If you often feel pain in your feet, knees, hips, or ankles during or after running, your shoes may not have enough arch support. We evaluated each pair based on fit, quality, comfort, stability, responsiveness, cushioning, and value. Yes, although arch support has different benefits depending on your foot type. If you over- or underpronate, research has shown that running in supportive sneakers can help prevent your ankles from rolling in or out. It also encourages your natural gait and allows for smooth heel-to-toe transitions. The result? Less foot fatigue, plantar fasciitis pain, shin splints, lower back pain, and other discomfort. However, it’s important to find the right balance—having too much arch support is as bad as not having enough, according to podiatrist Marlene Reid, DPM, FACFAS. Most runners should wear shoes with arch support. If you have flat feet or you overpronate, wearing stability or motion control shoes with stiff arch support can help you run more comfortably and prevent injuries. Have high arches? You may underpronate when you run, meaning your ankles roll outward. Look for sneakers with supportive cushioning in the arch. Even runners with neutral arches can benefit from wearing arch support running shoes—you’ll notice better shock absorption and balance on your runs. Our testers run a few times a week—mostly on asphalt, but sometimes on treadmills, trails, and grass. One tester overpronates, while the other tends to pull their arch muscles. Both runners are prone to shin splints and noticed that wearing the Glycerin GTS 20 helped combat the usual pain and fatigue they experience after runs. What We Don't Like Arch Support: Stability | Weight: 9.4 ounces | Drop: 10 millimeters | Cushioning: Plush, yet responsive | Materials: Mesh upper, textile lining, foam midsole, rubber outsole | Our Overall Rating: 5/5 Best for road or track runners, especially if you overpronate. With top-notch arch support and soft, springy cushioning, Brooks’ Glycerin GTS 20 Running Shoe is by far our favorite pair on this list. While testing this sneaker, we found it offered an ideal blend of comfort, stability, and responsiveness. Inside, Brooks’ GuideRails technology along the midfoot and heel helps prevent overpronation and promote your natural stride. We like that the Glycerin GTS 20 has a wider platform than previous models do, providing smooth, balanced transitions from heel to toe. And the super soft cushioning helps absorb shock, minimizing impact during marathon training, short sprints, and everything in between. We’re also impressed by how lightweight this sneaker feels, even though it’s ultra-supportive. The Glycerin GTS 20’s upper is made with breathable mesh that feels smooth, secure, and comfortable, even in warm weather. Plus, the plush collar provides crucial ankle protection and support. We also love that this sneaker has earned the American Podiatric Medical Association’s (APMA) Seal of Acceptance, meaning a group of podiatrists has found that it helps support the health of your feet. Also available in men’s sizes at Amazon, Dick’s Sporting Goods, and Brooks. read more Read More What We Don't Like Arch Support: Stability | Weight: 9.4 ounces | Drop: 10 millimeters | Cushioning: Plush, yet responsive | Materials: Mesh upper, textile lining, foam midsole, rubber outsole | Our Overall Rating: 5/5 Best for road or track runners, especially if you overpronate. With top-notch arch support and soft, springy cushioning, Brooks’ Glycerin GTS 20 Running Shoe is by far our favorite pair on this list. While testing this sneaker, we found it offered an ideal blend of comfort, stability, and responsiveness. Inside, Brooks’ GuideRails technology along the midfoot and heel helps prevent overpronation and promote your natural stride. We like that the Glycerin GTS 20 has a wider platform than previous models do, providing smooth, balanced transitions from heel to toe. And the super soft cushioning helps absorb shock, minimizing impact during marathon training, short sprints, and everything in between. We’re also impressed by how lightweight this sneaker feels, even though it’s ultra-supportive. The Glycerin GTS 20’s upper is made with breathable mesh that feels smooth, secure, and comfortable, even in warm weather. Plus, the plush