Using Insoles to Perfect Your Fit: The Pro's Best Kept Secret
Is your shoe half a size too big? Don't return it. Learn how volume-adding insoles and heel grips can give you a custom-tailored fit.
We often think that if a shoe doesn't fit perfectly out of the box, it's a failure. But professional athletes and shoe enthusiasts know a secret: the 'factory insole' is meant to be replaced. By using the right aftermarket insoles, you can turn a 'roomy' size 10 into a 'perfect' size 9.75. Here is how to use accessories to fix common sizing issues.
1. Fixing 'Too Much Volume'
If the length is right but the shoe feels 'loose' overall, or there is a gap between the top of your foot and the laces, you need a Volume-Adding Insole. Products from brands like Superfeet or even a simple 3mm foam flat insole placed under your existing insole can lift your foot up, creating a snug, secure fit through the midfoot.
2. Stopping the 'Heel Slip'
Heel slip is often caused by a shoe being slightly too long or the heel cup being too wide. Instead of a full insole, use Heel Grips. these are small, padded adhesive strips that stick to the inside of the shoe's heel. They 'pinch' the back of your foot, preventing it from sliding up and down and eliminating the risk of blisters.
3. Customizing the Arch
Sometimes a shoe feels 'small' only because your arch is collapsing, which makes your foot longer. By adding an Arch Support Insole, you pull the foot back into its natural, shortened curve. This creates more space in the toe box and can often save you from having to buy a larger size that might be too wide elsewhere.
Conclusion: You are the Designer
Don't be afraid to experiment. Take your shoes to a reputable drugstore or shoe repair shop and try different thicknesses of foam. A $10 pair of insoles can save a $150 investment from sitting in the back of your closet. Your perfect fit is just one layer away.