Has a work boot ever stopped working for you too soon?
Maybe you’re suddenly feeling knee pain after a long day at work, or maybe your threshold for standing has drastically reduced.
Don’t worry just yet. It’s not always the boot—and it’s not always because you’re getting old either.
Often, the insole your work boot comes with just doesn’t cut it.
To ensure your boots last as long as you do, we’ve rounded up the 12 best insoles for work boots.
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How Did We Come Up With Our List?
We spent hours researching each insole. We also take into account our personal experience with different types of insoles, how they affect us in a variety of situations, and how they work with several work boots.
To help you find the insoles most suited to your needs, we’ve broken them down into the categories that they excel in.
Should you put insoles in work boots?
If you struggle with knee or back pain, it’s possible that adding insoles to your work boots can help. If your boot comes with a removable insert, that makes it easy to add your own. Usually, I’ve found that the insoles that come with work boots are never that great, so I always add my own. Now some work boots like Red Wing don’t always allow for the removable insert, but in those cases, I’ve found they offer a lot of arch support from their steel shank, so an insole isn’t necessary in that case.
12 Best Work Boot Insoles That’ll Make Your Work Day Easier
Best Overall: TreadLabs Ramble Insoles for Comfort
The Ramble is my favorite insole that I've tried from Tread Labs. It offers plenty of cushion for the ball of my foot, and the extra flex in the mid-foot boosts the stability of my boot without affecting my arch too much.
Tread Labs is my favorite insole. I was turned off of insoles early on because I thought they were all gel or foam pads, and other brands made me feel like I didn’t have a firm footing.
When I put on a pair of boots, whether it’s for a hike or some pavement pounding in the city, I like to feel sturdy and secure.
My favorite boots like Red Wing and Wolverine have leather insoles, which last a long time, but they have the shock absorption of a tree stump. They’re not very comfortable when I stand or walk for long periods of time.
Tread Labs solved that problem for me. Because they use a firm plastic insert, I don’t feel like my heel is mooshing around, and because they feature high-density foam, I get enough shock absorption to feel like I can be out and about for 12 hours without paying for it the next day.
What I Like
Each insole comes with three different top pads so you can fit your new insoles comfortably into any type of boot or shoe.
They’re guaranteed for a million miles (which is another way of saying a lifetime).
I love how much variety there is: firmness, arch height, activity level, foot size—it can be a lot to navigate, but Tread Labs likely has something perfect for your unique foot.
Free US shipping and free returns.
What I Don’t Like
The amount of customization is hard to grasp at first, and the subtle differences between different models and foot pads can be difficult to see.
What Other Reviewers Say
Tread Labs is an excellent choice for anyone who wants a serious amount of support for their feet. If you don’t like the half-measures of a gel insert like Dr. Scholl’s, and you need something substantial because you’re on your feet all day, you’ll love Tread Labs.
The Verdict
The TreadLabs Ramble is the perfect middle ground balance between pain relief, arch support, and shock absorption so you can wear your work boots all day without feeling fatigued or sore the next.
The Ramble is my favorite insole that I've tried from Tread Labs. It offers plenty of cushion for the ball of my foot, and the extra flex in the mid-foot boosts the stability of my boot without affecting my arch too much.
Runner Up: Superfeet COPPER Comfort Plus Replacement Insoles
Superfeet COPPER Comfort Plus Replacement Insoles are the most versatile insole on the list. The combination of deep heels with a memory foam layer help them to conform to your foot, while the high volume/low profile build makes them inconspicuous in your work boot.
Superfeet COPPER Comfort Plus Replacement Insoles combine sophisticated insole technology with comfortable but robust material.
They take up substantial space in your boot which is great for cushioning, but the memory foam easily conforms to the contours of your foot so it doesn’t feel cramp. This versatility makes it easy to transition from a workshop or construction site straight to a boardroom.
The stabilizer cap is designed for those with low arches, but the middle memory foam layers allows this insole to literally accommodate any foot build.
What I Like
It has a lower arch shape than traditional insoles, so it sits subtley in your boot.
The middle layer of the insole is made of memory foam, which conforms to any foot shape.
