11 Best Running Shoes for High Arches
In this guide, we have selected some of of the very best running shoes for high arches to help eliminate foot pain.
Standout Picks
Criteria Used for Evaluation
Support
Unlike running shoes for flat feet, where the main focus is to carry and support the center of the foot, high arches need a different kind of support. Since the center of this type of foot is much higher, it then allows the stress and weight to push down more of the heel and ball of the foot. Puts a strain on more than one area, requiring the appropriate type of support to prevent any related issues from developing later on. So bear this in mind when you're shopping for the best shoes for high arches.
As far as the right support goes, the center of the foot in running shoes with arch support must have the appropriate height of insole to carry it, not allowing it to go unsupported while holding the body’s weight. Additionally, the forefoot and heel must also have the right amount of support and cushioning as well. These two parts of the foot are, in most cases, under strain from having the arch formed in a way that presents more load down onto the heel and ball.
If you get the shoe that provides the best support for runners who overpronate, you will end up with a useless pair of shoes--so make sure you are considering your support needs and try and figure out the level of support you need as well.
Breathability
Like any other great choice in running shoes, they must be able to breathe. With constant updates and new technologies, footwear is no stranger to designing progression and lightweight materials. The choices will almost always have an upper portion that is constructed from whatever the latest trend in textiles and fabrics, also using the latest methods to put it all together.
Some models have an upper that is made up of a design which has such good airflow, and you can almost see right through it. Other arch support running shoes are made up of layers, containing mesh and other breathable and lightweight materials. Whatever the design, the best models should always provide decent airflow and ventilation to maintain a comfortable run
It is important to note that shoes made for specific weather or environments may be less breathable simply because they have to meet the needs of the runners who like to run in those distinct environments.
We don't have any drastically different running shoes on our list, but we wanted to mention this because some shoes are less breathable than others. While we did our best to choose the shoes with the best breathability without sacrificing durability or any other essential features, we still want you to take a close look at each shoe's breathability rating to ensure that it is what you need.
Comfort
If you’re going to wear them for running, they need to be comfortable. The right support for higher arches is one thing, but having the comfort to go along with that support is what you need, especially to get you down the road efficiently. Along with that center support, we looked for shoes that also provide plenty of cushioning for the heel and forefoot, which are carrying the strain from that higher arch pushing down.
Every brand of running shoes with high arch support has its proprietary design as far as midsoles and cushioning systems go. The big thing that we look for is whether or not that design holds up after continuous use, and if the cushioning is plush, but not so soft that it doesn’t support enough.
The cushioning a runner needs depends on not only the arch type, but the way the foot rolls, or pronation. The placement of the cushioning depends on whether your foot rolls inward, or underpronation, or if it rolls outward, or overpronation. However, neutral pronation is when the foot does not roll excessively inward or outward. For runners who need support for high arches, the cushioning should not be overly stiff, nor should it have bulky or heavy cushioning. It may lead to excessive pronation that was not originally there.
However, most runners with high arches need additional cushioning on the outside of the running shoe to prevent excessive inward rolling of the foot. Many runners with high arches experience underpronation, so cushioning in this position will counteract that.
Stability
If you have higher arches you often need to ensure you have more stability in your running shoes. High arches don't allow the foot to make much contact in the center of the foot, so a good model needs to make up for that by filling that gap by providing that necessary stability.
That stability is also aided dramatically by excellent positive traction from a sturdy and a well-designed outsole. With that kind of support, we also looked for models that offer a steady running platform to ensure a natural and confident stride.
And as usual, we also took a good look at actual user reviews so that we could present you with information based on real users. If you are tired of dealing with your ankles rolling and fearing you will one day get injured, make sure that you purchase a pair of shoes that offer the right stability you need. If you are worried that your shoes are going to be heavier and hold you back, remember that the selections on our list are designed to remain as lightweight as possible.
If you have high arches, you won't really be able to use the lightest and most minimalistic shoes out there since you need additional support and stability features--but we can assure you that we will always update our list to ensure you aren't sacrificing anything to get the stability that you need in a running shoe.
Flexibility
For runners with high arches, flexibility is also an essential component. Flexibility in running shoes helps offset the rigidity/stiffness in a runners foot. It will also help evenly distribute impact. When looking for a flexible shoe, the most noticeable feature is the upper. Is it soft? What material is it made out of? Most flexible shoes have a mesh or synthetic upper.
