Tread Labs Pace Insoles vs. Aetrex Compete Orthotics
This blog compares the Tread Labs Pace Insoles and Aetrex Compete Orthotics, focusing on their design, arch support, cushioning, durability, fit, and overall value. It aims to help you decide which insole best meets your needs for enhanced foot comfort and support.
The Basics: TL;DR ---
- Arch Support. Pace offers firm, extended support; Aetrex focuses on rear arch support and uses foam that does not provide firm support.
- Fit and Sizing. Both offer gender-specific sizing; Pace comes in four arch heights for a personalized fit.
- Cushioning. Pace has a deeper heel cup for better alignment; Both models use polyurethane foam for resilient cushioning.
- Durability. Pace’s molded plastic arch support has a lifetime guarantee; Aetrex recommends replacements every 6-9 months.
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Value. Similar prices, but Pace’s replaceable top covers and durability offer better long-term value.
Need To Know ---
The Tread Labs Pace Insoles and Aetrex Compete Orthotics both use high-quality materials, including durable polyurethane foam and antimicrobial treatments. Pace insoles offer long-lasting support with a molded plastic arch support and feature a deeper heel cup for better alignment. The Pace insoles come in four arch heights for a personalized fit. They feature a lifetime guarantee on the arch support and replaceable top covers, providing superior long-term value. Aetrex orthotics, provide enhanced arch support along with durable cushioning, but they will require more frequent replacement.
Table of Contents
- Comparison Chart
- Should I Buy Aetrex Compete or Tread Labs Pace?
- Final Verdict: Aetrex Compete vs. Tread Labs Pace
What are the differences between Aetrex Compete Orthotics and Tread Labs Pace Insoles?
This chart provides a direct comparison between Aetrex Compete Orthotics and Tread Labs Pace Insoles, using data from both companies’ websites and our firsthand evaluations. It is designed to offer a clear, side-by-side analysis of these two insole models, highlighting their key features and differences. Learn how the terms 'orthotics' and 'insoles' are interchangeable in this article.
| Aetrex Compete Orthotics | Tread Labs Pace Insoles | |
|---|---|---|
| Company History |
Founded in 1946, Aetrex has evolved into a leading global brand in comfort and wellness footwear. The company is renowned for merging advanced technology with stylish designs, focusing on providing superior arch support to enhance foot health. Their products include orthotic solutions and memory foam footbeds, making Aetrex a preferred choice for individuals seeking cushioned comfort and style in their footwear. |
In 2015, Mark Paigen, the founder of Chaco sandals, established Tread Labs. Drawing on his 30 years of experience and the biomechanical expertise that made Chaco successful, Paigen aimed to create exceptionally comfortable footwear. His mission was to apply his extensive knowledge to develop sandals known for their outstanding comfort and support. |
|
Product Description (from websites) |
"Designed specifically for comfort, support and weight redistribution in athletic, walking and comfort footwear. These tri-density orthotics feature a Copper Guard top cover and a layer of Pro-Shox® for superior cushioning and shock absorption. Copper Guard's high-tech polyester fibers wick moisture away from the foot and provide a cool, friction free surface to prevent blisters and other foot problems." |
"Extra firm medical-grade support without compromising comfort. If you’re suffering from plantar fasciitis, are a severe overpronator or you’re especially heavy on your feet, Pace insoles are your pick. Podiatrist-recommended extra firm support combined with precision fit arch support and a deep heel cup decrease impact, improve stability and balance, and reduce pain with every step. 5mm-thick top covers make Pace insoles ideal for running shoes, work or hiking boots, and other footwear with full-length removable inserts." |
| Arch Support/Shape |
The arch support in these insoles is made from polyurethane foam that does not provide the same level of firm support as the Pace insoles. It is short in length and positioned closer to the rear part of the arch. |
The arch support in these insoles is crafted from molded plastic and extends further forward, providing firm, comprehensive support for the entire arch area. |
| Fit/Sizing | US Gender-Specific Sizing. Available in whole sizes: Men's 6-16 and Women's 4-13. |
US Gender-Specific Sizing. Available in whole sizes: |
| Cushioning | Dual density polyurethane foam with a third top cover layer gives them ample cushioning. They are 5.5mm thick. | The open-cell polyurethane foam used in these insoles offers resilient cushioning. A 5mm thickness provides similar cushioning to the Aetrex insoles. |
| Durability | Polyurethane is a durable foam that will last longer than other options on the market. The lack of of a rigid plastic arch support, however, will likely cause Aetrex orthotics to lose their shape over time as the foam compresses. This is likely why Aetrex recommends replacing their orthotics every 6-9 months. | Tread Labs employs a two-part system featuring molded arch supports with a lifetime warranty. This system includes replaceable foam top covers, which are economical and easy to swap when needed. Tread Labs suggests that these top covers have a lifespan of 6 to 12 months, providing a cost-effective approach to insole upkeep. |
| Company Fit Guarantee | Aetrex offers a 30-Day trial period with free return shipping | Tread Labs offers a 90-Day satisfaction guarantee with free return shipping. |
| Odor Control |
CopperGuard® Antimicrobial Lining |
PURE™ Silver Ion Treatment (long-lasting and will not wash out). |
| Price |
$69.96 |
$75.00 |
| Shipping Costs (when ordered from company website) | US Ground (7-14 days) = Free | USPS First Class Shipping (4-5 Days) = Free |
| URL | Aetrex Compete Orthotics | Pace Insoles |
Should I Buy Aetrex Compete Orthotics or Tread Labs Pace Insoles?
