Quote Originally Posted by Aggie_Ama View Post
We did 31.84 miles today with the Aline insoles. At two miles I was ready to throw in the towel, but I loosened my shoes and gave them another shot. Apparently I am my own worst enemy with these things. I love a very snug shoe and tighten my Sidis to the end of where the can go, but with the Alines I noticed significant numbness and pain.
That's pretty common with new orthotic wearers. Any kind of insole changes how your shoes fit. In fact, if you're using an insole or orthotic with a woman's dress shoe, you have to buy shoes to fit the insoles. A lot of 'em are designed so the shoe won't stay on your foot if you have proper support!

Try testing that you can wiggle your toes comfortably and arch your foot inside the shoe. If the ball of your foot is broad, make sure there's a bit of room so you can roll your foot inside the shoe. It doesn't need to be a lot of movement, but you need space for BLOOD. Also check that the heel is cupping your heel correctly. Too tight and too loose both lead to blisters, and they can make it feel like you need the entire shoe to be tighter. I've got broad heels, so a lot of women's shoes just have the wrong heel shape.

Oh, and this may sound odd. Check how your *socks* fit. Your socks should be nice and skintight, with enough stretch so they don't impede blood flow. If you like tight around your feet, having a good sock fit might make it easier to loosen up your shoes.