Do you feel pain in the back of your heel and calf when you get up in the morning or after exercise? It could be that you have strained the tendon in the back of your heel causing inflammation and irritation. Here are the best insoles for Achilles tendonitis that can help relieve this painful condition.
Let’s look at the features of the best insoles, heel cups, and lifts for Achilles tendonitis and give you an insight into this condition.
Here are the best insoles for Achilles Tendonitis
1. Powerstep Original Full Length Orthotic Shoe Insoles
This ultra-thin low profile insert cradles the heel and provides cushioning from Powerstep’s patented technology for the whole foot. The semi-rigid arch support is suitable for all arch types. These insoles can easily be moved to all of your shoes.
- PowerStep Original: Full length insoles, neutral arch support, moderate cushioning, medium activity for moderate support.
- Foot Pain Prevention & Relief: PowerStep Original insoles are ideal for pain associated with Plantar Fasciitis, Achilles Tendonitis, shin splints and other foot, ankle, knee, hip & back pain. As the #1 Podiatrist recommended brand, our mission and purpose at PowerStep is to create a more comfortable and happier life for our customers. ~ The PowerStep Pain Free Life
- Neutral Arch Support| Low Profile | Moderate Cushioning: Built-in neutral arch support and a dual-layer cushioning are the perfect balance of comfort and support in a low-profile design. With the proven PowerStep arch shape, Original insoles cradle the arch and heel, adding stability and motion control to limit excess stress on feet, ankles, joints, and tendons.
- Designed for Everday Use: PowerStep Original Insoles are made specifically for low profile shoes but can also be worn in a variety of shoe types including; athletic; walking/running, work and some casual and dress shoes. ~ PLEASE NOTE ~ First time PowerStep or orthotic insole users may need a transition period of wearing insoles only a few hours a day until feet are accustomed to all day support and stability.
- Proudly Made in the USA: Your 100% Satisfaction is Our #1 Concern so All of Our Products are Backed by Our 30-day Guarantee.
2. Samurai Insoles Instant-Relief Orthotics
These insoles from Samurai are designed by a podiatrist. They give support to your feet in all the right places and help correct the position of your feet, especially if they are flat. Their slim, lightweight design will fit your shoes without the need to trim to fit and they can help relieve heel pain.
- PAINFUL, FLAT FEET? FALLEN arches? As a LEADING PODIATRIST (with flat feet!) I realize that MOST SHOE INSERTS have “PROBLEMS”. They require cutting or have rock-hard arch support that radiates pain up your legs. That’s why I assembled a "DREAM TEAM" of INDUSTRY LEADERS to BIOMECHANICALLY ENGINEER Samurai Insoles! They OPTIMIZE the FUNCTION of your FEET & LEGS – COMBINING the BEST BENEFITS of an ARCH SUPPORT SHOE INSERT & CUSTOM ORTHOTICS.
- TURN ANY SHOE WITH A REMOVABLE INSOLE INTO A LEAN, MEAN, SUPPORTIVE COMFORT MACHINE : If you're tired of foot conditions limiting your mobility, then you'll love how Samurai Insoles GENTLY CORRECT the OVERPRONATION associated with LOW or FALLEN ARCHES and provide a CLOUD-LIKE PILLOW of SUPPORT for flat feet - QUICK RELIEF from plantar fasciitis and heel pain, especially if you're someone who can't tolerate rigid orthotic inserts for shoes or overly firm arch supports for flat feet
- THEY FIT! NO GUESSWORK, NO CUTTING, NO STUFFING: Let’s be honest, most orthotics shoes and insoles are just plain ugly and make you want to hide your feet. Samurai Insoles SLIM, LIGHTWEIGHT DESIGN SUPPORTS YOUR CHOSEN FASHION. Know your shoes size? Great! Simply choose your STANDARD SHOE SIZE above, replace your shoes' factory insoles with Samurai Insoles, and WEAR THEM IN YOUR FAVORITE FOOTWEAR whether you love sneakers, boots, clogs, slippers, or flats.
