The 12 Best Walking Shoes for High Arches, According to Podiatrists
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If you have high arches, finding the most supportive walking shoes for your foot shape can help support you with every step you take — and prevent serious discomfort. “Typically, high arches cause pain,” says explains London-based celebrity podiatrist Marion Yau. “As a result, the heel and toes of your foot are under extra stress since the sole of your foot doesn’t provide much support. Runners and walkers may find it difficult to cope with the added stress.” That’s why it’s essential to own walking shoes that are specifically designed with arch and joint support in mind, with key features like generous cushioning, supportive insoles, and a roomy toe box.
High arches are the opposite of flat feet — those with high arches have more lift in the middle of their foot. “Our foot’s arch plays an important role in running and walking, maintaining balance, absorbing shock, and adapting to different surfaces,” explains Yau, adding that “there are some people who are born with high arches in their feet, and there are others who have medical conditions that contribute to their high arches.”
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To determine whether or not you have high arches, Yau suggests a handy at-home test: “Using a piece of paper or concrete, wet your feet and stand on the surface,” she says. “Look at the imprint left behind after you move your feet. An individual with high arches will only see an imprint of their heel and front of their foot.” If that’s your result, you’re far from alone — the Cleveland Clinic estimates that about 20 percent of adults have high-arched feet.
High arches can make you more prone to a range of health conditions, according to Yau, such as metatarsalgia, plantar fasciitis, hammertoes, bunions, ankle instability, corns, or calluses. You may also have a tendency to supinate, which means that you place more weight on the outside of your foot while walking. For these reasons, we’ve included the best shoes for plantar fasciitis, the best shoes for bunions, and the best ankle support shoes on our list for all-around support for multiple concerns.
To find the best walking shoes for high arches, we consulted top experts. In addition to Yau, we also interviewed Dr. Emily Spichal, a podiatrist and founder of Naboso, as well as Dr. Jacqueline Sutera, a podiatrist and member of the Vionic Innovation Lab.
Editors’ Choice: Top 3 Walking Shoes for High Arches of 2024
Footwear News Shop editors routinely research the best shoes for the range of common foot types and concerns by enlisting invaluable podiatrist insight, riding the pulse of innovative shoe releases, and even learning first-hand as we treat pesky strain in our own high-arched feet. Our selections in this roundup of the best walking shoes for high arches is a result of comprehensive footwear market research, which includes pinpointing top brands that offer the best underfoot cushioning, arch support, and comfortable materials, as well as durable outsole traction and responsive midsoles that allow optimal energy return, no matter the terrain you roam.
While walking shoes for high arches require key supportive elements, they also come in a variety of styles that serve different functions. For this reason, our editors curated our top three options that represent a range of price points, style preferences, and comfort features. Each sneaker was rated on a checklist of essential criteria, such as arch support, cushioned comfort, durability, and versatile style.
- Nike Motiva Walking Shoes: Nike’s Motiva shoe comes highly recommended by one Footwear News Shop editor with high arches for its plush cushioning support and strain relief. Its cool, modern design gives more flair than a typical performance sneaker, all while boasting key elements that make for a superb walking shoe for high arches, such as a rocker heel, sock-absorption technology, padded collar, and a wide, roomy fit.
- Salomon Xt-6 Sneakers: The Salomon Xt-6 sneakers are a stylish, ultra-supportive walking sneaker for those with high arches. Durable traction provides stable footing on slick surfaces (they are technically trail-running shoes), while a deep heel cup and contoured insole hug the foot. One Footwear News editor with high arches and frequent bouts of plantar fasciitis swears by them.
- adidas Ultraboost 5X Sneakers: These top adidas walking shoes pair arch support with impressive energy return. Cushioned but not too heavy, the new Ultraboost 5X sneakers are an excellent choice for those who favor power walks, or someone in need of an everyday sneaker for both walking and running.
