You’ve been dealing with foot pain or just downright tired feet. You’re job requires you to be on your feet all day. You have a vacation with planned tours or activities coming up. You have trouble keeping up with your grandkids. You want to get in shape and start working toward that 10k steps a day goal.
Regardless of the circumstance, you need relief, but you’re unsure which route to go and where to spend your money. Read along to see a side by side comparison of custom-made foot orthotics and over-the-counter insoles to learn which solution best fits your foot pain, comfort, and long-term support needs.
What Are Over-the-Counter Insoles?
Over-the-counter insoles are pre-made inserts that you can find at pharmacies, big-box stores, or online. They’re designed to provide general support and cushioning for everyday foot comfort. The shape of the insole and specifically the height of the arch are designed based on generalities or averages.
Pros & Cons of OTC Insoles:
|
Pros |
Cons |
|
Inexpensive ($30–$60) |
Quality of the products are mediocre , so expect to replace them more often. Over time, the cost adds up ($180-$360 over 3 years). |
|
Easy to find in stores and online |
The shape of the insole and height of the arch are not made specifically for your feet. This is especially problematic if you have low to no arches (flat feet), high arches, or other foot conditions. |
|
Quick Solution, immediately available upon purchase. |
Short-term relief since comfort and support do not last long (typically 6-10 months) |
What Are Custom-Made Foot Orthotics?
Custom orthotics are specially designed to match your individual foot shape, biomechanics, and can be fabricated to address your specific foot issue - hence the word custom. A foot scan or mold is used to create orthotics that support your unique stride, pressure points, and medical conditions.
With TruCustom Orthotics, we elevate the experience using handcrafted and trusted fabrication techniques. Our premium materials mold to your feet over time and provide the custom support you need while also staying flexible so they move with you.
Pros & Cons of Custom Orthotics:
|
Pros |
Cons |
|
Customized fit for your specific feet |
Higher cost ($200–$800). Higher cost solutions often occur when seeing a foot doctor (i.e. podiatrist) |
|
Long-lasting support (2–5 years) |
May require appointments and processing time. TruCustom Orthotics are available through the mail (no appointments necessary), and you can receive your custom orthotics as quickly as 1 week. |
|
Targets specific pain points and foot conditions. Made specifically for you! |
Higher investment, so being an educated buyer is more important. |
Top 5 Benefits of Going Custom
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Custom Fit: Designed from your foot mold for maximum comfort and support.
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Pain Relief: Addresses issues like plantar fasciitis, flat feet, bunions, pronation, metatarsalgia, heel spurs, achilles tendonitis, etc.
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Durability: Higher-quality materials last longer than most over the counter options.
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Better Posture & Balance: Encourages healthy alignment across your whole body, which can also help with other joint pain (knee, hip, back, for example)
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Long-Term Investment: Helps prevent future injuries or conditions.
When Are Over the Counter Insoles Enough?
- You need basic cushioning for walking or standing.
- You’re looking for a short-term, low-cost fix.
- You have no specific foot diagnoses or biomechanical issues.
Who Needs Custom Orthotics? (Checklist)
- You’ve tried the over the counter solution and they do not provide relief
- Chronic foot, heel, or arch pain
- Diagnosed conditions like plantar fasciitis or bunions, metatarsalgia, etc.
- High or fallen arches or flat feet
- Jobs requiring you to stand or walk for long hours
- Ongoing joint, knee, hip, or back pain tied to posture
Choosing Between Custom & OTC
Quick Guide:
- Mild discomfort + low budget? Try over the counter first.
- Ongoing pain or diagnosed condition? Invest in custom orthotics.
Cost Comparison Over Time
|
Option |
Average Cost |
Lifespan |
Cost Over 3 Years |
|
Over the Counter Insoles |
$50/pair |
6–10 months |
~$300–$480 |
|
Custom Orthotics |
$200–$800 |
2–5 years |
~$200–$800 |
Custom orthotics may cost more upfront but are often more cost-effective over time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are custom foot orthotics worth the cost?
Yes. If you have persistent pain or specific foot issues, the personalized support can significantly improve your comfort and mobility.
Can over the counter insoles fix foot pain?
They can help mild discomfort, but they’re not built for long-term correction or complex problems. They also do not last very long (average life span 6-10 months), so expect to replace them regularly.
How long does it take to adjust to custom orthotics?
Most people feel comfortable immediately but definitely within a week or two. If your not feeling any improvement after 2 weeks, you need to contact us.
Will custom orthotics fit in all shoes?
They fit most shoes with removable insoles. You may need specialty styles for dress shoes.
Conclusion
Choosing between custom orthotics and over the counter insoles comes down to your needs, budget, and level of discomfort. Over the counter insoles offer convenience and short-term comfort, but custom orthotics provide long-term support, custom alignment, and relief and are more suited to relieve more complex foot conditions and support those who are highly active or are on their feet all day.
TruCustom orthotics are handcrafted, built to last, and designed with your health in mind.
