What to Buy Fitness Gear The 12 Best Walking Shoes for High Arches of 2023 If you have high arches, these shoes will have you walking in comfort—and style. By April Benshosan April Benshosan April Benshosan is a writer, editor, and content strategist covering health, fitness, beauty, and wellness. She graduated with a Master's in Publishing, and her dedication to responsible health journalism has led her to spearhead the nutrition vertical at a major publication before taking on freelancing full-time. health's editorial guidelines Updated on May 18, 2023 Medically reviewed by Adam H. Kaplan, DPM Medically reviewed by Adam H. Kaplan, DPM Adam H. Kaplan, DPM, is a podiatrist and attending physician practicing at Robert Wood Johnson Barnabas Health and Roosevelt Care Center. learn more Fact checked by Richard Scherr Fact checked by Richard Scherr Rich Scherr is an updates strategist and fact checker for Dotdash Meredith brands, including Health and Verywell. He is a seasoned financial and technology journalist who served as editor-in-chief of the Potomac Tech Wire for nearly two decades, and is a regular contributor to the sports pages of The Baltimore Sun. He has also been a news editor for America Online and has contributed to the Associated Press and The Washington Post. health's fact checking process Share this page on Facebook Share this page on Twitter Share this page on Pinterest Email this page In This Article Expand Jump to a Section Our top picks Reviews How We Selected What to Know What to Look for Your Questions, Answered Who We Are We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Learn more. Health / Kristin Kempa If you have high arches, you know how difficult it can be to find a quality walking shoe that actually supports your feet. But finding shoes with support for your arches is crucial. People with high arches are more prone to ankle injuries and foot pain, as well as complications like plantar fasciitis, hairline fractures, inflammation in the ball of the foot, hammertoes, and claw toes. When you have high arches, you might have a hard time fitting into regular shoes, says Miguel Cunha, DPM, a podiatrist and founder of Gotham Footcare in New York City. This is because less of your foot makes contact with the ground when walking or running, which in turn produces less shock absorption and increases the risk of injury. Keep in mind that wearing the wrong shoe, or wearing an old shoe that no longer provides the support your high arches need, can actually contribute to or even exacerbate foot and ankle issues, says Marion Yau, BSc, a London-based podiatrist. To lower your risk of foot-related problems, Dr. Cunha recommends shopping for a shoe that has a roomy toe box, generous ankle support, and a flexible midfoot with ample cushion for shock absorption. After speaking with experts, we researched the best shoes for high arches based on criteria such as cushioning, material, support, and price. Here are our top picks. Our Top Picks Best Unisex: New Balance 574 Sneaker Unisex at Amazon Jump to Review Best Budget: Skechers Gowalk Arch Fit Sneakers at Amazon Jump to Review Best All-Day: Mephisto Rebeca Perf at Amazon Jump to Review Best for Wide Feet: Mizuno Wave Rider 26 Running Shoe at Amazon Jump to Review Best for Supination (or Underpronation): New Balance Fresh Foam X 880v13 at Amazon Jump to Review Best for Plantar Fasciitis: Asics Gel-Kayano 29 at Amazon Jump to Review Best for IT Band Syndrome: Hoka Arahi at Zappos Jump to Review Best for Support: Hoka One One Clifton 9 at Zappos Jump to Review Best Sustainable: Brooks Women's Ghost 15 Running Shoe at Amazon Jump to Review Best for Long Distances: Merrell Moab 2 Ventilator at Amazon Jump to Review Best Unisex New Balance 574 Sneaker Unisex New Balance View On Amazon View On Newbalance.com Why We Like It: They're affordable sneakers that come in many neutral color combos. It’s Worth Noting: The suede material isn't stain resistant and can be hard to clean, so you might want to consider buying a darker-colored sneaker. Dr. Cunha says he often recommends these classic New Balance sneakers for their molded midsoles, which provide excellent arch support. These shoes are designed to support the plantar fascia and provide superior comfort. They boast foam cushioning in the heel, which is important because people with high arches are at a higher risk of heel inflammation and pain. We love the padding around the ankles and in the tongue, plush