Colorways: Black, red, blue, white, pink, and more
Materials: Recycled plastic, rubber
Special features: Comfortgroove outsole; 1/2-inner sleeve; waterfall collar
Editor testing and review notes: “Upon a long walk with my dog wearing the Motiva shoes, I realized that for the first time in a long time, I didn’t experience a moment of discomfort while maintaining stability on the varying terrains. My podiatrist explained that the Motiva is a great walking shoe for my feet for its higher heel-to-toe drop and rocker bottom, which prevents any strain on my high arches, especially as a fast-walking heel striker. (Thanks to years of wearing fancy dress shoes on a daily basis, I suffer from mild plantar fasciitis.) Though I have borderline neutral-width feet, I was also happy with the roomy toe box that’s less common in Nike sneaker styles.” — Footwear News Director of Commerce Adam Mansuroglu
What testers say: “I’ve owned what feels like hundreds of Nike shoes and these by far are the best for overall design and maximum comfort! In my opinion everyone should try out these incredible shoes. Whoever designed these shoes deserves an award.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $110
Colorways: Over 15 available
Materials: EVA cushioning, TPU film and mesh upper, high-traction Contagrip tread
Special features: Toggle lacing system; Agile Chassis System provides extra stability
One major pro to the Salomon Xt-6 sneakers is their durability. The outsole provides traction to take you from rocky trails to slick pavement safely, while reinforcement near the toe keeps your feet protected on rough hikes.
Editor testing and review notes: “My Salomon sneakers are the best investment I’ve made for my foot health, hands down. I was initially drawn to the ‘gorpcore’ style of the shoes, but it’s the comfort that keeps me coming back. I have such high arches that my midfoot rarely makes contact with the insole of the shoe, however these sneakers have a deep heel cup that allows my entire foot to fall in place. They’ve become my go to walking shoes when I’m embarking on a long stroll in New York City, and they’re my go-to shoes for relief when I’m dealing with a plantar fasciitis flare up.” — Senior Lifestyle and Beauty Commerce Editor Claire Sullivan
Price upon publish date of this article: $200
Colorways: Over 13 available
Materials: Textile upper, light BOOST midsole, Continental Rubber outsole
Special features: Created with at least 20% recycled materials
Editor testing and review notes: “Trusty heel-to-toe comfort truly sets adidas’ Ultraboost 5X sneakers apart from previous pairs. After a couple of steps in these sneakers, the emphasis on energy return was evident, and that’s all thanks to the airy and responsive Light BOOST midsole. I even wore the Ultraboost 5X sneakers to the gym in place of my typical adidas workout shoes, spending time on the stair climber and rowing machine, only to realize they’re just as equipped to take on all types of daily exercises — not just running.” — Footwear News contributor Yoni Yardeni
Price upon publish date of this article: $180
Colorways: Four available
Materials: Mesh upper with synthetic overlay; Acteva Lite midsole cushioning
Special features: Stability web outsole delivers improved arch support
Editor testing and review notes: “As a longtime fashion editor, walking shoes might not seem like the most exciting sneaker category, but New Balance changed the game. The resurgence of textural Y2K-era running shoes as modern lifestyle sneakers deliver the support my arches need with a look that adds a sporty flair to workwear and compliments weekend outfits. Truthfully, most New Balance styles feel great for my arches, however, the 1906R’s superb stability with support from a great heel cup and ample midsole cushioning make daily moves feel comfortable without any end-of-day aches. In short, they look cool and feel amazing.” — Mansuroglu
Price upon publish date of this article: $154.99
Colorways: Gray, black, and blue
Materials:
Special features
Price upon publish date of this article: $134.99
Colorways: 13 women’s options, 12 men’s options
Materials: Knit upper, rubber outsole
Special features: Puregel technology for shock absorption, foam made with 20 percent bio-based materials
The Gel-Nimbus 26 sneakers are wonderful for walking or running, and help to reduce supination as well. They come in a range of bright and neutral colors, and feature reflective details for increased nighttime visibility.
What testers say: “I love the way they hug my feet at just the right spots, and give that extra toe room on the top. Also, I’ve been having some ankle pain, even in my easy runs with my other pair of daily trainers, and these shoes got rid of the pain almost instantly. I love them, and I’ve already run 200 miles in them. Definitely looking forward to logging more miles in them!”
