Walking boot insoles: when an upgrade helps

What a stock insole does

The removable footbed in a boot sits on top of the midsole. It adds some cushioning, gives a smooth surface for the sock and absorbs some sweat. Makers use different footbeds: some listings name them, such as Meindl's Air-Active insole or OrthoLite insoles in some Salomon and La Sportiva models.

Stock insoles are usually fairly flat with a shallow heel cup, designed to suit as many feet as possible. Over time they compress and can lose their shape.

Types of aftermarket insole

Insoles are often sold by arch height (low, medium, high) and by volume. Choose by your foot shape and how much room your boot has.

When an upgrade makes sense

An insole is not a cure for a boot that is the wrong size or shape. If a boot is too short or too narrow, a thicker insole makes it worse.

• The stock insole has flattened or worn out.
• Your foot feels loose in the boot even when laced well, and a fuller insole could fill the space.
• Your heel moves side to side and a deeper heel cup could hold it better.
• You want more cushioning on long days on hard tracks.
• You prefer the feel of a contoured insole that matches your arch.

Note:Off-the-shelf insoles are comfort products. If you have ongoing foot, knee or back pain, or a diagnosed foot condition, see a GP or podiatrist for advice rather than relying on a shop-bought insole.

How insoles change fit

Every insole has thickness and shape. A structured or high-volume insole raises your foot in the boot, which reduces room over the instep and toes and can push your heel higher in the heel cup. That can help a roomy boot, but turn a good fit into a tight one.

Always try boots on with the insoles you plan to use. If you are buying new boots and already use aftermarket insoles, take them to the shop or try them in the boots at home before wearing them outside. Our what size walking boots guide explains how to check toe room and heel hold.

Check your boot size →

Sizing and trimming

Do not trim the heel or arch area; only the toe is designed to be cut.

1. 1

   Buy the insole size range that includes your boot size.

2. 2

   Take out the stock insole and lay it on top of the new one, heels aligned.

3. 3

   Draw around the toe of the stock insole onto the new one.

4. 4

   Trim a little outside the line with sharp scissors, then test in the boot.

5. 5

   Trim more if needed: the insole should lie flat without curling at the toe or sides.

Women's and men's insoles

Women's insoles are often narrower at the heel and shaped for lower volume, matching women's boot lasts. If you wear women's boots, a women's insole usually fits better. If you have wide feet, check that the insole is not narrower than the boot's base.

If you are still choosing boots, look at whether the stock insole is removable. Most walking boots, such as the Lowa Renegade GTX Mid Ws, list a removable insole. Our guides to waterproof boots for women and walking boots for wide feet compare models.

Frequently asked questions

Do walking boots need new insoles? Not necessarily. Many walkers are happy with the stock footbed. Replace it when worn or if a different insole improves the fit.

Can I use Scarpa boots with aftermarket insoles? Yes, most Scarpa boots have removable footbeds. Check the fit with the new insole in place.

Do insoles make boots tighter? Most aftermarket insoles are thicker than stock ones and reduce room, especially high-volume types.

How often should insoles be replaced? When they flatten, crack or stay smelly after washing.