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Cost is one factor, but fit is the overriding concern.
Consider that the foot consists of 26 bones and 109 ligaments and that the multitude of foot shapes, contours and curves as well as an individual's body support needs and requirements vary widely. The best a manufacturers can hope for with an insole is to ensure that their boot feels comfortable out of the box and offers a universal fit, within certain parameters. That is where the custom footbed comes in. A good footbed that is fit to meet the needs of the user serves to customize the fit of the boot, give it a more personal feel and puts the foot in the right places inside the boot and keeps it there. An average day of walking brings a force equal to several tons to bear on the feet.