PowerStep Pinnacle® vs PULSE® Running Insoles: Which Do You Need?

Ever felt your feet aching after a long day? Or maybe you’re a runner looking for that extra spring in your step? Adding insoles to your shoes makes them more comfortable, but they can also help relieve pain and improve performance during different activities.

PowerStep® shoe insoles are trusted by podiatrists to provide the support people need to stand, walk, and run without pain. We’ve highlighted the differences between our everyday insoles and running insoles so you can choose the best support for your lifestyle.

PowerStep Pinnacle Insoles for Everyday Relief

The PowerStep Pinnacle shoe insoles were designed by a podiatrist to provide comfort and support during daily activities. Great for sneakers, walking shoes, and more, our signature arch and heel support with dual-layer cushioning helps limit stress on joints, improve alignment, and relieve foot, knee, hip, and back pain.

As the #1 podiatrist-recommended insole brand, wearing PowerStep Pinnacle in your everyday shoes helps to:

• Improve foot function by stabilizing and aligning the feet and ankles.
• Prevent and relieve pain from foot conditions like plantar fasciitis, flat feet, metatarsalgia, and more.
• Increase comfort for prolonged standing at work, running errands, or walking.
• Provide arch support for all arch types including high, neutral and low arches.

Featuring insoles for dress shoes, work boots, and more, PowerStep Pinnacle insoles for foot pain acknowledge your need for daily support. Whether you work on your feet or simply want more comfortable, supportive shoes, Pinnacle delivers all-day relief.

PowerStep PULSE Insoles for Running & Sports

People who live active lifestyles need support to help minimize the impact of activities on their joints. PowerStep PULSE insoles were specially made to handle high impact stress, reducing injuries and improving performance. Our signature arch support gives runners more stability while ShockAbsorb™ foam increases bounce back with each step.

Ideal for sports shoes, running shoes, cleats, and more, PULSE athletic insoles help:

• Reduce impact on joints to minimize the risk of common running injuries like shin splints, Achilles tendonitis, and knee pain.
• Increase stability by aligning the feet and ankles to prevent excess pronation.
• Reduce fatigue with enhanced comfort and arch support to prevent excess strain.
• Improve running efficiency with a spring-like effect that absorbs shock and helps propel you forward.

Runners, athletes, and fitness enthusiasts can benefit from more stability and cushioning in their shoes. As an orthotic, PowerStep PULSE are the best arch support insoles for running especially if you overpronate or suffer from plantar fasciitis flare-ups.

Can I use athletic insoles in my regular shoes?

Yes, you can use running insoles in your regular shoes. However, wearing the same pair of insoles for athletic activity and daily use can increase their wear and tear, so they won’t last as long as they should. Instead, you can Bundle & Save on insoles for running and every day to make the most of the support you need.

Key Differences: A Side-by-Side Comparison

While all PowerStep insoles have our signature arch support, there are a few key differences between the Pinnacle and PULSE insoles including:

• Materials: Pinnacle has dual-layer cushioning for all-day comfort while PULSE provides lightweight, extreme shock absorption during high impact activities.
• Support levels: Pinnacle was made to accommodate multiple arch types including low arches and high arches.
• Purpose: You can wear Pinnacle insoles all day while at work or on-the-go. PULSE insoles were made for activities like running, sports, and general exercise.
• Longevity: Pinnacle insoles last 6 months or longer under normal, casual wear. Running insoles may need to be replaced every 350 to 450 miles for the best performance.

All feet are unique, making it hard to find an all-in-one solution to pain or discomfort. You might be a runner who overpronates, or you're required to wear narrow dress shoes at work. Below is a side-by-side comparison of our top insoles from Pinnacle and PULSE:

Pinnacle Insoles vs PULSE Performance

When you have aching arch or heel pain, Pinnacle shoe insoles for plantar fasciitis provide all-day relief. Runners who are recovering from foot pain or need more support in their shoes should try PULSE Performance insoles.

Pinnacle Maxx vs PULSE Maxx

Both insoles are designed to help correct overpronation, which happens when the foot rolls inward too much, causing pain and instability. Use Pinnacle Maxx insoles in your daily shoes and PULSE Maxx insoles if you overpronate while running.

Pinnacle Plus vs PULSE Plus

Suffering from ball of foot pain? These insoles each feature built-in metatarsal pads to reduce pressure on the forefoot. Choose Pinnacle Plus insoles for daily metatarsal support or PULSE Plus insoles if you have ball of foot pain while running.

Pinnacle 3/4 vs PULSE 3/4

With a non-slip, compact design, 3/4 length insoles are the perfect fit for narrow shoes. Pinnacle 3/4 inserts support your feet in low-profile sneakers. For cleats, track spikes, and cycling or golf shoes, we recommend PULSE 3/4 inserts.

How to Choose the Right Insole for You

Selecting what insoles are best depends on a few factors including your arch height, activity level, shoe type, and whether you have existing foot pain.

The PowerStep Insole Finder can help you choose the right insoles for you. This quick quiz is free and features the best recommendations for daily foot pain relief and performance.

Relieve Pain & Stay Active with PowerStep

Tired, achy feet make it hard to be active, but daily exercise is important for your health. Clinically proven to improve foot function, PowerStep Pinnacle insoles and PULSE athletic insoles help prevent and relieve pain so you can be healthy from head to toe.