Have you recently noticed that your feet require additional support? You have two options for shoe inserts or custom orthotics, depending on whether you need more cushioning or want to correct persistent pronation or gait difficulties.

 

Let’s identify each product and what it does now, as well as go over the advantages of each.

 

What you pick will be determined by your needs, pain management, comfort, and any persistent difficulties with your feet that affect your daily life and activity level.

 

What is the purpose of a shoe insert?

A shoe insert, at its most basic level, is something that inserts into your shoe to improve the fit or make it more comfortable to walk or run in. Shoe inserts are available over the counter at most pharmacies, grocery stores, and shoe stores, and come in a modest range of sizes to fit most shoes.

 

What is the difference between an orthotic device and a brace?

Instead of simply padding your feet, a custom-made orthotic device is custom-made to fit your feet and can act to correct them. This implies you will experience less discomfort in the short term.

 

Each device is custom-made for you, taking into account your specific measurements, eating preferences, and foot shape. For example, if you have a stiff, high arch as well as bunions, your custom orthotics can be designed to address both of these conditions.

 

Choosing Between Custom Orthotics and Off-the-Shelf Inserts

When comparing bespoke orthotics to over-the-counter shoe insoles, it’s all about the details.

 

When viewed side by side, they can appear to be quite similar.

 

When you look at each of their attributes, though, you’ll notice how varied they are in terms of fit, usability, durability, and pricing.

 

Fit

When purchasing OTC shoe inserts, they will arrive constructed in a standard size, which the consumer must trim down to fit their shoes. If you’re not an expert, this can be tough – and if you trim too much, you’ll have to go back to the store and buy a new pair.

 

In addition, the sizes of our shoes vary slightly. You might find that once you’ve trimmed your insoles to fit into one pair of shoes, they won’t fit into any other.

 

Because custom orthotics are built to your exact specifications, they won’t need to be trimmed to fit.

 

When you purchase from IDEASTEP Orthotics, you may also get an orthotic and shoe combo. Before your orthotics are dispatched to your door, we’ll make sure they fit precisely in your chosen pair of shoes.

 

Utility

If you don’t have any previous foot concerns and just want more cushioning in a pair of shoes you wear frequently, over-the-counter shoe inserts are a good option. They cannot treat foot problems and may exacerbate them if a person continues to use over-the-counter shoe inserts rather than seeing a doctor or podiatrist.

 

Even if you buy a shoe insert for a certain problem, it will not match your foot form and will not take into account factors like gait, posture, or weight.

 

Custom orthotics, on the other hand, are manufactured to your exact specifications and are meant to provide support where you need it most. They do a better job of keeping your feet and ankles in a functionally optimal position, which improves your stride and lowers strain throughout your body.

 

Durability

Over-the-counter shoe insoles have a six-month average lifespan. This means you’ll need to buy at least two pairs of shoes per year.

 

Why? Because OTC shoe inserts are composed of soft materials like rubber or silicone, they wear out quickly. These materials do not have the same level of durability as those utilized in the production of custom orthotics.

 

The majority of custom orthotic devices are made of high-quality materials such as leather, carbon fiber, and cork, and can last for up to five years before needing to be replaced. These materials were chosen for their capacity to give support as well as their ability to bear impacts and pressure without wearing out.

 

Custom orthotics are also made to be breathable, with antimicrobial materials to guarantee that they don’t accumulate odors over time. This is important information for those who have overactive sweat glands or a condition called hyperhidrosis.

 

Price

This is usually the reason why someone chooses over-the-counter orthotics over custom orthotics. Over-the-counter shoe inserts can cost anywhere from $12 to $30, while custom orthotics can cost anywhere from $199 to $600.

 

While OTC shoe inserts are far less expensive than custom options, there’s a reason for that. Custom orthotics are more expensive because of the materials, molding, and craftsmanship that goes into their manufacture. They’re created to your exact specifications, so you can rely on them for years.

 

Time is a valuable commodity. So, while OTC inserts may not break the bank right away, the time it takes to replace worn inserts, re-buy insoles for new shoes, or get rid of stinky inserts means less time to enjoy life.

 

Going bespoke can save you money because you’re investing in a high-quality product manufactured particularly for you and designed to last a long time.

 

IDEASTEP Orthotics can help you find your perfect fit.

Are you looking for a pair of orthotics to aid you with your continuing gait, posture, and foot issues? Our bespoke orthotics at IDEASTEP Orthotics are constructed to your specific measurements and can last for years.

 

You may find orthotics that support your needs and outstanding brands delivered directly to your door, whether you have one continuing issue that has been causing you pain or numerous concurrent concerns that need to be corrected.