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Vionic Women’s 23Walk 2.0 Sneakers
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On Men’s Cloudmonster 3 Running Shoes
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Chaco Men’s Z/1 Rapid Pro Adjustable Strap Classic Sandals
All day support for the office
Dansko Women’s Maggy Mules
Whether you have flat feet or high arches, finding comfortable shoes should always be a priority, especially if you have any kind of foot pain, such as plantar fasciitis. Since no two people are the same, what counts as the best arch-support shoes will vary by person and depend on their arch height — low, neutral or high — but the most supportive shoes should have sturdy soles and firm heel counters.
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Shopping for the best arch-support shoes can be challenging, especially online, so we tapped several podiatrists to find shoes that are attractive and supportive and that offer proper arch support to keep your feet happy. We also asked our team of editors for their favorite supportive picks and tested a few new pairs ourselves.
Best arch-support sneakers
Kuru Atom Fusion
Kuru Women’s Atom Fusion Shoes
The best shoes with arch support can sometimes look a little frumpy and weigh down your stride, thanks to all the comfortable cushioning. These Kuru shoes, on the other hand, look dreamy and are under 11 ounces (most running shoes are around 7 to 11 ounces). Meanwhile, the brand’s innovative layered soles support your toes, arches and heels by molding to your feet for a customized fit that adapts to your individual needs.
Kuru Men’s Atom Fusion Shoes
Podiatrists and shoe experts agree that a minimal or moderate heel-to-toe drop (the distance between where your heels and toes sit in the shoes) is ideal for people who need arch support. CNN Underscored health and fitness editor Summer Cartwright, who is also an RRCA-certified running coach, said shoes with a drop between 0 and 8 millimeters, like these Kurus, can help you maintain their natural form and stride. “Anything more pronounced than that could lead to heel striking, where your heels land first and take on a lot of impact,” she said.
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Saucony ProGrid Omni 9 Disrupt
Saucony Women’s ProGrid Omni 9 Disrupt Sneakers
“After dealing with ankle and arch pain, I decided to swap out my unsupportive clogs and flat sneakers for a sturdier option,” Elena Matarazzo, CNN Underscored’s associate deals editor, said. She settled on these sneakers from Saucony after searching for sporty-looking shoes with proper support to keep her arches from collapsing. Lightweight and durable, the Saucony ProGrid Omni 9 Disrupt sneakers feature reflective detailing for late-night runs and breathable mesh uppers to keep sweaty feet at bay.
Saucony Men’s ProGrid Omni 9 Disrupt Sneakers
In addition to their foot-friendly features, these shoes also have a stylish yet durable design we love. Their lace-up feature offers a secure fit, but if you want to transform them into slip-ons to make them easier to pull on and off, we recommend purchasing elastic shoelaces from Lock Laces. You won’t have to waste time tying your shoes, and they’ll feel just as secure on your feet during runs and long walks.
Oboz Katabatic LT Low
Oboz Women’s Katabatic LT Low Hiking Shoes
The Katabatic LT Low sneakers are among the brand’s most popular hiking shoes. They have wider toe boxes to prevent cramping and heel cups that closely hug your feet for added stability. Though they’re only available in one width (regular), these shoes range from sizes 5 to 12.
Oboz Men’s Katabatic LT Low Hiking Shoes
CNN Underscored outdoors editor Kai Burkhardt said Oboz shoes offer the most arch support of any brand he’s tried. “The insoles that come with the shoes have a higher arch for more support, and they feel plush and comfortable for all-day wear,” he said. These hiking shoes are some of his favorites because they’re so lightweight and versatile.
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Vionic Women’s City Walk Sneakers
Board-certified podiatrist Dr. Priya Parthasarathy said these have been her go-to sneakers for travel lately. “They are slim, fashionable and provide enough arch support to walk through airports without the bulk,” she said. She likes that the sneakers come in a wide option and that the insoles are removable, which allows you to add your own orthotic insoles easily.
Brooks Men’s Beast GTS 26 Running Shoes
Dr. Don Pelto recommends these Brooks shoes as a wear-anywhere option that offers good arch support. The sneakers feature Brooks’ GuideRails technology, which consists of specialty foam placed inside and around your heels to eliminate extra movement and pronation. The brand also notes you can add your own orthotics into the shoes, though the sneakers themselves offer maximum cushioning. While there isn’t an exact women’s version, the Brooks Women’s Ariel GTS 26 is a similar alternative.
