Tread Labs Insoles vs. The Good Feet Store
This blog compares Tread Labs insoles with The Good Feet Store arch supports, highlighting key differences in design, functionality, and customer experience.
The Basics: TL;DR ---
- Tread Labs Modular Design. Tread Labs insoles offer four customizable arch heights and a modular system, providing a near-custom fit with less effort and time.
- Ease of Access. Tread Labs insoles are easily ordered online with a simple fitting guide, while The Good Feet Store requires a lengthy in-store fitting and often recommends multiple pairs of arch supports.
- Customer Satisfaction. Tread Labs consistently receives high praise for value, comfort, and ease of use, while The Good Feet Store reviews are mixed, with some concerns about high costs and pushy sales tactics.
- Value Comparison. Tread Labs insoles are significantly more affordable and offer long-term durability with replaceable top covers, making them a cost-effective alternative to the multi-pair system recommended by The Good Feet Store.
Need To Know ---
Tread Labs insoles provide a convenient, effective, and affordable solution for those seeking high-quality arch support, standing out as a strong alternative to The Good Feet Store.
Table of Contents
- Key Differences: Comparison Chart
- Should I Buy The Good Feet Store Arch Supports or Tread Labs Insoles?
- Wrapping Up: Which Arch Supports are Right for You?
What are the differences between Tread Labs Insoles and Good Feet Arch Supports?
The chart below offers a direct comparison between Tread Labs Insoles and Good Feet Arch Supports. It provides a clear, side-by-side analysis of their key features and differences.
| Tread Labs |
Good Feet |
|
|---|---|---|
| Ease Of Access |
Easily ordered online. |
45-60 minute fitting required at one of the Good Feet Store locations. |
| Fitting | Easy online fitting guide along with free return/exchange shipping, ensures optimal fit from the comfort of home. | A salesperson will select the arch support 'package' that best suits you during an in-store appointment. |
| Arch Support |
Molded plastic arch support with open-cell polyurethane foam top cover. | Molded plastic arch support with generic foam top cover. |
| Firmness | 3 levels of firmness available (Firm, Extra Firm, Ultra Firm). | Good Feet advises purchasing all three firmness levels (Relax, Maintain, Strengthen). |
| Break-In |
Gradually increase use depending on comfort level. 0-2 weeks. |
Gradual progression (weeks-to-months) through multiple pairs of arch supports to eventually get to 'Strengthen' firmness.
|
| Sizing/Support |
US Gender-Specific Sizing. Available in whole sizes: |
300+ different styles, sizes, and levels of flexibility. Salesperson will help you select the appropriate fit. |
| Durability | Excellent. Lifetime-guaranteed molded plastic arch supports with durable replaceable top covers for purchase. | Most locations offer lifetime warranty on plastic arch supports along with replaceable top covers for purchase. |
| Fit Guarantee | Tread Labs offers a 90-Day satisfaction guarantee with free return shipping. | Varies depending on store franchise. |
| Odor Control |
PURE™ Silver Ion Treatment (long-lasting and will not wash out). |
Not specified. |
| Price |
Affordable, $60-$115/pair. |
Expensive, $450-$500/pair with 3-4 pairs generally advised. |
Should I Buy Good Feet Arch Supports or Tread Labs Insoles?
When it comes to finding the right arch support, Tread Labs insoles and The Good Feet Store arch supports are two popular choices. Both brands are known for offering firm support designed to alleviate common foot issues like plantar fasciitis and overpronation, however they differ significantly in a number of key ways. Here's a chart highlighting pros and cons of the Good Feet Store and Tread Labs.
| Tread Labs PROS |
Tread Labs CONS |
Good Feet PROS | Good Feet CONS | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Support System |
Modular design, 4 arch heights, 3 firmness levels, optional metatarsal pads, multiple top cover thicknesses all create a personalized fit that is super versatile for all types of footwear. Only need one pair. | Requires online self-assessment to determine arch height. Tread Labs' Insole Finder makes this easy. | Offers a progression of support levels to help your feet slowly adapt to effective arch support. | Requires purchasing multiple pairs. No customizable metatarsal pads. High ("Strengthen") arch supports are only suitable for some types of footwear. |
| Fitting Process |
Easy online fitting with 90-Day fit guarantee and free return/exchange. | No in-person fitting available. | Personalized in-store fitting experience. | Requires in-store visit and repeat visits to address any issues. |
| Customer Service |
Excellent. Comprehensive FAQ page, extensive blog archive, and responsive support via phone and email. | No in-person customer support available. | In-person service during initial consult. | Customer support varies widely between Good Feet Store locations because of the brand's franchise structure. Website lacks prices, transparent reviews, and essential product info. |
| Convenience |
Ordered online, delivered to your door. |
Self-guided purchase.
|
In-person consultation.
|
Time-consuming fitting process.
|
| Value |
|
High value, low price might tempt you to buy a new pair for every pair of your shoes. |
Lifetime warranty on arch supports, in-person fitting, replaceable top covers. |
~10x more expensive than Tread Labs when purchasing the 3 advised models. |
By focusing on modular design and ease of use, Tread Labs insoles provide an excellent alternative to The Good Feet Store arch supports, offering similar levels of support and durability without the time and money investment required by The Good Feet Store.
