We know the teacher struggle of finding the long-lasting comfort you need while being on your feet all day in the classroom. Want to wear those pointed toe flats? Ouch. Before putting up with any pain, consider adding a pair of shoe inserts to boost the support! For the ultimate level of cozy kicks, we recommend sliding them into a pair from our big list of over 50 teacher-approved shoe recommendations.
Knowing how to choose shoe inserts won’t just ease foot pain but also relieve stress on your knees, ankles, and back. Having good foot support can help avoid issues like plantar fasciitis and fallen arches. Inserts are available in many varieties, such as gel inserts, arch support inserts, memory foam inserts, plantar fasciitis shoe inserts, and more. Our picks below will make sure you’re getting the top-rated insoles to give you an easier time at work. Try these comfortable shoe inserts for teachers to help you tackle a long day on your feet no matter what type of shoes you feel like wearing.
(Note: WeAreTeachers may collect a small portion of the profit from links within this article. We only showcase items we love!)
Arch and Plantar Fasciitis Support Shoe Inserts
Easy Feet Arch Support Insoles
Caring for your feet starts with good arch support, which can help prevent body aches from weighing down on your feet. A high arch support insert can take some getting used to, but your body will thank you later. This pair also provides support if you struggle with plantar fasciitis, a common issue that causes heel pain. The gel soles will put a pep in your step! Reviews rave that these inserts performed better than more expensive recommendations and lasted through many wash cycles. They’re available in men’s and women’s sizes.
Buy it: Easy Feet Arch Support Insoles/Amazon
VoMii Memory Foam Insoles for Plantar Fasciitis & Arch Support
Add the cloud-like feel of memory foam to your favorite shoes. This Amazon best-seller is ultra comfortable and affordable at under $10. They include shock-absorbing technology to support you all day and are available in sizes for men, women, and kids! Reviewers say these shoe inserts helped them survive long shifts ranging from 6-12 hours on their feet.
Buy it: VoMii Memory Foam Insoles/Amazon
Dr. Scholl’s Stylish Step Hidden Arch Support
This smaller insert is great for flats or your favorite pair of sandals. They provide arch support while staying discrete, so you can still rock your favorite pair of shoes with less pain. One review says, “I found myself needing more heal support while standing, and I’m in love! Super comfortable which makes having them inside my shoes a plus! Good cushioning and love the extra support they provide.”
Buy it: Dr. Scholl’s Stylish Step Hidden Arch Support/Target
Orthotic Shoe Inserts
Dr. Scholl’s Knee Pain Relief Orthotics
If you experience knee pain from long periods of standing, these could save the day. Built-in shock guards help absorb stress put on feet before causing pain. One review noted, “I’m on my feet all day long, and my knees really bothered me, so I truly am thankful that l have found these. My knees feel so much better.”
Buy it: Dr. Scholl’s Knee Pain Relief Orthotics for Women/Target | Dr. Scholl’s Knee Pain Relief Orthotics for Men/Target
Dr. Scholl’s Heel Pain Relief Orthotics
Anyone who suffers from general heel pain, plantar fasciitis heel pain, or heel spurs may find much-needed relief in these inserts. One reviewer noted, “I bought a pair of walking shoes that I felt were extremely soft and supportive. However, I started walking longer distances and started to get pain from my heel impacts. After ordering these, it was a complete turnaround as soon as I put them in. My pain went away immediately.”
Buy it: Dr. Scholl’s Heel Pain Relief Orthotics/Amazon
PowerStep Original Thin Orthotic Insoles
Designed to relieve pain, this option provides comfort and support without being too bulky. The low profile of the insert allows it to be compatible with a wider range of shoe styles. Plus, PowerStep is podiatrist-recommended for your foot needs. Reviews say this purchase was a game-changer for standing and walking for long periods—and they’re comparable to much more expensive insoles. Available in both men’s and women’s sizes, these are worth a try to relieve foot pain!
Buy it: PowerStep Original Thin Orthotic Insoles/Amazon
Gel Shoe Inserts
Fab Feet Ball of Foot Gel Insoles
This small insert option could work if you prefer a gel-like feel for low-profile footwear. The ball of your foot is a sensitive area that takes on a lot of stress, especially if there is a small heel on your shoe. Best part is, you can wash these with soap and water, and they remain sticky to use in a different pair of shoes. At under $6, pick these up for a more comfortable day!
Buy it: Fab Feet Ball of Foot Gel Insoles/Target
Dr. Scholl’s Massaging Gel Advanced Insoles
This option is designed to alleviate foot discomfort and tired legs. One happy reviewer says, “I work a typical full-time job that requires being on my feet for long periods of time some days, so the support of my shoes is incredibly important to me. I can now wear almost every pair of shoes on my rack ALL DAY LONG without even a twinge of pain in my feet OR my back! These things are Heaven in my shoes!”
Buy it: Dr. Scholl’s Massaging Gel Advanced Insoles/Amazon
Dr. Scholl’s Cushioning Gel Insoles
Flats often provide little to no foot support, but this simple purchase under $10 can make all the difference. A teacher wrote, “I work in the PE Department, and we are active for 6 hours a day with very little breaks between classes due to COVID cleaning requirements. SOL’s require us to stand and walk around the classroom; no sitting. Very happy to have these in my shoes.”
Buy it: Dr. Scholl’s Cushioning Gel Insoles/Amazon | Dr. Scholl’s Cushioning Gel Insoles/Target
Comfort Shoe Inserts
Dr. Scholl’s Comfort Tri-Comfort Insoles
Slim enough to fit into flats, these are designed for all-over support of the heel, arch, and ball of the foot. These are very versatile in that they fit into a wide range of shoe styles. Reviews said these were great for people who spend hours standing, noting, “Effectively gives comfort to those who work long hours on their feet! Unnoticeable and doesn’t shift!”
Buy it: Dr. Scholl’s Comfort Tri-Comfort Insoles for Women/Target | Dr. Scholl’s Comfort Tri-Comfort Insoles for Men/Target
Arm and Hammer Odor Control Comfort Insoles
These pillow-like memory foam inserts will give you comfort and the odor control you need for all-day wear. Some users say they place the insoles from this trusted household brand underneath their shoe bedding or other heavy-duty support insoles to control odor and add an extra cozy feel.
Buy it: Arm and Hammer Odor Control Comfort Insoles/Amazon
Flat Socks No Show Cushioned Socks
These sleek sock inserts are perfect for a tight pair of flats. They aren’t just designed for a bit more support, though. These are also meant to wick sweat from your feet and provide odor control with an added layer of foam that can help ease pain.
Buy it: Flat Socks No Show Cushioned Socks in Leopard/Target | Flat Socks No Show Cushioned Socks in Grey/Target
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