I’ll be the first to admit it: for a long time, I thought insoles (some say ‘footbeds’) were just an “extra.” And figured that if I bought high-quality ski boots or expensive running shoes, the factory liners should be enough. However, everything changed for me three years ago.
After dealing with a foot injury, I wasn’t just looking for “cool” shoes anymore; I was desperate for a way to stay active without pain. Stepping onto the Aetrex 3D Scanner at Sun & Ski Sports, was a total lightbulb moment. That scan didn’t just sell me a product; it showed me exactly how to support my feet. After all, everyone has their own unique shape. Three years later, I’m still wearing insoles, and I’m never going back.
Throughout this guide, I’ll use insoles, footbeds, and orthotics interchangeably. Technically, orthotics are specialized insoles. While a standard insole (or footbed) focuses on cushioning and “squish,” orthotics stabilize your arch and keep your feet in a healthy, neutral position.
If you’ve been wondering if insoles are worth it, here is the breakdown of why your feet (and your outdoor adventures) need them.
The 20-Second Discovery
The Aetrex Foot Genius Scanner isn’t just a scale or a fancy ruler. When you step on the pressure plate, it uses computer vision and 3D depth cameras to capture 16 precise measurements. In less than 20 seconds, you get a full digital profile of your feet, including:
3D Measurements
Exact length, width, girth, and instep. Girth is the total circumference around the widest part of your foot, measuring the overall volume rather than just flat width. The instep is the height of the top of your foot between your toes and ankle. Knowing both ensures your shoes or boots don’t feel too tight across the top or leave you with too much empty space, preventing common issues like circulation pressure or lack of control.
Arch Depth
Finally, see if you have flat feet, high arches, or if they’re collapsing (over-pronation). This data helps identify the root cause of fatigue by showing exactly how your arch behaves under your full body weight. By understanding your specific arch profile, you can select an orthotic (insole) that provides the precise structural support. Why? To keep your feet and ankles in healthy alignment throughout the day. I never knew I had high arches until I tried the Aetrex machine, and it’s made a huge difference!
Pressure Points
A heat map showing exactly where you’re carrying your weight. This is the “aha!” moment where you realize why your heels or the balls of your feet always ache by 2:00 PM.
Feel the Difference Test
Sun & Ski Sports takes your performance seriously, but we know talk is cheap. That’s why, when you come in-store, our Outdoor Experts don’t just hand you a box. They spend time helping you find a shoe designed to support your goals, literally. From gearing up for the slopes, marathon, or pickleball courts, we invite you to try the “One-Shoe Test”.
Performance Insoles for the Skier/Rider
Place a custom-selected insole in one of your boots and leave the factory liner in the other. Feeling that instant alignment in one leg versus the “hollow” feeling in the other is usually all the proof people need.
Shoe Insoles for the Runner
Swap the generic foam insert of your running shoe for a technical insole. As soon as you lace up, you’ll notice the difference in how your arch is supported and how your weight redistributes. It’s about keeping your foot in a neutral position, which can save your knees, hips, and back.
Why It’s a Game Changer for Your Adventures
Have you ever cut a hike short or headed to the lodge early because your feet were throbbing? Properly fitted insoles eliminate that. I’ve noticed a huge difference when traveling and walking miles a day while exploring a new city. When your feet are supported, you can adventure longer because your muscles aren’t working overtime to stabilize your arch.
For runners, every mile matters. Adding an orthotic can provide the alignment needed to reduce stress on the plantar fascia. From hitting the pavement or the trail, having an insole tailored to your arch type can be the difference between a personal best and a week on the sidelines.
Because the scanner creates a 3D profile, we can match your unique feet to specific ski and snowboard boots that fit your “volume.” No more guessing which brand runs narrow or wide.
I like the Aetrex system so much because the data is emailed to you instantly. This means the next time you’re shopping for running shoes or hiking boots, you have your FitGenius profile ready to go. You’ll know exactly what you need to stay comfortable on the trails, treadmill, or slopes.
Shop Insoles for Comfort and Pain Relief
Dealing with foot pain, heel pain, or conditions like plantar fasciitis is no fun. So, the right insoles can make a noticeable difference from the first step! If you have flat feet, high arches, or need better arch support, upgrading your insoles helps reduce strain and keeps you moving comfortably.
At Sun & Ski Sports, we carry insoles designed to support different foot types and activity levels. Using your Aetrex 3D scan results, our Outdoor Experts can recommend options that align your feet properly and relieve pressure where you need it most, so you’re not guessing.
Shop insoles by need:
- Arch support insoles for flat feet, high arches, and proper alignment
- Plantar fasciitis insoles to help reduce heel pain and tension through the arch
- Cushioned insoles for shock absorption and all-day comfort
- Performance insoles for running, hiking, skiing, and training
From everyday wear to high-impact adventures, the right insoles can help reduce foot pain, improve stability, and keep you going longer without discomfort.
Women’s L2300 Premium Memory Foam Aetrex Orthotics Insoles
Aetrex L1820 Edge Posted Orthotics Insoles
Men’s L400 Compete Orthotic Active Lifestyle Aetrex Insoles
Your Feet Carry You Everywhere, Give Them a Hand
If you’ve been pushing through “normal” foot fatigue or nursing an old injury, it’s time to stop compromising. Are you ready to adventure like never before? Just get the dang insoles. Your feet are the foundation for every vertical foot you climb and every mile you run; they deserve more than the generic foam insert.
So, head over to your local Sun & Ski Sports, where one of our Outdoor Experts will walk you through your 20-second scan. We aren’t just looking at size; we’re looking at how you move. You’ll walk out with your unique foot profile in your inbox and the absolute best insoles for your specific needs. Check out our wide variety of footwear, from sandals to running shoes to winter boots. Make sure you stay comfortable throughout your next adventure, from the first step to the very last.
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About the Author, Allie Cheney
Hello there :) Allie Cheney here! I'm a Texan turned mountain enthusiast with a twist. After a year of croissants and conjugations in France where I completed an MBA, I traded baguettes for mountain air and moved to Colorado. As a Copywriter and Content Creator for Sun & Ski Sports I'm thrilled to share my 6 years of outdoor industry knowledge with you! Living in a converted van, I'll be skiing along the Rocky Mountains and West Coast this winter. My aim is to deliver content that is not only accurate and genuine but also provides valuable knowledge and insights into your favorite hobbies, the latest trending styles, and cutting-edge products. Let’s explore together! For questions feel free to email me at ACheney@sunandski.com or contact an Outdoor Expert at any Sun & Ski Sports store location near you!