collar provides crucial ankle protection and support. We also love that this sneaker has earned the American Podiatric Medical Association’s (APMA) Seal of Acceptance, meaning a group of podiatrists has found that it helps support the health of your feet. Also available in men’s sizes at Amazon, Dick’s Sporting Goods, and Brooks. Sold by Price Our testers run a few days each week, mostly on concrete and treadmills. They both deal with occasional knee pain during and after long-distance runs. But during testing, they noticed less knee pain after running in Hoka’s Arahi 6. What We Don't Like Arch Support: Stability | Weight: 7.6 ounces | Drop: 5 millimeters | Cushioning: Maximum | Materials: Mesh upper, foam midsole, rubber outsole | Our Overall Rating: 4.7/5 Best for people who run every day on concrete or asphalt. If overpronate when you run, you likely also have flat feet or fallen arches. Wearing a running shoe with better stability, like Hoka’s Arahi 6 Running Shoe, can help reduce your risk of injury. This APMA Seal of Acceptance-winning pair features Hoka’s J-Frame technology, a stability system that gently aligns your feet without feeling overly stiff. In testing, we immediately noticed their significant arch support and the plush cushioning that Hoka running shoes are known for. Other soft, supportive shoes can feel heavy on your feet—but the Arahi 6 weighs just 7.6 ounces, making it a smart option for daily training. We also like its curved Meta-Rocker sole, which helps you roll through your feet for a smooth, effortless ride. And we found that the breathable mesh upper offers a secure fit, with no irritating seams or tight spots. An extended heel tab makes these easy to throw on whenever you need a reliable road running shoe. Also available in men’s sizes at Hoka, Dick’s Sporting Goods, and REI. read more Read More What We Don't Like Arch Support: Stability | Weight: 7.6 ounces | Drop: 5 millimeters | Cushioning: Maximum | Materials: Mesh upper, foam midsole, rubber outsole | Our Overall Rating: 4.7/5 Best for people who run every day on concrete or asphalt. If overpronate when you run, you likely also have flat feet or fallen arches. Wearing a running shoe with better stability, like Hoka’s Arahi 6 Running Shoe, can help reduce your risk of injury. This APMA Seal of Acceptance-winning pair features Hoka’s J-Frame technology, a stability system that gently aligns your feet without feeling overly stiff. In testing, we immediately noticed their significant arch support and the plush cushioning that Hoka running shoes are known for. Other soft, supportive shoes can feel heavy on your feet—but the Arahi 6 weighs just 7.6 ounces, making it a smart option for daily training. We also like its curved Meta-Rocker sole, which helps you roll through your feet for a smooth, effortless ride. And we found that the breathable mesh upper offers a secure fit, with no irritating seams or tight spots. An extended heel tab makes these easy to throw on whenever you need a reliable road running shoe. Also available in men’s sizes at Hoka, Dick’s Sporting Goods, and REI. Sold by Price Both of our testers run multiple days a week on paved roads, dirt paths, grass, and treadmills. Although they don’t have serious knee pain, one tends to get soreness after a particularly long or hard run, and the other has had knee surgery. What We Don't Like Arch Support: Stability | Weight: 8.6 ounces | Drop: 10 millimeters | Cushioning: Firm | Materials: Knit upper, foam midsole, rubber outsole | Our Overall Rating: 4.5/5 Best for overpronators and treadmill runners—we recommend these sneakers to anyone with no existing foot, knee, or joint pain, since they have firmer cushioning. Brooks’ Launch GTS 10 Running Shoe delivers the arch support and comfort that runners with flat feet need. Featuring the brand’s GuideRails support system, it promotes a natural gait, prevents your ankles from rolling inward, and keeps excess movement in check. When we tested this pair, we were impressed by the Launch GTS 10’s high-quality construction and stable feel. These sneakers’ firm cushioning is ideal for occasional speedwork, while the knit upper allows air to flow to prevent your feet from overheating. We also love how well they fit—true to size and ultra-secure. If you