A recent story on insoles in work footwear cited podiatrist Dr. David Chen of South Florida, who says “most if not all work boots are designed primarily for protection of the toes and feet from external trauma with only second thought paid to cushioning and comfort.”
Adding insoles makes a significant difference in jobsite comfort and performance, he notes, adding they go a long way in preventing plantar fasciitis and metatarsalgia.
Among the many insole options on the market are those made by Superfeet, started in 1977 as the Sports Medicine Division of Northwest Podiatric Laboratory.
The company’s line of work insoles includes two new products: the Work Cushion Insoles and the Work Slim-Fit Cushion Insoles.
My Experience with the Boot Insole
I tested both the Superfeet Work Cushion and Work Slim-Fit Cushion as I completed outdoor tasks throughout the day.
Sometimes one foot can measure differently from the other, requiring product modification. A consultation with a podiatrist may help a worker make the best choice. Nonetheless, although the Work Cushion insole was not a clean fit for the footwear I was wearing, Superfeet insoles are designed so they can easily be cut to fit. I was able to do so with no problems.
Throughout the day, I noted no foot discomfort that I typically can get after spending a day on my feet. I also encountered more ease with my gait. The insoles offered me the ability to accomplish more tasks over a longer time period without needing to take a ‘foot’ break.
Typically, insoles may typically last between six months and a year, depending on the frequency of use and the type of material used to create the orthotic.
Carol Brzozowski
In my experience, the comfort was immediate and lasting.
Part of the company’s Work category focus is the launch of a range of scalable programs for environmental health and safety managers, safety buyers, human resources and wellness liaisons, designed to drive down injury rates and increase workforce satisfaction by making the integration and use of insoles in corporate wellness and safety programs seamless.
The Superfeet company notes a commitment to supporting sustainability – the details are outlined here. The company also donates one percent of its sales to various philanthropic efforts. Its products are distributed through two dozen locations globally.
Boot Insole Design
The Superfeet orthotic shape is designed to offer feet comfort and support, with rear foot support enhancing the way feet are intended to move, dispersing impact and decreasing stress and strain throughout the entire body.
The structured heel cup design encapsulates the heel’s soft tissue, decreasing pressure and maximizing shock absorption. Rounded contours are designed to improve the fit of the shoes and be more comfortable than a flat heel.
The Work Cushion Insoles are designed for anti-fatigue dual-layer comfort and considered ideal for spacious work boots and safety toe footwear.
The Work Slim-Fit Cushion Insoles are designed to offer flexible, anti-fatigue support in a slim, adaptable profile and considered ideal for snug-fitting footwear and athletic-style work shoes.
The Work Cushion is designed for max insole thickness. The Work Slim-Fit Cushion is designed for mid insole thickness.
Carol Brzozowski
Superfeet orthotic support is designed to cater to diverse arch heights, helping to combat foot fatigue and minimize stress and strain. Adaptive Comfort Technology facilitates natural foot movement for extended lengths of time to help meet construction industry work task demands.
A tapered forefront designed to improve fit in work and safety toe footwear is featured in both insoles.
The Moisturewick top made from 100 percent recycled materials is designed to mitigate odors and ensure long-lasting freshness – a plus working in warm weather and for those whose feet tend to sweat profusely.
The Work Cushion insole has premium dual-layer cushioning to guard against stress and strain. The Work Slim-Fit Cushion has a premium foam layer designed to cushion the foot and help reduce fatigue.
Both sell for $54.99.
With many options on the market and some less expensive, the key factor is the return on the investment. Market research of those wearing the product has demonstrated improved comfort in the back and spine, knees, feet and ankles.
