Hiking is great, isn’t it?
It gets us out in the fresh air, the beautiful views, picnic dates, and the oh so delightful panoramic pictures ready for Instagram!
What isn’t so great is the sore feet. The blisters, the dull ache, the rubbed raw heels. Spending so much time walking, especially on uneven terrain can take its toll, and no-one likes walking with sore feet!
That is where insoles come in. Now, your hiking boots probably came with an insole yes? If it was anything like mine, it was thin, flimsy, and better off being chewed by a dog.
But fear not, we are here to help you find the best insoles for hiking! With a set to suit every budget, we will have your boots lined and you walking away in no time!
Be sure to check out our suggestions, as well as our handy buyer’s guide and FAQs so you can buy the best insoles for hiking with ease.
In a hurry? Check out our top pick below to get your boots lined and ready to go!
Top 5 Best Insoles for Hiking
OUR TOP PICK
These affordable insoles are a great option to consider. The unisex gel insole comes in a range of sizes so there’s sure to be one that suits your feet.
The cushioned support is great for the heel and forefoot and features a honeycomb design which helps reduce stress and pressure points on your feet as you hike.
Envelop’s insoles offer good shock absorption and are lightweight so great to add to already heavy hiking boots.
They work to reduce foot fatigue and thanks to their design for a neutral arch, provide additional stability at the heel.
These gel insoles are also a good solution for those suffering from plantar fasciitis pain, although be sure to speak to a doctor if you are suffering!
They are durable and come with a 60-day guarantee so you can purchase with ease!
The gel insoles can be cut to size if needed, although some customers did find that they moved around the shoe slightly.
Pros:
- Affordable
- Durable
- Comfortable
- Shock absorbing
- Reduces fatigue
Con:
- Some customers found that they moved around in their shoe slightly
More time? Browse our other great options below…
EDITORS CHOICE
Superfeet’s insoles are a little pricier than others on the list.
They offer aero spring technology in these foam insoles offering a lot of comfort for hikers.
They are designed to minimize foot fatigue and reduce shifting which can lead to hot spots, blisters, shin splints, and foot pain.
The insoles provide long-lasting stability and are designed to work for any arch height, although those with a higher arch may not find these suitable.
The deep heel cup prevents any heel slip and is fitted with a heel impact technology POD in the heel which disperses impact for ascents and descents.
The dual comfort technology enhances comfort for rough terrains, making this a good option for those not afraid of a bumpier road!
Superfeet’s insoles are durable for up to 12 months or 500 miles whichever comes first so you know they will last even the most avid hiker!
They are also fitted with good odor control thanks to the moisture wick in the insole to keep your shoes smelling fresh on your hikes.
Pros:
- Comfortable foam
- Good for rough terrain
- Minimizes foot fatigue
- Durable
- Reduces shifting
Con:
- Not the best for high arches
BEST VALUE
Sole Active insoles are at the top of the price range, available in men and women’s sizes.
The insoles are made from cork, meaning they do not mold to your foot shape as well as other materials do. The cork is recycled and sustainably sourced, so a good option for those looking to be more conscious in their purchasing!
The insoles are comfortable to wear and designed to promote your foot’s natural alignment. They help to improve balance, distribute weight and pressure evenly across your feet.
They are lightweight and offer well-cushioned support.
In particular, the odor control on these stands out and was praised by customers.
Pros:
- Men’s and women’s sizes
- Comfortable
- Lightweight
- Help improve balance
- Sustainably sourced
Con:
- Cork does not mold as well as other materials
RUNNER UP
Timberland’s PRO insoles are a great option for those suffering from tired feet. Made with Ortholite technology they are designed to be comfortable and keep your feet going.
The shock absorption is designed to return energy to your feet with each step to keep you going through your long hikes.
It features dynamic arch support suitable for those with a neutral arch, meaning it should fit most people’s feet.
The insoles are supportive and popular, particularly with owners of Timberlands.
Some customers did have to cut their insoles to fit so it's worth noting that if purchasing.
The insoles are made from a comfortable foam and are lightweight to wear. Sitting at the mid-price point they are a great option for those wanting to keep their feet energized.
Pros:
- Mid-price point
- Comfortable
- Shock absorbing
- Supportive
- lightweight
Con:
- Might have to cut to size
RUNNER UP
In a camo design and decently priced are Powerstep’s insoles. They come in a range of sizes for men and women.
With firmer arch support than its competitors, Powerstep’s insole4 cradles the heel for added stability and support on uneven surfaces.
The insoles are made from foam allowing for good shock absorption. These are designed to decrease stress on your feet and ankles too.
Made with a dual-layer cushioning, these insoles provide long-lasting comfort, great for longer hikes!
