Explore ball-of-foot pads, metatarsal supports, gel cushions and forefoot inserts to help cushion sensitive areas and reduce pressure or rubbing inside footwear.
Our podiatrist-selected range includes options for targeted support and broader forefoot cushioning. Choose according to where you need comfort, the space available in your shoes and the individual product’s fitting instructions.
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21 products
Choosing Ball-of-Foot Pads and Forefoot Cushions
The ball of the foot takes pressure during walking, standing and everyday activity. The right cushioning or support depends on where you feel discomfort and how much room your footwear provides.
Some products cushion directly beneath the forefoot, while others sit behind the ball of the foot to help redistribute pressure. These designs serve different purposes, so placement matters.
Metatarsal pads and domes provide targeted support. They are generally positioned just behind the metatarsal heads—the area commonly called the ball of the foot—rather than directly beneath the painful spot.
They do not need to cover the entire width of your foot. Follow the product’s fitting instructions or your podiatrist’s guidance to find the appropriate position.
Gel cushions provide padding beneath the ball of the foot. Depending on the design, they may sit inside the shoe or be worn over the forefoot.
These can be useful when you want broader cushioning rather than a small, raised metatarsal support. Check the dimensions and allow enough room in your footwear to avoid a tight fit.
Some insoles combine forefoot cushioning or metatarsal support with support elsewhere in the foot. They may suit people looking for a more complete insert rather than a separate pad.
Check whether the insert is full length or three-quarter length, and whether your existing shoe insole needs to be removed.
Before choosing a product, consider:
Coverage: Do you want targeted support or cushioning across a wider area?
Shoe space: Will the product fit without making your footwear tight?
Attachment: Is it self-adhesive, loose-fitting or worn on the foot?
Dimensions: Compare the measurements with the inside of your shoe.
Placement: Follow the fitting directions, as different designs sit in different positions.
Try the fit before securing an adhesive product. A pad should feel comfortable and should not increase pressure, numbness or rubbing.
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