What are Insoles?
Insoles are pieces of material you place inside your shoes or boots for extra comfort, warmth, and a better fit. The best insoles for work boots on concrete are those with arch support, shock absorption, comfort, and breathability.
Are you looking for the best insoles for your situation? Keep reading, and the options available will amaze you! Let’s dig in!
Who Needs Insoles for Their Shoes?
Do you spend most of your time on concrete surfaces? Well, you might want to get yourself a pair of insoles for standing on concrete. Here are examples of individuals who need insoles for their shoes:
Rodeo Enthusiasts
Comfortable insoles can make a difference if you spend long hours in the saddle or walking around the rodeo grounds. Your feet will thank you after a day of riding and roping.
Cowboys on Concrete
If you are a rancher, a cowboy, or a wrangler working on concrete surfaces, you understand the toll it takes on your feet. In this sense, you need insoles for working on concrete to provide the extra support you need to keep working without feeling like you’ve been in a stampede!
Stable Hands and Grooms
The continual hustle on concrete floors can cause sore feet for people working in the stables. Luckily, insoles designed for work boots provide the cushioning they require to navigate the stable easily.
Ranch Workers
You need sturdy footwear to tend cattle, repair fences, and handle other tasks on the ranch. Insoles tailored for work boots on concrete will ensure that all your steps are comfortable, regardless of how demanding the task is.
Rodeo Grounds Crew
Every rodeo has behind-the-scenes heroes working on the grounds to ensure everything runs smoothly. These heroes need comfortable insoles that will provide the necessary support to work hard throughout the day.
Benefits of Wearing Insoles
Wearing insoles while working on concrete offers many benefits. Here is why you need insoles for standing on concrete:
They Alleviate Foot Pain
Insoles offer enhanced comfort, cushioning, and foot support. Consequently, they help reduce pressure points, absorb shock, and prevent soreness and fatigue.
They Improve Posture and Alignment
Insoles contribute to better posture and alignment, which can benefit your body as a whole. Furthermore, they support your feet, promote natural cushioning, and limit foot fatigue. This is beneficial for individuals working in physically demanding environments.
They Reduce the Risk of Injuries
Because insoles align your feet into a healthy position when standing, walking, and running, they help reduce the likelihood of injury. They also help prevent the development of foot disorders by absorbing foot pressure and providing support.
They Enhance Comfort and Shock Absorption
Insoles optimize the shoe’s properties, making them more stable and improving cushioning. These features provide additional comfort and shock absorption, essential for people working in challenging terrains.
They Promote Long-Term Foot Health
Wearing insoles can lead to structural improvements in the feet, regulating movement and benefiting the whole body. The benefits they bring to you contribute to long-term foot health, especially if you work in physically demanding environments.
Our Favorite Insole for Working on Concrete
Our team of researchers worked closely with individuals working on concrete surfaces to find out which insoles stand out. In the review, they discovered that Superfeet All-Purpose Support High Arch Insoles insole is the crème de la crème for insoles for working on concrete.
This brand stood out because it offers superior relief and alignment, provides pain relief and comfort, and uses durable polyurethane materials. We also loved its versatility, which makes it suitable for a wide range of shoes.
An Overview of Our Picks
- Superfeet All-Purpose Support High Arch Insoles –Best overall insole
- Protalus T-100 Elite – Best women’s insole
- EASYFEET Plantar Fasciitis Strong Arch Support Insoles – Best for heavy-duty support
- Dr. Scholl's Work All-Day Superior Comfort Insoles – Best for heel pain relief
- Superfeet Copper-Cushioning Memory Foam Arch Support Insole – Best for a customized fit and comfort
- Timberland PRO Men's Anti-Fatigue Technology Replacement Insole – Most durable insole
- CRUVHEAL Plantar Fasciitis High Arch Support Insoles – Best for high arch support
- FORM Premium Insoles Maximum Support – Best anti-fatigue insoles
Our Insole Deep Dive
Superfeet All-Purpose Support High Arch Insoles – Best Overall Insole
The Superfeet All-Purpose Support High Arch Insoles offer unmatched comfort and support for both men and women. For example, Superfeet uses high-density foam and a trim-to-fit design, allowing you to customize the insole to fit your shoes.
Additionally, the insole has a sculpted heel cup that offers premium arch support and natural shock absorption. Its features make it ideal for roomy footwear, and the Mositurewick top cover helps control odors. If you want to address common foot issues like plantar fasciitis (this is a condition that involves the inflammation of the plantar fascia, arch pain, and heel pain, this is an ideal choice.
