Whether you’re a runner or a walker or you work a job that keeps you on your feet all day, you need a shoe that can go the distance. Here are a few of our recommendations for the best walking, running, and everyday shoes for people with high arches. When we spoke with holistic podiatrist Robert Kornfeld, DPM, he explained that high arches are defined by an excessively high angle between the forefoot (ball) and rearfoot (heel). This shortened angle can cause a few problems, including occasional pain, ankle instability, and increased risk of sprains. “The majority of high-arched patients have a more rigid structure to their feet,” says Kornfeld. “Rigid-type feet are generally less capable of absorbing stresses, as it’s difficult for the foot to share and properly distribute weight.” Shock absorption: “Since a rigid foot does not absorb shock well, a well-cushioned shoe is essential to serve as a shock-absorbing interface between the foot and the ground,” Kornfeld adds. In other words, cushion is key. Flexibility: “It’s also helpful for these patients to avoid very rigid shoes since they can cause overuse of the calf muscles and can lead to Achilles tendinitis and plantar fasciitis,” he says. Instead, go for something a bit more flexible. Other perks include super-responsive cushioning, which responds to your weight, gait, and speed to reduce shock, reducing the impact on your joints. Although you’ll only find two colorways—fully black or white down to the slip-resistant outsole—the design comes in narrow, wide, and regular options. Also, some reviewers warn that this shoe runs slightly small. This supportive walking shoe is great for those who are covering a lot of ground. In fact, there are several reviews from mail carriers who praise this shoe—including one USPS worker who says, “These shoes are a game-changer for my feet!! There is no ‘breaking in’ or ‘getting used to’ a new pair of shoes. My feet aren’t hurting and actually still feel good at the end of a 10-12hr day.” These are also some of the best walking shoes for bunions thanks to the wide toe box. Although these are not the most sustainable option, Brooks is committed to improving their sustainability by making science-backed changes such as moving to 100% recycled polyester in all footwear by 2023. The company has also created an actionable plan to achieve net zero carbon emissions by 2040. The newest model is the brand’s lightest variation yet, but it still packs generous cushioning per our expert’s recommendation. Along with advanced rear support, or cushioning in the heel, the shoe offers maximum shock absorption to keep your landings soft and takeoff smooth. Expect flexibility with stability and built-in guidance that keeps your gait efficient. One runner says, “I’m on my fourth-generation pair of Gel- Kayano, and these are by far the best ones. They are lightweight and comfortable right out of the box.” Another praises the ankle support: “My shoes make my ankles feel secure and supported. I feel like I’m running on clouds!” This model is also the Kayano’s lightest iteration yet. On the downside, they are a bit narrow, so anyone prone to toe pain or dealing with bunions might want to consider the wider model of these shoes. (Some reviewers also suggest ordering a half-size up.) While 90% of ASICS’ new 2021 and 2022 running shoes are made from sustainable materials, the Gel Kayano 29 is not one of these more sustainable options. Most reviews are from people who have been wearing iterations of this shoe for years. Many praise the supportive heel cup and roomy toe box for long days on your feet. On the negative side, a few folks complain that their size is always sold out or that there aren’t enough color options. It’s also the most expensive shoe on this list. The 990v5 Core model is a collaboration with MADE U.S. and contains a domestic value of 70% or more. While these shoes are not made of fully sustainable materials, New Balance has worked with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals to develop a framework and is taking actionable steps toward a more sustainable future. While they’re definitely a chunkier shoe, reviewers say they are lighter than previous models. One person writes, “I use this shoe for power walking/lite running, and it has been great! I love the cushion without being too soft and the fact that it is lightweight.” With over 2,000 reviews on the Hoka website, these have a 4.6 out of 5 rating overall. On the downside, some folks say the Clifton 8 is not very breathable (even with the mesh cover), and can be a bit stiff. Hoka also has a mission for sustainability, and 90% of the brand’s 2021 footwear used at least one recycled, renewable, regenerative, or natural material. Just note that while they’re revered for their comfort, they’re not the most supportive shoe on this list and are more flexible than they are sturdy. They do have a high-top option, though, which provides a bit more ankle support, if that’s a concern for you. And if they don’t work out, Allbirds also has a no-questions-asked return policy where lightly worn shoes are donated to Soles4Souls, a nonprofit that helps provide unwanted shoes and clothing to those in need. One friend who is on her second pair says it’s a great shoe for high arches and plantar fasciitis. She walks and runs in them regularly and says, “Tons of arch support—almost too much at first! But they helped me majorly with my plantar fasciitis.” Based on reviews, they are even a popular pick for people who are on their feet all day. Nike is taking steps toward zero carbon and zero waste with their Move To Zero movement, with additional efforts in motion for circularity, climate control, and sustainability. This was another crowd-sourced pick among a few high-arched friends who say the arch support makes Stan Smiths the most supportive casual shoe they’ve found. There are also thousands of positive reviews online for these shoes, but a few tips too: Most people warn that they run large, so consider sizing down a half size when you order. The design runs wider, which could be welcome news or another reason to size down (depending on the shape of your foot). Lastly, the tongue on these shoes is pretty large, and a few reviewers warn that it rubbed on their ankle a bit while they broke in. Reviewers with plantar fasciitis also rave about this shoe. One notes, “I wear them at work and I’m on my feet for at least 8-hours straight. I FINALLY have no foot pain (plantar fasciitis) and can actually still go for a walk after work!” We also love that Brooks makes a significant effort to use sustainably sourced and recycled materials in their designs. In fact, the Ghost 14 is the brand’s first completely carbon-neutral shoe, and the company aims to achieve net zero carbon emissions by 2040. One online shopper says, “I have very high arches. I have a lot of foot pain, especially if I try to wear shoes that flatten out my foot. I joked with my daughter that it is like wearing a bra for your arch! Even wearing them for hours shopping I am still free of foot pain.” While this is a neutral, budget-friendly pick with solid arch support, a few reviewers say they don’t hold up very well over time and warn that it’s not Vionic’s most supportive shoe. So if you’re looking to really ramp up your arch support, you might consider the Walker Classic sneakers instead, which are more substantial (but also more expensive). Reviewers with plantar fasciitis have great things to say about the cushion and support of these shoes. One person who just ordered their third pair of Cloves raves, “I’m obsessed. These shoes cushion my feet for my whole 12-hour shift. No more heel and arch pain.” Just note that most people recommend sizing up a half-size, so that’s something to consider if you’re in between sizes or prefer a more wide toe box. Cove partners with nonprofit sustainability organizations like Soles4Souls, and all materials used are 100% cruelty-free and vegan. With a solid 4.9 out of 5 rating, it’s hard to find a negative review of these shoes—but a few do say they are not a fan of the wipe-clean material.
