Product Review: Antifatigue Footwear Insoles

A Solution for Standing Workers

We all know that antifatigue mats make a world of difference for workers who spend their entire shift standing in front of their workstation.  However, what happens when workers don’t stand in one place?  It’s not possible to antifatigue mat the entire floor surface.  One solution is offered by Johnson Technologies Corporation.  They make antifatigue footwear insoles.  Think of this as antifatigue matting inside your shoes.  In many ways this is better than antifatigue mats because the “matting” is right under your foot and it goes wherever you go.

I am testing and wearing for the first time their Ergo Comfort Plus Insoles.  My test environment is my sit-stand computer workstation in my office which has a wooden floor.  I typically stand 90% of my time so I know how my feet, knees and back feel when wearing my normal footwear (when at my desk I wear Saucony jogging shoes).  I’ve only worn these for three days now but I can feel an immediate difference.  My feet and knees don’t feel nearly as tired.  The “test” is still very early on but early results are promising.  How long the insoles will last remains to be seen.  I talked with the company president, Robert Johnson, and he said on average the insoles should last around 1 year.  The insoles come in different shoe sizes.  They should work in footwear that already has some type of an insole.  Obviously, high heels would not work.

These insoles provide an easy solution for workers who are on their feet the majority of their work shift.  Employees may want to consider alerting their employees of these insoles or even offering them in addition to or in place of antifatigue matting.  The good thing about insoles is that compared to mats there is no tripping hazard and it’s always at the point of use.

In a few months I’ll do an update on the “test”.

Kelby Ergo Design does not endorse any of the products or companies featured in the review. All images are property of the vendor and used for illustrative reference only