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Best Insoles for Hockey Skates for Enhanced Balance & Stability

Dominate the ice with the top insoles for hockey skates, boosting your balance and stability for peak performance.

a man with a mustache and a vest
By Janik Sundstrom
Dorian Rhode
Edited by Dorian Rhode

Updated December 6, 2024

a pair of ice skates sitting on top of a frozen lake

Imagine gliding across the ice with effortless power, your every move a testament to peak performance. Now, stop imagining because that reality is within reach.

It's not just about hours on the ice or the latest stick technology. Most players unknowingly sabotage their speed, agility, and power with a common mistake. Wondering what it is? It's poor balance.

But there's a product in hockey that the elite players use to achieve it. They have specialized insoles tucked away in their skates, and they're about to separate you from the benders you play with every day.

» Try custom orthotics for hockey skates to improve your stability

How Custom Custom Orthotics for Hockey Skates Help With Balance

Hockey players face unique challenges when it comes to foot support. The sport's demanding nature, with its powerful strides, sudden direction changes, and precise movements, puts immense strain on the feet. The continuous impact and vibrations from the ice also contribute to foot fatigue and discomfort.

One common issue is their tendency to experience foot supination, leading to imbalanced weight distribution, increased risk of injuries like sprained ankles, and reduced stability. Fortunately, specialized hockey insoles for skates address these challenges head-on, empowering players to stay comfortable, agile, and in control on the ice.

» Eliminate foot pain and run stronger. Get custom orthotics for flat feet

Best Hockey Skate Insoles for Balance

Best overall insoles for hockey skates

1


A foot impression box next to custom orthotics, an alternative to DIY insoles.

Upstep Multi-Sports Custom Orthotics

Custom-made from your foot mold to absorb impact and prevent injury.

Satisfaction guarantee

Within 180 days of purchase + free remakes


Delivery

Free 10–16 day shipping


Coverage

FSA/HSA eligible


Payment options

Klarna eligible; four interest-free payments

  • Personalized arch support based on individual foot impressions helps improve skating balance and power transfer on ice.

  • Specifically engineered for athletes with consideration for sport-specific movement patterns and demands.

  • Uses 56 different material combinations ranging from soft to rigid to match individual needs and skating requirements.

  • Heel cushioning absorbs impact from skating movements and provides stability during direction changes.

  • Created by Phillip Wells, a world-renowned podiatrist with over 17 years of experience designing orthotics for professional athletes.

  • Addresses and prevents foot conditions that can sideline hockey players, including heel spurs, metatarsalgia, and Achilles tendinopathy.

The Upstep Multi-Sport Custom Orthotics are our top choice for hockey insoles because their personalized arch support and biomechanical design directly enhance skating performance. They improve balance, power transfer, and foot stability on ice.

They're designed by a team of podiatrists led by Dr. Philip Wells, a professional with over 17 years of experience in creating orthotics. You receive a custom mold to imprint your feet, which reveals unique stress patterns you may experience during a match.

Plus, you'll prevent injuries and common conditions that can impact on-ice performance, such as heel spurs, metatarsalgia, and Achilles tendinopathy.

180-day money-back guarantee with free remakes if needed

60% cost savings compared to other custom orthotic brands

Designed by experienced sports podiatrists

The impression kit process takes time

Temporary discomfort during the initial break-in period

2


A pair of yellow Superfeet hockey insoles.

Superfeet Hockey Performance Insoles

Satisfaction guarantee

Within 60 days of purchase


Delivery

Depends on the retailer


Coverage

FSA/HSA eligible


Payment options

Depends on the retailer

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  • The Flybridge™ design channels energy through the sole to absorb vibration and influence acceleration, stopping, and turning.
  • An anatomically shaped heel cup holds the foot in place to limit movement within the skate and provide stability.
  • A thin heel-to-toe profile with vented construction is intended to create a close fit, while ventilation holes allow air to circulate inside the boot.
  • The Moisturewick™ top cover manages moisture and helps control odor during extended use.