The stabilizer cap is reinforced which helps support people with low arches.
It’s easy to maintain and can be hand washed and dried.
The deep heel absorbs shock, so they can be worn in low pressure and high pressure work environments.
What I Don’t Like
There’s a break-in period for those who’ve never used these insoles.
What Other Reviewers Say
Reviewers praise the versatility and durability of these insoles. They last the average reviewer about 8-10 months with heavy use.
A few reviewers suggest ordering a size up, otherwise the arch support won’t be in the right place.
The Verdict
Superfeet COPPER Comfort Plus Replacement Insoles are the most versatile insole on the list. The combination of deep heels with a memory foam layer help them to conform to your foot, while the high volume/low profile build makes them inconspicuous in your work boot.
Superfeet COPPER Comfort Plus Replacement Insoles are the most versatile insole on the list. The combination of deep heels with a memory foam layer help them to conform to your foot, while the high volume/low profile build makes them inconspicuous in your work boot.
Best Insoles for Work Boots on Concrete: Timberland PRO Anti-Fatigue Replacement Insole
Timberland PRO Anti-Fatigue Replacement Insoles feature their sophisticated Anti-Fatigue Technology that allows you to work on unforgiving floors for hours at a time. If you spend your work days on hard concrete or if you stand all day, these insoles will make your life easier.
Timberland PRO Anti-Fatigue Replacement Insoles feature the brand’s famous Anti-Fatigue Technology. This system is not only shock-absorbing, but actually takes the energy of the shock and returns it to your foot.
The synthetic soles are designed to keep you sturdy and safe, whether you’re standing still on hard concrete floors for hours or moving around varying terrain. However, these aren’t sport insoles and aren’t meant for constant movements that are sharp and sudden, so keep them out of your trainers.
What I Like
Timberland’s Anti-Fatigue Technology absorbs shock but also re-energizes your foot.
They’re a reliable and established brand.
The insoles are lightweight and easy to move around in despite the extra bulk.
What I Don’t Like
These tend to run big so you’ll likely have to trim them.
What Other Reviewers Say
Reviewers are satisfied with these Timberland insoles, many mentioning that they’ve made even cheap, old work boots more comfortable. Unsurprisingly, they also find they work best with Timberland work boots.
Reviewers also mention that these insoles are quite thick, and have to wear their laces less snugly.
The Verdict
Timberland PRO Anti-Fatigue Replacement Insoles feature their sophisticated Anti-Fatigue Technology that allows you to work on unforgiving floors for hours at a time. If you spend your work days on hard concrete or if you stand all day, these insoles will make your life easier.
Timberland PRO Anti-Fatigue Replacement Insoles feature their sophisticated Anti-Fatigue Technology that allows you to work on unforgiving floors for hours at a time. If you spend your work days on hard concrete or if you stand all day, these insoles will make your life easier.
Best Insoles for Flat Feet Work Boots: NAZAROO Shoe Insoles
NAZAROO Shoe Insoles offer the best arch support for its price range. These are for you if you have flat feet or if you need insoles for your work boots as well as your trainers.
The main strength of NAZAROO Shoe Insoles is their superior arch support, which comes from multiple features working together.
The deep heel cradle, which has built-in silicon, distributes and minimizes foot pressure and absorbs shock effectively.
There’s a layer of super dense foam that contours to your foot arch (or cushions the lack thereof) for reinforcement that’s supportive but comfortable.
What I Like
The built-in silicon and high-density foam minimize pressure, while the deep heel cradle provides heel support for pain relief.
These inserts are designed for all types of footwear, from work boots to running shoes.
NAZAROO offers a 100% money back guarantee.
What I Don’t Like
They aren’t low profile and will substantially change the way your shoe fits.
What Other Reviewers Say
Reviewers agree that the arch support and combination of high-density foam and silicon are helpful for those with flat feet. A few even claim they have the flattest feet their respective podiatrists have seen.
The Verdict
NAZAROO Shoe Insoles offer the best arch support for its price range. These are for you if you have flat feet or if you need insoles for your work boots as well as your trainers.