Price upon publish date of this article: $160
Colorways: Over 10 options
Materials: Mesh upper, Dreamstrike+ midsole, Adiwear outsole
Special features: Support Rods improve stability
Editor testing and review notes: “These adidas sneakers are comfortable straight out of the box. The day I unboxed them, I wore them on a six mile walk in New York City and didn’t experience an ounce of rubbing or a single blister. I have very high arches that often cause many sneakers to apply pressure on the top of my feet that gets increasingly painful throughout the day — the Supernova Rise sneakers have a soft, stretchy upper that prevents this from happening. They’re low-profile enough for me to wear them to brunch with a pair of jeans when my plantar fasciitis is flaring up, which is a bonus, too.” — Sullivan
Price upon publish date of this article: $140
Colorways: 17 options for women’s, 16 options for men’s
Materials: Mesh, rubber
Special features: APMA-accepted, breathable mesh, ankle support, recycled materials
What testers say: “They took a few days to break in but now they’re my favorite shoes ever. I am a plus size nurse and am on my feet 10+ hours a day. With these, I have no pain in my feet, knees or back. They run true to size and I would suggest getting standard width as wide is a little too wide in my opinion. I will be buying another pair when these shoes are retired!”
Price upon publish date of this article: $131.95
Colorways: 5 Men’s, 5 Women’s
Materials: Polyester
Special features: Recycled materials, molded sockliner, CloudTec cushioning, external heel counter, 11mm heel-toe drop, stable, breathable
What testers say: “I just bought On Cloudflyer running shoes. They are the most comfortable running shoes I have owned. I have put about 10 miles on them since I bought them and am very happy with my purchase. I tried several different running shoes before I settled on these. They ran about a half size smaller than I usually wear but purchasing a half size larger was just right.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $170
Colorways: 3 men’s options, 3 women’s options
Materials: FibreFlex, Foam
Special features: Lightweight, OOfoam shock-absorbing technology
What testers say: “I’ve had major foot reconstructive surgery following a horrid broken foot, and have been searching for an ultimate comfortable shoe for 6 years. I’m also pending a hip replacement and realized this week that when I wear my Oofos, the impact of my heel hitting the ground does not travel to my hip joint and cause blinding pain when I have on these shoes. Needless to say, I am wearing them every day, inside my house and outside my house. I am so grateful to have discovered them.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $140
Colorways: 14 men’s options, 14 women’s options
Materials: TENCEL™ Lyocell, SweetFoam, TPU, recycled plastic, Merino wool
Special features: Lightweight, breathable, sustainable materials
What testers say: “Bought these for my 85-year-old mother. She loves them. They give her the arch support she needs as well as the comfort you want in a sneaker.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $105
Colorways: 8 women’s options; 4 men’s options
Materials: Mesh, EVA, rubber
Special features: Removable orthotic insert, breathable upper, cushioned outsole, stabilizing technology
What testers say: “Bought these after wasting so much money on orthopedic insoles that still didn’t support my high arches. I’m constantly fighting off plantar fasciitis and these shoes have saved my feet. No break-in time needed, I can walk several miles without any complaints from my feet at all. Loved them so much I bought a pair for my mom and daughter!”
Price upon publish date of this article: $119.95
What to Look for in the Best Walking Shoes for High Arches
Having high arches can lead to a slew of uncomfortable or painful foot conditions, but fortunately, choosing the right footwear can alleviate pain from common problems and discomfort, as well as helping to prevent the development of new conditions. Here are some factors to keep in mind when shopping for walking shoes for high arches, according to podiatrists.
- Arch support insoles: In order to feel comfortable while walking, you need a shoe that supports the shape of your foot. “ I always recommend shoes with arch support and cushion inside,” says Yau. “In addition to stabilizing and supporting the foot, the arch support also provides some comfort. As a result, pressure from the ground is distributed evenly throughout the foot, preventing pressure from being isolated. A foot arch support can ease foot pain as well as arch pain.”
- Cushioned insoles: You should look for walking shoes that are fitted with cushioned insoles, or alternatively add your own supination insoles. “High-arched feet are best treated with supportive, softer and more flexible, lightweight types of soles to accommodate the high arch,” says Dr. Sutera. “Avoid rigid, stiff, and flat shoes. The purpose of insoles and orthotics for those with high-arched feet is to accommodate, absorb shock and cushion.”
- Deep, wide toe box: Since those with high arches can often have hammertoes (toes that point upwards at the joint), they will benefit from walking shoes that can accommodate their toes. “My recommendation is to wear shoes with a deep, wide toe box,” says Yau. “The toe box is located at the front of the shoe, enclosing the toes. By doing so, the hammertoes can be accommodated and pain can be reduced.” The best shoes for wide feet help.