- THE SECRET? While most ARCH SUPPORT SHOE INSERTS are nothing more than fancy colored foam, or unforgiving hard plastic, Samurai Insoles PROVIDE AMPLE SUPPORT, BOUNCE BACK & MOLD TO YOUR FEET as YOU MOVE - so you get ideal support in all the right places whether you’re running, bicycling, jogging, water skiing, or jumping on the trampoline.
- INSTANT PAIN RELIEF: Yes, “They just work”. Because we geek out about fixing foot pain, we could talk endlessly about WHY these are the best MEDICAL GRADE inserts we’ve ever ENGINEERED for my patients, in a STATE-of-the-ART ORTHOTIC LABORATORY right here in the USA. But you want A SOLUTION, NOT A STORY so we’ll just tell you to TRY THEM RISK FREE. Let us PROVE they’ll RELIEVE YOUR PAIN and leave your FEET FEELING AMAZING.
3. Physix Gear Sport Full Length Orthotic Inserts with Arch Support
Good arch support and cushioning for your heels are some of the features of this insole from Physix Gear. Designed to help with pain from Achilles tendonitis, heel spurs, and other foot complaints, they are thin and semi-rigid. Polyurethane and EVA layers provide cushioning and support.
- ✅ STEADY ARCH SUPPORT: Physix high arch insoles are designed to be the best shoe inserts men & women need as a soothing solution for Flat Feet, Runner's Knee, Overpronation, Shin Splints, & Achilles Tendonitis. These plantar fasciitis insoles relieve Metatarsal Arch & Heel Aches, Metatarsalgia (Ball of Foot Pain), Patellofemoral Syndrome (Knee Pain), & Low Back Pain!
- ✅ LOW PROFILE, LIGHTWEIGHT, ULTRA THIN SOLES: Physix flat foot orthopedic insoles are more supportive than thick cushion insoles and won't alter the way your shoe fits. Our plantar fasciitis inserts allow more room in the toe box to ensure comfy fit in most shoe types: boots, booties, slippers, dress shoes, running shoes, sneakers.
- ✅ ERGONOMIC, NON SLIP DESIGN: Physix orthotic insoles are meticulously designed to reduce pain & discomfort, with semi-rigid arch support & heel cup for added support & stability while on the go. Plus each shoe insole has a non-slip heel to hold the insert securely in place throughout the day!
- ✅ SUPERIOR MATERIALS: Physix inserts are the best shoe insoles men & women love! Dual Base Layered High-Performance EVA foam & PU material helps correct abnormal walking patterns, relieves metatarsalgia, heel spurs, & knee pain.
- ✅ DEEP HEEL CRADLE FOR STABILITY ensures your feet get the best tender loving care they deserve, use after use. Ideal as overpronation insoles and perfect for improving performance & physical activity.
4. Silicone Gel Heel Cups by ViveSole
These gel heel cups support your heels and ankles, helping to alleviate heel pain. They absorb shock while massaging the heel as you walk. Suitable for any shoes, or even wearing inside socks, they are antimicrobial and latex free.
- SUPPORTIVE HEEL PAIN RELIEF: Providing soothing support for the heel and ankle, the VIveSole gel heel cups effectively reduce foot pain caused by heel spurs, bone spurs tendonitis and plantar fasciitis. Perfect for those on their feet all day, the heel cups elevate the heel to minimize fatigue in the feet, legs and back.
- INCLUDES ONE PAIR: This set includes one pair of comfortable gel heel cups that can be worn in most shoe styles, including athletic shoes, dress shoes and boots. The self-adhesive base ensures the heel cups stay firmly in place throughout the day.
- SHOCK ABSORBING GEL: Evenly distributing the pressure created with each step, the supportive gel inserts cradle and cushion the heels. Absorbing the shock of every impact, the gel inserts relieve painful pressure points and reduce tension and stress in the feet and ankles.
- LATEX-FREE: Contouring to the heel for greater support and comfort, each gel heel cup is constructed with a premium, latex-free gel.
