For those that my have "flat Feet", inline skates can create a real
pain in the foot (feet). I'm considering trying a foam type of insert
to get some relief. It has been suggested that people with "flat
feet" need more arch support that inline skates aren't set up to
provide. If anyone has had the experience of pain associated with
"flat feet" and blading and has found a solution PLEASE POST IT.
Get orthotics!
You can go to a MD to get "prescription" guys. Specialty sporting goods stores
(mostly ski shops) sell them, too. I got mine from Doc's in Boulder, Active
Imprints is also a very good shop here.
The companies that manufacture the orthotics train the stores on
molding/shaping/assembling the orthotics -- make sure you get someone who both
has gotten that training and has lots of experience making them! Good shops
usually have one person who does all this work. I haven't recommended
particular brands; I believe that the fitter is much more important than the
particular brand (and, right now, I don't recall my brand).
Take your skates in when you get fitted. Make certain that the fitter knows
that you expect the orthotic to fit perfectly in the boot. Trimming down the
orthotic for that fit is where a lot of the artistry comes into the
manufacture. Your orthotic will probably be useful in a variety of
shoes/boots/ski boots/etc., but you should be very certain that it works just
right for your most important activity.
Talk with the fitter before buying. Tell him about your expectations and make
certain that there's a good chance that the orthotic will meet them. After
they're made, try 'em out. Be certain that they do what you want. A good shop
will make minor adjustments on the product weeks or months after you buy it.
Ask around for good shops in your area.
Finally, orthotics are not only for people who have some obvious biomechanical
problem; they are great for anyone who's on their skates a lot. I've had
several 10-hour days this past month; I probalby wouldn't have made it without
my orthotics.
--phil