Vionic Men’s Carter Oxford Lace Up Sneakers
These elevated sneakers have contoured footbeds, shock-absorbing cushioning and deep heel cups that keep your feet stable while you’re walking. The suede style is great for fall and winter, and Parthasarathy noted her husband packs these for trips since the style is easy to wear with both casual and formal outfits.
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Altra Paradigm 8
Altra Women’s Paradigm 8 Running Shoes
These sneakers have a 0-millimeter heel-to-toe drop, so your feet stay horizontal. This design keeps your feet in a natural position as you move, while the cushioned soles provide a stable foundation. Pelto likes these shoes because of both the arch support and the anatomic toe boxes, which allow your toes to splay comfortably throughout your step and promote overall foot health.
Altra Men’s Paradigm 8 Running Shoes
The brand says these sneakers as ideal for walking, running or everyday wear. The sleek design comes in a range of colors (including neutral and bright tones) so you can find one that matches your personal style. The shoes offer the brand’s highest level of cushioning so your feet and joints will feel supported throughout your stride.
Vionic Women’s Walk Slim Giselle Sneakers
CNN Underscored associate editor Rachel Dennis is a big fan of sneaker hybrids, and she loves how the Vionic Walk Slim Giselle Sneakers combine the comfort and walkability of sneakers with the classic look of Mary Janes. “Since I have flat feet, shoes with arch support are a must for me, and these offer enough comfort for all-day wear,” she said. “The contoured arches, shock-absorbing cushioning and heel cups are game-changing stability features that keep my feet happy whether I’m running errands or out for a stroll.”
Saucony Hurricane 25
Saucony Women’s Hurricane 25 Running Shoes
Dr. Mitzi Williams, a pediatric foot and ankle surgeon at Paley Orthopedic and Spine Institute, previously recommended the Saucony Hurricane 24 sneakers for their rigid soles and shock absorbency. The brand’s latest model, the Hurricane 25, delivers max cushioning for runners who need a bit more support, thanks to a multi-layered foam design that cradles your feet with every step. These sneakers also feature the brand’s CenterPath technology, which keeps you centered when you’re running.
Saucony Men’s Hurricane 25 Running Shoes
Cartwright said the Hurricane model is ideal for those seeking max-cushioned shoes that take pressure off of joints. “These are great for wearing on stiff treadmills or hard cement because the cushioning protects your feet, knees and ankles so well,” she said. Podiatrist and foot surgeon Dr. Dana Figura also recommended Saucony as a good brand for overpronation and underpronation in our guide to the most comfortable work shoes.
New Balance Fresh Foam X Vongo V6
New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam X Vongo v6 Running Shoes
These stability running shoes are another one of Williams’ top recommendations. They boast extra-soft cushioning for all-day comfort and have the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA) Seal of Acceptance, signifying they promote quality foot health. In addition to standard width, these shoes also come in wide and extra-wide sizing, making them a bunion-friendly option.
New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam X Vongo V6 Running Shoes
Several podiatrists recommended these lace-up sneakers in our guide to the best New Balance Shoes, including Daughtry, who said they’re a solid option for those who are looking for cushioning. What’s more, the sneakers are made with medial posts that prevent feet from rolling inward, thus helping to reduce overpronation.
Vionic 23Walk 2.0
Vionic Women’s 23Walk 2.0 Sneakers
These Vionic sneakers are among the most supportive shoes CNN Underscored testing and updates writer Michelle Rae Uy has tried. “I wore these whilst exploring the entirety of the Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport during a long layover, and my feet were the comfiest they’ve ever been,” she said. This is likely due to the impact-absorbing EVA foam midsoles, which keep arches supported every step of the way.
Vionic Men’s 23Walk 2.0 Sneakers
Dr. Elizabeth Daughtry, a board-certified foot and ankle surgeon, recommended these sneakers for our guide to the best walking shoes. They’re crafted with breathable mesh and leather or suede uppers, depending on the model you choose, and feature deep heel cups, generous cushioning and moisture-wicking liners to prevent sweaty feet and reduce friction.
