Now that the weather is warming up, it means more time spent outside. Whether you enjoy taking long walks, playing pickleball or going on runs, regardless of the shoes you plan on wearing, they should benefit the overall health of your feet.

If you struggle with foot pain, now might be a good time to think of ways you can take care of your feet — like investing in a quality pair of inserts.

"Having the proper foot and ankle support in your shoes will help to reduce pain, support proper foot alignment and keep you comfortable," Jacqueline M. Sutera, DPM, tells Shop TODAY. "Inserts help to reduce excessive pronation, which is a contributing factor to flat feet," she adds.

But which one is the right insert for your feet — and do you need them? We spoke to podiatrists about how to choose inserts and who would benefit the most from having them.

What to consider when shopping for shoe insoles

There are two types of inserts: those that you can purchase over the counter or at the store, and those that you need a custom consultation for, says orthopedic surgeon Dr. Bonnie Chien.

But if you don't want to break your bank with a custom insert, you can also opt for a store-bought insole. There are a few qualities to look out for when purchasing an insole on your own, however.

"You want to look for materials that are semi-resistant, materials that actually provide support," New York-based podiatrist Ernest L. Isaacson, DPM PC, says, adding, "You want something that actually contours the arch and resists bending."

Isaacson suggests that people with a higher arch use a less rigid type of insert. They should also look for an insert that will contour the arch and essentially bring the ground up. On the other hand, those with flat feet might want an insole with a bit more structure, the podiatrist explains.

"Shoe inserts come in many different styles and materials," Sutera adds. "The type that is best varies from one person to another, and really does depend on the shoe and activity as well.

But in general, she recommends materials that are semi-rigid or semi-flexible, "like graphite with a cushioned top cover made from Poron or EVA are durable, comfortable and give the most support without so much bulk."

Who needs shoe inserts?

"I think typically, if somebody is doing totally fine in their regular shoe, I don't think you have to get an orthotic or an insert, whether it is custom or over the counter," Chien says. "I think it's mainly for comfort, like accommodation of somebody's foot or sort of functional support."

She goes on to explain: "I see foot arch, for example, like a spectrum, like hair — like curly hair and straight hair. So, some people have really curly hair, and it may be that sometimes they have to take care of their hair a little bit more," Chien says, adding that it's a parallel scenario when it comes to flat feet.

"Some people have really flat arches, and that can sometimes be more of an issue that they have to focus on," she explains.

For those who do need shoe inserts, we asked podiatrists for their top recommendations so you can treat your feet with care. Read on to see their top picks, as well as Shop TODAY's own recommendations based on our research, bestsellers and customer reviews.

Start TODAY x Shop TODAY Wellness Awards 2023: Best shoe insert

Category: Best Overall

“Vionic insoles are very well constructed, durable and provide good comfort with orthotic support,” says Dr. Carl Giordano, co-founder and chief science officer of Rebesana, of these insoles that earned Best Overall in the Insole category.

Production associate Jill Ortiz slipped these into a pair of sneakers that “desperately” needed them, noting that she wore them on a regular basis while commuting to work and on the weekends.

Made with an EVA plastic shell on the outsole for stability and a cushioned sock on the upper for comfort, these insoles fit right in her shoe, integrating comfort into her everyday routine.

The best shoe inserts, according to podiatrists

Walk Hero Comfort and Support Insoles

The current No. 1 bestselling shoe insert on Amazon, this insole is made with three layers of foam and cushioned material to keep feet cool and comfortable. They're suitable for a wide range of activities and shoppers have awarded them over 41,000 verified five-star ratings. What's more, two podiatrists vouch for this affordable pick, as well.

"They look to be durable and have a good combination of support and cushion," Sutera tells us, adding that the insert's deep heel cup is good for those dealing with heel pain, overpronation or plantar fasciitis.

Stephen Pribut, an assistant clinical professor of surgery at George Washington University School of Medicine, echoes, "They look like a good combination of structure [and] shape and are soft enough to be comfortable."

Spenco Polysorb Cross Trainer

Dr. Tracey Vlahovic, clinical professor of podiatry at Temple University in Philadelphia, recommends these insoles from Spenco, especially for those with generalized foot pain or conditions such as plantar fasciitis.

"I recommend the full-length version and always remind patients to wear them in both shoes — sometimes people think you should only wear them on the foot that is painful — and to remove the sock liners in the sneakers prior to placing the insoles in the shoes."

Redi-Thotics Flex Orthotic Insoles

utera recommends insoles from Redi-Thotics for foot pain. They're made with a foam base, a plush top layer and extra cushion for comfort and stabilization, the brand says.

"If you have a flatter arch type foot, increased arch support can help to reduce the likelihood of plants fasciitis and offer pain relief," Sutera says, adding, "Sometimes, however, custom-made orthotics may be necessary, which can be made by your podiatrist."

Superfeet Green Insoles

Sutera also likes this popular option from Superfeet, which makes several kinds of insoles for different sports and athletic needs.

The green inserts are made with a high-density foam that can be trimmed to fit into your shoes. With a stabilizer cap, a deep heel cup and the signature Superfeet shape, they help with natural shock absorption and offer comfort, according to the brand.