Insoles

[Ironman8]

Are insoles used only for better boot fit, or can they be used to stiffen the sole and increase the load that the boots can hold while supporting your foot (and reducing fatigue)?

Reason I ask is because I was wondering how plausible it is to have a "hiking class" boot and use an insole to make it more into a "backpacking class" boot...or from "backpacking" to "mountaineering"....as opposed to having a really stiff boot that feels too clunky for anything but mountaineering.

(Talking only about sole stiffness here...not any other features that determine the class of boot)

 

[Darren Best]

I have used SuperFeet, Meindl, Salomon, Vasque, Lowa and Lathrop and Sons Synergy foot beds, none of those stiffen a boot.

Superfeet have the most dramatic effect on fill and profile depending on which color you get. The green SuperFeet have a plastic cup under the heel, but do not stiffen the boot to any noticeable degree.

The Synergy inserts are thin and very spongy, quite comfortable actually, but offer little support and no stiffness at all. So far they are my favorite by far.

To answer you question more to the point, they are used to give more cushion and improve fit, but do not make a boot stiffer.

 

[Ironman8]

Thanks Elkhunter. I'm using the Synergy insert in my Asolo Fugitives and it made a huge difference in comfort, but you're right, no extra support. Don't have any experience with SuperFeet or Sole inserts so didn't know if they would do what I wanted. I may need to get a stiffer boot for the elk hunt I'm hoping to do this year...not sure if the Fugitives are up to the task if I were to pack out an animal over steep terrain.

 

[Derek0525]

I just ordered some lowa tibets and was looking at insoles are the synergy that my h better then the super feet? Was going to order the synergy but it's $11 shipping which makes them twice as expensive as the super feet.