The Bottom Line: Deal or dud?

Dr. Scholl’s Custom Fit Orthotic Inserts pricey but a deal

A pair of Dr. Scholl's custom fit orthotic inserts.

The Product: Dr. Scholl’s Custom Fit Orthotic Inserts

The Pitch: The Dr. Scholl’s Custom Fit Kiosk uses “FootMapping” technology to gather different measurements of your feet and recommend the Custom Fit Orthotic Inserts that are right for you. The machine uses more than 2,000 pressure sensors to create your unique footmap, identify your arch type, foot length, and pressure points in an effort to stabilize arches and provide immediate and all-day comfort for tired, achy feet.

The Price: $49.96 at Walmart. Also available at area Meijer stores.

The Bottom Line: Deal. I can’t call this one a dud, because it does soothe and support as promised. However, I’m not convinced these inserts are worth the near-$50 price tag or any better than some of the less expensive options. I love ballerina flats, but have trouble standing and walking in them for long periods because of my low arches, so I use inserts. I’ve tried quite a few brands and different fits, and I didn’t notice a difference between the costly custom fits and the $10 gel insoles I normally wear.

So you’ve got your eye on a new cleaning product that promises to rid your home of all things gross or a new nail polish that pledges to make your fingernails as tough as, well, nails. The pitch is perfect. The price is in your budget. But does it work? Consumers always want to know, so let us tell you: We’ll try it before you buy it. The Bottom Line will highlight some of the newest and trendiest items and tell you whether it’s a deal or dud. Got a product in mind? Contact Blade reporter RoNeisha Mullen at rmullen@theblade.com or 419-724-6133.