Footgel Barefoot insoles
Description
Footgel Barefoot is a high-cushioning insole designed for barefoot footwear. It respects the natural gait pattern and helps reduce strain and overload on the feet, knees and lower back.
Benefits
- Respects the natural gait: it has no rigid elements or correctors that force the foot's position or alter the gait.
- Protection during the transition to minimalism: it reduces impact and strain on feet, knees and lower back, helping to keep discomfort at bay.
- Respects the natural space for the toes: its wide front area fits the toe box of barefoot footwear without compressing the toes.
- Termocrep-Gel® 3R cushioning: the barefoot insole absorbs the impact of each step to protect feet and joints.
- EU Class I medical device · CE marked: it supports comfort and protection for the foot during everyday use.
- Hypoallergenic and antibacterial: it prevents the growth of bacteria and helps keep the inside of the footwear more hygienic.
- Long-lasting eucalyptus scent: the gel contains aromatic eucalyptus essence to combat unpleasant odours.
Available sizes
| UK men’s | UK women’s | EU size (reference) | Approx. insole length |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2–6.5 | 2.5–7 | EU 35–40 | 22.8–26.0 cm (9.0–10.2 in) |
| 7.5–12 | 8–12.5 | EU 41–46 | 27.2–30.8 cm (10.7–12.1 in) |
UK sizes are approximate and vary by brand, so the European size is the one Footgel manufactures to. Footgel insoles run slightly large, so if you are between two ranges choose the smaller one, and trim the insole to fit your footwear.
Scientific evidence
Footgel Barefoot insoles are designed to provide cushioning while preserving the freedom and ground feel of barefoot shoes. Studies on the transition to minimalist footwear show that switching too quickly can increase stress on the foot, while cushioning materials can reduce peak pressures without the need for rigid structures.
Too fast a transition increases stress on the foot
In a study with 36 experienced runners, those who made a 10-week transition to minimalist footwear more frequently showed increases in bone marrow oedema detected by MRI: 10 out of 19 runners, compared with the group that continued in traditional shoes. The researchers recommended making the transition slowly and progressively.
Ridge et al. (2013) · View study
Cushioning can reduce pressure without rigid structures
A systematic review of studies with flat insole materials found that different cushioning materials can reduce peak plantar pressures while walking. The studies assessed the effect of the materials themselves, without necessarily relying on rigid arch structures.
Gerrard et al. (2020) · View study
Footgel technology
We make our insoles with a three-layer technology:
Technical microfibre + high-density foam + Termocrep-Gel® 3R
A world-unique formula tested by independent laboratories.
Biomechanical studies support its performance in helping to relieve pain in feet and joints:
- x2 More energy return. Returns energy to every step to help reduce muscle fatigue.
- x3 More cushioning. Absorbs impact to help protect your feet and joints.
- x4 Better pressure distribution. Spreads pressure evenly across the sole of your foot.
Breathability
Materials & care
What are they made of?
- Technical microfibre: the layer in contact with your foot. Soft, breathable, antibacterial and environmentally friendly.
- High-density foam: an ultra-breathable material that allows constant airflow to remove moisture and keep your feet fresh and dry.
- Termocrep-Gel® 3R: exclusive medical-grade gel technology. Designed to absorb impact and relieve pain in feet and joints.
- Natural scents: the gel is infused with aromatic essences of orange blossom, aloe vera or eucalyptus to keep your footwear smelling fresh.
How to care for your Footgel Barefoot?
Our Barefoot insoles can be machine washed at a maximum of 30 °C on a gentle cycle.
Important for drying. Always let the insoles air-dry. Do not use a dryer or place them on radiators or other direct heat sources, as excess heat can affect the structure and properties of the gel.