Frequently Asked Questions

Please see below the most common questions asked by our customers.

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Pregunta

ZeroSole is a customisable pressure relief insole specifically designed to treat corns, calluses, and other pressure induced foot conditions. Created by UK podiatrists, it features a unique hexagonal grid design that allows you to remove individual cells directly beneath your pain points, redistributing pressure away from problem areas.

Pregunta

Unlike standard insoles that provide uniform cushioning across your entire foot, ZeroSole provides both cushioning and targeted customisation. You can remove specific hexagonal cells to create a pressure free zone exactly where you need it. This addresses the root cause of corns and calluses (concentrated pressure) rather than just providing general comfort.

Pregunta

ZeroSole is specifically designed for:

  • Corns (hard corns under the ball or sole of the foot)
  • Calluses (thickened skin on pressure points)
  • Plantar fasciitis
  • Metatarsalgia (ball of foot pain)
  • Pressure-induced foot lesions
  • General foot pain caused by concentrated pressure points

Pregunta

Yes. ZeroSole has undergone two significant studies:

Laboratory Testing (University of Wales Trinity Saint David - ATiC): Pressure mapping studies showed ZeroSole reduced pressure at targeted areas by 23-32% compared to normal shoes, without affecting natural gait.

Clinical Trial (Cardiff Metropolitan University): A 6 week study demonstrated statistically significant pain reduction and clinically noteworthy decreases in lesion size in participants with plantar corns and calluses.

Sizing & Fit

What sizes are available?

ZeroSole comes in two size ranges:

  • Small-Medium: UK sizes 4-7 (EU 37-41 / US 5-7)
  • Medium-Large: UK sizes 8-11 (EU 42-46 / US 8.5-12)

Each insole can be trimmed to fit your exact shoe size using the printed sizing guide on the insole, which displays UK/EU/US conversions and includes half sizes.

How do I know which size to order?

Choose based on your UK shoe size:

  • If you wear UK 4-7 (EU 37-41 / US 5-7), order Small-Medium
  • If you wear UK 8-11 (EU 42-46 / US 8.5-12), order Medium-Large

The insole can be trimmed, so you can customise it to your exact shoe size.

Will ZeroSole fit in my shoes?

ZeroSole is approximately 5.5mm thick at the forefoot and 20mm at the heel and can fit into most conventional enclosed footwear including:

  • Trainers
  • Work boots
  • Casual shoes
  • Athletic shoes

Important: You may need to remove the existing insert from your shoe, to avoid tightness.

Can I use ZeroSole in multiple pairs of shoes?

Yes, you can transfer ZeroSole between similar shoe types. However, many customers find it convenient to purchase multiple pairs so they can use across work shoes, trainers, and casual footwear without needing to swap insoles. We offer discounts for customers who purchase multiple pairs. 

How to Use

How do I customise ZeroSole?

Follow these 5 simple steps:

  1. Trim to fit: Cut the insole to match your shoe size using the sizing guide
  2. Mark your pressure point: Apply the included double-sided adhesive marker pad to your corn, callus or pain point. 
  3. Transfer the mark: Step on the ZeroSole insole to transfer the marker to the corresponding cells
  4. Remove cells: Pull out the hexagonal cells under the marker by hand (no tools needed)
  5. Insert and wear: Place in your footwear

The entire customisation process takes no more than 5 minutes.

Do I need any special tools to remove the cells?

No. The hexagonal cells are designed to be removed by hand. Simply pull them out from underneath the insole - no scissors or tools required.

Are the stickers a bit fiddly - any tips?

Some customers mention the stickers can be fiddly to work with. Here are some tips:

  • Make sure your foot is clean and dry before applying the sticker. Avoid applying any moisturiser to your feet shortly beforehand, as this can make it difficult for the sticker to stick to the skin.
  • Press firmly when stepping on the insole to ensure a clear transfer
  • If you're struggling, you can also mark the painful area on your foot and carefully identify the corresponding cells on the insole without using the stickers

What if I'm not sure exactly where to remove cells?

