The instep of the foot is the area between the ball of the foot and ankle. Knowing if you have a low or high instep will help you determine if you need arch support or not. REI employees can measure this for you. WELTED CUFFS It’s more hygienic, especially if you are using rental shoes. Our feet are warm, sweaty, breeding grounds for microbes and fungi. If one – or one of the other million people who have worn the hire shoes you are using – have a dermatological condition or a fungal infection, then there is certainly a possibility that it could be passed on. Sharing is caring, but when it comes to foot fungus, I think you’re better off keeping that to yourself. An insole is a removable sole you can put in your shoes or boots. Insoles can help provide comfort and warmth, and also act as a deodorizer. Insoles can also help expand the life of your boots. Insoles can even assist with common foot conditions such as plantar fasciitis, structural misalignment, and over-pronation. Learn more here. A removable sole of a shoe that mountaineers often use for comfort or warmth. Insoles can also help treat several foot conditions including plantar fasciitis. LINER