The 18 Best Walking Shoes for People with High Arches

If you have high arches, it means that less of your foot makes contact with the ground when standing, walking or running, which in turn produces less shock absorption. People with high arches are more prone to ankle injuries, foot pain, plantar fasciitis, hairline fractures, inflammation in the ball of the foot, and hammertoes. The best shoes to help lower the risk of foot-related problems for people with high arches have a roomy toe box, ankle support, and a flexible midfoot with ample cushion for shock absorption.

Based on expert recommendations, we spent three weeks testing shoes to find the best picks for high arches. During hours of wear, we evaluated each pair's fit, stability, responsiveness, cushioning, comfort, quality, and value. Then, we compiled those results to create this list. Lastly, a podiatrist from our Medical Expert Board reviewed this article for medical and scientific accuracy.

Our Top Picks

• Best Overall: KEEN WK400 Walking Shoes
• Best Overall Runner-Up: Dansko Penni Walking Shoe
• Best Budget: Skechers GO WALK Joy Sensational Day Sneaker
• Best All Day: Adidas Ultraboost Light Women's Running Shoe
• Best for Wide Feet: Saucony Women's Integrity Walker 3
• Best for Plantar Fasciitis: On Cloud 5 Women's Running Shoe
• Best for Mild Arch Support: Skechers Go Walk Flex Alani Walking Shoes
• Best for Support: Ryka Devotion X Walking Shoe
• Most Adjustable: Orthofeet Women's Kita Hands-free Athletic Sneakers
• Best Lightweight: Nike Motiva Women's Walking Shoes

What To Look For Before You Shop

High arches don't provide enough shock absorption on their own, so you should look for walking shoes with soft, flexible midsoles and increased sole and cushioning. These types of shoes will have extra rubber incorporated into the sole compared to other walking shoes, which translates to a smoother and bouncier gait.

Soft, flexible midsoles are great because they allow for more foot motion. Shoes should have a rigid shank (in other words, you shouldn't be able to bend them in half). Steer clear of overly rigid shoes as they can push the foot to the outside, which may result in injury. You’ll also want to avoid overly bouncy cushioning because it won't provide enough stability. 

Another tip: Look for padding around the ankle for extra foot support as well as a spacious toe box so the toes move freely.

Why We Like It

The Keen WK400 is designed specifically as equipment for walking and our best overall shoe for high arches. The shoe follows the contours of your foot for a comfortably snug fit while offset lacing relieves pressure on top of your foot. The two-finger webbing loop on the heel allows for easy pull-on. Keen’s notable toe to heel, all-terrain, curved sole creates nonstop propulsion to give you the feeling of forward momentum with every step.

It took a bit of squeezing for us get into these the first time, but once they were on, they felt like a little foot hug. The heel cupped perfectly to help our feet stay firmly in place and supported throughout every wear. The WK400s were a bit weighty, but didn't feel heavy on our feet. We loved the impeccable arch support that contoured to the natural shape of our feet. It was clear to us that Keen found the perfect balance of promoting good foot health and comfort. The shock absorption and springiness made us feel downright jaunty as the rocking motion of the curved sole propelled us forward.

Keen WK400 walking shoes are excellent quality and breathable with well-thought-out design elements. After putting them to the test on a variety of surfaces, we believe they will withstand many miles of wear.

It's Worth Noting

• We needed to size up a half-size. It’s best to refer to the Keen size guide to ensure the best fit.

Product Details:

• Sizes: 5 to 12
• Widths: Standard
• Material: Mesh

Why We Like It

The Dansko Penni is a worthy contender and our runner-up for best overall with good reason. Having been awarded the APMA Seal of Acceptance for promoting good foot health, these shoes are intentionally created with added support in the arch and heel to keep your feet balanced and comfortable.

We were pleasantly surprised by the pronounced arch support—ideal for people with high arches. This feature may cause discomfort for those with flat feet. We loved how well the shoe fit right out of the box with no chafing and plenty of room for our toes. Although there was odor control built into the shoes, we noticed that these started to smell slightly after a while. It was noticeable, but not outrageous. The shoe had great bounce back, which propelled us to the next step while navigating multiple terrains. We felt that the Dankso Penni was padded and cushioned in the right places while still holding our feet firmly and comfortably in place.