On Cloudmonster 3
On Women’s Cloudmonster 3 Running Shoes
If you’re looking for a responsive, fashion-forward pair of running shoes, On’s Cloudmonster 3 sneakers are worth checking out. Like the original Cloudmonster running shoes, the third iteration has a minimal 6-millimeter heel-to-toe drop, which allows toes to splay out in a natural shape that can prevent cramping and discomfort. Unlike the original, however, they feature the brand’s triple-layer CloudTec cushioning system for a bouncier run.
On Men’s Cloudmonster 3 Running Shoes
In addition to an enhanced rocker design that helps propel you forward with each stride, the Cloudmonster 3 shoes, which previously earned Williams’ stamp of approval in this story, feature breathable mesh uppers and durable rubber outsoles made for road running. Their medium level of cushioning helps reduce muscle fatigue as you move and is ideal for anyone who doesn’t want overly plush sneakers.
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Salomon Unisex XT-6 Sneakers
CNN Underscored beauty and fashion editor Sophie Shaw said these Salomon sneakers offer unmatched traction and support. “I love wearing them for everything from walking the dog in Brooklyn to hiking in the Pacific Northwest.” Though they’re some of the priciest sneakers she owns, Shaw said their quality and fit make them stand out. In addition to grippy outsoles suitable for various terrains, these shoes have removable insoles that allow you to insert your own orthotics or OTC shoe inserts, if needed.
Hoka Bondi 9
Hoka Women’s Bondi 9 Running Shoes
Thanks to their supportive design, these sneakers are some of the best shoes for standing all day we’ve tested. The bouncy foam midsoles provide loads of comfort during daily commutes or on runs, and their durable rubber outsoles help prevent slips and falls. The minimal 5-millimeter toe drop falls within the recommended range for shoes with arch support to boot.
Read our review
Hoka Men’s Bondi 9 Sneakers
Williams, along with several CNN Underscored staffers, is also a fan of these running shoes, which are made with breathable uppers. In addition to reflective details, the shoes boast 3D-molded collars to lock your feet into proper placement. We’re fans of the eye-catching hues available, like Frost and Pale Tangerine, for adding a pop of color to any outfit.
New Balance Unisex 530 Sneakers
Dr. Samantha Landau, a foot and ankle specialist, recommends these chic unisex sneakers for people with normal and high arches. They feature the brand’s shock-absorbing midsoles, which help prevent foot fatigue and limit joint stress. Uy has a pair of these New Balance sneakers and finds them supportive, lightweight and comfortable. “Of course, they’re also stylish — like ‘Princess Diana in athleisure’ stylish,” Uy said. She recommends styling them with cycling shorts and an oversized sweatshirt for running errands.
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Oboz Cottonwood
Oboz Women’s Cottonwood Low Waterproof Hiking Shoes
Designed to keep you comfortable on the trail, these lace-up hiking shoes have an 8-millimeter heel drop that makes them a solid pick for heel strikers (those who tend to land heel-first). Their durable rubber outsoles help prevent slips on rough terrain and their waterproof leather uppers keep your feet dry in wet conditions.
Oboz Men’s Cottonwood Low Waterproof Hiking Shoes
“I don’t typically wear high-arch shoes, but after trying a couple pairs of Oboz, I might be a convert,” Burkhardt said. He likes the brand’s Cottonwood hiking shoes for “their casual, versatile style” and said their triple-density EVA foam makes them comfortable to wear for long periods of time.
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Best sandals for arch support
Chaco Z/1
Chaco Women’s Z/1 Adjustable Strap Classic Sandals
“I’ve had the same pair of Chacos — the ZX/2 Cloud Dual Adjustable Straps Cushioned Sandals — for a decade, and the arched footbeds have maintained their shape and support since day one,” Shaw said. “Last year, I grabbed this more colorful pair in the brand’s popular Z/1 style for my summer adventures.” Shaw appreciates that, with wear, the soles mold to your feet and the straps naturally adjust to become more comfortable.
Chaco Men’s Z/1 Adjustable Strap Classic Sandals
For men looking for a supportive pair of arch-support sandals, this adjustable pair boasts a 3-millimeter lug depth to ensure that arches are supported, no matter how far your adventures might take you. They come in two widths — medium and wide — and range from sizes 7 to 15. If you’re between sizes, the brand recommends sizing down for the best fit.