Also, the outsole and midsole should be flexible to allow for natural foot movement. Can you bend the shoe in your hands? However, again, the best way to see if the shoe is flexible enough is to try it on.
One thing we want to point out is that since you have high arches, you will need additional features to ensure that you get the support and stability you need. After all, the point of using a running shoe designed for runners with high arches is not only to address the pain and symptoms you are having but also to ensure that you can prevent them from occurring again. Since your shoes require a little more than a minimalistic running shoe, you will find that the shoes on our list might be a little more rigid when compared to the most flexible running shoes out there.
It is precisely due to the additional feature needed to make perfect running shoes for high arches--so don't worry. And, if you are worried, we want you to know that we considered the additional weight added by the other components and did our best to provide flexible yet stable and supportive shoes for you to choose from.
All You Need To Know About High Arches & Running
Click here to see more Top 11 Running Shoes with Arch Support
1. Hoka One One Clifton 7
Hoka One One is known for its great stability trains, and the Clifton 7 is the ideal choice for those high arches. What we love most about this shoe is that it boasts a super responsive midsole that cushions your foot as well as guides it through an even gait cycle. It comes in at a slightly expensive price tag, but the primo cushioning and heightened durability make it an excellent value.
Read moreWhat makes this design ideal for arch support is the construction of the midsole. It is composed of a super plush EVA foam that really contours to the shape of your foot as you wear it. Previous users of this design that suffer from high arches found that it is super comfortable enough to wear all day long.
We also like that this design boasts a soft and breathable mesh upper. While many Hoka’s are weighed down by heavy mesh uppers with a lot of easy cushioning in the collar and tongue, the Clifton 7 keeps the upper lightweight and incredibly breathable.
If you are in the market for something that comes from a trusted brand that is made from premium materials that really hug your feet and provide the ultimate support, this design from Hoka One One is a great choice. It may cost a little bit more than most, but we feel that it is worth every penny.
2. Saucony Ride 13
What we love most about this updated version of the Ride is that it is made to fit a wide variety of feet. Whether you have high arches, a wide foot, or strike with your heel, this innovative design is built to react and contour to all shapes and styles of runners. Plus, it is composed of lightweight materials to keep you out on the trails while keeping your feet supported.
Read moreThe updated PWRRUN cushioning found in the midsole is super soft and provides runners with excellent energy feedback to make you feel like you are running on a cloud. The Ride 13 also adds an updated medial TPU guidance frame that helps guide your foot to an even gait, making this design ideal for overpronators.
The upper of this design is super lightweight and breathable as well. It is composed of breathable mesh materials that lift hot air up and away from your foot. The FORMFIT technology in the fibers really hugs your foot for a secure fit, and it also boasts a wider toe box for better toe splay and stability.
Whether you like more neutral color options or want something that can be seen from space, the Ride 13 comes in a wide variety of sleek color and design choices. We love that it boasts versatile and supportive features that not only help to support your arches but provide additional support where you need it most.
3. Brooks Pure Cadence 7
If you need a good stability shoe that provides a good deal of cushioning and support, you can’t go wrong with most designs in the Brooks lineup. The reason that we selected that Pure Cadence 7 is because the super-cushioned midsole and the guide rail system is the perfect combination for those that need a little support in their arches.
Read moreWhat makes the Pure Cadence 7 great is that it offers runners with ideal stability features without adding a lot of extra weight or stiffness. The BioMoGo DNA midsole contours to the shape of your foot, and has plush cushioning that you can feel throughout your entire gait cycle. It even has subtle guide rails that help to even out your gait cycle, which can really help to eliminate pain.
We also love that the upper of this design is lightweight and breathable. Unlike many of the other stability trainers in the Brooks lineup, the Pure Cadence 7 is really made to move. The upper is composed of a flexible mesh fabric that contours to the shape of your foot, and helps to move hot air up and away to keep your feet cool and dry.
If you are in the market for a great stability trainer that stiff offers a good deal of flexibility, this is a great option. It is perfect for long-distance running, but it offers up just enough bend to allow runners to pick up the pace when needed. It costs a little bit more than most, but the added durability makes it a great value.
