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Best arch support shoes of 2024
This content should not be considered medical advice. The information provided is not meant to diagnose or treat any health conditions. Consult with your doctor before beginning a new exercise routine or taking any new supplements.
What you put on your feet is critical to your comfort level and overall foot health. This is especially true when it comes to supporting your arches—the little curved structure on the bottom of your foot. Proper arch support in shoes is the foundation for our feet to navigate the challenges of daily activities, be it a casual stroll, a hardcore run or even a day spent on our feet.
A meta-analysis of more than 150 studies sheds light on the scientific significance of having the right arch support. Researchers evaluated the importance of shoes with arch support for injury prevention, running economy, cushioning, injury recovery, balance and stability. This comprehensive analysis concluded that choosing arch support shoes is about more than comfort; it's also a key player in alleviating potential foot pain and, not surprisingly, can help prevent potential injuries.
In this article, we have identified the very best shoes with arch support. We considered comfort, function, intended purpose and biomechanics. Whether you are hitting the trails, lacing up for a long run or dealing with specific arch support needs, we have got you covered.
How we chose the best arch support shoes
As an endurance athlete, I've tried sneakers from almost every brand that claims to offer arch support. My focus has always been on finding shoes that strike the right balance: a high level of stability, mid-level cushioning and a design that is supportive along the midfoot. When you are on the hunt for the right arch support shoes, it's crucial to factor in your foot type and pronation—elements that played a critical role in creating this list.
Drawing not only from personal experiences but also delving into research, I read articles published by the American College of Sports Medicine to figure out how best to go about choosing a solid shoe. Armed with this information, I evaluated sneakers based on brand reputation, quality, durability and user feedback. While the market is flooded with options boasting arch support, I've narrowed down the list to the five best contenders for you.
Top arch support shoes
- Best for walking: Hoka Arahi 6
- Best for running: Saucony Endorphin Speed 3
- Best for trail running: Salomon Speedcross 6
- Best for underpronators: Asics Novablast 3
- Best for overpronation: Asics Gel-Kayano 30
Best arch support for walking: Hoka Arahi 6
- Compression molded EVA foam midsole
- J-frame midsole support
- Low heel-to-toe drop well-suited for walking
About Hoka Arahi 6
HOKA has gained some traction in the world of sneakers, known for engineering shoes that offer comfort, cushioning and stability. From their impressive line of footwear, the HOKA Arahi 6 snags the spot for the best arch support for walking. Engineered with Meta-Rocker technology, this sneaker combines a low heel-to-toe drop with a rounded sole to encourage a natural walking stride.
The Arahi 6 features HOKA’s signature J-frame midsole support, which is intended to help correct overpronation (something that is very common in those who have flat feet). The J-frame design is a firm piece of foam in the shape of a J that extends from the medial side and loops around the heel around the lateral side.
In addition to this arch support, the Arahi 6 features a breathable mesh upper, plush tongue, extended heel pull, an Ortholite sockliner, a compression-molded EVA foam midsole, a zonal Durabrasion rubber outsole and a recycled polyester sockliner. Add in its ample cushioning, and you have yourself a high-quality, extremely comfortable and supportive walking shoe.
Why we like it
- Smooth heel-to-toe transitions
- Arch support that works to correct overpronation
- Lightweight
What to consider
- Some reports that they run smaller than previous editions
- Wide version still too narrow for some users
Best for arch support for running: Saucony Endorphin Speed 3
- Lightweight and highly-responsive patented foam cushioning
- Rubber outsole pattern provides strong road grip
- Designed to propel forward
About Saucony Endorphin Speed 3
Serious runners in need of arch support but who don’t want to sacrifice speed for weight in a supportive sneaker should take a good look at the Saucony Endorphin Speed 3. The Endorphin Speed line features Saucony’s patented SPEEDROLL technology that helps propel the foot forward and an S-curve winged nylon plate along the sidewalls that enhances energy return.
Unlike many running shoes with arch support, the Endorphin Speed 3 is ultra-lightweight thanks to its PWRRUNPB foam cushioning. The breathable mesh upper is designed for a snug yet forgiving fit, helping to keep the foot in place during longer runs. When pounding the pavement, the XY-900 rubber outsole pattern ensures a solid grip on the road.
Why we like it
- Lightweight
- Solid arch support
- Really cool colors
What to consider
- Price
- No wide version
Best arch support for trail running: Salomon Speedcross 6
- High level of traction
- Designed to protect the foot in all conditions
- 10-millimeter heel-to-toe drop
About Salomon Speedcross 6
If you are a trail runner, you are likely familiar with Salomon’s line of Speedcross sneakers. The Speedcross 6 maintains many of the amazing features seen in previous models while striking an improved balance between midfoot cushioning, stability and toe sensitivity.
For heel strikers in need of arch support, this model has added a substantial heel counter and a 10-millimeter heel-to-toe drop designed to provide solid underfoot protection on any terrain.
