Verdict on Tennis Orthotics

[RedClayFan]

Orthotics or insoles seem to be one of the few ways us mere mortals without sponsorships and custom shoes can really improve the shoes we play in. In theory, they can allow for better comfort, better energy return, and injury prevention. However, I've also heard that Federer never played with insoles in his shoes and some on this forum have attested that they think this is the best way to play.

Ultimately, the topic seems quite confusing. Podiatry doesn't seem like a hard science and there is good reason to believe that short of having massive foot issues, most people will not benefit from nor need custom orthotics that provide too much support and weaken the foot muscles. Additionally, there are questions about shoe design and whether the shoes are designed with the insoles in mind, and if so, how does replacing (or removing) that impact things? Finally, from the range of thin, OTC insoles available such as those by Superfeet, which appear to be among the most well-regarded for tennis, it's difficult to really know what their performance benefits are, if any.

What is the final word on all of this? I'd love to get a discussion going about how one can go about assessing if custom insoles are worth it and if so, what the best ones are.

 

[innoVAShaun]

I just ran a search for "best insoles" and these came up:

Best Insoles for Plantar Fasciitis

There are many insoles for PF. Which one is the best for playing tennis?

tt.tennis-warehouse.com

The best insoles

Please share your minds, what's your favorite insoles for extra cushion.

tt.tennis-warehouse.com

Best insoles for tennis?

Are there insoles that are specialized or especially good for tennis? Maybe something is wrong with my swing mechanics, but my insoles tend to wear out around the right big toe area. It has led me to think that insoles with good cushion and added padding beneath the big toe would benefit my...

tt.tennis-warehouse.com

Best insoles for calf problems?

Hi, Another thread from me to try and get some advice on how to look after and do the best thing for my weak calf muscles. I am undergoing intense training and exercise to strengthen the muscles for getting further tears and strains, but going forward I want to use some really good insoles...

tt.tennis-warehouse.com

Best Insoles for calf muscle problems?

Hi, Another thread from me to try and get some advice on how to look after and do the best thing for my weak calf muscles. I am undergoing intense training and exercise to strengthen the muscles for getting further tears and strains, but going forward I want to use some really good...

tt.tennis-warehouse.com

Insoles - best one for tennis shoes?

I've tried super feet, soles, and a variety of retail insoles and because i have really high arches, I haven't found anything good. I was wondering if it's worth it to spend 100's of dollars on getting custom insoles? I notice that Raonic, Djokovic, and a lot of pros use insoles. I am not...

tt.tennis-warehouse.com

The best thing since sliced bread... Cadence Insoles!

Hello all tennis fans. Anyone that has fit issues with shoes take a good look at Cadence Insoles. They enhance any shoe that are medium width to wide very nicely. I put them in my Breathe Cage. I've tried just about all insoles and these are the best ones in my book. Perfect combination of...

tt.tennis-warehouse.com

What are the best insoles?

I looks like i got my mind made up about New Balance 822s since i have the wide feet, and since i just had my Meniscus Surgery last Sep (5 months ago) i would like to get the most cushining possible. What are the best insoles i can get? most cushion is what i am looking for. thanks in advance.

tt.tennis-warehouse.com

Cadence Insoles

I would first like to say that I am not affiliated with the company in any way. These are absolutely the best insoles I have tried (and I have tried many)! Also, the customer service has been superb.

tt.tennis-warehouse.com

Bama Raquet Insoles, better than Sof Sole?

Hi! i am looking for the best cushioned shoes and also looking for insoles to get more cushion and stability. I thought that Sof Sole were the best Insoles but I found out this Insole specially for tennis. Has anyone used it? Any opinions? http://www.theshoelace.co.uk/acatalog/info_500201_5.html

tt.tennis-warehouse.com

Best inexpensive insoles?

I personally have a pair of Dr. Scholls, used a pair for high school in my Air Max 1’s(super stiff foam, felt so much better) and I have one in my Gel res 8’s, the fit is perfect I can literally wear one pair of semi thick socks now and get a 1 to 1 fit. However I’ve seen dozens of other insoles...

tt.tennis-warehouse.com

Best insoles for sore knees

I've never worn insoles before until I tried out Spencos. I don't really have anything to compare them to. Is there anything better for me? How do the cheaper insoles for around $10 compare to the Dr. Scholl's custom fit? I've read a lot of reviews and it seems like it can go either way...

tt.tennis-warehouse.com

Best Insoles For Ball Of Foot Cushioning!!

jus wondering if any of you players use insoles and which one works best for you!! i need way more cushion in the metatarsal area(ball of foot) and in heel.. i already have 2 gel type inserts in my shoes but just wondered if ther is a better/magical type of shoe insert that i dont know...

