If you love basketball, you know how important it is to maintain your gear and your game. Even more than your skill, you want to be sure that you’re keeping your body safe, so you can keep playing for years to come.
Whether you have plantar fasciitis or have noticed an aching pain recently while playing, you want to make sure that you take care of yourself. You want to keep your feet healthy, as this one part of the body, you can’t do without.
A great way to protect yourself is to use basketball insoles. These kinds of insoles help to keep your feet protected during the game. Because of the fast-paced nature of the game, the jumping, and transitioning, many athletes end up injuring their feet quite easily, when they don’t use the proper gear.
As a coach it, is one thing I recommend young players to start using, as it’s also a great way to prevent future injuries. The first few minutes might seem a bit strange, but even the most comfortable shoes can be made better with a simple insert.
The following reviews will help to give you an idea of what to look for, and the list contains the best products available right now.
Our Top 10 Best Basketball Insoles Recommendations
There are plenty of performance insoles to choose from, but the ones that we have compiled all offer great quality, good pricing, and attractive features. If you order today, you could have them ready in time for your next training session.
| Product | Feature | Rating |
|---|---|---|
#1 - Sof Sole Insoles Men’s Athlete Performance   | Comfortable And Protective
| 5.0 stars out of 5 |
#2 - WalkHero Plantar Fasciitis Insoles With Arch Supports   | Helpful For Plantar Fasciitis
| 4.5 stars out of 5 |
#3 - Spenco GRF Basketball Replacement Insoles   | Designed For Basketball
| 4.0 stars out of 5 |
Table of Contents
1. Sof Sole Insoles Men’s Athlete Performance: Comfortable And Protective
The Sof Sole insoles have been designed with ultimate comfort in mind. The gel pads in the heel and forefront area help to keep your feet cushioned throughout the game. With Hydrologix moisture management, your feet can stay dry while you’re on the court.
Their Neutral Arch design is made to fit most foot types, although it may be too wide for some. These insoles work well for those who use them casually, as well as athletes who need to add insoles to their shoes to protect them during their game.
The arch pad is flexible so that you can still transition easily, but it doesn’t sacrifice cushioning. They are made to last, which is highly attractive. Many competitor insoles typically tend to wear down faster, especially when it comes to athletes using them.
Thanks to the soft gel material on the underside of the insoles, they stay in place much better than some other options.
Pros:
- They have ideal arch support, making them a highly comfortable option for many
- They have cushioning in the heel and forefoot for overall comfort
- They stay in place well, so you don’t have to worry about fixing their position every few minutes
- They are made to last, so you can rely on them for durable use
- The help to eliminate pain while playing, thanks to their good support
Cons:
- Some people may not like how thick these insoles are, as it may make it difficult to fit them in some shoes
- They tend to make feet smell, which can be highly annoying for many users
2. WalkHero Plantar Fasciitis Insoles With Arch Supports: Helpful For Plantar Fasciitis
If you love your game but hate dealing with plantar fasciitis, you may want to consider this pair of insoles. When you’re looking for basketball shoes for plantar fasciitis, you could also consider insoles.
They do the job that they’re designed to but are much more affordable than a whole brand new pair of shoes. With anatomical arch support, this option helps your foot and leg alignment. If you happen to have flat feet, these insoles are very helpful.
The deep heel cup helps you to maintain the right position while walking or running. When you play sports like basketball, you end up on your feet a lot. So, these WalkHero insoles can be highly beneficial when spending hours standing or playing.
Made from premium EVA material, you can trust these to keep your feet safe from shock. They are also designed to keep your feet dry, even when you sweat.