NAZAROO Shoe Insoles offer the best arch support for its price range. These are for you if you have flat feet or if you need insoles for your work boots as well as your trainers.
Best Gel Insoles for Work Boots: Dr. Scholl’s Massaging Gel Insoles
Dr. Scholl’s Massaging Gel Insoles don’t seek to change the wear of your shoes or add arches where there are none. They simply add a layer of super comfortable cushioning. It lacks a lot of extra features, allowing the gel technology to shine.
Dr. Scholl’s Massaging Gel insoles feature their Responsive-Wave Cushioning, which means there are multiple layers of gel in there. This allows the insole to respond differently to different levels of activity and impact.
These insoles are super simple and neutrally shaped. They absorb continuous shock, prevent your toes from rubbing up against uncomfortable insoles, and reduce leg fatigue.
What I Like
Multiple gel layers provide comfort whether you’re standing still for hours or going for a run.
There’s additional padding in the front that protects the balls of your feet.
They can be worn with any shoe.
What I Don’t Like
They aren’t very breathable, which isn’t great for sweaty feet.
What Other Reviewers Say
The reviewers range from waiters, to doctors and nurses, to warehouse workers. Overall, they’re satisfied with the extra lift in comfort and the lack of bells and whistles.
A few reviewers mention that the insoles can slide out of your shoe if there’s no lip to hold them in place.
The Verdict
Dr. Scholl’s Massaging Gel Insoles don’t seek to change the wear of your shoes or add arches where there are none. They simply add a layer of super comfortable cushioning. It lacks a lot of extra features, allowing the gel technology to shine.
Dr. Scholl’s Massaging Gel Insoles don’t seek to change the wear of your shoes or add arches where there are none. They simply add a layer of super comfortable cushioning. It lacks a lot of extra features, allowing the gel technology to shine.
Best Memory Foam Insoles for Work Boots: Happystep Memory Foam Insoles
Happystep Memory Foam Insoles relieve pressure points on your feet, even as they change depending on your activity. They’re thick but easily mold to your foot, making them perfect for newly developed pain.
Happystep Memory Foam Insoles are made of a high-density memory foam that’s thicker than the kind used in any work boot. It also features a springy 2-second rebounce. These insoles are a great option if you’re experiencing new foot pain, whether that’s from new requirements on the job or from aging.
Also, the thicker memory foam used in Happystep Insoles is more long-lasting than regular memory foam.
As an FYI, these insoles are vaguely shaped, so when you’re trimming down, you’ll have to take into account the shape of the boot as well as its size.
What I Like
The memory foam used to build these insoles is thicker than the kind used in most work boots for more cushion and durability.
They’re lightweight and feature an orthopedic full arch shell for extra comfort.
The padding keeps your feet warm throughout the day.
What I Don’t Like
Memory foam retains heat, so these can get uncomfortable when worn too long in hot weather.
What Other Reviewers Say
A noticeable amount of positive reviews came from the elderly, many of whom mention a positive change in their threshold for standing and walking when wearing these insoles. Many even mention that it helps their back pain.
Reviewers with wide feet notice that these insoles are narrow and that the edges of their feet hang out, so these may not be for bigger gents. A few commenters also mention that the bottom side of the insoles are a bit oily and slippery.
The Verdict
Happystep Memory Foam Insoles relieve pressure points on your feet, even as they change depending on your activity. They’re thick but easily mold to your foot, making them perfect for newly developed pain.
Happystep Memory Foam Insoles relieve pressure points on your feet, even as they change depending on your activity. They’re thick but easily mold to your foot, making them perfect for newly developed pain.
Best Insoles for Work Boots on Rock: Dr. Scholl’s Heavy Duty Support Insoles
Dr. Scholl's Heavy Duty Support Insoles distribute weight and absorb shock excellently. They’re for you if you’re a bigger guy, or if your job or hobbies have you running around outdoors on rocky or gravelly terrain.
Dr. Scholl’s Heavy Duty Support Insoles are actually designed for men over 200lbs, but their shock guard and arch guard technology make these insoles perfect for craigy or bumpy terrain.
