If you’re a person who has chronic foot problems and pain, it might be time to think about what is behind the source of your foot pain. A lot of people have trouble with pressure points in their forefoot, and this constant pain can make even something as simple as walking very difficult. This is where aids like the best metatarsal pads come into play.
If you’ve never heard of them or if you’re on the fence about trying them, this is for you. Our reviews of the top ten best metatarsal pads will give you a good overview of several brands, and our buying guide will give you the important things to look for when you’re shopping. Finally, our comparison table will allow you to compare these products at a glance.
The Best Metatarsal Pads Buying Guide
What is a Metatarsal Pad?
A metatarsal pad is a thin layer of gel or silicone that either self-adheres or loops around your toe to anchor it to the bottom of your foot. It provides an extra layer of cushioning and support for your foot when you walk. This can help to reduce any pressure points you may have or reduce the aches and pains that come with several common foot conditions.
Different Types of Metatarsal Pads
Although there are dozens of these pads available, there are a few types that are more popular than others, and they include:
Athletic Pads
Athletic pads have a thicker design, and they’re more flexible. They have no-slip grips along the bottom, and they’re great for active people or everyday wear.
Pure Gel Pads
These pads are softer, and they usually fit right to the ball of your foot. This makes them a good choice for people who wear high heels because they’re not directly under your toes.
Self-Adhesive Pads
Self-adhesive pads have a sticky side that adheres to your foot. They’re good for joggers or runners because they stick directly to the bottom of the foot and don’t need adjusting.
Sleeve
A metatarsal sleeve slips around your foot for added structure. They cushion the entire front of your foot and help relieve pressure points.
Metatarsal Cushion Materials
Now that you have a better idea of the different metatarsal cushion types, you want to know what the different materials are so you can find one that fits your lifestyle.
Leather or Latex: The pads themselves are usually made out of a soft and flexible latex that’s wrapped in leather for added durability.
Foam: Foam pads are usually thicker and contain a more plush look and feel. They’re designed to be resilient and to provide all-day comfort.
Gel: Medical-grade gel cushions usually feature tapered edges and thicker middles. They’re very flexible, and you can usually wash and reuse them again and again.
Wool or Polyester: You’ll usually get more support with these types of cushions, but they’re usually meant for shorter periods of wear, and they don’t hold up with extended use.
How Metatarsal Cushions Stay On
You can purchase these cushions that stick to the bottom of your foot. They have an adhesive layer that you stick directly to your foot for all-day wear. You can also buy cushions that stick to the insole of your shoe, and it can reduce any skin irritation you may have due to the adhesive. Finally, you can also get cushions that have a loop that goes over your toe, and the pad hangs under your foot. It may take longer to get these positioned correctly than it would take with the self-adhesive ones, but these types are usually larger.
Ten Best Metatarsal Pads Reviews
1. Dr. Frederick’s Original Metatarsal Pads
You’ll get two metatarsal pads per order, and they’re made out of a flexible gel material that molds to your foot for a superior hold. These pads help to distribute your weight as you walk, and this can reduce the pain that comes with pressure points.
They come with a money back guarantee, and they hook over your middle toe for a secure fit that won’t slide around while you walk. It is designed to have non-slip ridges, and it is made with a biodegradable material that can last weeks before they break down.
Pros
Has non-slip ridges for stability
Hoks over your toe for a secure fit
Cons
May take time to get the pad on correctly
Gel doesn’t let air reach the skin so it’s hot
2. DR JK- Ball of Foot Cushions
Each order will get you a pair of ball of foot metatarsal cushions along with a pair of gel ball of foot pads. They’re made of stretchable medical-grade gel for extra comfort and durability. It helps with a variety of issues including blisters and neuroma.
These cushions add an extra layer of padding to your feet to help relieve the aches and pains that come with being on your feet all day or pressure points. They wrap securely around your foot for a snug fit. The gel molds to the bottom of your feet for a superior feel.
Pros
Made with medical-grade gel
Get two different pads with per order
Cons
May be too thick for some shoes
Toe ring may be too tight and uncomfortable
3. Dr. Jill’s Felt Metatarsal Pads
These pads are made with one-quarter inch thick felt for a soft feel. It has a tapered shape that allows this cushion to fit your foot. They also come with adhesive on one side so it sticks securely to your foot when you put it on.
When you put this cushion on, it helps to distribute your weight over your entire foot to reduce any pressure points. It also helps to keep your feet stable in your shoes when you walk. You can also stick them directly to your shoes instead of to your foot.
Pros
Had adhesive to stick securely to your foot
Helps to relieve pressure point pain
Cons
Edges don’t have a sloped design
May be too thick for certain shoes
4. HappyFeet Ball of Foot Cushions
These soft gel cushions mold to the bottom of your foot and provide a tapered but soft gel padding. They feature a self-stick design that makes them quick and easy to apply and take off, and they’re compatible with a variety of shoes.
