“Most shoes and insoles are designed to support the arch on the inside of the foot, but not the transverse arch, which runs side-to-side over the foot. Metatarsal pads and ball of foot cushions help do that. Additionally, if you wear high heels, they can significantly reduce the pressure on the ball of your foot,” says Dr. Dave Candy, a board-certified specialist in orthopedic physical therapy. Your search for a solution to your foot pain ends here. Check this list of the 12 best ball of foot cushions available on the market.

12 Best Ball Of Foot Cushions Of 2022

1. Best For All-Day Comfort: Walkize Metatarsal Pads

If you have a hard time walking with high heels, these metatarsal pads by Walkize can help. They alleviate pain by relieving the pressure from your feet. The pads are made of polyurethane, PU gel, and cloth. These ball of foot cushions also correct the fitting of your shoes. The adhesive on these pads stays in place all day, without ruining your favourite pair of heels. It also enables the correct alignment of your toes and metatarsals. The brand offers 100% refund in case you are not satisfied with the product. Pros

Super soft Non-slip Comfortable to wear Durable Value for money

Cons None

2. Best For Dancers: Zentoes Metatarsal Gel Pads

These ball of foot cushions fit women’s sizes 8 to 11 and offer premium support, comfort, and reliability across the entire forefoot. Unlike shoe insoles, these cushions are designed to be worn over your feet for a snug fit and optimal protection. They help alleviate pain due to corns, calluses, bunions, and neuromas caused by long periods of running, standing, and dancing. The gel and fabric cushions balance your forefeet and soothe any discomfort. They can be hand washed with a gentle soap and used several times. Pros

Soft High quality material Comfortable to wear Washable Reusable Pack of 2 pairs

Cons None

3. Best Gel Cushions: Dr. Frederick’s Original Forefoot Cushion Set

Each step you take concentrates your entire weight on your foot, often causing excruciating pain. These gel cushions by Dr Frederick spread the pressure evenly and ease your pain instantly. They are made with gel material for ample cushioning and have a unique loop design that perfectly fits on your toes to prevent slipping or sliding. The non-slip bridges keep them in place, while the large design offers full foot coverage. Pros

Washable Biodegradable Non-slip Provides full coverage Reusable Easy to wear Comfortable Durable

Cons None

4. Best Cushions For High Heels: Dr. Scholl’s Ball Of Foot Cushions

This pair of ball of foot cushions by Dr. Scholl’s is specifically designed for high heels. The soft gel material of these pads absorbs shock and provides good cushioning, preventing any foot pain and offering maximum comfort. The cushions stay firmly in place and help prevent the toes from scrunching or the feet from sliding forward. They are ultra-thin and fit into the tightest of high heels with ease. Check out this video to know how much relief can you get using this cushion. Pros

Comfortable to wear Super soft Suitable for open-style heels Affordable

Cons

Adhesive dries out fast

5. Best Durable Choice: GUYUEHU Metatarsal Pads

The GUYUEHU Metatarsal Pads are made of soft and high-quality silicone that instantly contours the shape of your footwear and keeps your feet comfortable. They protect and support your foot to prevent pain, blisters, calluses, and chuffing. These washable and reusable ball of foot cushions fit any shoe type and keep your feet cushioned for the whole day. Pros

Premium quality material Soft Comfortable to wear Washable Reusable Anti-slip

Cons None

6. Best For Pain Relief: Ballotte Ball Of Foot Cushions For High Heels

The Ballotte foot cushions are an excellent solution to reduce pain caused due to wearing high heels. They are super soft, comfortable, and made with medical grade PU gel. These offer a natural support to your feet while providing a gentle massage during standing, walking, or dancing. The transparent inserts are made to be well fitted and the ultraslim design does not take up too much space, providing a snug fit. These cushions are reusable and washable with water. Pros

Stick well Washable Ultra-thin Non-slip Super soft Reusable Easy to wear Comfortable Durable Pack of 4

