Cushiony, but made my feet slide forward in my shoes
I purchased these for walking around Disneyworld to prevent plantar fasciitis. I have had this condition on separate occasions in both feet, and the last time, despite cortisone injections, wrapping, and TENS therapy, it lasted two years. Before my trip, I purchased new Brooks running shoes which help prevent over-pronation, and in addition, I got these gel inserts for additional cushioning. When I first put these cushions on, they slipped on easily due to a powdery film they were coated in. The smell was not unpleasant, kind of lemony. I was able to fit my socks over them with no problem by carefully rolling the socks on so as not to shift the cushion. Walking around the first hour, it felt like I had a springy cushion under my heels, and I was hopeful that I would be able to walk an entire day without pain. However, after that first hour I began to feel my feet sliding forward a bit at every step, and my toes were uncomfortably pushing against the front of my shoes. The more I walked, the worse it got. I ended up taking the cushions off. I believe my shoes just didn't have enough room for any extra cushions as they fit my feet exactly, with no extra space at all. I could have removed the insole, but then I would lose the firm support that they provided, which is necessary to prevent feet from rolling inward. I was disappointed, during the short time I wore the cushions, they did feel nice. Maybe they would work in a different pair of shoes.
Rating: 3 stars