The 12 Best Running Shoes for High Arches, According To a Podiatrist and a Runner
If you’re a runner with high arches, then there are even odds that you’ve been running in the wrong shoes for some time now. And that’s a great way to set yourself up for injuries. So to help our readers find the best running shoes for high arches, we consulted some experts.
When someone has a high arch, their foot tends to be more rigid in nature because of the anatomy that’s holding up their arch. Miguel Cunha, MD, podiatrist and founder of Gotham Footcare in New York City, tells Spy that high arch runners are vulnerable to a variety of foot injuries.
Today's Top Deals
These SPY-Tested Blink Security Cameras Are Going for Less Than $30 Each Right Now
Yes, It’s Possible To Get AirPods for Less Than $100 — But Hurry, This Deal Won't Last Long
“If you have high arches, you’ll tend to develop pain in three areas: the heel, the ball of the foot, and the outside of the ankle,” says Dr. Cunha. “It’s almost like they’re walking on a tripod and therefore they have a higher tendency to suffer from inversion sprains because their arches are so high that their ankles roll inward.”
Other problems runners with high arches commonly develop are Achilles tendinitis and metatarsalgia, which is when you have pain and inflammation under the ball of the foot.
“High-arched feet may be more susceptible to bone injuries on the outside of the foot, ankle, and leg,” says Jason Karp, PhD, running coach, exercise physiologist and author of 12 books, including Running a Marathon For Dummies.
To help you avoid common foot injuries and undue pain, we’ve put together a guide for buying the best running shoes for high arches. Keep reading for our top product recommendations as well as tips for finding the right footwear for your foot type. Finally, remember that if you’re struggling with chronic pain in your feet, you should make an appointment to see a podiatrist, orthopedist or talk to your primary care physician.
How To Buy Shoes for High Arches
The best running shoes will differ from person to person. Knowing your foot type is a crucial part of the shoe buying process. You can do the ‘wet test’ at home and step in a bucket of water and then step on a piece of paper, like a brown paper shopping bag, and then you’ll be able to see your foot type.
If you’re an overpronator or have a flat arch, then you’ll see the whole foot and the flat arch will appear on the wet footprint.
If you have a neutral foot type, you’ll get that typical “perfect sand print” or footprint that you’ll get in the sand and see part of the arch.
If you have a really high arch or are an underpronator/supinator, you’ll see the print on the outside and the middle of the foot will look carved out in the footprint.
You can also look at your current shoes to determine your foot type. If the sole is worn out in an S-shaped pattern, from the outer heel to the big toe, then you have a neutral foot type. If the soles are worn out more on the inside of the shoe like the heel, then your foot type is likely an overpronator/flat arch. People with high arches (underpronators) will show the most wear and tear on the outside of their shoes.
It might seem obvious, but you need to make sure the running shoe you’re buying will be wider than your forefoot. Trace your foot on a piece of paper and put the shoe over it, suggests Dr. Cunha. Obviously, the tracing of your foot should not be outside the periphery of the shoe; otherwise, your toes will be crammed into the toe box.
There are three types of running shoes: motion-control, neutral and stability:
Motion-control shoes are ideal for pronators, those with flat arches
Neutral/cushioning shoes are for neutral (average) foot types. They are the most bendable shoes and tend to be softer and less structured since these are for normal foot types.
Stability shoes are best for runners with high arches because you need a shoe that has more cushioning for shock absorption. Since the foot is more rigid in nature, you need stability.
When you’re shopping for running shoes for high arches, the sneakers should be comfortable, shock-absorbing and have support for the arches. Look for running shoes that are cushioning/neutral, are comfortable and prioritize responsiveness, suggests Dr. Karp.
The heel counter and ankle collar (back parts of the shoe) should be relatively firm and not able to compress easily when you press on it or squeeze it, says Dr. Cunha. The best running shoes for high arches will have these features and better support your feet so that you don’t develop Achilles tendonitis or ankle sprains.
Runners with high arches should also look for a deep heel cup in the shoe. “That’s important because it maintains the proper foot alignment and helps maintain pressure, releasing the plantar fascia with the heel strike,” says Dr. Cunha.
The Best Running Shoes for Underpronators
If you’re still thinking that running in the wrong shoes isn’t a big deal, know that research found wearing improved footwear helped runners reduce their oxygen consumption during workouts. Yes, that means more comfortable shoes meant an improvement on participants’ run performance.
