Gel & Silicone Insoles

Silicone gel insoles are well known. The material they're made of is very popular in the sports world (Asics' famous Gel range springs to mind). Although silicone is particularly beneficial for athletesit is just as beneficial for orthopaedic insoles and in heels, for example. Here we explain exactly what a silicone gel insole is, and what it's used for? 

What is a silicone gel insole?

It's an insole, usually orthopedic, made of gel, a material designed differently by each brand. Indeed, the purpose of silicone is to provide optimum cushioning for the foot, and each material or technology employed is jealously guarded by the brands that design gel insoles. The material indicated by the companies is only " thermoplastic elastomer "which is pretty broad.

A silicone gel sole is generally perforated with tiny holes to allow the feet to be well ventilated. As a result, the inside of the shoes will be comfortable and dry, preventing the proliferation of bacteria and unpleasant odors.

Although its main purpose is tocushion the foota silicone gel insole should not be confused with a memory foam insole. In fact, the latter are made of thermoelastic foam, which allows the foot to sink into the insole permanently, whereas gel insoles provide elastic cushioning, so that the insole reshapes itself shortly after impact.

Silicone gel insoles can be used as foot massage during walking, like magnetic insoles. However, it has many other functions.

When should I wear silicone gel insoles?

Gel and silicone orthopedic insoles are particularly widespread on the market. In fact, the cushioning properties of gel help to alleviate many plantar pathologies, often associated with athletes. Here are the main foot ailments that can be treated with orthotics:

• Achilles tendonitis. This pathology is mainly due to excessive sporting activity. When athletes run intensively, for long periods or repeatedly, the Achilles tendon is subjected to micro-shocks, causing inflammation. An orthopedic silicone gel insole will absorb all these shocks, which will benefit the Achilles tendon. Silicone gel insoles can therefore be used as a preventive measure to avoid tendonitis, or to treat Achilles tendonitis. It is possible to continue sporting activities when suffering from this pathology and wearing gel insoles, but it is still preferable to remain at rest during the healing process.
• Heel spur. This is an aptly-named condition, as it involves the creation of a bone spur on the calcaneus, the bone beneath the heel. This spine is created by repeated shocks that cause stress to the foot, which defends itself by producing the spine. It causes severe pain in the heel, which can only be relieved by wearing gel insoles. These absorb shocks and limit contact between the spur and a hard surface.

• Plantar fasciitis. Closely related to heel spurs, plantar fasciitis is an inflammation of the fascia, the fiber under the foot that connects the heel to the forefoot. In this case, too, the inflammation is caused by multiple shocks, or by the creation of a heel spur. As you can see, mixed silicone insoles will increase shock absorption in the arch of the foot, relieving the pain associated with this plantar pathology while providing optimum comfort. 

What type of shoe should I use a gel insole for?

Silicone gel insoles can be used for feet that are simply tired feetThey can also be used in city shoes. However, they are particularly effective in sports shoes. They reduce fatigue and pain in runners' feet, while optimizing their efforts. In fact, the deformation and resetting of the gel creates a rebound phenomenon.

Less obvious is the case of heeled shoes. People wearing heels are prone to sudden shocks (total absence of soles), causing blisters and injuries. Wearing silicone gel insoles for heels is therefore the best choice. This will make walking less uncomfortable.

How to choose silicone gel insoles?

Silicone gel insoles offer a number of advantages. Shock attenuation is essential for anyone involved in activities requiring prolonged walking or running. This is the case for certain professions but also, and above all, for many sports. However, gel is mainly used in orthopedic insoles. In fact, silicone is very useful for treating various plantar pathologies. Less well known is the fact that silicone insoles can help people wearing heels. We can distinguish between two types of gel insoles: "basic" and orthopedic.

Here are a few points to bear in mind when making your choice:

• Your foot type: consider your foot type before choosing a silicone gel insole. If you have flat feet, for example, you may need extra support for the arch of your foot.
• Your activity: If you're an active person and plan to use insoles for sports or intense physical activity, it may be wise to choose insoles that offer good cushioning and arch support to reduce shock and fatigue.
• Insole size: choose an insole that matches the size of your shoes. Silicone gel insoles are generally available in different sizes, so make sure you choose the right one for a comfortable fit.
• Material quality: opt for an insole made from high-quality material to guarantee optimum durability and comfort.
• Your personal preferences: there are comfortable silicone gel insoles with additional features, such as a non-slip surface or memory foam, which can help the insole fit your foot better.

SmartFeet offers silicone gel insoles on the market. Shock-absorbing, breathable or for running, you'll find the pair of insoles of your dreams in SmartFeet's online store.