Superfeet Green Insoles

I've used my Vans Hi-Standard boots for a very long time, something far over one hundred days.  When I started noticing a change in control: snowboard not responding appropriately, an inability to support myself in a proper riding stance; and with immense pain and fatigue setting in early on every day, I had to find a way to breathe new life into them while I waited for a warranty on new boots to go through.

Pulling out my old insoles revealed a foam impacted to paper-thin thickness. Since, aftermarket insoles have quickly earned a reputation for their very positive effect on comfort and performance in boots, I decided to invest in some.

So what's all of the science backing the theory of aftermarket insoles? Superfeet claims that their insoles are specifically designed to facilitate proper alignment of the heel and ankle, as well as provide sufficient support to your arches in all of the right places.

Believe it or not, even right out of the box stock insoles don't offer much.  Poor design and weak materials leave a lot to be desired, and all to often cause your arches to collapse leaving your ankle bones and ligaments to carry that weight.  Over time you see where this would become a problem, especially if you spend more than thirty days a year on hill; nobody wants to be twenty-five and walking like they are eighty.

Superfeet Green are their all-around insole meant for most athletic footwear (I chose not to purchase the snowsports specific model as their only difference was heat retention, and my boots get toasty enough). A quick trace of the old insoles and a trim with scissors gave me a brand new insole that fit my boot perfectly.

Superfeet and the shop rep warned that there would be a few hours of mild pain/hot spots while my feet adjusted to the shape and support of the new insoles.  After two days of riding four or so hours, I made it through the break-in and was left with unparalleled comfort and performance.

I never thought my beat up old Vans would feel so good! Standing and walking didn't cause fatigue or cramping anymore, and riding felt even better! Having more support keeps my feet reactive; I'm more on my toes, adaptive and ready to react instantly.  Where I used to apply pressure with little to no result, now my movements transfer right away giving control back to me where it belongs.  My turns initiate quicker, ollies pop on demand, presses flex higher, and I'm able to approach and land bigger kickers with more stability.

The results I've had with a $34.95 pair of Superfeet Green leave me wondering why I put off the purchase for so damn long.  If the $150+ for a custom pair of insoles sits a bit far from your budget (and you are not alone), I'd highly recommend these to any rider from the weekend warrior to the seasoned pro.

To learn more about Superfeet insoles, click right-a-here.