Heat Moulding Process
» I followed the Fitting Instructions and moulded the insoles, but I can't see any difference in the shape.
» What happens if the Opti-Therm Indicator falls off or does not work?
» Can I mould the insoles in my microwave?
» Should I wear socks during the moulding process?
» Should I remove the existing factory insoles before inserting the SOLE Custom Footbeds in my shoes?
» When I heated my insoles they curled up on the sides, should I use them anyway?
» I have a high-arched foot, should I mould the insole?
I followed the Fitting Instructions and moulded the insoles, but I can't see any difference in the shape.
The reason SOLE Custom Footbeds are so effective at increasing comfort and performance, while reducing pain and the chance of injury is because of their orthopaedic shape. The insoles are designed to mould to your unique feet without losing this supportive shape. During the moulding process the insole contours to the subtle nuances of your foot and footwear, but because it retains the orthopaedic shape, it may appear that the insole has not moulded very much. If you are unsatisfied with the level of moulding you can put them back in the oven for a slightly longer period (no more than 3 minutes) and re-mould them. This will enhance the moulding properties of the footbed, but may also affect the level of support the footbeds will offer. You can also try moulding the insole without any socks on. This will increase the visible impression made in the forefoot area.
What happens if the Opti-Therm Indicator falls off or does not work?
The Opti-Therm Indicator is not crucial to the moulding process. Preheat your oven to 90°C and place the insoles in the oven on the centre rack. Make sure that the insoles stay in the oven for no less than 2 minutes, and no longer than 3 minutes. By closely monitoring the amount of time the insoles are in the oven you will ensure they are sufficiently heated for moulding, without getting overheated.
Can I mould the insoles in my microwave?
No, if you try to use a microwave the insoles will be ruined. The reason for this is that a microwave does not heat evenly. Large areas of the insole will completely melt almost instantly, while other areas will not even get warm. If you do not have access to a conventional oven, place the insoles in your footwear without heating them. Over time, the heat from your feet will wear mould the insoles.
Should I wear socks during the moulding process?
It is personal preference whether you wear socks during the moulding process or not. We recommend replicating the combination of foot, sock, and footwear that you plan to use the insoles with. If you normally wear socks with this footwear, then wear socks during the moulding process; if you do not normally wear socks, then avoid wearing socks while moulding. Some users have found they get a slightly improved mould in the forefoot area if they do not wear socks during the moulding process.
Should I remove the existing factory insoles before inserting the SOLE Custom Footbeds in my shoes?
If the factory-supplied insoles that came with your footwear are removable, we recommend you do so. Leaving them in may interfere with the effectiveness of your new SOLE Custom Footbeds. If the factory insoles are not removable you can still use SOLE Custom Footbeds, but you may need to use our low volume Slim Series to ensure your footwear does not become too tight with SOLE inside.
When I heated my insoles they curled up on the sides, should I use them anyway?
No. If the insole curls up in the oven, it usually means that they have been overheated, and have lost their supportive shape.
If it has been less than 90 days from the date of purchase, we will replace them free of charge. If you purchased the insoles on yoursole.com, or directly over the phone, please call us at 0845 644 3742 for an exchange. If you purchased them at a retail store or from your foot health professional's office, please contact them for a replacement.
I have a high-arched foot, should I mould the insole?
Try wearing the footbeds without moulding them to see if you prefer it. By not moulding the insoles, the arch area retains maximum rigidity, offering additional arch support. If you decide you would prefer to mould the insole, you can still do so by following the fitting instructions.