As most insoles, these feature a deep heel cup. Additionally, they’re designed not to crowd toes. The combination of both features allows you to grip the ground more effectively than with an overly cushioned insole.
They’re also versatile and work with sneakers and dress shoes, as well as work boots.
What I Like
The shock guard technology lessens any blows to the heel.
The arch guard technology distributes weight evenly, which makes balancing on uneven and bumpy surfaces easier and more comfortable.
They come with a 60-day money back guarantee.
What I Don’t Like
There’s no option for men with shoe sizes smaller than an 8.
What Other Reviewers Say
In addition to the bigger guys this insole is designed for, many reviewers are lighter than 200lbs and use these insoles to fix their back pain and leg fatigue. They all praise the superior arch support and durability.
A few reviewers mention that the insoles are a bit noisy and recommended simply throwing some talcum powder on them.
The Verdict
Dr. Scholl’s Heavy Duty Support Insoles distribute weight and absorb shock excellently. They’re for you if you’re a bigger guy, or if your job or hobbies have you running around outdoors on rocky or gravelly terrain.
Dr. Scholl's Heavy Duty Support Insoles distribute weight and absorb shock excellently. They’re for you if you’re a bigger guy, or if your job or hobbies have you running around outdoors on rocky or gravelly terrain.
Best Insoles for Plantar Fasciitis Work Boot: Samurai Insoles
Samurai Insoles are medical grade inserts designed especially for relieving plantar fasciitis. I recommend these inserts for anyone experiencing foot inflammation and foot joint pain.
Samurai Insoles guarantee relief from plantar fasciitis pain. If you have inflammation between your heel and your bones, go for these insoles.
They’re constructed with a layer of polypropylene surrounded by a padded shell. This almost fully absorbs shock with each step. It also helps with realigning foot joints; plantar fasciitis is the swelling of the connective tissue by your heel, so realigning and cushioning that area greatly helps with symptoms.
What I Like
Samurai ensures its users that these medical grade inserts will quickly relieve pain from plantar fasciitis.
The slim and lightweight design fits in all types of footwear.
There’s a springy flexible inner core that bounces as you move.
What I Don’t Like
The front part of the insert is a bit flimsy and sometimes bunches up when you’re inserting it into the boot.
What Other Reviewers Say
Reviewers confirm that these insoles relieve PF pain. Uniquely, several reviewers reported that using Samurai insoles after long standing shifts also relieved general back and leg pain.
A few reviewers mention that it took some time for their feet to get used to these insoles, so there may be a break-in period for some people.
The Verdict
Samurai Insoles are medical grade inserts designed especially for relieving plantar fasciitis. I recommend these inserts for anyone experiencing foot inflammation and foot joint pain.
Samurai Insoles are medical grade inserts designed especially for relieving plantar fasciitis. I recommend these inserts for anyone experiencing foot inflammation and foot joint pain.
Best Insoles for Slip On Work Boots: EASYFEET Insoles
The flexibility of EASYFEET Insoles make them easy to slip into pull-on boots. They’re also durable enough for medical professionals working 12-hour shifts or athletes who are constantly moving.
EASYFEET Insoles are made of a material called thermoplastic polyurethane. It’s a plastic known for being tough, but also flexible which makes it easy to slip in through the shaft of a boot and pop into place at the foot.
These insoles also provide high arch support for extra comfort, and are made of layers of firm breathable and odorless polyurethane.
What I Like
It’s made of a durable plastic that’s also flexible.
It has layers of firm polyurethane foam for a breathable and unscented fabric.
A gel forefoot and air capsules add more cushioning for enhanced comfort.
What I Don’t Like
They run small for sizes 11.5 and up.
What Other Reviewers Say
Reviewers praise the insoles for being strong yet adaptable. Many reviews come from a range of athletes, from basketball players to equestrians, which is a testament to how well these insoles take constant movement.
Several give special, positive attention to the arch support.
The Verdict
The flexibility of EASYFEET Insoles make them easy to slip into pull-on boots. They’re also durable enough for medical professionals working 12-hour shifts or athletes who are constantly moving.