cushioning on the midsole, and an everyday silhouette that works well with basically everything in your closet. You can choose from multiple color combos, and the 574 line offers a vast range of sizes. Price at time of publication: $85 Product Details: Material: Suede and mesh upperCushioning: ModerateClosure type: Lace-upSize Range: M5.5/W7 – M14/W15.5 Best Budget Skechers Gowalk Arch Fit Sneakers Amazon View On Amazon View On Peltzshoes.com View On Skechers.com Why We Like It: For under $100, you can count on these slip-on sneakers to offer ample arch support, even on long walks. It’s Worth Noting: The color options are limited, and these sneakers don't provide as much cushioning as other options on this list. These budget-friendly slip-ons feature a breathable mesh material, which will keep your feet cool on long walks. Their removable insole helps with shock absorption, and the comfortably cushioned midsole offers solid arch support. These sneakers get major bonus points for being completely machine washable, so you won't even have to think twice about getting the all-white pair. While they don't come in many colorways, the styles that are offered are neutral enough to fit most wardrobes, and they can easily be dressed up or down. Plus, the pull-on style makes these super easy to put on and take off, especially for folks with limited mobility. Overall, the Skechers Go Walk Arch Fit are solid walking shoes—and for under $100, you can't go wrong. Price at time of publication: $90 Product Details: Material: Mesh knitCushioning: Moderate Closure type: Slip-onSize Range: 7 – 13 M; 5 – 11 W Best All-Day Mephisto Rebeca Perf Zappos View On Amazon View On Zappos View On Mephisto.com Why We Like It: Their lightweight feel and quality leather make these the perfect sneaker for all-day wear. It’s Worth Noting: The shoes only come in women’s sizes. With plenty of arch support and a soft footbed for shock absorption, these Mephisto sneakers are a good choice for anyone with high arches. Their ample shock-absorbing cushioning makes them ideal for walking all day long. And for added comfort, these sneakers come with a removable anatomical insole, which helps support the arch and cushion the foot, protecting the metatarsal and heels by reducing pain, callus build-up, and pressure, says Dr. Yau. They come in four neutral colors—black, denim, light gray, and white—that complement most everyday outfits. The shoe is made of nubuck leather, which is why this sneaker is on the pricier side (a pair will run you $219). But the leather's durability means this shoe will go the long run. Just note that these shoes only come in women's sizes. Price at time of publication: $219 Product Details: Material: Nubuck leatherCushioning: ModerateClosure type: Lace-upSize Range: 5 – 11 W Best for Wide Feet Mizuno Wave Rider 26 Running Shoe Amazon View On Amazon View On Mizunousa.com View On Mizunousa.com Why We Like It: The spacious toe box and removable insole make these shoes extra-comfortable for people with wide feet. It’s Worth Noting: The styles and colors are limited. These Mizuno sneakers are recommended by Dr. Cunha for people with wide feet, thanks to their spacious toe box. "It allows your toes to move freely with no restrictions, therefore minimizing discomfort placed on the arch of the foot," Dr. Cunha says. Plus, they come with removable insoles, which you can easily pop out to make your sneaker even more spacious. These sneakers have a cushioned midsole for extra arch support, and the Mizuno Wave plate technology promises stability and comfort by dispersing the energy from foot-to-floor impact. You can rest assured that this style offers proper shock absorption and stability for optimal performance and safety. As a bonus, the mesh material promises a breathable, sock-like fit. Price at time of publication: $140 Product Details: Material: MeshCushioning: Moderate to plushClosure type: Lace-up Size Range: 7 – 16 M; 6 – 12 W Best for Supination (or Underpronation) New Balance Fresh Foam X 880v13 4.9 Dick's Sporting Goods View On Amazon View On Zappos View On Dick's Why We Like It: They're flexible yet supportive sneakers that provide stability for supinators. It’s Worth Noting: These sneakers are simple and supportive but don't necessarily come with any special features. Supination, or when the foot rolls inward after landing, can be caused by high arches and may contribute to foot pain and a higher risk of injury, per a 2019 