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VettedFashion
Hannah Singleton Contributor Opinions expressed by Forbes Contributors are their own.
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Whether you go for long walks, spend full days on your feet or simply want to maximize your comfort, the best sneakers for arch support deliver a lot of benefits. Boosted with extra cushioning, “these shoes offer superior shock absorption,”says Nathaniel Alabi, DPM, foot and ankle surgeon at Texas Heart And Vein Multispecialty Group in Houston. “This cushioning acts as a buffer between your feet and the ground, reducing the stress on your joints and muscles.” After researching the options and consulting experts, we determined that Asics’ Gel-Kayano 30 is the overall best sneaker for arch support while Hoka’s Arahi 7 is the best for cushioning.
Ahead, you’ll find all the top-rated sneakers that passed our in-depth review process and help prevent foot pain and fatigue. When it comes to your heath, after all, “shoes are our first defense,” says Dan Geller, DPM, podiatrist and chief medical officer at Kane Footwear in New York City. Here are the expert-approved pairs that we highly recommend:
- Best Sneaker For Arch Support Overall: Asics Gel-Kayano 30
- Best Cushioned Sneaker For Arch Support: Hoka Arahi 7
- Best Stability Sneaker For Arch Support: Brooks Adrenaline GTS 23
- Best Running Sneaker For Arch Support: Saucony Guide 14
- Most Comfortable Sneaker For Arch Support: New Balance Fresh Foam X 880V14
- Best Arch Support Sneaker For Narrow Feet: On Cloudrunner
- Best Arch Support Sneaker For Wide Feet: Altra Provision 7
- Best Affordable Sneaker For Arch Support: Nike Pegasus 40
The Best Overall Sneaker for Arch Support
Tried-and-True Balanced Shoe
Asics Gel-Kayano 30 (Men's, Women's)
Sizes: 5 to 16 | Weight:10.7 ounces |Cushion:Maximum |Heel-to-toe-drop:10 millimeters
Geller recommends this workhorse of shoe from Asics, which is so reliable that it is in its 30th iteration. “The Asics Gel-Kayano line is often praised for its exceptional support and comfort,” agrees Dr. Shital Sharma, DPM, podiatrist at Pinewood Family Care Co in Jersey City. That’s because this shoe has a soft, medial support system, says Geller, which helps stabilize the inner arch. This allows the foot to properly roll outward during the propulsion phase of your gait (when you push off the ground), he says. Both podiatrists also love the gel in the heel, which absorbs shock, transferring less stress onto your joints, so they’re ideal for running, walking and casual wear.
Best Cushioned Sneakers For Arch Support
Colorful and Comfortable
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Hoka Arahi 7 (Men's, Women's)
Sizes: 5 to 15 | Weight:9.9 ounces |Cushion:Moderate |Heel-to-toe drop:5 millimeters
All the podiatrists we spoke to praised the Hoka Arahi for its exceptional cushioning and responsive ride. Even with the extra padding, this shoe feels incredibly lightweight, says Dr. Sharma. You also won’t feel unstable as you walk or run: The heel-to-toe drop is only five millimeters, almost as if your foot is on an even plane. What sets this shoe apart from the rest, though, is the J-shaped internal frame, which “better controls heel strike,” says Geller. Instead of your heel rolling around, you’ll get the support you need to stay in line throughout your entire stride.
Best Stability Sneaker For Arch Support
Support on Both Sides To Keep Your Foot in Line
Brooks Adrenaline GTS 23 (Men's, Women's)
Sizes: 5 to 15 | Weight:10.1 ounces |Cushion:Moderate |Heel-to-toe drop:12 millimeters
If you have flat to medium arches, Sharma and Alabi both recommend the Brooks Adrenaline. It incorporates the brand’s GuideRails system (think of it like bumpers in a bowling lane), which is designed to prevent too much movement, says Sharma. This feature can be especially useful for runners or walkers who tend to overpronate, or collapse inward at the ankle. The most recent model of the Adrenaline got a big upgrade from previous versions, with a light, squishy midsole to keep you feeling comfortable mile after mile, and a breathable upper that wicks moisture.