- VIVE GUARANTEE: 60 day unconditional guarantee so you can purchase now with confidence.
5. Tuli’s Heavy Duty Heel Cups
These heel cups for Achilles tendonitis have a multi-layered design to absorb shock and return energy to your feet. They also help raise the heel to relieve stress on the back of the ankle. There are sizes available for children, men, and women, and they come with a lifetime warranty.
- ALLEVIATE HEEL PAIN – Tuli’s Heavy Duty Heel Cups provide heel pain relief caused by plantar fasciitis, Sever’s disease, excessive pronation, Achilles tendonitis, etc. Ideal for those on their feet for most of the day or those looking for added comfort.
- SHOCK ABSORPTION DESIGN - The multi-cell, multi-layer design absorbs shock and returns impact energy just like the system naturally found in your feet when you walk or run. Tuli’s Heel Cups return that energy for maximum comfort and performance.
- DOCTOR RECOMMENDED – Tuli’s Heel Cups were designed by a leading podiatrist and are the #1 Podiatrist recommended heel cups in the world
- MADE IN USA – Best used in spacious lace-up shoes like athletic shoes / sneakers. Our heel cups are made from the best performing materials available and backed by our industry leading Lifetime Warranty
- For EXCHANGES and RETURNS, call manufacturer directly
6. Premium Adjustable Orthopedic Heel Lift
Mars Wellness brings us this adjustable heel lift for Achilles tendonitis. Made from high-quality rubber, they have two removable sections so you can customize them to fit. They help relieve stress and strain on the calves while absorbing impact on the heels.
- Great For Leg Length Discrepancies, Heel spurs, Heel Pain, Sports Injuries, and Achilles tendonitis
- High quality rubber construction for Superb Heel Support
- 3 removable 1/8" thick layers for optimum Heel lift customization
- Durable and comfortable and work great for sports shoes and dress shoes
- Instantly correct leg length discrepancies
7. SQHT’s Height Increase Insoles
These heel lifts have a honeycomb design to absorb shock and hold your heel in a position to alleviate pain. They give lower and side support to your heels and can be used in most shoes. They have a 12-month warranty and 30-day money back guarantee.
- Height increase insoles add 0.6 Inches height invisibly. Nobody would know the secret of your increased hegith, can fit equally well in both men's and women's footwear.
- Comfortable heel lift inserts reduce foot pain resulting from Plantar Fasciitis, Achilles Tendinitis or sore fatigue, solve the difference issue in leg length.
- Heel cushions are wide and enough side support for your heel, the Honeycomb design can absorb shock, depressurizing and prevent the insoles slipping inside your shoes.
- Made of soft anti-skid PU Gel material with sweat absorbent fabric, reused and washed, suitable for high-tops, sneakers, tennis shoes, boot, rubber shoes etc. NOT FOR LOW TOP SHOES.
- If you are not satisfied with our insoles, friendly customers service for any questions, please feel free to contact us. Our products are packed with reuseable ziplock bag, easy to open and seal. The return would be a lot easier when the package in intact. Thank you very much
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Reviews of The Best Insoles, heel cups and lisfts for Achilles Tendonitis
Insoles in your shoes can help relieve the pain of Achilles tendonitis. They can also hold your foot in the correct position, helping to prevent this condition in the first place. Here are our top picks of the best insoles, heel cups, and lifts for Achilles tendonitis.
1. Powerstep Original Full Length Orthotic Shoe Insoles
Powerstep was founded by a podiatrist who noticed a need for accessibility to ready to wear insoles. Their insoles are designed to fit in any shoes and are suitable for many types of feet.
This original full-length insole is available in sizes from 5 to 15.5 for women and 3 to 16+ for men. They can correct foot problems like heel and arch pain, pronation, plantar fasciitis, and Achilles tendonitis.
Support at the heel cradle and arch is semi-rigid, which for some people might take a while to get used to.