Customer Satisfaction
When it comes to customer feedback, both Tread Labs and The Good Feet Store have their share of reviews. However, it’s important to note that Tread Labs transparently publishes all reviews, regardless of rating, while The Good Feet Store selectively publishes only their 5-star reviews. Despite this, user experiences shared on various online forums like Reddit reveal significant differences in satisfaction levels between the two brands.
Tread Labs Customer Reviews
- High Satisfaction. Customers frequently praise the comfort and effectiveness of Tread Labs insoles, particularly noting the four arch heights and durability.
- Value for Money. Many reviews highlight the affordability of Tread Labs insoles, emphasizing that they provide excellent support without the high cost associated with Good Feet arch supports.
-
Ease of Use. Users appreciate the modular system, which allows for easy replacement of top covers and adjustments to fit.
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High Arch Heaven
"The Tread Labs insoles have been perfect for me across the board in all my footwear. I have a very high arch and have tried superfeet, sole, and even the Good Feet insoles. Super feet and sole could never provide enough arch support and the Good Feet system was too much for me to keep track of and their insoles fell apart pretty quick. Tread Labs are an easy set it and forget it product and being FSA approved is amazing. Also, putting the 2/3 length insoles in my ski boots has transformed them into the most comfortable pair of ski boots I've ever had."
— John M., Verified Buyer (Tread Labs Pace Thin Insoles Review)
The Good Feet Store Reviews
- Mixed Feedback. While some customers report positive experiences with The Good Feet Store, many express concerns about the high costs and the pressure to purchase during in-store consultations.
- Effectiveness. Some users find relief from foot pain with The Good Feet Store arch supports, but others feel that the products don’t justify the price.
- Customer Service. A common theme in The Good Feet Store reviews is the variability in customer service, with some customers feeling well-supported and others reporting negative experiences. This is likely due to the brand's franchise structure.
By examining reviews across multiple platforms, it’s clear that while both brands have satisfied customers, Tread Labs insoles receive more consistent praise for their value, comfort, and overall effectiveness.
Podiatrists’ Opinions
When considering orthotic solutions, the insights of podiatrists can be invaluable. Both Tread Labs and The Good Feet Store are often discussed among foot health professionals, but their opinions on each brand differ.
What do podiatrists say about The Good Feet Store?
- Mixed Reviews. Podiatrists have varying opinions about The Good Feet Store. Some appreciate the in-store fitting process and the immediate availability of arch supports, but many express concerns about the high prices and overall effectiveness.
"A person could buy 6 pairs of shoes and a high quality over the counter insert before even getting close to the cost of the off the shelf inserts from [The Good Feet Store]. Know what you are buying."
⏤ Dr. Benjamin Saviet,
"From my evaluation, Good Feet arch supports provide very little support of the mid-portion of the arch... they are also not particularly effective arch supports for a majority of patients and they cost many times more than arch supports that in my opinion work much better to eliminate the most common types of foot pain."
⏤ Dr. Larry Huppin, Podiatrist at Foot & Ankle Center of Washington
What do podiatrists say about Tread Labs?
-
Professional Endorsements. Tread Labs insoles are often recommended by podiatrists for their high-quality construction, customizable fit, and affordability. The availability of four arch heights provides a more tailored fit that can address a range of foot conditions.
- Alternative to Custom Orthotics. Many podiatrists see Tread Labs as a strong alternative to custom orthotics, particularly for patients who need reliable support but cannot afford the high cost of custom solutions.
“Patient feedback has been positive. In fact, Tread Labs are my go-to for problems that indicate a generic orthotic and have improved gait better than other brands I've used over the last 20 years.” — Christopher O. Cook, DPM/FACFAS at San Juan Foot and Ankle Center
“We've been using Tread Labs for several years after switching from over the counter inserts and using them as an alternative to custom orthotics. You can't beat their million mile warranty and their quality product.” — Sean Joseph, DC/CKTP at Silverdale Wellness Center
Overall, while The Good Feet Store has some supporters, Tread Labs insoles are more frequently recommended by podiatrists, especially for patients seeking a customizable, cost-effective alternative to custom orthotics.
Price & Value Comparison
When comparing Tread Labs insoles to The Good Feet Store, price and value are critical considerations. Here’s how they stack up:Tread Labs Prices
- Affordable Pricing. Tread Labs insoles are priced between $60 and $115 per pair, offering high-quality support without the hefty price tag.