overpronate and haven’t found the right running shoe yet, we highly recommend giving this streamlined pair a try. Also available in women’s sizes at Amazon, Dick’s Sporting Goods, and Brooks. read more Read More What We Don't Like Arch Support: Stability | Weight: 8.6 ounces | Drop: 10 millimeters | Cushioning: Firm | Materials: Knit upper, foam midsole, rubber outsole | Our Overall Rating: 4.5/5 Best for overpronators and treadmill runners—we recommend these sneakers to anyone with no existing foot, knee, or joint pain, since they have firmer cushioning. Brooks’ Launch GTS 10 Running Shoe delivers the arch support and comfort that runners with flat feet need. Featuring the brand’s GuideRails support system, it promotes a natural gait, prevents your ankles from rolling inward, and keeps excess movement in check. When we tested this pair, we were impressed by the Launch GTS 10’s high-quality construction and stable feel. These sneakers’ firm cushioning is ideal for occasional speedwork, while the knit upper allows air to flow to prevent your feet from overheating. We also love how well they fit—true to size and ultra-secure. If you overpronate and haven’t found the right running shoe yet, we highly recommend giving this streamlined pair a try. Also available in women’s sizes at Amazon, Dick’s Sporting Goods, and Brooks. Sold by Price Our tester has some knee pain and weak ankles. They ran in these shoes extensively on asphalt, treadmills, and trails—even completing a marathon in them. What We Don't Like Arch Support: Neutral | Weight: 7.8 ounces | Drop: 8 millimeters | Cushioning: Lightweight and responsive | Materials: Mesh upper, foam midsole, rubber outsole | Our Overall Rating: 4.5/5 Best for marathon or long-distance runners with neutral arches. For distance runners who need supportive, comfortable sneakers for their high-mileage training, we recommend Asics’ Novablast 3 Running Shoes. During testing, we were immediately impressed by their stellar arch support, which cradled our feet in all the right places. But despite this shoe’s maximum cushioning, it’s surprisingly lightweight and responsive. We also found that the Novablast 3 is supportive enough to help stabilize our ankles and legs without feeling too stiff or bulky. Even better, they maintained their comfort, support, and durability over months of use, including a marathon. Plus, the breathable mesh upper is made from recycled materials, so you can feel good about wearing a more sustainable shoe. Also available in men’s sizes at Amazon, Asics, and Dick’s Sporting Goods. read more Read More What We Don't Like Arch Support: Neutral | Weight: 7.8 ounces | Drop: 8 millimeters | Cushioning: Lightweight and responsive | Materials: Mesh upper, foam midsole, rubber outsole | Our Overall Rating: 4.5/5 Best for marathon or long-distance runners with neutral arches. For distance runners who need supportive, comfortable sneakers for their high-mileage training, we recommend Asics’ Novablast 3 Running Shoes. During testing, we were immediately impressed by their stellar arch support, which cradled our feet in all the right places. But despite this shoe’s maximum cushioning, it’s surprisingly lightweight and responsive. We also found that the Novablast 3 is supportive enough to help stabilize our ankles and legs without feeling too stiff or bulky. Even better, they maintained their comfort, support, and durability over months of use, including a marathon. Plus, the breathable mesh upper is made from recycled materials, so you can feel good about wearing a more sustainable shoe. Also available in men’s sizes at Amazon, Asics, and Dick’s Sporting Goods. Sold by Price We’ve tested over 100 running shoes, but they can’t all be winners. Although these sneakers excelled in some categories, they ultimately didn’t earn a spot on our final list of recommendations: After testing over 100 arch support running shoes, Brooks’ Glycerin GTS 20 Running Shoe remains our favorite pair for its wide platform and built-in stability system. As we continue to test all of our top picks at home, we’ll update this list with any new findings or important information. To find the best arch support running shoes, we’ve tested over 100 pairs of sneakers from trusted fitness brands. When we test shoes, we wear them