Description
Formthotics Cycle Insoles – Custom Support for Cycling Shoes
Formthotics Cycle Insoles replace the flat, unsupportive stock insole in your cycling shoes with a thermoformable platform that stabilises the foot, supports the arch and improves power transfer through the pedal stroke. The deep heel cup locks the heel in place to reduce movement inside the shoe, while the arch contour helps distribute pedalling forces evenly across the ball of the foot — reducing hot spots and forefoot numbness on longer rides.
Made from Formax™ foam in New Zealand, they can be heat-moulded in-clinic by a podiatrist or bike fitter for a fully custom fit, or worn straight from the pack. The closed-cell foam adds minimal weight (approximately 18g) and provides insulation against cold conditions and vents under the shoe.
Why Cyclists Need Better Insoles
Cycling shoes are designed for stiffness and power transfer, not comfort. The stock insoles are typically flat and thin with no arch support. Over a long ride, this leads to forefoot pain, arch fatigue, numb toes and hot spots — all signs that pedalling forces aren't being distributed properly. A contoured, supportive insole addresses this by keeping the foot stable and spreading pressure more evenly across the sole.
Key Features
- Thermoformable Formax™ foam — heat-mouldable for a custom fit that improves with wear
- Deep heel cup — locks the heel in place for stability and efficient power transfer
- Arch support — longitudinal and transverse support reduces forefoot fatigue and hot spots
- Ultra-Fresh antimicrobial treatment — controls odour from sweat
- Minimal weight — approximately 18g added to rotating mass
- Cold insulation — provides a barrier against cold air from shoe vents
Suitable For
- Road, mountain, gravel and track cycling
- Indoor training and spin bikes with clip-in shoes
- Cyclists with forefoot pain, numbness or hot spots
- Riders wanting a more customised fit inside stiff cycling shoes
Cycle Insoles vs Running Insoles
Cycling loads the foot very differently from running — the forces go through the forefoot into the pedal rather than through the heel. The Cycle insole is shaped for this specific loading pattern and fits the narrow profile of cycling shoes. If you also run, the Sport Run Dual or Run Single are designed for running gait and wider shoe profiles.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will these fit in my cycling shoes?
They're designed for cycling-specific shoes with clip-in cleats — road, MTB, gravel and track. Remove the existing stock insole and replace it with the Formthotics Cycle. Trim if needed using the guides marked on the insole.
Can these fix hot spots and numb toes?
Hot spots and forefoot numbness during cycling are commonly caused by uneven pressure distribution across the ball of the foot. The arch support and heel cup help redistribute these forces, which often reduces or eliminates the problem. If numbness persists, it's worth seeing a podiatrist for a cleat and fit assessment.
Do I need to get these heat-moulded?
No — they work out of the pack and will gradually conform to your foot. Heat moulding by a podiatrist or experienced bike fitter gives a closer, more immediate fit and is recommended if you have specific foot issues.
How long do they last?
With regular riding, most cyclists get 12 months or more from a pair. Cycling puts less repetitive impact through insoles than running, so they tend to last longer than running-specific insoles.
Can I use running Formthotics in my cycling shoes instead?
Running insoles are thicker and shaped for a wider shoe last — they likely won't fit properly in cycling shoes and aren't designed for pedalling forces. Use the Cycle insole for cycling shoes.