Insoles or anti-fatigue mats? Both provide helpful ergonomic support, but which provides the best long-term return on investment?
Three factors can help you make informed buying decisions – cost, quality, and value. We explore each below.
1. Cost – Insoles vs. 100-1 Series Anti-Fatigue Mat
The average pair of generic and non-customized orthotic insoles costs $40 (custom insoles are often over $100). Consider a distribution center, clean room, or medical technology lab with 100 workers.
100 x $40 per pair of insoles: $4,000
Most insoles last 6 months. Higher-quality insoles can last up to 2 years depending on use. For workers who stand on hard surfaces for at least 6 hours a day, podiatrists recommend replacing insoles every 4 months or roughly 650-700 working hours.
Yearly cost for insoles: $12,000
Premium anti-fatigue mats like the AcroMat 100-1 Series, our most versatile and durable ergo mat, costs ~$15 per square foot. A 4 by 20 mat (80 square feet) would cost around $1200. The mat comes with a 2-year full replacement warranty protecting against curling and flattening, has a life expectancy of 3-8 years, and can be cleaned without breaking down.
The AcroMat 100-1 Series is guaranteed not to curl or flatten, and can be customized to any shape and size to cover complex layouts.
10 100-1 Series mats for 100 people: $12,000
If the mat lasts 3 years: $4,000/year
If the mat lasts 5 years: $2,400/year
If the mat lasts 8 years: $1,500/year
Cost Winner: 100-1 Series Anti-Fatigue Mat
Based purely on costs and life expectancy, in this instance the edge goes to the 100-1 Series anti-fatigue mat. Insoles are easy to order, durable, and can be cost-effective for workforces that aren’t required to stand for long periods. They also make sense for highly mobile teams that go back and forth across facilities each day.
But given how quickly the ergonomic benefits of insoles fade from prolonged standing, and the fact that the 100-1 Series will never flatten, the anti-fatigue mat offers better return on investment.
Anti-fatigue mats are also turnover-proof. In an industry where workers leave often, mats stay with you and don't need to be replaced with departures.
2. Quality and Value – Insoles vs. 100-1 Series Anti-Fatigue Mat
Insoles reduce pressure on a worker’s feet, legs, back, and neck. They promote healthy blood flow which reduces risks of cardiovascular diseases. They are exponentially more comfortable than strictly shoe to cement, tile or metal grating.
Similarly, premium mats like the AcroMat 100-1 Series reduce pressure on a worker’s feet, legs, back, and neck. The 100-1 Series is made from 100% nitrile, which does not lose its ergonomic cushion, ever.
Like insoles, premium mats promote healthy blood flow and the benefits that follow. In addition, this premium anti-fatigue mat includes:
- Non-slip surface
- Customizable to any shape and size
- Antimicrobial, non-allergenic
- Latex free, silicone free
- Impervious to liquids and chemicals (acids, oil, fuel)
- Can be cleaned with acid-based cleaners without breaking down
- Can be repaired without being fully replaced
The 100-1 Series is NFSI Certified for "High Traction," providing critical wet-slip resistance in heavy industrial settings.
Quality and Value Winner: 100-1 Series Anti-Fatigue Mat
Depending on the size of your workforce, work being done, and layout of the work environment, insoles offer a valuable solution. Yet, anti-fatigue mats last years longer than insoles. They can be designed and customized to cover an entire workspace, eliminating work on hard flooring and trip hazards. They reduce risks of bacteria build up and exposure to potentially harmful particles.
As touched on above, they are turnover proof unlike insoles. Insoles need specific sizes, and new pairs for every new hire. Conversely, you can set and essentially forget the 100-1 Series for up to 8 years.
Based purely on quality and value, the edge again goes to the 100-1 Series anti-fatigue mat. Insoles and anti-fatigue mats can serve the purpose you need. The key is uncovering which solution best meets the need.
Regardless of Approach, Focus on Your People
More than 35 million adults in the workforce with a musculoskeletal condition (e.g., tendonitis, arthritis, past bone injures like a fracture) reported lost workdays over the past year – totaling nearly 364 million days.
In an industry that relies on workers being present and productive, the risk of not having an anti-fatigue solution in place is far greater than the cost. Both insoles and anti-fatigue mats provide valuable benefits. The key is uncovering which solution answers the most pressing needs of your workforce.
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You're not limited to insoles if you have a large, complex layout that needs to provide ergonomic support. Consider this custom anti-fatigue mat for a leading windows and doors manufacturer: