Striding with the best running shoes for high arches is an entirely surreal experience. If you have this issue, running must have always been a pain, as your feet will cramp up quickly. With the help of the right shoes, however, you can run just as well as normal people.
There are just too many kinds of shoes available on the market. Determining a suitable option has become quite a challenge. That is why we put together this list to show you the best ones and the reason why we chose them.
Related post: Best Running Shoes for Supination
The Best Running Shoes For High Arches
Here are the 10 best options for runners with high arches. Each of these has a unique set of strengths and weaknesses.
1. Brooks Ghost 15 - Best Overall
What we like
What should be improved
The Brooks Ghost is a great option for runners with high arches because it offers a combination of comfort, support, and cushioning. The shoe features a BioMoGo DNA cushioning system that adapts to your individual stride, providing excellent shock absorption and support where you need it most.
The shoe also has a 3D Fit Print upper that conforms to your foot for a comfortable and secure fit. This helps to reduce pressure points and provide a supportive and stable ride, which is important for runners with high arches who may be more prone to injuries or discomfort.
In addition, the Brooks Ghost 15 has a durable outsole that provides good traction and grip, which is important for maintaining stability and preventing slips or falls during your run. The shoe also has a midfoot transition zone that helps to promote a smooth and efficient stride, which can help to reduce fatigue and improve your overall running experience.
Overall, the combination of cushioning, support, and stability make the Brooks Ghost 15 an excellent choice for runners with high arches who are looking for a comfortable and reliable running shoe.
2. ASICS Gel-Kayano 29
What we like
What should be improved
The ASICS Gel-Kayano 29 is a great option for runners with high arches because it offers a high level of support, cushioning, and stability. The shoe features ASICS' Dynamic Duomax technology which helps to control overpronation, providing a more stable and supportive platform for the foot.
The Gel-Kayano 29 also features an Impact Guidance System (IGS) that helps to guide the foot through a more natural gait cycle, promoting a smoother and more efficient stride. This is especially important for runners with high arches, who may be more prone to injuries and discomfort if their gait is not properly aligned.
The shoe also has a FluidRide midsole that provides excellent cushioning and shock absorption, which helps to reduce the impact on the foot and lower leg. This is important for runners with high arches, who may be more susceptible to injuries such as plantar fasciitis or stress fractures.
In addition, the ASICS Gel-Kayano 29 has a breathable mesh upper that provides good ventilation and helps to keep the foot cool and dry during your run. The shoe also has a durable outsole that provides good traction and grip, which is important for maintaining stability and preventing slips or falls.
3. Saucony Triumph 19
What we like
What should be improved
The Saucony Triumph is an excellent option for runners with high arches because it offers a high level of cushioning and support. The shoe features a PWRRUN+ midsole that provides a plush and responsive feel, absorbing impact and providing excellent shock absorption.
The Triumph 19 also has a FORMFIT performance contoured footbed that conforms to the foot for a custom fit, reducing pressure points and providing a supportive and stable ride. This is important for runners with high arches, who may need more support and cushioning to prevent discomfort and injuries.
In addition, the shoe has a TRI-FLEX outsole that provides excellent flexibility and traction, promoting a natural and efficient stride. This is especially important for runners with high arches, who may benefit from a shoe that allows for a more natural foot motion.
The Saucony Triumph 19 also features an ISOFIT upper that adapts to the shape and movement of your foot, providing a comfortable and secure fit. The upper is also breathable, helping to keep your feet cool and dry during your run.
Overall, the combination of cushioning, support, and flexibility make the Saucony Triumph 19 an excellent choice for runners with high arches who are looking for a comfortable and reliable running shoe.
4. Hoka One One Bondi 8
Pros
Cons
The Hoka One One Bondi 8 is a highly cushioned running shoe that provides excellent support and comfort for runners with high arches.
The shoe features a full-length EVA midsole that provides excellent cushioning and shock absorption, which is important for runners with high arches who may need more support and cushioning to prevent discomfort and injuries.
