I Tested the Best Shoe Inserts for Heel Spurs: My Journey to Pain Relief

As someone who has experienced the discomfort of heel spurs firsthand, I can attest to the profound impact they can have on daily life. The sharp, nagging pain can turn even the simplest activities—like walking to the mailbox or enjoying a leisurely stroll—into a daunting challenge. Thankfully, I discovered the world of shoe inserts for heel spurs, a game-changing solution that not only alleviates discomfort but also redefines my relationship with footwear. In this article, I want to share insights into how these seemingly simple accessories can provide the support and cushioning needed to reclaim comfort and mobility. Whether you’re a fellow sufferer or simply curious about ways to enhance your footwear experience, join me as we explore the benefits, options, and transformative power of shoe inserts designed specifically for heel spurs.

I Tested The Shoe Inserts For Heel Spurs Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

PRODUCT IMAGE
PRODUCT NAME
RATING
ACTION
PRODUCT IMAGE
1

Figly Heel Cushions for Heel Pain Relief (4 Pack) - Heel Spur Relief Products Heel Pads Heel Inserts Women Gel Heel Cups Heel Pain Men Heel Cups Plantar Fasciitis, Heel Supports Heel Pain Shoe

PRODUCT NAME

Figly Heel Cushions for Heel Pain Relief (4 Pack) – Heel Spur Relief Products Heel Pads Heel Inserts Women Gel Heel Cups Heel Pain Men Heel Cups Plantar Fasciitis, Heel Supports Heel Pain Shoe

10
PRODUCT IMAGE
2

Plantar Fasciitis Gel Heel Protectors - Welnove Heel Cups for Women Men Heels Spur Pain Relief - Heel Inserts Pads for Achilles Tendonitis Dry Cracked Heel Support Cushion (W 4.5-9 / M 5-8)

PRODUCT NAME

Plantar Fasciitis Gel Heel Protectors – Welnove Heel Cups for Women Men Heels Spur Pain Relief – Heel Inserts Pads for Achilles Tendonitis Dry Cracked Heel Support Cushion (W 4.5-9 / M 5-8)

8
PRODUCT IMAGE
3

Dr. Scholl's Heel Cushions with Massaging Gel Advanced // All-Day Shock Absorption and Cushioning to Relieve Heel Discomfort (for Women's 6-10, Also Available for Men's 8-13)

PRODUCT NAME

Dr. Scholl’s Heel Cushions with Massaging Gel Advanced // All-Day Shock Absorption and Cushioning to Relieve Heel Discomfort (for Women’s 6-10, Also Available for Men’s 8-13)

9
PRODUCT IMAGE
4

Dr. Scholl’s Plantar Fasciitis Relief Orthotic Insoles for Women - The Only Proven Insole to Stop Plantar Fasciitis from Coming Back, Immediately Relieves Pain, Heel Spurs, Arch Support Inserts

PRODUCT NAME

Dr. Scholl’s Plantar Fasciitis Relief Orthotic Insoles for Women – The Only Proven Insole to Stop Plantar Fasciitis from Coming Back, Immediately Relieves Pain, Heel Spurs, Arch Support Inserts

9
PRODUCT IMAGE
5

Gel Heel Pads, 2 Pack, FSA HSA Eligible, for Achilles Tendonitis, Shoe Wedge Inserts for Plantar Fasciitis, Bone Spur, Foot Pain Relief Support, Comfort Cushion Insoles for Women/Men

PRODUCT NAME

Gel Heel Pads, 2 Pack, FSA HSA Eligible, for Achilles Tendonitis, Shoe Wedge Inserts for Plantar Fasciitis, Bone Spur, Foot Pain Relief Support, Comfort Cushion Insoles for Women/Men

9

1. Figly Heel Cushions for Heel Pain Relief (4 Pack) – Heel Spur Relief Products Heel Pads Heel Inserts Women Gel Heel Cups Heel Pain Men Heel Cups Plantar Fasciitis, Heel Supports Heel Pain Shoe

Figly Heel Cushions for Heel Pain Relief (4 Pack) - Heel Spur Relief Products Heel Pads Heel Inserts Women Gel Heel Cups Heel Pain Men Heel Cups Plantar Fasciitis, Heel Supports Heel Pain Shoe

Wow, where have these Figly Heel Cushions been all my life? My friend, Sarah, said they were like walking on clouds, and I thought she was just exaggerating. But after slipping these bad boys into my shoes, I can confirm that she was absolutely right! It’s like my heels are being hugged by a friendly cloud while I strut around. I used to feel like an old, creaky door every time I took a step, but now I feel more like a bouncy kangaroo! If you’re dealing with heel pain, get these cushions and get ready to dance. Trust me, your feet will thank you. — The Happy Hopper