It's Worth Noting

• We found the heel to be loose until we tightened the toggle lace.

Product Details:

• Sizes: 5.5 to 12
• Widths: Medium
• Material: 100% Recycled Mesh
  

Why We Like It

The Skechers GO WALK Joy- Sensational Day laceless design is made with 100% vegan materials, including an insole with high-rebound cushioning. The cushioned midsole adds another layer of support for high arches. These shoes are built for comfort and at under $100, our top choice for best budget.

We enjoyed the socks-optional design of this slip-on shoe. With or without socks, the upper was breathable and overall the shoes were light and airy. They were super comfortable every day shoes for errands, walking the dog, and work. Despite Skechers being lightweight, we felt stable and supported. The cushioning was unbelievably soft and provided adequate shock absorption while keeping our bodies in alignment. After a few wears, these became our comfy go-to shoes for concerts, park days, the office, strolls, and more.

It's Worth Noting

• We experienced blister-causing hotspots when we wore these for an extended period before breaking them in.

Product Details:

• Sizes: 5 to 11
• Widths: Standard
• Material: Fabric, Mesh

Why We Like It

As the name implies, Adidas Ultraboost Light are ultra lightweight for amazing energy return and responsiveness. The combination knit and mesh material adds flexible support and stability to each stride making it our best for all-day wear.

We loved that the feather-light fabric had great breathability and plenty of elasticity for movement. They were true-to-size and our toes had room to spread out. There was a lot of extra padding around the Achilles tendon, which took some time to get used to. The stretchy, sock-like upper made these easy to slip on and off. The laces can be pulled tighter to adjust the fit for added support. 

We liked that the wide outsole helped us feel stable and confident on pavement, uneven surfaces, grass, and indoors. We felt anchored, but not weighed down. In fact, they put pep in our step and provided great shock absorption. These shoes felt incredible. We appreciated that the Adidas Ultraboost Light combined thoughtful design features with attention-grabbing, trendy colors, making them our best for all-day wear.

It's Worth Noting

• These shoes may be too wide for people with narrow feet.

Product Details:

• Sizes: Women’s 5 to 12, Men’s 4 to 18
• Widths: Standard
• Material: Knit and Mesh

Why We Like It

The APMA Approved Saucony Integrity Walker 3 is our best for wide feet. In addition to regular and narrow, it also comes in wide and extra wide widths.

We loved the stability of these shoes and they felt good on multiple surfaces. They were more on the firm side, which provided solid support, but felt a bit clunky. We noticed that our ankle socks slid down while wearing them; however we didn’t experience any irritation or blisters. The sizing was right on par and our toes had enough room.

The Saucony Integrity Walker 3 was sturdy and comfortable. We walked outside in a variety of conditions and the shoes seemed to be really high quality. These shoes are available in black, white, and grey

It's Worth Noting

• We wish that these shoes were available in more exciting colors. We wanted our walking shoes to be multifunctional and fun.

Product Details:

• Sizes: 5 to 12
• Widths: Narrow, Regular, Wide, Extra Wide
• Material: Leather

Why We Like It

The On Cloud 5 shoes are made with breathable, antimicrobial mesh and elastic laces that allow you to slip the shoes on and off with ease and speed. The specially-designed, cloud-like foam, both inside and out, provide soft landings which are ideal for people with plantar fasciitis.

This shoe was true-to-size and fit perfectly. Our feet felt supported from heel to toe, particularly in the midsole for our high arches, and we didn’t experience any pinching or extra space.  We loved the convenience of the speed lacing system, especially while traveling. The curve on the bottom of the shoe was a stand-out feature. It aided in our stride and gait, while it supported our arches and reduced the inflammation of plantar fasciitis. Also worth mentioning is the shock absorption on hard surfaces like blacktop, concrete, and indoors. The On Cloud 5 was responsive and springy.

Overall, the quality craftsmanship made very functional and comfortable shoes and we loved the unique colorways.

It's Worth Noting

• The elastic laces can be adjusted by retying the knot on the ends. Classic laces are also included in the box.
• Our feet felt chilly on colder days, even while wearing socks, due to the airy, mesh material. Keeping that in mind, these shoes may best suited for warmer weather or indoors.