tt.tennis-warehouse.com

Recommendations for insoles

Hi, I'm looking to buy an insole that will provide support for my high arches. I do remember wearing Spenco insoles many years ago and they seemed ok. Just wondering what is now considered the best insole for overall support and high arches. Thanks, Eric

tt.tennis-warehouse.com

Insoles for normal feet

Hello, i work as a couch. My favourite shoe for training is the Lotto Raptor (2010). The support in the middle of the sole is the best. I also own Nike 2k10, CB 2.3+3.3, Asics GR2. The Nike CB2.3 hurt on the outside of the middle of the sole. Which sole should i try? What are the...

tt.tennis-warehouse.com

best insoles, other than SuperFeet?

hi, i wear the Barricade VI, and i usually don't have any major feet issues, apart from minor pains and maybe some knee 'after shocks'. i wanted to hear about some of your favorite choices of sport insoles, or let's say, the leading brands around here? i already read all and found that most of...

tt.tennis-warehouse.com

Tread Labs Insoles

Hey all. I wanted to start a thread for insoles and one of the best ones that I have tried is insoles from a company called Tread Labs. It is a semi-custom orthotic, meaning that there are 4 arch heights to choose from (low, medium, high, extra high). The pace insole is made of high grade...

tt.tennis-warehouse.com

Which insoles do you recommend?

I have a slightly pronated feet and I use insole to reduce the impact on other parts of leg. Only issue, I've with them is that they are hard with smoother material on top - so, what this does is.. make it a little slippery within the shoe when I use nice smooth socks On my little search on...

tt.tennis-warehouse.com

shock doctor court insoles

Good day all, I looked for some feedback on these insoles here before and couldn't find anything. So I decided to try them not expecting anything extraordinary. Boy was I pleasantly surprised, I normally wear superfeet black (in cb4.3 & lb) but since lb found the sf black to bring me too...

tt.tennis-warehouse.com

Insoles- Cushion

I have been having forefoot pain recently and it hasnt gone away. I thought it was maybe the thin cushioning of my vapor 9s, but I played in my 4.3s and still had pain. I was wondering if anyone could recommend some insoles that would provide more cushion for my whole foot. Doing some...

tt.tennis-warehouse.com

best insoles?

Have had some minor knee issues in the past and I'm looking for a good insole to use (in an Air Court Ballistec 2.3) as a preventative thing to help the cushioning a bit for the joints. I have high arches and fairly wide feet. Any suggestions?

tt.tennis-warehouse.com

That's only from page 1 of 7

 

[jmacdaununder2]

I eventually developed plantar fasciitis in both feet; I was close to surgery but custom orthotics have kept me relatively pain free for several years.
Unfortunately they are hideously expensive and only a small percentage is covered by anything but top level private health insurance.
Only barefoot running fanatics - perhaps the fraction of a percent of the population that actually have perfect physiology and are still young - would suggest that they weaken your feet.

 

[Lorenn]

I eventually developed plantar fasciitis in both feet; I was close to surgery but custom orthotics have kept me relatively pain free for several years.
Unfortunately they are hideously expensive and only a small percentage is covered by anything but top level private health insurance.
Only barefoot running fanatics - perhaps the fraction of a percent of the population that actually have perfect physiology and are still young - would suggest that they weaken your feet.

There are also different ways to work through it. I changed from high drop shoes to low drop. Admitted I needed to pick proper shoes. Switched to wider shoes. Worked on overall flexibility. Foot Roller designed to increase blood flow. Wore braces at night. The braces made sure feet were in proper position for healing.

On the other hand orthotics helps prevent further damage. I think combining the two approaches might be best. Switching to minimalist shoes did help. I never did get to full barefoot shoes, but one step away. Now I aim for low drop neutral shoes with a wide toebox.

 

[RedClayFan]

I just ran a search for "best insoles" and these came up:

That's only from page 1 of 7

The issue I found though is people are talking about orthotics in terms of foot issues. Where I was trying to come at this thread from is more about tennis performance. Meaning, which qualities of an insole will give best performance (energy return, stability etc), how to assess whether different insoles with positively or negatively impact a shoe for example.

For those of us without feet issues and who are looking to gain a bit of an edge performance wise, orthotics seem like a good solution. However, it's super unclear to me even having trawled through so many of the old threads, as to what qualities we should be looking for to improve our movement not feet pains/issues.

 

[silentkman]

I eventually developed plantar fasciitis in both feet; I was close to surgery but custom orthotics have kept me relatively pain free for several years.
Unfortunately they are hideously expensive and only a small percentage is covered by anything but top level private health insurance.
Only barefoot running fanatics - perhaps the fraction of a percent of the population that actually have perfect physiology and are still young - would suggest that they weaken your feet.

I had plantar fasciitis too and the doctor suggest i change my shoes. I have not worn that manufacture's shoe since.