- Single Pair Sufficiency. Unlike The Good Feet Store, Tread Labs insoles require only one pair to provide effective, long-term arch support. There’s no need to manage multiple pairs or remember to switch between different arch heights or firmness levels.
The Good Feet Store Prices
- High Costs. How much are the arch supports at The Good Feet Store? On average, a pair of arch supports from The Good Feet Store costs between $450 and $500. However, customers are advised to buy three pairs or arch supports in order to progress from soft to firm support. Their “Relax,” “Maintain,” and “Strengthen” models are recommended for all customers. This brings the total cost to well over $1,000.
- Lack of Pricing Transparency. One of the most significant issues reported in The Good Feet Store reviews is the lack of upfront pricing. Prices are typically revealed only during in-store consultations, which can lead to pushy sales tactics and a sense of pressure to purchase.
-
Does Medicare cover orthotics from The Good Feet Store?
No. The Good Feet store is not a medical provider and does not accept payment through insurance. Both Tread Labs and The Good Feet Store do however offer reimbursement through FSA/HSA accounts.
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Loved the first pair...
Loved the first pair so much I bought a second pair! I rarely ever do that. I have very high arches, so almost all other arch supports aren't high enough to support my arches. So I always have sore feet and little support. This is the very first time I've had off-the-shelf supports that work! Otherwise, I have to spend about $1k for a pair of custom orthotics at someplace like the 'Good Feet Store'.
— Timothy V., Verified Buyer (Tread Labs Pace Wide Insoles Review)
Cost vs. Value
- Is The Good Feet Store Worth It? The high cost of The Good Feet Store arch supports, combined with the need to buy multiple pairs, raises questions about value. While the personalized fitting experience may appeal to some, many customers find that the overall expense does not justify the benefits, especially when compared to Tread Labs.
- What does The Good Feet Store do for you? They offer in-store consultations to match customers with the right arch support. If selecting the perfect size was rocket science, this would be worth the price tag. Tread Labs makes it incredibly easy to self-select the perfect pair of insoles for effective arch support with the 'What's My Arch Height' guide.
- Durability and Long-Term Value. Both Tread Labs and The Good Feet Store offer lifetime warranties on their molded plastic arch supports, ensuring long-lasting durability. However, replacement top covers for Tread Labs insoles cost $15.00 -$19.50/pair, while The Good Feet Store charges around $40/pair on average, depending on the package selected. This further enhances the value proposition of Tread Labs, making it them more cost-effective solution over time.
Here’s a chart comparing the total cost between Good Feet Arch Supports and Tread Labs Pace Insoles based on 500 miles of use, every six months. This chart assumes an average initial cost of $1350 (3x pairs at ~$450/pair) for the Good Feet customer, plus $40 top cover replacement costs. Pace Insoles cost $75, while replacement top covers cost $17.50. If you use your insoles less frequently or are lighter on your feet, the savings will vary accordingly.
| Initial Purchase | 6 months | 12 months | 18 months | 24 months | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Good Feet Arch Supports |
$1350.00 | $1390.00 | $1430.00 | $1470.00 | $1510.00 |
| Tread Labs Pace | $75.00 | $92.50 | $110.00 | $127.50 | $145.00 |
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Perfect fit
"I use the Pace Wide Insoles in a pair of wide Altra Lone Peak 6 shoes (size 14). The insoles fill the shoes perfectly. No trimming required. My arches are moderately high, so the high and extra high insoles both work. But I've settled on the high insoles for now. I've tried MANY insoles, including much more expensive ones like Good Feet, and these work the best."
— Stan W., Verified Buyer (Tread Labs Pace Wide Insoles Review)
Wrapping Up: Which Arch Supports are Right for You?
When comparing Tread Labs insoles to The Good Feet Store arch supports, key differences emerge in terms of design, functionality, and user experience. Tread Labs offers a modular system with four customizable arch heights, providing a near-custom fit that requires less time and effort. Their insoles are easy to purchase online, with a user-friendly fitting process that can be completed from home. On the other hand, The Good Feet Store offers a more traditional in-store fitting experience and often recommends multiple pairs of arch supports for progressive use. This can be time-consuming and complex to manage.
Ultimately, Tread Labs insoles stand out for their convenience and long-term durability, making them a strong alternative to the more expensive, time-intensive, and multi-step process offered by The Good Feet Store.
Mark Paigen
Mark has always believed exceptional footwear can change lives. He's been in the footwear industry for over 30 years, working with podiatrists, pedorthists, foot care experts, and footwear makers. Mark started Chaco sandals in 1989 and developed a game-changing sport sandal that delivered comfort and durability. After Chaco sold in 2009, Mark ultimately started Tread Labs to continue transforming people's footwear so they can walk better, feel better, live better.
