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Best shoes with arch support, tested and reviewed
These kicks from brands like Hoka, Brooks and Orthofeet offer style without strain.
Are your feet begging for a break before you've even started your day? If walking feels more like a punishment than a privilege, it's time for a shoe intervention. The best shoes with arch support can change the game, whether running a marathon, chasing grandkids or just heading out to do errands. Because let's face it — life's too short for uncomfortable shoes.
Best overall
Hoka Bondi 8
Best running
Brooks Hyperion Max 2
Best walking
Saucony Hurricane 24
Best trail
Kuru ATOM Trail
Best recovery
Oofos OOlala Sandal
Best sandal
Kuru Kala
Best slip-on
OOfos OOcozie Low
Best casual
Birkenstock Bend Low
Best boot
Orthofeet Emma
Your feet are hard-working overachievers, logging thousands of steps daily to keep you moving. But feet aren't one-size-fits-all when it comes to support. If you have high arches, flat feet or something in between, your arches play a critical role in how your body moves and absorbs impact. Without proper support, your feet could become overworked, unstable or just downright cranky.
As Rob Hermann, a registered specialist podiatric foot and ankle surgeon, explains, "Individuals may require extra support for their arches, due to various reasons." For example, "High arches can lead to excessive pressure on the balls and heels of the feet, causing discomfort and potential issues like plantar fasciitis or Achilles tendonitis. Proper arch support helps distribute weight more evenly and reduces strain on the foot's natural arch." Likewise, those with flatfeet can also benefit from arch support. "Good arch support is essential, as it helps evenly distribute your body weight across your foot, preventing pressure points," says Brent Wells, a chiropractic physician, although he adds that too high or rigid an arch can overcorrect the problem, so moderate arch support for enhanced stability is ideal.
But it's not just about flat or high arches. Hermann also explains that if your feet tend to roll inward (pronation) or outward (supination) a little too much, you might notice some imbalance or pain. "Arch support helps control these movements, promoting proper alignment and reducing strain on the feet, ankles and knees," he notes.
And let's not forget injury prevention and medical conditions. If you're recovering from a foot injury, running marathons or managing conditions like arthritis or diabetes, shoes with arch support are an essential upgrade. They absorb shock, protect your feet and keep you comfortable and stable on the move.
The bottom line? Arch support isn't just about comfort — it's about keeping your feet happy and healthy for the long haul. And who wouldn't want that? The best shoes with arch support help prevent pain while promoting alignment, stability and comfort, all without sacrificing style.
If you're ready to take the pressure off your arches, you're in the right place. To find the best shoes with arch support, we consulted three leading foot care experts — a podiatrist, a chiropractor and a physical therapist — and spent hours researching options before testing 15 top-rated pairs to create our comprehensive list of the best arch support sneakers and the best running shoes with arch support, not to mention leading sandals, casual shoes, slip-ons and more.
Our arch-supporting champs will have your feet singing hallelujah with every step. Keep reading to find your perfect pair.
Best overall shoes with arch support
Men's/Women's/Unisex: Women's and men's | Sizing: 5-12 (women) 7-16 (men) including half sizes | Widths: Regular, wide, extra-wide (men's only) | # colors: 13 (women) 28 (men) | Heel drop: 4 mm
Whether walking, running or just spending extra time on your feet, the Hoka Bondi 8 are a solid all-around solution for anyone looking for arch support without added stability features. These are considered a neutral shoe with neutral stability. In other words, if you have normal to high arches and your foot strike doesn't involve too much pronation or supination (inward or outward rolling of the ankle and foot), these might be the perfect pick for you.
"I have high arches and need some support, but I've found that having too high or firm of an arch in my shoes actually causes more discomfort," says our tester. "These Hokas provided lots of cushion and helped keep my foot and arch aligned (the heel cup was perfect for keeping my foot in place), and I didn't notice any pain or strain through my arch, even on the days I took longer walks."
