Best Inserts for Basketball Shoes to Prevent Pronation

Basketball players cannot avoid repetitive stress on their lower limbs—it just comes with the territory. Whether you're blocking a jump shot or trying to shoot the ball through the hoop, how your feet strike the ground can determine if you’ll go home injured or finish the night on the court.

Even with appropriate shoes, the risk of injury remains. But with overpronation, the risk increases. However, there is a simple solution: add inserts to your shoes.

If you haven't yet, then you may soon become overwhelmed by the number of products in the market as you conduct your search. Stop right there, because we've compiled a list of our top 7 best inserts for basketball shoes.

» Should all athletes wear orthotics? Discover which athletes can benefit from wearing orthotics

1. Upstep Pronation Custom Orthotics

Upstep Pronation Custom Orthotics are designed specifically for you by professional podiatrists based on your foot shape. As there may be different underlying causes in each case, these custom orthotics aim to provide you with a long-term solution that fits into your lifestyle easily.

Their reinforced heel counters and arch support limit pronation and foot fatigue, while keeping the foot naturally aligned and allowing a range of movements. These insoles also guarantee maximum support, shock absorption, and foot pain relief.

Finally, Upstep Pronation Custom Orthotics are affordable and HSA/FSA eligible.

» What is underpronation? Learn the difference between overpronation vs underpronation 

2. Upstep Basketball Custom Orthotics

Upstep Basketball Custom Orthotics are a work of art and a natural top choice for basketball players looking to prevent pronation. These insoles have a durable polypropylene shell, a cushioned middle layer, and a high-quality top layer, guaranteeing comfort, shock absorption, and maximum energy return every time.

Despite this, the insoles remain lightweight and won't drag you down. Their custom-made design ensures they fit easily into any sneaker, while efficiently reducing pronation and improving performance.

» Want custom inserts for your orthotics to elevate your basketball game? Discover amazing insoles for basketball players with flat feet

3. Superfeet Carbon Insoles

Superfeet Carbon Insoles are lightweight, low-profile inserts made from carbon fiber material that will hold up to the demands of a long game or practice. It has a structured heel cup that provides increased stability and support for the arch, thus limiting pronation.

Sometimes, they can be too thin, especially in shoes with very little cushioning. So, you need to pay attention to the cushioning in your shoe before picking one. They can also be slippery and slide around in your basketball sneakers, making them less than ideal.

4. SOLE Active Thin Insoles with Metatarsal Pad

SOLE Active Thin Insoles come with a thin yet durable EVA footbed. The footbeds are made from recycled wine corks, making them eco-friendly.

The footbed is multi-layered, has a pronounced ridge, and extra cushioning at the forefoot. Consequently, the insole keeps the foot aligned in its natural position and relieves pressure on the ball of the foot.

However, the insoles are best suited for slim or tightfitting footwear. They're also not custom-made but can be molded at home through heat or by being worn. Therefore, the fit and support may not be ideal.

5. Tread Labs Dash Thin Insoles

Tread Labs Dash Thin insoles are also made from carbon fiber, making them light and super-thin. They have firm, durable arch support that limits pronation and improves foot alignment as well as deep heel cups that provide cushioning.

However, it's not custom-fitted, thereby possibly reducing its effectiveness. Instead, it comes in specific sizes and four different arch heights that may require trimming to fit.

» Take your game to another level with the best insoles for basketball players with flat feet

6. Protalus T-100 Elite Insoles

Protalus T-100 Elite Insoles are durable, comfortable, and affordable. These insoles provide additional stability and comfort for your foot, because they support the subtalar joint, align the foot, and help prevent overpronation.

You don’t have to worry about too much moisture or friction with Protalus T-100 Elite Insoles as it has a moisture-wicking and friction-reducing top layer. They're also thinner than the M-series, fitting in your shoes more easily.

However, these insoles are best suited for low-volume shoes with removable insoles. Therefore, these may not be as effective.

7. URthotics Active/Sports Insoles

URthotics Active/Sports Insoles are custom-made, so even if you don't know your foot arch height or size, these insoles are designed to fit your foot contouring.

Able to fit within your active lifestyle, the custom base and arch support provide stability and motion control, while the deep heel cup helps to relieve pain and overpronation. They are often made with a deep heel cup to align the foot.

URthotics Active/Sports Insoles are expensive when compared to competitors but can be paid for with HSA and FSA insurance.

» Should you wear sport-specific orthotics? Consider why different athletes benefit differently from orthotics

Final Verdict

Missing your favorite game due to injury is disappointing, especially when it's avoidable. While basketball shoes may offer some support, it's not nearly enough to effectively manage the stress from the game on your feet. Adding insoles to your shoes can help limit overpronation, but only if it's the right pair.

Custom orthotics tick all the requirements across the board because it's based on your footprint, giving you the best support, while standard, over-the-counter insoles don't take your unique needs into consideration.

» Still unsure about using orthotics? Read more about the benefits of orthotics for basketball players