 

[jmacdaununder2]

The issue I found though is people are talking about orthotics in terms of foot issues. Where I was trying to come at this thread from is more about tennis performance. Meaning, which qualities of an insole will give best performance (energy return, stability etc), how to assess whether different insoles with positively or negatively impact a shoe for example.

For those of us without feet issues and who are looking to gain a bit of an edge performance wise, orthotics seem like a good solution. However, it's super unclear to me even having trawled through so many of the old threads, as to what qualities we should be looking for to improve our movement not feet pains/issues.

Orthotics are heavy, why would you bother?

 

[CoachBon]

I wear an OTC orthotic when I play tennis for a variety of reasons. 1. it cured a couple of foot issues 2. it made the "fit" of my shoes better (feel more custom tailored) which in turn made it feel like I was quicker and could stop/cut/move better. I don't have any factual evidence or data that says I play better with them, but as in most things tennis, it helps with the confidence/mental factor at the very least

To the point above at orthotics being heavy, I would disagree. When the orthotic goes in, the factory insole comes out. The difference between the two is less than 1/4 of an ounce per foot. I don't notice that difference

I would never comment on what orthotics are "the best" because like shoes, its all about what works best with your feet. I tried a few OTC orthotics before I landed on ones that felt the best. There was one in particular that I hated, and a guy I play with who wears those same ones loves them and said they help his foot pain immensely. I tried a pair that were one of Foot Dr Zachs top rated and didn't like them. They were a fine product, they just fit the way I wanted.

Ultimately how I found the ones I wear and love now was by visiting a local running shop. I am fortunate to have a shop in my neighborhood that has been around for 30+ years and has a very knowledgeable staff. They had a tool that analyzes the shape of your foot and from there they got me in the correct insole

For reference I use Spenco Polysorb walker/runner

Polysorb Walker/Runner Insole

The Spenco Polysorb Walker Runner Insole offers contoured, flexible support to walkers, runners, and joggers looking for additional comfort and cushioning. It also provides targeted shock absorption for rear foot impact. Ideal for use in athletic, running

www.spenco.com

 

[armandogomes]

I'm not sponsored but I swear by Footbalance insoles. Custom mold, thin, lightweight, and fairly durable.

 

[jimmy8]

Orthotics or insoles seem to be one of the few ways us mere mortals without sponsorships and custom shoes can really improve the shoes we play in. In theory, they can allow for better comfort, better energy return, and injury prevention. However, I've also heard that Federer never played with insoles in his shoes and some on this forum have attested that they think this is the best way to play.

Ultimately, the topic seems quite confusing. Podiatry doesn't seem like a hard science and there is good reason to believe that short of having massive foot issues, most people will not benefit from nor need custom orthotics that provide too much support and weaken the foot muscles. Additionally, there are questions about shoe design and whether the shoes are designed with the insoles in mind, and if so, how does replacing (or removing) that impact things? Finally, from the range of thin, OTC insoles available such as those by Superfeet, which appear to be among the most well-regarded for tennis, it's difficult to really know what their performance benefits are, if any.

What is the final word on all of this? I'd love to get a discussion going about how one can go about assessing if custom insoles are worth it and if so, what the best ones are.

First of all, the bold statement above is possibly wrong. Maybe over support where the arch support is too high for your foot might be providing too much support. But at first reading that bold statement, it sounds like supporting your foot weakens the foot muscles, and under-supporting the foot helps keep the foot strong. Your plantar fascia just told me that you are wrong and you are tearing your plantar fascia from under support and you will soon get plantar fasciitis.

Every person is different. You need to get the insoles that work for you. Everyone has different size feet, width, arch height, malformations, injuries, etc. Get what works for you. If it's the expensive custom insoles, then get them if you can afford them. It will be cheaper in the long run. I have tried like 30-40 insoles and I keep trying more. I'm currently using Dr Scholls Float on Air in New Balance Fresh Foam X Lav v2. I don't recommend this setup for others. It's working for me right now, but that might change. The Lav v2 are amazing shoes - so much comfort, but still responsive, it's incredible how they did that! The Float on Air insoles have great comfort and some arch support. The Lav v2 have some arch support too.

 

[jimmy8]

I just ran a search for "best insoles" and these came up:

Best Insoles for Plantar Fasciitis

There are many insoles for PF. Which one is the best for playing tennis?

tt.tennis-warehouse.com

The best insoles

Please share your minds, what's your favorite insoles for extra cushion.

tt.tennis-warehouse.com

Best insoles for tennis?

Are there insoles that are specialized or especially good for tennis? Maybe something is wrong with my swing mechanics, but my insoles tend to wear out around the right big toe area. It has led me to think that insoles with good cushion and added padding beneath the big toe would benefit my...

tt.tennis-warehouse.com

Best insoles for calf problems?

