Did you buy your boots in haste and not check the size properly? Maybe they were a perfect fit at the time but have stretched with wear. Our guide to the best insoles for boots that are too big will help you get a snug fit again.
Whatever the reason, if you now find you have a pair of boots which your feet are swimming around in, this guide can help.
Featured Recommendations
1. Timberland PRO Men’s Replacement Insole Anti-Fatigue Technology
Designed to give energy back to your feet, these shock absorbers cushion each step you take. Providing support and comfort, their antimicrobial top cover regulates foot temperature and keeps them fresh. The contoured footbed and dynamic fit arch adapt to all shapes of feet and will fill up extra space in your boots.
- A True Performance Product
2. Superfeet Green Full Length Insole
The heel cup on the Superfeet insoles offers support to your feet and helps absorb shock. Biomechanically shaped, they can easily take up an extra half size in your boots. Made from closed-cell foam, the outer coating has odor control to keep feet fresh.
- Trim to Fit: Superfeet insoles are made to be trimmed to fit your shoes and boots; follow cutting instructions before use, and if you're between sizes, size up and trim down to fit.
- High Arch Support Insoles for Women & Men: Deep heel cup works with your body's natural cushioning for maximum support.
- Premium Arch Support Insoles: Sculpted heel cup cradles the heel to maximize natural shock absorption; designed for roomy footwear.
- Superfeet Insoles for Odor Control: Moisturewick top cover helps reduce odors and keeps feet fresh; high density closed-cell foam supports the whole foot.
- Formerly Known as Superfeet GREEN: All-Purpose Support High Arch (Green) insoles are the same great arch support insoles you love, now with a new name.
3. Dr. Scholl’s Pain Relief Orthotics for Heavy Duty Support
These insoles are made to go the distance, designed for people weighing up to and over 200 pounds. They can be trimmed to fit any boots and have shock guard technology to support your feet and prevent fatigue. These could be the extra layer you need to make your boots fit.
- Specially designed for men over 200 lbs., tall and/or those with wide width feet. Suitable for any arch type, including high and fallen arches.
- All-day support & pain relief, every day. Helps minimize the impact and tension on feet, legs, and lower back. Provides the support and comfort you need to help your tired, achy, and sore feet.
- Extra supportive heel cushioning surrounds the heel and relieves lower back pain & leg fatigue. Distributes foot pressure to relieve stress on feet, legs, and lower back.
- Durable and Built-to-Last with shock absorbing foam cushioning. Customize the insoles to your desired size and shape easily. Simply trim along the guidelines to achieve the perfect fit for your shoes. Suitable for your athletic running shoes, work shoes and boots, casual shoes, and house slippers.
- Clinically Proven & Scientifically designed and engineered to keep you.
4. Samurai Insoles for Flat Feet Instant-Relief Orthotics
These insoles are a good solution for boots that are too big. They give support in all the right places, molding to your feet as you walk. They bounce the energy back to your feet.
- Fast foot pain relief shoe inserts for work and play! Simply replace your shoe insoles with Original Samurai Insoles orthotic inserts for heel pain relief, achilles tendonitis relief, and more
- Address the root cause of plantar fasciitis, achilles tendonitis, heel pain and other common types of foot pain. Most other plantar fasciitis sole inserts are just a cushioned insole with no support.
- Our shoe insert turns nearly any shoe with a removable shoe insole into a lean, mean, comfort machine in under 10 seconds. Compare The Original Samurai to other heel spur relief products or orthotics
- Podiatrist designed arch supports that are state-of-the-art orthotic laboratory made, right here in the USA. The perfect full length shoe inserts for standing all day with an orthotic built right in.
- Original Samurai arch support insoles are 100% Guaranteed to provide relief or your money back! They are the perfect foot health insoles for standing all day or enjoying the things you love to do!
