We Tested the Best Walking Shoes for High Arches that Offer Miles of Comfort

High arches can be associated with several painful problems, like pressure calluses, ankle sprains, stress fractures, and more, says podiatrist Adam B. Hicks, DPM. This is because people with high arches typically have a more rigid foot, which puts increased pressure on the forefoot, the heel, and the ankle. Luckily, the best walking shoes for high arches are designed with extra stability and cushioning to support your foot shape.

To find the best options on the market, we first consulted foot and shoe experts to learn more about high arches and what key features to consider when shopping. Then, we researched dozens of walking shoes for high arches from top brands to narrow down our list. We also tested five expert-approved walking shoes for high arches for ourselves, evaluating each one for fit, comfort, stability, responsiveness, cushioning, and overall value.

Top Picks

Best Men's Overall:
SALE
Orthofeet Lava Stretch-Knit Athletic Shoe at Amazon $145 $110
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Best Women's Overall:
Skechers Go Walk Arch Fit at Amazon $80
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Best Women's Budget:
SALE
ASICS Gel-Venture 9 at Amazon $75 $60
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Best for Long Walks:
SALE
Brooks Women's Ghost 16 Running Shoes at Amazon $140 $98
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Best for Fitness Walking:
Brooks Adrenaline GTS 23 at Amazon $140
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Best Men's Budget:
SALE
New Balance 577 V1 Lace-up Walking Shoe at Amazon $85 $65
Jump to Review
Best for Work:
Skechers Arch Fit Work Jake at Amazon $105
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Best for Underpronators:
SALE
Asics Gel-Cumulus 26 at Amazon $140 $112
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Best for Overpronators:
SALE
New Balance 847v4 at Amazon $150 $58
Jump to Review
Best Walking Sandals:
Hoka Men's Hopara 2 Sandal at Amazon
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Best Men's Overall

Orthofeet Lava Stretch-Knit Athletic Shoe

Orthofeet Lava Stretch-Knit Athletic
Credit: Amazon
$145
$110 at Amazon View on Zappos View on Orthofeet.com
Pros

  • Removable insoles

  • Seamless interior eliminates irritation

  • Foam cushioning is bouncy

Cons

  • Expensive

Key Specs:

Material: Knit upper, rubber sole Cushioning: Foam Closure: Lace-up Sizes: Men's 7–14 (regular, wide, extra-wide) Our Overall Rating: 4.8/5

Who They're For

Best if you want a supportive shoe for long walks and daily wear.

Why We Love Them

Orthofeet’s Lava Stretch-Knit Athletic Shoes are our top men's pick for high arches because they offer a cozy, non-binding fit that promises comfort and support. The shoe's knit upper is padded with a soft foam that provides low-pressure cushioning. This, combined with the sneakers’ wide toe box, helped us feel like we were walking on clouds while minimizing the pressure on bunions and hammertoes.

The protective, seam-free interior further eliminates pressure and friction, offering comfort while helping to stabilize our foot. The shoes also boast a cushioned sole, an orthotic insole, and air pockets in the heel. We found that these elements offer targeted support in areas where wearers with high-arched feet are likely to experience pain.

Potential Flaws

  • These shoes are one of the pricier pairs on our list, but we think they're worth it for the comfort, support, and quality.
  • Orthofeet Lava Stretch-Knit Athletic Shoe
    Orthofeet Lava shoes have a cushioned sole, an orthotic insole, and air pockets in the heel. Credit: Verywell Fit
  • Orthofeet Lava Stretch-Knit Athletic Shoe
    The Orthofeet Lava’s wide toe box minimizes pressure on bunions and hammertoes. Credit: Verywell Fit
  • Orthofeet Lava Stretch-Knit Athletic Shoes
    Orthofeet’s Lava Stretch-Knit Athletic Shoes have high arches and a cozy, non-binding fit. Credit: Verywell Fit
  • Orthofeet Lava Stretch-Knit Athletic Shoe
    The Lava shoe has padding in the knit upper to provide low-pressure cushioning. Credit: Verywell Fit
  • Orthofeet Lava Stretch-Knit Athletic Shoe
    During testing, we cut the walking shoes in half to get an inside look at the cushioning. Credit: Verywell Fit
  • Orthofeet Lava Stretch-Knit Athletic Shoe
  • Orthofeet Lava Stretch-Knit Athletic Shoe
  • Orthofeet Lava Stretch-Knit Athletic Shoes
  • Orthofeet Lava Stretch-Knit Athletic Shoe
  • Orthofeet Lava Stretch-Knit Athletic Shoe