They come in men's and women's versions, with lots of color and style choices and several width options for individuals with wider feet. They're also backed by the APMA's seal of acceptance for promoting foot health. While their prices tend to be at the higher end of the spectrum, the Bondi 8 are currently on sale for less than $120 (still an investment, but a more reasonable price), after the brand's Bondi 9 was recently released.
- Exceptional cushioning, with a thick midsole
- Rocker-shaped bottom promotes smooth transitions from heel to toe
- Mesh upper allows for maximum breathability
- Carries the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA) Seal of Acceptance
- Many color/style options
- Heavier than some other options
- Midsole may be too firm for some
- Premium pricing at $165
More shoes with arch support we like in 2025
Men's/Women's/Unisex: Women's and men's | Sizing: 5-12 (women) 7-15 (men), including half sizes | Widths: Medium | # colors: 3 | Heel drop: 6 mm
Runners who want a cushioned, supportive shoe with a neutral fit (not too high of an arch or added features for increased stability) are sure to appreciate the lightweight and responsive fit of the Brooks Hyperion Max 2. This shoe is a light 8.3 ounces, with a breathable and flexible upper and a bouncy, cushioned sole that's perfect for training or race days. The neutral fit allows for natural foot movement and full flexion and extension at the ankle and through the heel, foot bed and toes.
The arch support itself comes not so much from a high arch, but from the high-quality fit of the shoe through the heel, ankle and mid-foot, which helps support proper alignment and movement patterns. "Sometimes you put on a shoe and you just say, 'Yes, this is it.' That's how I felt when I put on these shoes," shares our tester. Given her training schedule for running, she often logs more than 40 miles of running a week, and while she has a neutral foot, she still needs support to help prevent pain and injury. These have become her go-to training shoes.
The Hyperion Max 2 come in just three colors and a single width (medium), so they don't have the broad range of sizing or style options that some other shoes have. However, it's worth noting there are a few versions of the same shoe that might be more appropriate for some runners. The Hyperion GTS 2 provides good cushioning (but not as much as the Max) and additional stability features, including the brand's "GuideRails" for added support (ideal for those with flatter feet or who overpronate). The Hyperion 2 is an even lighter-weight version of the Max (just 6.3 ounces) with less cushioning, a slightly larger heel drop (8 mm) and a neutral fit.
- Responsive cushioning, with a nitrogen-infused DNA FLASH midsole
- Pebax plate in the midsole offers stability and smooth transitions from heel to toe
- Updated upper material delivers a comfortable and secure fit
- Outsole designed for durability
- Heavier than its predecessor, which may be noticeable
- Less bouncy than some competitors
- No wide fit options
- Limited colorways
Men's/Women's/Unisex: Women's and men's | Sizing: 5-12 (women) 7-15 (men) including half sizes | Widths: Regular and wide | # colors: 13 (women) 16 (men) | Heel drop: 6 mm
The best walking shoes are those designed to support and cushion your foot as you log lots of miles. The Saucony Hurricane 24 shoes are specifically "made for daily movement" which means they'll carry you through every activity, whether that's taking a 3-mile walk around the neighborhood, logging steps as you work or simply keeping you comfortable as you run errands.
These shoes are considered "stability" shoes, so they're ideal for those who have flatfeet or tend to overpronate while walking, providing added arch support to help prevent this excessive inward movement. They also feature a wider base for greater ground support and higher sidewalls with their "PWRRUN Frame," which helps surround the foot from every angle. Finally, the "max cushioning" helps reduce impact with every step, helping prevent strain that can lead to pain or fatigue.
"I was impressed by how much support these shoes offered," said our tester. "I really felt like the 'hugged' my foot and kept it in place. The arch support itself was also ideal for my feet — not so much that I felt excess pressure, but definitely enough to prevent overpronation that tends to cause pain through my arch."
