Insoles vs. Orthotics

So what is an orthotic?

There are literally hundreds of products on the market that claim that they will “improve foot comfort” or “relieve pain.” So what makes Powerstep different?  Why does Powerstep make orthotics and not insoles?

An insole is simply a shoe insert, typically cushioned for comfort or molded for orthopedic reasons. However, most insoles don’t provide any real support and often only relieve pain for a short time, eventually increasing foot problems as they wear down.

An orthotic is a support, brace, or splint used to support, align, improve, or correct the function of movable parts of the body. Powerstep orthotics do just this for your feet. Our orthotics were designed by Dr. Les Appel, a podiatrist, to support the entire foot for relief from and prevention of pain or soreness. The most important element of our orthotics is the polypropylene semi-flexible plastic shell that is encapsulated between layers of luxurious foam cushioning. This flexibility is what makes the difference: flexible enough to be comfortable yet firm enough to achieve proper support.  

Many years were spent devising the shapes that would benefit the broadest number of people.  Powerstep orthotics use flat platforms known as posts under the heel and leading edge to balance the foot. These combined with an open arch area fully support the foot and arch, yet allow it to flex and spring enough to maintain proper foot function. These properties along with comfort cushioning help prevent foot motion that could negatively affect the ankle, knee, and spine. Powerstep fulfills the true definition of an effective orthotic device, actually improving foot function to relieve or prevent foot pain.