Hi, Another thread from me to try and get some advice on how to look after and do the best thing for my weak calf muscles. I am undergoing intense training and exercise to strengthen the muscles for getting further tears and strains, but going forward I want to use some really good insoles...

tt.tennis-warehouse.com

Best Insoles for calf muscle problems?

Hi, Another thread from me to try and get some advice on how to look after and do the best thing for my weak calf muscles. I am undergoing intense training and exercise to strengthen the muscles for getting further tears and strains, but going forward I want to use some really good...

tt.tennis-warehouse.com

Insoles - best one for tennis shoes?

I've tried super feet, soles, and a variety of retail insoles and because i have really high arches, I haven't found anything good. I was wondering if it's worth it to spend 100's of dollars on getting custom insoles? I notice that Raonic, Djokovic, and a lot of pros use insoles. I am not...

tt.tennis-warehouse.com

The best thing since sliced bread... Cadence Insoles!

Hello all tennis fans. Anyone that has fit issues with shoes take a good look at Cadence Insoles. They enhance any shoe that are medium width to wide very nicely. I put them in my Breathe Cage. I've tried just about all insoles and these are the best ones in my book. Perfect combination of...

tt.tennis-warehouse.com

What are the best insoles?

I looks like i got my mind made up about New Balance 822s since i have the wide feet, and since i just had my Meniscus Surgery last Sep (5 months ago) i would like to get the most cushining possible. What are the best insoles i can get? most cushion is what i am looking for. thanks in advance.

tt.tennis-warehouse.com

Cadence Insoles

I would first like to say that I am not affiliated with the company in any way. These are absolutely the best insoles I have tried (and I have tried many)! Also, the customer service has been superb.

tt.tennis-warehouse.com

Bama Raquet Insoles, better than Sof Sole?

Hi! i am looking for the best cushioned shoes and also looking for insoles to get more cushion and stability. I thought that Sof Sole were the best Insoles but I found out this Insole specially for tennis. Has anyone used it? Any opinions? http://www.theshoelace.co.uk/acatalog/info_500201_5.html

tt.tennis-warehouse.com

Best inexpensive insoles?

I personally have a pair of Dr. Scholls, used a pair for high school in my Air Max 1’s(super stiff foam, felt so much better) and I have one in my Gel res 8’s, the fit is perfect I can literally wear one pair of semi thick socks now and get a 1 to 1 fit. However I’ve seen dozens of other insoles...

tt.tennis-warehouse.com

Best insoles for sore knees

I've never worn insoles before until I tried out Spencos. I don't really have anything to compare them to. Is there anything better for me? How do the cheaper insoles for around $10 compare to the Dr. Scholl's custom fit? I've read a lot of reviews and it seems like it can go either way...

tt.tennis-warehouse.com

Best Insoles For Ball Of Foot Cushioning!!

jus wondering if any of you players use insoles and which one works best for you!! i need way more cushion in the metatarsal area(ball of foot) and in heel.. i already have 2 gel type inserts in my shoes but just wondered if ther is a better/magical type of shoe insert that i dont know...

tt.tennis-warehouse.com

Recommendations for insoles

Hi, I'm looking to buy an insole that will provide support for my high arches. I do remember wearing Spenco insoles many years ago and they seemed ok. Just wondering what is now considered the best insole for overall support and high arches. Thanks, Eric

tt.tennis-warehouse.com

Insoles for normal feet

Hello, i work as a couch. My favourite shoe for training is the Lotto Raptor (2010). The support in the middle of the sole is the best. I also own Nike 2k10, CB 2.3+3.3, Asics GR2. The Nike CB2.3 hurt on the outside of the middle of the sole. Which sole should i try? What are the...

tt.tennis-warehouse.com

best insoles, other than SuperFeet?

hi, i wear the Barricade VI, and i usually don't have any major feet issues, apart from minor pains and maybe some knee 'after shocks'. i wanted to hear about some of your favorite choices of sport insoles, or let's say, the leading brands around here? i already read all and found that most of...

tt.tennis-warehouse.com

Tread Labs Insoles

Hey all. I wanted to start a thread for insoles and one of the best ones that I have tried is insoles from a company called Tread Labs. It is a semi-custom orthotic, meaning that there are 4 arch heights to choose from (low, medium, high, extra high). The pace insole is made of high grade...

tt.tennis-warehouse.com

Which insoles do you recommend?

I have a slightly pronated feet and I use insole to reduce the impact on other parts of leg. Only issue, I've with them is that they are hard with smoother material on top - so, what this does is.. make it a little slippery within the shoe when I use nice smooth socks On my little search on...

tt.tennis-warehouse.com

shock doctor court insoles

Good day all, I looked for some feedback on these insoles here before and couldn't find anything. So I decided to try them not expecting anything extraordinary. Boy was I pleasantly surprised, I normally wear superfeet black (in cb4.3 & lb) but since lb found the sf black to bring me too...

tt.tennis-warehouse.com

Insoles- Cushion

I have been having forefoot pain recently and it hasnt gone away. I thought it was maybe the thin cushioning of my vapor 9s, but I played in my 4.3s and still had pain. I was wondering if anyone could recommend some insoles that would provide more cushion for my whole foot. Doing some...

tt.tennis-warehouse.com

best insoles?