Pros:
- They provide great arch support, which is helpful for those with flat feet
- They keep your feet dry at all times, which is always a good feature
- They have a deep heel cup to help those with plantar fasciitis, making them ideal for basketball players who have been suffering from pain
- They offer great quality for a fair price, which is what everyone wants to hear when shopping
- They help to eliminate pain associated with being on your feet for too many hours
Cons:
- The high arch may not be the best for everyone, so consider this before purchase
- They aren’t as soft and cushioned as some other options, which may matter to some people
3. Sof Sole Airr Performance Insole: Great For Impact Protection
As a basketball player, you have to be careful. All those jumps and dunks can mean sore feet, especially if you don’t land on some type of cushioning. These soles have a technology called Skydex, which are essentially air bubbles, designed to protect your arch and heel from impact.
The Polymer gel in the forefoot area is also helpful for absorbing the shock. Because basketball players move so much, their feet tend to get sweaty. This is where the Microban comes into play.
It keeps the odor bacteria at bay, so your feet can stay pleasant-smelling throughout your game. The COOLMAX fabric is yet another nice feature on these Sof Sole Airr insoles.
They keep moisture away, so you don’t end up with sweaty feet after a long and hot game. They are comfortable and durable, and while they aren’t the cheapest, they are certainly fair-priced for the quality offered.
Pros:
- Has great impact protection, making them ideal for basketball players
- They have moisture-wicking properties, so you don’t have to worry about your feet getting too sweaty
- Less chance of getting smelly, which is always a great thing when choosing insoles
- Sof Sole Airr are comfortable to wear, so you can play your game for hours on end
- They are soft enough for those who don’t like to wear hard insoles
Cons:
- They may be too thick for some people’s preferences and shoes
- The sizing is off, so be careful when choosing them for your shoes and check measurements
4. Shock Doctor Active Ultra Insole: Designed For Highly-Active People
This option has a unique feature of an adaptive arch technology. They adapt to any kind of foot shape, so they always provide the best support, no matter what type of feet you may have.
With a forefoot and heel shock pad, as well as a shock dome, you can be sure that these insoles will help to keep your foot protected from impact and shock. The mid-foot shock dome is especially beneficial for those with plantar fasciitis.
The full-foot motion control in these insoles helps to reduce stress on your feet and overall lower body. With full shock-absorbing foam throughout the design, you can be sure that these will feel comfortable to wear for as long as you’re on your feet.
A lightweight support cap helps to keep your foot cradled and protected. While they aren’t as cheap as some other options, they do offer great quality and star features for your comfort.
Pros:
- They have great cushioning, so you can stay comfortable during your game
- The adaptive arch technology helps to make them a versatile option for many
- They keep your foot protected throughout the game, thanks to great shock absorption technology
- They offer top support, so your feet don’t get tired, even after hours of hiking
- They are highly helpful for those who have plantar fasciitis, making them ideal for a lot of basketball players
Cons:
- They are a bit too thick for some people’s preference and can be difficult to fit in just any shoe
- It doesn’t have generous padding in the toe area, which could be irritating for some people
5. Physix Gear Sport Full Length Orthotic Inserts: Helpful For Foot Conditions
Just because you have painful conditions, such as plantar fasciitis or metatarsalgia, doesn’t mean that you can’t enjoy your favorite sports. For those who want to keep up with the game, these inserts may do the trick.
They have high arch support, which helps to relieve pain associated with foot conditions. They are made from durable, medical-grade, high-performance EVA foam, and PU material, so you can trust that they will last. They will also provide you with the cushioning you need, so you don’t feel every bump as you walk or jump. With a deep heel cradle, you can trust them to keep you stable.
The anti-microbial fabric helps to keep odor and bacteria away. Although they have great support and cushioning, they have a thin design that allows for easy use in any shoe. With an ergonomic non-slip design, they won’t slip around all over the place.
Pros:
- They are especially helpful for those with foot issues, thanks to their overall protective design
- They have ideal cushioning, so your feet won’t get bothered after hours on them
- They are helpful for those who are on their feet all day, thanks to the shock absorption features
- They offer great comfort and quality for a highly fair price, so you don’t have to break the bank for the best option for you
- They have a slim design, which means you’ll be able to wear them with any type of shoe
Cons:
- They aren’t as durable as some other options, which could be a negative factor for basketball players
- They lack support in the ball of the foot, which could affect some people
6. Pedag Viva Sport Semi-Rigid Orthotic: Ideal Support And Durability
These Pedag inserts can help those who need mid-foot support due to conditions. They have orthotic cushioning, which is helpful for when you want shock absorption on impact. While they are not machine washable, they can be hand washed and dry quickly.
