We’ve all toughed it out in that cute but treacherous pair of shoes at least once, right?
But if your everyday shoes are causing you pain, you likely aren’t gettingthe support you need.
Plus, they’re amindbodygreen editor favorite.
THE REVIEW:This is one of the brand’s most-loved designs.
“One says, “I was walking 10 miles a day and never felt any discomfort.
Asics Gel Nimbus 26
Asics' Gel Nimbus line comes recommended by Sharkey.
It’s a flexible, well-cushioned shoe with neutral arch support that molds to your foot over time.
Plus, they’re available in a generous selection of color options.
THE REVIEW:One reviewer states, “love them.
I use them for work - on my feet 7-8 hours each work day.
Bought a second pair.
Would buy another just like them if I could find them in my size.”
Hoka Clifton 8
Thanks to their highly cushioned midsoles, these sneakers are often recommended by Sharkey.
They have a roomy toe box, neutral arch support, and are surprisingly lightweight for their chunkier design.
People with arch pain in particular will appreciate the cloudlike cushioning and supportive soles.
And, since they’re so versatile, they’ll even make a great gift.
Some reviews do mention that they’re not the most durable.
THE REVIEW:“I work as a nurse and I would recommend Hoka 1000x before another shoe.
They are so comfortable that after a 12 hour shift my feet don’t hurt at all.
They do take a few days to break them in.
I would recommend wearing them around the house a few hours before your first day at work.
They’re also machine washable and have removable insoles for custom orthotics.
Bonus: The brand uses sustainably sourced canvas.
I’m getting another pair of these shoes, they’re so amazing.”
On the con side, a few people warn that these shoes are not extremely durable.
Neutral support and generous cushioning make these shoes a suitable choice for runners of all distances.
These shoes meet podiatrist guidelines for walking, too, and are one ofour top walking shoes for women.
That said, some people with very high arches find these to be too neutral.
I know several nurses that wear them and I wear them every day.
They are well worth the investment!!!”
Addiction Walkerby Brooks
This walking shoe provides great support forpeople with high arches.
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 thebest walking shoes for bunions, thanks to the wide toe box.
Stan Smithsby Adidas
Stan Smiths have been an Adidas fan-favorite for decades.
They’ve recently been redesigned to use a vegan, synthetic leather, made from 50% recycled materials.
Never a single blister or sore arch.
These loafers have over 20,000 (!)
reviews on the brand’s website, with an overall rating of 4.7 out of 5.
Some reviewers note that these are not great for very high arches.
Perfect sizing, no break in time and so very stylish!"
The brand’s Wailea Golf Shoe is a stylish design made with waterproof leather and grippy, tractioned soles.
Like all of OluKai’s shoes, the Wailea offers a convertible drop-heel for optional slide-on wear.
THE REVIEW:Onereviewer writes, “OluKai never disappoints.
These sneakers are no exception.
Came ready to go, with both shoes fully laced.
Super comfortable right out of the box, no wearing in time needed.
Supple high grade leather, stitching.
Inside support has nice cushioning.
My size is 8.5 and these are true to size.”
Our list includes shoes for running, work, walking, and everyday wear.
Regardless of what activity you’re after, we found a shoe that will support your arches.
Shoes can get expensive (as can custom orthotics!
), so we made sure to include a range of products to fit various budgets.
We always keep Mother Earth in mind when reviewing products at mindbodygreen.
“Stay away from motion control shoes, as these are often too rigid,” she warns.
“A cushion insole that contours well to the arch does best in this situation.”
If you’re interested in trying inserts, consider sizing up a half size, depending on the model.
Why is arch support important?
“Arch supports in shoes can help by improving shock absorption, posture, and stability.”
Janine Ferrigno-Taddeo, DPM, agrees.
It’s also important to understand that some degree of pronation is normal and necessary for efficient gait dynamics.
Your shoes should provide just the right amount of arch support for your foot shape specifically.
So, how do you know how much lift you need?
Sharkey confirms that both flat-footed people and those with high arches will benefit from therightlevel of arch support.
Plus, as the base of our entire bodies, healthy feetbenefit our posture, keeping us in alignment.
Taking care of our feet goes beyond wearing the right pair of kicks.
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of shoes are good for arches?
Is it better to wear shoes with arch support?
The amount of support you need will depend on your personal arch height.
Again, everyone’s feet are different.
How do I know if I need arch support?
If you’re experiencing pain in the arches of your feet, we recommend speaking with a podiatrist.
We also added some additional thoughts around foot health and longevity.
