# Comfort-Focused Cork Insoles These Inserts Make It Easier to Wear Shoes Without Socks By Katherine Pendrill | Published 2015-09-21 | Fashion Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/cork-insoles References: [kickstarter](https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/742620191/honey-soles-transform-your-shoes-forget-the-socks?ref=category) & [honeysoles.co](http://www.honeysoles.co) A New York-based company recently launched a [Kickstarter](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/soccer-socks) campaign for a line of comfortable cork insoles that make it easier to wear shoes without socks. For many consumers, going without socks means ending up with sore feet and smelly shoes. These cork inserts are designed to make it more comfortable for consumers to go sock-free. ‘[Honey Soles](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/kane-footwear-5)’ are specially designed inserts that are made from [natural cork](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/cork-box). Cork is an ideal material because it wicks away sweat, thereby preventing bacteria from building up inside the wearer’s shoes. The cork insoles also feature a unique design that protects and supports the wearer’s foot from the impact of hard surfaces. The clever design makes it more comfortable for consumers to wear their favorite shoes without socks. The specially designed inserts are ideal for those who spend a significant amount of time on their feet. ## Trend Insights (Trend Hunter) - Score: 2.2/10 - Popularity: 39% | Activity: 20% | Freshness: 8% - Audience gender: 50% men, 50% women - Primary generations: Millennial, Gen X - Top markets: North America, Europe, Asia ## Categories [Trend Hunter](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends) > [Fashion](https://www.trendhunter.com/fashion) > [Shoes](https://www.trendhunter.com/shoes) ## Key Themes ### Key Themes Behind This Trend - **Comfort-focused Cork Insoles:** Cork insoles that provide comfort and prevent foot odor when going sock-free are in high demand. - **Sweat-wicking Shoe Inserts:** There is a growing trend for shoe inserts made from materials that wick away sweat and prevent bacteria build-up. - **Sustainable Shoe Accessories:** Consumers are increasingly looking for eco-friendly and natural materials in shoe accessories like cork insoles. ### Where This Applies - **Footwear:** The footwear industry can capitalize on the rising demand for comfort-focused shoe accessories like cork insoles. - **Athletic Shoe Market:** Athletic shoe manufacturers can tap into the trend of sweat-wicking shoe inserts for added comfort and performance. - **Eco-friendly Products:** The eco-friendly products industry has opportunities to expand its offerings by incorporating sustainable materials in shoe accessories like cork insoles. ## Related on Trend Hunter - [Customizable Shoe Insoles](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/ecodasher-insole.md) - [Upcycled Cork Sneakers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/sole-jasper-chukka.md) - [High-Performance Sock Brands](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/performance-sock-brand.md) - [Comfortable Stylish Heel Designs](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/inez.md) - [Modular Mix-and-Match Footwear](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/commbi.md) - [Advanced Ionized Silver Socks](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/allday-silver-socks.md) - [Innovative Foot Care Products](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/barefoot-scientist.md) - [Merino Wool Sock Sneakers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/uynner-hero-shoes.md) - [Fruity Herb-Powered Shoe Fresheners](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/boot-bananas.md)