Start conservatively - remove fewer cells initially. You can always remove additional cells later if needed. If you're unsure about placement, our podiatry team can provide guidance. It's better to under customise at first than to remove too many cells.

Once cells are removed they cannot be reinserted. This is why we recommend starting conservatively and removing additional cells only if needed.

Performance & Results

How quickly will I feel relief?

Most users report noticeable pain relief within the first day of wearing ZeroSole. According to our clinical study, pain reduction is often immediate once cells are removed from the pressure point.

How long does ZeroSole last?

With regular daily use, ZeroSole insoles typically last 6-8 months before the medical grade silicone begins to show significant wear. This is considerably longer than foam insoles which compress within 2-3 months.

Is ZeroSole a permanent solution and do I need to keep using it?

ZeroSole addresses the primary cause (pressure) that creates corns and calluses. As long as the underlying pressure pattern remains (due to your foot structure, gait, or footwear), continued use of ZeroSole helps prevent recurrence. Many customers use it as a long-term management solution.

Will my corn completely disappear?

While ZeroSole significantly reduces pain and pressure, corns may not completely disappear. The clinical trial showed clinically noteworthy reduction in lesion size over 6 weeks. By removing the constant pressure, your body stops rebuilding the protective thickened skin, and existing corns gradually diminish. Professional podiatry debridement (removal of the corn) can be done alongside ZeroSole use to speed up this process. 

Does ZeroSole work for corns or calluses on the ball of my foot?

Yes! Ball-of-foot corns and calluses are one of the most common uses for ZeroSole. You remove the hexagonal cells directly beneath the affected metatarsal heads (the joints that make up the ball of the foot) to redistribute pressure. Many clinical study participants had ball-of-foot lesions with positive outcomes.

Can ZeroSole help with plantar fasciitis?

Yes. ZeroSole can help with plantar fasciitis by providing targeted pressure relief and cushioning in the heel area where pain is concentrated. The customisable cells allow you to offload the most tender areas.

Materials & Care

What material is ZeroSole made from?

ZeroSole is constructed from:

  • Medical grade silicone for the hexagonal cell structure
  • Memory foam for cushioning
  • Breathable mesh top layer for moisture management

Is ZeroSole breathable?

Yes. The top layer features breathable material designed to wick away moisture, keeping feet dry and comfortable during extended wear.

How do I clean ZeroSole?

Wipe clean with a damp cloth. Do not machine wash. Allow to air dry completely before reinserting into footwear.

Is ZeroSole durable?

Yes. The medical-grade silicone maintains its shape and pressure-redistributing properties over months of use, unlike foam insoles that compress and lose effectiveness quickly. Customer reviews consistently mention durability as a key benefit.

Suitability

Can anyone use ZeroSole?

ZeroSole is suitable for most people experiencing pressure-induced foot pain. However, it is NOT suitable for:

  • Individuals with diabetes (consult your podiatrist first)
  • People with peripheral neuropathy (reduced foot sensation) - consult your podiatrist first
  • Anyone with peripheral vascular disease 
  • Individuals with open wounds or infected corns
  • Those with severe structural foot deformities without professional guidance

Why can't people with diabetes use ZeroSole without consulting a podiatrist?

People with diabetes often have reduced sensation in their feet (peripheral neuropathy), meaning they might not notice if something isn't fitting properly or causing problems. While ZeroSole itself is safe, anyone with diabetes should consult their podiatrist before using any new foot product to ensure it's appropriate for their specific situation.

I have soft corns between my toes. Will ZeroSole help?

ZeroSole works on the plantar (bottom) surface of the foot, not between toes. For interdigital (between-toe) soft corns, we recommend:

  • Consulting a podiatrist for proper debridement
  • Using toe separators to reduce friction
  • Ensuring footwear has adequate width

ZeroSole can help if plantar pressure is contributing to altered gait that affects toe positioning, but it won't directly treat soft corns between toes.