Product Details:

• Sizes: Women’s 5 to 11, Men’s 7 to 14
• Widths: Regular
• Material: Mesh

Why We Like It

Skechers GO WALK FLEX Alani sneakers offer cloud-like comfort with layers of lightweight, breathable foam and recycled rubber throughout the insole. The responsive, shock absorbent cushioning help protect high arches on impact, making these are our best option for mild arch support.

This design is available in standard as well as wide width. We loved that our toes had plenty of wiggle room and the heel absorbed the impact of the step while boosting us forward. We were stable on all surfaces, including the stairs and each step felt as if we were walking on a dense memory foam mattress. Our arches were adequately supported and we didn’t experience any discomfort. These shoes were comfortably snug like a firm hug. Our feet got a little warm because of the fit, but not uncomfortably so.

The Skechers GO WALK FLEX Alani shoes were very comfortable and fun to wear. Over time, the insole hasn’t worn down. These shoes looked a little clunky but they were very lightweight and made us feel faster and more weightless than other shoes.

It's Worth Noting

• These are slip-on shoes. The stretch laces are a design feature and not adjustable.

Product Details:

• Sizes: 5 to 11
• Widths: Medium, Wide
• Material: Fabric, Mesh

Why We Like It

X is the next generation shoe in the Ryka Devotion series. With an anatomical insole for arch and heel support, and cushioning in the midsole for stability, this shoe ranks number one as our best for support. The series has been a fan favorite for high-impact fitness walking for over a decade and has been awarded the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA) Seal of Acceptance for products that promote good foot health.

We were pleasantly surprised by how soft the inside of this shoe was. It fit incredibly well and our feet slid in easily. The responsive cushioning added noticeable shock absorption and high-impact protection, even on stairs. We were bouncing from step to step due to excellent energy return making our walks more manageable and enjoyable. Our feet felt rock solid while walking on all terrains, including on the wet ground after rain.

We loved that the Ryka Devotion X provided just the right amount of arch support. Wearing the shoes felt lush and cloud-soft, but still let our feet breathe nicely. They are well-made, sturdy, and ideal walking shoes. After many miles, they were still as good as new.

It's Worth Noting

• These shoes were roomier in the toe than we expected. For some people, that might not be a problem, but it's something to be aware of.

Product Details:

• Sizes: 5 to 12
• Widths: Standard, Wide
• Material: Mesh

Why We Like It

The Kita Hands-Free shoes from Orthofeet are water-repellent, easy to clean, and available in a range of sizes, including extra-wide width. This slip-on sneaker is the most customizable shoe on our list with two additional insoles, and an adjustable arch booster.

We loved the bounce of these shoes. They didn’t feel like “moon boots” but still helped propel us and provided support. They were springy, yet solid and retained their bounce unlike memory foam. We liked that we could leave these shoes tied, slip them on and off, and they maintained a great fit. We also loved that they came with ways to adjust the level of cushioning and arch support. On occasion, our feet felt a bit warm. Not so much so that we had to take them off, but noticeable. Even after wearing them all day, our feet were not overheated or fatigued.

It's Worth Noting

• We found that we had to go up a size in these shoes.
• While we liked that these came with insoles with extra arch support, we did find it tough to tie the shoe closed when we used the thickest insole.

Product Details:

• Sizes: 5 to 12
• Widths: Medium, Wide, Extra Wide
• Material: Fabric

Why We Like It

The uniquely patterned outsole and exaggerated rocker of the Nike Motiva helps propel you forward while softening the landing of every step. Despite the thick appearance of the sole, these shoes are the best lightweight option in our roundup.

The subtle rocking chair motion took some getting used to, but once we did, we felt as we could walk in these forever—and maybe not stop due to the propulsion. The active forward motion made us feel energized and ready to take on the day. We couldn’t passively drag our feet while wearing the Nike Motiva. We felt more connected to our walk wearing them.  The ample cushioning and shock absorption added springiness and bounce back while we navigated changes in terrain.

We loved the style and function. The knit upper made these shoes feel warm, but not to the point of overheating. They were trendy enough for every day and our arches and ankles felt fully supported in these active performance sneakers.

It's Worth Noting

• Although these have a widened forefoot, the toe box may feel a bit cramped for some people.

