6 Best Insoles for Tennis Players With Posterior Tibial Tendonitis
Updated February 1, 2024.
Pivots, quick forward and sideways movements, sudden jars and jolts—tennis can be rough on your lower limbs. But if you have posterior tibial tendonitis, the resulting pain, instability, and unsteady gait can worsen your gameplay and limit your performance significantly.
However, wearing the right insoles can help you manage your symptoms by providing the necessary arch support, relieving pain, and minimizing the strain on your posterior tibial tendon.
Now, we know the number of insoles available in the market can make it hard to decide. That’s why we've compiled the below list to give you a head start.
» Experiencing Achilles tendon pain after playing tennis? Prevent discomfort with the best tennis shoes for Achilles tendonitis
1. Upstep | Achilles Tendon Custom Orthotics
Pros
- Custom-made
- Comfortable and durable
- At-home impression kit
- FSA & HSA eligible
- 180-day money-back guarantee
Cons
- Short waiting period before receiving orthotics
Upstep has some of the best insoles for posterior tibial tendonitis. Designed based on your foot shape, Achilles Tendon Custom Orthotics from Upstep improve comfort and keep your feet in an optimal position to reduce any strain and redistribute your weight equally. Made to fit your lifestyle and address the specific causes of your condition, these custom insoles are affordable and durable.
2. Superfeet | ME3D Max Insoles
Pros
- Custom-made
- 3D printed
- Odor control
- 60-day guarantee
Cons
- Biometrics must be measured at a retailer
- Waiting period before receiving insoles
Superfeet ME3D Max Insoles are custom-made according to your foot biometrics. These 3D-printed insoles are covered with Poron® Vive foam for extra cushioning and odor control. The personalized arch support increases your stability and enhances your natural motion, thereby improving your overall performance during a tennis game.
However, your biometrics can only be measured in person at a retailer. This may be inconvenient compared to the at-home kits of competitors.
3. SOLE | Softec Response Insoles
Pros
- Eco-friendly recycled wine cork base
- Suitable for most athletic shoes
- Odor control
Cons
- Not specifically designed for tennis players or posterior tibial tendonitis
- Molding process may result in incorrect fit
Softec Response Insoles from SOLE have a versatile fit and are suitable for a range of activities. They provide moderate cushioning and aim to improve balance, while encouraging natural foot alignment to distribute any weight and pressure placed on your feet equally.
However, the "do-it-all" footbed is not specifically designed for tennis players or posterior tibial tendonitis, instead targeting overall athletic activities and other conditions like plantar fasciitis. The insoles must also be molded to your feet after applying heat. If done incorrectly, the molding process can provide insufficient support.
4. Protalus ET-75 Insoles
Pros
- Thin and comfortable design
- Suitable for low-volume shoes
- Anti-slip ridges
- 90-day money-back guarantee
Cons
- Not custom-made
- May not find ideal fit and support
Protalus ET-75 Insoles feature a unique tri-planar alignment system that aligns your body neutrally to reduce pressure, increase comfort, and provide support with each step during a game. The anti-slip ridges secure the insoles in your shoes while the thin design is ideal for low-volume and narrow shoes.
However, these insoles are not custom-made and you may not find a size that provides the ideal fit and support.
5. TreadLabs | Dash Thin Insoles
Pros
- Ultra-firm support
- Carbon fiber arch support in 4 sizes
- Odor control
- Million mile guarantee
Cons
- No custom support or fit
- May be better suited for other sports and conditions
TreadLabs Dash Thin Insoles provide ultra-firm support to enhance your biomechanics. The carbon fiber arch support eases the pressure off your feet while maximizing your energy return and boosting your performance while you play.
While the arch support comes in 4 sizes, you may not find the ideal fit for your needs. The insoles may also be better suited to other conditions like flat feet and other shoes like cycling shoes and cleats.
6. URthotics | Comfort+ Insoles
Pros
- Custom-made
- At-home impression kit
- FSA & HSA eligible
- 6-months money-back guarantee
Cons
- Waiting period before receiving orthotics
URthotics Comfort+ Insoles are custom-made based on your foot imprints and needs. These custom insoles have a soft top layer to increase comfort, especially if you have sensitive feet, and aim to reduce metatarsal pain. The complete contact of the insole with your arches helps to redistribute any pressure placed on your feet while you play tennis.
Choose a Custom Orthotics, Choose Upstep
As a tennis player, we don't have to tell you how demanding tennis is, especially regarding your feet. Whether you play recreationally or professionally, if you have posterior tibial tendonitis and are in it for the long haul, you must take proper care of your feet to prevent your condition from worsening (and potential injuries).
Custom orthotics as treatment for posterior tendonitis can help to alleviate and manage your symptoms, because they're designed for you and your needs as opposed to an over-the counter insole that provides blanket support. On the other hand, if you're struggling with plantar fasciitis, rest assured as Upstep has the best insoles for tennis players with the condition.
