Product Review: RxSorbo Insoles

A while ago I was contacted by RxSorbo insoles regarding trying out their product.  Since my feet are troublesome, I didn't hesitate to accept.  Of course, I do have my own custom orthotics made by my podiatrist, but it wouldn't hurt to try other forms of foot comfort.  *Plus, read on for a giveaway...*

*Note: My feet are very strange and particular to certain shoes/insoles, etc.  In fact, ALL feet are different, so what might work/not work for me may work for someone else.  Use whatever feels right for you.

Product Description:

Sorbothane®, a one-of-a-kind visco-elastic polymer, was first introduced in 1982.  Primary applications included the development of shock absorbing insoles for the athletic and orthopedic markets.  Since its introduction Sorbothane® has been used in many varied energy absorbing product categories.  Sorbothane® Inc. engineers supplied the NASA design team with a unique Sorbothane® isolator to protect shuttle cameras during launch.  The Liberty Bell was successfully moved using specially designed Sorbothane® isolators.  When Wilson® Sporting Goods needed a superior shock absorber for their new line of high-tech baseball gloves, they turned to Sorbothane®.  Most recently, engineers have devised a series of colossal "ball-in-box" Sorbothane® dampers designed to dissipate wind energy in the new Air Force memorial. 

Sorbothane® is the only insoles material that absorbs up to 94.7% of impact shock; and unlike standard insoles, which can bottom out and lose effectiveness, Sorbothane® Insoles retain their support and comfort, month after month.  Lightweight and durable, they also breathe, which makes for a much cooler insole.

Sorbothane® Ultra Work Sport™ Insole

"A performance replacement insole featuring a cupped heal and molded arch for stability along with Sorbothane® inserts for foot-strike protection.  The Ultra Work Sport™insole works well in athletic shoes, work shoes and boots."














Sorbothane® SorboAir® Insole

"Designed for the fitness minded, SorboAir® insoles are 100% air-infused Sorbothane® from heel-to-toe.  Contoured, lightweight support and superior Sorbothane® comfort and protection."














My initial thoughts:

* Oooo, they're squishy!

* They seem really sturdy, compared to other gel insoles. 

* They actually fit in my shoes!

Now for the running test...

The first thing I noticed once I slipped these insoles in my Brooks shoes was that they are a little thicker than my normal insoles.  My feet felt more cramped and I had to loosen the laces quite a bit.  No biggie, I thought.  During the run, I couldn't really notice a difference comfort-wise, however, towards the end of three miles I did notice that my feet were getting a little numb.  Are my shoes still too tight?  I loosened the laces some more and kept going, but my feet didn't feel any better.  Very strange.  

The next night I tried the Ultra Work Sport™insoles and had that exact same problem: numb feet.  

So I decided to just try these insoles in my regular walking shoes and guess what? No numb feet!  In fact, my feet feel amazing using these insoles for walking or standing for long periods of time.  The cushion is just right and my feet don't feel as fatigued as they do with the normal insoles shoes come with.  Now, I regularly use the Ultra Work Sport™insoles in my walking shoes because they are a tad bit thinner/lighter than the normal SorboAir® insoles.  

Pros:

Excellent for walking shoes

The material is extremely sturdy & flexible

Insoles do not have a funky smell 

Catered sizes means the perfect fit

Feet (and shins) feel less fatigued

The material bounces back: enhanced durability

Cons:

Insoles are a little "heavy"

Insoles are rather thick and shoes must be loosened a bit

(For me: numb feet while running)

I've tried other insoles for my walking shoes (i.e. Dr. Scholl's) but after a while, the material goes flat and it doesn't support my foot anymore.  The RxSorbo insoles have been holding up a lot better and I can see them being a great investment for long-term wear.

Here's a chance to score your own pair of Sorbothane® Ultra Work Sport™ Insoles! A giveaway!  One person (male or female) will get to try out these insoles courtesy of RxSorbo.

Here's the scoop on how to win:

(1 comment = 1 entry) 

"Required" entry:  
Visit the RxSorbo site and tell me what product tickles your fancy (1 entry)

Additional entries: 

•  Become a follower and let me know in a comment (1 entry)
• Link this giveaway on your blog, Twitter (include @RunZoeRun), or Facebook.  Let me know in a comment (1 entry each, 3 possible)
• Become a Facebook fan of RxSorbo Insoles on Facebook (1 entry)

That's a total of 6 possible entries... 
The giveaway will end Friday 6/4, winners announced on Saturday the 5th.  RxSorbo will ship the merchandise directly to the winner. Simple as pie!

**Note:  All reviews are based on my own personal experience with the specific product that I was provided with.  I received these products free of charge from RxSorbo and was not compensated for my review. Product in giveaway provided courtesy of RxSorbo Insoles.**