Do your feet feel tired and achy after just a short walk? You’re not alone! Many people have high arches, and finding the right walking shoes can feel like a treasure hunt with no map. It’s tough because shoes that work for others might cause your feet to hurt or even lead to injuries.
High arches mean your foot doesn’t flatten much when you walk. This can put extra pressure on your heel and the ball of your foot. Because of this, you need shoes that offer good cushioning and support to keep your feet happy and healthy. It’s easy to get confused by all the different features and brands out there. But don’t worry, we’re here to help!
In this post, we’ll break down exactly what makes a walking shoe great for high arches. You’ll learn what to look for, what to avoid, and discover some top picks that will make your walks a joy instead of a chore. Get ready to step into comfort and say goodbye to foot pain!
Our Top 5 Walking Shoe For High Arch Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Walking Shoe For High Arch Detailed Reviews
1. Brooks Women’s Ghost 16 Neutral Running Shoe – White/Grey/Estate Blue – 10 Wide
Rating: 9.0/10
The Brooks Women’s Ghost 16 Neutral Running Shoe in White/Grey/Estate Blue, size 10 Wide, is designed for runners who want a smooth and comfortable experience. This shoe focuses on making your runs enjoyable without any distractions. It’s a great option for all sorts of activities, from running on the road to walking or even hitting the gym.
What We Like:
- The nitrogen-infused DNA Loft v3 cushioning provides a soft and lightweight feel that’s great for neutral runners.
- The Segmented Crash Pad helps your foot move smoothly from landing to pushing off, making every step feel effortless.
- The engineered air mesh upper is breathable, keeping your feet cool and comfortable. It also offers a good balance of stretch and support.
- The new RoadTack rubber outsole is durable, light, and offers a good rebound, making it suitable for various surfaces.
- This shoe is a certified carbon neutral product, which is good for the environment.
- It’s also a certified PDAC A5500 Diabetic shoe and has the APMA Seal of Acceptance, meaning it’s recognized for its foot health benefits.
What Could Be Improved:
- The 3D Fit Print, while designed for a secure fit, might feel a bit restrictive for some runners with very wide feet, even in the 10 Wide size.
- While the cushioning is soft, some runners who prefer a firmer feel might find it a little too plush for their liking during longer runs.
Overall, the Brooks Ghost 16 offers a fantastic blend of comfort and smooth performance. It’s a reliable choice for runners seeking a distraction-free and supportive ride.
2. Skechers Women’s Go Walk Arch Fit Unify Sneaker
Rating: 8.7/10
Step into amazing comfort and support with the Skechers Women’s Go Walk Arch Fit Unify Sneaker in Gray/Lavender, size 7.5. These aren’t just any sneakers; they’re designed to make your feet feel great all day long. Whether you’re running errands or taking a leisurely stroll, these shoes offer incredible comfort and stability. The stylish gray and lavender color combination adds a touch of fun to any outfit.
What We Like:
- The patented Skechers Arch Fit insole system is a game-changer. It’s podiatrist-certified for arch support, which really helps your feet feel better.
- You can even remove the insole! This lets it mold to your foot shape, reducing shock and spreading your weight evenly.
- The Ultra Go cushioning is super lightweight and responsive. It also has Comfort Pillar Technology for extra support where you need it most.
- You get great stability thanks to the durable dual-density traction outsole.
- The engineered mesh upper is breathable, keeping your feet cool and comfy.
- These sneakers are machine washable, making cleanup a breeze. Just let them air dry!
- They are made with 100% vegan materials, which is great for the environment.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the removable insole is a great feature, some users might find it takes a little time to fully mold to their foot.
- The unique color combination, while attractive to many, might not be for everyone.
These Skechers sneakers are a fantastic choice for anyone seeking superior comfort and support. They combine innovative technology with practical features for a truly enjoyable walking experience.
3. Ryka Women’s Devotion Plus 3 Walking Shoes Navy 8 M
Rating: 9.1/10
Step into comfort and performance with the Ryka Women’s Devotion Plus 3 Walking Shoes in Navy, size 8 Medium. These shoes are built for women who love to walk and need a shoe that can keep up. They offer great support and cushioning, making every step feel good.
What We Like:
- These shoes are great for serious fitness walking.
- The RE-ZORB cushioning really helps absorb shock and protect your feet.
- They are designed specifically for women’s feet, with a snugger heel and more room in the toe.
- The breathable mesh upper keeps your feet cool and dry.
- The soft lining and extra padding around the tongue and collar feel super comfortable.
- The special eight-piece rubber sole gives you excellent grip and lasts a long time.
What Could Be Improved:
- The navy color might not match every outfit.
- While designed for women, some might prefer a wider toe box option.
The Ryka Women’s Devotion Plus 3 Walking Shoes are a fantastic choice for anyone seeking a supportive and comfortable walking shoe. They deliver on performance and feel great on your feet.
4. Ryka Women’s
Rating: 8.5/10
Step into comfort and performance with the Ryka Women’s Devotion X Walking Shoe in Black. These shoes are built for women who love to walk and want the best support for their feet.
What We Like:
- Amazing comfort for long walks thanks to full-length RE-ZORB cushioning.
- Great shock absorption protects your feet and joints.
- Designed especially for a woman’s foot, with a snugger heel and more toe room.
- Breathable mesh keeps your feet cool and dry.
- Made with some recycled materials, which is good for the planet.
- Secure lace-up closure means your shoes stay put.
- Extra cushioning in the forefoot and heel adds even more comfort.
What Could Be Improved:
- Some users might prefer even more arch support.
- Limited color options available in this specific model.
If you’re looking for a supportive and comfortable walking shoe, the Ryka Devotion X is a fantastic option. Your feet will thank you on every stride.