The Bondi 8 also has a Meta-Rocker design that promotes a smooth and efficient stride, reducing stress on the foot and lower leg. This is especially important for runners with high arches, who may be more susceptible to injuries such as plantar fasciitis or stress fractures.
The shoe also has a breathable mesh upper that provides good ventilation and helps to keep the foot cool and dry during your run. The upper also features a molded OrthoLite sockliner that provides additional cushioning and support, reducing pressure points and improving comfort.
In addition, the Hoka One One Bondi 8 has a durable outsole that provides good traction and grip, which is important for maintaining stability and preventing slips or falls. The shoe also features a wide platform that provides a stable base for the foot, which is important for runners with high arches who may need more stability to prevent overpronation or other gait issues.
5. New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080v12
Pros
Cons
The New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080 is a great option for runners with high arches. The shoe features a Fresh Foam midsole that provides a plush and responsive feel, absorbing impact and providing excellent shock absorption.
The 1080v12 also has a Hypoknit upper that conforms to the foot for a custom fit, reducing pressure points and providing a supportive and stable ride. This is important for runners with high arches, who may need more support and cushioning to prevent discomfort and injuries.
In addition, the shoe has a blown rubber outsole that provides good traction and grip, which is important for maintaining stability and preventing slips or falls during your run. The outsole is also flexible, allowing for a more natural and efficient foot motion.
The New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080v12 also features a 3D heel design that helps to lock the foot in place, providing additional stability and support. The shoe also has a seamless construction that helps to reduce irritation and rubbing, making it a comfortable option for runners with sensitive feet.
6. Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 39
Pros
Cons
The Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 39 is a versatile running shoe that offers a combination of comfort, support, and responsiveness, making it a great choice for runners with high arches.
The Air Zoom Pegasus 39 features a full-length Air Zoom unit in the midsole that provides excellent cushioning and responsiveness, reducing the impact on the foot and lower leg. This is important for runners with high arches, who may need more cushioning to absorb shock and prevent discomfort.
The shoe has a breathable mesh upper that provides good ventilation and helps to keep the foot cool and dry during your run. This can be especially beneficial for runners with high arches, who may be more prone to sweating or overheating.
The outsole of the Air Zoom Pegasus 39 is made from durable rubber, providing good traction and grip on a variety of surfaces. This can help to maintain stability and prevent slips or falls during your run.
The shoe has a padded collar and tongue that provide extra cushioning and support around the ankle, reducing the risk of injuries such as sprains or strains.
7. Mizuno Wave Rider 26
Pros
Cons
The Mizuno Wave Rider 26 is a popular running shoe that offers a combination of support, cushioning, and stability, making it a great choice for runners with high arches. Here are some reasons why the Mizuno Wave Rider 26 is a good option:
Wave Plate Technology: The Wave Rider 26 features Mizuno's Wave Plate technology, which provides excellent cushioning and stability. The Wave Plate is a unique midsole design that absorbs shock and provides a supportive platform for the foot. This can be especially important for runners with high arches, who may need more support to prevent discomfort and injuries.
XPOP Midsole: The shoe also features Mizuno's XPOP midsole technology, which provides excellent energy return and cushioning. The XPOP foam material is soft and responsive, providing a comfortable and responsive ride that can help reduce the impact on the foot and lower leg.
DynamotionFit Upper: The Wave Rider 26 has a DynamotionFit upper that adapts to the shape and movement of your foot, providing a comfortable and secure fit. This is especially important for runners with high arches, who may need more support and stability to prevent discomfort or injuries.
Durable Outsole: The shoe has a durable outsole made from a combination of rubber and carbon, providing excellent traction and grip on a variety of surfaces. This can help maintain stability and prevent slips or falls during your run.
Breathable Mesh Upper: The Wave Rider 26 has a breathable mesh upper that provides good ventilation and helps to keep your feet cool and dry during your run. This can be especially beneficial for runners with high arches, who may be more prone to sweating or overheating.
8. Brooks Glycerin 20
Pros
Cons
The Brooks Glycerin 20 is a popular running shoe that offers a combination of cushioning, support, and flexibility, making it a great choice for runners with high arches. Here are some reasons why the Brooks Glycerin 20 is a good option:
DNA LOFT Cushioning: The Glycerin 20 features Brooks' DNA LOFT cushioning, which provides a soft and plush feeling underfoot. This cushioning technology is great for runners with high arches who need extra support and comfort to absorb shock and prevent discomfort.