On top of that, you don’t need to be a podiatrist to know that the wrong shoes make you more vulnerable to common runner’s injuries and pain.
Below, you’ll find our top recommendations for the best running shoes for people with high arches. Please note that we’ve listed the running shoes below in men’s sizes. However, most of these shoes are also available in women’s sizes. In general, the best running shoes for high arches are ideal for both men and women, and so we consider this a unisex guide.
1. New Balance Fresh Foam 1080v11
BEST OVERALL
Zappos is famous for its stellar customer service, and the footwear retailer was happy to point us to the best shoes for high arches. The updated 1080 New Balance running shoe gets high marks for its Fresh Foam cushioning and comfort, which is ideal for underpronators. Reviewers say it feels luxurious and plush. “You want a shoe that’s plush because you want the shoe to be soft enough to accommodate the rigidity of the high arched foot type,” says Dr. Cunha.
Read More: The Most Comfortable Sneakers for 2022
Buy: New Balance Fresh Foam 1080v11 $149.95
2. ASICS GEL-Nimbus 23
RUNNER UP
ASICS uses their FlyteFoam cushioning to help with the impact and provide a smooth transition. Reviewers like that GEL unit in the heel was updated in this model for a softer landing and the inner heel counter helps keep your foot in place. This running shoe for high arches is great for long-distance runners and in particular runners who land heel first. A wider toe box can help those with wider feet.
Buy: ASICS GEL-Nimbus 23 $149.95
3. Brooks Glycerin GTS 19
MOST SUPPORTIVE
The Glycerin 19 features Brooks’ GuideRails support technology to keep runners in their natural motion path while keeping excess movement in check. The newest version of this favorite shoe among runners with high arches features more cushioning and updated materials in the mesh upper part of the shoe.
Remember: any running shoe you put on should feel comfortable right away. “You want a shoe that offers as much durability and protection as possible without sacrificing comfort or flexibility,” suggests Dr. Cunha. And while he didn’t specifically recommend these shoes, we think they’re a great option for runners with high arches in particular.
Buy: Brooks Glycerin GTS 19 for Men $150.00
Buy: Brooks Glycerin GTS 19 for Women $150.00
4. Hoka One One Clifton 8
MOST CUSHIONED
These are among HOKA One One’s most popular running shoes because they are great for any distance with optimum cushioning and support for runners with high arches. The midsole design is engineered to help you run more efficiently. An improvement on the Clifton 7, Hoka’s shoes are known for their cloud-like cushioning that provides a little extra softness where you need it most. Their midsole is made from ultralight foam, and the shoe itself weights next to nothing. Plus, the mesh upper allows for better breathability. If your goal is to find a more cushioned insole that also has cooling benefits, look no further.
Buy: Hoka One One Clifton 7 $129.95
5. Saucony Guide 14 Running Shoes
HONORABLE MENTION
Saucony’s latest Guide running shoe is a great option for runners who seek maximum performance in a stability shoe that’s ideal for daily runs. The brand’s newly formulated PWRRUN foam makes for better responsiveness with a softer feel. The shoe has a snug fit and makes for a “protective ride” said one reviewer. There is some forefront flexibility and it has solid stability in the heel and midfoot.
Buy: Saucony Guide 14 Running Shoes $89.95 (orig. $130.00) 31% OFF
6. Adidas Solarglide 5 Running Shoes
BEST EVERYDAY SHOE
This stylish shoe has a uniquely crafted high-volume midsole and outsole, making it heavier, more stable and more cushioned than its predecessor, the 4. It’s a top pick for high-arched runners thanks to the fact that its removable insole cups your foot on either side. This shoe showcases stability and responsive arch cushioning, making it a sensible choice for underpronators and neutral runners alike.
Buy: Men’s Adidas Solarglide 5 Running Shoes $130.00
7. Saucony Ride 15
BEST UPDATED MODEL
Although the Ride has been around for years, it’s been totally updated with a thicker midsole stack and a cushier insole that’s totally different from past, firmer models. This added cushioning makes the Ride 15 suitable for long-distance runs. One customer comments, “ Compared to my 14s, the Ride 15 feels like it has more cushioning, yet is lighter and more breathable than prior models.“
8. Saucony Men’s Endorphin Speed 2 Running Shoes
BEST FOR COMPETITION
With its fine-tuned heel shape, the Endorphin Speed 2 is a great choice for anyone looking to sprint and race. Ideal for trails, roads, and daily running, this sneaker is also sustainably made from recycled materials. This shoe propels runners to be their fastest while providing a smooth, responsive and plush feel. It’s an ultralight and springy running shoe for anyone with the need for speed.
