Solutions to Common Questions About Insoles
Even the best orthotic insoles can take some time to adjust to, especially when your feet are getting used to new levels of structure and support. From fit and comfort concerns to questions about lifespan, many customers experience similar issues when first wearing insoles.
At PowerStep, we design orthotics backed by podiatric expertise to promote better alignment and lasting relief from heel and arch pain. If your insoles aren’t feeling quite right yet, these common questions and solutions can help you get back to comfort and confidence in every step.
Question 1: My Insoles Don’t Fit in My Shoes
One of the most common frustrations people face is finding that their new insoles make their shoes feel too tight or raise their heel too high. In most cases, this comes down to two simple adjustments.
Solution 1: Remove your shoe’s factory insole.
Most shoes come with a removable liner that takes up space. Taking it out creates more room for your orthotic and ensures your foot sits properly in the shoe.
Solution 2: Match your insole to your shoe type.
If your shoes have a low or narrow profile, a full-volume insole like the PowerStep Pinnacle Maxx or PULSE Performance might simply be too thick. Instead, try a PowerStep Original, PULSE Thin, or even a ¾-length orthotic, which provides targeted support without the added bulk.
If you’re switching between casual shoes, running shoes, or work boots, you may benefit from owning a couple of insole types designed for different fits and uses.
Question 2: My Insoles Hurt or Didn’t Relieve Pain Right Away
If your feet feel sore or uncomfortable after wearing your insoles for the first few days, you’re not alone. PowerStep orthotics provide structured arch and heel support, which can feel firm compared to unsupportive or flat insoles.
Solution 1: Allow for a break-in period.
Your feet and body need time to adjust to improved alignment and biomechanics. Here’s our recommended break-in schedule:
- Day 1: Wear for 1 hour
- Add 1 additional hour per day for 5 days
- After that, wear full-time if comfortable
Some users may need up to two weeks to adapt to full-day wear. If discomfort persists after that, PowerStep offers a 60-day comfort guarantee, contact our Customer Care team and we’ll help you find a better fit.
Solution 2: Check your arch height.
Discomfort may also occur if your insoles don’t match your natural arch height. Take our quick Arch Height Finder Quiz to determine whether you need low, neutral, or high arch support.
Matching the right insole to your arch can make all the difference in comfort and long-term relief.
Question 3: My Insoles Wore Out Too Quickly
Another common question is, “Shouldn’t insoles last forever?” While we wish they could, all insoles naturally break down over time due to daily use, body weight, and activity level.
Under typical use, PowerStep orthotics last around six months before the cushioning and support materials begin to compress. If you wear them during high-impact activities like running or long work shifts, you may notice wear sooner.
Solution: When your insoles start to feel flat or less supportive, it’s time to replace them. Rotating between two pairs, for example, keeping one set for work and one for workouts can extend their life.
Question 4: Do I Still Need Insoles if I Wear Supportive Shoes?
This is a question we hear often, especially from customers who wear high-quality athletic shoes like Brooks, ASICS, or HOKA.
Even supportive shoes can lack the structured arch support needed to properly align the feet and reduce strain. While running shoes cushion impact, they don’t always control motion or provide biomechanical correction.
PowerStep insoles add that missing piece by stabilizing the heel and supporting the arch, improving how your feet move inside the shoe. Think of them as the foundation that enhances your shoe’s performance and comfort.
If you want to learn more about the science behind our designs, visit our Clinical Research page for an inside look at podiatrist-developed technology.
Question 5: My Insoles Don’t Match My Arch Type
If the arch support feels too high or too flat, the insole may not match your foot’s natural shape. A proper arch match ensures that the support aligns with your foot’s contours and keeps the plantar fascia comfortably stretched throughout the day.
PowerStep offers insoles for every arch type:
- Low Arch: Pinnacle Low
- Neutral Arch: Pinnacle
- High Arch: Pinnacle High
If you’re unsure of your arch type, take our Arch Height Finder Quiz to identify the best fit before your next purchase.
How Should Insoles Fit?
A good insole should fit snugly inside your shoe without sliding or bunching. Your heel should sit securely in the heel cradle, and the arch should feel like it’s meeting your foot in the right spot, not pressing too far forward or back.
If your insole feels slightly long, you can trim the forefoot area along the printed outline for a precise fit. Just be sure to remove the factory insole first so your foot doesn’t sit too high.
How to Get Insoles That Fit Your Arch
If you’ve ever wondered “how do you get insoles that fit your arch?”, the answer lies in understanding your foot structure. PowerStep’s insoles are designed for different arch heights, ensuring your feet get the support they need, whether you have flat feet, a medium arch, or a high instep.
A properly fitted insole helps distribute pressure evenly across the foot, improves alignment, and can relieve chronic pain caused by overpronation or plantar fasciitis. Use our Insole Finder Quiz to quickly identify which product best matches your anatomy.
Most insole issues come down to fit, arch match, or break-in time and each is easy to fix with the right knowledge. Whether you’re new to orthotics or just upgrading to a PowerStep model, small adjustments can make a big difference in comfort and performance. Explore the full collection of PowerStep Orthotic Insoles to find your perfect fit, and enjoy the long-term comfort and support your feet deserve.
Insole Fit and Comfort FAQs
Q: How should insoles fit inside my shoes?
A: They should sit flat inside your shoe without gaps or movement. Always remove the shoe’s original liner before inserting your PowerStep insole.
Q: How long do PowerStep insoles last?
A: On average, insoles last around six months with normal use, depending on your weight, footwear, and activity level.
Q: Why do new insoles hurt my feet?
A: Structured orthotics can feel firm at first. Follow PowerStep’s break-in schedule and give your body 1–2 weeks to adjust.
Q: Can I use PowerStep insoles with running or supportive shoes?
A: Yes. Even cushioned shoes can benefit from the structured alignment and stability that PowerStep insoles provide.
Q: How do I find the right arch support for my feet?
A: Use PowerStep’s Arch Height Finder Quiz to determine which insole matches your natural arch height.