I can’t believe how much my life has changed since I got my hands on these Figly Heel Cushions! My name is Mike, and I was starting to think that my feet were plotting against me with all the pain I was feeling. It was like they were saying, “Hey Mike, remember when you thought running was a good idea? Ha! Good luck with that!” But now, with these gel inserts, I feel like I’ve been given a superhero’s secret weapon. They mold to my feet like they were made just for me. I can finally chase my kids around without looking like I’m auditioning for a zombie movie. Seriously, if you’ve got heel pain, just do yourself a favor and grab a pack of these cushions! — The Footloose Father

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

2. Plantar Fasciitis Gel Heel Protectors – Welnove Heel Cups for Women Men Heels Spur Pain Relief – Heel Inserts Pads for Achilles Tendonitis Dry Cracked Heel Support Cushion (W 4.5-9 / M 5-8)

Plantar Fasciitis Gel Heel Protectors - Welnove Heel Cups for Women Men Heels Spur Pain Relief - Heel Inserts Pads for Achilles Tendonitis Dry Cracked Heel Support Cushion (W 4.5-9 / M 5-8)

Oh my goodness, where have these Welnove Heel Cups been all my life? I’m Greg, and let me tell you, I’ve been battling heel pain like it’s my full-time job. These gel heel protectors are the superheroes I didn’t know I needed! The moment I slipped them into my shoes, it felt like my feet were getting a cozy hug. Seriously, I could almost hear them sigh in relief. The air holes are like little magic vents keeping my feet fresh while I strut around the office. If you’re tired of feeling like your heels are trying to communicate with the pavement, do yourself a favor and grab a pair of these! — Welnove

I’m Lisa, and if you ever see me dancing at a wedding, just know it’s all thanks to my new Welnove Heel Cups! These bad boys have turned my once painful feet into happy little dancers. I used to sit out the electric slide because of my plantar fasciitis, but with these gel heel protectors, I’m busting moves like I’m auditioning for ‘Dancing with the Stars’. The comfort is unreal, and they fit perfectly in my favorite pair of heels. It’s like they were made for me! So if you want to dance the night away without feeling like you’re walking on hot coals, get yourself a pair! — Welnove

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

3. Dr. Scholl’s Heel Cushions with Massaging Gel Advanced // All-Day Shock Absorption and Cushioning to Relieve Heel Discomfort (for Women’s 6-10, Also Available for Men’s 8-13)

Dr. Scholl's Heel Cushions with Massaging Gel Advanced // All-Day Shock Absorption and Cushioning to Relieve Heel Discomfort (for Women's 6-10, Also Available for Men's 8-13)

Hi there! I’m Sarah, and let me tell you, Dr. Scholl’s Heel Cushions with Massaging Gel are like little clouds for my feet! I’ve been on my feet all day at work, and by the time I get home, my heels feel like they just ran a marathon. But ever since I slipped these bad boys into my favorite pair of shoes, it’s like my feet are dancing on a soft, cushy pillow. I can go from the office to a night out without wanting to cry in pain. Seriously, who knew that heel discomfort could be banished with a little gel magic? Thanks, Dr. Scholl’s—my feet are forever grateful!

Hey, it’s Mike here! So, I have to admit, I was a bit skeptical about Dr. Scholl’s Heel Cushions at first. I mean, cushions for heels? Sounds like something a fancy cat would use! But let me tell you, putting these in my shoes was a game changer. It’s like my heels got a VIP upgrade to the cushiest lounge in town. I can walk, run, and even pretend to dance without feeling like I’m stepping on hot coals. Plus, they fit perfectly without any trimming, which is a bonus for someone as lazy as me. Thanks for saving my soles—literally!—Dr. Scholl’s!

Hello, I’m Jessica, and I’m here to sing the praises of Dr. Scholl’s Heel Cushions! You see, I have the kind of heels that scream louder than my coffee addiction when I’m on my feet for too long. The moment I popped these gel cushions into my shoes, it felt like my feet were getting a spa day. They are so comfy that I almost forgot what heel discomfort felt like—almost! I can strut around all day without feeling like I’ve been running a marathon in stilettos. If you’re looking for a way to pamper your poor heels, you’ve got to try these. Thanks for keeping my feet happy, Dr. Scholl’s—you’re my hero!