The flexibility of EASYFEET Insoles make them easy to slip into pull-on boots. They’re also durable enough for medical professionals working 12-hour shifts or athletes who are constantly moving.
Best Insoles for Work Boots and Knee Pain: FORM Premium Insoles
Between the FORM Premium Insoles’ custom molding and supportive yet strong construction, it’s the perfect insole for workers experiencing knee pain.
FORM Premium insoles are made of 80% EVA foam for extra thick cushioning and 19% polyurethane for shock absorption. They also custom form to your feet. These features work together to effectively mitigate knee pain from standing all day.
You can actually warm these insoles up before you place them in your boot so that they mold to your exact foot.
Additionally, the top layer is made especially to control moisture and odors, which is important if you’re on your feet for hours at a time.
What I Like
Unique custom molding feature enhances comfort and fit.
The EVA and polyurethane blend construction make these insoles strong and well-cushioned.
The Temperweave top layer neutralizes bacteria, which stops odors.
What I Don’t Like
They’re built a bit thin and don’t always accommodate especially wide feet.
What Other Reviewers Say
Reviewers find this insole to be a good option for relieving pain in general. In addition to knee pain, people with over-pronation, arch pain, heel pain, back pain, and shin splints all praise this insole’s comfort.
The Verdict
Between the FORM Premium Insoles’ custom molding and supportive yet strong construction, it’s the perfect insole for workers experiencing knee pain.
Between the FORM Premium Insoles’ custom molding and supportive yet strong construction, it’s the perfect insole for workers experiencing knee pain.
Best Insoles for Work Boots and Ball Foot Pain: ALINE Insoles
ALINE insoles are high-end and high-tech, which makes them perfect for relieving very specific foot pains. They’re high-performing and also great for athletic shoes.
ALINE Insoles feature over 100 flexing and rebounding ribs, which isolate your foot’s pressure points and allow the insole to work on each specifically. Basically, each part of your foot gets the support it needs when it needs it as you move around.
The structure of the ribs is mapped out on the insole with activation and compression zones, which are patented by ALINE so you won’t get this scientific design with any other insole.
The ALINE insoles also feature a heel cup for balance and stability.
What I Like
Biomechanical athletic technology is perfect for relieving nuanced foot pain.
The heel cup combined with the gel pad layer provides shock absorption and balance.
Patented activation and compression zones keep your feet aligned with your lower body as you move.
What I Don’t Like
They are solidly built and difficult to cut, so you’ll have to get the exact perfect size for these insoles to be effective.
What Other Reviewers Say
Reviewers agree that ALINE Insoles are sophisticated, comfortable, and effectively relieve ball foot pain. Several mention that they have high arches and small curled-up toes (both of which can lead to ball foot pain with too much exercise or tight shoes).
The only reasonable complaint I see is that a few believe these insoles to be overpriced.
ALINE insoles are high-end and high-tech, which makes them perfect for relieving very specific foot pains. They’re high-performing and also great for athletic shoes.
Best Insoles for Walking in Work Boots All Day: Jobsite Power Tuff Insoles
From substantial arch support to odor control, Jobsite Power Tuff Insoles are perfect additions to your work boots on those days you’re clocking in overtime hours. The antibacterial and antimicrobial qualities make them perfect for conditions like athlete’s foot.
The JobSite Power Tuff Insoles are made of a durable and resilient polyurethane with exceptional arch support to help keep your foot muscles relaxed even when you’re walking around all day. They also feature extra cushioning on the heel for impact absorption.
Jobsite has Aegis Microbe Shield Technology, which fights bacteria and fungus. This helps prevent odors from forming and fights them off when they do—an important feature if you’ll be walking a lot.
What I Like
The polyurethane construction makes these insoles resilient and durable.
The base’s nylon shell and extra cushioning on the heel provides all-day support.
The microbe shield technology fights odor-causing bacteria and fungus.
What I Don’t Like
They’re a bit narrow.
What Other Reviewers Say
Reviewers are impressed with how comprehensively supportive and comfortable these insoles are, especially for the price. Many mention that they use them for long days at work, as well as at the gym.
They’re also impressed with the microbe shield technology’s ability to prevent odors.
