Not everyone has the same foot, which is precisely why one insole works better than another. The shape of your arch determines how you walk, how your weight is distributed, and where you need extra support. If you buy an insole without knowing your foot type, there's a good chance you won't get the relief you're looking for. In this article, we explain the three arch types, how you can determine your foot type at home, and which insole is best suited for it.
The three arch types
The arch is the curve on the inside of your foot. Depending on how high or low this curve is, we distinguish between three arch types:
Low arch (flat foot): With a low arch, the curve on the inside of the foot has collapsed, causing the foot to almost completely touch the ground when standing. This is also known as overpronation or flat foot. Flat feet do not always cause discomfort, but with prolonged standing or walking, they can lead to fatigue, pain, and overuse, not only in the feet but also in the knees, hips, and lower back.
Normal arch: With a normal arch, the foot makes contact with the ground via the heel, the outer edge, and the forefoot, with a clear curve on the inside. This is also known as a neutral foot position. Even people with a normal arch can experience tired or painful feet with prolonged standing or walking; the right cushioning and support then make all the difference.
High arch (cavus foot): With a high arch, the curve on the inside is exceptionally high, causing the foot to only touch the ground with the heel and forefoot. This is also known as a cavus foot or pes cavus. Due to the limited contact surface, increased pressure occurs on the heel and forefoot, which can lead to painful pressure points, fatigue, and instability.
How to determine your arch at home?
You don't need a specialist to get a good idea of your foot type. The simplest method is the wet foot test.
Wet your foot and step onto a piece of paper or a dark surface. Look at the imprint your foot leaves:
• Do you see a wide, almost complete imprint without a clear curve? Then you probably have a low arch.
• Do you see a clear narrow bridge in the middle between the heel and forefoot? Then you have a normal arch.
• Do you hardly see a connection between the heel and forefoot? Then you probably have a high arch.
Still in doubt? A podiatrist or shoe specialist can accurately determine your foot type. The 4Allbrands Footdisc, a heat-sensitive disc on which you stand briefly, also provides a clear imprint of your arch.
Which insole suits your foot type?
Based on your arch, choose the correct variant from the 4Allbrands collection:
• Low arch? Choose LOW. The LOW variants are specially designed for flat feet and overpronation. They support the arch and bring the foot into a more natural position, which reduces pressure on the knees, hips, and back.
View the insoles for flat feet.
• Normal arch? Choose MEDIUM. The MEDIUM variants offer the right cushioning and support for a neutral foot position. Ideal for people who stand or walk for long periods daily and want extra comfort without heavy correction.
View the insoles for normal feet.
• High arch? Choose HIGH. The HIGH variants fill the high arch and improve the contact surface between the foot and the ground. This reduces pressure on the heel and forefoot and gives the foot more stability.
View the insoles for cavus feet.
Which model within your arch variant?
Within each arch variant, three models are available, each with a different level of support:
• Classic Insole: semi-orthopedic basic support, ideal for daily comfort and prevention
• Anatomical Insole: active correction of foot position, aimed at better pressure distribution
• Stabilizer Insole: maximum stability and control, for intensive use or heavy load
Not sure which model suits you best? View the full range on our insoles page and find the insole that fits your feet and use.