Birkenstock Women’s Gizeh Droplet Buckle Sandals
“I love all of the Gizeh Birkenstock styles,” Parthasarathy said, noting that they offer firm arch support and she personally slips them on all summer. “My feet love their cork, cushioned footbed with built-in arch supports and metatarsal pads. The cork footbed works for me, but they also offer softer footbeds for a lot of their styles,” she said. There isn’t an exact version of this style in men’s sizing, but they have a comparable version with a smaller buckle available.
Naot Women’s Intact Sandals
Dennis was impressed with how comfortable and stylish these women’s sandals are. The latex and cork footbeds provide cushioning and arch support for my flat feet, while the sturdy block heels provide additional height.
Dr. Scholl’s Original Sandals
When CNN Underscored senior lifestyle editor Tamara Kraus saw that Carrie Bradshaw wore these comfortable sandals in “And Just Like That,” she had to give them a try. If you’re looking for something in between a flip-flop and heeled sandal, these are a nice middle ground. Kraus said the wooden base is a bit heavy, though, so they’re definitely not for long-distance walking.
Chaco Z/1 Rapid Pro
Chaco Women’s Z/1 Rapid Pro Adjustable Strap Classic Sandals
Featuring quick-drying adjustable straps and buckles, these sandals have durable footbeds and reinforced heel risers that help with stability. The sandals come in three bold patterns to suit different styles.
Chaco Men’s Z/1 Rapid Pro Adjustable Strap Classic Sandals
Burkhardt is also a fan of Chaco sandals. “Most sandals have completely flat insoles, but not Chacos,” he said. “This pair molds to your feet and provides more arch support than any other pair of sandals I’ve tried.” He finds their strappy design supportive and appreciates that their outsoles are made with Vibram rubber, which offers great traction.
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Dansko Women’s Maggy Mules
“Fall is approaching, and a good loafer is a must; this one has the supportive footbed of a clog,” Parthasarathy said. She noted that Dansko is known for its comfortable clogs, but she likes its alternative supportive styles, such as this pair of mules. “It has a supportive EVA cork midsole to provide arch support,” she said. They pair well with jeans for running errands or trousers and skirts for the office.
Ally Shoes Women’s Embossed Leather Mary Jane Kitten Mules
Parthasarathy knows you might be skeptical about a heel with arch support, but she has personally walked around 16,000 steps in these made-to-order Mary Janes. “They provide a custom width fit, have a deeper heel and arch pads for an actually comfortable heel,” she said, noting the heels are “pricey, but worth it.” You can order a Fit Kit from the brand to help you find the right size.
How to choose the best arch-support shoes
Finding the best shoes with arch support can seem like a daunting task, but with expert intel, it’s easy to find the shoes that work for you. The podiatrists we talked to agree that non-flexible sneakers and sandals with wraparound rockers are typically the best options.
Consider your arch type
Understanding your arch type is key to selecting shoes that offer the right amount of support, Dr. Suzanne Fuchs, a board-certified podiatrist and founder of Luxe Podiatry, said. This is because the need for arch support isn’t exclusive to just one arch type. According to the podiatrist, individuals with flat feet — little to no arches — need arch support to evenly distribute weight, reduce strain on ligaments and provide stability. “Those with high arches may experience pressure and pain in the heel and ball of the foot,” she said. “Arch support helps absorb shock and provides a more balanced distribution of weight.”
Individuals with normal arches can also benefit from shoes with arch support to reduce fatigue and maintain proper alignment, Fuchs said. While brands don’t always include information around arch types in product descriptions, some, like Asics, do, which makes shopping for supportive shoes easier.
If you’re unsure of your arch type, many shoe stores offer a foot analysis that can provide valuable insight (Dennis had one done at my local DSW last year). Gotham Footcare also recommends conducting a “water test” at home to determine your arch type: Fill a shallow pan with water, step into the pan with one foot, then step onto a piece of paper to analyze your footprint. If the arch area is mainly filled, you likely have low arches. If you see little to no arch, you probably have high arches. If you can see around half of the arch area, you have normal arches. Here’s what each foot type should consider when shopping for shoes.
- Flat: If you have flat feet, you still should look for a shoe with arch support in order to support your stride, especially if you overpronate. The best shoes with arch support for people with flat feet are typically called “stability shoes” and feel stiffer than other options.
- Normal: Those with normal arches can always benefit from shoes with shock-absorbing features and forefoot rockers that support arches. Look for shoes with foam cushioning to ensure your feet feel good.