The Speedcross 6 is constructed with Salomon’s Sensifit, which provides what is claimed to be an optimal foothold. The overall design boasts an aerodynamic shape, which allows you to move quickly when needed during your next trail run. This shoe has some major advantages over others when it comes to traction. The outsole has a firm and intense lug pattern, which makes tackling trails in dirt, sand, mud or snow a non-issue.
Why we like it
- Durable
- Solid choice for heel strikers
- Great traction
What to consider
- Cushioning is not well-suited for long runs
- May feel stiff to some
Best arch support for under pronators: Asics Novablast 3
About Asics Novablast 3
Runners with high arches typically underpronate. These runners often find their sneakers wear unevenly on the outer sole, resulting in less than a smooth run. The Asics Novablast 3 is well-suited to these runners.
Asics Novablast 3 provides runners with an incredibly high level of cushioning, featuring its signature Flytefoam Blast+ midsole. According to Asics, this cushioning results in a bouncy feel that moves you forward while absorbing shock with every footfall. The Flytefoam Blast+ does all this without adding much weight, keeping this running shoe lighter than previous versions.
Featuring a gusseted tongue wing construction in the upper and a supportive heel design, the Novablast 3 provides a lot of foot control while creating a more balanced stride. It also has a jacquard mesh upper, which keeps the feet cool during warmer temperatures.
Why we like it
- High-level of cushioning at midsole
- A ton of color options
- Secure upper fit
What to consider
- No wide sizes
- Minimal reflective detailing
Best shoe with arch support for overpronation: Asics Gel-Kayano 30
- Sculpted midsole provides lateral compression
- Guidance technology which guides the foot and adapts to your running style
- Structured outsole facilitates proper foot strike
About Asics Gel-Kayano 30
Runners with low arches will likely overpronate when they run. Their foot also lands on the outside of the heel, but unlike underpronators, it then rolls inward too far. The force of the impact travels to the inner edge of the foot, potentially resulting in shin splints, plantar fasciitis or heel spurs. The Asics Gel-Kayano 30 offers great medial support, structured soles and cushioning which makes them ideal for overpronators.
The Asics Gel-Kayano has been a fan favorite for some time now and the most recent iteration does not disappoint. Thanks to Asics 4D Guidance System technology, these sneakers enhance adaptive stability, providing support and balance during any run. The midsole features FlyteFoam Blast Plus Eco cushioning and a 4-millimeter stack height increase from its predecessor. Additionally, PureGEL technology, positioned beneath the heel, offers increased softness, contributing to a smoother ride during distance training sessions. I can personally attest to their durability, support and overall comfort.
Why we like it
- High-level of arch support
- Adaptive stability
- Durable
What to consider
- Expensive
- Some reports that the midsole feels tight
How to choose an arch support shoe
Choosing the shoe with the right level of arch support is more technical than one might think. In addition to budget and personal preference, you need to consider your foot type, pronation and cushioning.
- Foot type: Feet typically fall into one of three categories - those with a neutral arch, low arch and high arch. Each type is associated with a very specific foot strike requiring a different type of sneaker.
- Pronation: Depending on your foot type, you likely either have a balanced stride, overpronate or underpronate. When the foot rolls too much inward or outward, runners need to look for a specific type of arch support shoe.
- Cushioning: Runners who underpronate benefit from a higher level of cushioning and shock absorption than do overpronators.
Methodology
To compile this list, our writers and editors reviewed top products on the market, compared specs and features and created a short list of the top supportive shoes on the market. Then, we used product descriptions, reviews and user ratings to find the best arch support shoes for each category. Note that we do not test every product but base our lists on our research, user reviews and expert opinions.
FAQ
What shoe brand has the best arch support?
There isn't one specific brand that can easily be named the winner for best arch support. That being said, Hoka, Asics and New Balance are always top contenders when trying to choose a shoe made for arch support.
What feet need arch support?
Those with flat feet or high arches will often need to look into arch supports to ensure their feet stay comfortable throughout their adventures. However, even people with a standard-size arch may find arch-support shoes more comfortable and supportive.
Is barefoot or arch support better?
There are many shoes on the market categorized as barefoot or minimalist shoes, which provide little to no support. There has been a lot of debate about which shoe—barefoot or one with arch support—is better for your overall foot health. As you may guess, the answer is complicated and dependent on your specific foot’s needs and personal preferences. Some experts claim that barefoot shoes are better because they aid in the development of intrinsic foot muscles, whereas others argue that the lack of support worsens the condition of these muscles.
References
Khan, S. (2023, November 8). The Truth About Arch Support - A Meta Analysis of 150 Studies. RunRepeat. Retrieved November 12, 2023, retrieved from https://runrepeat.com/arch-support-study
SELECTING RUNNING SHOES. (n.d.). American College of Sports Medicine. Retrieved November 12, 2023, retrieved from https://www.acsm.org/docs/default-source/files-for-resource-library/running-shoes.pdf
Coyner, K. (2017, August 12). Finding the Right Running Shoe | Orthopedics & Sports Medicine. UConn Health. Retrieved November 12, 2023, retrieved from https://health.uconn.edu/orthopedics-sports-medicine/2017/08/12/finding-the-right-running-shoe/
