What to Buy Fitness Gear The 18 Best Walking Shoes for High Arches of 2023 If you have high arches, these shoes will have you walking in comfort—and style. By April Benshosan April Benshosan April Benshosan is a writer, editor, and content strategist covering health, fitness, beauty, and wellness. She graduated with a Master's in Publishing, and her dedication to responsible health journalism has led her to spearhead the nutrition vertical at a major publication before taking on freelancing full-time. health's editorial guidelines Updated on August 23, 2023 Medically reviewed by Adam H. Kaplan, DPM Medically reviewed by Adam H. Kaplan, DPM Adam H. Kaplan, DPM, is a podiatrist and attending physician practicing at Robert Wood Johnson Barnabas Health and Roosevelt Care Center. learn more Fact checked by Richard Scherr Fact checked by Richard Scherr Rich Scherr is an updates strategist and fact checker for Dotdash Meredith brands, including Health and Verywell. He is a seasoned financial and technology journalist who served as editor-in-chief of the Potomac Tech Wire for nearly two decades, and is a regular contributor to the sports pages of The Baltimore Sun. He has also been a news editor for America Online and has contributed to the Associated Press and The Washington Post. health's fact checking process In This Article Expand Jump to a Section Our top picks Reviews How We Selected What to Know What to Look for Your Questions, Answered Who We Are We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Learn more. Health / Kristin Kempa If you have high arches, you know how difficult it can be to find a quality walking shoe that actually supports your feet. But finding shoes with support for your arches is crucial. People with high arches are more prone to ankle injuries and foot pain, as well as complications like plantar fasciitis, hairline fractures, inflammation in the ball of the foot, hammertoes, and claw toes. When you have high arches, you might have a hard time fitting into regular shoes, says Miguel Cunha, DPM, a podiatrist and founder of Gotham Footcare in New York City. This is because less of your foot makes contact with the ground when walking or running, which in turn produces less shock absorption. To lower your risk of foot-related problems, Dr. Cunha recommends shopping for a shoe that has a roomy toe box, generous ankle support, and a flexible midfoot with ample cushion for shock absorption. We interviewed experts to get their recommendations for the best shoes for high arches. Then we put each pair to the test for three weeks, wearing them for hours at a time and taking note of how each one stacked up in terms of cushioning, material, support, and price. We also had a podiatrist from our Medical Expert Board review this article for medical and scientific accuracy. Our Top Picks Best Overall: Adidas Ultraboost Light Running Shoe at Amazon Jump to Review Best Overall Runner-Up: Kizik Women's Roamer Hands-Free Shoe at Nordstrom Jump to Review Best Budget: Skechers Gowalk Arch Fit Sneakers at Amazon Jump to Review Best Unisex: New Balance 574 at Amazon Jump to Review Best All Day: lululemon Blissfeel Running Shoe at Lululemon Jump to Review Best for Wide Feet: Mizuno Wave Rider 26 Running Shoe at Amazon Jump to Review Best for Underpronation: New Balance Fresh Foam X 880v13 at Amazon Jump to Review Best for Plantar Fasciitis: Asics Gel-Nimbus 25 at Amazon Jump to Review Best for IT Band Syndrome: Hoka Arahi at Zappos Jump to Review Best for Support: Hoka One One Clifton 9 at Zappos Jump to Review Best Overall Adidas Ultraboost Light Women's Running Shoe 4.9 Amazon View On Amazon View On Zappos View On Nordstrom Why We Like It The lightweight, high-quality materials make these shoes dependable for daily, long-term use. It's Worth Noting Some colors might show dirt easily. After wearing the Adidas Ultraboost Light running shoes for three or four days per week and clocking 30-40 hours, we knew they were our best overall pick, hands down. The whisper-light fabric is breathable and lightweight, with plenty of stretch for movement, and the quality bottoms and added shock support helped us feel rock-solid on diverse terrain. These shoes were incredibly comfortable, even for one of our editors who has a troublesome bunion that is easily aggravated. We especially loved the slight lift in the heel, which made us feel like we were walking on air. At first sight, we worried that the lightweight materials might not hold up to daily use, but after a month of regular use, the shoes have held up beautifully. Our only complaint is that the color we tried (neon orange) did show dirt easily, so choose a color that hides dirt if you plan to wear them on trails or other potentially messy surfaces. Price at time of publication: $190 Product Details: Material: Rubber sole, mesh lining, 50% recycled plastic upperCushioning: MediumClosure type: Lace-upSize Range: 4-18 M; 5-12 W Health / Sarah Felbin Health / Sarah Felbin Best