If you’re on your feet a lot you know how important a good insole is. A lot of even the high end shoe manufacturers will put a cheap, made in China insole into their shoes. Ironically, bad insoles can make even the most expensive shoes worthless and good insoles can make the cheapest shoes comfortable and healthy.
I was pleased to see a lot of options here. As we saw with other medical devices like reading glasses, the absolute best are still made in the USA and Europe. But when you search Amazon, all you see are cheap ripoffs from China manufacturers who attempt to reverse-engineer their designs and make them look as close as possible from a visual design perspective. Even big companies like Dr. Scholls couldn’t resist the temptation to send production to China—I used Dr. Scholls for years and their . Shame on them.
Sadly, most Americans are completely fooled, not able to differentiate between low quality China crap and high quality. Amazon customers post rave reviews (many of which are fake ones the manufacturer buys) and those products end up dominating Amazon.
If you’ve been a victim of this scam that spans almost every industry, you’ve come to the right place. The ones below are the real deal from true innovators. Because they kept their manufacturing out of China, China has not been able to copy them.
The Best Insoles Not Made in China
1. McGear Insole Pro Sports
These are from a company out of Japan that’s been around for more than 90 years. The problem is, they don’t do marketing in the USA so no one here has heard of them—it took me a long time to find their Web site, which is in Japanese. They’re made by Murai Co., Ltd., a company that’s been around since 1931 and are headquartered in Tokyo with manufacturing facilities in Yoshimi.
It’s the kind of company that big multinational conglomerates bought up, gutted, and whose technology and production IP were sent to China. Kudos to this company for not giving in to these companies and venture capitalists and keeping their technology proprietary.
You can buy different designs (by color) for hiking, walking, golf, and running. I got a chance to try these myself and they’re really next-level good. I replaced the insoles that came with my shoes and my feet felt great, dry, and comfortable. These are by far my new favorite insoles, much better than Dr. Scholls.
2. UOG Heavy Duty Memory Foam Insoles
The UOG Heavy Duty Memory Foam Insoles earns a spot for its U.S. manufacturing, advanced comfort features, and health-forward design. Made by United One America, these insoles use Black Diamond Carbon Technology to boost circulation, reduce fatigue, and fight odor naturally—without relying on gimmicks or outsourced production. They’re breathable, supportive, and versatile enough for work boots, sneakers, or casual shoes.
If you’re looking to support American manufacturing while giving your feet serious all-day relief, UOG delivers a smart, dependable alternative.
3. Easyfeet Kinergy Plantar Fasciitis Inserts
These Easyfeet Premium Anti-Fatigue Insoles stand out as a good option for anyone dealing with plantar fasciitis, high arches, or long hours on their feet. I remember dealing with plantar fasciitis a few years back when I foolishly bought a pair of made in China shoes that I later realized were half a size too small. These would have come in handy.
They’re designed with firm arch support, deep heel cups, and shock-absorbing materials, providing real structural relief while improving posture and comfort. They’re good for work boots, sneakers, or daily wear, and some reviewers have mentioned notable back and foot pain relief.
Some report a long break-in period and occasional squeaking, but the overall build quality, comfort, and pain management benefits make them a reliable alternative to mass-produced insoles from overseas.
Easyfeet also makes other insoles for activities like fitness, work, and hiking. Their pricing is excellent, especially for a made-in-USA insole.
4. Pedag Viva Sport
Handmade in Germany, the Pedag Viva Sport insoles are one of the few non-China-made options that combine orthopedic performance with thoughtful, eco-conscious design.
They work for both low- and high-impact activities and feature a semi-rigid footbed, metatarsal pad, and generous heel cushion to stabilize and support the foot during prolonged movement.
They’re vegan-friendly, skin-safe, and crafted using natural, responsibly sourced materials—making them a favorite among those who value sustainability as much as comfort. Whether you’re managing plantar fasciitis, standing all day, or seeking more alignment in your stride, Viva Sport delivers exceptional German quality.
5. Enertor Running Insoles
These were named as Wirecutter’s best insoles for running, and shockingly given that it’s Wirecutter, it’s not made in China, it’s made in the UK.
These insoles offer thoughtful support: a slightly raised heel for cushioning, a met pad to ease pressure on the forefoot, arch support for better stability, and a subtle drop point to help with toe comfort. They’re thin and lightweight, so they slip easily into most athletic shoes—whether you’re running, hiking, or training. Best suited for people with neutral foot motion or mild pronation, they work well in shoes with removable insoles.
6. Superfeet High Arch Insoles
Wirecutter also named these as their top pick for high arches. It helps stabilize the feet while running, reducing stress on your feet, ankles, and back. They have a deep heel cup and other technology that provides support, stability, and disperses impact. They’re also great for odor control.
They’re a 100% employee owned business based in South Korea.
7. Currex RunPro
They also named these as their top insole for low arches. These are made in Vietnam.
It’s the first time I’ve seen the majority of products Wirecutter recommends for a category that are NOT made in China. Hopefully that a good sign of things to come (but don’t hold your breath).
CURREX insoles are designed to keep runners comfortable and injury-free. With flexible cushioning from heel to toe and support for all arch types, they reduce fatigue and help prevent issues like shin splints. A deep heel cup adds stability, while responsive cushioning boosts energy with every stride.
They’re breathable, moisture-wicking, and trim-to-fit, working well in most running shoes.
Conclusion
Happily, there seem to be a lot of options. Remember, anything you buy in China is likely to be made of cheap materials and the result of some China manufacturer reverse-engineering someone else’s design, stealing it, and selling it. I’m glad to see so many in this category who kept their technology safe from China’s grip. You’ll want to make sure to buy from the original.
Know of any other insole makers not in China? Let us know in the comments!
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