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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

  • The Flybridge™ design attempts to channel energy and absorb vibration, but its effectiveness varies widely without customization.
  • An anatomically shaped heel cup tries to secure the foot, though it may not prevent all unwanted movement in the skate.
  • A thin profile with ventilation holes seeks a close fit and air circulation, but it can feel inadequate during prolonged sessions.
  • The Moisturewick™ top cover handles some moisture and odor, yet it doesn't match the comprehensive protection of custom insoles.

The Superfeet Hockey Performance Insoles aim to offer some structural support, transferring energy between the foot and skate. But they fall short for many hockey players due to their pre-made design that lacks true personalization.

In demanding sports like hockey, less personalization can lead to suboptimal performance and discomfort compared to fully custom options like Upstep orthotics, which are tailored to your foot's unique contours.

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

    • Swappable arch inserts allow basic adjustments for different arch heights, but fine-tuning is limited.
    • Heel cup with energy transfer zones aims to boost speed and power, though results can be inconsistent.
    • Focuses on power direction to the blade, but without full customization, it may not optimize on-ice performance as effectively.
  • The CCM insoles feature adjustable arch support and energy transfer tech that's supposed to improve foot alignment and force efficiency to the skate blade, improving speed and stability.

    But their limited adjustability doesn't compare to the exact, individualized fit of true custom orthotics, often resulting in less precise support for serious skaters.

    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 for low, mid, or high arches offer rough matching, but lack true personalization.
    • Integrated heel cup and arch support aim to minimize movement, though it may not hold up under intense play.
    • Metatarsal support distributes pressure somewhat evenly, but could still lead to localized issues without customization.

    True Genetix insoles provide basic support and attempt to address pressure points using a 3D foot last based on general anatomy, which might reduce some discomfort during skating.

    That said, this generic approach pales in comparison to the precision of custom-molded orthotics, potentially leaving gaps in alignment and support for individual needs.

    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

    • Arch support in low, medium, or high profiles tries to improve movement efficiency, but options are too broad for precision.
    • Slim fit maintains contact with the skate, yet minimal cushioning can lead to fatigue.
    • Decoupled heel with anti-slip U-ring reduces some lift, but stability isn't guaranteed for all users.
    • Forefoot layer shields against rivets, and perforations aid airflow, though overall durability may be lacking.

    Currex Hockeypro insoles target hockey movements with a slim profile, arch support, heel lock, and forefoot protection, but their thin design often provides insufficient structural support under heavy loads.

    For better results, you should aim for custom orthotics like Upstep that offer a superior blend of low-profile fit and tailored reinforcement.

    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

    • Vents promote air circulation to reduce friction, but may not fully prevent skin issues.
    • Contoured heel and arch direct weight centrally and absorb some impact, though fatigue can still set in.
    • Lightweight base evens out pressure and blocks rivets, but lacks the depth of custom engineering.

    These insoles incorporate moisture-wicking materials, support zones, and shock absorption for basic comfort and stability, but their pre-formed nature means they're not optimized for individual foot structures.

    Custom solutions like Upstep provide far more accurate alignment and relief, especially during long or intense matches or practices.

    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

    • Adaptive arch flexes to fit shapes, but adjustments are imprecise.
    • Shock-absorbing foam reduces some joint stress, though not as targeted as custom options.
    • Contoured design aids alignment, and AirFlow channels circulate air, but overall support can feel generic.

    With adaptive arch tech and full-foot cushioning, Shock Doctor Active Performance Insoles aim to support various foot types and dampen impacts, but their non-customized design often fails to address specific pressure points or strains.

    For skaters with ongoing issues, orthotics molded specifically to their foot shape are the better choice.

    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

    • Based on data from 50 million scans, offering three fit options, but still not individualized.
    • Dual-density polyurethane with memory foam provides cushioning, though it may compress unevenly.
    • Ventilated forefoot and grip print encourage airflow and reduce slippage, but customization is missing.

    Designed for conditions like plantar fasciitis, Bauer Aetrex Hockey Insoles stabilize the foot and minimize excess space, potentially aiding stride and comfort.

    But relying on general profiles rather than exact measurements makes them less effective than custom orthotics like Upstep for precise biomechanics.

    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 material conforms to contours, but precision is limited.
    • Rigid foam arch maintains some structure, though it may not endure heavy loads.
    • Aims for close foot-skate contact to efficiency force, but movement reduction isn't optimal without full customization.

    Graf Performance Skate Insole Footbeds adapt somewhat to foot shape for better fit and energy transfer. But they're only made using general contours, lacking the accuracy of direct-molded custom orthotics like Upstep for targeted support.

    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

    • Occupies space between toes and cap for better fit, but limited to forefoot.
    • Soft foam adds comfort and warmth, though it may not prevent all pressure points.
    • Keeps toes in place to avoid contact issues, but lacks whole-foot support.

    Focused on filling toe box space for a closer fit, Adrenaline Powerfoot Performance Skate Inserts may enhance stability and control, but they only address part of the foot, ignoring comprehensive needs.

    Full custom orthotics like Upstep deliver superior all-around alignment and performance benefits.

    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