Overall Runner-Up Kizik Women's Roamer Hands-Free Shoe 4.8 Kizik View On Nordstrom View On Kizik.com Why We Like It The amazing fit and versatile, hands-free design makes these shoes an everyday favorite. It's Worth Noting They might be on the narrow side if you have wide feet. We wore these shoes for 20-minute walks each day for three weeks, as well as for hikes, errands, and light exercise, and they did not disappoint. We were immediately impressed with the supportive soles, as well as the true-to-size fit and cushioned heel. One of our editors, who has bunions on both of her feet, noted that the shoes are an excellent option for anyone else who has this common condition. The shoes are truly hands-free, and we loved how easy it was to slip them on our feet and walk out the door. The roomy toe box helped our feet feel free and unrestricted, while the comfy footbed provided just the right balance of cushioning and support. However, if you like a more flexible sole, you might find them a bit stiff. We wouldn't recommend these shoes for vigorous exercise, but for walking, running errands, light hiking, and other low-intensity activities, they're stylish shoes that fit just right. Just keep in mind that the regular sizes are on the narrow side in terms of fit, so be sure to order a wide if your feet are on the wider side. Price at time of publication: $149 Product Details: Material: Knit upper, foam outsoleCushioning: ModerateClosure type: Lace-upSize Range: 6-13 W; 4.5-15 M Health / Cecily McAndrews Health / Cecily McAndrews Best Budget Skechers Gowalk Arch Fit Sneakers Amazon View On Amazon View On Peltzshoes.com View On Skechers.com Why We Like It For under $100, you can count on these slip-on sneakers to offer ample arch support, even on long walks. It’s Worth Noting The color options are limited, and these sneakers don't provide as much cushioning as other options on this list. These budget-friendly slip-ons feature a breathable mesh material, which will keep your feet cool on long walks. Their removable insole helps with shock absorption, and the comfortably cushioned midsole offers solid arch support. These sneakers get major bonus points for being completely machine washable, so you won't even have to think twice about getting the all-white pair. While they don't come in many colorways, the styles that are offered are neutral enough to fit most wardrobes, and they can easily be dressed up or down. Plus, the pull-on style makes these super easy to put on and take off, especially for folks with limited mobility. Overall, the Skechers Go Walk Arch Fit are solid walking shoes—and for under $100, you can't go wrong. Price at time of publication: $90 Product Details: Material: Mesh knitCushioning: Moderate Closure type: Slip-onSize Range: 7 – 13 M; 5 – 11 W Health / Madison Yauger Health / Madison Yauger Best Unisex New Balance Unisex 574 Sneaker New Balance View On Amazon View On Newbalance.com Why We Like It They're affordable sneakers that come in many neutral color combos. It’s Worth Noting The suede material isn't stain resistant and can be hard to clean, so you might want to consider buying a darker-colored sneaker. Dr. Cunha says he often recommends these classic New Balance sneakers for their molded midsoles, which provide excellent arch support. These shoes are designed to support the plantar fascia and provide superior comfort. They boast foam cushioning in the heel, which is important because people with high arches are at a higher risk of heel inflammation and pain. We love the padding around the ankles and in the tongue, plush cushioning on the midsole, and an everyday silhouette that works well with basically everything in your closet. You can choose from multiple color combos, and the 574 line offers a vast range of sizes. Price at time of publication: $85 Product Details: Material: Suede and mesh upperCushioning: ModerateClosure type: Lace-upSize Range: 5.5-14 M; 7-15.5 W Best All Day lululemon Blissfeel Running Shoe 4.5 lululemon View On Lululemon Why We Like It The stylish design makes these shoes a good pick for all-day wear, whether you're running errands or doing a light workout. It’s Worth Noting They aren't available in men's sizes. Although the lululemon Blissfeel shoes are advertised as running shoes, we thought they were best for walking, light exercise, and everyday use. We loved that the shoes were easy to pair with a variety of outfits, including athletic, casual, and athleisure wear. The shoes helped us feel light on our feet due to the seamless uppers, but the ample cushioning and firm soles added support and springiness to our step. The shoes are advertised as running shoes, and one of our editors thought they were ideal for runs that are less than four miles. The shoes stay in place well, and we didn't experience any blisters or other unpleasant symptoms while wearing them. Keep in mind, they might not be the best choice for long-distance runs, since the lightweight design won't provide enough