Formthotics have been designed and manufactured by Foot Science International in New Zealand for over 30 years. Since the mid 1980's they have been widely used by medical professionals and sports therapists the world over. Backed by independent testing and research, Formthotics have proven effectiveness in reducing pain, treating and preventing injuries and improving user comfort.
Originally employed by the New Zealand Ski Team, Formthotics' use in sports has grown and diversified and now encompasses cycling among many others. Although there are many orthotics available on the market today, Formthotics remain unique in their materials use and construction processes to offer a genuinely different product with tangible benefits to the user. Cycling is a repetitive sport and the use of high quality, cycling specific orthotics can reduce the risk of injury and help eliminate pain while simultaneously improving stability and power development throughout the pedal stroke.
The cycling specific orthotic features a design that specifically compliments the technical features of cycling shoes, with the new single density firm insole best suited to both cycling performance and injury prevention as well as the broad range of cycling shoe options available. Indeed, the Cycle Single Firmwere over a year in research and development involving consultation with cycle specialists, podiatrists, physiotherapists and athletes in a number of countries and shape fit testing in over 15 different cycle shoes of the major brands.
The Thermoformable (heat mouldable) insoles allow a truly custom fit to both the foot and shoe with even distribution of pressure across the foot thanks to their unique foam construction. Unlike the majority of insoles available that are constructed from compressed or injection moulded EVA foam, Formthotics are 3D milled from a block of proprietary 'closed cell’ foam that not only maintains moulded shapes for longer periods of time (ensuring long term support) but which is flexible, lightweight, supportive, waterproof, resistant to fungi and mould, and hypo-allergenic. This milling process ensures there are no heavily compressed ares in the footbed and that the heel, arch and forefoot structure of our feet are supported in the correct way.
The thermoforming guarantees a truly customised fit for your unique feet and in the context of cycling, optimises the stability of the leg throughout the pedal stroke by helping to correctly align the foot, knee and hip. This is a key aspect of bike fit and poor alignment of the leg can often be the cause of knee and lower back issues commonly found among cyclists. Indeed, in many instances, the use of Formthotics can eliminate - if not dramatically reduce the extent to which there is the need for - cleat wedging and forefoot stabilisation when bike fitting.
As one who has suffered with his feet for many years I can attest to the efficacy of Formthotics. To put it into context, in the last 4 years I have had numerous issues with my feet. In an attempt to remedy the problem I continually micro-adjust my position - not to remedy but to accommodate my pain. I have experimented with no less than 4 brands of cycling shoe, 3 types of pedal (always returning to Speedplay), 3 types of insole and literally dozens of saddles. Aside from a change of crank length along with cleat analysis and wedging, nothing has improved my discomfort to a level that I would consider tolerable. Earlier this year I was introduced to Formthotics on the back of a conversation about bike fit and specifically the role of the foot in cycling. I was assured that they would help. I was, as you can appreciate, sceptical. After one ride I was completely smitten. For the first time in 4 years I was able to ride my bike without my left foot going numb within 6 miles. It did not go numb at all in fact despite sub zero temperatures. I should point out here that I am an extreme case and in 6 years of bike fitting have only ever seen one other with a similar problem (he has been informed) - but as far as I'm concerned that just lends weight to the argument!
In addition to the improved feeling in the foot, I have also noticed less pain through the hip and the outside of my knees, I am also far more aware of what my socks are capable of. An odd thing to say perhaps, but the blood flow in my foot is so much improved I am now able to wear far thinner socks than before, with the insoles helping to improve blood flow and therefore the warmth of my feet in cold conditions - in turn this has improved 'road feel' through the pedal and shoe to give a more 'connected' feel with the bike.
Formthotics customise the fit of your shoe to fit your unique feet, providing greater comfort and less movement in the shoe. If you suffer from foot cramp for example, (often a result of too great a volume in your shoes) or have a tendancy to 'grip' with your toes while cycling, the improved stability offered by the Formthotics insoles may solve your problem. In addition, enhanced road feel; greater warmth and comfort and less muscle fatigue are all likely benefits to those who use them.
The Formthotics Cycling insoles feature a unique cycling specific shape with a reduced arch profile, narrow fit and a Firm Formax foam for maximum stability and support to ensure continued leg alignment and consistent foot support through use.
Formthotics require Thermoforming in-store and for best results, preferably on your bike.