Have had some minor knee issues in the past and I'm looking for a good insole to use (in an Air Court Ballistec 2.3) as a preventative thing to help the cushioning a bit for the joints. I have high arches and fairly wide feet. Any suggestions?

tt.tennis-warehouse.com

That's only from page 1 of 7

Great, thanks, now I'm going to spend hours reading this.

 

[jimmy8]

For performance, you might try Move Game Day or Move Game Day Pro Insoles.

 

[jmacdaununder2]

I wear an OTC orthotic when I play tennis for a variety of reasons. 1. it cured a couple of foot issues 2. it made the "fit" of my shoes better (feel more custom tailored) which in turn made it feel like I was quicker and could stop/cut/move better. I don't have any factual evidence or data that says I play better with them, but as in most things tennis, it helps with the confidence/mental factor at the very least

To the point above at orthotics being heavy, I would disagree. When the orthotic goes in, the factory insole comes out. The difference between the two is less than 1/4 of an ounce per foot. I don't notice that difference

I would never comment on what orthotics are "the best" because like shoes, its all about what works best with your feet. I tried a few OTC orthotics before I landed on ones that felt the best. There was one in particular that I hated, and a guy I play with who wears those same ones loves them and said they help his foot pain immensely. I tried a pair that were one of Foot Dr Zachs top rated and didn't like them. They were a fine product, they just fit the way I wanted.

Ultimately how I found the ones I wear and love now was by visiting a local running shop. I am fortunate to have a shop in my neighborhood that has been around for 30+ years and has a very knowledgeable staff. They had a tool that analyzes the shape of your foot and from there they got me in the correct insole

For reference I use Spenco Polysorb walker/runner

Polysorb Walker/Runner Insole

The Spenco Polysorb Walker Runner Insole offers contoured, flexible support to walkers, runners, and joggers looking for additional comfort and cushioning. It also provides targeted shock absorption for rear foot impact. Ideal for use in athletic, running

www.spenco.com

My custom orthotics are far heavier than the over the counter stuff, but if I want to be able play tennis, or even walk/hike substantial distances, I have no other option. I also rarely play on hardcourt, and cycle around 5,000 ks a year as running for fitness is now somewhat problematic.

 

[Federerkblade]

Is this fairly normal super feet green I ache for day or two, legs and knees and I’m stiff

is this down to the lack of shock absorption
It’s only now I’m realising the link with the pain post playing ..
not sure if it’s any better with superfeet oranage

what has good shock absorption?

 

[innoVAShaun]

Great, thanks, now I'm going to spend hours reading this.

Maybe someone can create TikTok content about tennis insoles???

 

[Rozroz]

I'm not sponsored but I swear by Footbalance insoles. Custom mold, thin, lightweight, and fairly durable.

as far as custom mold goes, how can i find high arch ones?

 

[armandogomes]

as far as custom mold goes, how can i find high arch ones?

Their insoles are warmed up in a kind of oven and then you go onto their device so the insoles are molded up to your feet. Not sure if this actually answers your question, though.

 

[RedClayFan]

First of all, the bold statement above is possibly wrong. Maybe over support where the arch support is too high for your foot might be providing too much support. But at first reading that bold statement, it sounds like supporting your foot weakens the foot muscles, and under-supporting the foot helps keep the foot strong. Your plantar fascia just told me that you are wrong and you are tearing your plantar fascia from under support and you will soon get plantar fasciitis.

Every person is different. You need to get the insoles that work for you. Everyone has different size feet, width, arch height, malformations, injuries, etc. Get what works for you. If it's the expensive custom insoles, then get them if you can afford them. It will be cheaper in the long run. I have tried like 30-40 insoles and I keep trying more. I'm currently using Dr Scholls Float on Air in New Balance Fresh Foam X Lav v2. I don't recommend this setup for others. It's working for me right now, but that might change. The Lav v2 are amazing shoes - so much comfort, but still responsive, it's incredible how they did that! The Float on Air insoles have great comfort and some arch support. The Lav v2 have some arch support too.

I appreciate these insights. It makes a lot of sense if we're talking comfort, but is it not possible to define the insole qualities that are best for athletic performance in tennis?

 

[armandogomes]

Their insoles are warmed up in a kind of oven and then you go onto their device so the insoles are molded up to your feet. Not sure if this actually answers your question, though.

See some pictures of ones barely used. I'm still using my old ones, that have done a decent job so far.