arch support. They're also only available in women's sizes. Price at time of publication: $148 Product Details: Material: Foam cushioningCushioning: ModerateClosure type: Lace-upSize Range: 5-12 W Best for Wide Feet Mizuno Wave Rider 26 Running Shoe Amazon View On Amazon View On Mizunousa.com View On Mizunousa.com Why We Like It The spacious toe box and removable insole make these shoes extra-comfortable for people with wide feet. It’s Worth Noting The styles and colors are limited. These Mizuno sneakers are recommended by Dr. Cunha for people with wide feet, thanks to their spacious toe box. "It allows your toes to move freely with no restrictions, therefore minimizing discomfort placed on the arch of the foot," Dr. Cunha says. Plus, they come with removable insoles, which you can easily pop out to make your sneaker even more spacious. These sneakers have a cushioned midsole for extra arch support, and the Mizuno Wave plate technology promises stability and comfort by dispersing the energy from foot-to-floor impact. You can rest assured that this style offers proper shock absorption and stability for optimal performance and safety. As a bonus, the mesh material promises a breathable, sock-like fit. Price at time of publication: $140 Product Details: Material: MeshCushioning: Moderate to plushClosure type: Lace-up Size Range: 7–16 M; 6–12 W Best for Underpronation New Balance Fresh Foam X 880v13 4.9 Dick's Sporting Goods View On Amazon View On Zappos View On Dick's Why We Like It They're flexible yet supportive sneakers that provide stability for supinators. It’s Worth Noting These sneakers are simple and supportive but don't necessarily come with any special features. Supination, or when the foot rolls inward after landing, can be caused by high arches and may contribute to foot pain and a higher risk of injury, per a 2019 study in Scientific Reports. Supinators need shoes with soft, flexible midsoles to allow for more foot motion, Dr. Cunha says. The New Balance Fresh Foams fit the bill with their plush and supportive midsole, as well as their rubber outsole that protects your feet during landing. Supinators should also avoid rigid shoes because they can push the foot further to the outside, which may result in injury, Dr. Cunha says. Another feature to avoid? Overly bouncy cushioning, as this could exacerbate the lateral movement of the foot, making it less stable. These New Balance sneakers strike the perfect balance, offering support and comfort simultaneously. Price at time of publication: $140 Product Details: Material: Mesh upperCushioning: ModerateClosure type: Lace-upSize Range: 7–16 M; 5–13 W Best for Plantar Fasciitis Asics Women's Gel-Nimbus 25 4.8 Amazon View On Amazon View On Zappos View On Nordstrom Why We Like It The gel cushioning helped us maintain a healthy gait pattern. It’s Worth Noting We got a few blisters during the testing period. If you struggle with plantar fasciitis, you know how important it is to find a shoe that provides adequate support and cushioning, which is exactly what you'll find in the Asics Gel-Nimbus 25. We especially appreciated the comfort and cushion provided by the gel cushioning. We found wearing these shoes helped us maintain a healthy gait pattern while walking long distances, which is another key to keeping plantar fasciitis at bay. We loved the knit tongue and high-quality heel tab, which made the shoes a breeze to slip on and off without tying and re-tying them. They're available in a variety of cute color designs, and we got lots of compliments while wearing them. We did get a few blisters early on in the testing period but found that pairing the shoes with a normal pair of socks (not too heavy or lightweight) was key to preventing the issue from recurring. Price at time of publication: $160 Product Details: Material: Knit upper, rubber sole, gel cushioningCushioning: LightClosure type: Lace-upSize Range: 5-12 W; 7-15 M Best for IT Band Syndrome Hoka Arahi Zappos View On Zappos View On Nordstrom View On Campsaver.com Why We Like It The stabilizing cushion provides ankle and knee support, and the design is sleek and modern. It’s Worth Noting The regular sizing tends to run a bit narrow, so if you have wider feet or if you like your sneakers on the roomy side, opt for the wide width. Iliotibial band (IT) syndrome is often caused by overpronation, which leads to internal rotation of the knee and causes the arches to cave in. That's why Dr. Cunha recommends looking for a shoe with a dense supportive arch to help provide reinforcement and keep the arches from collapsing. "The Hoka Arahi are designed with a firm J-frame midsole that runs along the inner side of the shoe and wraps around the ankle to provide maximum support and minimize overpronation," Dr. Cunha says. Light yet stable, Hoka Arahi shoes offer balanced cushioning. The sneakers are fairly stiff and flex only near the toe area, which is exactly what you need to support your arches with IT band syndrome. The