Are you tired of uncomfortable shoes that leave your feet aching? Look no further! In this article, we will delve into the topic of finding the best walking shoes with arch support that offer unparalleled comfort without compromising on style. Whether you have high arches, plantar fasciitis, or simply want to enhance your walking experience, we have gathered a curated collection of the top shoe options for you. So, get ready to step up your footwear game and discover the best shoes that will support your arches in style and comfort.
How to Choose the Best Shoes for Arch Support
The best shoe for you depends on your arch type, foot shape, daily needs, and other factors. When selecting the right shoe, ensure that the built-in arch support is at the correct height and positioned properly on your foot. This will help prevent additional pain or discomfort. The arch support should not put pressure on your toes or cause your heel to slip out. Also, make sure the shoes offer some flexibility and stability by being slightly twistable and having a firm back. Lastly, choose shoes with the appropriate width to avoid long-term discomfort.
Shoes for Arch Support FAQs
Are memory foam shoes good for arch support?
According to Dr. Christopher Hubbard, a board-certified foot and ankle orthopedic surgeon, memory foam shoes can provide arch support and alleviate various foot concerns.
Why do shoes with arch support hurt my feet?
If shoes with added arch support cause discomfort, it may indicate that the support is too high, too stiff, or not properly positioned on the foot. Consulting a podiatrist can help you find the right support for your needs, and custom-made supports are recommended whenever possible.
The effects of arch supports on foot muscle strength are a topic of debate. A recent study published in the scientific journal Clinical Biomechanics suggests that short-term use of foot supports can weaken foot muscles in individuals with flat feet. However, other studies and most podiatrists argue the opposite, stating that arch supports can actually strengthen foot muscles.
Related: Check out the Top 10 Best Shoes for Flat Feet to Keep You Stylish and Comfortable.
How do I determine my arch type?
Determining your arch type is as simple as examining your footprints. Dip your feet in water, then step on a flat piece of cardboard to observe the shape your foot makes. A normal arch will fill about half of the middle section of the footprint, a low arch will resemble a complete foot, and a high arch may not appear on the cardboard.
Can too much arch support be detrimental to feet?
Having excessive arch support may lead to pain, body aches, and even injuries. It is important to choose arch supports that provide the appropriate height to support your feet and prevent discomfort.
Best Walking Shoes
The Expert: I became a runner in middle school and have covered running and outdoor gear for years, both on-staff at Runner’s World and as a freelance journalist for InsideHook, Men’s Journal, and other outlets. I’ve written about shoes extensively, and I have firsthand experience trying out models from a range of brands (including many of the brands featured in this guide). In addition to drawing on my own experience, I also tested several pairs of walking shoes to get a better sense of the tech and features in them, and how they differ from running shoes.
Best Arch Support Shoes for Walking: Skechers GO WALK Arch Fit
Skechers
- Size range: Men’s 7.5-15, Women’s 5-13; some half sizes and options for wide feet available
- Shoe weight: Eight ounces
- Colors: Three for Men’s, seven for Women’s
- Price:
The GO WALK Arch Fit has received a rating of 4.3/5 stars on Amazon. Customers appreciate its supportive and comfortable design for casual walking and leisure activities. However, some have mentioned issues with the heel slipping out of the shoe during walking, even with the correct sizing.
Pros:
- Machine washable
- Budget-friendly
- Lightweight
Cons:
- Possible issues with fit
- May not provide sufficient arch support for everyone
Best Cushioned Arch Support Shoes: New Balance Fresh Foam X 880v12
New Balance
- Size range: Men’s 7-16, Women’s 5-13; narrow to extra wide sizes available, as well as some half sizes
- Shoe weight: 10.9 ounces
- Colors: 11
- Price: $134.99
The Fresh Foam X 880v12s have received an average rating of 4.6/5 stars on Amazon. Many customers find them extremely comfortable, with a good fit in the heel and a wide toe box. However, some mention that they may run slightly narrow.
