Hi,

I have worn orthotics for several years now, they are the dense inflexible type. I wear them in my day to day shoes, sneakers etc. I play soccer and they do not fit in the boots. I have been able to get by fine with a foam heel insert, however now I am experiencing very tight calves, ankes and feet after playing/training. I have virtually no longitudinal arch and pronate. It has been suggested to me that I get plastic molded orthotics, the ones that are made from you walking over a sensory plate. They may be a better fit for my boots and also maybe less hard on my feet day to day. However I wanted to know if anyone out there had any experiences/opinions on them or other types of orthotics. I am not a runner per say, but would like to do some to improve my fitness for soccer.

My other option is to try some slim fit insoles from athletes foot in my boots and see if they make a difference.

Lastly my current orthotics have the tendency to stretch my shoes over time, has anyone else experienced this with hard or flexible orthotics.

I have two types of orthotics. One flexible type for my running shoes, I stood on a plate for those and a hard set for my cycle shoes which were made from a cast. My pod chose each type specifically for their intended uses. I don't wear them in my day to day shoes, just for sport.

My husband though has one type of orthotics (hard) for all of his shoes, runners, work shoes etc.

I'd be talking about it with your pod and taking their advice.

I have two types of orthotics as well. One hard rigid type for walking in and a pair of light flexible heat molded ones for doing long runs in. I don't use orthotics at all for track workouts & racing.
The rigid ones, I could not possibly run in. But they are very comfortable walking.
I would see a podiatrist for a proper assessment and tell him/her what you want the orthotics for (sport).
The faster I run, the less correction I need. But I am at my worst standing still or walking. Some people need more correction for faster running and less for walking.
It all depends on your biomechanics.
Of course if you are short on cash , you could try something like an orthoheel over the counter orthotic first to seee if they help (about 40$).