convenient pull tab makes them easy to get on, and the mesh material allows for plenty of breathability. Bonus: They've earned the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA) Seal of Acceptance, which means that podiatrists have confirmed that these sneakers promote foot health. Price at time of publication: $140 Product Details: Material: MeshCushioning: Moderate to plushClosure type: Lace-upSize Range: 7–15 M; 5–12 W Best for Support Hoka One One Clifton 9 Hoka View On Zappos View On Nordstrom View On Dick's Why We Like It These Hoka sneakers strike the perfect balance between cushion and stability. It’s Worth Noting You might need more cushioning if you are a long-distance runner. Topping Dr. Cunha's list of favorite high arches sneakers for their unmatched support, Hoka Clifton 9 sneakers have a full-compression foam midsole that delivers the perfect level of cushioning during your walks. They also have a well-cushioned footbed and anatomical arch support to hold up the arch and prevent it from collapsing, which in turn minimizes fatigue and pain, Dr. Cunha says. This style also keeps your foot stable and allows it to adapt to its natural placement, providing a more organic transition from heel strike through toe-off. Plus, the lightweight, breathable knit fabric ensures your foot stays secure without being too restrictive. Whether you're walking around a new city or jogging around the neighborhood, you can count on these Hoka shoes to keep your feet feeling supported and stable. If you run long distances, however, opt for shoes with even more cushioning to minimize impact. Price at time of publication: $145 Product Details: Material: KnitCushioning: Moderate to plushClosure type: Lace-upSize Range: 7–16 M; 5–12 W Best Sustainable Brooks Ghost 15 Women's Road-Running Shoes 4.8 Brooks View On Amazon View On Zappos View On Zappos Why We Like It They're carbon-neutral sneakers that provide ample heel and ankle support for people with high arches. It’s Worth Noting Some may find that the laces come untied easily while walking or running. The Brooks Ghost 15 sneaker is proudly carbon-neutral. Brooks makes the shoes with recycled materials (one pair saves about 6.5 plastic bottles from landfills). The brand also uses low-impact dyeing processes and sources materials from factories that use renewable energy. The Ghost 15's carbon emissions clock in at 9.27 kg CO₂eq (or 20.4 pounds), which is 6% less than that of the Ghost 14. To put that into perspective, the average sneaker produces about 30 pounds of carbon dioxide emissions. Brooks sneakers are just as great for your feet as they are for the planet. If you're a supinator with high arches, these shoes are perfect because they have a soft, flexible midsole with superior cushioning for shock absorption, Dr. Cunha says. The sneakers provide proper support to the heel, preventing ankle sprains whether you are walking or running. The heels of the shoes are also a little wider on the bottom to add stability and allow for a smoother landing to toe-off transition, he adds. Price at time of publication: $140 Product Details: Material: Recycled materialCushioning: ModerateClosure type: Lace-upSize Range: 7–15 M; 5–13 W Best for Long Distances Merrell Moab 2 Ventilator Amazon View On Amazon View On Dick's View On Ems.com Why We Like It The shoes are super durable and feature a supportive foam midsole and extra heel cushioning for shock absorption. It’s Worth Noting They're a bit on the bulkier side. These shoes from Merrell are strong enough for walking long distances (hello, hikes) and keep your feet comfortable and supported. The lightweight foam midsole offers stability and comfort, while the outsole's all-around grip ensures your feet stay stable with proper traction. What's more, these sneakers feature comfortable cushioning around the heel to absorb shock, keeping your feet stable. You can count on these Merrells to last you a long time. The leather and mesh material promises durability and breathability, making these perfect for both everyday wear and adventures on the trail. If you are strapping these on for a hike, know that the sneakers' tongues are specially designed to keep out debris, so you won't have to worry about rogue pebbles making their way under your arches. Price at time of publication: $110 Product Details: Material: Leather and meshCushioning: ModerateClosure type: Lace-upSize Range: 8.5–14 M; 5–11 W Best Cushioning On Cloud 5 Women's Running Shoe 4.9 Nordstrom View On Nordstrom View On Backcountry.com View On Dick's Why We Like It The mesh outer layer is breathable and flexible, with just the right amount of foam cushioning on the insole. It’s Worth Noting They aren't waterproof. On Cloud 5 shoes are becoming more and more popular, and for good reason. Our testing proved these shoes to be durable, comfortable, and supportive for high arches. One of our editors who has been diagnosed with plantar fasciitis wore them on a ten-hour flight and experienced