- PWRRUN+ midsole, which is plush and responsive during prolonged walking sessions
- Engineered for stability with a flared base and supportive sidewalls
- Mesh upper with padded collar and tongue reduce the likelihood of rubs
- Robust rubber outsole offering reliable traction on walking surfaces
- Heavier weight, which might cause fatigue during long walks
- Substantial build can feel cumbersome, potentially affecting gait
- Padded upper may retain heat
Men's/Women's/Unisex: Women's and men's | Sizing: 6-12 (women) 7-13 (men) including half sizes | Widths: Medium | # colors: 3 (women) 2 (men) | Heel drop: 8 mm
If you tend to get active by hitting the trails, you need a shoe that's designed for more rugged terrain. The Kuru ATOM Trail shoe is a running sneaker that's been revamped for trail use, ideal for trail running or hiking. Kuru focuses on foot health and it has a proprietary heel cushioning system that helps dynamically support heel movement throughout each foot strike, which ultimately provides more support through the arch, as well.
These trail-ready shoes are a bit more rigid and durable than your average sneakers, and they're heavier, too, so they're not a pair to use if your walking is more casual. But for those who need to be able to take rocks, roots and uneven terrain in stride, the aggressive traction on the sole, the toe bumper and the abrasion-resistant uppers all add up to wins for this shoe. They also feature Kuru's "ultimate insoles" for added arch support and a roomy toebox to allow for natural movement through the ball of the foot and the toes.
"These are actually a little stiffer and more rigid than the trail shoes I typically run in, so I wasn't sure if I would like these," said our tester. "That said, the heel support is fantastic, and I really felt like I got the arch support I needed without excessive cushioning. Plus, the soles are super grippy, so I wasn't worried about slipping or sliding, even when jogging in wet conditions."
- Features proprietary KURUSOLE technology with dynamic mid-arch support and extra heel cushioning
- Mesh upper enhances airflow, keeping feet cool and dry
- Versatile enough to use for trail hiking or casual wear
- Vegan materials
- The 8 mm heel-to-toe drop might not suit those accustomed to zero-drop or minimalist footwear
- Forefoot cushioning may be insufficient for extended exercise sessions
- The $160 price point is pricier than some options
Men's/Women's/Unisex: Women's | Sizing: 5-11 | Widths: Regular | # colors: 2 | Heel drop: Unlisted
Flip-flops are typically no-gos when it comes to arch support, but OOfos OOlala Sandals (and the other OOfos sandals) are an exception to the rule. In fact, all of OOfos products carry the APMA seal of acceptance for supporting foot health.
These cushy, comfy flip-flops feature the brand's proprietary OOfoam which offers exceptional support. They also feature a high level of arch support and a slightly curved base to encourage proper foot alignment and movement through every step, while reducing overall impact through the joints of the lower body.
"I love these flip-flops," said our tester. "I would live in them if I could." Of course, flip-flops aren't always suitable for every activity, so they're best reserved for recovery days when your feet deserve extra support and care. "I'm keeping them in my gym bag to switch to after my workouts and to wear while running errands, which I often do after hitting the gym," shared our tester.
While these flip-flops are very comfy, they don't come in many colors or styles, so you may want to check out all of OOfos sandal options if you're looking for more variety.
- Proprietary OOfoam technology absorbs 37% more impact than traditional foams
- Biomechanically engineered footbed offers substantial arch support
- Constructed with lightweight materials to enhance ease of movement and comfort
- Sleek, versatile design suitable for different occasions
- Machine-washable
- Limited color options
- Can be slippery on wet or smooth surfaces
- May require a break-in period
Men's/Women's/Unisex: Women's and men's | Sizing: 5-12 (women) 7-13 (men) | Widths: Medium | # colors: 4 (women) 2 (men) | Heel drop: 0 mm
Again, flip-flops aren't typically the best shoes for arch support, but certain brands (like OOfos and Kuru) take steps to make sure their sandals are built for walking. These cute Kala sandals from Kuru are the perfect mix of form and function that are a little more "wearable" (i.e., fashionable) for hanging out with friends or pairing with jeans or a casual dress.
"I was immediately drawn to the look of these sandals — much more attractive than your standard flip-flop, and high-quality, too," said our tester. She noted, however, that she wasn't sure she would like them for arch support because of their more rigid build (she's the same tester who tested the OOfos flip-flops).