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The Superfeet Hockey Performance Insoles are designed to provide structural support and facilitate energy transfer between the foot and the skate, which can influence acceleration, turning, and control during play.

Pre-made insoles offer general support, but they are not tailored to an individual’s foot structure. In high-impact sports such as hockey, custom orthotics can be made to address specific alignment and pressure distribution needs, which may affect performance and comfort.

Carbon-reinforced design boosts responsiveness

Built to maintain their shape, supporting even after extended use

Integrates well into skates without adding excessive bulk

Some customers reported that the arch support felt "off" or too far back

Thin profile, which may not be comfortable if you prefer more cushioning

3


CCM hockey insoles

CCM Custom Orthomove Skate Insoles

Satisfaction guarantee

Within 30 days of purchase


Delivery

Paid 1–12 day shipping


Coverage

None


Payment options

Major credit cards

    • The arch support system allows inserts to be swapped to match different arch heights, enabling adjustments to support levels.
    • The heel cup contains energy transfer zones positioned to influence speed and power during skating.
    • The design focuses on directing power from the foot to the blade, with the aim of affecting on-ice performance.
  • Adjustable arch support and energy transfer technology work together to influence foot alignment and the efficiency of force transfer from the foot to the skate blade.

    These factors can affect speed, stride power, and stability on edges.

    While adjustable systems allow for some level of personalization, custom orthotics are made to the exact measurements and mechanics of an individual’s feet, which can provide a more specific fit and alignment.

    Offers versatile adjustment for various foot types

    Designed to improve speed, power, and stability on edges

    Can be trimmed to achieve a perfect fit

    Some customers have reported a plastic or chemical odor before first use

    Despite the customization, some customers have found them uncomfortable

    4


    TTS hockey insoles

    True Temper Sports Genetix Skate Insoles

    Satisfaction guarantee

    Within 30 days of purchase


    Delivery

    Paid 1–6 day shipping


    Coverage

    None


    Payment options

    Credit card, PayPal, Klarna or eGift Card

    • Two fit systems are available to accommodate low, mid, or high arches, allowing the level of arch support to be matched to the foot.
    • An integrated heel cup holds the heel in place and works in conjunction with the arch support to limit movement inside the skate.
    • Metatarsal support is included to help distribute pressure more evenly across the forefoot, which can reduce localized discomfort during skating.

    True Genetix ice hockey skate insoles are designed to provide support and stability while addressing common pressure points. Arch support is shaped using a 3D foot last intended to reflect general anatomical patterns.

    This approach can help reduce discomfort and maintain control during skating.

    A 3D foot last uses a representative model rather than an exact mold of the individual’s foot; custom orthotics are made from precise measurements of a specific foot structure.

    Specific versions for low/mid and high arches for a tailored fit

    Metatarsal support reduces uneven pressure and discomfort

    Many customers report that they effectively reduced discomfort during longer matches

    Some customers say that they feel "too squishy," reducing the direct "feel" of the ice

    More expensive than most off-the-shelf insoles

    5


    CURREX HOCKEYPRO Insoles

    CURREX HOCKEYPRO Insoles

    Satisfaction guarantee

    Within 60 days of purchase


    Delivery

    Free over $49.95; 1–2 day shipping


    Coverage

    FSA/HSA eligible


    Payment options

    Credit card, ShopPay, PayPal, GPay

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    • Arch support is available in low, medium, and high profiles to align with different foot and arch types, with the aim of influencing movement efficiency during pushes, turns, and stops.
    • A slim fit with minimal additional cushioning maintains close contact between the foot and the skate.
    • The heel design includes a decoupled structure and anti-slip U-ring to limit heel lift and increase stability.
    • A forefoot layer provides a barrier against pressure from skate rivets.
    • Perforations in the material allow airflow to assist with temperature regulation inside the skate.