no pain or discomfort. He also noted that his feet are less inflamed since he started wearing the shoes on a daily basis. The shoe's main feature is the foam cushioning, which is characteristic of most of the brand's selections. The cushioning is designed to adapt to your unique movements, allowing for a customized fit that minimizes shock and provides support for high arches. The breathable mesh outers are comfortable and flexible, although you might need a thick pair of socks if you plan to wear the shoes in colder weather. We had virtually no complaints about these shoes. They are versatile when it comes to style and also easy to spot clean. Although the model we tried wouldn't be best for wet conditions, there is a waterproof version. Just keep in mind if you have very high arches, you might need to add an insole for some extra support. Price at time of publication: $140 Product Details: Material: Mesh outer; foam cushioningCushioning: ModerateClosure type: Slip-on or laces included for lace-upSize Range: 7-14 M; 5-11 W Best Slip-On Rothy's The Original Slip On Sneaker Rothyâs View On Rothys.com Why We Like It These stylish slip-ons are easy to put on and take off and are made with recycled water bottles to reduce plastic waste. It’s Worth Noting These shoes don't stretch much, so make sure to pick your perfect size. They also don't come in men's sizes. Recommended by Dr. Cunha, these shoes have a roomy toe box and supportive insoles that are made using 100% recycled plastic from water bottles. Their no-fuss, slip-on style makes them super easy to put on and take off, which also means you won't have to worry about laces coming undone during your walk. Another bonus: You won't have to break these in, thanks to their instantly comfortable, seamless construction. Plus, like all Rothy's shoes, the Original Slip-On Sneaker is machine-washable. Just make sure to slip out the insoles and midsoles and let the shoes air dry. Note that these don't come in standard men's sizes, so if you're looking for a larger slip-on sneaker, try the Skechers Go Walk Arch Fit. Price at time of publication: $119 Product Details: Material: Recycled plastic Cushioning: MinimalClosure type: Slip-onSize Range: 5-13 W Best for Mild Arch Support Vionic Captivate Sneaker 4.6 Vionic View On Amazon View On Vionicshoes.com Why We Like It The neutral support is perfect for anyone who needs just a touch of added arch reinforcement. It's Worth Noting There isn't a lot of cushioning in the arch area. Vionic Captivate shoes are designed with foot health in mind. These APMA-approved sneakers feature a podiatrist-designed orthotic, as well as a lightweight mesh upper and a cushioned outsole. They're perfect for anyone who prefers a stiffer sole and extra stability for their arches. We loved that these shoes fit perfectly right out of the box, with a roomy toe box and no blisters or chafing during the break-in period. The fit is on the tighter side, due to the unique inner sock lining that hugs your foot like a glove. The arch support felt a bit awkward at first, but Vionic notes that this is normal, since the shoes are designed to mold to your feet over the first couple of weeks. They recommend wearing the shoes for a few hours at a time the first few days in order to give your feet time to adjust. Although we felt very supported in these shoes thanks to the firm soles, there isn't a lot of cushioning in the arch area. If you like a shoe with more plush arch support cushioning, consider trying Hoka Clifton 9s or Mizuno Wave Rider 26s. Vionic Captivates are only available in women's sizes. Price at time of publication: $150 Product Details: Material: Rubber sole, synthetic knit upperCushioning: LightClosure type: Lace-upSize Range: 5-12 W Best Lightweight Altra Women's Lone Peak 7 Trail Running Shoe 4.7 Amazon View On Amazon View On Zappos View On Altrarunning.com Why We Like It The zero-drop heel and lightweight materials feel natural but supportive. It's Worth Noting There isn't much padding in these shoes. Designed for trail running, the Altra Lone Peak 7 is sure to provide adequate support on varied terrains. The soles are thin and flexible without a lot of cushioning, but the ridges on the bottom provide excellent traction for long hikes or trail runs. We tested them on grass, concrete, and turf and never felt unstable. They have a light, airy feel, and our feet never overheated or felt too sweaty while we were wearing them. The zero-drop heel isn't for everyone, and you won't get the same springiness you would in a shoe with a larger drop. But if you prefer a shoe with a more flexible, natural feel and also need a little extra arch support, you'll love these. There isn't much cushioning in the heel or forefoot area, but we loved the extra padding right around our arches. Price at time of publication: $150 Product Details: Material: Rubber sole, foam midsole, mesh upperCushioning: ModerateClosure type: Lace-upSize Range: 5.5-12 W, 7-16 M Best Sandal