Buy: Saucony Men’s Endorphin Speed 2 Running Shoes $103.64 (orig. $160.00) 35% OFF
9. On Cloudflyer Running Shoes
BEST VALUE
The Cloudflyer runner shoe is all about lightness and stability and has a clean style in four color options. Better for road running, this shoe features soft cushioning, a 3D molded heel and a slightly wider outsole. Their foam is responsive yet protective. It’s also temperature-resistant, making it perfect for year-round performance. Multiple buyers on Zappo call these the most comfortable shoes they’ve ever bought.
Buy: On Cloudflyer Running Shoes $59.95
10. SALOMON Orange & Purple XT-6 Skyline Sneakers
BEST FOR ADVENTURES
One of the most popular and well-designed running shoes for high arches, the Salomon XT-6 shoe has been consistently improving for almost a decade. It’s suitable for any trail adventure, be it a long hike or adventures that involve steep gradients. The grip and stability of these sneakers are unparalleled, but they are a little heavier than other trail shoes on the market.
Buy: SALOMON Orange & Purple XT-6 Skyline Sneakers $190.00
11. Brooks Ghost 14 Running Shoe
MOST TOE ROOM
As one of the best running shoe brands for high arches, it’s no surprise that we’ve included multiple pairs by Brooks. The latest take on their Ghost shoe is perfectly spacious for those that usually feel their shoes are too cramped in the toes and mid-foot. Plus, an internal heal counter locks in your foot to prevent slippage while still giving you plenty of wiggle room.
Buy: Brooks Ghost 14 Running Shoe $129.95 (orig. $140.00) 7% OFF
12. Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 38 Running Shoes
MOST VERSATILE
Ideal for runners with medium to high arches, this Zoom Pegasus has a band that secures the mid-foot. It also features a tapered heel collar that reduces irritation. The Pegasus 38 also has updated Air Zoom cushioning at the front. What people love most about this shoe is its versatility – from Olympic-level athletes to new runners, this comfortable shoe delivers high performance and a casual look for everyday wear.
Buy: Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 38 Running Shoes $119.99 (orig. $135.99) 12% OFF
How To Shop for the Best Running Shoes Online
Dr. Cunha recommends shoe shopping in person if possible. Shop at the end of the day when your feet are more swollen so you know the shoe fits well then.
He adds, “I also recommend getting your foot measured with a Brannock Device from time to time to see if the width has changed.”
If you aren’t able to shop for running shoes in person or local stores don’t have the styles you’re looking for, look for brands you already know and trust, recommends Dr. Cunha. This way, you know their sizing and how the shoe fits your foot. A size 10 shoe from one manufacturer might fit differently than a size 10 shoe from another brand.
You could buy the same model shoe, or buy a new version of the shoe you’re already running in, suggests Dr. Cunha. While shoe manufacturers make updates when a new model comes out, the differences are usually related to cushioning, making it lighter, or changing the aesthetic of the shoe. You should also shop online at a retailer with a good try and return policy.
“Many stores allow people to run in the shoes and send them back if they don’t feel good,” says Dr. Karp. “Shoes should feel good right out of the box. The best way to choose running shoes is to buy the same shoes you are already comfortable wearing. If you have never run before and so don’t have a history of wearing running shoes, try a cushioning/neutral shoe first, since the vast majority of the public wears cushioning shoes.”
Zappos features a Runlimited 30-day guarantee that allows customers to “take the shoes for a ride, then decide” on fit, comfort and if it matches their performance needs. Better yet, Fleet Feet allows customs to return a product they wore within 60 days for a full refund. Sellers’ return policies on Amazon.com vary so review the third-party’s guidelines about using the product before you purchase them.
More Top Deals from SPY
Champion Logo Apparel Is Up To 50% Off for Prime Members Right Now
Ditch the Barbershop and Do It Yourself This Summer With the Best Bald Head Shaver for Men
Best of SPY