    Currex Hockeypro insoles are designed for the movement patterns of hockey, with a slim profile intended to fit closely in the skate. Features include arch support, a heel lock to reduce movement, and forefoot protection from rivets.

    The thin design maintains skate fit but may provide less structural support under higher loads.

    Custom orthotics can be made to combine a low-profile fit with support tailored to an individual’s foot structure and movement patterns.

    Customized, anatomical fit that adapts to foot movement

    The decoupled heel effectively prevents slippage

    Ultra-slim design for an unhindered feel for the ice

    Some customers reported that they felt "too firm"

    Not enough forefoot padding for comfort

    6


    Elite Hockey Pro Skate Insoles

    Elite Hockey Pro Skate Insoles

    Satisfaction guarantee

    Within 60 days of purchase


    Delivery

    Depends on the retailer


    Coverage

    FSA/HSA eligible


    Payment options

    Credit cards, PayPal

    • Moisture and air vents in the footbed are positioned to allow warm air to exit and cooler air to enter, which can help reduce friction-related skin issues.
    • A contoured heel and arch shape direct weight toward the center of the skate, absorbing impact and helping to limit fatigue.
    • A lightweight, durable base distributes pressure evenly and provides a barrier against skate rivets.

    The Elite Pro hockey insoles use moisture-wicking materials, targeted support zones, and shock-absorbing elements to manage comfort and stability on the ice.

    Because the support is pre-formed, it is not specific to an individual’s foot structure. Custom orthotics are molded to the exact dimensions of the foot, which can allow for more precise alignment and targeted pressure relief during extended or high-intensity activity.

    Airflow and moisture-wicking channels keep feet dry and cool

    Deep heel cup and contoured shape promote efficient

    Extremely lightweight for more agility and speed

    Some users reported that the heel cup didn't hold their heel in place

    Delivery price depends on the retailer

    7


    Shock Doctor Active Performance Insoles

    Shock Doctor Active Performance Insoles

    Satisfaction guarantee

    Within 60 days of purchase


    Delivery

    Free 4–8 day shipping


    Coverage

    FSA/HSA eligible


    Payment options

    Credit cards, PayPal, Klarna with some retailers

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    • Adaptive arch technology allows the insole to flex in multiple directions, adjusting to different foot shapes.
    • The insole is made from shock-absorbing foam to help reduce stress on the joints of the feet, ankles, and knees.
    • A contoured design positions the foot to support alignment within the skate.
    • AirFlow channels are included to promote air circulation inside the boot.

    Shock Doctor Active Performance insoles use adaptive arch technology and full-foot cushioning to provide support and absorb impact during skating.

    The design accommodates a range of foot types, but it is not customized to an individual’s specific structure. Custom orthotics can be made to target particular pressure points and alignment needs, which may be relevant for skaters with recurring foot or ankle strain.

    Highly effective at absorbing impacts, reducing stress on the joints

    The Adaptive Arch technology ensures a personalized and comfortable fit

    Customers report that the insoles hold up well after a few years of use

    Not as hyper-specialized for hockey as other pairs on this list

    Some customers report that the metatarsal pad made them uncomfortable

    8


    Bauer Aetrex Hockey Insoles

    Bauer Aetrex Hockey Insoles

    Satisfaction guarantee

    Within 30 days of purchase + free returns


    Delivery

    Free 7–10 day shipping


    Coverage

    None


    Payment options

    Credit cards, GPay, Shopify Instalments, Shop Pay

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    • Developed in partnership with Aetrex, these hockey insoles are available in three fit options based on data from more than 50 million foot scans.
    • Dual-density polyurethane construction combines structural support with cushioning, while the memory foam layer provides immediate softness underfoot.
    • A ventilated forefoot and grip print are included to promote airflow and limit movement inside the skate.

    Bauer Aetrex Hockey Insoles are designed to provide support for common foot conditions such as plantar fasciitis.

    They stabilize the foot and reduce excess space in the skate, which can influence stride mechanics and comfort.