EDIT for more context: this is their "best" model for impact sports (like tennis). They have for other kinds of activities. I started using custom made insoles due to a bursitis in the heel. The first couple were made by an orthotic store, but I ended up not adapting too good - and I wanted to use them with Court FF2, so they tried to make them thin.

Then I tried these footbalance ones and voila, no more issues. Thin, lightweight, performant but it won't last a lifetime. I'm currently extracting maybe 18 to 24 months of each set, so that's nice. It helps a lot with durability if you're not rotating them across shoes. Set them in and let them there until shoes are gone. Remove and repeat.

I'm "destroying" shoes at a, let's call it, interesting pace, so the longer they stay are like 3 months in a Gel Resolution pair.

 

[Lorenn]

I appreciate these insights. It makes a lot of sense if we're talking comfort, but is it not possible to define the insole qualities that are best for athletic performance in tennis?

They aren't mutually exclusive. Insoles which reduce pain and increase comfort also increase performance. It sounds like you want to increase energy return. My suggestion is normally find a well fitting shoe, which those looking for comfort would say includes a well fitting insole. Basically the goal should be to allow your feet to function as well as possible.

Whatever you can do to help your feet function properly should increase performance and reduce injuries.

 

[ey039524]

My carbon fiber Tread Labs are super light. I use the insoles from whichever shoe I'm wearing and use the carbon plate beneath them.

 

[jimmy8]

I appreciate these insights. It makes a lot of sense if we're talking comfort, but is it not possible to define the insole qualities that are best for athletic performance in tennis?

The flex of an arch plate gives you propulsion and makes you faster. The extra cushion will give you less fatigue to play better at the end of a long match. If you have responsive cushion, it will give you propulsion and feel. The heel cup keeps your heel in place. Custom orthotics are better because OTC don't fit your foot, unless you get lucky. But custom orthotics fit your foot because they take a mold of your foot and use that for the insole. Custom orthotics also make the insole based on things you tell them like - the ball of my foot hurts - so they put extra cushion there.

You also need arch support because if you let your foot flatten and bounce back, it strains your foot. That helps performance because playing without a strain is better than playing with a strain.

 

[innoVAShaun]

My custom SoloLabs insoles as seen in the Orthotic questions | Talk Tennis (tennis-warehouse.com) thread:

My newest orthotics:

 

[jimmy8]

My custom SoloLabs insoles as seen in the Orthotic questions | Talk Tennis (tennis-warehouse.com) thread:

Those look awesome! How much do those cost? Did insurance pay for any of it? How long do they last before replacement?

Have you ever had them repaired or refurbished by Sololabs?

You put those in your tennis shoes? Why is the heel so tall?

 

[jmacdaununder2]

Heel lift takes some of the strain off of the calf and achilles, which in turn lessens the strain on the plantar fascia; these orthotists like to think of the whole lower leg as a virtual continuum.

 

[LeeD]

Walk fit with hi insert works best for me.
I flatten out all others within 2 months.
Greens within 1 month.

 

[innoVAShaun]

Those look awesome! How much do those cost? Did insurance pay for any of it? How long do they last before replacement?

Didn't cost me anything. Yes, my insurance covered them. I get two a year and haven't had to throw any away yet.

I have three inside my tennis shoes and the rest of my gym and casual. The ones I use for tennis do show wear as the top poly/nylon layer starts to come off or where the harder plastic part begins has a slight tear in the sole itself.

Have you ever had them repaired or refurbished by Sololabs?

No. I just get new ones each time. They do have a serial number and QR code just for me but I haven't had to contact them directly. I might have to this year as I'm in a new area and am waiting to see a new podiatrist. Probably end up using my FSA to buy them.

You put those in your tennis shoes? Why is the heel so tall?

Yes, I use them in all my shoes, especially my tennis shoes. The heel is tall because exactly as jmac stated above. Perfect distribution throughout. I used to suffer from lower back, hip, knee, ankle, and foot pain from my military service. Not so much anymore and these days as long as I have these in a shoe with good response. For tennis, I use these in my (go-to) Diadora Torneo and (still adjusting to) Asics Gel Resolution 9 Wide. I also have them in my Babolat SFX3 and Nike Vapor X Wide but these sit very low once the factory insoles are removed and replaced.

 

[jimmy8]

Didn't cost me anything. Yes, my insurance covered them. I get two a year and haven't had to throw any away yet.

I have three inside my tennis shoes and the rest of my gym and casual. The ones I use for tennis do show wear as the top poly/nylon layer starts to come off or where the harder plastic part begins has a slight tear in the sole itself.

