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I've been struggling with lower leg injuries since I started running in middle school--the primary cause being my flat feet and inclination to over-pronate when running. After a few rounds of PT and serious dedication to strength training/prehab, I've come to the realization that occasionally wearing insoles is likely going to improve my chances of remaining injury-free for the long haul.
On the recommendation of my PT, I tried the Superfeet brand running insole, but I was sorely disappointed by their performance. The insole was so heavy and thick that it altered the fit of my favorite shoes to the point of making my feet go numb. In my Hoka Mafate trail shoes, the Superfeet insoles created enough of a lift that I was repeatedly rolling my ankles and catching my toes on rocks and roots.
Just as I was about to throw in the towel with respect to insoles and arch support, I spoke with a friend who had been training for Speedgoat 50k using Currex insoles. He couldn't say enough great things about the brand, so I went on the hunt for a pair of my own.
The Currex website has three models of RunPro insoles: low, medium, and high profile. In order to find out which is the right fit, you have to identify what kind of arch your foot has and how your knees are aligned when standing. The website and packaging provide helpful diagrams to guide your decision.
Based on my flat foot profile and straight knee alignment, I chose the low profile insole.
I chose to purchase these at a local brick & mortar run store for two reasons:
HOWEVER, by purchasing these insoles in a store, I definitely paid more for them than I would have if I purchased online. The RunPro insoles cost $60 plus tax online.
Sizing: While you can cut the insole to the right length for your shoe, I lucked out with my sizing and haven't had to alter the insole to fit properly.
Gradual Introduction: like any new footwear or running gear, it's important to ease into using these insoles...AKA DON'T take them out for a long run immediately. I noticed that, even with a slow introduction to my rotation, these insoles did produce some sensitivity in the bottoms of my feet post-run. It's also common to feel some minor aches up the kinetic chain when introducing insoles.
When to Use Them: While I don't run with these in my shoes for every run, I do notice that they are helpful for preventing posterior tib pain/sensitivity during longer efforts when running form starts to degrade (think hard workouts or ultras).
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