Cons None

7. Best Fabric Cushions: Brison Metatarsal Pads

These metatarsal pads by Brison are developed by professional podiatrists to reduce calluses, blisters, and bunions and prevent chronic foot conditions. These elastic ball of foot cushions are made of SEBS, silk, and spandex and are perfect for everyday use. They are suitable for foot sizes 8.5 to 11 for women and 7 to 10 for men. The soft textile sleeves provide premium comfort and pain relief with or without socks. The durable sleeves with cushion pads provide excellent impact compensation for your forefoot while running, walking, or standing. They are also reusable, flexible, and easy to wear. Pros

Dry quickly Washable Breathable Stretchable Durable Available in various sizes

Cons None

8. Best Non-Slip Cushions: Mildsun Ball Of Foot Cushions

These metatarsal pads by Mildsun are soft and have an elastic convex design, which provides a comfortable fit with any footwear. They are made with high-quality gel that makes them flexible and durable. These non-slip pads stick effortlessly to your feet while providing adequate cushioning and absorbing any shocks. Pros

High shock absorption One size fits all Good for any shoe type High-quality material Durable Non-slip Comfortable to wear

Cons None

9. Best Design: Foot Petals Ball-Of-Foot Cushions

As the name states, these tip toe cushions by Foot Petals have a unique flower-shaped design. The springy foam material provides superior shock absorption. These ball of foot cushions are breathable, lightweight, and bounce back naturally, offering you ultimate comfort. They are also super thin and discreet enough to be worn with a strappy pair of sandals. They stay in place for long hours and prevent your feet from slipping or sliding. The pack includes three sets in three different colors: silver gray, black, and golden. Pros

Breathable Lightweight Non-slip Soft Super thin Comfortable to wear

Cons None

10. Best Moisture-Wicking: Zucnana Ball Of Foot Cushions

The Zucnana Ball Of Foot Cushions feature a comfortable little ridge, provide maximum comfort to your feet, and prevent your feet from sliding forward. These super soft gel pads effectively relieve pain by reducing the pressure on your toes. They are made with soft, medical grade silicone that is flexible and highly durable. The outer layer of these cushions are moisture-wicking and breathable. They do not stick on your skin or leave an unpleasant smell. In case you are not satisfied with the product, the brand offers 100% refund. Pros

Non-slip Anti-blister Moisture-wicking Breathable Durable Comfortable to wear Super soft

Cons None

11. TemiArt Metatarsal Pads

Unlike a shoe insole, these cushions by TemiArt are designed to be worn over your feet for a snug fit and optimal protection. They alleviate pain due to corns, calluses, bunions, and neuromas, which are caused by long periods of running, standing, and dancing. The durable gel cushions balance your forefeet and soothe any discomfort. They come with an extra strong adhesive and do not slip or slide easily. Pros

Flexible Non-slip Reusable Durable Comfortable Pack of 4 pairs

Cons None

12. Heelho Ball Of Foot Pads

This pair of foot pads by Heelho is specifically designed to take the load of the metatarsals and the balls of your feet. The patented metatarsal pain-relieving technology redistributes the pressure and spreads it evenly across your feet to provide pain-free and comfortable wear. The high-performance Poron open cell materialis moisture-wicking and odorless. The glue tabs present on these cushions allow you to adjust them into place while giving you a snug fit. Pros

Super soft Comfortable to wear Perfect fit Good coverage

Cons None Ball of foot cushions come in extremely handy to relieve different kinds of aches and discomfort. Find out some of their benefits in the section below.

What Are The Benefits Of Ball Of Foot Cushions?

Restore optimal foot pad positioning. Address and prevent common foot problems like plantar fasciitis, capsulitis, and Morton’s neuroma. Promote the return of overextended toes to their natural anatomical positions. Help separate or spread apart your metatarsal heads, creating more space for your blood vessels to pass. Reduce pain and enhance your foot’s support. Prevent your feet from sliding forward.

