Cycling Orthotics Perth | Custom Cycling Insoles at Star Physio
Introduction
Cycling orthotics are designed specifically for the unique demands of the pedal stroke. At Star Physio WA, our Cycling Orthotics Perth service integrates podiatry, physiotherapy and bikefit expertise to optimise comfort, reduce foot pain and improve power transfer.
If you experience:
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Foot numbness while riding
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Burning or “hot spots” in the forefoot
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Neuroma or metatarsalgia pain
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Cramping in tight cycling shoes
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Poor cleat stability or power transfer
A cycling-specific orthotic assessment may help.
Book an appointment with Julie, our physiotherapist and podiatrist, to determine whether custom cycling orthotics are appropriate for you.
Why Standard Orthotics Don’t Work for Cycling
The foot was designed for walking and running — not cycling.
Walking and running require pronation for shock absorption followed by supination for propulsion. Cycling is different. The foot remains fixed within a stiff shoe and loads primarily through the forefoot under repetitive power.
As cycling shoes have become stiffer and ride distances longer, high forefoot pressure has become a common cause of:
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Hot spots
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Numbness
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Neuroma pain
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Reduced power transfer
Traditional orthotics designed for walking or running often do not address these cycling-specific demands.
How Cycling Orthotics Improve the Foot–Pedal Interface
Effective cycling orthotics aim to:
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Stabilise the rearfoot and arch under load
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Reduce midfoot “buckling”
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Spread forefoot pressure
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Improve foot-shoe contact
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Enhance power transfer
By supporting the entire foot — not just the forefoot — cycling orthotics create a more stable platform for pedalling efficiency.
Custom Cycling Orthotics – 3D Prescription
For cyclists with more complex issues, we offer fully custom cycling orthotics prescribed by a podiatrist.
Your assessment includes:
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Foot posture and mobility examination
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Pain-specific modification planning
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3D foot scanning
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Integration with your cycling shoe
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Cleat and bikefit considerations
Each device is customised to your preferred cycling shoe to optimise fit and performance.
Cobra9 SemiPro Cycling Orthotics
Star Physio is proud to be the exclusive partner of Cobra9 cycling orthotics in Western Australia.
Designed by cyclists for cyclists, Cobra9 SemiPro devices are:
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Lightweight (carbon fibre core)
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Thin (approximately 1mm carbon shell)
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Semi-rigid for optimal support
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Built specifically for cycling shoes
These devices are ideal for cyclists seeking improved comfort and stability without the bulk of traditional orthotics.
Cost: $150
May attract a private health rebate if prescribed as part of podiatry treatment.
Which Arch Profile Is Suitable?
At Star Physio WA, we carry the full Cobra9 test fleet and can trial different profiles during your bikefit.
Low Arch (Black) – Flat, rigid feet
Medium Arch (Red) – Flexible low arch or neutral arch
High Arch (Blue) – High arch or flexible medium arch
For more complex cases, fully custom cycling orthotics may be recommended.
Integrated with Professional Bikefit Perth
Cycling orthotics are most effective when combined with:
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Cleat alignment assessment
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Saddle pressure mapping
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Foot pressure analysis
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Lower limb biomechanics review
We integrate orthotic prescription within our Professional Bikefit Perth service to ensure the entire lower limb system works together.
Who May Benefit from Cycling Orthotics?
Cycling orthotics may benefit riders who experience:
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Foot pain or numbness
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Forefoot burning
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Neuroma symptoms
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Recurrent knee pain linked to foot position
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Loss of power stability under load
They are suitable for road cyclists, triathletes, gravel riders and mountain bikers.