Best Women's Overall

Skechers Go Walk Arch Fit

Skechers Women's Go Walk Arch Fit
Credit: Zappos
$80 at Amazon
Pros

  • Breathable mesh upper

  • Removable insoles

  • Good shock absorption

Cons

  • May run narrow

Key Specs:

Material: Mesh upper, rubber sole Cushioning: Foam Closure: Slip-on Sizes: Women's 5–13 (regular, wide) Our Overall Rating: 4.5/5

Who They're For

Best if you want a supportive, slip-on shoe for casual, everyday wear.

Why We Love Them

After testing, we're confident Skechers' Go Walk Arch Fit Shoes are the best overall women's shoes for high arches. We love the simple, stylish, slip-on design and the light mesh upper that maximizes airflow for an easy, airy wear. While walking on the treadmill, the thick midsole padding felt ultra-comfortable and responsive, helping propel us forward with each step. It also aligned our feet and offered excellent stability.

With removable insoles, these shoes are ideal if you need custom orthotics. The insole itself absorbs shock well, protecting your feet and joints from discomfort. They are machine-washable, making them easy to care for and a great choice for travel. We also love the variety of colors available.

Also available in men's sizes at Amazon.

Potential Flaws

  • We found that these shoes run a bit narrow, so you might want to consider sizing up if you're in-between sizes.
  • Person walking on treadmill wearing Skechers Women's Go Walk Arch Fit
    Skechers Go Walk Arch Fit shoes provided good responsiveness during treadmill walks. Credit: Verywell Fit
  • Skechers Women's Go Walk Arch Fit on treadmill
    Pull tabs at the heel make Go Walk Arch Fit Grateful shoes easy to slip on quickly. Credit: Verywell Fit
  • Person wearing Skechers Women's Go Walk Arch Fit on carpet
    Skechers Women's Go Walk Arch Fit shoes offer ample cushioning that helps hold feet securely. Credit: Verywell Fit
  • Person slicing Skechers Women's Go Walk Arch Fit in half
    During testing, we cut the shoes in half to inspect the layers of cushioning in the sole. Credit: Verywell Fit
  • Hands holding Skechers Women's Go Walk Arch Fit
    Go Walk Arch Fit combines foot-friendly features with everyday wearability. Credit: Verywell Fit
  • Person walking on treadmill wearing Skechers Women's Go Walk Arch Fit
  • Skechers Women's Go Walk Arch Fit on treadmill
  • Person wearing Skechers Women's Go Walk Arch Fit on carpet
  • Person slicing Skechers Women's Go Walk Arch Fit in half
  • Hands holding Skechers Women's Go Walk Arch Fit

Best Women's Budget

ASICS Gel-Venture 9

ASICS Women's Gel-Venture 9 Running Shoes
Credit: Amazon
$75
$60 at Amazon
Pros

  • Good shock absorption

  • Durable, grippy sole

  • Versatile for treadmills and trails

Cons

  • Narrow toe box

Key Specs:

Material: Mesh and synthetic upper, rubber sole Cushioning: Foam Closure: Lace-up Sizes: Women's 5–12, (regular, wide) Our Overall Rating: 5/5

Who They're For

Best if you need a versatile shoe that can support you on treadmills and on the trails.