5. Sof Sole Insoles Men’s Athlete Performance
Sof Sole brings us this slightly thicker comfort insole which will take up the gap in your boots. They have gel pads in the sole and heel for cushioning and a built-in moisture management system for dry, cool feet.
- Performance orthotic insoles improve the comfort and fit of men’s footwear; ideal for walking, running, cross training, and casual use
- Contoured neutral arch is suitable for most foot types; inserts designed to fit in casual and athletic footwear
- Lightweight cushioning and gel pads in the heel and forefoot offer comfort without bulk
- Hydrologix moisture-wicking treatment helps to keep feet dry, managing temperature Provides energy return and increased performance
- Available in five trim-to-fit sizes for men's casual and athletic shoes: Men's 7-8.5, Men's 9-10.5, Men's 11-12.5, Men's 13-14, and Men's 15-16
6. Spenco Rx Orthotic Arch Support
The Spenco RX insole has a moldable arch support and antimicrobial treated fabric. It is 0.16 inches thick making it a good option for smaller adjustments to boot size.
- Spenco full-length insole provides complete heel-to-toe comfort
- Spencore material exclusive cushioning layer absorbs shock and impact to provide comfort
- Moldable insert with flexible plastic arch helps support and control the foot
- 7 sizes for correct arch placement for better overall fit, comfort and cushioning
- 4-way stretch fabric helps prevent blisters while controlling odor
Reviews
Taking up the slack in boots that are too big can give them a new lease of life. Here are our top six picks for insoles to fill that unwanted space in your boots.
1. Timberland PRO Men’s Anti-Fatigue Technology Replacement Insole
New England-based company, Timberland, has achieved a good standing worldwide. It produced its first iconic sand-colored boot back in the early 1970s. The company makes a wide range of footwear and clothing.
Timberland’s exclusive design feature is an inverted cone foam insole. It absorbs the shock the ground exerts, and returns energy to your feet. This eases fatigue when wearing boots all day.
These insoles are available in sizes XXL, suitable for men’s size 14 to 15, right down to XS, suitable for women’s boot size 5 to 6. They can be trimmed to fit any boots.
Lightweight support is provided by the anatomically-contoured footbed. It comfortably cradles your foot, and supports your heels and arches. A trademarked Ortholite top layer helps manage moisture in the boots and keeps your feet cool and fresh.
Thicker than most, the insoles will reduce excess space inside your boots.
This video from Timberland shows the cone design anti-fatigue technology.
Pros
- Insoles are thick — enough to take up extra boot room.
- Patented inverted foam cone design.
- Trimmable to adjust fit.
- Supports all types of foot arch.
Cons
- Wide insoles need cutting to fit most boots properly.
| These insoles are thick enough to take up extra room in your boots. They come in a range of sizes for men and women, and can be cut down for a perfect fit. An innovative inverted foam cone design cushions tired feet. |
2. Superfeet GREEN Full Length Insole
These insoles from Superfeet are durable and thick with a high profile shape. This makes them large enough to take up the extra space in your boots.
They are designed to be long-lasting while giving support to your feet for an average of 500 miles or up to 12 months of wear.
The heel cup is deep and wide and helps absorb the shock delivered to your feet from walking. The high profile will stabilize your feet and reduce extra stress on ankles and knees.
Constructed from high-density foam covered with an odor control coating, feet stay comfortable, fresh and cool. The base of the insole has a stabilizer cap which gives stability to the inner layers.
They come in sizes for kids, 13.5 to 2, women, 4.5 to 12.5+ and men, 5.5 to 17.
This video from Wiggle shows you the Super Green insoles in action.
Pros
- High insoles will help fill the space in your boots.
- Durable and comfortable.
- Deep heel cup for support.
Cons
- Might take some time to get used to them.
| These are insoles with a good width and thickness for filling spaces in too-large boots. They have a deep heel cup, offering support for feet, ankles and knees. |
3. Dr. Scholl’s Pain Relief Orthotics
Dr. William Mathias Scholl patented his first arch support for feet back in 1904. The company has international standing and brings many items for foot care to the market.
