Shin Splints suck. Unfortunately they are a very common issue that affects cross country runners. What causes Shin Splints is repeated stress and strain on the Tibia that results in a stress fracture like phenomenon. So the goal when treating shin splints is to reduce stress and strain on the Tibia. One way this can be accomplished is via a shin splint compression brace. Sometimes something as simple as this can be very effective in treating shin splints, especially for someone that runs regularly.
Now when looking for orthotics to help with the treatment of Shin Splints as a cross country runner we are looking for two main traits:
1) Reduce stress and strain. If the orthotic does not provide padding to reduce stress and strain then it will not help shin splints.
2) Sleek and durable. When you are running this causes a lot of stress on your orthotics and also you want to be sleek in order to not affect your running.
SmartSole Insoles: If you are looking for an orthotic thats sole goal is to reduce stress and strain SmartSole maybe the answer. Take a look at these orthotics. This orthotic was designed basically for one purpose: to reduce stress. I mean all you have to do is look at the padding in the heel of the area.
Physix Gear Insoles: Now if your goal is to look for support and an orthotic that is ideally built for a runner, this might be the orthotic to try. As you see it has a more rigid and sleek design. This orthotic is also crafted EVA that forms the body of the orthotic. What the EVA will do is mold and contour to your feet, providing a support almost specifically designed for your foot.
Superfeet is actually the orthotic I recommend for most impact athletes. These orthotics tend to be designed with athletes and high activity people in mind. They also provide padding and stress reduction as well but are ideal for athletes as they provide support and reduce stress.