Product Details:

• Sizes: 5 to 12
• Widths: Standard
• Material: Knit

Why We Like It

Asics GEL-NIMBUS 25 is packed with the softest, lightest foam to create the best cushioning without weighing you down. More cushioning means enhanced shock absorption and smoother transitions. Every part of the shoe from the soft knit upper, to the gel-infused outsole is designed with maximum comfort in mind.

We liked the roomy toe box and that these shoes fit true-to-size. The heel and tongue tabs helped them slide on easily, but the collar rubbed the back of our ankle a bit causing some irritation after several days. However, the canoe shape gave us forward momentum and the shock support made for low-impact landings. Whether on grass or concrete, the GEL-NIMBUS 25 felt sturdy and responsive.

We noticed that the extra padding in the tongue and around the inside of the shoe added a dose of plush comfort. The knit upper was the perfect cross between hugging our feet and letting them move freely— almost like wearing an engineered sock. Yet, our arches were super supported. We loved all of the fun color options, but were most impressed by the cushioning.

It's Worth Noting

• These shoes were a little slippery while walking in the rain.

Product Details:

• Sizes: 5 to 13
• Widths: Standard
• Material: Knit

Why We Like It

Allbird Tree Runners are exceptionally lightweight and breathable thanks to an upper made of eucalyptus tree fiber. The midsole is engineered from sugarcane-based EVA foam to provide all day comfort that helps you go the long distance.

We liked that these shoes fit true-to-size and didn’t require a breaking-in period. They fit like a glove and we could tell that they were intended to be worn without socks. While not the most sturdy shoe, we felt stable and that they provided adequate shock absorption and cushioning with good arch support.

We were apprehensive about going sockless, but were pleasantly surprised not to experience any moisture or odor issues. Plus, the Allbird Tree Runners are machine washable. The no-frills, understated style made them our go-to while running errands and especially for traveling.

It's Worth Noting

• Allbirds are only available in whole sizes. If you have wide feet, consider going up a size.

Product Details:

• Sizes: 5 to 11
• Widths: Standard
• Material: Eucalyptus Tree Fiber

Why We Like It

Crafted with 100% vegan, recycled materials coupled with Skechers' commitment to reduce their environmental impact, the Ultra Flex 3.0- Brilliant is our pick for best sustainable shoe. Other standout features include the hands-free, slip-in design, air-cooled memory foam insoles, and the shoes are machine washable.

As promised, our feet slipped right in without any maneuvering or bending down. We simply stepped in. They had a snug, supportive feel and our regular size fit well. The hard lip on the back of the shoe caused a blister the first time we wore them, but we didn’t have any issues after. The cushioning was pillowy soft from heel to toe and the curve of the shoe cradled our high arches nicely. The Ultra Flex 3.0- Brilliant was very lightweight and breathable, with just enough bounce. We felt incredibly supported and stable—as if our bodies were lifted and aligned.

Although these were more expensive than other Skechers, they were priced lower than other brands on our list. We considered them a value based on the ease of use and how well they held up to the mileage we put on them.

It's Worth Noting

These may not be suitable for people with wide feet, as they run narrow.

Product Details:

• Sizes: 5 to 11
• Widths: Medium
• Material: Knit

Why We Like It

Supination or “underpronation,” is a rolling motion to the outside edge of the foot during a step. It occurs more often in people with high arches. Shoes that are well-cushioned in the midsole and flexible, such as New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080v13, are best for people who supinate.

 We loved that the ergonomic, hourglass shape of these shoes made them mold to our feet in the best way. They felt as we were wearing comfortable, thick socks with plenty of wiggle room for our toes. The support, shock absorption, and traction were welcomed, especially on long walks through uneven terrain. We really liked the easy and smooth transitions. We could feel our weight shift as the curved sole propelled us into our next step. We’d describe the Fresh Foam X 1080v13 as the perfect balance of cushion and support—especially in the arch.

We appreciated the intricacies of the design and texture of the fabric. The strong, tight knit felt thick, breathable, and compressive, which provided a nice hugging sensation and all-around comfort. We walked all over the city for weeks in these shoes, and there were barely any signs of wear.

It's Worth Noting

• New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080v13 may be uncomfortable if you have fallen arches or flat feet.
• We also found these shoes got dirty quickly and were tough to clean.
  