These insoles, while designed to be heavy duty, can be used by anyone. They are available in one size, 8 through to 14, and are trimmed to fit. Both women and men find they can wear them.
Thick enough to take up the slack caused by boots which are too big, these insoles will not crowd your toes.
They have a deep cup heel. This helps reduce fatigue in legs and feet, and can also reduce lower backache.
Dr. Scholl’s arch guard technology supports your feet. It’s recommended that these insoles are changed about every six months. Fortunately, these are a lower-priced insole, making that a more affordable option.
Pros
- Thick enough to make boots snug without crowding toes.
- Heavy duty.
- Designed for people over 200 pounds but can be worn by all shapes and sizes.
Cons
- Might need replacing frequently.
- Some find they make noises when you walk.
| A heavy duty insole which can take up the slack in boots that are too big. They are supportive and available in one size, which can be trimmed to fit. |
4. Samurai Insoles Instant-Relief Orthotics
These insoles from Samurai might release your inner ninja. Designed by podiatrist Dr. Thomas Lembo, they are sold in two thicknesses.
The original Samurai are thinner and would be great if your boots are just a little too big. The Samurai Sumo offers a thicker option if you need to fill more of your boots.
Whichever you choose, the technology remains the same. They are lightweight and low profile, giving a good fit and plenty of comfort. The inner core is springy and supports feet just where they need it.
They are available in half increment sizes for men and women, from size 4 through to 16.5. These insoles are designed for people with flat feet, but others find the arch support comfortable as well.
The company is confident in their product and offer a 60-day money back guarantee; they will even pay the return shipping.
This video from Samurai Insoles explains the Samurai conception and benefits.
Pros
- Available in sizes to fit your shoes rather than a one-size-fits-all trim option.
- Two thicknesses, depending on how big your boots are.
- 60-day money back guarantee and return shipping paid.
Cons
- The red color could bleed into your socks.
- Durability might be lacking.
| These insoles come in two thicknesses and are sized to fit your boots. While designed for people with flat feet, others find the arch support good. The company offers a full money back guarantee if they are not suitable. |
5. Sof Sole Insoles Men’s Athlete Performance
SOF Sole has produced footwear accessories since the early 1990’s. This range of insoles covers numerous types of footwear, including boots.
These one-piece insoles have a gel pad in the forefoot and heel. They are about a ¼-inch thick, so substantial enough to make a difference to your boot size.
Treated with Sof Sole’s Hyrologix, they keep feet cool and dry. They also have antimicrobial treatment, Microban, embedded into the foam, to prevent bacterial growth. The base of the insole is durable polyurethane.
Available in men’s sizes 7 through to 16, they can be trimmed for a perfect fit. These insoles are comfortable and supportive, keeping your feet comfortable during long days at work.
Sof Sole offers a one-year replacement warranty against defects in this insole.
This video from the manufacturer highlights the features of the athlete performance insole.
Pros
- Gel inserts in heels and forefoot.
- Anti-bacterial and wicking properties.
- ¼-inch thick to adjust your boot size.
Cons
- The insoles might squeak in some boots.
| These insoles have a good thickness for making up the shortfall when your boots are too big. They have antibacterial and wicking properties, for cool, dry, fresh feet. |
6. Spenco Rx Orthotic Arch Support Full Length Shoe Insoles
Spenco Footwear has manufactured insoles for the last 50 years. The company aims to provide comfort for the whole of your foot.
These insoles come in eight different sizes for men and women, from size 3 up to 16. At ¼-inch thick at the heel, these are a good option when boots are just slightly too big.
A moldable arch insert, made from flexible plastic, supports the arch of the foot. There is a patented cushioned layer, which absorbs shock and provides comfort.
The upper is made from a 4-way stretch fabric, with an antimicrobial treatment to control foot odor.
Check out some of the features in this video from PhysioRoom.