No. I just get new ones each time. They do have a serial number and QR code just for me but I haven't had to contact them directly. I might have to this year as I'm in a new area and am waiting to see a new podiatrist. Probably end up using my FSA to buy them.
Yes, I use them in all my shoes, especially my tennis shoes. The heel is tall because exactly as jmac stated above. Perfect distribution throughout. I used to suffer from lower back, hip, knee, ankle, and foot pain from my military service. Not so much anymore and these days as long as I have these in a shoe with good response. For tennis, I use these in my (go-to) Diadora Torneo and (still adjusting to) Asics Gel Resolution 9 Wide. I also have them in my Babolat SFX3 and Nike Vapor X Wide but these sit very low once the factory insoles are removed and replaced.

Have you tried New Balance Fresh Foam X Lav v2?

 

[innoVAShaun]

Have you tried New Balance Fresh Foam X Lav v2?

No, I have not. I was considering a lot of shoes until I found the Torneos. I tried the GR9Ws and SFX3s because the prices were too good (at that time) to pass up.

 

[jimmy8]

No, I have not. I was considering a lot of shoes until I found the Torneos. I tried the GR9Ws and SFX3s because the prices were too good (at that time) to pass up.

I highly recommend the Lav v2. They are expensive. I got them slightly used for about half price on the Bay.

 

[jimmy8]

I highly recommend the Lav v2. They are expensive. I got them slightly used for about half price on the Bay.

Do those SoloLabs insoles have a hard plate on the bottom or inside the insole?

 

[innoVAShaun]

Do those SoloLabs insoles have a hard plate on the bottom or inside the insole?

the mold is hard but they do put a cushioned layer as well as mid foot if you need more arch support

 

[Federerkblade]

What is the reason I get very stiff in my legs and knees and aches post playing with superfeet green and orange but no pain and aches post match the next day when using ASICS speed ff2 soles which came with the shoe ?

Can someone explain ?

 

[innoVAShaun]

What is the reason I get very stiff in my legs and knees and aches post playing with superfeet green and orange but no pain and aches post match the next day when using ASICS speed ff2 soles which came with the shoe ?

Can someone explain ?

Most of TTW's doctors and health experts hang out in the Health & Fitness forum. Maybe ask them.

 

[Federerkblade]

What is the reason I get very stiff in my legs and knees and aches post playing with superfeet green and orange but no pain and aches post match the next day when using ASICS speed ff2 soles which came with the shoe ?

Can someone explain ?

Anyone

 

[armandogomes]

If by any chance the way the insoles are designed will not make it “anatomically comfortable “ for your body, it will hurt.

 

[Lorenn]

Can someone explain ?

Sometimes it depends...your legs are a complex system designed to reduce shock damage from the movements you normally do. Change the alignment the stress ends up going someplace else. Likely someplace not conditioned for such stress. When players get older they really need to make sure they are keeping their overall legs stay flexible. I don't liek to streatch much pre-match, but more likely to do so post or outside of tennis.

Basically it could be that they are throwing your feet/ankles out of alignment, therefore more shock damage is going past the feet. Option two, they are actually realigning your feet but the rest of the body is not conditioned for said alignment. Third option which comes to mind is they might be increasing the amount of contact between your feet>>shoe>>ground. So more energy is coming through then your body is accustomed to...

The odd question is if your normal shoes were working great, why change?

 

[RedClayFan]

The flex of an arch plate gives you propulsion and makes you faster. The extra cushion will give you less fatigue to play better at the end of a long match. If you have responsive cushion, it will give you propulsion and feel. The heel cup keeps your heel in place. Custom orthotics are better because OTC don't fit your foot, unless you get lucky. But custom orthotics fit your foot because they take a mold of your foot and use that for the insole. Custom orthotics also make the insole based on things you tell them like - the ball of my foot hurts - so they put extra cushion there.

You also need arch support because if you let your foot flatten and bounce back, it strains your foot. That helps performance because playing without a strain is better than playing with a strain.

So basically the performance of an orthotic will come from how supportive it is, and is primarily based on reducing fatigue? Footdoctorzach made a video where his jump height improved with OTC orthotics, which made me think things like those carbon insoles would be useful additions. Would you say then I should simply aim for the best fitting insole I can get and using this rather than any OTC insole with various bits of tech in it?

 

[jimmy8]

So basically the performance of an orthotic will come from how supportive it is, and is primarily based on reducing fatigue? Footdoctorzach made a video where his jump height improved with OTC orthotics, which made me think things like those carbon insoles would be useful additions. Would you say then I should simply aim for the best fitting insole I can get and using this rather than any OTC insole with various bits of tech in it?

No, it's not primarily based on reducing fatigue. Yes, you should get tech if you can. Best fitting is necessary or you'll be uncomfortable and in pain the whole time. Get it all, if you can.

 

[Federerkblade]

Sometimes it depends...your legs are a complex system designed to reduce shock damage from the movements you normally do. Change the alignment the stress ends up going someplace else. Likely someplace not conditioned for such stress. When players get older they really need to make sure they are keeping their overall legs stay flexible. I don't liek to streatch much pre-match, but more likely to do so post or outside of tennis.

