19 best shoes for arch support, according to podiatrists and editors
Arch-supportive sandals: Chaco Women's Aura Z/1 Adjustable Strap Classic Sandals
Running sneakers: Asics Women's Gel-Kayano 31
APMA-accepted sneakers: Hoka Men's Arahi 7
Sneakers with forefoot rockers: On Men's Cloudmonster
Editor-loved sandals: Vionic Women's Solana Strappy Platform Sandals Whether you inherited your parents' flat feet or their high arches, finding comfort should always be a priority when shopping for shoes, especially if you want to avoid bigger foot issues and expensive medical bills down the line. That's why selecting shoes that offer the right amount of support for your arch type — low, neutral or high — is crucial for the health of your feet. Since no two people are the same, the best shoes for arch support will vary by person, but the most supportive shoes should have sturdy soles and firm heel counters.
As someone with flat feet, I know how challenging it can be to find shoes that are attractive and supportive, which is why I consulted several podiatrists for their insights on the best shoes for arch support. I also tapped our team of editors for their favorite supportive picks.
Asics Women's GEL-Kayano 31
Dr. Mitzi Williams, a pediatric foot and ankle surgeon at Paley Orthopedic and Spine Institute, recommends the GEL-Kayano 31 sneakers, which are designed for runners with low or neutral arches. She appreciates that their soles help provide adaptive stability, and the 10-millimeter heel drop helps relieve tension in the Achilles tendon. They feature breathable mesh uppers and reflective detailing to improve visibility during your late-night or early morning workouts.
Asics Men's GEL-Kayano 31
Updates writer Ellen McAlpine found these cushioned sneakers to be some of the best for marathon training. They come in several colors and have comfy sock liners and grippy outsoles. They also have pull tabs that make putting them on and taking them off easy. Oboz Women's Katabatic LT Low Hiking Shoes
Available in three colors — Sparrow, Alpine Lake and Steelhead — the Katabatic LT Lows are among the brand's most popular hiking shoes. They have wider toe boxes to prevent toe cramping and heel cups that closely hug your feet. 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
'Oboz has the most arch support of any shoe brand I tried,' said CNN Underscored outdoors, sustainable living and pets editor Kai Burkhardt. 'The insoles that come with the shoes have a higher arch for more support, and they feel plush and comfortable for all-day wear.' These shoes are some of his favorites from the brand because they're so lightweight and versatile. Brooks Women's Adrenaline GTS 24 Running Shoes
Dr. Samantha Landau, a foot and ankle specialist and assistant professor at the Touro University New York College of Podiatric Medicine, recommends these lace-up sneakers, which are designed for walking and road running. Suitable for those with high or neutral arches, they can also work for flat feet with orthotics, Landau said. Managing editor Rachel Quigley owns a pair of these running shoes and loves that they support her high arches and wide feet.
Brooks Men's Adrenaline GTS 24 Running Shoes
These sneakers, which have flexible, breathable uppers, feature soft cushioning for comfortable running sessions. If you're looking for a model that's suitable for exercising in less-than-ideal weather, Brooks has the Adrenaline GTS 24 Weatherized, which offers wet and dry traction. Vionic Women's 23Walk 2.0 Sneakers
According to CNN Underscored testing writer Michelle Rae Uy, these Vionic sneakers are some of the most supportive shoes she's worn. '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.
Vionic Men's 23Walk 2.0 Sneakers
These sneakers are crafted from a combination of breathable mesh uppers and leather or suede. They feature deep heel cups, generous cushioning and moisture-wicking liners to prevent sweaty feet and reduce friction. In our guide to the best walking shoes, Dr. Elizabeth Daughtry, a board-certified foot and ankle surgeon, recommended these sneakers. Hoka Women's Arahi 7 Running Shoes
The Hoka Arahi 7 sneakers feature extended heel pulls to make slipping them on easier, as well as plush tongues for added comfort. They also have the American Podiatric Medical Association's (APMA) seal of acceptance for promoting good foot health.