for weeks at a time, running different distances on various terrains. We often have two or more runners test the same pair to see how they fit and feel on different arch types. During testing, we evaluate each shoe based on these key criteria. We often consulted experts for additional guidance while researching and reporting this story. Some, like Bell, shared key information on how running shoes should fit and feel. Others, like Diana Levin Valencia, DPM, and Janine Ferrigno-Taddeo, DPM, advised us on how wearing running shoes with solid arch support can affect the health of your feet. Although we choose products independently, we use expert input to influence our choices. If you’re experiencing pain in the arches of your feet, it’s possible that your current running shoes don’t have the right arch support. Certified personal trainer John Gardner, NASM-CPT, recommends checking the soles’ wear patterns—if you notice a lot of wear on the inside, then you may need more support. You can also consult a podiatrist, a physical therapist, or a specialist at a running store for expert advice on the best running shoes for your arch type and gait. Stability or motion control shoes have the most arch support since they’re designed for runners with very low arches or flat feet. Some of the most popular stability shoes include Brooks’ Glycerin GTS 20 Running Shoe and Hoka’s Arahi 6. If your arches hurt while you run, it could mean that you need different arch support in your running shoes. Reid recommends consulting a podiatrist to determine the cause of your arch pain, your foot type, and any other needs you should consider before shopping for new shoes. Yes: Running shoes with arch support help align your feet correctly to reduce the pressure on your big toe, which may alleviate pain and prevent bunions from forming or worsening. A wide toe box can also help prevent bunions, adds Ferrigno-Taddeo. Christine Luff, ACE-CPT, has more than 20 years of experience writing and editing health and fitness content and product recommendations. As a certified personal trainer, running coach, and avid runner, she’s always researching and testing running shoes. Her current running shoes are Brooks’ Glycerin 20, which have the perfect amount of cushioning and support for her high arches. Expert Tested: The Best Stability Running Shoes for Women Article Sources Malisoux L, Chambon N, Delattre N, Gueguen N, Urhausen A, Theisen D. Injury risk in runners using standard or motion control shoes: a randomised controlled trial with participant and assessor blinding. Br J Sports Med. 2016;50(8):481-7. doi:10.1136/bjsports-2015-095031 Huang YP, Peng HT, Wang X, Chen ZR, Song CY. The arch support insoles show benefits to people with flatfoot on stance time, cadence, plantar pressure and contact area. PLoS ONE. 2020;15(8):e0237382. doi:10.1371/journal.pone.0237382 American Podiatric Medical Association. Which running shoe is right for you?. Jafarnezhadgero A, Alavi-Mehr SM, Granacher U. Effects of anti-pronation shoes on lower limb kinematics and kinetics in female runners with pronated feet: The role of physical fatigue. Boullosa D, ed. PLoS ONE. 2019;14(5):e0216818. doi:10.1371/journal.pone.0216818 Is It Good to Run With Arch Support?
Who Needs Arch Support Running Shoes?
Best Overall
Brooks Women's Glycerin GTS 20
Meet Our Testers
Best for Overpronators
Hoka Women's Arahi 6 Running Shoe
Meet Our Testers
Best for Flat Feet
Brooks Men’s Launch GTS 10 Running Shoe
Meet Our Testers
Best for Long Runs
Asics Women's Novablast 3 Running Shoes
Meet Our Tester
Arch Support Running Shoes We Also Tested
Where We Stand
What to Look for When Shopping for Arch Support Running Shoes
How We Tested the Running Shoes
Our Experts
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you determine if a running shoe has enough arch support for you?
Which running shoes have the highest arch support?
What running shoes should you get if your arches hurt while running?
Can arch support running shoes help with bunions?
Why Trust Verywell Fit
FAQs
What sneaker has the best arch support? ›
- Best overall: Hoka, Clifton 9, $145.
- Best for running: Asics, Gel-Kayano 30, $160.
- Best versatile: New Balance, Fresh Foam X 1080v13, $165.
- Best for plantar fasciitis: Vionic, Limitless Sneaker, $50.