Basically it could be that they are throwing your feet/ankles out of alignment, therefore more shock damage is going past the feet. Option two, they are actually realigning your feet but the rest of the body is not conditioned for said alignment. Third option which comes to mind is they might be increasing the amount of contact between your feet>>shoe>>ground. So more energy is coming through then your body is accustomed to...

The odd question is if your normal shoes were working great, why change?

i thought they were meant to help , what happens when the ASICS sole becomes worn , can you buy more ?

 

[jimmy8]

i thought they were meant to help , what happens when the ASICS sole becomes worn , can you buy more ?

If it hurts, you bought an ill fitting insole. Try a different one. You can buy ASICS insoles, they are expensive, and I don't know where you get them.

 

[Lorenn]

i thought they were meant to help , what happens when the ASICS sole becomes worn , can you buy more ?

The wrong type of help is not helpful at all.

 

[Slicehand]

Orthotics are basically like a neck collar after a car crash, youre not supposed to wear it forever, your foot has to learn to work by itself, minimal tennis shoes thatlet your foot be but still provide support for changes of direction would be ideal, lm gonna try a lotof tennis shoes before i buy my next couple, anyone knows tennis shoes that are wide and have a lot of space for the foot? I hate arch support by the way, the less strange things it has in the insole the better, also the lower the stack height the better

 

[Federerkblade]

Hve other ppl experienced pain after training or matches with superfeet insoles ?

 

[Lorenn]

Hve other ppl experienced pain after training or matches with superfeet insoles ?

Of course. Did you follow the break-in directions?

Feet are pretty complex. 26 bones 33 joints...and that is before considering tendons and muscles. If you add something which changes how your feet typically work... you are likely to have a problem. You really need to analyze how and why your feet work and how you can help them do their job. Pain is there to tell you something is wrong. Spend time to analyze it and figure out what is going wrong.

 

[Federerkblade]

Of course. Did you follow the break-in directions?

Feet are pretty complex. 26 bones 33 joints...and that is before considering tendons and muscles. If you add something which changes how your feet typically work... you are likely to have a problem. You really need to analyze how and why your feet work and how you can help them do their job. Pain is there to tell you something is wrong. Spend time to analyze it and figure out what is going wrong.

There were no break in instructions on the box or inside

what should I have done ?

 

[jimmy8]

Orthotics are basically like a neck collar after a car crash, youre not supposed to wear it forever, your foot has to learn to work by itself, minimal tennis shoes thatlet your foot be but still provide support for changes of direction would be ideal, lm gonna try a lotof tennis shoes before i buy my next couple, anyone knows tennis shoes that are wide and have a lot of space for the foot? I hate arch support by the way, the less strange things it has in the insole the better, also the lower the stack height the better

Try the new balance 796 v3. Dr Zach foot doctor from YouTube said it's one of the best shoes and it's inexpensive.

 

[innoVAShaun]

There were no break in instructions on the box or inside

what should I have done ?

There should've been a label or some sort of instructions. Most orthotics recommend wearing them little by little before going full time. Some say start wearing them for an hour or use them for short periods prior to full time use.

My Sololabs orthotics came with these instructions (https://sololabs.com/wearing-instructions-for-orthotics/):

Wearing instructions for orthotics

We recommend you consult your podiatrist, physical therapist or chiropractor for specific instructions about wearing orthotics. Here are some general guidelines to help you adjust to your orthotics:

1. Wear your new supports for one hour the first day and increase your wearing time by one hour each day.
2. If you have severe or unbearable discomfort before you reach the maximum wearing time on any given day, remove the orthotics from your shoes.
3. The following day wear them again, but but only for the amount of time you wore them the previous day (Or, follow your doctors instructions for your unique condition).
4. Increase your time of subsequent days by ½ hour instead of the full hour. Continue this process as long as it remains comfortable.
5. You should begin wearing your supports comfortably for most of the day within 2 to 4 weeks.
6. It is not uncommon for some mild pain in your feet, ankles, knees, hips and back in the early stages of wearing your orthotics. This is a result of the repositioning and realignment of your body.
7. Most importantly, follow your doctor’s instructions.

 

[Federerkblade]

Thank you

not sure will wear them again and see how I get on

 

[Lorenn]

There were no break in instructions on the box or inside

Here is a second source.

https://www.sierra.com/lp2/superfeet-users-guide/

Above instructions(post 48) look spot on but I would likely increase time 30 minutes every two/four days. Assuming you are wearing them to play tennis.

I would bring two pairs of shoes and wear one for warmup/practice.(with new insole) Wear for an hour. Switch shoes(without new insole). Try to play at a reasonably level versus your peak. I would likely do this for about two weeks before I tried to play seriously. Then again I am ultra conservative. I don't want pain or an injury.