How We Test
Our Core Principle
We only recommend what we have physically tested. Every product reviewed on Plantar Proof was purchased with our own money. No brands sent us free products in exchange for reviews.
Standardized Footwear
To eliminate shoe-to-shoe variation, we wear every insole in the same two pairs of shoes for the entire test period:
- Asics Gel-Kayano 30 (D width) — daily use, walking, commuting
- Clarks London — office/dress use
This lets us compare insoles on a fair, like-for-like basis and also tells us which orthotics are too thick for dress shoes.
Test Duration
Each insole is worn for a minimum of 42 days (6 weeks). This is long enough to observe real-world durability and arch compression, which short-term reviews completely miss.
What We Measure
| Metric | Tool / Method | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|
| Arch Height (mm) | Digital calipers — measured at highest point of medial arch | Tells you whether the insole maintains support or collapses over time |
| Heel Cup Depth (mm) | Digital calipers | Deeper heel cups provide better rearfoot stability |
| Product Weight (g) | Kitchen scale | Heavier insoles add shoe weight; important for walkers |
| Break-in Period | Daily wear notes | Rigid insoles can cause initial discomfort; we document this honestly |
| Durability Check | Visual inspection + re-measurement at day 42 | Cheap foam compresses; we measure how much arch height is lost |
| Morning Pain Score | 1–10 scale, logged first thing each morning | The primary outcome most readers care about |
What "Tested on Spec Only" Means
For some products — particularly shoes — it is not always practical to wear-test every model. When we evaluate a product based on the manufacturer's stated specifications, official sizing charts, return policy, and independent user data (not our own wear data), we state this clearly on the product card. No "spec-only" product will ever be called "our top pick" — only products we physically wore can hold that designation.
Medical Disclaimer
We are not medical professionals. Our testing is that of consumer-level evaluation, not clinical assessment. The information on this site is not a substitute for professional podiatric or orthopaedic advice. If your plantar fasciitis pain has not improved after 6 weeks of conservative treatment, please see a licensed healthcare provider.