Pros:
- Durable no-sew upper
- Classic New Balance design
- Comfortable with extra foam cushion in the heel
Cons:
- May be too narrow for some
- Heavier than other options
Best Shoes for High Arches: Hoka One One Clifton 8
Hoka
- Size range: Men’s 7-16, Women’s 5-12; some wide and half sizes available
- Shoe weight: 8.9 ounces
- Colors: 20 for Men’s, 21 for Women’s
- Price: $140
The Clifton 8 has received an average rating of 4.2/5 stars on Amazon. Many customers appreciate the shoe's comfort, cushioning, and support. However, there have been concerns about durability, with some customers reporting signs of wear after a year.
Pros:
- Certified by the American Podiatric Medical Association for promoting foot health
- Supportive and cushioned insole
- Wide variety of colors and patterns
Cons:
- Durability concerns
- Slightly higher price
Best Arch Support Shoes for Women: Vionic Slip-On Sneaker
Amazon
- Size range: Women’s 5-11
- Shoe weight: 7.9 ounces
- Colors: 42
- Price: .95
The Vionic Slip-On Sneaker has received ratings of 4.5/5 stars on Amazon and 4.6/5 stars on Vionic's website. Customers praise its high comfort level, lightweight feel, and attractive designs. However, some mention that the elastic ankle band can be uncomfortable, and the level of support may not be sufficient for individuals with high arches.
Pros:
- Extremely lightweight
- Vegan and sustainable materials
- Machine washable
Cons:
- May not provide enough support for those with high arches
- Elastic ankle band may cause discomfort
Best Arch Support Shoes for Plantar Fasciitis: Brooks Glycerin 20
Brooks Running
- Size range: Men’s 7-15, Women’s 5-12; narrow, wide, and some half sizes available
- Shoe weight: 10.2 ounces
- Colors: Seven for Men’s, 12 for Women’s
- Price: $160
These shoes feature a responsive midsole with a mixture of air, rubber, and mesh for ultimate cushioning during movement. The mesh upper is breathable and seamless, while the foam midsole provides added cushion, bounce, and shock absorption. The Glycerin 20s come in various colors.
The Brooks Glycerin 20 has received ratings of 4.5/5 stars on Amazon and positive feedback from customers. Many people find them highly cushioned and comfortable, but some mention that they offer neutral support and may not be the best choice for individuals with high arches.
Pros:
- Highly cushioned and comfortable
- Smooth step transitions
- Wide variety of colors
Cons:
- May not be suitable for individuals with high arches
- Higher price range
Best Arch Support Stability Shoes: ASICS Gel Nimbus 24
ASICS
- Size range: Men’s 6-16, Women’s 5-13; some half sizes and wide options available
- Shoe weight: 10.9 ounces
- Colors: 18
- Price: $160
The Gel Nimbus 24 has received positive ratings of 4.6/5 stars on Amazon and 4.5/5 stars on ASICS' website. Customers find them comfortable and appreciate the variety of available colors and patterns. However, some reviewers mention that the arch support may be too high for certain individuals.
Pros:
- Comfortable
- Wide variety of colors and patterns
- Made with recycled materials to reduce carbon emissions
Cons:
- Expensive
- Arch support may be too high for some individuals
Best Arch Support Shoes for Running: Saucony Omni 20
Dick's Sporting Goods
- Size range: Men’s 7-14, Women’s 5-12; wide and some half sizes available
- Shoe weight: 11.4 ounces
- Colors: Five
- Price: $129.95
Designed to conform to the shape of a runner's foot, the Saucony Omni 20s are the top choice for the best arch support running shoes. They feature a traditional lace-up closure and a breathable mesh upper, with five color options available.
The Omni 20s have received a rating of 4.6/5 stars on Amazon, with many customers praising their supportive insole, high comfort, and shock absorption. One satisfied Amazon customer shared, "I run short to medium distances daily in these shoes, both on a treadmill and outdoors. Overall, I think these shoes are a good investment for the money and their intended purpose."
