Read on to discover what to look for in your search for the best running shoes for high arches.
What is considered a high arch?
The arch of your foot is the curved area between the ball of your foot and the heel.
Kornfeld says high arches are mostly congenital.
“Short plantar fascias, tight Achilles tendons or calf muscles are the most common causes.
There are also some patients with skeletal abnormalities within the foot itself.”
Because of the high angle, the extensor tendons gain an advantage and create hammertoe deformities."
High arches often lead to underpronation (supination), where the foot doesn’t roll inward enough.
This can result in an uneven distribution of pressure, leading to discomfort and potential injuries.
Poor stability:High-arched feet are generally less stable than those with normal arches.
This can lead to a less efficient and more uncomfortable running experience.
“The majority of high-arched patients have a more rigid structure to their feet,” says Kornfeld.
Flexibility:If you have a more rigid foot, go for something more flexible.
For those with a flexible high arch, less flexibility is better.
In both instances, good impact support is critical."
How we picked:
Most of our picks are direct recommendations from the podiatrists we interviewed.
Others were chosen by our team based on personal experience, our expert’s guidelines, and additional research.
Segmented crash pads deliver support and cushioning all around the foot for reduced impact.
Both podiatrists we spoke with recommend this pick for runners with high arches.
Kornfeld says, When additional plush cushioning is needed, the Asics Gel Nimbus 25 is a good choice.
They are very comfortable, stable and light in spite of the extra-cushioning.
Mindbodygreen’s very own marathon-running commerce editor, Carleigh Ferrante, also swears by the Asics Gel Nimbus.
The new stabilizing H-FrameTM has even softer foams than before, delivering maximum stability without compromising cushioning.
Best for stability:Brooks Adrenaline GTS
Sharkey recommends this shoe specifically for added stability.
Sharkey says, The Hoka Bondi 8s are one of my favorite shock absorbing shoes.
The Bondi 8 is a breathable shoe with neutral support and a memory foam ankle cradle.
It’s a fast shoe.
Theres plenty of protective cushioning and stable when cornering, he says.
Plus, its thick stack of cushioning improves compression and creates a responsive feel underfoot.
If your feet get hot during races, you’ll love the shoe’s breathable mesh upper.
This is Kornfelds number one recommendation for a flexible running shoe for high arches.
Theres plenty to love about this shoe’s design.
Kornfeld says he loves this shoe because its stable, has a breathable upper, and its lightweight.
Best podiatrist-recommended:Puma Deviate Nitro II
This one’s a top recommendation from Kornfeld.
We also reference this Puma best-seller at length in our article onhow to run with less pain.
Guidance rails support your foot from heel to toeand wide sizes are available, too.
Sharkey says, “Exercise improves mental health.
Exercise also improves cardiovascular health.
Anything that positively impacts our health will ultimately impact the longevity and quality of life we experience.”
One study concludedregular exercise can improve life expectancy up to almost seven years5.
FAQ:
What kind of running shoes do I need if I have high arches?
Holistic podiatrist Robert Kornfeld says running shoes with good arch support are a requirement.
In addition, if you have a rigid-jot down high-arch foot, a more flexible shoe is helpful.
For those with a flexible high arch, less flexibility is better.
In both instances, good impact support is critical.
Do high arches need more or less support?
Podiatrists agree that good midfoot arch support is a requirement.
Is it harder to run with high arches?
Kornfeld says high-arched feet do very well with sprinting.
“For long-distance running, they can develop functional challenges.
What causes high arches?
Kornfeld says high arches are mostly congenital.
“It has to do with the structure of the foot developed during the fetal stage.
Short plantar fascias, tight achilles tendons or calf muscles are the most common causes.
There are also some patients with skeletal abnormalities within the foot itself.”
Are stability or neutral shoes better for high arches?
Sharkey says that neutral shoes or cushioning shoes work for high arches depending on your specific foot jot down.
The takeaway
The best running shoes for high arches can make or break your comfort and performance.
