4 Best Insoles for High Instep—Tested by Physical Therapists
Updated May 8, 2023.
Shoes are often made with the average foot shape in mind, meaning those on the extremes may not 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. It also forces the arch up, causing high arches. This may cause instability and pain because excess weight is placed on the front and back of your foot.
Consequently, you may need insoles for adequate arch support to reduce tension on your foot. Therefore, it's essential to choose the right insole. Browse our list of the four best insoles for high instep available on the market below.
4 Best High Instep Insoles According to Physical Therapists
- Overall Best: Upstep Arch Support Custom Orthotics
- Best for Removable Inserts Shoes: Thread Labs Ramble Thin Insoles
- Best for Sensitive Feet: URthotics Comfort+ Insoles
- Best Budget: Superfeet Green Insoles
1. Overall Best Custom Orthotics for High Instep
Pros
- Custom-made by top podiatrists
- Perforated top layer
- Well-cushioned bottom layer
- Eligible for FSA, HSA, and Klarnapay installments
- 180-day money-back guarantee
- Free shipping and returns
Cons
- Short waiting period before receiving orthotics
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.
» Read the review: Arch Support Custom Orthotics
2. Best High Instep Insoles for Shoes with Removable Inserts
Pros
- Thin and light
- Four arch heights to choose from
- Provide shock absorption and stability
- Easily replace damaged insoles with million-mile guarantee
Cons
- Not custom-made
- Not as durable
- Lack of comfort in the heal
- May take some time to get used to
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.
» How can you determine your arch height? Learn how to work out your arch height at home
3. Best Insoles for High Instep and Sensitive Feet
Pros
- Custom made
- Triple-layered top cover
- Deep heel cup
- FSA and HSA eligible
- Six months money-back guarantee
Cons
- No interest-free installments
- Complicated paperwork
- Short waiting period before receiving orthotics
URthotics 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, URthotics 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.
4. Best Affordable Insoles for High Instep
Pros
- Feet naturally aligned
- Cushioned top layer
- Deep heel cup
- Natural coating removes bacteria and odor
- Affordable with free shipping
- 60-day return policy
Cons
- Not custom-made
- Have to be trimmed to size
- May become squeaky
- May take longer to break in
- Not as comfortable
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.
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. However, with the correct insoles, your feet are comfortable and your body weight is evenly distributed, thereby relieving foot pain and reducing the impact of walking, running, or jumping on your feet.
While over-the-counter insoles are helpful for many foot conditions, custom orthotics produce better results because they're made for you and aren't generic. Though some may be expensive in the short term, their durability and results make them cost-effective in the long run.