Vionic Reyna Flatform Sandal 4.5 Vionic View On Amazon View On Zappos View On Nordstrom Why We Like It The sandals stay on your feet and provide great stability. It's Worth Noting The arch support is pretty high, so they're not for people with flat feet. Right out of the box, these shoes were well-fitting and super cute. The leather straps are soft and felt great on our skin, and the cushioned soles provide all-day comfort. Like most platform shoes, the sandals are a bit on the heavy side, but they never felt too burdensome during our testing period. The soles are quite firm, and the arches are slightly elevated for added support. We tested these sandals on a variety of surfaces and found that the grippy sole provided great stability. The sandals did not require any break-in period and were comfortable from the start. The only thing we noted is that the arch support is pretty pronounced, so they're definitely not for people with flat feet or even average arches. Price at time of publication: $130 Product Details: Material: Leather, suedeCushioning: ModerateClosure type: BuckleSize Range: 5-11 W Most Adjustable Orthofeet Kita Hands-Free Women's Athletic Sneakers 4.8 Orthofeet View On Orthofeet.com Why We Like It The insoles and arch boosters that come with the shoes make it easy to find the perfect fit for any foot type. It's Worth Noting They might be on the hot side if your feet tend to get overheated or sweat easily. Premium orthotic insoles and an additional arch booster for added support make the Kita Hands-Free sneakers from Orthofeet our most adjustable selection. They're also easy to get on and off, and we found we could slip our feet right in without tying or adjusting them during our testing period. One of our editors who has plantar fasciitis found these shoes offered incredible pain relief and shock absorption, even after walking long distances in the shoes. The shoes also have a wide toe box, allowing plenty of freedom without being too roomy. They have a firm sole, but the insoles provide just the right amount of cushioning to give you that "walking on air" feeling. We could feel and see the quality of the shoes from the moment we took them out of the box, and both qualities held up after weeks of use. We did find they got a bit warm on long walks, so keep that in mind if your feet tend to sweat a lot. They're also only available in women's sizes. Price at time of publication: $155 Product Details: Material: Foam cushion, knit fabric upperCushioning: Moderate to plushClosure type: Lace-upSize Range: 5-12 W How We Tested the Best Shoes for High Arches To find the best shoes for high arches, we asked podiatrists for their top picks. We also interviewed a running coach and physical therapist assistant for insight on what shoppers with high arches should look for in a quality walking shoe. We selected these shoes based on expert recommendations, keeping in mind a wide range of styles, sizes, and budgets. We also asked the experts for their top sneaker picks for specific conditions, including plantar fasciitis, IT band syndrome, and supination/under-pronation. The experts we spoke to include: Dr. Diana Valencia, DPM, a podiatric surgeon at NYC Foot and Ankle Center. Miguel Cunha, DPM, a Podiatric Surgery Specialist and founder of Gotham Footcare in Manhattan. Marion Yau, BSc, a podiatrist and nail surgery expert based in London. Alison Staples, an RRCA-certified long-distance run coach and physical therapy assistant. Once we made our selections, we began our testing process to narrow down the list. Our team of editors wore each pair of shoes for extended periods of time. They took note of how each pair performed, scoring each pair on a scale of one to five for fit, quality, value, arch support, stability, responsiveness, and cushioning. At the end of the testing period, we averaged the scores to find our top 18 selections. We also included shoes that were personally recommended by the experts we interviewed. What to Know About Walking Shoes How Walking Shoes Should Fit In general, your walking shoes should feel comfortable—that is, comfortable enough for you to look forward to lacing them on. Dr. Cunha says that if the arch feels too high, you shouldn't wear the shoes. He also notes that improperly fitting shoes are more likely to be designed with no arch than with high arches. A Note on Men and Women's Sizing Shoe brands often market their shoes according to gender because the sizes for men and women differ. Men's shoe sizes tend to be wider and longer than women's. However, you can choose any style or color you want, regardless of the gender the shoe is marketed for—just make sure your shoes fit well and provide the support your arches need. When in doubt, work with your podiatrist or a shoe-fitting specialist, and make sure to try on many different brands and styles to find the best fit. What to Look for in Shoes With High Arches High arches don't provide enough shock absorption on their own, so you should look