Look for shoes that have INSITE insoles inside, or do research to understand the quality and level of support you’re getting with your shoe’s insole at the time of purchase.
There is a rapidly growing trend toward comfortable, supportive footwear that is also stylish, which has led to the shunning of flat, non-supportive footwear in deference to bulky, cushion-rich options. Brands are responding with footwear that provides the support and comfort consumers are looking for, and we’re proud to be working with many of them.
Regardless of age and type of shoe, there is an increasing awareness of the importance of proper underfoot support and comfort.
Last month we sat down with INSITE Biomechanics Research Lab Assistant Lily Bartel to discuss her research as she completes her master’s degree at Oregon State University and how it relates to her work with INSITE.
No matter what sport they’re built for, athletic shoes require insoles that can provide comfort and performance without weighing down the rest of the shoe. But when every gram counts, which insole materials are best for balancing lightweight performance and durability?
Basketball players demand a lot from their feet, and having the right insoles can make a significant difference in comfort, performance, and injury prevention. Here are some key features to look for in insoles for basketball insoles.