study in Scientific Reports. Supinators need shoes with soft, flexible midsoles to allow for more foot motion, Dr. Cunha says. The New Balance Fresh Foams fit the bill with their plush and supportive midsole, as well as their rubber outsole that protects your feet during landing. Supinators should also avoid rigid shoes because they can push the foot further to the outside, which may result in injury, Dr. Cunha says. Another feature to avoid? Overly bouncy cushioning, as this could exacerbate the lateral movement of the foot, making it less stable. These New Balance sneakers strike the perfect balance, offering support and comfort simultaneously. Price at time of publication: $140 Product Details: Material: Mesh upperCushioning: ModerateClosure type: Lace-upSize Range: 7 – 16 M; 5 – 13 W Best for Plantar Fasciitis Asics Men's Gel-Kayano 29 Running Shoes Amazon View On Amazon View On Zappos View On Nordstrom Why We Like It: They come in three different width options and provide the perfect heel cushioning and support for people with plantar fasciitis. It’s Worth Noting: Wide sizes are better for cross-training. Plantar fasciitis is a condition where the plantar fascia, a shock-absorbing bowstring-like ligament that connects your heel to toes, collapses and becomes over-stretched, Dr. Cunha says. This often leads to micro-tears in the ligament that can result in weakness, swelling, and irritation of the ligament, according to a 2022 report in StatPearls. Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of heel pain Dr. Cunha adds, so it's important to invest in a shoe with proper heel cushioning and support. The Asics Gel Kayano sneakers boast an external heel counter that maximizes foot stability. Meanwhile, the front of the shoe is designed with a well-cushioned FF Blast Plus footbed and anatomical arch that's firmer and denser on the medial side of the shoe. This helps support and hold the plantar fascia and prevent it from collapsing to minimize fatigue and pain associated with overpronation, which is a common cause of plantar fasciitis, Dr. Cunha says. These supportive shoes come in three widths: medium, wide, and extra-wide, so you're sure to find your perfect fit. Pro tip: If you're planning to cross-train with these Asics, make sure to choose the wide or extra-wide, says Dr. Cunha. A wide toe box allows for comfortable side-to-side movement, especially if your feet tend to pronate, he adds. Price at time of publication: $160 Product Details: Material: Recycled knit Cushioning: PlushClosure type: Lace-upSize Range: 8 – 14 M; 5.5 – 12 W Best for IT Band Syndrome Hoka Arahi Zappos View On Zappos View On Nordstrom View On Hoka.com Why We Like It: The stabilizing cushion provides ankle and knee support, and the design is sleek and modern. It’s Worth Noting: The regular sizing tends to run a bit narrow, so if you have wider feet or if you like your sneakers on the roomy side, opt for the wide width. Iliotibial band (IT) syndrome is often caused by overpronation, which leads to internal rotation of the knee and causes the arches to cave in. That's why Dr. Cunha recommends looking for a shoe with a dense supportive arch to help provide reinforcement and keep the arches from collapsing. "The Hoka Arahi are designed with a firm J-frame midsole that runs along the inner side of the shoe and wraps around the ankle to provide maximum support and minimize overpronation," Dr. Cunha says. Light yet stable, the Hoka Arahi offer balanced cushioning. The sneakers are fairly stiff and flex only near the toe area, which is exactly what you need to support your arches with IT band syndrome. The convenient pull tab makes them easy to get on, and the mesh material allows for plenty of breathability. Bonus: They've earned the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA) Seal of Acceptance, which means that podiatrists have confirmed that these sneakers promote foot health. Price at time of publication: $140 Product Details: Material: MeshCushioning: Moderate to plushClosure type: Lace-upSize Range: 7 – 15 M; 5 – 12 W Best for Support Hoka One One Clifton 9 Hoka View On Zappos View On Nordstrom View On Hoka.com Why We Like It: These Hoka sneakers strike the perfect balance between cushion and stability. It’s Worth Noting: You might need more cushioning if you are a long-distance runner. Topping Dr. Cunha's list of favorite high arches sneakers for their unmatched support, Hoka Clifton 9 sneakers have a full-compression