Using the Insoles

The PowerStep ProTech Control Wide is a full-length orthotic intended for wide feet and wide-width footwear. It should sit flat inside the shoe with the heel positioned securely at the back.

1. Remove the shoe’s existing factory insole or liner when possible.
2. Confirm that the PowerStep size corresponds with your U.S. shoe size.
3. Place the left and right orthotics inside the corresponding shoes with the fabric side facing upward.
4. Push each orthotic fully back so its heel cradle rests securely against the heel of the shoe.
5. Make sure the orthotic lies flat and does not fold, buckle, or crowd the toes.
6. Put on the shoes and check that your heels remain secure and that the footwear still provides adequate depth and toe room.

Choosing a Size

PowerStep offers the ProTech Control Wide in 10 sizes covering men’s U.S. shoe sizes 4 through 15 and women’s U.S. shoe sizes 6 through 12. Select the size that corresponds with your regular shoe size using the manufacturer’s full-length insole sizing chart.

• Size A fits men’s 4–4.5 and women’s 6–6.5.
• Size B fits men’s 5–5.5 and women’s 7–7.5.
• Size C fits men’s 6–6.5 and women’s 8–8.5.
• Size D fits men’s 7–7.5 and women’s 9–9.5.
• Size E fits men’s 8–8.5 and women’s 10–10.5.
• Size F fits men’s 9–9.5 and women’s 11–11.5.
• Size G fits men’s 10–10.5 and women’s 12.
• Size H fits men’s 11–11.5.
• Size I/J fits men’s 12–13.
• Size K fits men’s 14–15.

Choosing Appropriate Footwear

The ProTech Control Wide has a wider forefoot and is intended for wide feet and wide-width footwear. Because it is a full-length orthotic with maximum cushioning, the shoe must have enough interior length, width, and depth to accommodate it properly.

• Use the orthotics in footwear wide enough for the entire insole to lie flat.
• Remove the shoe’s factory liner when possible to create sufficient interior space.
• Do not force the orthotic into footwear that causes the edges to curl or the forefoot to buckle.
• Make sure the orthotic does not crowd the toes or cause the heel to lift out of the shoe.
• The orthotics may be moved between compatible pairs of shoes, although PowerStep recommends using a separate pair in each frequently worn pair of shoes to help extend product life.

Adjusting to Firmer Support

The ProTech Control Wide provides firmer support and greater correction than a standard cushioned shoe insole. PowerStep states that most new users take approximately one to two weeks to become accustomed to wearing orthotic insoles.

1. Wear the orthotics for up to one hour on the first day.
2. Increase wear time by approximately one additional hour each day.
3. If the orthotics are comfortable after five hours of wear on the fifth day, they may be worn full time.
4. More sensitive users may begin with approximately 30 minutes of wear at a time and increase gradually.

Trimming and Fit Adjustments

PowerStep states that most of its full-size insoles provide a true-to-size fit without trimming. When trimming is necessary, PowerStep recommends removing no more than one-half inch and using the shoe’s original factory insole as a cutting template.

• Check the fit before making any permanent adjustment.
• Trim only the forefoot edge unless otherwise directed by a medical professional.
• Remove a small amount at a time and test the fit after each adjustment.
• Do not cut into the structured arch support, heel cradle, or heel post.

Important Safety Information

• The ProTech Control Wide is designed for firmer support and correction of overpronation and may not be appropriate for every arch type or foot condition.
• Follow the sizing or usage recommendations provided by your medical professional.
• Do not use the orthotics if they are folded, damaged, or unable to lie flat inside the shoes.
• Discontinue use and consult an appropriate healthcare professional if you experience persistent or worsening pain, numbness, skin irritation, pressure areas, or changes in walking comfort.
• People with diabetes, reduced foot sensation, impaired circulation, open wounds, or other conditions affecting the feet should consult their healthcare professional before using or modifying orthotic insoles.

Cleaning and Care

• Spot clean the orthotics using a mild detergent.
• Do not immerse or soak the orthotics in water.
• Allow them to air dry completely before returning them to the shoes.
• Do not place the orthotics in a clothes washer or dryer.
• Do not use direct heat to accelerate drying.
• Inspect the top cover, cushioning, support shell, heel cradle, and heel post periodically for wear or damage.

Replacement

PowerStep states that its insoles generally last six months or longer under normal casual wear. Product life may be shorter with daily use or rigorous activity, and the orthotics should be replaced when there is a noticeable decrease in cushioning, comfort, or support.

Manufacturer Guarantee

PowerStep states that its products are guaranteed to be free from defects in materials and workmanship and include a lifetime guarantee against breakage of the internal plastic foot support under normal conditions. PowerStep also describes a 60-day satisfaction guarantee, but returns must be made through the place of purchase, and products purchased from unauthorized resellers are excluded from that guarantee.

o longer provide a secure and comfortable fit.