Powerstep’s variable cushioning technology (VCT) targets the areas of your feet that need the most support. This involves two cushioned layers made from EVA foam which covers the entire insole.
An antimicrobial fabric top layer helps keep your feet odor free and your shoes fresh and dry.
On the downside, everyday wear might mean these insoles need replacing every few months.
Pros
- Semi-rigid heel and arch support.
- Dual layered full length cushioning.
- Wide size range.
- Odor-reducing fabric uppers.
Cons
- Might need replacing every few months.
| This low profile insole provides good support for both heels and arches to reduce strain on your ankles and calves. It can keep feet stable but cushioned, helping to alleviate pain. |
2. Samurai Insoles Instant-Relief Orthotics
Samurai Insoles orthotics are the brainchild of podiatrist Dr. Thomas Lembo to deal with the problems associated with flat feet.
Lightweight and low profile, they have a springy inner core to support your feet just where they need it. The orthotic to support your feet is hidden inside the layers of the insole.
They come in a range of sizes meaning they should fit your shoes straight from the packaging. The sizes range from 4 through 16.5, in half size increments. This means that both men and women should be able to find a pair that fit the bill.
Their biomechanical design helps give your feet and legs optimized function. This, in turn, might alleviate issues of pain in feet, ankles, heels, and calves.
The company offers a 60-day money back guarantee and will even pay for the return shipping.
This video from Samurai Insoles details their vision and benefits.
Pros
- Available in many sizes to fit your shoes.
- Heel and arch support, particularly for flat feet.
- Might help alleviate heel and ankle pain.
- 60-day money back satisfaction guarantee.
- Return shipping paid.
Cons
- The red color might bleed onto socks or the inside of shoes.
| These insoles are lightweight and slim but supportive. They could help correct problems associated with flat feet. If you are not satisfied there is a full money back guarantee with postage paid. |
3. Physix Gear Sport Full Length Orthotic Inserts with Arch Support
These insoles are from the family-run business Physix Gear. Although a relative newcomer to the market, their product is very popular.
The wide range of sizes means you should have no problem finding some for your shoes. There are five different products, covering a small size at a men’s 3 to 4.5 or women’s 5 to 6.5, right through to an extra large at a men’s 2 to 14.5 and women’s 14 to 16.5.
They have a double-layered foam cushion throughout with added support for your heels and arches. They help hold your feet in the correct position, preventing issues like heel spurs, Achilles tendonitis, and overpronation.
They have a low profile thin design so they will easily fit in any shoes. An antimicrobial top layer made of fabric keeps feet fresh and cool.
The company has confidence in its insoles and offers you a 100 percent refund or replacement should you not be happy with these insoles.
Pros
- Firm arch support.
- Added support for heels.
- A wide range of sizes.
- Can be trimmed to custom fit.
- Lightweight and thin.
Cons
- Run a little on the wide side.
| These insoles, while thin and lightweight, are supportive for heels and arches. Along with cushioning it makes them a good choice if you suffer from Achilles tendonitis. |
4. Silicone Gel Heel Cups by ViveSole
Vive Health manufactures and supplies a number of health and medical products. The company ethos is to put the customer first and they offer a 60-day refund, replace, or exchange guarantee.
These heel cups are made from premium medical grade gel which is latex free. There is additional cushioning added beneath the heel to help distribute pressure in this area and reduce foot fatigue and pain.
They are available in four sizes, covering men’s shoe sizes 6 to 13 and ladies 4.5 to 13.5. They comfortably fit into shoes and resist slipping when in place. You can even wear them inside your socks if you want.
They are flexible and comfortable, massaging the heels while you walk and providing relief from impact and shock absorption.
These heel cups for Achilles tendonitis can also help relieve pain associated with bone spurs and plantar fasciitis. They provide support to feet and ankles to reduce swelling and pain.
The gel is antimicrobial and helps keep odors at bay. They can be hand washed and air dried.
Pros
- Supportive gel construction.
- Will fit in any type of shoe.
- Can be worn with or without socks.
- Slip resistant.
