How insole options compare

Neutral, side-by-side comparisons of the main choices people weigh when looking at custom insoles.

Custom insoles vs. off-the-shelf insoles

Off-the-shelf insoles are mass-produced in a handful of generic shapes. Custom insoles are designed from one person's foot. Key differences: shape (generic averaged sizes vs. designed from your own foot scan or foam impression), support placement (fixed template zones vs. placed where your anatomy needs it), and reorders (buy another generic pair vs. reorder from your stored digital profile).

3D-printed insoles vs. foam-milled insoles

Both can be customised, but the production method changes weight, repeatability and how finely the support can be tuned. 3D-printed TPU insoles are typically lighter and thinner for the same support, can have different zones at different firmness levels, and are reprinted exactly from the same digital file. Foam-milled insoles are cut from a solid blank of one density and can compress over time.

Smartphone scan vs. foam impression kit

These are the two ways to capture your foot shape for insoles4.me. The smartphone scan requires an iPhone or iPad with Face ID (TrueDepth camera — Android and other devices are not supported) and sends data digitally the moment you finish. The foam impression kit is posted to you, you press each foot into the foam, and return it prepaid. Both feed the same design and 3D printing workflow.