
Why do I need arch supports? Aren’t they just for people with foot disorders?
No they’re for people with feet! Mass-produced shoes are not much more than fashionable foot covers. They don’t conform to your individual foot shape to support you properly from heel to toe. As a result, people end up with painful foot, leg and back problems caused by uneven pressure and misalignment.
Custom-fitted arch supports distribute pressure evenly across the entire foot and align your skeleton properly from the ground up. You have better balance, more energy and greater comfort with less foot and leg fatigue; and you help prevent many painful foot problems before they begin.
Won’t they make my shoes too tight? Do I have to wear special shoes?
Our arch supports are thin enough to fit into most shoes comfortably. You won’t even know they’re there. Please bring your favorite shoe style(s) with you for your fitting to help make the ideal choice. You would only need special shoes if you have a medical condition that requires them, and we have an excellent selection to choose from.
There are so many arch supports how do I know which one to choose?
Don’t worry; our expert staff is trained to determine exactly what you need for correct alignment, comfort and support. To measure pressure and balance, we use a computerized sensor to read the distribution of pressure on your feet while standing. To evaluate for proper gait, we take an ink impression showing the transfer of weight across your foot as you walk. We then measure and custom fit all 4 of your arches: inner and outer longitudinal, transverse and metatarsal. In addition, we evaluate you based on lifestyle, activity level, shoe style and degree of firmness needed. All these variables combine to tell us which arch support will be just right for you.
How long does it take to get them?
You can walk out with your arch supports the same day you come in to be fitted.
Are they hard to get used to?
Not at all. You can avoid temporary soreness by getting used to them gradually, just like you would with a new exercise program. A good rule of thumb is to wear your arch supports 1 hour the first day and increase by an hour every day. If you notice any discomfort just increase more gradually. Soon you’ll be wearing them every day and wondering how you lived without them!
Are they expensive?
Good arch supports range in price and generally cost about the same as a good pair of shoes. And remember, one pair can be used inside many different pairs of shoes, making all your shoes a custom fit.
What if I like them at first but have problems adjusting after I get home with them? Am I stuck with one more foot product I can’t use?
Never! Please let us know if you have any issues at all. We want you to be completely satisfied and truly have the comfort you need. You can come in for refitting any time within the first 6 months at no charge. Even after 6 months, if you decide to upgrade to a more expensive arch support we will apply the cost of your original set toward the purchase, so you never lose anything you spend at Walk Happy. In the rare instance that you wish to return your arch supports we will gladly give you a full store credit.
How long do they last?
Our arch supports are very durable, with a Lifetime Warranty against breakage or flattening. Since our bodies change, we recommend remeasuring once a year to ensure correct alignment and pressure protection. Yearly renewal is especially important for diabetic patients to protect them against complications from poor circulation, and may be available at no cost.
What about odor? How do I care for them?
The smooth topsole not only protects against friction, it does not absorb moisture or odor-causing bacteria. Simply wipe with a damp cloth and mild cleaning solution. Do not soak.