Why We Love Them

Asics’ Gel Venture 9 Trail Running Shoe is a versatile, budget-friendly option that can replace several pairs of shoes. Designed for performance trail running, it also works well for leisure walking, fitness walking, and everyday use. Its lightweight cushioning and grippy traction pattern keep us comfortable, supported, and stable both on the treadmill and on the trails.

On test walks and runs, we found that the gel-infused heel and foam midsole reduce pressure and increase rebound with each stride. The sole features an internal heel counter that keeps your foot in natural alignment, which is particularly helpful for combating underpronation, says podiatrist Paul Greenberg, DPM. We also love that the shoe has a moisture-wicking, removable sock liner that molds to your foot for a snug, custom-like fit.

Also available in men's sizes at Asics and Amazon.

Potential Flaws

  • The toe box on these shoes can run narrow, so consider ordering a wide width if you need the room.
  • Feet wearing Asics Gel Venture 9 Shoes on rocks and grass
    The Gel-Venture 9 has a breathable mesh upper and comes in lots of colorways. Credit: Verywell Fit
  • ASICS Women's Gel-Venture 9 Running Shoes displayed next to weights on a treadmill
    The Asics Gel-Venture 9 features foam and gel cushioning in both the front and rear areas. Credit: Verywell Fit
  • Feet wearing Asics Gel Venture 9 Shoes on rocks and grass
  • ASICS Women's Gel-Venture 9 Running Shoes displayed next to weights on a treadmill

Best for Long Walks

Brooks Women's Ghost 16 Running Shoes

Amazon Brooks Women's Ghost 16 Running Shoes
Credit: Amazon
$140
$98 at Amazon
$140
$100 at Nordstrom
$140
$100 at Dicks Sporting Goods
Pros

  • Good shock absorption

  • APMA Seal of Acceptance

  • Certified carbon neutral

Cons

  • May be too heavy for some

Key Specs:

Material: Mesh upper, rubber sole Cushioning: Foam Closure: Lace-up Sizes: Women's 5–13 (regular, narrow, wide, extra-wide) Our Overall Rating: 4.8/5

Who They're For

Best if you're on your feet all day, whether for sightseeing or long commutes.

Why We Love Them

Brooks' Ghost 16 Shoes are APMA-approved, meaning a team of podiatrists has determined they help promote good foot health. And after rigorous testing, we can confidently agree. While they're designed as running shoes, we found the features we're looking for in a quality walking shoe for high arches. The mesh upper delivers breathability and security, while a wide toe box lets us spread our toes for more stability.

While logging miles on the sidewalk and treadmill, we noticed that the soft, foam midsole is thick enough to protect our joints, quickly making this one of our favorite comfy sneakers. We also found that the shoe offers neutral support, aligning your feet without feeling too bulky and uncomfortable. Plus, these are certified carbon neutral, meaning they're a good choice for the environment.

Also available in men's sizes at Dick's Sporting Goods and Brooks.

Potential Flaws

  • We noticed that these felt slightly heavier than other pairs we tested, but this never slowed us down or hindered our stride.
  • A person runs outside in grass while wearing the Brooks Women's Ghost 16 Running Shoes
    Brooks Women's Ghost 16 Running Shoe is known for its smooth ride and comfortable fit. Credit: Verywell Fit
  • An overhead view of the Brooks Women's Ghost 16 Running Shoes in grass
    The shoe's mesh upper delivers breathability and security, while the wide toe box adds stability. Credit: Verywell Fit
  • A person stretches outside in grass while wearing the Brooks Women's Ghost 16 Running Shoes
    Brooks Women's Ghost 16 Running Shoes have excellent shock absorption to prevent shin splints. Credit: Verywell Fit
  • A person runs outside in grass while wearing the Brooks Women's Ghost 16 Running Shoes
  • An overhead view of the Brooks Women's Ghost 16 Running Shoes in grass
  • A person stretches outside in grass while wearing the Brooks Women's Ghost 16 Running Shoes