4. Brooks Glycerin 18
While the Pure Cadence is a shoe that is designed to be lightweight and versatile, the Glycerin 18 is for those that want the ultimate amount of cushioning. With just one look at the bulky midsole of this design, and you know that Brooks threw in all of the cushioning possible. If you don’t care about extra weight and bulk and you just want to feel like you are running on a spring cloud, the Glycerin 18 is worth checking out!
Read moreWhat makes the Glycerin 18 unique is that it is one of the most cushioned shoes currently out there on the market. The thick midsole is composed of Brook’s patented DNA LOFT foam that is incredibly soft, springy, and responsive. This midsole cradles your entire foot as you run, high arches and all!
In addition to a plush midsole, this design hosts a few other features to keep your foot supported as you train. The mesh stretches upper contours to the shape of your foot for excellent lockdown. It also has added cushioning in key transition zones to give you a little extra boost where you need it most.
Ultimate cushioning comes at a cost. Users found that the Glycerin 18 is heavier and bulkier than other designs out there on the market, which may affect your speed. However, for long-distance runners or those that just want to head out for an easy afternoon jog, the extra weight is well worth the primo cushioning!
5. Mizuno Wave Inspire 17
There have been some pretty big changes in the newest edition to the Wave Inspire from Mizuno. These changes provide users with added levels of stability and support while keeping this shoe lightweight and comfortable for long rides. What we loved most about this design is that it is the perfect trainer for long-distance running, as well as speed.
Read moreWhat makes the Wave Inspire 17 unique is the addition of the Fan Wave Plate. This fan design helps to distribute weight evenly throughout your foot and makes it more responsive when running on hard surfaces. Plus, the wave design makes this trainer lighter than previous versions of the Wave Inspire.
Users also love the design and fit of the upper of this design. It is composed of an engineered mesh that stretches over your foot for a snug fit and excellent lockdown. It boasts additional stability panels in key areas to help keep your foot supportive while the mesh panels lift hot air up and away from your foot.
If you are in the market for something that is both lightweight and supportive, this design from Mizuno is a great choice. It is composed of incredibly durable and lightweight materials that make you feel like you are running on a cloud. Whether your goal is speed or distance, the Wave Inspire 17 is a great choice.
6. Adidas Solar Glide ST 3
What we love most about the Solar Glide ST from Adidas is that it is composed of multiple layers of supportive features that help to cradle and protect your feet. This design is a little on the stiff side, but the stiffer construction helps to support your feet on those long runs on hard surfaces. The best part? It clocks in at a super affordable price point!
Read moreWhat makes the Solar Glide ST really stand out from the pack is the full-length Continental rubber outsole. This design provides some serious traction without adding a lot of extra weight. It is the perfect design for running on dry or slippery sidewalks all year round.
The midsole, as we mentioned earlier, is a little on the stiff side, It is composed of Boost foam that you can really feel right out of the gate. This foam is super soft and squishy and is incredibly supportive as well as providing excellent energy return which will help to reduce foot fatigue on those long runs.
If you are in the market for something that is a little more affordable that comes from a trusted brand, the Solar Glide ST is a great choice. It offers runners a steady and smooth ride and boasts supportive features to reduce strain on your feet. It also utilizes a lightweight and breathable upper to keep your feet cool and dry.
7. Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 37
Looking for a shoe that blends cushioning with style? The Air Zoom Pegasus 37 from Nike is one of the softest and most responsive trainers in the Nike lineup, and it comes in sleek and modern designs that are sure to generate a few envious stares. Besides the sleek styling, we also love that this design is super lightweight and incredibly versatile.
Read moreIf you need something for an easy tempo run, or you want to pick up the pace with ample cushioning to keep your feet supported, this design is a great option. The midsole is composed of Zoom Air tech in the heel as well as the forefoot that makes you feel like you are running on a cloud. It also includes a layer of EVA foam for a more contoured fit.
To us, the design of the upper is what makes this design stand out from the crowd of bulky stability trainers. While the midsole is packed with advanced features to keep your stride light, the upper is fairly simple. It is composed of a light layer of mesh stretch fabric that is incredibly breathable as well as lightweight.
If you are in the market for something that is made from premium materials to keep your stride light and your feet supported, this design from Nike is a great choice. It comes in at a slightly higher price point than many of the other designs on our list, but the blend of style and function makes it worth every penny!