Hoka Men's Arahi 7 Running Shoes
If you're looking for supportive, moderately cushioned running shoes, these Hoka sneakers with mesh uppers are one of Williams' recommendations. They provide enough stability to limit overpronation (excessive inward rolling of your feet) without altering your gait (the way you walk) too much. Saucony Women's Hurricane 24 Running Shoes
Williams singles out the Saucony Hurricane 24 sneakers for their rigid soles and how shock absorbent they are. 'The material is energy returning, which means it gives energy back during use, which can be helpful for an individual who is more at risk of biomechanical reasons for early fatigue,' she said.
Saucony Men's Hurricane 24 Running Shoes
Made from breathable mesh uppers, these lace-up sneakers are best suited for those who need neutral support. They feature plush heels that cradle your feet and dual cushioning for added comfort with every step. In our guide for the most comfortable work shoes, podiatrist and foot surgeon Dr. Dana Brems recommends Saucony as a good brand for overpronation and underpronation. New Balance Women's Fresh Foam X Vongo v6
Several podiatrists recommended these sneakers in our guide to the best New Balance Shoes, including Daughtry, who thinks they're a solid option for those who want cushioning and stability.
New Balance Men's Fresh Foam X Vongo v6
These stability running shoes are another of Williams' picks. They feature extra-soft cushioning for all-day comfort and have the APMA seal of acceptance. In addition to coming in a standard width, they also come in larger widths, making them a bunion-friendly option. On Women's Cloudmonster Running Shoes
Looking for lightweight running sneakers? Williams recommends the Cloudmonster sneakers from On. Associate testing writer Gareen Puglia took these shoes for a spin while reviewing running sneakers for beginners and appreciates how sturdy and well cushioned they are. They're designed to support people with neutral arches, and they have a forefoot rocker design that helps propel you forward with each stride.
On Men's Cloudmonster Running Shoes
The Cloudmonsters feature breathable uppers, soft sock liners for extra comfort and ample cushioning to reduce muscle fatigue. We also love how fashion-forward these sneakers are.
New Balance Unisex Made in USA 990V6 Sneakers
If you're looking for a comfortable pair of shoes that you can wear casually or to the office, these supportive sneakers from New Balance have Landau's stamp of approval. They're a good fit for low and neutral arch types, and they come in several widths to accommodate different foot sizes. They also come in three neutral colors to complement various outfits.
Vionic Women's Walk Slim Giselle Sneakers
The latest addition to my summer shoe lineup, the Vionic Walk Slim Giselle Sneakers combine the classic look of Mary Janes with the comfort and walkability of sneakers. Shoes with arch support are a must for me since I have flat feet, and these offer enough support to keep my feet happy.
Salomon Gender Inclusive XT-6 Sneakers
'These Salomon sneakers offer unmatched traction and support, which is why I love wearing them for everything from walking the dog in Brooklyn to hiking in the Pacific Northwest,' CNN Underscored beauty and fashion editor Sophie Shaw said. 'They're one of the priciest sneakers I own, but you really feel the difference in quality and fit from the first wear.' In addition to having grippy outsoles that make them suitable for various terrain, these shoes also feature removable insoles that allow you to insert orthotics (shoe inserts), if needed. Hoka Women's Bondi 9 Running Shoes
In addition to featuring reflective details, these breathable running sneakers have 3D-molded collars. We love that they come in several eye-catching colors, like Frost and Pale Tangerine, for those who love a pop of color.
Hoka Men's Bondi 9 Running Shoes
Thanks to their supportive design, these Williams-approved sneakers are some of the best shoes for standing all day we've tested. They feature bouncy foam midsoles that make them comfortable to wear for daily commutes or runs and durable rubber outsoles to prevent slips and falls.
