From Barefoot to Elite Part II: Insoles & The NBA

Why NBA pros swear by custom insoles—and why you should too.

Ever watched NBA players effortlessly glide, leap, and land gracefully on the court, game after game? It’s tempting to think it’s all natural talent and sure, genetics, but there’s another secret at play: what's under their feet.

The unseen MVP of the NBA.

Here’s a stat you might not know: about 80% of NBA players use custom insoles. Why? Because when you’re sprinting, jumping, pivoting, and changing direction at elite levels, basic insoles simply won’t cut it. Think of custom insoles as the behind-the-scenes MVP: they improve balance, enhance vertical leap, and dramatically reduce injury risk.

How custom insoles took over the league.

Back in the day, athletes stuffed their sneakers with generic, off-the-shelf insoles and hoped for the best (like buying clothes without trying them on—fingers crossed). But professional sports is a science now, and personalized footwear has emerged as a critical competitive edge. Custom insoles are precision-engineered, matching the exact contours and biomechanics of each player's feet, providing just the right amount of cushioning and support exactly where they need it.

The Groov advantage for all.

You might not be dunking on NBA rims (yet), but your feet deserve the same care and precision. Groov’s Plush model takes performance insoles to the next level. With AI-driven 3D scans, Groov creates custom insoles that offer you NBA-level comfort and stability, perfectly tailored to your own unique foot structure.

Because let’s be real: whether you’re hitting the court at your local gym or just jogging around the block, your performance starts from the ground up.

Game on,
Anita
Resident Runner & Groover

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