Best for Fitness Walking

Brooks Adrenaline GTS 23

Brooks Women's Adrenaline GTS 23 Running Shoe
Credit: Amazon
$140
$133 at Amazon
$140
$65 at Dicks Sporting Goods View on Roadrunnersports.com
Pros

  • Good for overpronators

  • Breathable mesh upper

  • Lightweight cushioning

Cons

  • Narrower toe box

Key Specs:

Material: Mesh upper, rubber sole Cushioning: Foam Closure: Lace-up Sizes: Women's 5–12 (regular, narrow, wide, extra-wide) Our Overall Rating: 4.3/5

Who They're For

Best for wearers who like to walk for exercise, whether on treadmills, trails, or elliptical machines.

Why We Love Them

Brooks Adrenaline GTS 23 Running Shoes are specifically designed for those with medium to high arches. We found that the midsole cushioning responds to every stride, cutting down on pressure and pain in your foot. And an engineered mesh upper offers structure and stability without feeling bulky. One of our favorite Brooks running shoes, these are versatile enough for fitness walks, hours of standing, and even working out.

If you struggle with instability, you’ll appreciate the ample arch support and built-in stabilization technology that prevents excessive side-to-side movement. We also like that the durable, grippy rubber outsole ensures safety on various surfaces without slipping. While walking, we noticed that the mild rocker shape helps propel us forward, reducing foot fatigue on long walks. And since we loved these so much, we’re happy they come in over 15 different colors.

Also available in men's sizes at Brooks, Amazon, and Dick's Sporting Goods.

Potential Flaws

  • These have a narrower toe box than some other options, but sizes up to extra-wide are available to help you find a comfy fit.
  • A person running outdoors wearing the Brooks Adrenaline GTS 23
    Brooks Adrenaline GTS 23 Shoes work great from treadmills to tracks to pavement. Credit: Verywell Fit
  • The Brooks Adrenaline GTS 23 sneakers on a shiny yellow surface
    Brooks Adrenaline GTS 23 Running Shoes are specifically designed for medium to high arches. Credit: Verywell Fit
  • A close up of the sole of the Brooks Adrenaline GTS 23 sneakers
    Brooks' Adrenaline GTS 23 Shoes offer a superior fit that feels good on longer runs. Credit: Verywell Fit
  • A close up of the back half of the Brooks Adrenaline GTS 23
    The Adrenaline GTS 23 earned the American Podiatric Medical Association's Seal of Acceptance. Credit: Verywell Fit
  • A close up of the sole of the Brooks Adrenaline GTS 23 on feet walking on stone surface
    Brooks' Adrenaline GTS 23 Shoe features guide rails that prevent feet from rolling inward. Credit: Verywell Fit
  • The Brooks Adrenaline GTS 23 being cut in half by a power saw
    We cut the Brooks Adrenaline GTS 23 in half to evaluate its interior cushioning. Credit: Verywell Fit
  • Hands holding half of the Brooks Adrenaline GTS 23 sneaker
    The Adrenaline GTS 23 features a grippy outsole and responsive midsole cushioning. Credit: Verywell Fit
  • A person running outdoors wearing the Brooks Adrenaline GTS 23
  • The Brooks Adrenaline GTS 23 sneakers on a shiny yellow surface
  • A close up of the sole of the Brooks Adrenaline GTS 23 sneakers
  • A close up of the back half of the Brooks Adrenaline GTS 23
  • A close up of the sole of the Brooks Adrenaline GTS 23 on feet walking on stone surface
  • The Brooks Adrenaline GTS 23 being cut in half by a power saw
  • Hands holding half of the Brooks Adrenaline GTS 23 sneaker

Bonus Favorites

Although we didn’t test the following shoes, we still think they’re worthwhile options to consider. They have many of the same key features that we love about the pairs we’ve tried ourselves.

