I was a bit surprised at how stiff the arch is on this insole.  I tried it right away in my shoes and was surprised again, but this time my surprise was that the arch felt pretty good.  I do wish the cushioning on top was thicker and softer over the entire length of the insole since that was my reason for purchasing these in the first place.  I have found it really difficult to find an insole that provides both arch and general support plus a good amount of cushioning.  As I've aged, I find that my feet get bonier and bonier with virtually no cushioning under my heel and metatarsal area.  This now causes my feet to get sore like never before.  It's irritating and as of now I've not found a solution in an insole that eliminates the pain and soreness I get after being on my feet for several hours.  I decided that I'll just wear these insoles and 'customize'  them that way rather than heating them up in the oven. Maybe once they've molded to my feet they will feel a little better.  But still, guess I'll just keep looking.