However, she was impressed. "Once I had worn them for a few days and broken them in, these became my go-tos for daily use," she says. "While less cushioned than the OOfos, the arch support is sufficient for a neutral foot like mine, and the heel feels great. Plus, I have size 11 feet, and some flip-flops don't really feel like they actually fit my foot — these fit like a glove."
Of course, at $95, they're not cheap. Their durable build ensures they'll last a while (our tester used them for four months without any problem), but you definitely need to determine whether the price fits in your budget.
- Built-in arch support to alleviate discomfort associated with conditions like plantar fasciitis
- KURUSOLE technology in the footbed cradles the heel and adapts to the foot's natural shape
- Full-grain leather uppers and a non-marking rubber outsole
- Lightweight construction weighing approximately 5.6 ounces based on a woman's size 8
- Versatile, sleek design and neutral color scheme
- No half sizes
- May require a break-in period
- Positioned at a higher price than standard flip-flops
Men's/Women's/Unisex: Women's | Sizing: 5-12 | Widths: Regular | # colors: 5 | Heel drop: Unlisted
If you're looking for a casual slip-on shoe to wear during the colder months, OOfos swoops in for the win, yet again. Just like the flip-flops included on this list, these OOfos OOcozie Low shoes feature the OOfoam technology that provides foot support while reducing impact through each step. These are a great daily shoe or a recovery shoe option to put to use during the colder winter months, when sandals or flip-flops are less practical.
"I was surprised at the way the entire footbed, from my heel through the ball of my foot and my toes, seemed to really conform to my foot and my steps. There's a very pronounced and cushioned arch, which I found particularly comfortable," our tester shared. "Plus, they're machine-washable — that's huge. If I decide to throw them on without socks, I don't have to worry about them starting to smell. Super functional."
Like all of OOfos shoes, these come with the APMA seal of acceptance for foot health. They also come with a higher price point than many slip-ons or clogs. One nice thing, though, is that each purchase is protected with a 30-day trial period — if you decide you don't like them, you can send them back for a full refund.
- Shock-absorbing OOfoam technology to reduce stress on feet, joints and lower back
- Contoured footbed provides substantial arch support
- Constructed with warm vegan sherpa material
- Machine-washable
- Easy to slip on and go
- Pronounced arch support may be too much for those with flatter feet
- Not overly durable
- At $120, the cost is relatively high compared to other casual footwear options
Men's/Women's/Unisex: Women's and men's | Sizing: 4-12.5 (women) 6-17.5 (men) | Widths: Regular/wide and medium/narrow | # colors: 5 | Heel drop: Unlisted
When you think of Birkenstocks, you likely think of their classic sandals, but the brand has an array of shoe styles, all of which are designed to support foot mechanics and improve gait. The Birkenstock Bend Low is no different, and it makes a great option for those who need a casual, comfortable shoe for daily wear. The firm base, deep heel cup and arch support are all intended to allow the foot to move as intended but without excessive cushioning.
Our tester wasn't sure he loved these the first time he put them on, but after a few weeks of wear, they became his favorite non-sneaker shoes. This is largely because the cork-latex footbed shaped to his foot with more wear, creating a custom fit that was hard to beat. The laces also give the flexibility to create the fit needed on a day-to-day basis, as he found that some days it felt better for his shoes to be a little looser, while other days he wanted a closer fit.
"While I loved the style of these shoes right out of the box, I wasn't sure I'd love their performance the first time I put them on," he says. "They don't provide arch support in the sense of an over-pronounced arch itself, but the entire fit through the footbed and the way they gradually conform to your foot shape and gait with use, ultimately make them a good choice."