Best Men's Budget

New Balance 577 V1 Lace-up Walking Shoe

New Balance Men's 577 V1 Lace-up Walking Shoe
Credit: Amazon
$85
$65 at Amazon
$85
$77 at Zappos View on Walmart
Pros

  • Sleek, streetwear style

  • Durable leather upper

  • Reflective detailing on heel for safety

Cons

  • May not be very breathable

  • Not for fitness walking

Key Specs:

Material: Leather upper, rubber sole Cushioning: Polyurethane Closure: Lace-up Sizes: Men's 7–15 (regular, wide, extra-wide)

Who They're For

Best if you want a sleek, lifestyle sneaker that's great for light walks and everyday wear.

Why We Love Them

New Balance's Men’s 577 Shoe is comfortable, supportive, and durable—not to mention budget-friendly. Its midsole is cushioned with polyurethane to offer a comfy, supportive fit. And, we love that the shoe's heel is crafted from a blend of supple foam and shock-absorbing rubber that promises to cushion the foot and reduce pressure on the heel during wear. 

This shoe was designed with walking in mind, but the all-leather exterior makes it stylish enough for day-to-day wear. It also adds durability—so these should last for many miles. The reflective detailing enhances visibility if you like to go for early morning or evening walks. And we love that these shoes come in black or white and have a hook-and-loop closure option.

Also available in women's sizes at New Balance and Amazon.

Potential Flaws

  • The leather upper makes these shoes very durable, but it also means they're not as breathable as other options.
  • These are not responsive enough for efficient strides during fitness walking.

Best for Work

Skechers Arch Fit Work Jake

Sketchers Men's Arch Fit Work Jake
Credit: Amazon
$105 at Amazon
Pros

  • Sleek, stylish design

  • Stain-repellent upper

  • Reliable, grippy traction

Cons

  • Laces aren't adjustable

Key Specs:

Material: Synthetic upper, rubber sole Cushioning: Foam Closure: Slip-on Size: Men's 7–14

Who They're For

Best for wearers who are active or standing a lot at work and need comfort and support.

Why We Love Them

Skechers' Work Arch Fit Jake Shoes offer just as much support as they do style. The synthetic upper is stain- and water-repellent, making these our top choice for work and everyday wear. We also like that the front laces stretch, so you can easily slip them on and off. And the footbed is cushioned with arch support in mind, while the rubber outsole features reliable traction for stability and safety.

The removable insole allows you to customize the fit and support underfoot, while the tall heel collar provides added support around your ankle. Although they may feel a little heavier on the foot than some other shoes on our list, this adds lateral stability and durability. These are a solid, budget-friendly choice to support your high arches every day.

Potential Flaws

  • The stretch lace slip-on design is convenient but doesn't allow for any adjustability.

Best for Underpronators

Asics Gel-Cumulus 26

Zappos Asics Gel-Cumulus 26 Women's Running Shoes
Credit: Zappos
$140
$112 at Amazon
$140
$100 at Zappos View on Dicks Sporting Goods
Pros

  • Breathable mesh upper

  • Shock absorbing

  • Comfortable heel design

Cons

  • May not have enough cushioning

Key Specs:

Material: Mesh upper, rubber sole Cushioning: Foam, gel Closure: Lace-up Sizes: Women's 5–8 (regular, wide)

Who They're For

Best for wearers who need running shoes to support a more neutral alignment.

Why We Love Them

Asics' Gel-Cumulus 26 Shoe is ideal for underpronators because it balances sturdy support with soft cushioning. Gel technology in the midsole provides shock absorption and softer landings. And we love that its comfortable sock liner reduces irritation to prevent unwanted blisters. Available in a wide range of colors and sizes, this sneaker also has a durable rubber outsole that will last for miles and miles of walking.

The thick and plush foam midsole helps propel you forward with every step, while the lightweight mesh upper allows air to flow to keep your feet cool and dry. This newest version of the Cumulus has a slightly leaned-back heel design that provides better comfort and less chafing. We also like the reflective details, which will keep you visible when walking outdoors in low-light conditions.

Also available in men's sizes at Asics and Amazon.