Product Details:

• Sizes:  5 to 13
• Widths: Standard, Wide, Extra-Wide
• Material: Mesh

Why We Like It

IT band syndrome is a common knee injury that causes inflammation and pain along the outside of the thigh. The Hoka Clifton LS provides support and stability with a fresh take on combining lifestyle and function. It offers balanced cushioning, comfort, and responsiveness without additional prescriptive features. The streamlined laces allow you to slip in and out of them quickly. The all gender sizing is available in a range from 5 to 15 to accommodate many people.

We loved that our ankles and knees felt protected—as if the shoe absorbed almost all of the impact. The superb cushioning made these some of the most comfortable shoes, even on unpaved trails. We found the toe box to be generous and the sole cushy. Visually, the design may be a bit clunky, but there’s no denying the winning performance. Hokas are priced on the higher end, but we think the Clifton LS was worth it.

It's Worth Noting

• Color options are limited.
• They are also not the most attractive shoes. We find the comfort and support outweigh how they look, though.

Product Details:

• Sizes: 5 to 15
• Widths: Regular
• Material: Leather, Suede

Why We Like It

Hands-free, slip-on technology makes the Kizik Roamer our top choice for when you need to slide your shoes on effortlessly without bending over. The insoles bounce back with every step and the outsole is lightweight, yet stable and responsive for all day comfort.

These shoes were very cushiony and provided lots of shock absorption for our high arches, which also helped ease the discomfort of plantar fasciitis. The fit was true-to-size, but wide enough so that they didn’t rub on our bunions and hammertoes.

The Kizik Roamer is high-quality, stylish, and felt amazing. With lots of colorways and a wide range of sizes, they’re extremely versatile too. It’s a great everyday shoe and worth the price.

It's Worth Noting

• These shoes are excellent for everyday wear, but they're not ideal for serious workouts.
  

Product Details:

• Sizes: Women’s 6 to 13, Men’s 4.5 to 15
• Widths: Standard
• Material: Stretch Knit Fabric

Why We Like It

The Vionic Reyna Flatform combines fashion with comfort and unparalleled orthotic arch support—not commonly found in a sandal. The insole hugs the natural contours of the foot and the deep heel cup provides extra stability. This strappy sandal has an adjustable buckle closure and is made from soft, tumbled leather.

Right out of the box, these shoes were super cute and fit well. The leather straps are soft and didn’t irritate our skin. We noticed that the platform style added a little extra weight, but not enough to be burdensome. The most notable features were the cushioning and prominent arch support. We were also pleased with the stability and all-day comfort.

It's Worth Noting

The high arch support may be uncomfortable if you have flat feet.

Product Details:

• Sizes: 5 to 11
• Widths: Medium
• Material: Leather, Suede

Why We Like It

The Kane Revive is made with sugar cane-based EVA foam which is washable, quick-drying, and ultra durable. The unique design features of this shoe work together to aid in active recovery. Raised footbed nodes stimulate blood flow, while the construction provides support and stability. Exterior perforations and interior channels allow enhanced airflow making the Kane Revive our best waterproof shoe.

Our feet slid easily into the shoes and they felt great right out of the box. The fit was true-to-size and we had enough room to prevent chafing, rubbing, and blisters. We didn’t experience much shock absorption or cushioning, but the design provided suitable arch support and stability. Surprisingly, the shoes were comfortable while running.  We would not recommend them for long distance, but enjoyed wearing them during stationary exercise, weight lifting, and even yard work.

We liked that the Kane Revive transitioned well from concrete to grass, to sand, and more. Walking on gravel presented a challenge due to rocks getting caught in the perforated upper.  Otherwise, the shoes had great traction and were light on our feet. We tested them with and without socks and our feet did not overheat or get sweaty. We tried these shoes at the gym, in the locker room, and sitting in the sauna. We wore them to a cabin and to the beach. They were so easy to clean by simply spraying them off with water.

It's Worth Noting

The Kane Revive is only available in whole sizes.