- Antimicrobial.
Cons
- Might need regular cleaning as they seem to attract dust and fluff.
- Some find they are too thick.
| This latex-free, antimicrobial gel heel cup supports and cushions heels from everyday wear and tear. They might help relieve the pain associated with foot and heel issues. |
5. Tuli’s Heavy Duty Heel Cups
Tuli’s heel cups are supplied by Medi-Dyne, a company that has all its products tested by health professionals. These heel cups claim to be the number one podiatrist recommended in the world.
These shock absorbers for your heels have a waffle construction and are multi-layered and multi-celled. Made from a soft material, they are latex-free and hand washable. They elevate and cushion your heel to help prevent and relieve the pain of Achilles tendonitis, plantar fasciitis, and many other foot issues.
They rotate and move with your foot to absorb impact. Working like a spring, they return the energy back to your feet.
They are available in three sizes: small, regular and large. The small is suitable for children or smaller adults weighing up to 80 pounds.
Regular fit men’s feet under a size 7 and women under a size 9 and are suitable for weights of up to 175 pounds. Large fits men’s feet over a size 8 and women’s feet over a size 10, and suitable for weights over 175 pounds.
These hard-wearing heel cups are covered by a lifetime warranty.
Pros
- Waffle design for shock absorption.
- Hard wearing.
- Lift and support heels.
- Various sizes.
- Good for children who have Sever’s syndrome.
Cons
- Some find the heel lift too high.
| These heel cups are made from a soft, latex-free material. They give cushioning and lift to your heel with their waffle design. They can be hand washed and air dried. |
6. Premium Adjustable Orthopedic Heel Lift
Mars Wellness brings us a heel lift designed to correct leg discrepancies as well as relieve the pain from Achilles tendonitis, heel pain, and sports injuries.
They are made from high-quality rubber and have two 0.125 inch layers which can be removed to achieve the right amount of lift. This means you can customize them to your feet and heels. The upper layer next to your heel is made of leather.
They come in three sizes, small, medium, and large. The sizes covered are a men’s 7 to 10+ and a ladies 4 to 12+. They should fit in many types of shoes from sneakers to boots to dress shoes.
Lifting the heel might take the stress and strain off your calf and Achilles tendon. The good thing with these lifts is you can remove sections as your condition improves.
Pros
- Removable layers for height adjustment.
- Lift heels to relieve stress.
- Shock absorbing.
Cons
- Might be too wide for some shoes.
| These heel lifts have layers which can be removed to customize the amount of lift. They absorb shock and relieve the stress on heels and ankles. |
7. SQHT’s Height Increase Insoles
These heel lifts can elevate you, giving relief to stress on ankles, heels, and calves. They might help with the pain caused by Achilles tendonitis or sore tired legs and feet.
They are made from a polyurethane-silicone gel material and have a honeycomb design to absorb shock. The top layer is a fabric which can wick moisture away from your feet. The heel lifts are soft and anti-skid.
Suitable for all shoes apart from those with a low top they come in three heights, 0.6 inches, 1 inch, and 1.25 inches. They measure 2.6 inches wide by 4.5 inches long.
The company offers a 12-month warranty and 30-day money back guarantee.
Pros
- Three heights are available.
- Honeycomb gel for shock absorbency.
- Moisture-wicking upper.
- 12-month warranty and 30-day money back guarantee.
Cons
- Might be too narrow for larger men’s shoes.
| These are a heel lift available in three different heights. Made from a silicone gel, it has a moisture wicking upper layer. It can absorb shock with its honeycomb design. |
What Is Achilles Tendonitis?
The Achilles tendon is a band of tissue at the back of the heel which connects the calf muscles to the heel bone in your lower leg. If you overwork this through exercise or wearing shoes which don’t give enough support, it becomes inflamed and painful.
Achilles tendonitis can happen in the middle or at the base of the tendon. It’s more common in younger or active people when it happens in the middle of the tendon. When it’s at the base where the tendon inserts into the heel it can affect anyone, active or not.