Potential Flaws

  • Some wearers report this new version of the Cumulus has less cushioning than previous versions, but you can always add custom insoles for more support.
  • A person standing on floor wears Asics Gel-Cumulus 26 Women's Running Shoes
    Asics' Gel-Cumulus 26 Shoe balances support with thick midsole cushioning. Credit: Verywell Fit
  • Closer view of Asics Gel-Cumulus 26 Women's Running Shoes as pedaling the cycle
    The Asics Gel-Cumulus 26 sneaker has a durable rubber outsole and a comfy sock lining. Credit: Verywell Fit
  • A person standing on floor wears Asics Gel-Cumulus 26 Women's Running Shoes
  • Closer view of Asics Gel-Cumulus 26 Women's Running Shoes as pedaling the cycle

Best for Overpronators

New Balance 847v4

New Balance Women's 847v4
Credit: Amazon
$150
$58 at Amazon
$150
$105 at Zappos View on Shoemall.com
Pros

  • Available in five widths

  • Solid stability

  • Good traction

Cons

  • May run small

Key Specs:

Material: Mesh and leather upper, rubber sole Cushioning: Foam Closure: Lace-up Sizes: Women's 6–11 (regular, narrow, wide, extra-wide, XX-wide)

Who They're For

Best if you need extra support to stay in a neutral alignment and avoid rolling your ankles.

Why We Love Them

For overpronators, New Balance's 847v4 Shoe offers superior stability. The responsive midsole is comfortable (even when you're on your feet all day), while a heel insert moves with you to gently support your stride. There's also a stability post built into the midsole to help reduce unnecessary foot rolling as you walk, keeping your feet in alignment and reducing strain and stress.

A rubber outsole with plenty of traction makes these sneakers a good choice for walking outdoors on uneven or rough terrain. And the leather and mesh construction is durable yet lightweight and breathable, keeping your feet protected and cool at the same time. We also like that they're available in five widths, ranging from narrow to XX-wide, so finding the right fit is easy.

Also available in men's sizes at Amazon.

Potential Flaws

  • It's worth noting that New Balance recommends sizing a half size up because these shoes tend to run small.
  • A person standing on a road while wearing New Balance 847v4
    The New Balance 847v4 Sneakers are durable and responsive for walks. Credit: Verywell Fit
  • Two feet in New Balance 847v4 on stone from the side
    The New Balance 847v4 Sneakers have a thick midsole that absorbs shock to protect ankles and knees. Credit: Verywell Fit
  • A pair of New Balance 847v4 on a wooden floor
    These walking sneakers have a synthetic leather upper that is broken up by breathable mesh panels. Credit: Verywell Fit
  • A close-up of two feet wearing New Balance 847v4
    The New Balance 847v4 Sneaker comes in four widths and helps prevent overpronation. Credit: Verywell Fit
  • A person standing on a road while wearing New Balance 847v4
  • Two feet in New Balance 847v4 on stone from the side
  • A pair of New Balance 847v4 on a wooden floor
  • A close-up of two feet wearing New Balance 847v4

Best Walking Sandals

Hoka Men's Hopara 2 Sandal

Hoka Men's Hopara 2 Sandal
Credit: Hoka
View on Amazon $140 at Zappos $140 at Nordstrom
Pros

  • Quick-lace system

  • Rubberized foam midsole

  • Good traction

Cons

  • Minimal cushioning

  • No wide sizes

Key Specs:

Material: Synthetic upper, rubber and foam midsole, rubber sole Cushioning: Foam Closure: Quick-lace Sizes: Men's 7–14

Who They're For

Best if you're searching for quality walking sandals for traversing trails, beaches, and low waters.

Why We Love Them

If you need walking sandals for the spring and summer, we recommend Hoka's Hopara 2 Sandals. The sporty design has cutouts to encourage airflow and water drainage, while the rip-stop mesh overlay keeps rocks and debris out—making these a great choice for hiking or walking on the beach. The foam midsole is also coated in rubber for better durability. And a toe cap protects your feet from rocks and rough terrain.

