Leather Insoles vs. Rubber Insoles

Insoles may improve the fit of a pair of shoes.

Insoles in shoes serve several different purposes. Certain types of insoles provide necessary support for those with arch problems, while other insoles are designed simply to make the shoe you wear more comfortable. Insoles also help protect the shoe itself. When the foot wears on the insole instead of on the inside of the shoe itself, it helps extend the life of the shoes.

Support

For people that experience foot or back pain as a result of long periods of time on their feet, insoles provide critical added support inside the shoe. They help distribute weight better and support the foot in all the right places. Rubber provides a better medium for additional support than leather. Rubber is easily molded to the correct shape to support the foot and comes in different densities to provide just the right amount of support.

Odors

One problem with leather is that it has a tendency to absorb odors. The benefit of rubber insoles is that they are often treated in order to help repel odor, and in the case of some insoles, you can easily wash them to remove any odor build up. Leather insoles that are worn for long periods of time absorb smells. However, this protects the shoe itself from getting overly odorous, because if the insole absorbs most of the smell you can throw it out and put a new one in the shoe.

Comfort

Both leather and rubber insoles provide increased comfort in a shoe. The decision between the two here is largely a matter of personal preference. What feels best for one person in a particular pair of shoes might not hold true for another person, or even for the first person in a different pair of shoes. Its important to try different types of insoles to find the type that provides you personally with the most comfortable fit.

Improved Athletic Performance

Insoles are used by some athletes in order to achieve greater performance. They can help athletes avoid injuries while they work out, although conflicting evidence exists as to how effective they are in this regard. Typically, an athletic insole is made out of rubber or another plastic-like material. This allows the makers to shape them to address specific issues when making custom inserts for a specific customer.

References

• New York Foot Group, L.L.P: 3 Benefits of Using Insoles
• FootHealthCare.com: What are the Benefits of Shoe Inserts?
• WalkingShoeReviews.com; The Advantages of Wearing Insoles; Ed Forteau; November 2009
• "Runner's World"; Orthotics for Your Shoes; Ted Spiker; August 2004

Resources

• "The New York Times"; Close Look at Orthotics Raises a Welter of Doubts; Gina Kolata; January 2011
• America's Podiatrist; Biomechanics of Sport Shoes...; Dr. Nirenberg; February 2011
• Running Times: Ask the Coaches: Shoe Odor