How Often to Change Your Insoles

Are your insoles running a bit thin?

Or maybe you forgot when you bought them and are wondering if it’s time to make a switch.

You're not alone.

Most people wear their insoles (and shoes for that matter) for far too long. It’s not just about having the latest styles or following the trends: it’s important to change your insoles to ensure your feet (and body) have proper support with every step you take.

In this guide, we'll dive into everything you need to know about changing your insoles, including how to tell when it's time for a new pair, the consequences of wearing worn-out insoles, and how long different insole materials typically last.

By the end of this guide, you'll be an insole expert, ready to keep your feet happy and healthy.

Signs It’s Time to Change Your Insoles

Your insoles work hard to support your feet, but they don't last forever. Here are some telltale signs that it's time to swap out your old insoles for a new pair:

Visible wear and tear: If you notice that your insoles are looking shabby, with visible cracks, tears, or compressed areas, it's definitely time for a replacement. By this stage, the structural integrity of your insoles is likely compromised and they won’t provide proper support for your feet.
Reduced cushioning: Over time, the cushioning in your insoles will compress and become less effective at absorbing shock. This is especially the case for foam insoles which tend to compact. If you feel like you're walking directly on the hard sole of your shoe, your insoles have likely lost their cushioning.
Increased foot pain: If you start experiencing more foot pain than usual, especially in your arches or heels, it could be a sign that your insoles are no longer providing the support your feet need. You may also want to consider a different type of insole when you buy your next pair.
Unpleasant odors: If your insoles are starting to smell funky, even after you've cleaned them, it's probably time to replace them. The odor could be a sign of bacteria buildup, which can lead to foot issues.

Go on and check your insoles to see if they match any of these signs. If they do, it’s time to make a switch (and we’d recommend you check out our shop to browse insole brands and categories).

What Happens if You Don’t Change Your Insoles

You might be thinking that wearing an older pair of insoles isn’t such a big deal.

After all, they’ve been fine so far, right?

While wearing worn-out insoles may not seem like a major cause for alarm, it can actually lead to an increased risk of injury or pain. The most common consequences of wearing worn-out insoles are:

Foot pain: Without proper support and cushioning, your feet are more likely to experience pain and discomfort, especially if you spend a lot of time on your feet.
Back and joint pain: Worn-out insoles can cause your body to be misaligned, leading to pain in your knees, hips, and back.
Increased risk of injury: Insoles that no longer provide adequate support can lead to an increased risk of foot and ankle injuries, such as plantar fasciitis or ankle sprains.
Reduced shoe lifespan: When your insoles are worn out, your shoes have to work harder to provide support and cushioning. This can lead to your shoes wearing out more quickly than they would with fresh insoles.

So avoid these consequences (and others) by swapping out your insoles for a fresh pair!

How Long Do Insoles Last (By Material)

Beyond noting obvious wear and tear, you should keep tabs on how long you’ve had your insoles and when to look for a replacement based on how long you’ve had them and their use.

The lifespan of your insoles depends on several factors, including the material they're made from, how often you wear them, and your individual foot type. Here's a general breakdown of how long different insole materials typically last:

How Long Do Foam Insoles Last?

Foam insoles may offer a lightweight solution to cushioning in your shoes, but they tend to wear out the quickest.

There are a few types of foam insoles that you may encounter, each will have a different lifespan:

Memory foam: Memory foam insoles are extremely popular, and for good reason as they conform to the natural shape of your foot with wear. It’s especially important to select high-quality memory foam insoles though, otherwise, they will flatten quickly and wear out within a month or two.
Polyurethane Foam: Also called PU, polyurethane foam is a popular material for insoles and tends to last long - up to a year or two with good care.
Plastazote foam: Plastazote is another popular material that is light yet sturdy and conforms to the shape of your foot with wear. Plastazote is less hearty than Polyurethane and tends to last around 6 months.

Their lifespan is affected by several factors, including:

Type of foam
Usage frequency
User's weight
Activity level
Foam quality

Daily wear, especially by heavier individuals or those engaged in high-impact activities, can significantly shorten the insoles' life. Higher-density foams generally offer better longevity.

It's time to replace your foam insoles when you notice visible compression or flattening, a decrease in cushioning feel, or a persistent odor that doesn't dissipate with cleaning. Regular inspection of your insoles can help you identify these signs early, ensuring you maintain proper foot support and comfort.

How Long Do Memory Foam Insoles Last?