Brand: Superfeet
Size:
- 9.5 – 11 men/ 10.5 – 12 women
- 2.5 – 5 men/ 4.5 -6 women
- 5.5 – 7 men/ 6.5 – 8 women
- 7.5 – 9 men/ 8.5 – 10 women
- 11.5 – 13 men/ 12.5 -14 women
- 13.5 – 2 little kid
- 13.5 – 15 men
- 15.5 -17 men
Material: Polyester
Pros:
- Durable construction
- The high-arch design offers maximum support
- High-profile shape for stability
- Fabric top for minimal shifting and step-in comfort
- The stabilizer cap supports the rearfoot
Cons:
- It may be bulky for smaller-sized shoes
Protalus T-100 Elite – Best Women’s Insole
Experience the ultimate comfort and support with Protalus T-100 Elite insoles. Thanks to its new design and premium materials, the insole does not require a break-in period. Additionally, it aligns with your body, reducing stress on ankles, knees, and hips by up to 31%.
It is ideal for multiple shoe types and offers unmatched comfort and better weight distribution. If you work on concrete surfaces for long hours, this insole ensures you experience less pressure on your feet, allowing you to work comfortably.
Additionally, its design helps relieve plantar fasciitis. This is a hard, fibrous band of tissue that runs along the foot’s sole.
Brand: Protalus
Size: 5, 5.5, 6, 6.5 7, 7.5, 8, 8.5, 9, 9.5, 10, 10.5, 11, 11.5, 12
Material: Polyurethane
Pros:
- Dynamic alignment
- Enhanced comfort
- Versatility
- Durable construction
- Targeted arch support
Cons:
- Its price is higher compared to other insoles in the market
EASYFEET Plantar Fasciitis Strong Arch Support Insoles – Best for Heavy-Duty Support
This EASYFEET insole offers heavy-duty support for individuals weighing over 220 pounds (99.79 kilograms). The insole’s unique design enables it to provide plantar fasciitis relief. Additionally, it ensures proper arch support, stability, and weight distribution.
It comes with shock-absorbing pads and non-slip fabric, ensuring every step you make is twice as comfortable, reducing joint stress. This insole allows you to enjoy daily comfort and support without leg fatigue.
Brand: EASYFEET
Size:
- L (men 11-12.5/ women 12-13.5)
- XS (men 4.5-6.5/ women 5.5 – 7.5)
- S (men 7-8.5 / women 8-9.5)
- M (men 9-10.5 / women 10-11.5)
- XL (men 12.5 – 14.5 / women 13.5-15.5)
Material: Polyurethane foam, thermoplastic polyurethane, gel
Pros:
- Durable construction
- Comfort and shock absorption
- High arch support
- Multiple sizing options
- Support for heavy users
Cons:
- Less flexibility
Dr. Scholl's Work All-Day Superior Comfort Insoles – Best for Heel Pain Relief
You’ll experience all-day comfort with Dr. Scholl’s Work All-Day insoles, which the manufacturer specially designed for hard-working feet. Their unique design also eliminates tiredness and achy feet caused by long hours of standing or working.
Moreover, the brand uses a patented gel wave technology that reduces impact on muscles and joints. The insole’s adaptive cushioning and Polygiene StayFresh Technology will keep your feet comfortable and fresh, enhancing productivity. It is also easily customizable for a perfect fit, making it the best insole for standing on concrete all day.
Brand: Dr. Scholl’s
Size: 6-10 women
Material: Gel
Pros:
- Responsive wave cushioning
- Supportive arch
- Extended massaging gel
- Adaptable
- Clinically proven
Cons:
- Might not fit shoes with tight fits
Superfeet Copper-Cushioning Memory Foam Arch Support Insole – Best for a Customized Fit and Comfort
Get the Superfeet Copper-Cushioning Memory Foam Arch Support Insole to elevate your comfort during hard work. Superfeet engineered this insole for individuals enduring long hours. For example, the pressure-sensitive memory foam molds to your foot’s unique shape, delivering a custom fit and unmatched comfort.
Additionally, the memory foam offers extra shock absorption, alleviating foot stress for premium comfort. Healthcare professionals have given the insole a thumbs up, and it is ideal for flat, medium, and flexible feet. You’ll also enjoy rear foot support thanks to its heel stabilizer and reinforced stabilizer cap.
