Oh, how you've transformed the landscape of my weary feet. Like a magical forest nymph, you've sprinkled arch-supporting stardust upon my soles, leading me to foot bliss. I must confess, before you graced my shoes, my arches felt like forlorn bridges collapsing under the weight of the world. But now, thanks to your presence, my feet are floating on clouds, ready to conquer both literal and metaphorical mountains.
You see, I've traversed many terrains in search of the perfect foot companion. Gel inserts left me feeling like I was walking on sticky jellyfish, while foam pads made me yearn for the softness of a marshmallow. But you, my dear Fulton cork insoles, you're the Goldilocks of foot support—just right, like a perfectly steeped cup of tea on a rainy afternoon.
With each step I take, I can almost hear you whispering sweet nothings to my arches, cradling them with tender care. It's as if you've gathered all the wisdom of ancient trees and infused it into your corky essence. You provide stability and alignment, like a wise old guru guiding my feet along the path of enlightenment. My toes wiggle with delight, as they dance to the rhythm of your arch-supporting symphony.
So, as I embark on new journeys, be they literal hikes or metaphorical leaps of faith, I carry you with me, nestled snugly within my trusty shoes. Together, we shall conquer mountains, traverse valleys, and dance along the twisting paths of life. With your arch-supporting magic and quirky charm, I'm ready to face the world—one step at a time.
Forever grateful,
A Sole-ful Wanderer
Fulton Cork Insoles Gear Review
When I originally put the Fulton cork insoles in my shoes I had been dealing with some plantar fasciitis that led to a hard and painful plantar fibroma in the bottom of my left foot. My doctor recommended some prescription insoles that were upwards of $300. I decided to hold off on those, and see what these Fulton insoles could do for me. Within the first two weeks, my foot pain was completely gone. After six weeks, the majority of my ankle, achilles, and hip pain is gone as well.
I have worn these insoles in my Brooks running shoes for six weeks and have walked over 125 miles in them. I typically walk 2-5 miles per day on a hard packed dirt and gravel road. The break in period wasn’t too bad, though I did have some soreness in my feet. They started to break into my unique foot shape within 6 days, and now I can feel them getting more comfortable and supporting me in the places I need support every day.
The side-by-side comparison of these insoles with the ones that came in my Brooks is LAUGHABLE. It's like comparing a sheet of paper to a TempurPedic mattress.
But it's not just their functional prowess that impressed me. These insoles possess a charm that sets them apart from the mundane masses of drugstore insoles. They sport lively colors, a dash of quirkiness and a sprinkle of personality. The textured cork resembles a patchwork quilt made of all my favorite things in nature: pine needle-laden trails, the bare dirt beneath my feet, and the bark of an oak tree while I pause in the shade of its branches.
And let’s not forget how eco-friendly these are. I find solace knowing they are sourced from sustainable cork trees. They remind me that my comfort doesn't need to come at the expense of the planet’s wellbeing. With every step, I embrace the knowledge that I’m treading lightly, leaving nothing behind but gentle footprints.
Pros of Fulton Insoles
Customized Support: Cork molds to the shape of your foot, so over time, it learns to support you in the way you need it most.
Sustainability: Cork is a renewable resource, and the harvesting of cork bark does not harm the tree. In fact, it is beneficial for the tree, as it promotes growth and helps to maintain the ecosystem. Portugal is the largest producer of cork in the world, and the cork oak forests there are an important part of the country's biodiversity.
Durability: Cork is a highly durable material that is resistant to moisture, heat, and wear. It is also lightweight and flexible … in other words, the perfect addition to any shoe!
Insulation: Cork is an excellent thermal insulator.
Aesthetics: Cork has a unique, natural texture and appearance that adds visual interest to these insoles. Additionally, Fulton Insoles are available in two colors and styles, which means you can choose the right style for you, and be cute too. (Note: GGG only carries Fulton’s athletic insole).
Health/Safety: Cork is a hypoallergenic and antimicrobial material, which means it does not promote the growth of bacteria, mold, or fungus. It is also fire-resistant.
90 Day Comfort Guarantee: If you buy these Fulton insoles and they don’t make love to your feet, like they did with mine, you can return or exchange them during the first 90 days!
Cons
Break In Period: These are not the kind of insoles you will put in your shoe and feel immediate comfort (unless you already prefer a stiff arch support like Birkenstocks). These will need to be broken in — it won’t take long, maybe a mile or two per day plus walking around like normal for maybe a week.
Specs
I have the Fulton Athletic Insole in a Women’s Size 8 (the insoles are sized, so no trimming necessary!)
Materials: Sustainably-Sourced Cork, Natural Latex Cushioning Foam, Organic Cotton
Weight: 3.3 oz.
Price: $59.95
Bottom Line
I wrote a Love Letter to these insoles because they truly are deserving of my love and praise. The insoles that come in our shoes are TERRIBLE, and replacing them with Fulton’s Athletic Insole is 100% going to enrich your experience in the world, as a person with feet.
They are affordable, they mold to your feet, they fit well inside running shoes and hiking boots, they are made sustainably, and they really do exactly what they say they will. I plan on buying a pair for each of my athletic shoes, because of how effective they are.
Ace Curtis is a plus-sized outdoor enthusiast. She enjoys hiking in Northern California and taking photos of many tree-covered hillsides. She was born and raised in Mt Shasta, CA at the base of a 14,163’ mountain. She is currently working with her husband on creating an off-grid lifestyle on 2.5 acres just a few miles from where she started life, 36 years ago.