Made from highly-resistant material, if there is one thing these inserts offer, it’s durability. You don’t have to worry about them giving up the ghost in just a few games. They have heel protective properties, so if you’re worried about keeping your heel safe, you can relax with these.
The durable material is also skin-friendly, which means that it has been designed with moisture-wicking features, and is also fungi-resistant. If you’re looking for a reasonably-priced option that will last and stay odor-free, consider this option.
Pros:
- They have ideal heel and midfoot cushioning and support to keep your feet protected at all times
- They can be hand-washed, so you can always keep them clean and nice smelling
- They are made from moisture-wicking, fungi-resistant materials, so you don’t have to worry about sweaty and stinky feet
- They help to keep your feet feeling comfortable and prevent fatigue, thanks to their unique design
- They have reliable shock absorption features, so your feet won’t be injured from impact in the game
Cons:
- They are a bit too narrow for some people’s foot sizes, so consider measurements before purchase
- They are a bit too thick, which could make them hard to fit in just any pair of shoes
7. Xcyliveus Inserts with Honeycomb Silica Gel Shock Absorber: Unique Design
These inserts like they would provide you with cooling relief, but their looks are a bit deceiving. What they can offer you is shock absorption. They have a special Honeycomb Silica gel that does wonders for keeping the effects of impact at bay.
This is also helpful for basketball players. Because they can be trimmed according to your size, you don’t have to worry if they arrive a little too large for your feet. The velvety-like surface helps them to feel soft to wear, which is always a nice feature on any insole.
They have a cushioning pad, which is helpful for those who need a bit of padding to keep their feet pain-free while walking or playing. They can be hand washed and air dried, so you can keep them clean and odor-free, whenever needed.
In fact, because of their unique design, these are some of the best insoles for basketball shoes for those who do not want to have smelly inserts in their shoes—they’re really easy to keep clean.
Pros:
- They can be trimmed, so you can always be sure that they will fit
- They offer ideal shock absorption technology, so you can trust them for basketball use
- They are soft and comfortable, so your feet won’t feel irritated when you wear them
- They offer breathability, thanks for unique holes in the design
- They are cushioned enough for your comfort, whether you use them for walking or for sports
Cons:
- They don’t offer the best arch support, which could be an issue for some
- They don’t have a deep heel cup, which could be a negative for those with foot conditions
8. Spenco GRF Basketball Replacement Insoles: Designed For Basketball
If you’re a basketball player, you’ll appreciate these insoles. They’ve been designed with your needs in mind. If you need arch support, you’ll like that the Spenco has just enough arch support for moderately high arches.
With specific features designed for your comfort, you can trust that they have just enough shock absorption for your feet to be protected from impact, while also being slim enough to fit in your shoe.
The TOTAL SUPPORT technology used for these insoles allows you to receive the support needed for your game. While they don’t have as much cushioning as some players would like, they have just enough to keep your feet feeling comfortable during your game.
Pros:
- They work well for basketball players, thanks to their unique design and features
- They aren’t heavy or too thick for your shoes, which is often an issue with insoles
- They do a good job of absorbing impact, which makes them ideal for basketball jumps and transitions
- They have good arch support, so you can stay comfortable playing for hours on end
- They offer good overall support, so you won’t get sore feet from playing
Cons:
- Some people prefer more cushioning than what these insoles have to offer
- They aren’t as affordable as some better quality options
9. WalkHero Orthotics Insoles For Flat Feet: Affordable And Supportive
These medical-grade inserts are helpful for people who may have anything from plantar fasciitis to overpronation. With semi-rigid arch support, they help to keep your foot stable, from the heel to the base of your foot.