Now that you know of the multiple benefits of these cushions, read the next section to find out how to use them for maximum benefits.

How To Use Ball Of Foot Cushions

Step 1: Remove the liner or insole from the shoe. You can skip this part if your shoe does not have a liner. Step 2: Feel the impression of where your ball of foot falls inside your shoe. Step 3: Peel one fourth of the adhesive on the cushion and place it on the shoe liner. Step 4: Test if the pad is perfectly on the area behind the ball of your foot. If not, gently move it to position. Step 5: Once you have found the perfect placement, remove the adhesive of the cushion completely and stick it well. Repeat the process on the other shoe. Here are a few pointers to help you pick the best ball of foot cushions for your feet.

How To Choose The Best Ball Of Foot Cushions

Material

Ball of foot cushions are made of various materials, ranging from felt to gel, and each has its set of benefits.

Leather And Latex: Latex and leather are the most common materials used to design the outside and inside of these cushions. Sometimes, latex is used to reinforce the leather, resulting in a heavier and more durable build. Wool And Felt: Wool and felt have a less resilient flex to them. This makes them feel firmer. Open Cell Polyurethane Foam: Polyurethane foam is the most used filler material in foot cushions. This is mostly due to the comfort and adequate cushioning that it provides. It is also durable and stays soft for a long period. Gel: Gel ensures a comfortable wear and a softer surface while dissipating force. It also possesses antimicrobial properties, preventing infection and odors.

Application

Ball of foot cushions utilize a variety of methods to keep them on the user’s feet. These designs can range from adhesive to Velcro and have their own advantages as well as disadvantages. The cushions that are stuck to the bottom of your feet are quick and easy to use. They usually come in a pack of 10 to 20. But there are problems like bad odor that are likely to occur. There are also chances of these cushions falling off the user’s feet. On the other hand, the cushions that can be placed inside the shoes provide a more customized experience. This type of adhesive is preferred as it can last longer and is less likely to cause any skin irritation.

Breathability

The breathability of ball of foot cushions is an important feature as it keeps your feet ventilated and comfortable. If you choose cushions made of a lesser breathable material, it will be uncomfortable for your feet, especially during hot and sweaty conditions.

Support

Most of these cushions are made to provide shock absorption and can also offer good support. This is crucial for those who are dealing with bunions or plantar fasciitis. This is why it is ideal to choose a full insole instead of a metatarsal pad if you require arch support.

Why Trust Stylecraze

Aditi Naskar is a major in English literature and holds a diploma in health and wellness. She has studied and analyzed the features and feedback from existing customers before compiling this list on the best ball of foot cushion. This product helps in providing you with the much-needed support and padding if you are wearing heels or if you have blisters on your foot. This article can help you narrow down the best option available as it is well-researched and explains every product in detail. What are the best inserts for ball of foot pain? The Walkize Metatarsal Pads, the Zentoes Metatarsal Gel Pads, and the Dr. Frederick’s Original Forefoot Cushion Set are some of the best inserts for ball of foot pain. They reduce the pressure on your foot and keep you comfortable all day. When should I see a doctor for ball of foot pain? If the pain is moderate to severe and it gets unbearable to take a few steps, it is time to see a doctor. What makes the ball of your foot hurt? Excessive pressure on the ball of your foot due to long hours of standing, ill-fitted shoes, and bodyweight issues can cause inflammation and swelling. This makes the ball of your foot hurt. Can I throw the ball of foot cushions in the laundry? Yes, most brands offer a separate bag in which you can put your insoles and put them in the washing machine. How do I prevent my cushions from smelling? Wash them with a mild detergent to prevent your cushions from smelling. Can I run with ball of foot cushions on? It is advisable to not run if you have pain in the balls of your feet. However, a cushion can decrease your pain if you do so.

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