Pros
- Moldable arch insert for foot support.
- 25 inches thick to help your boots feel snug.
- Antimicrobial treated materials.
Cons
- They can move inside your boots, causing them to squeak.
- Can be difficult to mold the plastic arch support.
| These insoles have a moldable arch and are antimicrobial. They are thinner than some and a good option for boots which are a little too large. |
Why Are Your Boots Too Big?
There are a few reasons your boots could be too big. It might have been an impulse buy, where you sacrificed size for style. Maybe it was an online purchase and you can’t return them.
It might not be a new pair of boots. Your old faithfuls, which are your “go to” boots, might have stretched with wear. It could even be the time of year. Feet that have swollen during the hot summer months can be smaller when the weather is cold. If you have lost weight, this can also affect your foot size, strangely enough!
No matter what the reason is, boots that are too big are just not comfortable. Your heels could be slipping and causing blisters, and you might feel your feet are lost inside the boots.
So, other than throwing them in the trash or donating to charity — what is the solution?
Wearing Insoles to Make Boots Smaller
One of the easiest ways to make boots smaller so they fit our feet well is to wear insoles. They sit in the base of your boots and push your feet upward. This will fill in the gaps created by your loose footwear, making them snug again.
There are many different brands and sizes of insoles, let’s find out what to look for in an insole.
Choosing Insoles for Boots That Are Too Big
Check out the shape of the soles of your boots before choosing an insole. You want some that are going to fit well and not exacerbate the problem by moving around. Some will be sized to fit your boots, while others can be trimmed to fit.
You also need to make sure that the insole fits your foot. You can do this by standing on the insole on the floor. It should encompass your foot from heel to toe and also feel comfortable.
If you wear your boots for work, or are on your feet a lot, you want an insole that will last. There are cheap insoles out there, but the chances are they won’t be durable.
The whole point of insoles for boots which are too large is to make them fit. Consider the thickness of the insoles and the amount of padding they offer. If your boots are only a fraction too big you don’t need a pair that are too thick.
Need to fill half a size or more? Choose a thicker insole.
The added advantage of padded insoles is that they absorb the impact placed on your feet when you walk. This can help relieve stress on not just your feet but your ankles, knees, and back, as well.
Adding an extra layer into your boots could make your feet sweat more, however. Insoles with antimicrobial properties can help prevent the growth of bacteria which make feet and boots smell.
Generally, it’s recommended that you remove existing insoles when placing new ones in. However, the object of the exercise here is to decrease size, so leaving your original insoles in your boots might help.
This video can help guide you in fitting your insoles.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Do I Know Which Insoles Are Best for My Big Boots?
We have highlighted some of the features to look for in an insole. One of the main ones to take into account when your feet are floating around in your boots is their thickness.
If you just need a small adjustment then thin ones will be fine. If your feet are walking out of your boots, look for thicker insoles.
Will Thick Socks Help My Boots Fit Better?
Wearing thicker socks may help in some cases. However, they can also make your feet sweat more and you feet are still likely to move in the boot. This might result in blisters on your feet. Insoles are a more suitable option.
How Can I Tell If My Boots Are Too Big?
There are a few ways to check if your boots are too big.
Tie up the laces, and if the shoelace panels overlap, then they are too wide. If your feet are slipping and sliding in your boots when you walk, they are too big.
Finally, if you press the top of your boot in front of your big toe when standing, and it meets the sole, then yes, it’s too big.
Which Insoles Are Best for Loose Boots?
The choice of insoles when your boots are too big will depend on the amount of space in the boots. If it’s just a little, then a thinner insole like the Samurai will suit. If you have a lot of space to fill, a thicker option, like the Timberland would be better.
Both of these products provide additional support and cushioning for your feet. The ultimate choice is yours.
We hope you enjoyed our guide to the best insoles for boots that are too big and would love to hear your thoughts. Please leave us a comment and don’t forget to share.