foam midsole that delivers the perfect level of cushioning during your walks. They also have a well-cushioned footbed and anatomical arch support to hold up the arch and prevent it from collapsing, which in turn minimizes fatigue and pain, Dr. Cunha says. This style also keeps your foot stable and allows it to adapt to its natural placement, providing a more organic transition from heel strike through toe off. Plus, the lightweight, breathable knit fabric ensures your foot stays secure without being too restrictive. Whether you're walking around a new city or jogging around the neighborhood, you can count on these Hoka shoes to keep your feet feeling supported and stable. If you run long distances, however, opt for shoes with even more cushioning to minimize impact. Price at time of publication: $145 Product Details: Material: KnitCushioning: Moderate to plushClosure type: Lace-upSize Range: 7 – 16 M; 5 – 12 W Best Sustainable Brooks Women's Ghost 15 Running Shoe 4.8 Brooks View On Amazon View On Zappos View On Nordstrom Why We Like It: They're carbon-neutral sneakers that provide ample heel and ankle support for people with high arches. It’s Worth Noting: Some may find that the laces come untied easily while walking or running. The Brooks Ghost 15 sneaker is proudly carbon-neutral. Brooks makes the shoes with recycled materials (one pair saves about 6.5 plastic bottles from landfills). The brand also uses low-impact dyeing processes and sources materials from factories that use renewable energy. The Ghost 15's carbon emissions clock in at 9.27 kg CO₂eq (or 20.4 pounds), which is 6% less than that of the Ghost 14. To put that into perspective, the average sneaker produces about 30 pounds of carbon dioxide emissions. Brooks sneakers are just as great for your feet as they are for the planet. If you're a supinator with high arches, these shoes are perfect because they have a soft, flexible midsole with superior cushioning for shock absorption, Dr. Cunha says. The sneakers provide proper support to the heel, preventing ankle sprains whether you are walking or running. The heels of the shoes are also a little wider on the bottom to add stability and allow for a smoother landing to toe off transition, he adds. Price at time of publication: $140 Product Details: Material: Recycled materialCushioning: ModerateClosure type: Lace-upSize Range: 7 – 15 M; 5 – 13 W Best for Long Distances Merrell Moab 2 Ventilator Amazon View On Amazon View On Dick's View On Ems.com Why We Like It: The shoes are super durable and feature a supportive foam midsole and extra heel cushioning for shock absorption. It’s Worth Noting: They're a bit on the bulkier side. These shoes from Merrell are strong enough for walking long distances (hello, hikes) and keep your feet comfortable and supported. The lightweight foam midsole offers stability and comfort, while the outsole's all-around grip ensures your feet stay stable with proper traction. What's more, these sneakers feature comfortable cushioning around the heel to absorb shock, keeping your feet stable. You can count on these Merrells to last you a long time. The leather and mesh material promises durability and breathability, making these perfect for both everyday wear and adventures on the trail. If you are strapping these on for a hike, know that the sneakers' tongues are specially designed to keep out debris, so you won't have to worry about rogue pebbles making their way under your arches. Price at time of publication: $110 Product Details: Material: Leather and meshCushioning: ModerateClosure type: Lace-upSize Range: 8.5 – 14 M; 5 – 11 W Best for Cushion Asics Gel Cumulus Asics View On Asics.com Why We Like It: The gel technology offers ample cushioning for impact absorption. It’s Worth Noting: They may not be the best choice for people with narrow feet, as some find that these run a bit wide. Just as their name promises, these Asics sneakers will make you feel like you're walking on a (cumulus) cloud. A favorite for Dr. Cunha and Dr. Yau, this style will cushion your high arches and relieve any signs of strain. These everyday trainers come with lightweight gel cushioning for impact absorption and a responsive rebound, so you'll benefit from both an energized toe off as well as softer landings. "[They have] cushioning and traction, which is helpful for high arches as it can give support which may reduce stress and injury," Dr. Yau says. Plus, they're made with breathable materials