- Heel-toe drop: A slight heel-toe drop (meaning the shoe’s sole is higher at the back than at the front) can also help support those with high arches to walk comfortably. “This means that the heel is thicker than the front of the shoe, unlike a platform or very flat shoe,” Dr. Sutera says. “These tend to be better for those who need more arch support.” But this doesn’t mean you should favor a high-heeled shoe by any means. “ When the heel height is extremely high, the foot can be tipped forward due to the awkward angle caused by high arches,” warns Yau. “A result of this will be pain and deformities in the toes that result from clawing and jamming.”
What Does It Mean to Have High Arches?
The foot arch we’re referring to here is the curve underneath your foot. “High arches are a higher arch than normal,” explains Yau. “On the bottom of the foot, the arch runs from the toes to the heel, and in high-arch foot types the mid part of the foot is raised. Pes cavus is another name for this condition. A high arch is the opposite of a flat foot.”
Having high arches can unfortunately lead to a range of issues. “A high-arched foot is one that is typically more rigid and with restricted mobility in the ankle and hips. This means that a high-arch foot may have a harder time absorbing impact forces and transferring force,” explains functional podiatrist Dr. Emily Splichal.
Choosing the right footwear for high arches is crucial in preventing the development foot conditions. “If you have high arches, you should choose supportive shoes because wearing the wrong type of shoes can cause pain when walking or standing,” says Yau. “Having a high-arch foot can also lead to claw [toes] and hammertoes, as well as calluses on the toes and bottom of the foot, which can lead to ulcers. High arches can also change your foot’s shape, making finding shoes that fit difficult. Foot pain can be exacerbated by wearing shoes that don’t fit.”
How We Chose the Best Walking Shoes for High Arches
For more than 75 years, Footwear News has been the shoe authority. Our coverage spans top industry news, retail trends, head-to-toe fashion, athletic and outdoor analysis, and more. Footwear News’ global network of editors has carefully curated all product selections featured using our expansive brand knowledge and thorough research to find quality, long-lasting items.
In order to select the best walking shoes for high arches, we conducted extensive research into the products currently on the market, as well as sifting through reviews to make sure we only included high-quality shoes that are actually supportive to real people with high arches. We spoke to expert podiatrists Marion Yau, Dr. Emily Splichal and Dr. Jacqueline Sutera to find out what those with high arches need to know when buying walking shoes. Our editors are constantly testing walking shoes for consideration in this article and will continue to update it with new releases and editor-loved favorites. Learn more about us here.
Meet the Experts
Marion Yau is an award-winning celebrity podiatrist based in London, UK. She practices at The Harley Street Foot and Nail Clinic, where she specializes in the use of hot and cold laser therapy to treat fungal nail infections. Yau creates educational content on social media as Miss Foot Fixer. You can find her on YouTube, Instagram, and TikTok.
Dr. Jacqueline Sutera is a surgically trained doctor of podiatric medicine, practicing at City Podiatry in Midtown Manhattan, New York. Dr. Sutera is also a member of the Vionic Innovation Lab, where she helps the brand develop supportive footwear technology designed to enhance foot health.
Dr. Emily Splichal is a functional podiatrist based in Chandler, Arizona, where she runs her Center for Functional and Regenerative Podiatric Medicine. Dr. Spichal is also the founder of performance-driven accessories line Naboso, which carries a range of insoles and other products designed to optimize movement from the bottom up.
Meet the Authors
Iris Goldsztajn is a freelance writer and editor based in London, UK. She is currently the morning editor at Marie Claire, and her work has appeared in the likes of British Vogue, InStyle, Refinery29, Bustle, and many more. As a journalist, Goldsztajn covers a range of topics including fashion, beauty and wellness. She is originally from Paris, France, and has lived in Los Angeles and New York City. Goldsztajn wrote this new version of our guide to the best walking shoes for high arches.
Claire Sullivan is the Senior Beauty and Lifestyle Commerce Editor for Footwear News and WWD. She has over eight years of experience as a writer and editor for national media outlets including Martha Stewart Living, Martha Stewart Weddings, InStyle, and Byrdie. She keeps her finger on the pulse of all things related to beauty and wellness, regularly digging into foot health-related topics. Sullivan, who has high arches and frequent bouts of plantar fasciitis, contributed to this article on the best walking shoes for high arches with her firsthand shoe testing notes and more information on key features to look for in the best pairs for the foot condition.