These shoes are also reusable, and you can simply wash them and reuse them again and again. They’re also designed to be odor-resistant, and they come with a money back guarantee if you’re not satisfied. You can also get the stickiness back by washing them and letting them air dry.
Pro
Features an easy self-adhesive design
Pads come with a reusable design that’s cost-efficient
Cons
Dense gel doesn’t allow for airflow so they get hot
May slip or come off if your feet get hot
5. Pedag Drop Anatomically Correct Metatarsal Arch Pads
These cushions are a medium thickness, and they come cut into a teardrop shape that lets them mold to your feet. You get more cushioning in the middle and they taper off to the side for a more comfortable fit.
They can help to relieve sore and achy feet as well as giving additional support to the metatarsal area of your forefoot. You can choose from eight different sizes and two different quantities to customize your order to suit your needs. They also come in different shapes so you can mold it to your foot.
Pros
Made with soft and breathable material
Comes in several sizes and shapes
Cons
May cause your foot pain to travel up your legs
May go flat and need to be replaced quickly
6. MARS Wellness Metatarsal Felt Foot Pad
This flexible and breathable foot pad has a thicker middle with a skived design that tapers at the edges. It is teardrop-shaped so it can fit to your foot comfortably. It’s also designed to allow for a good amount of airflow so it doesn’t get hot when you wear it.
This pad can help to alleviate the stabbing pain that comes from pressure points, and it can help soothe tired and achy feet. These pads are made in the USA to very high standards, and you get a self-adhesive backing for a secure fit.
Pros
Secure self adhesive backing
Thin design has breathable fabric
Cons
Fabric may be too thin to provide adequate support
Backing may not stick properly, especially for extended wear
7. Lunoda Metatarsal Pads
You get two different pairs of pads with one order. One is a ball of your foot cushion, and the other is a metatarsal pad. The thin gel design stretches to fit a variety of feet sizes and shapes for a comfortable and secure fit all day.
These pads are washable and reusable, so they’re a very cost-effective option. They have non-slip raised designs along the bottom, and one pair slides over your foot to anchor in place. You’ll get a 100 percent money back guarantee so if you’re not satisfied you can send them back for a refund.
Pros
Made with a medical-grade bio silicone gel
Slide over your feet for a secure fit
Cons
May get hot throughout the day
Pads might not fit larger feet
8. Pnrskter Metatarsal Pads
These metatarsal pads are formulated with medical-grade soft gel. They slide over your feet and anchor in place for a secure fit. The gel contains layers of Vitamin E that can soothe and moisturize your feet as you wear them. It also features a cellular design for premium airflow.
They reduce feet soreness, aches, pains, and fatigue that comes with standing all day. They also help with blisters, pressure points, bunions, corns, calluses, fat pad atrophy, and more. You get six pieces in every order, and these pads are washable and reusable.
Pros
Vitamin E layers to soothe and moisturize your skin
Unique cellular design allows for airflow
Cons
May not withstand prolonged use without damage
Very thin design that may not give enough support
9. Skyfoot’s Metatarsal Pads
These half sleeve metatarsal pads are made with soft and durable medical-grade TPE gel material, and the forefoot cushions are made with stretchy PU Gel for a secure fit. You get a self-adhesive backing so these cushions anchor to your feet for a secure fit.
The super stretchy design means that these pads fit most feet sizes, and they help to reduce pressure point pain and fatigue. You can wash these pads after each use and reuse them again and again. These pads come with a 100 percent satisfaction guarantee and a one-year warranty.
Pros
Made with a soft and stretchy medical-grade gel
Slips over the foot for a secure fit
Cons
Very thin and may not give enough support
Self-adhesive may not stick all day
10. Vill Beauty Metatarsal Pads
This six pack of super stretchy silicone gel pads feature a wider design that fits your entire forefoot. It hooks around your toe to hold it in place, and you get relief from blisters, cracks, or aching feet all with one pad.
You’re able to wash these pads with warm water and soap to wear them again and again. They can last for around six months, so they’re a very cost-effective option if you want to try them and see if they work. Each pad is uniquely shaped to contour to your left and right foot for superior comfort.
Pros
Made with durable silicone gel
Can last for up to six months
Cons
Toe loop may cause indentations
May make your shoes slightly tighter
No matter what type of foot pain you have, a metatarsal cushion or pad may help to relieve your aches and pains. There are dozens of different choices available, and it may take some experimenting until you find the one that suits your needs. Our buying guide and reviews should be enough to give you a good starting point, and you can be on your way to pain-free feet.