We also like the quick-lace system, which makes slipping these sandals on a breeze. They also have an adjustable heel strap to help you find a snug fit. The thick outsole features 4-millimeter lugs for great traction on wet surfaces. And we appreciate that the midsole is contoured to provide moderate arch support without overcorrecting.

Also available in women's sizes at Hoka and Zappos.

Potential Flaws

  • Even though the midsole is contoured for support, these sandals don't have a lot of cushioning.
  • These sandals aren't available in wide widths, so they may be uncomfortable for those with wider feet.
  • A person stands inside while wearing the Hoka Men's Hopara 2 Sandals
    The Hoka Hopara 2 weighs 12.9 ounces and features a 6-millimeter drop design. Credit: Verywell Fit
  • An overhead view of a pair of Hoka Men's Hopara 2 Sandals
    The Hopara 2's open mesh design offers protection from rocks and debris. Credit: Verywell Fit
  • The treads on the bottom of the Hoka Men's Hopara 2 Sandals
    These sandals have a grippy rubber outsole that provides solid traction on various terrains. Credit: Verywell Fit
  • The back of the Hoka Men's Hopara 2 Sandals
    The Hopara 2 sandals offer toggle laces and a hook-and-loop heel strap for a customizable fit. Credit: Verywell Fit
  • A person stands in grass while wearing the Hoka Men's Hopara 2 Sandals
    The Hopara sandals fit true to size and feature durable, high-quality materials. Credit: Verywell Fit
  • A person wears the Hoka Men's Hopara 2 Sandals outside
    These sandals feature a grippy rubber outsole that provides solid traction on various terrains. Credit: Verywell Fit
  • A person stands inside while wearing the Hoka Men's Hopara 2 Sandals
  • An overhead view of a pair of Hoka Men's Hopara 2 Sandals
  • The treads on the bottom of the Hoka Men's Hopara 2 Sandals
  • The back of the Hoka Men's Hopara 2 Sandals
  • A person stands in grass while wearing the Hoka Men's Hopara 2 Sandals
  • A person wears the Hoka Men's Hopara 2 Sandals outside

What to Look for When Shopping for Walking Shoes for High Arches

  • Cushioning: A cushioned, shock-absorbing base will create malleability as you step, Hicks says. Basically, more cushioning will help cut down on the pressure your foot endures each time you take a step. Look for shoes with thick layers of foam cushioning, gel cushioning, or both that will be comfortable to walk on all day long.
  • Arch Support: Greenberg specifically recommends looking for shoes that bring the ground up to the arch for support. This allows more of the foot to contact the ground, cutting down on pressure in the forefoot, heel, and ankle. Some shoes have built-in support systems that will be enough to relieve the pressure on your feet. Otherwise, you may need to invest in a high-quality pair of insoles to make sure your arch has the right kind of support.
  • Heel: An elevated heel can help to decrease stress in the Achilles tendon, which may feel tight for some people with high arches because they tend to walk more rigidly. Also, a wider heel allows more ground contact, Hicks says. This can cut down on the pressure experienced by the forefoot, the heel, and the ankle.

How We Selected and Tested the Best Walking Shoes for High Arches

To find the best walking shoes for high arches, we researched and tested dozens of pairs from trusted brands. We consulted experts—Hicks and Greenberg—for their opinion on what makes a walking shoe good for walkers with high arches. For the pairs we researched, we reviewed product details and customer reviews, looking for pairs with adequate cushioning, arch support, and quality construction. We also looked for shoes at different price points to meet various needs. Finally, we tested some of our top options, evaluating each based on the following criteria.