that are also Earth-friendly—a minimum of 75% of the shoes' main upper material is made with recycled material. Price at time of publication: $140 Product Details: Material: MeshCushioning: ExtraClosure type: Lace-upSize Range: 6 – 16 M; 5 – 12 W Best Slip-On Rothy's The Original Slip On Sneaker Amazon View On Rothys.com Why We Like It: These stylish slip-ons are easy to put on and take off and are made with recycled water bottles to reduce plastic waste. It’s Worth Noting: These shoes don't stretch much, so make sure to pick your perfect size. And, they don't come in men's sizes. Recommended by Dr. Cunha, these shoes have a roomy toe box and supportive insoles that are made using 100% recycled plastic from water bottles. Their no-fuss, slip-on style makes them super easy to put on and take off, which also means you won't have to worry about laces coming undone during your walk. Another bonus: You won't have to break these in, thanks to their instantly comfortable, seamless construction. Plus, like all Rothy's shoes, the Original Slip-On Sneaker is machine-washable. Just make sure to slip out the insoles and midsoles and let the shoes air dry. Note that these don't come in standard men's sizes, so if you're looking for a larger slip-on sneaker, try the Skechers Go Walk Arch Fit. Price at time of publication: $119 Product Details: Material: Recycled plastic Cushioning: MinimalClosure type: Slip-onSize Range: 5 – 13 W How We Selected the Best Shoes for High Arches To find the best shoes for high arches, we asked podiatrists for their top picks. We also interviewed a running coach and physical therapist assistant for insight on what shoppers with high arches should look for in a quality walking shoe. We selected these shoes based on expert recommendations, keeping in mind a wide range of styles, sizes, and budgets. We also asked the experts for their top sneaker picks for specific conditions, including plantar fasciitis, IT band syndrome, and supination/underpronation. The experts we spoke to include: Miguel Cunha, DPM, a Podiatric Surgery Specialist and founder of Gotham Footcare in Manhattan. Marion Yau, BSc, a podiatrist and nail surgery expert based in London. Alison Staples, an RRCA-certified long-distance run coach and physical therapy assistant. What to Know About Walking Shoes How Walking Shoes Should Fit In general, your walking shoes should feel comfortable—that is, comfortable enough for you to look forward to lacing them on. "If the arch feels uncomfortably high, you should not wear them," Dr. Cunha says. He also notes that improperly fitting shoes are more likely to be designed with no arch than with high arches. A Note on Men and Women's Sizing Shoe brands often market their shoes according to gender because the sizes for men and women differ. Men's shoe sizes tend to be wider and longer than women's. However, you can choose any style or color you want, regardless of the gender the shoe is marketed for—just make sure your shoes fit well and provide the support your arches need. When in doubt, work with your podiatrist or a shoe-fitting specialist, and make sure to try on many different brands and styles to find the best fit. What to Look for in Shoes With High Arches High arches don't provide enough shock absorption on their own, so you should look for walking shoes with soft, flexible midsoles and increased sole and cushioning, Dr. Cunha says. These types of shoes will have extra rubber incorporated into the sole compared to other walking shoes, which translates to a smoother and bouncier gait. Soft, flexible midsoles are great because they allow for more foot motion. Shoes should have a rigid shank (in other words, you shouldn't be able to bend them in half), but Dr. Cunha recommends steering clear of overly rigid shoes as they can push the foot to the outside, which may result in injury. You’ll also want to avoid overly bouncy cushioing because it won't provide enough stability. Another tip: Look for padding around the ankle for extra foot support as well as a spacious toe box so the toes move freely, Staples says. The Best Materials for Walking Shoes You'll notice that the majority of the walking shoes on this list are mesh, which is usually made of polyester. According to Staples, polyester is the best material for walking shoes because it's flexible, soft, and doesn’t easily absorb moisture. Rayon is also a good option because it provides shoe breathability. Last but not least, lycra is