5 Best Insoles for Tennis Players to Prevent Plantar Fasciitis
Updated June 23, 2023.
Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common injuries reported by both recreational and elite athletes. Inflammation in the plantar fascia causes intense pain, especially in the area surrounding the heel, and sports that involve running and long hours of play, like tennis, are more likely to develop plantar fasciitis.
There are a number of plantar fasciitis exercises to alleviate pain; however, wearing the correct orthotics is an extremely effective way to prevent and manage the condition. Below is a list of the best orthotic options for you to consider to play tennis pain-free.
1. Upstep | Tennis Custom Orthotics
2. Protalus | T-100 Elite Insoles
3. SOLE | Performance Medium Insoles With Met Pad
4. Superfeet | ME3D Insoles
5. URthotics | Active/Sports Insoles
1. Upstep | Tennis Custom Orthotics
Pros
- Custom-made
- Affordable
- FSA & HSA eligible
- 180-day money-back guarantee
- Suits grass and hardcourts
- At-home impression kit
Cons
- Short waiting period before receiving orthotics
Upstep's Tennis Custom Orthotics are specifically designed to the shape of your feet by podiatrists to provide stability and cushioning to your feet. Made from EVA materials, these orthotics are durable and aim to improve the dynamic range of your feet while you partake in your tennis game.
Intended for both grass and hardcourt tennis shoes, these custom insoles can help to relieve plantar fasciitis symptoms by supporting your foot and redistributing any weight.
2. Protalus | T-100 Elite Insoles
Pros
- Comfortable and thin design
- Ideal for standard-volume shoes
- Higher sides for pressure distribution
- Anti-slip ridges
- 90-day money-back guarantee
Cons
- Not custom-made
- Self-trimming may cause improper fit and support
- Not durable in the long-term
Protalus T-100 Elite Insoles aim to provide moderate support to the length of your foot, reduce shock applied to your foot (specifically your heel), and support your foot arch. The anti-slip ridges help to increase your foot's stability by gripping the inside of your shoe.
However, these insoles are bought as is and must be trimmed to fit. If done incorrectly, this may cause an improper fit and provide insufficient support.
» Already have plantar fasciitis? Purchase the best insoles for plantar fasciitis-related calf pain
3. SOLE | Performance Medium With Met Pad
Pros
- Sustainable base of recycled wine corks
- Prioritizes forefoot comfort
- Odor control
- 90-day money-back guarantee
Cons
- Incorrect mold may cause insufficient support
The SOLE Performance Medium Insoles with Met Pad offer a medium-cushioned footbed made from recycled wine corks. A metatarsal pad for forefoot support can help reduce plantar fascia pain by supporting the natural spread of your foot bones—especially helpful during a tennis game.
These insoles require you to heat up and mold the insole to the shape of your feet before inserting them into your shoes. If the insoles don't mold to your foot shape correctly, the improper fit may worsen your symptoms.
4. Superfeet | ME3D Insoles
Pros
- Custom-made
- 3D printed
- Odor control
- 60-day guarantee
Cons
- Biometrics must be measured at a retailer
- Waiting period before receiving orthotics
The Superfeet ME3D Insoles are custom, 3D-printed insoles designed to meet the needs of your feet. With five independent zones tuned to adapt and respond to how your feet move, these insoles aim to provide comfort and stability. As an added touch, you can even have your name engraved onto the insoles.
However, you have to visit a retailer to have your biometrics measured before your insoles can be ordered. This may be inconvenient in comparison to the at-home kits of other insoles.
5. URthotics | Active/Sports Insoles
Pros
- Custom-made
- FSA & HSA eligible
- 6-months money-back guarantee
- At-home impression kit
Cons
- Waiting period before receiving orthotics
- Not specifically designed for tennis
URthotics Active/Sports Insoles are custom-made insoles designed for those participating in sports or living an active lifestyle. These insoles are durable and provide custom arch support, cushioning, stability, and motion control.
While not specifically designed for tennis, these insoles can help lessen the symptoms of plantar fasciitis.
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Choose the Best Orthotics for You
As an athlete, it's best to be proactive regarding your foot condition to ensure it doesn't worsen and for you to keep performing optimally. Custom-made, sport-specific orthotics can significantly contribute to this by helping to alleviate your plantar fasciitis symptoms and prevent injury.