- Best slip-ons: OOFOS, OOMG Eezee Low Shoe, $140.
Runners with medium or normal arches often find that neutral running shoes have the proper arch level for the kind of support they need. People with flat feet or who overpronate should look for shoes in the stability and motion control category. These shoes typically have slightly less cushioning and are a bit stiffer.
What shoe type is best for a person with a high arch? ›A heeled boot is a great example of the type of shoe that might work well to support a higher arch without compromising on aesthetics. The elevated heel, in this instance, pushes the arch into a more natural position while removing some of the strain it would usually bear in a flatter style.
What sneakers do podiatrists recommend? ›- TOPO. Ultrafly 5mm drop.
- New Balance. 890. 990. 1080.
- Saucony. Ride.
- Mizuno. Wave Rider. Wave Creation.
- Nike. Pegasus. Vomero. React Infinity Flyknit.
- HOKA. Bondi. Stinson. Speedgoat.
Vionic Tokyo sneakers provide great arch support, which was our favorite part of them. The arch support offers counter pressure to ease plantar fasciitis pain, and the heel cup provides plenty of support. The soles of the shoes also provided great shock absorption during long walks and Zumba classes.
Is it OK to wear running shoes for walking? ›Running shoes can certainly be used for walking. Nearly every shoe intended for road running can be used as a walking shoe.
Do Hokas have arch support? ›Hoka is widely recognized for its innovative designs and exceptional cushioning. One of the key features of Hoka shoes is their meta-rocker technology, which promotes a smooth and efficient gait cycle. This design, combined with generous arch support, helps to reduce strain on the arch and prevent overpronation.
Are shoes with no arch support bad for your feet? ›A band of tissue called the plantar fascia runs along the bottom of the foot. It pulls on the heel when you walk -- and it works best with the proper arch in your foot. Walking in flimsy shoes without good arch support can overstretch, tear, or inflame the plantar fascia.
What are the symptoms of lack of arch support? ›- Feet tire easily.
- Painful or achy feet, especially in the areas of the arches and heels.
- The inside bottoms of your feet become swollen.
- Foot movement, such as standing on your toes, is difficult.
- Back and leg pain.
How to test yourself for Fallen Arches. Checking for fallen arches or flat feet is fairly simple. Stand upright in bare feet and ask a friend to look at the inner side of your foot. If the entire length of your foot is touching the ground, then you have a fallen arch or flat foot.
Do podiatrists recommend Skechers Arch Fit? ›
What do podiatrists think of Skechers? Many people who are looking for arch support footwear have previously spoken to a podiatrist and been given advice on what to look for, and in most cases only a few brands will be mentioned with Skechers certainly being one of them.
What kind of shoes do I need if my arches hurt? ›If you have arch pain, choosing shoes that provide support is essential. This means avoiding high heels and any shoes that don't have good arch support. Instead, look for shoes with a firm sole and plenty of cushioning. You may also want to consider orthotic inserts to help support your arches.
Do flat feet need high or low arch support? ›Flat feet can't be transformed into feet with high arches, nor do they need to be. Start with a low or medium arch (based on whether you have a rigid flat foot or flexible flat foot). Shoe insoles with arch support that is high or extra high may be uncomfortable and give you the feeling of a golf ball in your shoe.
Are Hokas good for arch support? ›Hoka is widely recognized for its innovative designs and exceptional cushioning. One of the key features of Hoka shoes is their meta-rocker technology, which promotes a smooth and efficient gait cycle. This design, combined with generous arch support, helps to reduce strain on the arch and prevent overpronation.
Are Skechers good for arch support? ›Many people who are looking for arch support footwear have previously spoken to a podiatrist and been given advice on what to look for, and in most cases only a few brands will be mentioned with Skechers certainly being one of them.
Does Nike have arch support sneakers? ›Nike's New Pegasus Sneaker Offers the Best Arch and Joint Support Yet—And the Comfort Is Unparalleled.