Brand: Superfeet
Size:
- 9.5 – 11 men / 10.5 – 12 women
- 2.5 – 5 men / 4.5 – 6 women
- 5.5 – 7 men / 6.5 – 8 women
- 7.5 – 9 men / 8.5 – 10 women
- 11.5 – 13 men / 12.5 – 14 women
- 13.5 – 15 men
Material: Polyester, polyurethane foam
Pros:
- Comfortable
- Durable
- Built-in odor control
- Versatile fit
- Customizable
Cons:
- Not suitable for heavy-duty use
Timberland PRO Men's Anti-Fatigue Technology Replacement Insole – Most Durable Insole
This durable insole by Timberland is among the best insoles for working on concrete floors, thanks to its premium engineering that enhances performance and comfort. For instance, its design includes an exclusive inverted cone foam that absorbs shock, returning energy to your feet.
Additionally, the insole has an anatomically contoured footbed that adapts to various foot shapes for maximum comfort. The insole also boasts an Outlast top cover with temperature regulation and antimicrobial odor control.
Brand: Timberland
Size:
- 5-6 XS
- 6-7 men US
- 8-9 men US
- 10-11 women US
- 12-13 men US
- 14-15 men US
Material: OrthoLite, synthetic
Pros:
- Multiple sizes
- Dynamic arch design
- Anti-fatigue technology for all-day comfort
- Adaptability
- Durability
Cons:
- Might be too thick for certain boots
CRUVHEAL Plantar Fasciitis High Arch Support Insoles – Best for High Arch Support
Amazon Choice Award in Insoles by CRUVHEAL
The Plantar Fasciitis High Arch Support Insoles have a unique design that ensures superior comfort and relief. They are available in multiple sizes, so you’ll find the right size for your foot. Moreover, they are heavy-duty insoles catering to users weighing over 220 pounds (99.79 kilograms). Their 1.4 inches (3.56 centimeters) arch allows them to distribute body weight, reduce foot impact, and relieve pain.
If you have lower back issues or foot fatigue after long hours on your feet, this insole has got your back, quite literally! What’s more, they are compatible with most shoe types.
Brand: CRUVHEAL
Size:
- M (9–10.5 men/ 10–11.5 women)
- XS (4.5 – 6 men / 5.5 – 7 women)
- S (6.5 – 8.5 men / 7.5 – 9.5 women)
- L (11 – 12.5 men / 12 – 13.5 women)
- XL (13 – 14.5 men / 14 – 15.5 women)
Material: Thermoplastic polyurethane, gel
Pros:
- Stability
- Built-in heel support
- Special gel pads for superior shock absorption
- Equal load distribution
- Reduces foot impact
Cons:
- Require a brief adjustment period. The first three to seven days may cause small foot pressure because of arch support adjustment.
FORM Premium Insoles Maximum Support – Best Anti-Fatigue Insoles
You need this premium anti-fatigue insole if you stand on concrete for long hours. Men and women can use this insole that offers prolonged shock-absorbing comfort and enhanced foot stability. Moreover, it has a comfort-shaped arch design that reduces stress on your feet and knees, making them ideal for your workdays.
FORM created these insoles for plantar fasciitis and heel, arch, and back pain. With its custom fit and optional molding feature, you can rest assured you’ll enjoy maximum support as you work.
Brand: FORM Premium Insoles
Size:
- 5.5-6 women
- 6-6.5 men / 7.5-8 women
- 6.5-7 women
- 7-7.5 men / 8.5-9 women
- 8-8.5 men / 9.5-10 women
- 9-9.5 men / 10.5-11 women
- 10-10.5 men / 11.5-12 women
- 11-11.5 men / 12.5 women
- 12-12.5 men
- 13-13.5 men
- 14-14.5 men
- 15-15.5 men
Material: Leather
Pros:
- Extra cushioning
- Custom form-fitting
- Versatility
- Temperweave fabric to reduce moisture and odor
- Heel cup design for maximum support
Cons:
- It is relatively more expensive than other insoles on the market.
What to Look for in Insoles
Comfort
Most comfortable insoles for work boots have gel-like materials for extra cushioning to the feet. Such insoles absorb the impact when you walk on hard surfaces like concrete.
Support
It is best if the insole you buy provides maximum arch support while walking. This ensures even weight distribution, relieving pressure on specific foot areas.
