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_3/4_ insoles you have liked?

My old custom orthotics have supported my feet through a long and distinguished career during fair days and foul, but the time has come to pass the torch to a new generation. I'm looking for off-the-shelf 3/4 length insoles that have served you well.

I do a lot of walking. My step total for 2023 was over 5 million and I usually log more than 30 miles per week, sometimes more than 40.

3/4 insoles leave a little more wiggle room for my toes. They fit in a wider variety of footwear.

How about you? Is there a 3/4 insole that you want to proselytize about ?

I'm hoping someone can give testimony about Pedag natural inserts, for one -- they are a German brand that does handmade sheepskin and cotton goods using only natural dyes and production methods.

Posted by
17216 posts

Hi Avi—I am a believer in Superfeet insoles, and I have used their 3/4 insert for my dress shoes when I was wearing such shoes for work. They do make a mens’ model:

https://www.superfeet.com/en-us/casual-mens-easyfit

My husband has discarded his old custom orthotics from years ago in favor of Superfeet for his walking shoes and hiking boots. They offer support but not much cushioning.

As for Pedag, I have used their leather arch supports for shoes that do not have enough for me. They make a good quality natural product, and I would recommend them if they have something that fits your needs. Maybe I should look at them for my forefoot problems (neuroma). Thanks for the suggestion!

Posted by
6282 posts

I have Pedag inserts, and they didn't work for me. Later, I saw a podiatrist and had custom insoles made that do make a huge difference. Like you, I have been frustrated that they don't fit into all shoes. Now, that I know what the issue with my feet is, I think it may be worth trying Pedag again. For my specific issue, I need an insole with a metatarsal pad. The Pedag I purchased did not have that feature. Now, looking at their website, I think I could find something that would work. All that to say, if you know what you need, you'd be able to make an informed choice and probably have a good result. The Pedag inserts I have are at least 10 years old and in great shape. Thanks to your post, I'm going to take a new look at their product line. That said, I love having the custom insoles in my running and hiking shoes and my hiking boots, but for other shoes, I can see that Pedag may be a super option.

Posted by
1612 posts

I have used Pedag and custom made insoles.

It depends on your shoes and your arch shape. You may have to experiment a bit. Remember that sometimes, an insole may not be immediately comfortable.

Posted by
335 posts

My family exclusively wears Birkenstock blue inserts (the 3/4 length--not the Birkosport full length). A Google search will bring up many sites where you can buy them. If you don't know your European size, see if you can get to an authorized Birkenstock store to get fitted. They last for many years--even when they become discolored, they still work.

Posted by
2699 posts

I didn't realize that Birkenstock made 3/4 inserts! I think I might try both the Birk and the Pedag sheepskin.

In the interim, I just put some CVS store brand gel inserts into two pairs of boots after trimming off the top quarter, and they are already an improvement.

Posted by
2594 posts

I used Birkenstock 3/4 insoles in my work dress shoes for 20+years. Never failed me. Though they're not 3/4 length, I also use Sole brand inserts in my athletic and walking shoes. They're heat moldable and come in a variety of thicknesses. I buy the ones with a met pad - huge improvement in my foot pain.