Finding the right orthotic insoles can significantly enhance comfort and support. In this next section, we will compare key aspects of the two leading options: the Tread Labs Pace Insoles and the Aetrex Compete Orthotics.
Each of these insoles have unique features that set them apart. We will examine their design, comfort, durability, and overall value to help you decide which insole best fits your needs. Whether you prioritize firm support or cushioning, this guide will help you make an informed choice.
Arch Support
Aetrex Compete Orthotics and Tread Labs Pace Insoles are both designed to provide arch support and alleviate plantar fasciitis pain. There are key differences in their arch support however. The Compete arch support is softer and lacks the firm support provided by the Pace. The Compete arch support is also shorter in length and positioned more towards the rear of the foot’s arch. In comparison, the firm arch support on Tread Labs insoles extends further forward, providing consistent support along the entire arch curve.
Both brands use polyurethane for cushioning, but Aetrex also uses polyurethane foam for the arch support. This creates an arch support that looks substantial but may actually collapse under pressure. The all-foam arch support on Aetrex orthotics will not provide the firm arch support that is essential for correcting overpronation in the long-run. The molded plastic arch support in the Tread Labs insoles provides firm support that will not compress over time.
Tread Labs Pace Insoles also stand out by offering four different arch heights for a personalized fit, whereas Aetrex Compete Orthotics come in a single standard arch height. Purchasing insoles with an arch height that matches the natural curve of your foot is essential for foot health. Visit, "What's My Arch Height?" to learn more.
Arch Support: Aetrex Compete vs. Tread Labs Pace
- The all-foam arch support on Aetrex Compete orthotics appears high, but does not provide long-lasting, firm support.
- The two-part system on Pace insoles utilizes molded plastic to ensure consistent, firm support which extends further forward along the foot's entire arch.
Fit & Sizing
Both the Aetrex Compete Orthotics and Tread Labs Pace Insoles offer US gender-specific sizing. The Aetrex orthotics are available in whole sizes, with Men’s sizes ranging from 6 to 16 and Women’s from 4 to 13.
The Tread Labs Pace Insoles come in Men’s sizes 4 to 14.5 and Women’s sizes 5 to 12.5. Additionally, Tread Labs Pace Insoles offer each size in four different arch heights, ensuring a personalized fit that contours your arch, providing superior comfort and support.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Better than custom inserts
"Got these for my daughter who has chronic foot pain and has been wearing custom orthotics inserts for a few years. She likes these better so they live in her shoes while the $400 pair collect dust."
— Jewon W., Verified Buyer (Pace Insoles Review)
Cushioning
Aetrex Compete Orthotics use polyurethane foam that provides firm cushioning and decent shock absorption. The Pace Insoles by Tread Labs feature a similar polyurethane foam top sheet over a molded plastic arch support, ensuring consistent cushioning without the risk of the arch support compressing.
A key difference is in the heel cup design. The Pace Insoles have a deeper, more sculpted heel cup. A deep, sculpted heel cup properly aligns the heel's natural fatty tissue and enhances shock absorption. While the Compete Orthotics do have a cupped heel, it does not provide the same level of shock absorption.
The sculpted heel cups on the Pace insoles
Durability
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Top Quality. Great Value.
“Amazing inserts. Who knew you could improve “On Cloud” shoes. These inserts are high quality and great value. Tried two different arch heights and returns were a breeze. Now I’m going to order for my other shoes too!!”
— Michael K., Verified Buyer (Pace Insoles Review)
Value
When it comes to value, both the Aetrex Compete Orthotics and Tread Labs Pace Insoles are similarly priced, at $69.95 and $75 respectively. Both brands offer free shipping and free returns with reasonable trial periods, ensuring you can test their suitability over time.
The Tread Labs Pace Insoles provide better durability, resulting in less frequent replacements. Their innovative two-part system allows for easy replacement of just the top cover, further increasing long-term value. The Aetrex Compete Orthotics offer decent initial value, but may require more frequent replacements.
Here’s a comparison chart based on using the insoles for 500 miles every six months. With Aetrex, you’ll need new insoles when they wear out. With Tread Labs, you only replace the top cover, as the arch support base is designed to last forever. 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 | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Aetrex Compete |
$69.95 | $139.90 | $209.85 | $279.80 | $349.75 |
| Tread Labs Pace | $75.00 | $92.50 | $110.00 | $127.50 | $145.00 |
Final Verdict: Aetrex Compete vs. Tread Labs Pace
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.