Alignment
A good insole should help realign your ankle and lower body and control your feet’s movement as you walk on the concrete surface.
Durability
A good insole should last at least six months. Check the product description for its durability. You can also read user reviews to find real-life experiences.
Design
The insole you buy should fit the design of your working boots. Different types of footwear have unique designs, and you need an insole that fits perfectly for maximum support. For example, work boots require insoles that provide extra cushioning and support to protect the feet from hard surfaces and long working hours.
Arch Height
Ensure you don’t buy an insole that’s too high or too low. The insole’s arch height should match your feet to make it effective.
Insole Size
Picking the wrong insole size would not be helpful at all! Please ensure the size you choose fits your shoe size. Luckily, manufacturers provide a size chart to help you pick the right one.
Weight Distribution
When shopping for an insole, take some time to read the product description to find out if it offers an even weight distribution. You can also go through user reviews online to ensure you don’t buy an insole with uneven weight distribution, which could cause back pain problems.
Insole Material
Insole material will help you determine whether the brand you choose is fit for purpose. Here are popular insole materials to consider:
- Gel inserts: These inserts are usually ideal for users interested in shock absorption. They also offer a perfect fitting.
- Foam inserts: These insoles mostly focus on cushioning. Therefore, they are ideal for users seeking comfort.
- Cork inserts: This insole style is for support and a bit of cushioning. They are popular for their ability to mold to the foot’s unique shape.
- Leather inserts: These insoles are excellent for users looking for comfort and “feel.” They offer a comfortable and natural feel.
Breathability
Lack of breathability can cause excessive sweating, which can cause you to pick up a fungal infection. Therefore, ensure the insole you pick offers an ideal level of breathability that allows your feet to stay cool.
Anti-bacterial
Did you know shoes are among the common places bacteria reside? Ensure you get insoles with anti-bacterial features to keep the bacteria away and your feet safe.
Compatibility
By the way, you don’t have to get insoles for each shoe pair. Here’s the trick – buy a pair of insoles compatible with most of your shoes, including work boots, sneakers, and casual shoes.
Flexibility
Overly rigid insoles will be very uncomfortable when moving around. Please get insoles that allow your feet to bend a bit. A flexible insole has materials such as foam and gel and are ideal for cushioning and shock absorption. On the other hand, cork insoles are rigid and ideal for support.
Trimming
If you’re having trouble finding the right insole size, go for brands that allow trimming. When you trim such insoles, you won’t compromise their durability.
Ease of Cleaning
The cleanliness of your insoles is crucial if you’re to reap the benefits. Therefore, get an insole that is easy to clean – a machine-washable insole would be preferable.
Thickness
Are you vertically compact? Thick insoles provide a subtle way to boost your height. However, ensure you get the right thickness to avoid making your feet feel suffocated in the shoe.
FAQs
How Does Working on Concrete Affect Me?
When you work on concrete for a long time, you risk developing conditions such as plantar fasciitis, ingrown toenails, bunions, and lower back pain.
Does It Matter Which Shoes Go With the Insoles?
Yes. For example, it wouldn’t be sensible to put your comfortable insoles inside worn-out shoes as they won’t offer the stability needed for the insoles to be effective.
How to Clean and Maintain Insoles
Use these tips to clean and maintain insoles:
- Don’t force-dry the insoles. For example, direct heat or leaving them in sunlight can deform them.
- Soak insoles in vinegar essence to get rid of odor.
- Clean leather insoles using leather-cleaning products.
- Wash synthetic insoles using soap suds. Use cotton towels to dry them.
- Please don’t leave them inside the shoe for the whole night. This prevents them from drying naturally.
How Long Do Memory Foam Insoles Last?
Depending on your usage pattern, they can last between one to six months. Their soft construction means they’ll struggle to last more than six months.
Which Is Better? Memory Foam or Gel Inserts?
Memory form will be the best choice if you want comfortable, lighter insoles. On the flip side, gel inserts are better for shock absorbency.
Final Thoughts
The best insole for your work boots on concrete depends on several factors. Luckily, the details in this comprehensive guide will help you select the best insole for your unique needs.
Nonetheless, if you’re in a hurry, the Superfeet All-Purpose Support High Arch Insoles are an excellent place to start. Get a pair and enjoy dynamic alignment, versatility, enhanced comfort, and durability. With this insole, you don’t have to worry about lower back pain, foot aches, and plantar fasciitis. Get your pair today!