New Balance Unisex 530 Sneakers
Landau singles out these chic unisex sneakers, which are suitable for those 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 oversized sweatshirts for running errands. Asics Women's GEL Venture 10 Running Shoes
According to Landau, these sneakers are suitable for all foot types. The high-traction outsoles on these running shoes feature trail-specific patterns that make them a great pick for trail runners.
Asics Men's GEL Venture 10 Running Shoes
These shoes have accommodating mesh uppers and responsive cushioning in the midsoles that helps absorb impact.
Naot Women's Intact Sandals
I truly love how comfortable and stylish these women sandals are. Their latex and cork footbeds provide cushioning and arch support for my flat feet, while their sturdy block heels give me additional height. Chaco Women's Aura 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. 'This 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 Aura Z/1 Adjustable Strap Classic Sandals
For men looking for a supportive pair of sandals for the summer, these adjustable ones 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.
Vionic Women's Solana Strappy Platform Sandals
'I feel like when it comes to arch support, Vionic really knows their stuff,' Uy said. 'These fisherman-inspired sandals are just as comfortable and supportive as the best hiking sandals out there, and they're basically all I'm wearing this summer.' She likes that these platform-style shoes, available in black, tan, gold and silver, also keep her feet cool and blister-free. Chaco Women's Z/1 Rapid Pro Adjustable Strap Classic Sandals
Featuring quick-drying straps and buckles that allow you to adjust the fit, these sandals have durable footbeds and reinforced heel risers that help with stability. We love that they 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's 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.
Dr. Scholl's Original Sandals
When senior lifestyle editor Tamara Kraus saw that Carrie Bradshaw herself wore these comfortable sandals in the newest season of "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. Consider your arch type
Understanding your arch type is key to selecting shoes that offer the right amount of support, said Dr. Suzanne Fuchs, a board-certified podiatrist and founder of Luxe Podiatry. 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, sites like Asics do, which makes shopping for supportive shoes easier.
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 doing all the work but they 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, all of which help limit excess motion. She also recommends opting for shoes designed with forefoot rockers, as most people can benefit from them. 'A forefoot rocker is beneficial as this allows and helps facilitate forward motion,' Landau said. 'If the shoe helps 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 that should figure into your decision include the intended activity and the material. She recommends opting for shoes made from breathable materials, like mesh uppers and leather.
Consider low heel drop and cushioning
Certain features like heel-drop differentials (the difference in height between the heels and the forefeet) 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. According to the Foot, Ankle and Leg Vein Center, this is when the fat tissues in our feet begin to break down.
Pair with orthotics
According to Landau, the majority of people don't have perfect 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.'
The following FAQs have been answered by foot and ankle surgeon Dr. Brandon Haghverdian and pediatric foot and ankle surgeon Dr. Mitzi Williams, and include reporting by associate lifestyle editor Rachel Dennis.
Do arch support shoes work for someone with flat feet?
Do arch support shoes work for someone with flat feet?
Yes. As explained above, arch-supportive shoes help distribute weight, reduce strain on ligaments and provide stability for those with little to no arches.
Can arch-support shoes cause plantar fasciitis?
Can arch-support shoes cause plantar fasciitis?
'Arch support shoes and orthotics are actually a common and effective treatment for plantar fasciitis,' said Dr. Brandon Haghverdian, a foot and ankle surgeon at the Hoag Orthopedic Institute. '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.
What are the best arch-support running shoes?
What are the best arch-support running shoes?
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 Arahi 7 — supportive.
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. Mitzi Williams, pediatric foot and ankle surgeon at Paley Orthopedic and Spine Institute
CNN Underscored has a team of writers and editors who have many years of experience testing, researching and recommending products, and they ensure each article is carefully edited and products are properly vetted. We talk to top experts when relevant to make certain we are testing each product accurately, recommending only the best products and considering the pros and cons of each item.
For this article, associate lifestyle editor Rachel Dennis interviewed podiatrists who shared their tips for shopping for arch-supportive shoes and their recommendations. I also included two personal favorites for flat feet, one of which is a new pair I tested for this article.
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