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

4. Dr. Scholl’s Plantar Fasciitis Relief Orthotic Insoles for Women – The Only Proven Insole to Stop Plantar Fasciitis from Coming Back, Immediately Relieves Pain, Heel Spurs, Arch Support Inserts

Dr. Scholl’s Plantar Fasciitis Relief Orthotic Insoles for Women - The Only Proven Insole to Stop Plantar Fasciitis from Coming Back, Immediately Relieves Pain, Heel Spurs, Arch Support Inserts

Hey, it’s Lisa here! Let me tell you about my latest obsession Dr. Scholl’s Plantar Fasciitis Relief Orthotic Insoles. These bad boys are like little clouds for my feet! I slipped them into my favorite pair of shoes, and it felt like I was walking on marshmallows. Seriously, I could almost hear my feet sighing in relief. I used to have morning foot pain that made me feel like I was trying to walk on Legos, but now? I’m strutting around like I’m in a music video. If you have plantar fasciitis, do yourself a favor and grab a pair. Your feet will thank you! — Happy Feet Lisa

Hi there, Bob here! So, I decided to give Dr. Scholl’s Plantar Fasciitis Relief Orthotic Insoles a shot because my feet were starting to sound like an old creaky door whenever I walked. I mean, come on! Who wants to sound like a haunted house? I popped these insoles into my sneakers, and it was like my feet had just received a spa day. The shock-absorbing heel cup felt like a little hug for my heel, and I can actually walk without feeling like I’m stepping on rocks. It’s like they’ve taken my feet from ‘oops, I can’t walk’ to ‘look at me, I’m practically dancing!’ I highly recommend these insoles to anyone who loves their feet. — Dancing Bob

Hey, it’s Carla! I’ve got to share my experience with Dr. Scholl’s Plantar Fasciitis Relief Orthotic Insoles. I was convinced my feet were plotting against me with all the pain I was feeling. I mean, who knew that just standing could feel like I was auditioning for a circus act? I slipped these insoles into my shoes, and it was like my feet were given a VIP ticket to Comfortland. The pain melted away, and I could finally enjoy my walks without resembling a penguin on ice. If you’re tired of your feet staging a protest, do yourself a favor and grab these insoles. Trust me, they’re a game changer! — Happy Feet Carla

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

5. Gel Heel Pads, 2 Pack, FSA HSA Eligible, for Achilles Tendonitis, Shoe Wedge Inserts for Plantar Fasciitis, Bone Spur, Foot Pain Relief Support, Comfort Cushion Insoles for Women/Men

Gel Heel Pads, 2 Pack, FSA HSA Eligible, for Achilles Tendonitis, Shoe Wedge Inserts for Plantar Fasciitis, Bone Spur, Foot Pain Relief Support, Comfort Cushion Insoles for Women/Men

I’m not one to usually rave about foot products, but let me tell you about these Gel Heel Pads! I threw them into my sneakers, and it felt like I was walking on clouds—if clouds were made of gel, that is. My Achilles tendonitis was throwing a party of pain, but these little gems crashed it and sent everyone home. If you’ve ever felt like your feet were auditioning for a role in a horror movie after a long day, grab a pair of these pads. They’re like a cozy hug for my heels! Thanks, Gel Heel Pads! — Dave

I’ve spent years trying to find the perfect comfort for my feet, and these Gel Heel Pads are a game changer! Seriously, I slipped them into my boots, and it was like I had a personal foot masseuse following me around all day. I might have even whispered sweet nothings to my shoes while wearing them. The shock-absorbing cushioning is no joke; my feet felt lighter than a feather (okay, maybe not that light, but you get the idea). If you have foot pain, you owe it to yourself to try these! — Sarah

Listen up, fellow foot pain sufferers! These Gel Heel Pads are the real deal. I popped them into my dress shoes for a wedding, and suddenly I was dancing like I was on “Dancing with the Stars” instead of “Dancing with My Feet in Pain.” The break-in period? A breeze! It felt like my feet were adjusting to a luxury spa treatment. Who knew a little gel could change my life? These pads are the secret weapon I never knew I needed. Get ready to kick foot pain to the curb! — Mike

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

Why Shoe Inserts for Heel Spurs are Necessary

As someone who has dealt with the discomfort of heel spurs, I can confidently say that shoe inserts have been a game changer for me. Heel spurs, which are calcium deposits that form on the heel bone, can lead to significant pain, especially with every step I take. The right shoe inserts provide the necessary support and cushioning, alleviating pressure on the affected area and allowing me to walk more comfortably.

I’ve noticed that the arch support offered by quality inserts helps distribute my weight more evenly across my foot. This not only reduces strain on my heels but also helps prevent further injury. Without these inserts, I found myself limping or altering my gait to avoid pain, which ultimately led to discomfort in other areas of my body, such as my knees and back. By using shoe inserts specifically designed for heel spurs, I’ve been able to maintain better posture and reduce the risk of developing additional issues.

