Our feet are exposed to daily stresses as they carry us from point A to point B. Although they are precisely made for this and are a masterpiece of muscles, bones, and fine tendons, in certain situations our feet need support in the form of a suitable footbed and insoles.
What types of footbeds are there?
A footbed not only helps your feet prevent foot deformities and correct existing ones, but a footbed also guarantees an extra dose of comfort for your feet! Placed between the shoe and the foot, various footbeds can regulate temperature, optimize the shoe’s fit, and comprehensively support tired feet.
To help you know which footbed suits you, we have put together an informative guide on footbeds and insoles where we introduce different types of footbeds!
Relieving and supportive insoles and footbeds
Basically, there are three types of footbeds that serve a special function for our foot health :
- supportive footbeds
- relieving footbeds
- and corrective footbeds
A supportive footbed relieves the foot and promotes better posture by supporting the rolling motion when walking. Like the relieving footbed, which stabilizes the joints and cushions the impact when walking, it is especially suitable for people who walk and stand a lot.
This especially applies to people working in gastronomy, childcare, or healthcare! But also during pregnancy and if you often wear beautiful but uncomfortable shoes like high heels, you should support your feet well and walk barefoot as often as possible. Because even if you have a suitable insole, walking barefoot is good for every foot!
Corrective and orthopedic footbeds
A corrective or orthopedic footbed is only used when medically necessary and is always perfectly tailored to the individual wearer. The following foot deformities can be corrected this way, leading to an improved quality of life.
- Flatfoot: Flatfoot is a more pronounced form of fallen arches. Here, the foot lies completely flat on the ground because it lacks its longitudinal arch.
- Spread foot: Here, the forefoot is wider because the transverse arch of the foot is only slightly developed.
- Hallux valgus: This well-known misalignment of the big toe is very painful and usually occurs together with a spread foot. Hallux valgus is genetically determined, a result of connective tissue weakness, or can also be caused by improper footwear.
- Clubfoot: Here, the sole of the foot turns outward because the foot bends upward. Someone with a clubfoot can only walk on their heels.
Removable footbed for every foot
A removable footbed is characterized by being removable and can easily be placed in any shoe. Anatomically shaped footbeds are perfectly adapted to the individual physiology of each foot. A removable footbed does not always have to be purchased for a foot deformity: shoes that do not fit optimally can also be made suitable with a footbed, providing the necessary support and comfort . Slippers with removable footbeds are especially popular.
Furthermore, you should definitely pay attention to the materials used! Because not only the inside of the footbed plays an essential role in foot health, but the insole should also be made of natural materials. An insole made of wool felt, which consists of pure sheep’s wool, is our first choice at Haflinger because wool felt is…
- skin-friendly and feels pleasantly soft
- self-cleaning
- temperature insulating
- breathable
- odor-resistant
Cork-latex footbed and the thermo footbed
Moreover, especially as one gets older, it is advisable to opt for footbeds made of cork-latex mixtures . With age, the natural fat layer in the foot that cushions impact gradually diminishes. A cork-latex footbed compensates for the fat loss and gently cushions every step you take.
Last but not least, we certainly want to mention that there are thermo footbeds that cool your feet in summer and warm them in winter. These footbeds are especially suitable for children, as little children’s feet have more sweat glands than adults’ feet.
Load theory vs. rest theory:
Who is right?
On this point, the experts in foot health are divided.
But as is often the case when two opposing opinions face each other, both sides are somewhat right.
And also here a middle ground is recommended: a footbed that optimally supports and stabilizes the foot combined with a soft and flexible shoe with a minimal sole, or barefoot walking, to build and keep the foot muscles fit.
Finally, a mix of different shoes is also advisable to provide your feet with the necessary variety. Therefore, you should also consider getting a removable footbed tailored to you, so you can best support your feet depending on how you feel each day!
Haflinger: Perfectly fitted footbed for your feet
Healthy feet are a major factor when it comes to overall well-being . To maintain your foot health, you should always choose appropriate footwear in all situations.
And a high-quality footbed ensures exactly that!
It provides maximum wearing comfort and optimal support for every shoe.
If you also value natural materials when choosing a footbed and still walk barefoot regularly, nothing stands in the way of healthy feet!