OrthoLite Sockliner: The shoe also features an OrthoLite sockliner, which provides additional cushioning and support to the foot. This can help to reduce pressure on the arch and provide a more comfortable and secure fit.
3D Fit Print: The Glycerin 20 has a 3D Fit Print upper that adapts to the shape and movement of your foot, providing a comfortable and supportive fit. This can be especially important for runners with high arches, who may need more support and stability to prevent discomfort or injuries.
Flexible Outsole: The shoe has a flexible outsole that allows for a natural range of motion, promoting a more efficient and comfortable running experience. This can be beneficial for runners with high arches, who may need a shoe that adapts to their natural foot movement.
Breathable Upper: The Glycerin 20 has a breathable upper made from engineered mesh that provides good ventilation and helps to keep your feet cool and dry during your run. This can be especially beneficial for runners with high arches, who may be more prone to sweating or overheating.
Overall, the Brooks Glycerin 20 is a great choice for runners with high arches who are looking for a comfortable and supportive running shoe. The combination of DNA LOFT cushioning, OrthoLite sockliner, 3D Fit Print upper, flexible outsole, and breathable upper make it a versatile and reliable option for a variety of running activities.
9. Saucony Omni 21
Pros
Cons
The Saucony Omni 21 is a stability running shoe that is designed to provide support, cushioning, and stability for runners with high arches. Here are some reasons why the Saucony Omni 21 is a good option for runners with high arches:
Stability: The Omni 21 features a medial post that helps to prevent overpronation and provides additional support and stability for runners with high arches.
Cushioning: The shoe features Saucony's PWRRUN cushioning technology, which is a soft and responsive foam material that provides excellent shock absorption and energy return. This can be beneficial for runners with high arches, who may need extra cushioning to absorb the impact of their stride.
Comfortable Fit: The Omni 21 has a FORMFIT design that conforms to the shape and movement of your foot, providing a comfortable and secure fit. This can be especially important for runners with high arches, who may need a shoe that adapts to their foot shape and provides extra support.
Durable Outsole: The shoe has a durable rubber outsole that provides good traction and grip on a variety of surfaces, helping to maintain stability and prevent slips or falls.
Breathable Upper: The Omni 21 has a breathable upper made from engineered mesh that provides good ventilation and helps to keep your feet cool and dry during your run. This can be especially beneficial for runners with high arches, who may be more prone to sweating or overheating.
The Omni 21 is a great option for runners who overpronate, but it may not be suitable for runners who have a neutral gait.
Overall, the Saucony Omni 21 is a great choice for runners with high arches who are looking for a stability shoe that provides support, cushioning, and comfort. The combination of stability features, cushioning technology, comfortable fit, durable outsole, and breathable upper make it a reliable option for a variety of running activities.
10. Altra paradigm 6
Pros
Cons
The Altra Paradigm 6 is a running shoe that is designed to provide a natural and comfortable feel while also providing support and cushioning for runners with high arches. Here are some reasons why the Altra Paradigm 6 is a good option:
FootShape Toe Box: The shoe features Altra's FootShape toe box, which provides extra room for your toes to splay and move naturally. This can be beneficial for runners with high arches, who may have wider feet or need extra room to prevent discomfort.
Zero Drop Platform: The Altra Paradigm 6 has a zero drop platform, which means that there is no difference in height between the heel and toe of the shoe. This can be beneficial for runners with high arches, as it promotes a natural foot strike and helps to reduce pressure on the arch.
Max-LT Cushioning: The shoe features Max-LT cushioning, which is a lightweight and responsive foam material that provides excellent shock absorption and energy return. This can be beneficial for runners with high arches, who may need extra cushioning to absorb the impact of their stride.
Stabilipod Technology: The Altra Paradigm 6 features Stabilipod technology, which is a system of three stability pods that provide extra support and stability to the foot. This can be beneficial for runners with high arches, who may need extra support to prevent overpronation or discomfort.