Can children use ZeroSole?

ZeroSole is designed for adult feet. For children experiencing foot pain, we recommend consulting a paediatric podiatrist for appropriate treatment.

I have corns on the tops of my toes. Will ZeroSole help?

ZeroSole works on the plantar (bottom) surface of the foot, not between toes. For dorsal (tops of toes) corns, we recommend:

  • Consulting a podiatrist for proper debridement
  • Using soft toe protectors to reduce friction
  • Ensuring footwear has adequate depth

Comparison to Other Products

How is ZeroSole different from corn plasters?

Corn plasters (active) use chemicals (usually salicylic acid) to dissolve the hardened skin, temporarily removing some of the corn, but not addressing the underlying pressure. The corn typically returns within weeks. There is also a risk of chemical burns, so these are not generally recommended by professionals (podiatrists), particularly for people with diabetes, poor circulation and older individuals with fragile skin. 

ZeroSole is safe to use and addresses the root cause by redistributing pressure away from the problem area, allowing natural recovery and preventing recurrence. It's a long-term solution rather than a temporary fix.

Is ZeroSole better than filing or pumice stones?

Filing and pumice stones physically remove surface callus but don't address the pressure causing it to form. You'll need to repeat the process regularly as the callus returns.

ZeroSole helps prevent the callus from reforming by eliminating the pressure, reducing or eliminating the need for constant filing. Using ZeroSole in conjunction with filing is a great option if you have a heavy build-up of corns/callus.

How does ZeroSole compare to custom orthotics?

Custom orthotics (£200-500) require professional fitting and provide pressure redistribution across your entire foot based on professional assessment.

ZeroSole (£29.99) offers immediate customisation you can do at home, targeting specific pressure points with precision. It does not contour to the foot to the same degree as a custom orthotic, however is a cost-effective and practical solution for everyday use. 

Should I use ZeroSole instead of seeing a podiatrist?

ZeroSole is designed for self-management of mild to moderate pressure-induced foot problems. You should still see a podiatrist if:

  • This is your first corn or callus (for a proper diagnosis)
  • You have diabetes, rheumatological conditions or circulatory issues
  • The corn appears infected
  • Pain persists after 3-4 weeks of using ZeroSole
  • You have complex foot deformities

Many people successfully use ZeroSole as their primary solution while having occasional professional debridement.

Purchasing & Value

How much does ZeroSole cost?

ZeroSole Reliever insoles are priced at £29.99 per pair.

Is ZeroSole good value for money?

Customer reviews consistently mention that while ZeroSole may seem expensive compared to corn plasters, it provides:

  • 6-8 months of use vs weekly plaster replacements, providing a long term solution
  • Addresses the root cause vs temporary symptom relief
  • Eliminates need for frequent podiatry appointments (£30-60 per visit)

Over a 6-month period, ZeroSole is significantly more cost-effective than repeated plaster purchases or frequent podiatry visits.

What's included with the product?

Each ZeroSole package contains:

  • 1 pair of customisable ZeroSole insoles
  • 5 double-sided adhesive sticker markers (for identifying pressure points)
  • 1 ZeroSole cardboard tray
  • Step-by-step instruction guide (on packaging)

Is there a money-back guarantee?

Yes, we currently offer a full money-back guarantee for ZeroSole purchases made through zero-sole.com, if the product is not for you. 

Contact & Support

What if I need help customising my ZeroSole?

Can I contact a podiatrist with questions?

Yes. ZeroSole has been developed by UK podiatrists, Heather Smart and David Barton. We are available to answer questions about product use, suitability for your condition, and customisation guidance. You can contact us by completing the online contact form, or email us at info@zero-sole.com

Can I contact a podiatrist with questions?

Yes. ZeroSole has been developed by UK podiatrists, Heather Smart and David Barton. We are available to answer questions about product use, suitability for your condition, and customisation guidance. You can contact us by completing the online contact form, or email us at info@zero-sole.com