This condition will often happen when you change the intensity or frequency of workouts. It’s common in runners or people who play sports just at the weekend.
What Causes Achilles Tendonitis?
Repetitive or intense strain on this connective band of tissue is one of the main causes of Achilles Tendonitis. You use this when you run, walk, push up on your toes, or jump.
Unfortunately, it can weaken with age, making it more susceptible to injury.
Changing up your exercise regime can exacerbate this condition. Other factors leaving you at risk include:
- Being male: It’s more common in men than women.
- Age: This condition is more likely to happen as you get older.
- Obesity: Being overweight can increase the strain on this tendon.
- Foot arch: Having flat feet can place more strain on the Achilles tendon.
- Worn out shoes: Shoes that no longer support your feet properly can predispose you to tendon strain.
- Heel spurs: These painful calcium deposits on the heel can build up over time and can irritate the Achilles tendon.
What Are the Symptoms of Achilles Tendonitis?
Some of the common symptoms of this condition include:
- Pain in the tendon at the back of the ankle: That will get worse when you are active.
- Stiffness and pain in the Achilles tendon: When you get up in the morning.
- Severe pain felt the day after you exercise.
- The tendon becomes thicker.
- Heel spurs: Form at the base of the tendon.
- Swelling: Which is there all the time and increases when you are active.
If at any time you feel a “pop” in the back of your heel or calf, you might have torn your Achilles tendon. This requires immediate medical attention.
Is There Anything You Can Do to Prevent Achilles Tendonitis?
There are some measures you can take to lower the risk of Achilles tendonitis. These include:
- Gradually increase any exercise regime: Especially if you are new to it.
- Warm up and stretch: Before exercising, especially your calf muscles. This is also a good idea when you get up in the morning.
- Avoid strenuous activities: Like hill running, which places a strain on the tendons.
- Stop exercising: If you feel pain.
- Choose shoes which provide enough cushioning: Plus good heel and arch support.
- Use insoles or heel cups: If your shoes don’t provide the support your feet and heels need. They can help cushion the heel and take the strain off the Achilles tendon.
- Heel lifts: Can be used to move the heel away from the back of your shoe and prevent rubbing and irritation. They can also help relieve pressure on the back of the calf and heel.
- Cross training: Involving low impact activities like cycling and swimming should be alternated with other activities like running or other sports.
This video explains Achilles tendonitis with some causes and treatments.
What to Look for in Insoles, Heel Cups, and Lifts for Achilles Tendonitis
When selecting orthotics for Achilles tendonitis look for:
- Cushioning: To ensure comfort.
- Heel and arch support: To keep your feet in the right position.
- Shock absorption: Will lessen the impact of walking or running, especially in the heel area.
- Heel lift: Can take the pressure off the calves and heels.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will Achilles Tendonitis Get Worse If I Don’t Use Insoles?
Supporting your feet and legs and correcting their position can take the stress and strain off the Achilles tendon. The chances are if your shoes don’t give this support and you don’t use an insert for Achilles tendonitis, it could get worse.
How Do I Know If I Have Achilles Tendonitis?
There are times when you might have this condition and have no symptoms or signs. However, in general, there will be swelling at the heel and pain in the calf. You might not be able to bend your foot downward.
Does Achilles Tendonitis Require Surgery?
There are times when this condition, despite remedial treatment, might need surgery. If you have had the pain for several months or if it’s severe, see your doctor.
Our Final Thoughts
Shoes inserts for Achilles tendonitis can take a few forms. Whether you choose insoles, heel cups, or heel lifts, they can all help relieve the pressure on this tendon relieving and preventing pain.
Our favorite of the ones we have detailed is the Powerstep Original Full Length Orthotic Shoe Insoles. They have semi-rigid support for your arches and heels as well as cushioning throughout. Their wide range of sizes and slim design means there should be some to fit most shoes.
We hope you enjoyed our guide to the best insoles for Achilles tendonitis and found it useful. Please leave us a comment and don’t forget to share.