for walking shoes with soft, flexible midsoles and increased sole and cushioning, Dr. Cunha says. These types of shoes will have extra rubber incorporated into the sole compared to other walking shoes, which translates to a smoother and bouncier gait. Soft, flexible midsoles are great because they allow for more foot motion. Shoes should have a rigid shank (in other words, you shouldn't be able to bend them in half), but Dr. Cunha recommends steering clear of overly rigid shoes as they can push the foot to the outside, which may result in injury. You’ll also want to avoid overly bouncy cushioing because it won't provide enough stability. Another tip: Look for padding around the ankle for extra foot support as well as a spacious toe box so the toes move freely, Staples says. The Best Materials for Walking Shoes You'll notice that the majority of the walking shoes on this list are mesh, which is usually made of polyester. According to Staples, polyester is the best material for walking shoes because it's flexible, soft, and doesn’t easily absorb moisture. Rayon is also a good option because it provides shoe breathability. Last but not least, lycra is another great material for walking shoes because it's strong, flexible, and lightweight, Staples says. How Much You Can Expect to Pay for Walking Shoes The price of walking shoes usually depends on the brand and features of the shoe. The walking shoes on this list range from $90 to $160, with Skechers being the most budget-friendly and Mephisto being the priciest. Your Questions, Answered What are the benefits of shoes made for high arches? Wearing a shoe with high arch support—or using an orthotic to support your arches—helps alleviate pressure by distributing pressure through the foot. Staples says shoes with arch support are also designed to absorb shock, sweat, and impact. Walking shoes made for high arches prioritize shock absorption, so they'll have flexible midsoles with extra cushioning. People with high arches need extra shock absorption because less of their foot hits the ground when they walk or run, so a cushioned shoe can help prevent foot-related injuries, Dr. Cunha says. People with high arches are more prone to dealing with arch inflexibility or stiffness, ankle pain, a tight Achilles tendon, discomfort in the ball and heel, or painful corns and calluses. Why should you consider your arches when buying walking shoes? Simply put, your arches dictate how much support your shoe should provide. Wearing unsupportive shoes may lead to problems such as lowered performance, discomfort such as in plantar fasciitis and runner’s knee, injuries, and even early-onset arthritis, Dr. Cunha says. "On the other hand (or other foot, pun intended), shoes designed to compensate for the impact of your feet can help prevent injuries and improve structural alignment and performance," he says. To determine your foot type, look at the soles of a pair of worn-in shoes. The wear patterns illustrate where you tend to accumulate pressure when you walk, and certain foot types are more prone to specific types of foot discomfort and foot-related injuries. For example, people who have outer knee pain or frequent ankle sprains tend to be supinators, Dr. Cunha says, since their feet roll outward. People who pronate, or whose feet roll inward, are likely to have plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendonitis, shin splints, or inner knee pain. There are three wear patterns to look for in your shoes: Supinator pattern: If your shoe is worn out in the top outer edge, then you’re a supinator (also known as an underpronator). This foot type needs cushioning sneakers for shock absorption, Dr. Cunha says.Neutral pattern: If your shoes are evenly worn, then you are neutral and have an average gait with equal weight distribution across the foot. This foot type needs moderate-stability sneakers, which offer a balance of cushioning and support. Pronator pattern: If you notice that your shoes have the top inner edge worn, then you’re a pronator. This foot type needs motion-control or high-stability sneakers to keep your feet better aligned with your legs, Dr. Cunha says. How long do walking shoes last? Your shoes' shelf life depends on how often you wear them. You might need to replace your walking shoes every three months if you wear them every day, or until excessive wearing is noted on the tread of the shoe, Staples says. Who We Are April Benshosan is a health journalist and editor who's interviewed countless doctors and other medical professionals throughout her career. Her work highlights her passion for arming people with the information they need to make informed decisions about their health. Was this page helpful? Thanks for your feedback! Tell us why! Other Submit 4 Sources Health.com uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read our editorial process to learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy. 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