The Verdict
From substantial arch support to odor control, Jobsite Power Tuff Insoles are perfect additions to your work boots on those days you’re clocking in overtime hours. The antibacterial and antimicrobial qualities make them perfect for conditions like athlete’s foot.
From substantial arch support to odor control, Jobsite Power Tuff Insoles are perfect additions to your work boots on those days you’re clocking in overtime hours. The antibacterial and antimicrobial qualities make them perfect for conditions like athlete’s foot.
What are the Benefits of Changing the Insoles of Your Work Boots?
By changing the insoles of your work boots, you can personalize the feel and wear of the boots based on specific pain points. You might find you need a cooling insole, or specific arch support, or one that will help with joint pain, and so on.
Another benefit to changing your insoles is that doing so can extend the time of an older boot. You’d be surprised at how much life is left in a well-used work boot. Choose a new insole based on how the boot’s performance and wear changes with age.
Of course, the most important benefit to being more comfortable on the job is safety.
Key Things to Consider When Buying Insoles for Work Boots
Types of Insoles
Comfort Insoles: These are standard insoles for extra cushion that you can get at the drugstore.
Molded Insoles: These are molded to specific standards for qualities and symptoms such as flat arches or heel spurs.
Orthotic Insoles: These are just like molded insoles, but are custom-made for the individual wearer.
Material
Foam: Best for cushion and support. Memory foam specifically molds to the contours of your feet.
Gel: Best for shock absorption. Gel insoles are the most frequently bought insole.
Plastics and Synthetics: These can be built for different specific needs. For example, in this roundup, the plastic that the EASYFEET insoles are made from is used for its flexibility.
Size and Fit
Just like with your work boots, make sure you look into whether or not a particular insole runs big or small. You can always trim them, and likely will have to, but if the insole is built with a heel cap or ribbing, you must get as close to your size as possible so every part of your foot falls in the right place on the insole.
Arch Support
Insoles with added arch support help absorb shock at the middle of your foot. This can prevent plantar fasciitis from forming or returning if you’ve had it.
Shock Absorption
Shock absorbing insoles reduce stress on your joints and the soft tissues of your feet and legs. This is especially important for work boots because they help prevent common workplace injuries such as fractures, tendon problems, shin splints, and general discomfort. The best shock absorbers also bring the energy from the shock back to your feet.
Work Just Got a Lot More Comfortable
If convenience is your priority, EASYFEET Insoles are strong but flexible enough that they can get through a slip-on shaft, while the Superfeet COPPER Comfort Plus Insoles combine insole technology with durable materials, and are easy to maintain.
The Ramble is my favorite insole that I've tried from Tread Labs. It offers plenty of cushion for the ball of my foot, and the extra flex in the mid-foot boosts the stability of my boot without affecting my arch too much.
Looking for specific pain relief? The medical-grade Samurai Insoles are made to relieve plantar fasciitis pain and the Dr. Scholl’s Massaging Gel Insoles have great shock absorption because of their multiple gel layers.
The FORM Premium Insoles have custom molding which is great for knee pain, while ALINE Insoles feature biomechanical construction for super specific foot pains.
Specific requirements at work? The Timberland PRO’s Anti-Fatigue Technology is perfect for hard floors, as are the Happystep Memory Foam Insoles and the Dr. Scholl’s Heavy Duty Supports. If you’ll be walking all day, the Jobsite Power Tuffs can ensure you won’t form any offensive odors.
Once you figure out what you need specifically, you can enhance your work boots for a more comfortable and safer work day.
FAQs
How often should you change insoles in work boots?
Insoles typically need replacing every 6-12 months with regular use. Replace them immediately if they’re damaged or are no longer providing the support you need.
How do you remove non-removable insoles from work boots?
If a little bit of concentrated heat and pliers don’t work, the safest thing to do is to take them to a professional shoe repairer. All boots are constructed differently, and what’s safe for one boot isn’t necessarily safe for another.
How do you clean boot insoles?
Hand-wash your insoles with soap and water and let them air dry. For especially odorous insoles, submerge them in a solution that’s equal parts white vinegar and water for an hour before handwashing.