5. BiNHam Women’s Walking Shoes with Arch Support Plantar Fasciitis Relief Tennis Sneakers Comfortable for Gym Workout Pink Purple 8.5
Rating: 9.4/10
Step into comfort and relief with the BiNHam Women’s Walking Shoes. These pink and purple tennis sneakers are designed to support your feet all day long, whether you’re hitting the gym or running errands. They offer excellent arch support and help ease pain from common foot issues.
What We Like:
- Targeted Arch Support: These shoes really focus on giving your arches the help they need. They are made to help with plantar fasciitis, flat feet, and other common foot problems. Your feet will feel more comfortable.
- Great Shock Absorption: The special wedge shape and rubber sole soak up bumps and shocks. This protects your knees and feet. The non-slip sole also keeps you from sliding.
- Revolutionary Walking Comfort: The orthotic insole changes how your foot lands. It gives your arch more support and helps you keep your balance. This can make a big difference for foot and heel pain.
- Roomy and Cozy Fit: These shoes have a soft lining for a snug feel. The wide toe box gives your toes plenty of room to move. They are built for lasting comfort.
- Versatile for Many Activities: With good support, shock absorption, and breathability, your feet stay happy. They are great for walking, gym workouts, jogging, traveling, or even for nurses on their feet all day.
What Could Be Improved:
- The color combination might not appeal to everyone.
- More size options could be beneficial.
If you’re looking for shoes that combine comfort and support for your active lifestyle, the BiNHam Women’s Walking Shoes are a fantastic choice.
Finding Your Perfect Fit: The Best Walking Shoes for High Arches
Do your feet feel tired or sore after a walk? Do you notice a gap between your foot and the ground when you stand? You might have high arches! High arches mean your foot doesn’t flatten much when you walk. This can put extra pressure on certain parts of your foot. The good news is, the right walking shoes can make a huge difference. Let’s find your perfect pair!
Key Features to Look For
When you’re shopping for walking shoes for high arches, some things are super important.
- **Excellent Arch Support:** This is the big one! Look for shoes with a built-in, firm arch support. It should hug your arch and keep your foot from collapsing inward.
- **Good Cushioning:** High arches often need extra shock absorption. Plush cushioning in the midsole (the middle part of the shoe) will soften every step.
- **Neutral or Motion Control:** Most people with high arches do best in neutral shoes. These shoes don’t try to correct your foot’s natural movement. Some people might need motion control shoes if their arches are very rigid and their feet roll outward.
- **Deep Heel Cup:** A well-defined heel cup holds your heel in place. This stops your foot from sliding around and adds stability.
- **Flexible Forefoot:** While you need support, the front of the shoe should still bend with your foot as you walk.
Important Materials
The materials your shoes are made of matter a lot for comfort and durability.
- **Uppers:** Breathable mesh is great. It keeps your feet cool and prevents sweat. Leather or synthetic leather can offer more support and durability, but might feel warmer.
- **Midsoles:** EVA (ethylene-vinyl acetate) and PU (polyurethane) are common. EVA is lighter and more cushioned. PU is denser and offers more support. Many shoes use a combination.
- **Outsoles:** Rubber is the standard. Look for durable rubber that offers good grip on different surfaces.
- **Insoles:** Removable insoles are a bonus. They let you swap them out for custom orthotics if you need even more personalized support.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
What makes a walking shoe great or just okay?
- **Good Quality:** Shoes with strong stitching, high-density foam, and durable rubber outsoles tend to last longer. A shoe that feels well-built will support your feet better over time.
- **Bad Quality:** Cheap materials will wear out quickly. If the cushioning flattens after a few uses or the sole starts to peel, the shoe wasn’t made to last. Poorly placed support can actually hurt your feet.
User Experience and Use Cases
How do these shoes feel and where can you use them?
- **Comfort:** The best shoes make you forget you’re wearing them. You should feel supported and cushioned, not like your foot is being squeezed or is hitting a hard surface.
- **Reduced Pain:** Many users report less foot, ankle, and even knee pain when they switch to shoes designed for high arches.
- **Everyday Wear:** These shoes are perfect for your daily walks, errands, or even standing for long periods.
- **Travel:** If you do a lot of walking while traveling, supportive shoes are a must.
- **Light Hiking:** Some supportive walking shoes can handle light trails.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the most important thing for walking shoes with high arches?
A: The most important thing is excellent arch support. It needs to lift and support your arch.
Q: Do I need a lot of cushioning with high arches?
A: Yes, good cushioning helps absorb shock and makes walking more comfortable.
Q: Can I use shoes with a lot of arch support if I don’t have high arches?
A: Usually, no. Too much support can be uncomfortable or even cause pain if your arches are normal or flat.
Q: Are motion control shoes good for high arches?
A: Most people with high arches do better with neutral shoes. Motion control shoes are for feet that roll inward too much.
Q: What does “neutral shoe” mean?
A: A neutral shoe doesn’t have special features to change how your foot moves. It lets your foot move naturally.
Q: Can I put my own insoles into walking shoes?
A: Yes, if the shoes have removable insoles. This is good if you need custom orthotics.
Q: How long should good walking shoes last?
A: With regular use, good quality walking shoes should last between 300-500 miles, or about 6-12 months.
Q: What happens if I wear the wrong shoes for my high arches?
A: You might get foot pain, shin splints, plantar fasciitis, or knee pain.
Q: Where can I buy these types of shoes?
A: You can find them at shoe stores, sporting goods stores, and online retailers.
Q: How do I know if a shoe has good arch support?
A: Try the shoe on and feel if the arch support fits snugly under your foot. It shouldn’t feel too hard or too soft.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.