From New Zealand to the world - quality, science and care in every step.
Every day, people search for solutions to foot pain, better movement, and reliable arch support orthotic options they can trust. They want to know which orthotics actually work, how they compare, and whether New Zealand orthotics truly offer something different.
We are here to answer these questions while taking you behind the scenes of how Formthotics is made, why it works, and what makes our quality trusted worldwide.
Whether you're a clinician seeking trustworthy treatment options, a patient exploring shoe inserts for arch support or plantar fasciitis, or someone wondering “How do Formthotics compare to other orthotic insoles?” — this article is designed to give you clarity, confidence and real value.
Summary
Formthotics is a global leader in the manufacture and design of prefabricated orthotics, built on 40+ years of research and biomechanical innovation.
Every orthotic is manufactured in Christchurch, New Zealand, with precise quality control and advanced, plant-based materials.
Formthotics provide clinically proven improvements in pain, comfort, mobility and foot function.
Compared with typical insoles, Formthotics deliver a personalised fit, superior support and long-term biomechanical benefits.
Our global network of clinicians trusts Formthotics for consistent outcomes across arch support, foot pain relief, injury prevention and performance.
We Stand on Science: Why Quality Matters More Than Ever
When people search for orthotics or insoles, they’re not just seeking comfort; they’re looking for science-backed solutions. Quality orthotics should do more than cushion; they should improve function, alignment, and long-term mobility.
This is where Formthotics stands apart.
Our orthotics aren’t generic inserts. They’re medical devices engineered using:
decades of clinical research
advanced material innovation
precise 3D-milled manufacturing
real-world testing across millions of users
Formthotics sits at the intersection of science, biomechanics and accessible care, and that’s why clinicians around the world trust them.
Our New Zealand Origin: Where Innovation Meets Craftsmanship
Formthotics began in Christchurch in the late 1970s, created by a sports medicine specialist and a ski boot–fitting specialist who wanted a better way to support natural movement. Their breakthrough invention — a heat-mouldable orthotic that could be customised in minutes — transformed orthotic treatment worldwide. Learn more about the history here.
Today, the same values drive us:
Precision
Every orthotic is made in our Christchurch facility under strict quality controls.
Continuous innovation
Manufacturing, R&D and product development sit side-by-side, ensuring rapid refinement and scientific accuracy.
Sustainability
We are among the few orthotic manufacturers employing plant-based foams, solar energy integration and planet-positive initiatives such as supporting New Zealand’s native bird recovery programmes.
Care in every step
Every pair is made by experts who understand that behind each orthotic is a person who wants pain-free, confident movement. Choosing Formthotics means choosing New Zealand made and designed orthotics underpinned by global quality standards.
How Formthotics Compare to Other Types of Orthotic Insoles
1. Generic insoles vs. Formthotics
Most mass-produced insoles:
use flat, uniform foam
offer limited arch support
compress or deform quickly
do not adapt to individual foot shapes
Formthotics differ through:
heat moulding for a precise anatomical fit
3D-milled Formax™ Foam that flexes with movement
deep heel cupping and arch contouring for meaningful biomechanical support
clinically proven outcomes in pain reduction, muscle activity and load redistribution
2. Custom orthotics vs. Formthotics
Custom orthotics are valuable, but they:
require lab manufacturing
high cost
takes longer to produce, usually taking between 2 and 4 weeks
may be rigid and less adaptable
Formthotics provide:
customisation in minutes, in one clinic session
a personalised fit without lab delays
the ability to remould as needs change
affordable solution
strong clinical evidence for mobility, comfort and pain relief
Made with care in New Zealand. Trusted Worldwide.
Formthotics is now used in more than 50 countries, recommended by:
podiatrists
physiotherapists
sports retailers
professional athletes
Our global partners trust Formthotics because the quality is consistent, the science is strong, and the outcomes speak for themselves.
What started as a local idea in New Zealand has become a world-leading orthotic solution - with Christchurch still at its heart.
Quality That Clinicians Can Trust
Formthotics are designed to support the way clinicians work:
reliable, evidence-backed outcomes
heat-mouldable precision in minutes
adaptable for varied pathologies
durable enough for long-term use
comfortable enough for everyday wear
supported by education, tools and a clinical system
When clinicians recommend Formthotics, they’re recommending a product that stands on research, precision and decades of real-world solutions.
Check out what other clinicians have to say about here.
Why Formthotics are part of quality-driven clinical care
Formthotics are built on scientific evidence and engineered for functional outcomes. The combination of heat-mouldable Formax Foam, contoured design and adaptable densities allows clinicians to tailor support for diverse patient needs.
This enables:
immediate comfort and improved load distribution
reduced heel and forefoot pressure
better neuromotor control and stability
long-term improvements in pain and function
With the Formthotics Medical System and Additions, clinicians can refine alignment, offload sensitive structures and optimise biomechanical performance — all in a single appointment.
Conclusion: Quality You Can Feel in Every Step
From our Christchurch factory to clinics around the world, our commitment to quality is constant. We stand on science, sustainability and craftsmanship — and we’re proud to support clinicians who make a meaningful difference in people’s lives.
Every pair of Formthotics carries our purpose: helping people move better, and for longer.
With Formthotics, a better world is at your feet.
Experience the Difference of NZ-Made Orthotic Quality
Discover how Formthotics are designed, manufactured and clinically supported to help your patients move better, faster — with confidence in every step.