You suffer from foot pain while you play softball or after playing softball. Everybody tells you the same thing “wear some orthotics.” But there are hundreds of orthotics on the market. Which do you choose? There is not a “best” orthotic for softball players. Every softball player’s problem is different and will benefit from different orthotics. Now first you need a softball cleat that will tolerate an orthotic, all you need is a softball cleat with a removable insole.
Now the best orthotics for softball players in most cases are custom orthotics that can be made by a Podiatrist taking a cast of your foot, sending the cast to the lab and receiving an orthotic built specifically for your foot. Sometimes these orthotics are even covered by insurance. If not they can cost upwards of $500 for a pair. You can make them yourself cheaper. The link here will provide you how to make your own orthotic instructions:
Now, here is the list of the Best Orthotics for Softball Players. I have provided an analysis after the orthotic to help you narrow down your choices.
Spenco Kids Polysorb Premium Insoles– Does your child complain of a sore heel after softball, or does he suffer from Sever’s disease? (inflammation of the growth plate in the heel). This orthotic has a polyurethane base that absorbs a great deal of shock. This orthotic helps maintain maximum cushioning at heel strike. This orthotic has a 4 way stretch fabric so you do not have to worry about blisters with this orthotic. This orthotic would also be ideal for a child who has high arches complaining of pain in their foot. By helping absorb shock this will decrease the pain. One of the main problems in high arched children is their inability to absorb shock during running or walking. This orthotic is also very affordable only costing about $20.
Dr. Scholl’s Massaging Gel Sports Insoles– This orthotic is ideal for adults complaining of pain and discomfort in their foot after softball. This will help reduce shock via the gel insoles, by absorbing the pressure and stress on the foot. If you suffer from knee or hip issues such as arthritis this is a good orthotic for you as it will limit the trauma your foot and body feel.
Superfeet Premium Insoles– This orthotic is actually manufactured with the softball player who has medium to high arches. This orthotic reduces shock throughout the entire orthotic and helps reduce stress on the foot. Avoid this orthotic if you suffer from flatfeet. But, if after softball you complain of your feet being tired and sore this is a nice orthotic to help treat the issue, as it will support your arch and reduce fatigue in your feet.
Powerstep Pinnacle Orthotic Insert– This orthotic can help a great deal, for plantar fasciitis or flat feet in the softball player. Hypurcel foam that maintains its density and cushioning support covers the upper surface, and a soft EVA foam coats the undersurface. One of the best aspects of this orthotic is the built in propulsion in the orthotic that may assist you with the running and fielding in softball. This is my favorite orthotic for softball players.
Lynco Sports Orthotics– These orthotics come in different models depending on the issue. If you are suffering from pain in the metarsal area this orthotic company has an orthotic specifically for that. They have varying inserts for people from low to high arches, as well as separate orthotics for men and women. Click on the product to find the orthotic that suits you the best: