If You Have High Arches, These Are the Comfiest Shoes for You (2024)

Labeled as “recovery footwear,” these casual shoes are engineered with both foam technology and footbed geometry that offer arch support and enhance foot mobility while also minimizing the impact on problem feet, knees, and the lower back. In fact, compared to competitors’ shoes, the patented insole on this pair have been shown to reduce energy exertion in the ankles by up to 47%. Plus, these shoes are machine washable and water resistant.

“Calling all RNs: These are the most comfortable shoe/sneakers I’ve ever worn for a 12-hour shift,” said one Amazon shopper. “If you have a high arch, you will love these.”

These sneakers have an ergonomically-designed rubber sole that makes walking for daily activities comfortable, states Dr. Sutera. “The innovative biomechanics of three-zone comfort provides stability with a deep heel cup, forefoot cushioning, and arch support in the midsole,” she adds.

Reviewers love them too, with hundreds awarding the shoes a five-star rating on Amazon. “If you have high arches buy these!” said one.

Whether you’re into running, cross training, or sweating it out at the gym, this shoe offers stability and support along with balanced, soft cushioning thanks to an updated midsole. Plus, this sneaker is a certified PDAC (Pricing, Data Analysis, and Coding) A5500 Diabetic shoe and has been granted the APMA (American Podiatric Medical Association) Seal of Acceptance.

“This shoe gives me more support in my arch and has decreased my pain,” said an Amazon reviewer. “I use them both as workout shoes and everyday work shoes (I work as an occupational therapist in a hospital) and my feet feel great.”

The three-zone comfort technology, which hugs the foot’s natural curves and enhances stability, is a standout feature in this lightweight, slip-on supportive, cushioned sneaker, explains Dr. Sutera. “Also, these shoes are made from washable, vegan, and natural materials.”

With nearly 2,500 five-star ratings, they’re a hit with Amazon shoppers. “These are comfy and cute and have plenty of arch support without being heavy. I love that I can get them in multiple colors and just can throw them in the washer as needed,” said one reviewer.

If you have a high arch, an ankle strap helps for stability purposes, explains Dr. Fuchs, who often recommends this brand to her patients. “The support of an ankle strap fills in the arch nicely. And this extra support is especially important when you’re looking for a heel, dress shoe, or any type of shoe that is inherently less stable than a sneaker.”

Multiple people with high arches shared their love of the shoes in the reviews section on Amazon, landing the wedges a 4.6-star rating overall. “Comfy, stylish, and beautiful!” one wrote.

While the cushioned cork and latex footbed offers the foot additional arch support, the flexible insole also provides shock absorption. Furthermore, since a foot with a high arch can rub on the top of a shoe, the soft material is more forgiving and allows for more room, says Dr. Fuchs.

“Best clog ever!” wrote a reviewer. “The leather of the clog is superb, and the footbed really does mold to your feet in the most remarkable way.”

Between the adjustable straps, textured footbed, and dual-density cushioning, the biomechanics behind these shoes allow the body to walk in proper alignment. “Vionic’s ‘Recovery Sandals’ are some of my favorites and I always recommend them,” states Dr. Schaeffer.

This unisex style in particular is great for wearing after a workout or simply for support while walking around your home. “They provide great arch support and relieved heel pain when I walk around the house on hard floors,” confirmed a shopper.

As with all the shoes made by Vionic, this rubber sole sandal is also constructed with its three-zone comfort—deep heel cup, forefoot cushioning, and midsole arch support—to help promote stability. Plus, these orthotic flip-flops are solid enough to be worn on the beach or around town.

It’s no wonder why they have more than 10,000 five-star ratings on Amazon. “Finally! I can enjoy wearing sandals without experiencing pain in my ankles and arches,” wrote one reviewer. “These Vionic sandals allowed me to walk for hours with out feeling any discomfort. I am going to buy another pair in a different style to wear on my upcoming vacation.”

“I like to recommend Hoka running and athletic shoes for those with high arches because they have a great offloading feature that provides a good balance transfer between heel strike and toe off, which is the actual movement of taking a step or heel-to-toe movement,” explains Dr. Schaeffer.

The Bondi 8 offers a wide toe box and soft memory foam collar that can conform to a wide variety of ankles. Plus, it has earned the AMPA Seal of Acceptance.

✔️ Seek support. “I can’t preach it enough: Find a shoe with good arch support!” emphasizes Dr. Schaeffer. “Proper arch support in shoes absorbs that pain-inducing pounding that happens when walking, running, or doing other activities.”

A few terms to search for include cushioning, cushioned footbed and shock absorption Dr. Fuchs. “High arch feet tend to put a lot of pressure on the ball of the foot, so you want as much cushioning (like a memory foam foot pad) or something with shock absorption at both the ball of the foot, as well as the heel,” she explains.

✔️ Say yes to adequate room in the toe box. Opt for shoes that allow enough room for toes to move around unrestricted, says Dr. Schaeffer. “Constricting shoes, whether flat or very high heeled, can have really adverse outcomes for your feet and body, and can exacerbate existing issues.”

✔️ Keep it light. Dr. Sutera says that people with a higher arched foot tend to prefer shoes that are accommodating, lighter, and cushioned. Dr. Schaeffer concurs and stresses that you should stay away from shoes that are too tall, flat, and stiff, as well as shoes that constrict your feet at any point. “The goal is achieve a neutral foot type movement, especially if you have high arches,” he adds.