Shoe inserts

wanderingsoul · Joined: 19 Jul 2004 Posts: 2285 Location: Gilbert AZ

OK calling all Gear Heads ... I know I saw it in one of the threads here. Tried to search for it but couldn't remember what they were called. Came back with lots of posts but still didn't find it.

Looking for some shoe inserts to extend the life of my current boots for a bit. Think they were called something like
Smart Feet or Happy Feet or something on that order.

Help me, Can anyone tell me what they are called? My feet will Love you !!!
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Davis2001R6 · Joined: 12 Dec 2003 Posts: 5591 Location: Italy

Superfeet Link

azbackpackr · Posted: 3/5/2008, 4:33 am Post subject:

Ditto, those work well.

Matt Hoffman · Joined: 18 Feb 2004 Posts: 701 Location: Grantham, NH

As always, I have to be different.

I think people only like Superfeet because REI tells them they do. I don't know what sort of brainwashing REI puts its employees through, but you won't find one alive who would recommend anything other than Superfeet. They seem to pass that brainwashing on to their customers.
Superfeet are so stiff, they seem to tire my feet out. I understand "supportive", but Superfeet are just plain stiff and uncomfortable.

I guess I need a bit more cushion. I prefer these insoles:
http://www.spenco.com/product/302-backpacker

I'm sure I'll catch the wrath of die-hard Superfeet fans. To each their own I suppose.
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Shawn · Posted: 3/5/2008, 7:21 am Post subject:

I don't know that they extend the life of boots, just feet. I use them and feel they help.
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fairweather8588 · Joined: 30 Dec 2003 Posts: 716

I've got some because people continue to buy me REI gift cards, even though I already have all of the gear I need. They helped my road running shoes get a little extra support for hiking, but i didnt really notice anything in my old trail runners or my thicker boots for that matter
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jdahling · Joined: 19 Jul 2007 Posts: 233 Location: East Valley

Adventurer · Joined: 31 May 2004 Posts: 13 Location: Mesa

Sportman warhouse has Spenco.

Davis2001R6 · Joined: 12 Dec 2003 Posts: 5591 Location: Italy

I haven't actually used the Superfeet insoles yet, they were recommended to me from a friend. I own a pair now, but am waiting for my trail runners to get wear out and then use these in there. I'm not hiking enough lately to wear anything out though Sad

wanderingsoul · Joined: 19 Jul 2004 Posts: 2285 Location: Gilbert AZ

Thanks all for the wonderful input... I will check out both and see what works best. I have a small dividend check from REI + 20% coupon, but I need something from Sportman Warehouse..so I'll probably check out both of them.

My feet will let you know ! Laughing

Just that my boots insoles aren't as comfy as they used to be. Musta broke them down some.
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Wanderingsoul (Michelle)

Positive Thinking Is the Spark that Makes Dreams Happen~~~Unknown

azbackpackr · Posted: 3/5/2008, 5:28 pm Post subject:

azbackpackr · Posted: 3/5/2008, 5:32 pm Post subject:

PS, one thing not mentioned, which I continually harp on, hoping some buyer from an outdoor store is reading this, is the lack of widths, especially narrows, in stock in these stores, and also half sizes in ladies shoes above a 10.

For the narrow foot problem I'd be lost without inserts. However, inserts really don't take the place of a shoe that actually is made to fit your size foot. Inserts don't help much with a narrow heel, for example.

I am still annoyed with REI in Tempe for their very poor service in the shoe dept. I'll go to Summit Hut in Tucson the next time.

SkyIslandHiker · Posted: 3/5/2008, 6:23 pm Post subject:

azbackpackr · Posted: 3/5/2008, 6:32 pm Post subject:

Merrells don't come in my size, last time I checked. They are very wide, and usually go only up to size 10 in ladies. I have been wearing the same Vasque boots for years, having them resoled, because I can't find any lighter boots to fit me. I guess I should check Sportsman's Wearhouse as they might have the Vasque in 11's. Vasque boots used to run pretty narrow, and sure are well-made. Another problem is I almost never go to Phoenix or Tucson. Haven't been down there in a couple of years now. Well, one of these days....

oliverr99 · Joined: 04 Jul 2006 Posts: 632 Location: Glendale

I also like Sport Chalet, they have pretty good sales on hiking shoes!
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