{"id":10219,"date":"2022-09-15T14:36:42","date_gmt":"2022-09-15T21:36:42","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.vionicshoes.com\/blog\/?p=10219"},"modified":"2025-09-27T06:51:22","modified_gmt":"2025-09-27T13:51:22","slug":"choosing-hard-or-soft-orthotics-for-plantar-fasciitis","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.vionicshoes.com\/blog\/choosing-hard-or-soft-orthotics-for-plantar-fasciitis\/","title":{"rendered":"Choosing Hard or Soft Orthotics for Plantar Fasciitis"},"content":{"rendered":"

\"person<\/a><\/p>\n

When you have <\/span>plantar fasciitis<\/b>, the simplest activities you once took for granted can, at times, seem unendurable. Going for long walks, standing in barely-moving check-out lines, or just swinging your feet over the bed to get up in the morning can inflict intense pain that could have you rethinking the importance of feet altogether.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

But don\u2019t take it out on those two champions who keep you upright and mobile daily! 1 in every 10 people develops plantar fasciitis, and if you\u2019re one of them, there <\/span>are <\/span><\/i>ways to bolster your comfort.1<\/sup><\/span> For many people, it starts with a quality pair of orthotic inserts.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

That said, choosing the best pair isn\u2019t as simple as grabbing the first ones you see on the rack. Below, we explain the difference between soft and hard orthotics, how to decide between them, and ways you can support your plantar fasciitis thereafter.<\/span><\/p>\n

Hard vs Soft Orthotics for Plantar Fasciitis: What\u2019s the Difference?<\/b><\/h2>\n

When it comes to orthotic insoles, there are many options in styles, texture, and design. Many people have custom-made orthotics modeled after the exact morphology of their feet, but studies indicate that even off-the-rack orthotics can be incredibly effective for alleviating the symptoms of plantar fasciitis.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Even so, you\u2019ll still need to make certain decisions surrounding <\/span>types of orthotics<\/span><\/a><\/span>, such as whether to opt for soft or hard designs. Before we dive into how to choose between them, let\u2019s look at how they differ.<\/span><\/p>\n

Soft Orthotics<\/b><\/h3>\n

Most soft orthotic inserts are made with an elastic but durable thermoplastic known as ethylene vinyl acetate (<\/span>EVA<\/b>)2<\/sup>.<\/span> Many people consider these to be the more comfortable option by virtue of their adjustability. Soft orthotics are also wonderful for reducing the likelihood of rubbing, which can often lead to blisters and sores. However, there are ways to prevent blisters when running<\/a><\/span> and doing other daily activities.<\/span><\/p>\n

Compared with hard orthotics, soft orthotics offer:<\/span><\/p>\n