If your job requires work boots, there’s a good chance you’re on your feet all day. There’s also a good chance you might need more support than your boots can provide especially if you’re standing or walking on hard or uneven surfaces. Many people who wear work boots choose to add extra support in the form of an insole. Insoles can help maintain alignment as you walk and work and help prevent pain and injury BUT, just like you need breaks and resets in order to be at your best…so does your insole.
Your insoles will only be helpful if they are at their best and that means changing them on a regular basis. Let’s dive in to how often you should replace the insoles in your work boots.
The Best Insole for Your Work Boot
First, you want to make sure you’re using the right insole. For work boots, your best option is going to be an Orange Full. This full-sized insole is perfect for all durable shoes with removable liners- like work boots. It offers a cushioning metatarsal pad and a deep heel cup to keep your foot in place even while you’re moving. It’s also thicker than Orange Light, meaning it can take the wear and tear of long hours or double shifts. Your work boot doesn’t have a removable liner? Don’t worry. Get all of the same support and comfort with the Orange ¾.
When to Replace the Insole in Your Work Boot
There is no cut and dry answer as to how often you should replace your insole because the frequency is going to depend on your circumstances. A best practice is to replace your insole every year but if it's a job that requires a work boot, it might be sooner.
Here are some reasons you should consider switching out your insole closer to every 6 months.
Here are a few things to consider when deciding when you’ll need a new insole. The
- You’re on your feet all day and moving around
- You work in a damp environment and your feet are wet frequently
- You get really sweaty feet
- You notice your feet hurting more than usual at the end of the day
- You have low back pain
If it’s between 6 months and a year and you’re not sure, here are some signs it’s time to replace your insole:
- They have an odor (even after washing)
- They are tearing or peeling (this happens most frequently around the edge
- The logo has faded or started to fade
- The colors are fading
- They’re losing their shape
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They’re starting to crack
A worn insole is a useless insole so make sure you’re keeping an eye on their condition and how you feel and replacing the Orange Full in your work book every 6 months to a year!