Made from EVA cushioning foam, they help to absorb the shock of impact while playing basketball. The deep cradle also does wonders for your heel when you’re landing form your jumps.
The antimicrobial top cloth helps to keep odor at bay and also helps to keep your feet free from blisters. Best of all, these inserts are highly affordable.
Pros:
- They are helpful for those with foot conditions like flat feet or plantar fasciitis, thanks to their unique design
- The EVA foam is helpful in protecting your feet from the shock of impacts
- They are highly affordable, so you can easily afford more than one pair if need be
- They have a special feature for keeping bad smells away, which is always a must-have in any shoe
- They offer good arch support, so they are ideal for people who may need support during basketball games
Cons:
- They don’t offer the best protection for those with heel issues, which could be a negative for some people looking for protective insoles
- They aren’t as cushioned as some people would like, especially those who like memory foam-like inserts
10. Arscniek Neutral Bow Sport Leisure Insert: Breathable And Unique
A sleek pair of inserts, this option is for those who care about breathability. While you will be wearing them on the inside of your shoe, that doesn’t mean that they have to stink.
Thanks to the activated carbon sterilization they provide, they help to keep your feet odor-free. This feature also acts as a moisture-wicker, so you don’t have to worry about them getting soaked in sweat during a game.
The double-layer buffer structure design helps to keep your feet comfortable while you wear them. As far as shoe inserts go, the cushioning is pretty decent and many users say they achieve some pain relief as well. With decent arch support and shock absorption, they are suitable for most positions on the court.
They are designed to not be tied to a specific shoe size, so it doesn’t matter if you have large or small feet; if you buy your size, they should fit right for you. For their breathability and supportive comfort, they are highly affordable.
Pros:
- They are highly breathable, so you don’t have to worry about stinky feet
- They are good at keeping your feet dry, so you don’t have to be concerned about sweat
- They are affordable, so you don’t spend too much for comfortable feet
- They have a slim design, so your feet won’t feel trapped in your shoe
- They are more durable than many other options, making them a favorite option for many
Cons:
- They don’t have as good arch support as some other options, which could be a factor for those who must have optimal support
- They aren’t as cushioned as some people might prefer, which could be an issue if you rely on cushioning for pain relief
What Features You Need To Focus On
As you consider the above insoles for your basketball needs, you may like what you see. There are some options with great features and offered at excellent prices. Before you jump on one specific option, consider the following features and which pair would be best for you. Whether you have some type of condition like plantar fasciitis or simply have preferences, determine these things before spending your money.
Thickness
Some of the insoles offered above have great cushioning. This is wonderful for those who want enough to feel comfortable while walking or playing. The only downside to this may be when the insert is much too thick for your shoe.
Just because an insole is thin, doesn’t always mean that it isn’t protective enough. It’s important to determine the measurements and size beforehand, when possible. If the insole is too thick for your shoe, it can cramp your feet [1], making them highly uncomfortable.
Arch Support
Arch support is a must for some basketball players. If you happen to have flat feet or even plantar fasciitis issues, you want to be sure that you’re getting the right arch support for you and your needs [2].
Arch support is also important as it can help to protect you from injury. If you know that you need a medium to high arch support, look for the options that promise this in their description. This isn’t an area that you want to play with, as not wearing the right inserts could lead to more serious issues.
Cushioning
Because of the nature of basketball, many players want to wear insoles with cushioning. The time spent on the court, the impact from jumps, and the overall feeling of padding, helps many players look for options with cushioning.
You do want to be careful, though, as you don’t need to wear memory foam when playing to feel comfortable. In fact, if the inserts are too soft, they might not actually be protecting you from the shock of impact [3]. So, consider the level of cushioning that is right for you before purchasing insoles.
Moisture Wicking/Odor Protection
You’re probably going to use these for a long time to come. That’s why you want to look for options that promise to keep your feet dry and free from bad smells [4]. If you have found the holy grail of insoles for your basketball shoes, they may not be that cheap. If you don’t want to have to keep buying new ones, look for breathable options.
