Finding the best heated insoles for hiking is crucial. Staying comfortable while participating in outdoor activities, especially in the cold, is not always an easy task. Keeping your feet warm can make your entire body feel more comfortable, which is why in the following article, you will find the answer to the question: “What are the best heated insoles for hiking?”.
The 5 best heated insoles for hiking:
1. ThermaCELL Proflex Insoles (best overall)
The ThermaCELL insoles are made out of a tough polymer called polypropylene, which is water-resistant, flexible, and durable. You can adjust the heat with a wireless remote control. Heating is provided using rechargeable lithium-ion batteries.
Pros
- They offer great quality for a medium price range. These insoles go for around $135, which is certainly not cheap. However, heated insoles can reach up to $300 or more in price, so $135 is relatively affordable, especially for the quality these insoles provide.
- A standby mode allows you to turn off the heat without taking off your shoes. If your feet get a bit too toasty, you can turn off the heat setting using the remote, and you don’t have to go through the hassle of taking your shoes off to do so.
- They recharge in only 4 hours. These insoles have a quick recharge time, and they can be recharged at least 500 times with the included charger.
Cons
- While it is a mid-range option, these insoles are still a large investment. If you don’t have much money to spend on heated insoles, these may be a bit out of your price range.
- They’re thick, so your shoes may feel a little tight. Heated insoles will always add bulk inside your shoe, so your footwear may feel a little snug.
- The heat doesn’t last very long. If you keep the heat setting on constantly, these insoles will lose charge in around 4 hours. If you don’t need them any longer than that, great! However, if you go on longer hikes, this may not be the best choice for you.
2. Warmfits Heated Insoles (best value)
The Warmfits Heated Insoles insoles come with lithium-ion polymer batteries that offer 5-6 hours of runtime. You can charge the batteries with a power bank or the main socket, so you can recharge from a tent, campervan, or cabin after a day of hiking.
Pros
- These insoles have a lower price tag than other heated insoles. If you’re on a tight budget, these may be the right choice for you. At only $50, these insoles offer heat without breaking the bank.
- They’re slim enough to feel like regular insoles. These insoles don’t have as much bulk as others, so your shoes won’t feel as tight.
- They’re made from cozy EVA foam. The insoles don’t only provide warmth; they offer cushy coziness as well!
Cons
- They’re designed to be cut to size, so you’ll need to trim them. They can fit US women size 6 to 13 or US men size 5 to 12, so if you’re outside of that range, you’re out of luck.
- There are no temperature settings. Unlike some other options, these insoles don’t have temperature settings, so it’s possible your feet won’t be warm enough, or they’ll overheat and get sweaty.
3. Hotronic Footwarmer S4+ (best for long hikes)
The Hotronic S4+ Series insoles are powered by high-capacity batteries created by Hotronic, and they come with a bonus setting that provides an extra blast of heat if your feet feel too cold. They also come with hooks so you can attach them to the outside of your boots, so they’re secure and stay in place.
Pros
- They’re one of the best options for long hikes. These insoles can provide warmth at the lowest setting for over twenty hours. If you’re a fan of long hikes, these are the insoles for you! However, if you use the higher settings or the heat blast feature, they’ll only last 5-7 hours.
- The heat blast mode is unique and great for those with particularly cold feet. The special fourth setting that provides a blast of additional heat is an unusual feature and one that those whose feet get especially cold will appreciate.
Cons
- They’ve got a high price tag. These insoles cost approximately $230. This may be worth it to you if you spend a lot of time hiking in the cold, but if you only go on one or two cold-weather hikes a year, the investment is likely not worth it.
- The battery pack is bulky. The battery pack may be uncomfortable and might even catch on things as you walk.
4. HotHands Foot Warmers (most affordable)
The HotHands line of disposable insoles don’t rely on electric heating elements. They are self-heating, so you open the packet and shake to activate.
Pros
- They can provide heat for up to nine hours. This is no small feat for insoles that don’t have electric heating elements!
Even though they’re disposable, they’re still safe for the environment. These insoles are made with natural ingredients and are TSA-approved, so if you’re traveling for a hike, you can put these in your carry-on. - They’re odor absorbing. If you’re hiking, your feet will probably sweat and start to smell. Hey, it happens! The charcoal ingredient in these insoles doubles as an odor absorber and can help mask that smell.
- They’re cheap. If you’re on a tight budget or you don’t hike often, these are a great choice for you. One pack will set you back approximately $40, but it contains sixteen pairs.
Cons
- You can only use each pair once. These are disposable and not reusable like the others on this list, so you’ll have to repurchase once you run out of pairs.
- There are no temperature settings. Suppose your feet are too hot or cold with these in your shoes, too bad. There’s only one temperature.
Best for a Variety of Sizes:
5. Dr. Warm R3 Insoles (most variety of sizes)
The Dr. Warm R3 wireless insoles have a remote-controlled battery pack built into the heel of the insole. This remote allows you to turn the heat on and off and switch between the three heat settings.
Pros
- There are three temperature settings. If you’re picky about the temperature of your feet, or you absolutely can’t stand overheating, these insoles allow you to choose between three settings.
- They’re affordable. These will set you back around $70, which is reasonable for a pair of quality heated insoles.
They’re available in small and large sizes. If you have smaller or larger than average feet, these are a good pick for you. Or, if you’re purchasing for a child, the small is a suitable option.
Cons
- They have a short runtime. These are not the best choice for hikers who like all-day adventures. The battery will only last two or three hours on the highest setting.
- The battery pack in the heel adds weight and bulk to your shoe. These insoles could take some getting used to because of the added weight, and the bulk could make your shoes uncomfortable.
Why You’ll Love Heated Insoles While Hiking
You may be wondering if you need heated insoles at all, and if you are someone who spends a lot of time hiking in cold weather, my answer is yes. Here’s why:
They keep your feet warm. When you’re hiking in the cold, your feet are exposed to frigid temperatures, and it’s important to keep your feet warm not just for your comfort but for your safety as well. Frostbite and Chilblains can happen more quickly and more often than you might think.
Furthermore, if you’re walking on rough terrain with numb feet, you’re more likely to trip or misstep, which could result in an injury.
They can provide additional support. Many insoles are designed to provide you with comfort and support. Insoles can relieve pressure and help with pain relief.
Warm feet improve your body’s overall circulation. Good circulation keeps your extremities warm, increases your blood flow, and prevents frostbite. Now that you know why you should get some heated insoles, let’s take a look at the best ones on the market.
Closing Thoughts
The best heated insoles for hiking are durable, long-lasting, and comfortable. At the mid-price range, the best heated insoles for hiking are the ThermaCELL Proflex Heated Insoles. However, there are other good options on the market.
In this article, we discussed why you should invest in some heated insoles, as well as described in detail the pros and cons of my top five picks. Now, you can buy the best heated insoles for you and keep your feet (and, as a result, your entire body) warmer on your next hiking adventure.
The best heated insoles for you depends on how much you’re willing to spend, how often you hike in cold weather, and how cold your feet get. All of the above options are great choices. What’s most important is staying safe while participating in outdoor activities, so you can keep hiking for years to come with healthy and happy feet!
Up Next In Hiking:
Gorilla Glue for Shoe Soles? (Hiking Shoe Quick Fix)
What should you NOT wear while hiking? (10 Common Clothing Mistakes)
Snowshoeing VS Hiking: Which is more difficult?
What Are the Best Soles for Walking on Ice?
Erick is a freelance writer and outdoor enthusiast. Growing up in Nairobi Kenya and now calling Glasgow, United Kingdom home. Sipping on homemade spiced swahili tea and enjoying a good book is his idea of bliss.