- Classic sneaker design that works well in multiple settings
- Ergonomically shaped footbed, providing substantial arch support and promoting proper foot alignment
- Constructed with soft natural leather that molds to the foot over time
- Sturdy build to ensure longevity
- Breathable microfiber lining
- May require a significant break-in time
- Natural leather upper prone to scuffing
- Overall cushioning is less than some athletic sneakers'
Men's/Women's/Unisex: Women's | Sizing: 6-11 | Widths: Medium, wide, extra-wide | # colors: 4 | Heel drop: Unlisted
These Emma boots from Orthofeet offer a nice combination of style and comfort and come packed with features designed to support foot health and customized fit through the arch. Specifically, the Emma comes with its own orthotic insole, spacers and an arch booster, so you can add or remove parts to find the perfect fit for your feet. Our tester has high arches but doesn't need extra-high arch support, so she didn't add the booster. She did, however, add one of the fitting spacers that you can place under the insole to ensure the shoes conformed effectively to her feet. "With all the custom fitting options, you're going to be able to find the right level of fit and comfort for your needs," she says.
In addition to the custom fitting features, the Emma boots have a padded interior without seams or overlays that could cause rubbing or irritation. The toebox is wide (no pinching!) and the zipper closure makes them easy to get on and off.
While most experts suggest wearing no more than a 1.5-inch heel to prevent excess pressure on the arch and the ball of the foot — the Emma features a 2-inch heel. Our tester didn't note any issues with the additional height, but she admitted that she never wore them for more than a couple of hours at a time, reducing the likelihood that this would cause strain. It's something to be aware of if you're looking for boots to wear all day. In that case, you might want to try something without a heel, like the Orthofeet Blaire Hands Free.
- Premium orthotic insole with anatomical arch support and cushioning
- Ergonomic sole that promotes ease of walking and reduces stress on the joints
- Extra depth and wide toe box provide a relaxed fit, making it suitable for individuals with bunions, hammertoes or swollen feet
- Includes fitting spacers and an Arch Booster for customized support and fit
- 60-day wear test with free shipping and returns
- Break-in period required
- Smooth leather upper is prone to scuffs and requires regular care
- Leather construction may offer less breathability
Factors to consider when purchasing shoes with arch support
When shopping for footwear with arch support, here are some crucial factors to consider:
Arch type
Understanding your foot's arch type — low (flat), normal or high — is the first step (pun intended!) in selecting suitable footwear. Each arch type requires different support levels:
Low arches (flat feet): Individuals with flatfeet are more prone to overpronation, where the foot rolls inward excessively. Stability or motion-control shoes with firm arch support can help prevent this.
High arches: High arches may lead to underpronation, causing insufficient shock absorption. Cushioned shoes that provide flexibility and support are recommended.
Neutral arches: Those with neutral arches can opt for shoes that balance cushioning and support.
Arch support features
When evaluating shoes, check for components that support the arch. Wells says, "Ensure the sole has an arch contour that matches the natural curve of your foot," as this promotes better posture and reduces fatigue.
The midfoot region should also be firm enough to provide stability, but with cushioning for comfort. You can assess the firmness by pressing on the arch area — it should resist pressure while providing some give. Hermann notes, "Arch support should be firm enough to provide support but not so rigid that it feels uncomfortable."
Finally, look for a well-defined heel cup to stabilize the rear foot and reduce excessive inward roll. Additionally, midfoot stability features are essential to prevent unnecessary movement, effectively supporting the arches and promoting a natural gait. As Wells emphasizes, "Check for a rigid heel counter to stabilize the rear foot and reduce excessive pronation."
Material and durability
The materials used in a shoe's construction are crucial in its comfort and durability. Hermann emphasizes, "Quality arch support is often made from materials that are durable and resilient, such as EVA foam, polyurethane or molded plastic. These materials can provide the necessary support, while also maintaining their shape over time."
Additionally, the upper part of the shoe, when made from breathable and flexible materials, enhances comfort by allowing better air circulation and accommodating natural foot movements. These features contribute significantly to the overall comfort and functionality of the footwear.
Proper fit
Ensuring your shoes fit properly is crucial for comfort and foot health. As Hermann notes, "Look at where the arch support is located within the shoe. It should align with the natural arch of your foot." This is critical, as misalignment can lead to discomfort and insufficient support.
Over time, factors like aging, weight changes and pregnancy can alter your foot size and shape. Therefore, measuring your feet periodically is advisable to ensure you select the correct shoe size. It's important to note that feet tend to swell throughout the day, so measuring them in the evening can provide a more accurate assessment of their size.