Along with these moisture-wicking designs, also consider ones that can be hand-washed. If you can wash the inserts, you can trust that they will stay odor-free and probably last for longer.
Shock Absorption
As a basketball player, you know what it’s like to jump and then fall and feel your whole weight in your heel or forefoot [5]. Ouch could be a word you say often. To protect yourself, make sure to get inserts that promise shock absorption.
Some offer more protection than others, so take your time to find the right level of shock protection for you. If you have serious foot conditions, it’s important to keep your feet protected, so they don’t progress. Always look for shock-absorption features in your inserts.
Common Foot Problems Basketball Players Deal With
If you’re new at the game, you may wonder why it’s so important to wear insoles. If you’ve been playing basketball for a while, you probably know. Basketball players often suffer from a variety of foot issues due to the nature of the game.
As a game that relies on your feet movements, jumping and landing, and fast transitions, one can only imagine how painful things can become after months and years of playing. Some issues from basketball are:
- Flat Feet-Your feet may have fallen arches due to the way that they play the game. If not taken care of by using the right insoles, this problem could become painful and cause a misalignment in your legs. If you have flat feet, look for the right orthotic inserts for your condition [6].
- Ankle problems-When a player isn’t using the right kind of shoe or inserts, they are more apt to the ankle injury due to impact. Landing wrong is one leading cause of ankle injury in basketball players, but wearing the right insoles can help to keep the impact away from your feet.
- Plantar fasciitis-Along with flat feet, basketball players tend to get plantar fasciitis. This is usually due to stress on your feet throughout the years, which, when not paid attention to results in plantar fasciitis. Wearing the right kind of shoes can help to minimize pain and keep it from getting worse. Plantar fasciitis can become unbearable for athletes when left uncared for, so pay attention to your feet [7]. If you feel like you’re developing this issue, do something about it before it’s too late.
- Broken toes-As with ankles, sometimes landing wrong during the game can result in injury. Broken toes are actually quite common for basketball players who go for the big jumps. It’s important to try to keep your feet protected, from heel to toe, so that you can avoid these kinds of injuries.
Of course, these are just a few conditions associated with basketball. Many other problems have to be with the appearance of your feet. From bunions to unsightly toenails, basketball is anything but friendly on one’s feet. Along with investing in the right inserts, also pay attention to the shoes that you’re wearing. They go hand-in-hand, or should we say foot-in-foot?
FAQ
Do NBA players wear orthotics?
Yes, NBA players wear orthotics pretty much all the time. In no other sport does an athlete exert more pressure and stress on their feet than in basketball. Through constant running, sudden direction and motion changes, and relentless jumping, feet become the most injury-prone area of the body.
Can you put insoles on top of insoles?
No, you shouldn’t put insoles on top of insoles. It may seem like a way to get maximum thickness, but the foam of an insert is not designed for this. If a single basketball insole isn’t enough, then a better quality one is your next stop.
Do basketball insoles work?
Yes, basketball insoles do work, and they are vital products to ensure less impact energy is transferred to your feet. The cushion effects of the foam and fabric also provide additional support for wide and narrow feet.
Do insoles hurt at first?
Yes, a basketball insole may hurt at first, especially if you have flat feet or other underlying issue. If this is the case, then try wearing them for walking around a couple of hours a day first.
Do insoles make shoes tighter?
Yes, insoles can make shoes tighter because they reduce the empty space inside the shoe. This is something you need to factor in when buying shoes by going an additional size up.
Conclusion
If you want to keep your feet safe during your favorite sport, consider using inserts. Your feet deserve to be taken care of, and you’ll be able to play for many more years when you take care of them.
The above options are just a few that are available on the market. Some have more cushioning than others, while other options have better features for keeping your feet dry and fresh.
What are your reasons for looking for inserts? If it’s related to health or injuries, you could always ask your doctor what they recommend that you look for. Problems like plantar fasciitis or shin splints could end up with you not being able to play basketball if they are left untreated. Stay safe and choose the inserts that are right for you and your game!