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4 Best Insoles for High Instep—Tested by Physical Therapists

Selecting the best insoles for high arches is crucial for optimal foot support and comfort. Explore why choosing high arch insoles matters.

a man in a white shirt and blue and pink suspenders
By Babafemi Adebajo
Michelle Meyer - Editor for Upstep
Edited by Michelle Meyer

Updated February 8, 2024.

A pair of leather insoles laying against a white background.

Shoes are often made with the average foot shape in mind, meaning those on the extremes may need to get what is ideal for their foot. People with a high instep fall into this category.

The foot's instep is the bony structure on top of the foot—it runs from the back of the toes to the front of the ankle. If you find your shoes often rub against the top of your foot, you likely have a high instep. High instep may also force the arch up, leading to developing high arches—which may cause instability and pain because excess weight is placed on the front and back of your foot. Consequently, you may need insoles with adequate arch support to reduce tension on your foot.

To alleviate the pain and discomfort, it's essential to choose the right insoles. Browse our list of the best insoles for high arches available on the market below to make an informed decision.

4 Best High Instep Insoles According to Physical Therapists

  • Overall Best Arch Support Orthotics: Upstep Arch Support Custom Orthotics
  • Best for Removable Inserts Shoes: Thread Labs Ramble Thin Insoles
  • Best for Sensitive Feet: URthotics Comfort+ Insoles
  • Best Budget Arch Support Orthotics: Superfeet Green Insoles


Why is it Important to Choose Insoles with High Arch Support?

Choosing the best insoles for high arches is not just about finding comfort; it's about safeguarding your foot health and mobility. High arches can lead to various issues, including plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendonitis, bunions, and even knee and hip pain. Investing in the best inserts for high arches is essential for providing the necessary support and alignment to prevent such problems.

When it comes to selecting the right pair of insoles, look for inserts specifically designed to support high arches. These inserts are typically contoured to match the natural curve of your foot, providing targeted support where it's needed most. The best high arch insoles also offer cushioning to alleviate pressure points and reduce the risk of discomfort or injury.

Investing in the best shoe inserts for high arches is crucial for maintaining foot health and preventing pain and discomfort. By choosing high-quality, durable, supportive insoles explicitly designed for high arches, you can enjoy improved comfort, mobility, and overall well-being.

» Not sure if you need insoles for high instep? Here's how to know if you need arch support

Best overall arch support orthotics

1


Exceptional
10
Upstep custom insole for plantar fasciitis positioned upright, seen from the side, slightly bent by hand

Arch Support Custom Orthotics

Step into comfort with Upstep's custom insoles

Read the review

Refunds

100% money-back guarantee for 180 days


Shipping and returns

Free shipping and returns


Coverage

FSA/HSA eligible

Upstep's Arch Support Custom Orthotics factors in the shape of your feet, your age, lifestyle, everyday activities, previous experience with inserts, and even your preferred shoes to create a product specifically suited to you—making these orthotics inherently superior to general over-the-counter insoles.

They are the best insoles for high arches because while the top layer is perforated to reduce microbial action and manage temperature changes, the bottom layer is well-cushioned to provide adequate support to the foot arch.

Additionally, Upstep orthotics are affordable through FSA, HSA, and Klarnapay payments. Not satisfied or need adjustments to the product? Upstep orthotics come with a 180-day money-back guarantee.

Custom-made by top podiatrists

Perforated top layer

FSA and HSA eligible and Klarnapay installments

Well-cushioned bottom layer

Short waiting period before receiving orthotics

Best for removable inserts shoes

2


Outstanding
9.9
Tread Labs Ramble Signature Thin insoles

Tread Labs Ramble Thin

Refunds

90 day money-guarantee back


Shipping and returns

Free shipping in US and free returns within 90 days


Coverage

FSA/HSA eligible

Tread Labs Ramble Thin Insoles will easily impress you. Built for comfort and ideal for shoes with thin removable inserts, Ramble Thin Insoles are light on your feet and have two distinct layers: the top layer and the arch support.

The top layer is well-cushioned and keeps the heel comfortable. It's also replaceable if it wears out. The insole's plastic arch support aids with shock absorption and brings stability to your foot during motion, making these insoles suitable for high instep. Plus, Ramble Thin Insoles offer four different arch heights you can choose from.

Additionally, Ramble Thin Insoles come with a million-mile guarantee, allowing you to request a new pair at any time if they crack or lose their shape. Shipping is free within the US and generally takes 4-5 business days.

Thin and light

Four arch heights to choose from

Provide shock absorption and stability

Easily replace damaged insoles with million-mile guarantee

Not custom-made

Not as durable

Lack of comfort in the heal

May take some time to get used to

Best for sensitive feet

3


Outstanding
9.8
URthotics Comfort Plus insoles

Bilt Labs Comfort+ Insoles

Refunds

6 months money-back guarantee


Shipping and returns

Free shipping and returns


Coverage

FSA/HSA eligible



Bilt Labs Comfort+ Insoles are custom-made to suit the needs of your feet, especially if they're sensitive. The triple-layered soft top cover improves comfort and durability, while the deep heel cup and custom base provide stability and motion control. The arch support depends on the contouring of your foot, but it's generally designed to support your foot arch maximally—and, therefore, your high instep.

    Certain of its effectiveness, Bilt Labs offers a six months money-back guarantee if the product doesn't satisfy you, including free adjustments. Additionally, URthotics are eligible for FSA and HSA.

Custom made

Triple-layered top cover

Deep heel cup

No interest-free installments

Complicated paperwork

Short waiting period before receiving orthotics

Best budget arch support orthotics

4


Outstanding
9.7
Superfeet Green Insoles

Superfeet Green Insoles

Refunds

60-day money-back guarantee


Shipping and returns

Free shipping and returns within 60 days


Coverage

FSA/HSA eligible



Superfeet Green Insoles present a cost-effective alternative to custom orthotics. Consisting of a cushioned top layer, a deep heel cup, and high arch support, these insoles can help with your high instep.



The top layer is made from high-density foam to increase comfort, while a firm polymer stabilization cap keeps the foot neutrally aligned and reduces repetitive stress on your leg, thereby reducing the chance of foot injury. Additionally, it has a natural coating that eliminates odor-causing bacteria, preventing odor in your shoe.

    Unlike custom orthotics, Superfeet Green Insoles come in ready-made sizes and may have to be trimmed to size. You may find the insoles become squeaky. But Superfeet offers a 60-day return policy if you're not satisfied with your purchase.

Feet naturally aligned

Cushioned top layer

Natural coating removes bacteria and odor

Not custom-made

Must be trimmed to fit shoes

May become squeaky

May take longer to break in



» How can you determine your arch height? Learn how to calculate it at home

Get the Right Support for High Instep

The best you can do for high instep is to support it appropriately; otherwise, the alignment of your feet is affected, leading to pain and injury. With the high arch insoles, your feet will be comfortable, and your body weight will be evenly distributed, thereby relieving foot pain and reducing the impact of walking, cycling, running, or jumping on your feet.

While over-the-counter insoles may seem helpful for this foot condition, Upstep custom orthotics produce better results because they're made specifically for your feet and aren't generic. Though custom high arch insoles may be expensive in the short term, their durability and results make them cost-effective in the long run.