Whenever possible, Hermann recommends, "Try on shoes and walk around in them to assess how they feel." When you do so, wear the type of socks you plan to use with them to get a true sense of fit. Always try on both shoes, as most people have slight size variations between their feet — the larger foot should dictate the size you choose. Stand and walk in the shoes to ensure adequate space — about a quarter to a half-inch — between your longest toe and the end of the shoe.
Space for orthotics
Orthotics are specialized devices designed to support, align or enhance the foot and ankle function. They range from over-the-counter shoe inserts to custom-made appliances tailored to your specific needs. By redistributing pressure and modifying movement patterns, orthotics can alleviate foot pain and improve mobility.
Ensuring your shoes have adequate space is crucial when using orthotic inserts. Shoes that are too tight can compress the orthotic, leading to discomfort and reducing its effectiveness. Therefore, opting for shoes with removable insoles is beneficial. As Hermann explains, "Some brands offer shoes with removable insoles, allowing you to replace them with custom orthotics if needed for additional support."
How we chose
To select the best shoes with arch support, we first interviewed experts in the field — a foot and ankle surgeon, physical therapist and chiropractor — to determine who benefits most from shoes with arch support and which features to look for in arch-supporting shoes. We then reviewed dozens of brands and hundreds of models of shoes, focusing on those with credentials supporting foot health (like the APMA seal of acceptance). Finally, we personally tested and reviewed 15 pairs of shoes from eight different brands to come up with our top choices. We're continuing to test and review shoes on a rolling basis to make ongoing updates to this article in 2025, based on our findings.
FAQs
Who needs shoes with arch support?
Specific populations should pay extra attention to arch support, including:
Those on their feet all day: Anyone who stands all day is more susceptible to foot fatigue and discomfort, particularly if their shoes don't provide proper arch support. The right shoes can help alleviate pain in this population.
Athletes: Hermann explains, "Athletes, particularly runners, basketball players and other sports that involve repetitive impact on the feet, can benefit from proper arch support, to improve performance and reduce the risk of injury. Arch support helps maintain proper foot alignment and stability during dynamic movements, enhancing overall biomechanics and reducing the risk of overuse injuries."
People with foot conditions: People with specific foot conditions may require extra attention to arch support to manage symptoms and prevent further complications. "Those with low or collapsed arches need good arch support, as flatfeet can lead to supination, leading to pain in feet, knees or ankles," explains Palak Shah, PT, OCS, MLC, co-founder, head of clinical services at Luna.
Senior adults: Shah explains, "As we age, the natural fat padding in our feet decreases, making arch support crucial for comfort and stability. Falls are a significant concern for older adults, and proper footwear can help prevent them."
Pregnant people: "Pregnancy can cause hormonal changes and weight gain that can affect foot structure and biomechanics, leading to issues like overpronation and flatfeet," says Hermann. He continues, "Additionally, the increased weight and pressure on the feet during pregnancy can exacerbate foot pain and discomfort. Proper arch support can help alleviate these symptoms and support the feet during this period of physical change."
Is arch support always necessary?
"A common misconception is that everyone needs arch support," says Wells. "In reality, the necessity varies based on individual biomechanics." Hermann agrees, saying, "Some people have naturally strong arches and don't require additional support."
"Over-reliance on arch supports can weaken intrinsic foot muscles, exacerbating issues," notes Wells. "Additionally, not all foot pain stems from arch problems; other factors like gait abnormalities or hip alignment can contribute," he continues.
Therefore, proper assessment by a foot specialist is crucial to determine if you'd benefit from arch support.
How can I assess my arch height?
Determining your foot arch type helps you select appropriate footwear. A simple and effective method to assess your arch type is the "wet footprint" test. All you need do is wet the bottom of your foot and step onto a piece of cardboard or paper, applying even pressure to create a clear imprint.
Hermann explains, "If you see only a thin strip connecting the heel to the ball of the foot, you likely have high arches. If you see a distinct curve along the inside of the foot, with a width between the heel and ball of the foot, you likely have normal arches. If you see a wide footprint with little to no curve along the inside of the foot, you likely have flatfeet."
