Why SOLESTAR?
What makes SOLESTAR cycling insoles unique?
There is a simple answer to this question. SOLESTAR insoles are based on a completely new concept which is in contrast to the way existing insoles are designed. SOLESTAR insoles are based purely on the needs of the foot in cycling. Why we have come up with an approach and design that contradicts all existing insole concepts for cyclists, warrants an explanation.
The three main points of the design:
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Maximum stabilization of the rear foot: A strong medial support at the arch blocks pronation (breaking in of the foot) at the rear foot. It thereby supports the rear tibial muscle (musculus tibialis posterior).
- Simultaneous stabilization of the forefoot: A special lateral counter-support blocks supination at the forefoot. This supports the long fibular muscle (musculus peroneus longus).
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Lowering of the metatarsophalangeal joint #1: The reduction in distance to the pedal axis increases the power transfer.
As a result the foot stays continuously in neutral zero position. We call this setup the SOLESTAR Stabilization-Delta.
With SOLESTAR there is no difference between foot types
No foot is like the other. After thousands of insole fittings with riders of all levels, we know this better than most. But, and this is most essential, when it comes to cycling, the optimum position for cycling for all feet is identical! The reason for this is that there is one position where the rider receives his/her most stable base and his/her optimum body statics: the neutral zero position.
How the SOLESTAR principle works
An important difference in the movement pattern in cycling compared to other activities, is that the rider is kept within a closed system. The foot is permanently connected to the pedal, the pelvis fixed on the saddle. Within this system the SOLESTAR insole supports the foot constantly.
Unlike walking or running, the foot in cycling does not need the natural roll from heel to toe nor its dampening ability. To the contrary: It is important to supply a strong core within the insole that can hold the natural desire of the foot to pronate and supinate under pressure. Therefore, the core within SOLESTAR insoles allow for the foot to stay parallel to the pedal during the pedaling cycle.
Working Principle SOLESTAR
SOLESTAR in bikefitting
SOLESTAR insoles are sold via numerous certified sales partners in 25 countries worldwide. Some samples from their daily practice show the result that you can achieve with SOLESTAR insoles. The examples are real cases.
1- Insole pressure measurement (by SR Sport, Slovenia)
On the left picture without SOLESTAR (click to enlarge) it can be seen, that the pressure distribution is not equal on both sides. While the pressure distribution is already pretty good with the right foot, the left has a high pressure point at the big toe and a large pressure center (black lines).
On the second picture (now with SOLESTAR) the center of the pressure is now also centrally positioned over the cleat. The big toe has been relieved and the pressure point is not existent any more.
(click on pictures to enlarge)
2- Saddle pressure measurement (by Bikesolutions, Belgium)
The top picture shows the saddle pressure measurement without SOLESTAR insoles. In the other picture (with SOLESTAR) it becomes evident, that the pressure distribution is more balanced and the pressure points have subsided. The right and left side are now more balanced out and the pelvic rotation is minimized (red bars).
(click to see before and after)
3- Path measurement at the knee (by Sykkelstasjonen, Norway)
Measuring the knee axis in relation to the bicycle frame. In the upper picture it is easy to see how the knee bends in and does not produce a straight knee as when pedaling.
Below (with SOLESTAR) the knee axis is straightened and almost parallel to the frame which allows for a higher power output.
(click to see before and after)