Memory foam insoles are a popular choice (in addition to high-density foam insoles we just mentioned), however, when selecting memory foam insoles it’s important to prioritize quality if you want continued support for your feet. If you are looking for high quality memory foam insoles, Form Memory Foam Insoles are a great option.

Memory foam boasts many benefits due to its ability to conform to the natural shape of your foot. This ability to compress can lead to a short lifespan if the foam is not high quality as the pressure from standing and walking may turn your pair of insoles into a pair of pancakes within a month.

How Long Do Gel Insoles Last?

Gel insoles claim to provide excellent shock absorption with a long shelf life, but from experience, we find that gel insoles tend to wear out within 1-2 months depending on wear.

Now, how long gel insoles last will depend on:

Gel quality
Overall construction
Temperature exposure

But we’ve found that even the “best” gel insoles tend to wear thin sooner than other materials like cork, memory foam, or leather. For that reason, we don’t carry gel insoles on our site and generally recommend opting for a different material if you want a pair that will last you a season or longer.

How Long Do Cork Insoles Last?

Cork insoles are durable and have the unique ability to mold to the shape of your feet over time (just like our Birkenstock insoles).

Cork insoles typically last around 12 months with regular use (though they can last up to two years). The longevity of cork insoles is influenced by factors such as:

Moisture exposure
Foot sweat levels
Proper breaking-in

Keeping cork insoles dry is crucial for extending their life, as excessive moisture can lead to faster breakdown of the material. You should consider replacing your cork insoles when they no longer hold their molded shape, when you notice cracks or crumbling in the cork material, or if they develop a persistent odor that doesn't dissipate with cleaning.

How Long Do Leather Insoles Last?

Leather insoles are known for their durability and can last up to 2 years with proper care, although they may not provide as much cushioning as other materials.

To maximize the lifespan of leather insoles, regular maintenance is key. This includes cleaning and conditioning to prevent cracking, allowing them to dry completely between uses, and using cedar shoe trees to absorb moisture and maintain shape. Rotating between multiple pairs of insoles can also help extend their overall life.

You'll know it's time for new leather insoles when you notice visible wear-through spots, especially in high-pressure areas like the heel and ball of the foot. Another sign is the loss of the original leather smell, replaced by a persistent odor that doesn't dissipate with cleaning. With proper care, leather insoles can offer long-lasting comfort and support for your feet.

Benefits of Changing Your Insoles

Beyond a fresh-smelling pair of shoes, there are many benefits that come with regularly swapping out your insoles for a new pair.

The top benefits we feel are worth mentioning are:

Improved comfort: Fresh insoles provide better cushioning and support, making your shoes more comfortable to wear.
Reduced foot pain: With proper support and cushioning, new insoles can help alleviate foot pain and discomfort.
Better alignment: Insoles that aren't worn out help keep your body properly aligned, reducing the risk of pain in your knees, hips, and back.
Increased shoe lifespan: Regularly replacing your insoles can help your shoes last longer, as they won't have to work as hard to provide support and cushioning.
Improved foot health: Fresh insoles can help reduce the risk of foot issues like plantar fasciitis, blisters, and fungal infections.

How Often do People Typically Change Their Insoles

So, how often do most people replace their insoles? It varies depending on factors like how often you wear your shoes and what type of activities you use them for, but here are some general guidelines:

Casual wear: If you wear your shoes for casual, everyday activities, aim to replace your insoles every 6-12 months.
Athletic wear: If you use your shoes for high-impact sports or activities, you may need to replace your insoles more frequently, around every 3-6 months.
Work boots: If you wear work boots for long shifts on your feet, replace your insoles every 3-6 months to ensure proper support and cushioning.

We ran a survey of our customers to better understand how often they swap out their insoles. The top responses were:

Every 12 months (39.8%)
Every 6 months (25.8%)
Every 12+ months (23.9%)

Remember, these are just general guidelines. Pay attention to the signs that it's time to replace your insoles, and don't hesitate to do so when needed.

Save on Your New Insoles With Our 10% Auto-Ship Discount!

To help make sure you always have a fresh pair of insoles (and some savings in your wallet), we’ve added an auto-ship discount to all the insoles in our shop. Subscribe and save 10% on each order with an option to receive a new pair of insoles every 6, 9, or 12 months.

Looking for a Fresh New Pair of Insoles? Browse Our Shop!

Now that you're an insole expert, you might be in the market for a fresh new pair. Look no further than our online shop, where you'll find a wide selection of high-quality insoles for every type of shoe and activity. From foam and gel to cork and leather, we've got you covered. Don't let worn-out insoles hold you back - browse our shop today and take the first step towards happier, healthier feet!