    The design is based on general foot profiles, whereas custom orthotics are made to the exact structure and biomechanics of an individual’s feet, allowing for more specific alignment and pressure distribution.

    Three fits to fit your exact arch type

    Developed with extensive foot scan data from Aetrex

    Customers have reported better balance, transitions, and stopping ability

    Very expensive, given that they aren't custom-made

    Discomfort during the initial break-in period

    9


    Graf Performance Skate Insole Footbeds

    Graf Performance Skate Insole Footbeds

    Satisfaction guarantee

    Depends on the retailer


    Delivery

    Depends on the retailer


    Coverage

    Depends on the retailer


    Payment options

    Depends on the retailer

    • Heat-moldable construction allows the insole to conform to the contours of the foot.
    • A rigid, rubber-like foam arch support is included to maintain structure under load.
    • The design aims to maintain close contact between the foot and the skate to reduce movement and direct force more efficiently to the blades.

    Graf Performance hockey insoles use a heat-moldable design to adapt to the shape of the foot, which can influence fit and energy transfer during skating.

    Heat molding customizes the insole to a general foot contour but does not replicate the precision of orthotics made from a direct mold of the foot, which can be designed for specific alignment and support needs.

    The heat-moldable feature allows for a personalized fit

    The rigid rubbery foam provides solid, non-collapsing arch support

    Many customers have reported that the insoles hold up without the arch collapsing

    You may need professional help for the heat molding process

    Retailers aren't widely available

    10


    Adrenaline Powerfoot Performance Skate Inserts

    Adrenaline Powerfoot Performance Skate Inserts

    Satisfaction guarantee

    Within 30 days of purchase


    Delivery

    $5.19 flat rate; delivery time depends on your address


    Coverage

    None


    Payment options

    Credit cards, PayPal

    • These insoles are designed to occupy the space between the toes and the toe cap of the skate, creating a closer fit inside the boot.
    • A soft foam layer rests on top of the feet to increase comfort and help retain warmth in cold environments.
    • By keeping the toes in place, the design reduces repeated contact with the boot in areas that could otherwise create pressure points.

    Adrenaline Powerfoot Performance hockey skate orthotics are designed to reduce unused space in the toe box, creating a closer fit between the foot and the skate.

    This adjustment can influence foot stability, control, and energy transfer during skating.

    For skaters looking to address fit and support across the entire foot, custom orthotics can be made to provide alignment and pressure distribution tailored to individual foot structure.

    Leads to a more planted feel and better control on the ice

    Helps keep toes warm in cold environments

    Can improve stability and explosiveness for goalies

    You might need to trim them with scissors for a perfect fit

    May not be compatible with skates with removable tongues (e.g., True Cat 9's)

    

    Preventing Injury With Hockey Insoles for Skates

    Skating demands exert considerable stress on your feet, making the arch an essential shock absorber. Inadequate support can lead to overpronation or foot supination, disrupting natural alignment and inviting pain and instability.

    These insoles promote a neutral foot stance, ensuring forces are distributed more evenly across the foot. This enhances biomechanical efficiency and minimizes the risk of overpronation. With the proper arch support, maintaining balance and control on the ice becomes second nature.

    » Looking to relieve foot pain? Check out the best insoles for supination

    Maximizing Agility and Minimizing Risks

    Players with proper arch support gain a competitive edge. By enhancing agility and minimizing injury risks, you gain a more controlled skating experience. While various insoles offer benefits, selecting the right ones is crucial.

    Upstep provides quality orthotics for ice hockey skates that stand out for their personalized support, tailored to each player's unique foot characteristics. Their insoles empower players to unleash their full potential on the ice by providing a sturdy base and eliminating discomfort, making them a top choice for enhancing balance and stability.

    A pair of insoles and a custom mold against a wall

    Improve your balance with custom orthotic inserts

    Improve the foot's function by combining the unique shape of your feet with layers of cushioning materials.

    180-day money-back guarantee

    Free shipping

    FSA/HSA Eligible

    

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