  • Quality: After unboxing each pair of shoes, we inspect them for any manufacturing flaws. We perform a bend test to note if the shoes bend at the appropriate place—where your toes bend—and not in the middle. We also note how easy or difficult it is to twist the shoe. A stable shoe should be somewhat stiff and hard to twist. We also note whether the materials feel flimsy and cheap or sturdy and durable.
  • Fit: We then try the shoes on and note if the fit is correct or if we need to size up or down. We note if the shoes feel snug around our midfoot and heel and if there is a thumb's width of space between our toe and the end of the shoe. After wearing the shoes for at least 30 minutes, we note if we feel any pinching, chafing, or hot spots where blisters may form.
  • Comfort: While wearing the walking shoes during our daily routines, we ask ourselves questions like: Were our feet still comfortable after hours of wear? Did we develop any blisters or chafing? Did our feet get sweaty or sticky? We prioritize shoes that help our feet feel good even after a full day of wear.
  • Stability: To evaluate the stability of each pair of shoes, we walk on different types of terrain, such as grass, trails, sidewalks, and carpets, during our test and determine if we feel stable and secure with good traction. We note whether we feel balanced, and if we can easily move through a full range of motion.
  • Responsiveness: Responsive shoes help propel you forward and make long walks feel easier. To evaluate the responsiveness of each pair of shoes, we note whether the shoes provide a rebound or bounce with each step while wearing them. We also evaluate how our feet and legs feel after wearing the shoes for eight or more hours. Are our feet tired, swollen, worn out, or refreshed and comforted?
  • Cushioning: Walking shoes for high arches should be cushioned and supportive to reduce strain. We note how cushioned the shoes feel when we first put them on and after wearing them throughout testing. Does the cushioning hold up over time? Is the arch support adequate and in the right place inside the shoe?
  • Overall Value: Finally, to determine the value of the shoes, we wait to check the price until after completing an evaluation of all other categories. Based on how the shoes performed, do we feel they're priced fairly? Would we only buy them if they were on sale? We also considered whether we would recommend these shoes to friends and family.

Our Experts

We consulted experts at every stage while researching and reporting this story. Their expert insights helped us understand what wearers with high arches should look for in walking shoes. While we choose products independently, input from our experts helps inform our decisions. 

  • Adam B. Hicks, DPM, a board-certified podiatrist and senior associate at Vanderbilt University Medical Center’s Department of Orthopedic Surgery
  • Paul Greenberg, DPM, a board-certified podiatrist at New York University Langone Health

Frequently Asked Questions

What does it mean if you have high arches?

High arch, also called cavus foot, is exactly what it sounds like: when the mid part of your foot is raised, and you may experience a high arch in one or both feet. High arches can cause stress on the heel and ball of the foot so individuals with high arches need extra support designed to provide stability while walking and prevent discomfort.

What are the benefits of shoes made for high arches?

Shoes made for high arches are designed with thicker cushioning and a more flexible sole to keep you from hitting the pavement too hard and provide more support for your ankles and feet. Shoes for high arches are also better at stabilizing your feet so you can walk confidently (and painlessly) for long distances over wet or uneven ground.

How much does a quality pair of walking shoes for high arches cost?

A durable, supportive pair of walking shoes for high arches usually costs anywhere from $75 to $150. Cheaper pairs may not be sturdy enough to withstand constant wear. More expensive shoes might feature thicker cushioning or a more stylish design.

Why Trust Verywell Fit

As a seasoned health and fitness writer for Verywell Fit, Lindsey Lanquist understands how vital quality product recommendations can be. She is careful to recommend products that are reliable, comfortable, and genuinely well-reviewed by those who’ve tried them.

Additional reporting contributed by Sarah Felbin

With over two decades of dance experience, Sarah Felbin loves diving into the latest wellness research. As a health and fitness writer for Verywell Fit, she's passionate about finding products that are of great value and that make life easier.

Both authors used testing insights to help select the top performers for this list.

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2 Sources
Verywell Fit uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read our editorial process to learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.

  1. Williams DS, Tierney RN, Butler RJ. Increased medial longitudinal arch mobility, lower extremity kinematics, and ground reaction forces in high-arched runners. J Athl Train. 2014;49(3):290-296. doi:10.4085/1062-6050-49.3.05

  2. American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons. Cavus foot - (high-arched foot).

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