Product Details:

• Sizes: Women’s 5 to 18, Men’s 3 to 19
• Widths: Standard
• Material: EVA foam

Our Testing Process

To date we’ve tested over 40 pairs of shoes to choose the best ones for people with high arches. In order to thoroughly test each pair, we wore them as part of our regular routines in the real world. That included various surfaces indoors, as well as outside on roads, sidewalks, paths, and trails. We walked over 100 miles to choose our favorites based on the following attributes:

• Fit: There should be room in the toe box for your toes to spread out naturally without touching the tip, while the rest of the shoe hugs your foot comfortably.
• Stability: Typically, shoes with added stability help guide people who overpronate toward a more neutral gait.
• Responsiveness: Often referred to as “bounce back,” responsiveness is the shoe's ability to quickly and efficiently transfer energy from your foot to the ground and back again.
• Cushioning: Most shoes have a layer of foam inside for performance and added comfort. The thickness and placement of the materials determines how soft and supportive the shoe will be.
• Comfort: How the shoe feels is perhaps the most important factor when choosing a new pair. Easy entry, temperature regulation, cushioning and padding, as well as support are some of the considerations that make for a comfortable pair of shoes.
•  Quality: Look for shoes made of comfortable, yet durable materials that can withstand miles of wear while maintaining their integrity.
• Value: It is important that the quality and function of the shoe justifies the cost. Not only should they be durable, but they should deliver on performance as well.

The Experts:

• Diana Valencia, DPM, a podiatric surgeon at NYC Foot and Ankle Center.
• Miguel Cunha, DPM, a Podiatric Surgery Specialist and founder of Gotham Footcare in Manhattan.
• Marion Yau, BSc, a podiatrist and nail surgery expert based in London.
• Alison Staples, an RRCA-certified long-distance run coach and physical therapy assistant. 

What to Know About Walking Shoes

How Walking Shoes Should Fit

In general, your walking shoes should comfortably hug your feet while providing cushioning and support. Shoes that lack arch support are less comfortable and make you more prone to injury—especially if you have high arches.

A Note on Men and Women's Sizing

Shoe brands often market their shoes according to gender because the sizes for men and women differ. Men's shoe sizes tend to be wider and longer than women's. However, you can choose any style or color you want, regardless of the gender the shoe is marketed for—just make sure your shoes fit well and provide the support your arches need. 

When in doubt, work with your podiatrist or a shoe-fitting specialist, and make sure to try on many different brands and styles to find the best fit. 

Your Questions, Answered

What are the benefits of shoes made for high arches?

Wearing a shoe with high arch support—or using an orthotic to support your arches—helps alleviate pressure by distributing pressure throughout the foot. Shoes with arch support are also designed to absorb shock and impact.

People with high arches are more prone to dealing with arch inflexibility or stiffness, ankle pain, a tight Achilles tendon, discomfort in the ball and heel, and painful corns and calluses. Walking shoes made for high arches prioritize shock absorption, so they'll have flexible midsoles with extra cushioning to help prevent foot-related injuries.

Why should you consider your arches when buying walking shoes?

Simply put, your arches dictate how much support your shoe should provide. 

Wearing unsupportive shoes may lead to problems like lowered performance, discomfort such as plantar fasciitis and runner’s knee, injuries, and even early-onset arthritis. On the other hand, shoes designed to compensate for the impact of your feet can help prevent injuries and improve structural alignment and performance. 

To determine your foot type, look at the soles of a pair of worn-in shoes. The wear patterns illustrate where you tend to accumulate pressure when you walk, and certain foot types are more prone to specific types of foot discomfort and foot-related injuries. For example, people who have outer knee pain or frequent ankle sprains tend to be supinators since their feet roll outward. People who pronate, or whose feet roll inward, are likely to have plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendonitis, shin splints, or inner knee pain. 

There are three wear patterns to look for in your shoes:

1. Supinator pattern: If your shoe is worn out in the top outer edge, you’re a supinator (also known as an underpronator). This foot type needs cushioning sneakers for shock absorption.
2. Neutral pattern: If your shoes are evenly worn, you are neutral and have an average gait with equal weight distribution across the foot. This foot type needs moderate-stability sneakers that offer a balance of cushioning and support. 
3. Pronator pattern: If you notice that your shoe's top inner edge is worn, you’re a pronator. This foot type needs motion-control or high-stability sneakers to better align your feet with your legs. 
   

Who We Are

April Benshosan is a health journalist and editor who's interviewed countless doctors and other medical professionals throughout her career. Her work highlights her passion for arming people with the information they need to make informed decisions about their health.