8. Asics Gel-Kinsei OG
Beautiful design, superior support, and stylish colors come together in this fantastic shoe that is an excellent choice for runners of all talent levels .Matching a shoe’s properties with the runner’s running style will increase running efficiency, comfort, and contribute to decreasing the risk of injury. They are very supportive, but at the same time, they cushion the right amount.
Read moreASICS’s great Gel cushioning system makes you comfy in every step. Kinsei is one of the best solutions for high arches. Besides, if you run relatively long distances and want to do your feet a favor, you may want to consider these.
These have the flexibility you'd look for with a FluidFit upper and a multi-directional stretch mesh upper and rearfoot. They are also designed to reduce the stress your joints absorb during impact.
The upgraded version improves upon durability and comfort. These are designed to provide runners with a seamless and smooth ride. Competitively priced, they are worth your time to take a look.
When you need a running shoe to use for your races and training sessions, this is a great choice to consider!
9. Brooks Ghost 13
It should come to you as no surprise that Brooks is showing up on our list yet again! Any Brooks trainer will give you excellent stability and support, but there are some designs that are built more for those with high arches, and the Ghost 13 is one of them. We love that the Ghost 13 is incredibly versatile without skimping on the supportive features.
Read moreIf you are looking for a more neutral runner that still provides a good deal of support, the Ghost 13 is a great choice. It boasts a midsole that is composed of a modest blend of BioMoGo DNA and DNA LOFT foam cushioning. This midsole is soft and responsive, yet a little stiffer than some of the other Brooks designs out there on the market. The stiffer midsole improves stability and support at the cost of flexibility.
We also love that the upper is made to really hug your foot and provides excellent lockdown. It is composed of 3D Fit Print mesh materials that contours to the shape of your foot. This material is incredibly lightweight and breathable and works to keep your foot cool and dry on those hot training days.
If you need something that is versatile enough to transition from the track to the weight room, this design from Brooks is a great choice. It provides users with excellent stability and support to eliminate foot pain, and the neutral design makes it incredibly versatile. It may cost a little bit more than most, but the durable frame makes it a great value.
10. Altra Torin Plush 4.5
If you love the feeling of slipping into a super soft and springy pair of trainers, the Altra Torrin PLus 4.5 is worth checking out. At first glance, the Torrin PLush 4.5 looks like a pretty basic shoe, but it is packed with premium padding that you can really feel when you place your weight down on the midsole. The best part about this design is that it is lightweight and incredibly versatile.
Read moreThis newest addition to the Torrin lineup reduced the weight by a few ounces, but they amped up the cushion level! It weighs in at just over 9 ounces, which is incredibly lightweight for a stable shoe. It boasts a plush and squishy midsole that is composed of a thick layer of Altra’s proprietary Quantic foam technology that you will fall in love with at first step.
We also love that the upper is slightly structured, and hugs your foot in all of the right places. The stiffer feel of this trainer offers runners excellent lockdown, making it ideal for speed, distance, as well as weight training at the gym. Users find that this upper is incredibly breathable, and the wide toe box is great for wide feet.
If you are in the market for something that boasts a simple and lightweight minimalistic design that is packed with squishy and supportive materials to support your feet, this design is a great choice. Some users found that even after a 35-mile run, their feet were completely pain-free!
11. ASICS Gel-Venture 7
Stability trainers often carry quite the heavy price tag, which is why we wanted to make sure that we included the Gel-Venture 7 from ASICS. While it comes in at a much more affordable price point, it doesn’t skimp on the quality of materials used. It boasts a super supportive midsole with a responsive outsole that helps to cradle your arches and provides excellent energy feedback.
Read moreThe midsole of this design is composed of a thick layer of EVA foam, but the real hero of this trainer lies in the heel. The heel utilizing ASICS gel technology to help absorb impact with each and every step to keep your feet comforted and protected.
Unlike some of the other designs that we have seen, the Gel-Venture 7 boasts a more supportive upper. It is composed of a blend of mesh and synthetic overlays. It also boasts additional padding along the heel collar and tongue. While it is a bit stiff, the mesh panels in help areas work to keep your feet cool.
If you are in the market for something that comes in at a super affordable price point and boasts all of the supportive features needed to reduce foot pain and strain on your arches, this design from ASICS is a great choice. It is important to note, however, that this design isn’t quite as durable as some of the more expensive designs on our list.
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- , How Does Your Arch Height Affect Your Shoe Choice and Injury Risk , Running website
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