Breathable Upper: The shoe has a breathable upper made from engineered mesh that provides good ventilation and helps to keep your feet cool and dry during your run. This can be especially beneficial for runners with high arches, who may be more prone to sweating or overheating.
Overall, the Altra Paradigm 6 is a great choice for runners with high arches who are looking for a natural and comfortable running shoe that also provides support and cushioning. The combination of FootShape toe box, zero drop platform, Max-LT cushioning, Stabilipod technology, and breathable upper make it a reliable option for a variety of running activities.
How To Pick The Best Running Shoes For High Arches
Below are some things that you need to check for to get the best high arch options.
Support And Cushioning
Cushioning has always been among the most vital parts of any type of running shoes. And it is especially important for people with higher arches.
Aside from the usual types of cushioning, you will need some extra support for your arch. A good solution is a thicker midsole and padding materials that are neither soft nor firm.
The thick midsole will prevent the high arch from collapsing each time you put your feet on the ground. Believe us; you never want to experience that type of pain.
Having the correct cushion material gives you a humongous advantage. If it is too soft, there will be no proper feedback, and this can lead to overexertion. On the other hand, the materials being too firm will hurt your feet.
Stabilizing Features
There is a multitude of technologies designers make use of to keep your foot from excessive motions. On the tip of the tongue, you have varus wedges, dual-density foam, wider shoe geometries, medial posts, etc.
These options all have one single common goal, providing absolute stability as well as control. Moreover, they have a side benefit of preventing your foot from rolling inward. That is why we consider them as one of the most necessary aspects to look for if you have higher arches.
The Sock Liner
Sock liners are removable foam pads inside your shoes. Their main job is cushioning the contours of your foot’s bottom part. In other words, they are there to provide arch support for people suffering from high arches.
Many manufacturers tend to overlook this simple yet incredibly important part of the shoes. Fortunately, as they are removable, you can easily change them with something more suitable for your feet.
Toe Spring And Flex Grooves
These necessities are more for general running shoes than specific ones like sneakers for high arches. Nevertheless, we still decide to put them here because they decide whether you can run properly.
Adequate flex grooves under your shoes will make it capable of bending like your real foot. Also, the toe spring is the name of a practice where they either turn the toe up or cut the midsole. They must cut it in a specific way, which is a rocker pattern in this case. This design will allow your foot to naturally roll through each stride.
FAQs
While doing research for this article, we stumbled upon some interesting questions. We hope that you can find some use from them.
What Kind Of Problems Are Caused By High Arches?
There are quite a lot of issues that have the cause being high arches. Among them, the most known ones are Metatarsalgia and plantar fasciitis. Both of these issues can severely limit your capability as a runner.
You will also have to deal with some less serious, but still annoying problems like hammertoes and claw toes. They are the main cause for ankle sprains while running.
The heels always pointing toward the body’s center are also just too dangerous. Running like this for a while and you will notice an intense pain in your heel.
Which Is Less Serious, High Arches, Or Flat Feet?
Each of these types has its own set of issues. For the flat feet, the soft tissues get hurt easily each time you place your feet down. The result is foot-related health problems such as runner’s knee and Achilles tendinopathy.
We have already explained the issues caused by higher arches above, like claw toes and hammer toes. While this issue causes less pain, the potential result is much more serious.
Find out more about knee pain and best running shoes for knee pain vs 10 best running shoes for flat feet and Running Shoes For Shin Splints
How Do High Arches Limit Me From Running?
As high arches cause your feet to clamp up, you will be running with stiff legs. There is no way to bend the knees properly, limiting the speed you can go at.
My top picks
After reading through this buying guide for the best running shoes for high arches, we hope that you now have a clear choice. As long as you can focus on the cushioning and comfort, you cannot go wrong. Remember, some sacrifice in speed is never as important as your body’s well-being.
If you are still unsure what to choose, we recommend testing the water with the Under Armour Charged Assert 8. They will provide your feet with a 12 mm offset, good enough for almost all types of high arches.
Leave a Reply