The top fabric layer is anti-microbial which reduces heat and friction to keep feet comfortable, protected, and cool. Great for anyone with sweaty feet or on summer hikes!
These insoles have a high arch so may not be suitable for everyone’s feet.
Pros:
- Mid-price point
- Range of sizes
- Cradles the heel
- Comfortable
- Shock absorbing
Con:
- High arch so not suitable for everyone
Best Insoles for Hiking Buying Guide
Not too sure what's suitable?
Use our handy buyers guide below to make finding the best insoles that much easier.
What Type
Insoles designed for hiking will be described by two main words, volume, and profile.
The volume looks at the amount of space your insole will take up in your hiking boots or shoes. They come in low, medium, and high volumes and this will allow you to see whether it can be added to the existing insole.
The profile looks at the arch support. If your arches have good support, low arch insoles are a good option for you.
A medium profile will cover most average foot types, whereas a high profile is best for people with flat feet. Spend some time getting to grips with your feet to find the best option!
Bootheel inserts are also available, these are a good option for those with narrow heels as they will cradle the heel and prevent slippage.
All About That Feel
There are a few different materials that can be used for insoles. Think about what you need the most from your insole to make your decision, be that comfort, longevity, or breathable design.
Gel insoles feature liquid gel bubbles inside a foam insole. The gel resists compression and provides shock absorption and retains their shape meaning they should last!
However, they can be heavy and add to the weight of your boots which isn’t always ideal. They are also not the most breathable material.
Cork insoles provide a lightweight design and naturally moisture-wicking which helps with odor control. They are soft so there will be plenty of comforts, and sturdy to support you.
Air insoles feature air bubbles in the foam which provide comfort, support, and cushion without the compression that happens over time to foam alone. They are a long-lasting option that is breathable as well.
Foam insoles are usually made from memory foam and are not as long-lasting as others due to their compression over time. They are comfortable, light, and will provide you with shock absorption.
Got Those Added Features
When looking for your perfect insoles consider the characteristics you may be looking for.
Waterproof insoles are great for those who are never put off by the weather as they will keep you dry come rain, shine, or the odd puddle dive! They are also handy for those with sweaty feet.
Weighted insoles will boost the exercise value of your hike. By adding weight to your boot you will have to work that bit harder each time you lift your foot, adding to your workout. They may not be ideal for those going on longer hikes but a good option for those looking to burn a few more calories.
Breathable insoles are good for sweaty or hot feet and can help with odor control too. They are also a good choice for your warmer weather hikes.
Cushion insoles are a great choice if you suffer from foot fatigue and are after maximum shock absorption.
Memory Foam insoles will mold to your feet and can be comfortable and light to wear. It's not a very breathable fabric and is not as durable as other options so bear that in mind.
Price
Insoles can range in price so be sure to set a clear budget before you begin looking.
Remember that you don’t need to break the bank to get some good quality insoles for your hiking shoes.
Frequently Asked Questions
See our handy FAQ’s to find some last minute clarity and advice before those insoles go straight in your basket!
What are hiking insoles?
Hiking insoles are essentially insoles that are designed or work best for hiking. Typically these insoles will fall into two categories: comfort and sport.
Comfort insoles will provide extra comfort for your feet during hikes and are usually made from foam or gel. Be sure to check out which materials are right for you in our buyer’s guide!
Sport insoles will provide support and stability to your feet. They will most likely be more rigid in style to allow for this and are better for those hiking on more uneven terrain for longer periods.
Do I need insoles?
Insoles can be a great addition to your hiking boots or shoes. They can provide added comfort which is great for long hikes. They are not a necessity for everyone, but it's worth looking at some of the benefits and investing, especially if you are an avid hiker.
Insoles can help with foot fatigue, improve stability, and reduce moisture and stress on your feet. They can also be great at helping remove odor as well, great to know when you are doing a particularly long hike.
If you have issues with flat feet, an insole may be more of a necessity for you than other people. Remember to consult with a doctor or specialist if necessary.
Can I layer insoles?
Layering insoles is where you pop one insole on top of the other. There is nothing to say you can’t do this if that works for you then great! Just be aware that the more you put in your hiking boots or shoes, the less space there will be for your feet!
Make sure the fit of your shoe is still comfortable before you set off!
It's also worth checking that the layered insoles aren’t sliding about on top of each other. Making sure they are the right size is a good way to do this.
What about the insole that’s already there?
Your hiking boots or shoes will already come with an insole in, as does every shoe you purchase. Unless stated they are normally thin. While these are perfectly fine for day to day walking, hiking boots often require a thicker sole to support you.
You can choose to layer your insoles, although be careful that they do not slip around. The best option is to remove the insole and replace it with the one you have purchased. It should fit snugly in place and stay there as you like.