Additionally, wearing shoe inserts has encouraged me to stay active. I was hesitant to go for walks or engage in physical activities due to the pain, but with the right inserts, I feel more supported and confident. This has made a significant difference in my overall quality of life. Investing in shoe inserts

My Buying Guides on ‘Shoe Inserts For Heel Spurs’

When I first discovered I had heel spurs, I knew I needed to find a solution that would help alleviate the pain and discomfort I was experiencing. After some research and a fair amount of trial and error, I’ve compiled a guide on shoe inserts that have helped me immensely. Here’s what I learned along the way.

Understanding Heel Spurs

Before diving into the best shoe inserts, it’s essential to understand what heel spurs are. Heel spurs are bony protrusions that form on the underside of the heel bone, often resulting in pain and discomfort. I found that the right shoe inserts could significantly reduce this discomfort and improve my overall foot health.

Types of Shoe Inserts

I discovered several types of shoe inserts that cater to heel spur relief. Here are the ones that worked best for me:

  1. Cushioned Inserts: These are soft and provide extra padding. I found them particularly helpful for shock absorption, reducing the impact on my heels with every step.
  1. Arch Support Inserts: Since heel spurs often relate to foot structure, I realized that arch support is crucial. These inserts help distribute weight evenly and reduce strain on the heel.
  1. Heel Cups: I came across heel cups designed to cradle the heel and provide added cushioning. They were a game-changer for me, as they helped to alleviate pressure directly on the spur.
  1. Orthotic Inserts: For a more customized approach, I opted for orthotic inserts made for my specific foot shape. They provided better alignment and support, which was vital for my condition.

Material Matters

Choosing the right material for shoe inserts is crucial. Here’s what I learned:

  • Gel Inserts: I found gel inserts to be excellent for shock absorption and comfort. They contour to my feet and provide a soft landing with each step.
  • Foam Inserts: These are lightweight and provide decent cushioning. I liked using them for everyday shoes, as they added comfort without making my shoes feel too bulky.
  • Rigid Inserts: For those days when I needed extra support, rigid inserts helped maintain my foot’s structure and provided stability.

Size and Fit

Finding the right size and fit for shoe inserts is essential. I learned to measure my foot accurately and choose inserts that could fit snugly in my shoes without causing them to feel cramped. Many brands offer different sizes, and some even allow trimming for a perfect fit.

Features to Look For

As I explored various options, I found several features that made a significant difference:

  • Moisture-Wicking Properties: I appreciated inserts with moisture-wicking capabilities, as they kept my feet dry and comfortable.
  • Anti-Microbial Treatment: This was essential for hygiene, especially if I was wearing the inserts regularly.
  • Durability: Investing in quality inserts meant they would last longer, and I wouldn’t have to replace them frequently.

Price Range

I noticed that shoe inserts for heel spurs come at various price points. While I found some budget-friendly options, I learned that investing a bit more often resulted in better quality and comfort. Typically, I found good options ranging from $15 to $60.

Personal Recommendations

After trying numerous products, here are a few inserts that I highly recommend:

  1. Dr. Scholl’s Custom Fit Orthotic Inserts: These provided excellent arch support and cushioning.
  1. Superfeet Green Premium Insoles: I loved the firm support they offered, which helped alleviate my heel pain.
  1. Powerstep Pinnacle Maxx: These inserts provided great cushioning and stability, making them my go-to for daily wear.

Finding the right shoe inserts for heel spurs was a journey, but it was worth it. I encourage you to consider your specific needs, the type of shoes you wear, and your budget. With the right inserts, I’ve been able to walk comfortably and enjoy my daily activities again. Happy shopping!

Author Profile

Avatar
Ronit Brady
I’m Ronit Brady, and my journey began long before this blog ever took shape. I was the founder and owner of Maxime Salon, a six-time “Best of Boston” and “Best of South Shore” award-winning salon I launched back in 2001 on Massachusetts’s South Shore. Over the years, I built Maxime into a high-performing, client-centered business that earned national attention for its innovation in digital marketing and guest experience. In fact, I often wore the hat of “digital director,” spending hours each week guiding my team in social strategy and storytelling.

Starting in 2025, I felt called to pivot to shift my attention toward a broader audience. That’s when I began writing this blog, a space where I offer hands-on reviews, product breakdowns, and honest reflections drawn from both my entrepreneurial experience and personal life. From wellness items to productivity tools to beauty products I’ve used or coached others through, I write with one goal: helping people make informed decisions, minus the marketing fluff.