What type of shoes should I avoid with arch issues?
Certain types of shoes can exacerbate arch issues and should be avoided. They include:
Flat shoes: Ballet flats and flip-flops often lack adequate arch support, increasing the strain on the foot's arch.
High heels: High-heeled shoes shift body weight naturally onto the balls of the feet, increasing pressure and the risk of metatarsalgia, a condition where the ball of the foot is painful and inflamed.
Rigid shoes: Footwear with stiff soles can reduce the foot's natural flexibility, leading to discomfort and further foot issues.
Narrow shoes: Shoes with a narrow toe box can compress the foot, leading to discomfort and exacerbating arch issues. Ensuring that footwear has a spacious toe area can help maintain foot health.
Minimalist shoes: While designed to mimic barefoot running, minimalist shoes often lack the necessary support for individuals with arch issues, potentially leading to increased strain and pain.
Are there other ways to improve arch support?
Beyond wearing proper footwear, experts recommend various methods to enhance arch support and maintain healthy feet. Here's what they suggest:
Orthotics and insoles: Custom or over-the-counter orthotic inserts can provide additional arch support and cushioning. Hermann explains that they "can help distribute pressure more evenly across your feet, reducing strain on the arches."
Strengthening exercises: According to Shah, flat-footed individuals can benefit from exercises such as foot doming. She explains, "You keep your feet flat on the floor and raise the arch as much as possible, rolling the weight of your foot to the outside while keeping your heel and toes on the ground." She also suggests heel raises and heel walking to help strengthen flatfeet, relieving discomfort and improving overall foot health.
Stretching and flexibility: Hermann supports stretching for flexibility in the muscles and tendons of the feet and ankles. He adds that it's crucial for "reducing stiffness and preventing injuries."
Rest and recovery: Avoiding overuse is another essential step, as Hermann points out: "Overuse and repetitive stress can weaken the muscles and tissues in the feet, leading to arch collapse and other foot problems. Avoid activities that place excessive strain on the feet, and be sure to give your feet adequate rest and recovery time between workouts or activities."
Other shoes we tested
Saucony Tempus 2: This shoe provides high-quality arch support (and greater stability than the Hoka Bondi 8 or Brooks Hyperion Max 2), but we preferred the Hyperion Max 2 as a neutral running shoe appropriate for most foot types and the Saucony Hurricane 24 as a cushioned walking shoe. The Hoka Bondi 8 also provided the best of both worlds, to claim the top overall spot. If you're looking for a good running shoe with arch support and greater stability, this just might be a good choice.
Brooks Ghost 16: The Brooks Ghost 16 is a popular running shoe, and our tester loved the breathable uppers, but didn't find the arch support to be as effective as the other sneakers she tested.
Brooks Adrenaline GTS: The Brooks Adrenaline GTS is another solid option with greater support than the Bondi 8 or Hyperion Max 2 (and may be worth considering if you need more arch support for overpronation while running), but like the Saucony Tempus, it just didn't quite measure up to the sneakers that made the list.
Birkenstock Kyoto: Our tester wanted to love these slide-style sandals, but she felt she could never quite get the right fit, even with the adjustable uppers.
Aerothotic Fallon: While our tester admitted that these flip-flop-style sandals were cute and fit well, providing good overall arch support, she found they were stiffer than the other brands she tried and they didn't conform to her foot over time.
Birkenstock Boston: Like the Birkenstock Kyotos, our tester could never quite get the right fit with these mule-style slip-on shoes. The buckle adjustment always felt a bit too tight or too loose, and the wide toe box was a little too wide for her liking.
Meet our experts
Rob Hermann, Registered Specialist Podiatric Foot and Ankle Surgeon, Adelaide, Australia
Palak Shah, PT, OCS, MLC, Co-Founder, Head of Clinical Services at Luna
Brent Wells, DC and founder of Better Health Alaska, Anchorage, Alaska
Our health content is for informational purposes only and is not intended as professional medical advice. Consult a medical professional on questions about your health.