Best Running Sneaker For Arch Support
Puts Even More Pep in Your Step
Saucony Guide 17 (Men's, Women's)
Sizes: 5 to 16 |Weight:9.4 ounces |Cushion:Moderate |Heel-to-toe-drop:6 millimeters
Saucony makes solid all-around running shoes, but their responsive “Pwrrun” foam makes running fast feel so much easier. This shoe won’t be as soft as their maximum cushion varieties, but it has “a good balance of cushioning and support, making it suitable for runners with mild to moderate pronation,” says Sharma. The upper is padded and comfortable with a snug fit to enhance agility, and the outsole is durable so you can put it through the wringer on your daily training miles.
Most Comfortable Sneaker For Arch Support
Pillowy Soft Foam To Cradle Your Foot
New Balance Fresh Foam X 880v14 (Men's, Women's)
Sizes: 5 to 16 | Weight (per shoe):9.5 ounces |Cushion:Moderate |Heel-To-Toe Drop:10 millimeters
New Balance is known to make some of the most comfortable shoes in the game, thanks to its Fresh Foam cushioning—and all three podiatrists agree. This shoe not only has that in droves, but also has the features that those seeking arch support need. “The New Balance medial post is iconic,” says Geller. “Think of it as a kickstand of sorts. By allowing firm support of the medial arch and stability of the first big toe, the foot and ankle cannot migrate inward.” When your foot stays in place, you can transition better from heel to toe as you push off the ground. Best of all, it’s one of the lightest shoes on this list, making it a great choice for those days when you’re constantly on your feet.
Best Arch Support Sneaker For Narrow Feet
Secure Fit, Minus Any Rubbing Or Sliding
On Cloudrunner (Men's, Women's)
Sizes: 5 to 14 |Weight:10.5 ounces |Cushion:Maximum |Heel-to-toe drop:9 millimeters
The On Cloudrunner stands out for its sleek, streamlined aesthetic and comes approved by Alabi. It’s lightly supportive, lying somewhere in between a neutral and a stability shoe, as it has thicker mesh on the inner edge of the shoe but lacks any denser foam features you might not need. The integrated Speedboard—a rigid panel beneath the footbed—creates a firm ride, but it’s paired with a soft, bouncey foam sole so you get the best of both worlds. FYI: This shoe also comes in a wide fit if you want a more generous toe box.
Best Arch Support Sneaker For Wide Feet
A Wide Toe Box For A Natural Foot Position
Altra Provision 7 (Men's, Women's)
Sizes: 6 to 15 |Weight:9.6 ounces |Cushion:Moderate |Heel-to-toe drop:0 millimeters
According to Geller, the Provision 7 is a “middle-of-the-road arch protector. Not too firm and not too soft,” he says. “Good for those of us who need some mild protection in the arch.” But this shoe isn’t like others on the list: Altra has gained a massive following for its zero-drop running shoes, which means that the heel is not raised above the toe, and wide toe boxes. Some people find this beneficial for maintaining a natural foot position (as if you were barefoot), and the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA) even gave this shoe a seal of acceptance that it promotes good foot health.
Best Affordable Sneaker For Arch Support
Comfortable, Sleek And Classic
Nike Pegasus 40 (Men's, Women's)
Sizes: 5 to 13 |Weight:10.1 ounces |Cushion:Moderate |Heel-to-toe drop:10 millimeters
This back-to-the-basics sneaker is approved by podiatrist Alabi because of its versatility—a strap around the midfoot ensures a secure foot for all arch shapes and sizes. Moderate cushioning is soft enough for comfort during longer runs or walks, but it’s stiff enough that it won’t slow you down. Compared to other shoes on this list, it is a neutral shoe (instead of a stability shoe), which means that it won’t have built-in support to keep your foot in line, but it does have extra padding for comfort along the arch. If you’re looking for a relatively affordable and long-lasting sneaker, the Pegasus 40 fits the bill.