While many runners find these shoes to offer comfortable arch support, a few have reported issues with durability. One Amazon customer mentioned, "My 12.5-year-old son wore these to school for two weeks before the tread completely separated from the bottom of the shoe." However, the majority of reviewers were satisfied with the shoes' lifespan.
Related: The Best Running Shoes for Flat Feet
Pros:
- Less expensive than other options
- Comfortable
- Supportive
Cons:
- Durability concerns
- Heavier than other options
Purchase Saucony Omni 20 Men’s | Women’s
Best Arch Support Shoes for Men: Altra Provision 6
REI
- Size range: Men’s 7-14, with some half sizes available
- Shoe weight: 10.1 ounces
- Colors: Five
- Price: $140
The Altra Provision 6 shoes are designed to provide flexibility and control. They feature a lace-up closure and added cushioning in the heel and toe for a secure fit. The footbed is contoured to offer built-in arch support, and the midsole is made of soft, responsive foam for enhanced energy return. Additionally, the midsole includes grid-like grooves to enhance flexibility, while the pod-like tread mimics the bones in your foot for improved grip.
On average, the Provision 6 shoes have received a rating of 3.5/5 stars on Amazon, Zappos, and the Altra website. When properly fitted, many customers find them extremely comfortable and lightweight, praising their grippy outsole. However, some men have reported that the Provision 6 is narrower than previous versions and that the pod-design tread easily traps rocks and mud, making it less suitable for those with wide feet or for trail runners.
Related: Everything You Need to Know to Find the Best Walking Shoes for Men
Pros:
- Certified by the American Podiatric Medical Association to promote foot health
- Flexible midsole
- Grippy outsole
Cons:
- May be too narrow for some
- Tread design may trap debris
Purchase Altra Provision 6
Best Arch Support Shoes for Hiking: Salomon Sense Ride 4
Salomon
- Size range: Men’s 8-14, Women’s 5-12
- Shoe weight: 10 ounces
- Colors: Four
- Price: $120
If you're searching for arch-supporting shoes for hiking, consider the Salomon Sense Ride 4s. These lightweight shoes are designed to keep you safe on any trail, thanks to their all-terrain grip, protective upper film, and impact-reducing foam. These hiking shoes feature a Quicklace lace-up system and are available in four sleek color combinations.
A pair of Sense Ride 4s typically costs around $120. Alternatively, Salomon offers a free membership that provides benefits such as free shipping, special discounts, reward points, and access to member-only products. Upon signing up, you'll also receive 10 percent off your first order and 50 reward points.
There have been mostly positive, but mixed reviews of the Sense Ride 4s. They have a rating of 3.9/5 stars on Salomon's website, and 65 percent of reviewers on Zappos rated them 4/5 stars or better. Some customers on the Salomon website have reported that the tongue of the shoe is too stiff or even painful, but the majority praise the grip, versatility, and comfort.
Pros:
- Designed for mixed terrain
- Good grip
Cons:
- Some people find the tongue to be uncomfortable
- The laces can slip or get caught on debris
Purchase Salomon Sense Ride 4 Men’s | Women’s
Skechers Go Walk Speed Walker
Best for Fitness Walking
Saucony Tempus
Best Cushioning
Rykä Devotion X
Best Female-Specific Fit
Asics GT-1000 11
Best Value
Hoka Clifton 9
Best Overall
In conclusion, finding the best walking shoes with arch support is essential for maintaining foot health and preventing discomfort. With the array of options available, it's crucial to consider factors such as arch type, cushioning, and stability when making a choice. Whether you're looking for walking shoes, shoes for high arches, or shoes to alleviate plantar fasciitis, brands like Skechers, New Balance, and Brooks have got you covered. Remember, investing in quality arch support shoes can make all the difference in the world for a comfortable and enjoyable walking experience. So, lace up and step out with confidence knowing that your feet are well-cared for.
