Why Do My Insoles Make My Shoes Squeak?

Discover the factors that cause squeaky orthotics, including friction, wear and tear, poor fit, and moisture, and learn how to fix these issues.

The squeaking noise in your shoes when walking is often due to friction caused by insoles rubbing against the inside of the shoe. Factors such as wear and tear, poor fit, and moisture can exacerbate the friction that causes shoe squeaking. Understanding these contributing factors can help you pinpoint and effectively solve the squeaking issue. Let's explore these issues in more detail:

• Friction. The primary culprit for squeaky shoes is friction between the insole and the shoe's interior. Insoles made from rigid plastics or synthetic fabrics can increase friction, leading to more squeaking with each step. Ensuring a smooth surface interaction between your insoles and shoes can reduce this friction and the resulting noise.

• Wear and Tear. Over time, both shoes and insoles suffer from wear and tear, altering their original shape and fit. This can create gaps or uneven surfaces, which lead to increased friction and noise.  Avoid this problem with Tread Labs' Million Mile Guarantee and top covers that are easily replaceable.

• Poor Fit. Insoles that aren’t the right size or shape for your shoes can move around, causing friction against the shoe interior. Ensuring a precise fit is crucial to prevent this movement and subsequent noise.

• Moisture. Sweat or external wetness can make the interior of your shoes damp. This moisture increases the likelihood of friction between the shoe and insole, which often leads to squeaking sounds.

A dryer sheet is a simple and effective solution that can quickly eliminate the annoying sounds caused by squeaky insoles.  Placing a dryer sheet under each insole will reduce friction, one of the main causes of squeaking. In this section, we'll share additional tips for stopping squeaky noises by managing wear and tear, ensuring an optimal fit, and reducing moisture. Implementing these solutions can quickly silence the squeak and improve your overall shoe comfort.

• Use a Dryer Sheet. Slip a dryer sheet under the insole. This can effectively reduce the friction that causes squeaking, providing a quick and easy fix.  For Tread Labs insoles, place a dryer sheet between the molded arch support and the foam top cover.

•  Reduce Wear and Tear. Invest in high-quality, durable insoles from the start and take good care of them. Quality insoles resist wear and tear better, reducing the likelihood of squeaking.
  
  Proper maintenance, such as regular cleaning and drying, can extend their lifespan and maintain their effectiveness.  Check out our 'How to Clean Shoe Insoles: Essential Care Guide' for more guidance.

• Ensure Proper Fit. Properly sized insoles that fit snugly are less likely to squeak. Make sure your insoles match the size and shape of your shoes. If your current insoles are moving inside your shoe check out, 'How Do You Keep Your Insoles from Sliding in Your Shoes?' for tips and tricks.
  
  Tread Labs insoles are available in a range of sizes that match specific shoe sizes and are designed to fit snugly in most shoes directly out of the box. Tread Labs insoles can be trimmed to fit when necessary.

• Keep Insoles Dry. Moisture is a common cause of squeaking. Use insoles like Tread Labs with 100% recycled polyester top covers that wick away moisture effectively. Choose materials that dry quickly to keep insoles fresh and reduce the risk of squeaking. Regularly air out insoles and shoes, and consider using moisture-absorbing products if necessary. Keeping insoles dry helps prevent squeaking and extends their usability and comfort.

• Talcum Powder. A sprinkle of talcum powder under insole and inside the shoe can help absorb excess moisture and reduce friction, solving two of the common issues that lead to squeaky insoles.

• Replace Worn Out Insoles. Insoles lose their shape and effectiveness over time, leading to issues like squeaking. Regularly inspect your insoles for signs of wear and tear. Replacing old, worn-out insoles can resolve squeaking noises and ensures better foot support and comfort.
  
  Read 'How Frequently Should Orthotic Insoles Be Changed?' for more details. Upgrading to high-quality insoles will enhance the longevity and performance of your footwear, making this a worthwhile investment for both comfort and noise reduction.

Ending shoe squeaks is easier than you might think. First, identify the cause, whether it's friction, a poor fit, wear and tear, or moisture. Ensuring that your insoles fit properly, are dry, and are in good condition will help prevent squeaky orthotics. Easy-to-implement solutions like dryer sheets or talcum powder are great for quickly addressing squeaks caused by friction.

Maintaining your footwear is also key. Regular checks and proper care can prevent future squeaks. Opting for the right insoles, such as Tread Labs, improves comfort and reduces noise, enhancing your walking experience.