Insoles don’t normally get much attention. If you are active though, and especially if you are a runner prone to plantar fasciitis or other running injuries, you really should give this area of gear some attention. With a variety of options, PORON has been a leader in this humble market since 1959. They offer so many insole choices, it could make your head spin. My long-distance training was causing me some unwanted pain, so I thought that I would try the brand’s newest model, a pair of performance cushioning insoles with moderate arch support.

Unlike some of the other insoles I’ve seen, like PORON’s trim-to-fit insoles, this pair offered a custom fit based on shoe size. I’ve learned the hard way that one brand’s size six is not necessarily the same as the other, so I was pleased when I found these insoles surprisingly accurate in size. They slipped easily into my shoe without leaving much space between where the pad ended and my shoe wall began. This meant avoiding the annoying possibility of having the insole seam cut into the bottom of my foot as I ran.

Unique to this model, the insole I tested was not a complete pad, like some of the other insoles I’ve seen. Instead, it stopped at the toes, which, though it offered discomfort if I rocked forward, was overall less bothersome than I originally believed it would be. The main problem I found with the shape came when testing it in aerobic training, because without the padding in that area my foot was more likely to move forward.

Like any cushion, adding something new to my shoes meant a slight adjustment, after all my runners are well-worn-in and meld to my foot comfortably as is. But, because of the slim design, I found that I soon forgot about the fact that they were in my shoe.

A great feature of these insoles was their ability to slide easily in place and firmly stay put, with the help of one simple adhesive strip at the heel. I was surprised that this one strip kept the insoles from moving not only when I ran, but also when I tackled diverse terrain, or even jumped. Similarly impressive was the arch cushion, which provided me with extra bounce in my stride. Tough terrain was also a little easier to handle, with the insoles easily absorbing the extra impact.

Even though I think these insoles are a great fit for the workout enthusiast, or even the short distance runner, I would shy away from them if endurance sports are your favorite. The main drawback that I found was my feet’s inability to breathe. The material, though it cushioned and was incredibly durable, stifled air circulation so the further I ran, the hotter my soles became. Since I was running in the cold, I was able to adjust relatively well, but I think that if I had run much further, I would have needed to stop and unlace my shoes so my feet could cool down a bit.

Overall, PORON does a great job of delivering a comfortable, cushioned insole. Though this particular model was not great for endurance, it definitely delivers for impact protection. I plan on giving the brand another try and seeing if I can’t find an insole that is better for my needs.

Images by Lauren Montemurri