- High: Anyone with high arches should invest in shoes with arch support, as well as supportive insoles. The best way to tell if shoes have good structure is to try to bend the shoe from the heel to the foot. If it bends easily, it’s best to find a stiffer option.
Avoid shoes with flimsy soles
Our experts agree that sturdy soles are a key feature to look for when shopping for supportive shoes. Not only do they provide shock absorption and prevent your feet from working overtime, but they also allow your orthotics to work more effectively, Williams said. According to Landau, your shoes should only bend at the forefoot, which is the ball of the foot. “If a shoe bends in the middle of the foot, then the patient’s foot will bend there and be stressed there as well,” she said.
Look for side-to-side control and forefoot rockers
According to Landau, arch-supportive shoes should have firm heel counters and good side-to-side control, both of which help limit excess motion. She also recommends opting for shoes designed with forefoot rockers, as most people can benefit from them. “This allows and helps facilitate forward motion,” Landau said. “If the shoe helps your foot bend at the forefoot, then less stress will be placed on the foot to bend. This is especially beneficial in those with forefoot arthritis or forefoot injuries or pain.”
Consider the activity, fit and material
As with any shoes, comfort should always come first. “Ensure that the shoes fit well and feel comfortable on your feet to avoid blisters and discomfort,” Fuchs said. Other factors in your decision should include the intended activity and the material. She recommends opting for shoes made from breathable materials, like mesh uppers and leather.
Pay attention to heel drop and cushioning
Certain features like heel-drop and the level of cushioning are dependent on an individual’s specific needs, Landau said. For example, shoes with a low heel drop and max cushioning would be most useful for those with conditions like fat pad atrophy, she said.
Pair with orthotics
According to Landau, the majority of people have imperfect feet, and shoes alone are typically not enough to provide all the necessary support. For that reason, she finds prefabricated (off-the-shelf) or custom foot orthotic devices are often needed to “further neutralize the deforming forces, reducing the potential to cause injuries during gait.”
FAQs
Yes. Shoes with good arch support help distribute weight, reduce strain on ligaments and provide stability for those with little to no arches.
“Arch-support shoes and orthotics are actually a common and effective treatment for plantar fasciitis,” Dr. Brandon Haghverdian, a foot and ankle surgeon at the Hoag Orthopedic Institute, said. “They work by supporting the midfoot and reducing strain on the plantar fascia with each step.” According to Haghverdian, it’s unlikely that arch-support shoes would lead to plantar fasciitis unless the fit was poor and they were inappropriate for the person’s foot type.
While the best arch-support running shoes will look different for everyone, Williams said that overpronators (those with low arches) will find motion control or stability shoes — like the Hoka Bondi 9 — supportive.
Meet our experts
For this article, we consulted the following experts to gain their professional insights:
- Dr. Suzanne Fuchs, board-certified podiatrist and founder of Luxe Podiatry
- Dr. Brandon Haghverdian, foot and ankle surgeon at the Hoag Orthopedic Institute
- Dr. Samantha Landau, foot and ankle specialist and assistant professor at the Touro University New York College of Podiatric Medicine
- Dr. Priya Parthasarathy, board-certified podiatrist, partner at US Foot & Ankle Specialists and spokesperson for the APMA
- Dr. Don Pelto, board-certified podiatrist and foot and ankle surgeon at Central Massachusetts Podiatry
- Dr. Mitzi Williams, pediatric foot and ankle surgeon at Paley Orthopedic and Spine Institute
Why trust CNN Underscored
CNN Underscored editors and writers ensure every product included in an article is thoroughly vetted and something we ourselves would feel comfortable buying and using. Our team has many decades of collective experience researching, testing and recommending products across every category — from fashion and food, to home goods and health, to electronics and everything in between — and we’re committed to using that expertise to help you make the most of your money and live a better life.
For this article, CNN Underscored associate lifestyle editor Rachel Dennis and updates writer Ellen McAlpine consulted podiatrists to find the best arch-support shoes. Along with other editors, Dennis also tested various models firsthand, analyzing their structure, comfort and durability.
Rachel Dennis is an associate lifestyle editor at CNN Underscored. She oversees the site’s celebrity column, The Essentials, and contributes to lifestyle coverage through roundups and one-off reviews. You can find her watching Lifetime movies, brushing up on her music skills or playing video games.
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