MORE FROMFORBES VETTED
Why Trust Forbes Vetted?
At Forbes Vetted, we’re passionate about finding the best products out there and spend hours researching and testing our picks firsthand to help you make informed shopping decisions. We also interview industry experts for insight into specific design features, as well as to stay up-to-date on the latest breakthroughs.
Forbes Vetted contributor Hannah Singleton is a runner (both trails and roads) who frequently writes about footwear—including the best running shoes for flat feet and hiking boots—and tests dozens of pairs of shoes a year. For this story, Singleton spoke with three podiatrists for recommendations:
- Dan Geller, DPM, podiatrist and chief medical officer at Kane Footwear in New York City, New York.
- Nathaniel Alabi, DPM, foot and ankle surgeon at Texas Heart and Vein Multispecialty Group in Houston, Texas.
- Dr. Shital Sharma, DPM, podiatrist at Pinewood Family Care Co in Jersey City, New Jersey.
What to Consider When Buying Sneakers For Arch Support
Selecting the right pair of sneakers takes time, as each style is unique and there is no one-size-fits-all solution when it comes to footwear, says Alabi. So, when possible, Geller recommends that his patients try on a few different pairs to ensure comfort and support. As you’re shopping, consider a few key features:
Degree of Arch Support
The main factor to consider, according to Sharma, is the degree of arch support you need. The spectrum of support can vary significantly from one person to the next, so selecting the appropriate level is essential for preventing injuries and ensuring a comfortable experience.
The shoes listed above offer a variety of options, whether you need mild support for slight arch discomfort or full-on stability for more severe overpronation. Mild support models, like the On Cloudrunner and Nike Pegasus, have features like extra padding along the inner edge. On the other hand, stability shoes, like the Hoka Arahi and Brooks Adrenaline, have rigid panels or frames that keep your foot in place on the footbed.
Cushioning
Cushioning in sneakers creates a softer landing and enhances shock absorption, a crucial aspect for protecting joints and muscles, according to Alabi. However, too much cushioning can result in a less stable ride, which might increase the risk of ankle rolls or other injuries.
Outsole
According to Alabi, you need to assess the shoe's foundation when looking for arch support. “A supportive shoe should feel firm, resisting bending in the middle or folding in half,” he says. But it shouldn’t be too rigid; you should still be able to bend the shoe gently at the toe.
How Do I Know If I Need Sneakers For Arch Support?
Are you experiencing discomfort or pain during or after running or walking in the feet, heels, ankles, knees, or even hips? This could indicate overpronation or flat feet. You can examine the wear pattern of your current shoes to check if this is a problem for you: Excessive wear on the inner side of the shoe might suggest a need for more arch support. Consulting with a podiatrist or a specialized running store for a gait analysis can also provide definitive insights into your specific needs.
Can Too Much Arch Support In Sneakers Be Harmful?
Yes, excessive arch support can lead to discomfort and even injury. Shoes with too much arch support may not allow your feet to move naturally, potentially causing strain on your arches. It's crucial to find a balance that supports your arches without overcorrecting your natural foot motion. If you're unsure about the level of support you need, seeking advice from a podiatrist.
How Often Should I Replace My Sneakers?
The lifespan of your sneakers depends on several factors, including your running or walking frequency, distance, surface, and the shoe's construction. Generally, podiatrists recommend replacing running shoes every 300 to 500 miles to ensure they continue to provide adequate support, while you may be able to get more mileage if you’re walking because you’re putting less intense impact on the shoe. However, keep an eye out for signs of wear in the footbed, cushioning (if it feels too packed down), or outsole, as these can indicate it's time for a new pair. Listening to your body is key; if you start to feel unusual discomfort or pain with a pair that used to be comfortable, it might be time for a replacement.
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