How to Fit Sports Insoles Inside Your Kids’ Cleats – Step-By-Step Guide
Children with foot conditions such as flat feet, Sever’s Disease, or Plantar Fasciitis are usually required to wear sports insoles inside their cleats for extra support and to prevent pain. Moreover, buying supportive cleats and insoles is simply not enough. One aspect that often goes overlooked is the fit of sports insoles within cleats. I have been fitting children’s shoes and orthotics for over a decade and I am going to show you how to fit sports insoles inside your kids’ cleats by following two simple steps.
When insoles don’t fit correctly inside cleats, several risks emerge that range from discomfort to improper foot alignment, which increases the potential for injuries like blisters, plantar fasciitis, or ankle strains. Conversely, when the insoles fit correctly, they provide arch support, cushioning, and can be a game-changer for injury prevention and performance. This fit can enhance your child’s athletic abilities by allowing for efficient energy transfer and reducing fatigue.
A Step-by-Step Guide to Fitting Sports Insoles in Cleats
Getting the insoles to fit perfectly in your kids’ cleats is not a complex task, but doing it carefully ensures that each game or practice session is enjoyable and free from unnecessary foot pain. I’ll walk you through each step.
1️⃣ With the new insoles in hand, gently remove the existing insoles from your child’s cleats. This is usually straightforward but be gentle to avoid tearing any material. Once removed, clean any debris inside for a fresh start.
2️⃣ Fit the sports insoles into the cleats. They should lay flat against the bottom. If they’re bunched up or too tight at the edges, they may not provide the intended support or comfort. Check the insole alignment from heel to toe by sliding your hand and making sure there is not too much extra space between the end of the insole and the end of the cleats.
3️⃣ Make sure the insole is fitting deeply inside of the cleats. Below you can find an example of an insole that was fitted correctly and sits deeply inside the cleats:
Below you can find an example of an insole that was fitted inside the wrong pair of cleats as it’s sitting too high up.
In some cases, you might need to trim the new insoles for a perfect fit. Most insoles have guidelines that help you cut neatly and safely. Always trim conservatively; you can always cut away more, but you can’t add back what’s been removed.
Apply This Amazing Shoe Lacing Technique
After fitting the insoles inside, it’s key to ensure they stay in place. Lace the cleats snugly. The lacing should hold the insole securely without being so tight that it’s uncomfortable for your child. A shoe that’s properly laced will help the insole perform its job without sliding around. I learned a specific shoe lacing technique that works amazing for children who wear orthotics.
By following these steps, your child’s cleats are now ready with their new, supportive insoles. But the process doesn’t end here. The last stage is about sourcing the right cleats to partner with those insoles, which I’ll cover in the next section.
Top Picks: Navigating Choices for Insole-Compatible Cleats
Not all cleats are made alike, and some work better with added insoles than others. When shopping for cleats, prioritize those specifically designed with firm heel counters and extra depth. They generally have more depth and a removable factory insole, allowing for a custom fit option. Also, ensure you’re getting the correct type of cleats for the sport, whether it’s soccer, football, or any field sport. Don’t hesitate to email me if you need specific cleat recommendations.
When trying the insoles with the cleats, make sure your child wears the same kind of socks they’ll wear during games or practice. Watch them walk, run, and perform sport-specific movements to ensure there’s no slippage or discomfort.
Why Professional Fitting Matters: Insights from a Shoe Fitter
I understand it can seem convenient to grab a pair of off-the-shelf cleats and insoles for your child, but I encourage you to consider professional fitting as a crucial step. Expert shoe fitters bring a wealth of knowledge and can make a huge difference in your child’s comfort and performance on the field.
I am happy to assess your child’s foot shape, arch type, gait, and specific sporting requirements. My recommendations will not just focus on the immediate fit but also on providing room for growth, especially important for children whose feet are still developing. I created a shoe fitting resource that will help you figure out exactly what shoe size you should order online. Many families from all over the world have been taking advantage of this free resource.
How to Fit Sports Insoles Inside Your Kids’ Cleats – Watch Video!
I also created a video that demonstrates how to fit kids’ sports insoles inside cleats. Seeing the process visually might help you understand each step clearly.
I hope this resource can help prevent injuries related to poor footwear fit, such as blisters, corns, or worse, strains and sprains. Investing time in finding the perfect pair of sports insoles and cleats can translate to greater athletic performance and, more importantly, to the long-term health and well being of your child’s feet.