another great material for walking shoes because it's strong, flexible, and lightweight, Staples says. How Much You Can Expect to Pay for Walking Shoes The price of walking shoes usually depends on the brand and features of the shoe. The walking shoes on this list range from $90 to $160, with Sketchers being the most budget-friendly and Mephisto being the priciest. Your Questions, Answered What are the benefits of shoes made for high arches? Wearing a shoe with high arch support—or using an orthotic to support your arches—helps alleviate pressure by distributing pressure through the foot. "Shoes with high arches are specifically designed to absorb shock, sweat, and impact," Staples says. Walking shoes made for high arches prioritize shock absorption, so they'll have flexible midsoles with extra cushioning. People with high arches need extra shock absorption because less of their foot hits the ground when they walk or run, so a cushioned shoe can help prevent foot-related injuries, Dr. Cunha says. People with high arches are more prone to dealing with arch inflexibility or stiffness, ankle pain, a tight Achilles tendon, discomfort in the ball and heel, or painful corns and calluses. Why should you consider your arches when buying walking shoes? Simply put, your arches dictate how much support your shoe should provide. Wearing unsupportive shoes may lead to problems such as lowered performance, discomfort such as in plantar fasciitis and runner’s knee, injuries, and even early-onset arthritis, Dr. Cunha says. "On the other hand (or other foot, pun intended), shoes designed to compensate for the impact of your feet can help prevent injuries and improve structural alignment and performance," he says. To determine your foot type, look at the soles of a pair of worn-in shoes. The wear patterns illustrate where you tend to accumulate pressure when you walk, and certain foot types are more prone to specific types of foot discomfort and foot-related injuries. For example, people who have outer knee pain or frequent ankle sprains tend to be supinators, Dr. Cunha says, since their feet roll outward. People who pronate, or whose feet roll inward, are likely to have plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendonitis, shin splints, or inner knee pain. There are three wear patterns to look for in your shoes: Supinator pattern: If your shoe is worn out in the top outer edge, then you’re a supinator (also known as an underpronator). This foot type needs cushioning sneakers for shock absorption, Dr. Cunha says.Neutral pattern: If your shoes are evenly worn, then you are neutral and have an average gait with equal weight distribution across the foot. This foot type needs moderate-stability sneakers, which offer a balance of cushioning and support. Pronator pattern: If you notice that your shoes have the top inner edge worn, then you’re a pronator. This foot type needs motion-control or high-stability sneakers to keep your feet better aligned with your legs, Dr. Cunha says. How long do walking shoes last? Your shoes' shelf life depends on how often you wear them. You might need to replace your walking shoes every three months if you wear them every day, or until excessive wearing is noted on the tread of the shoe, Staples says. Who We Are April Benshosan is a health journalist and editor who's interviewed countless doctors and other medical professionals throughout her career. Her work highlights her passion for arming people with the information they need to make informed decisions about their health. Was this page helpful? Thanks for your feedback! Tell us why! Other Submit 5 Sources Health.com uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read our editorial process to learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy. Cleveland Clinic. High arch feet (Cavus foot): what is it, symptoms, causes & treatment. Zhao X, Tsujimoto T, Kim B, Tanaka K. Association of arch height with ankle muscle strength and physical performance in adult men. Biol Sport. 2017;34(2):119-126. doi:10.5114/biolsport.2017.64585 Woźniacka R, Oleksy Ł, Jankowicz-Szymańska A, Mika A, Kielnar R, Stolarczyk A. The association between high-arched feet, plantar pressure distribution and body posture in young women. Sci Rep. 2019;9:17187. doi:10.1038/s41598-019-53459-w Buchanan BK, Kushner D. Plantar fasciitis. In: StatPearls. StatPearls Publishing; 2023. Footwear’s (Carbon) footprint. MIT News | Massachusetts Institute of Technology.