Best shoes for arch support in 2026, according to testers and experts

Your feet are hard-working overachievers, logging thousands of steps a day to keep you moving. But feet aren't one-size-fits-all when it comes to support. Whether 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 the right support, your feet can end up overworked, unstable or just downright cranky. That's where the best shoes with arch support come in.

If you're ready to take the pressure off your arches, you're in the right place. To find the best options, we consulted three leading foot care experts — a podiatrist, a chiropractor and a physical therapist — spent hours researching, and tested 15 top-rated pairs to build our list of the best arch support sneakers, running shoes, sandals, gym shoes , casual shoes, slip-ons and more.

Since our initial test, we've tried more than 100 additional shoes across a variety of categories, keeping an eye out for standouts worthy of a spot on this list.

Keep reading to find your perfect pair.

Best overall shoe with arch support

More shoes with arch support we like in 2026

Who needs shoes with arch support?

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 flat feet 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.

Specific populations should pay extra attention to arch support, including:

• Those on their feet all day:Anyone who stands all day or is constantly on their feet all day, like a nurse , 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 flat feet 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 flat feet," 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."

Factors to consider when purchasing shoes with arch support

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 flat feet 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 to 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).

Using these insights, we tested 15 pairs of shoes from eight different brands to come up with our initial list. We're continuing to test and review shoes on a rolling basis to make ongoing updates to this article, based on our findings.

FAQs

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 flat feet."

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 flat feet, 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."

Meet our experts

• Rob Hermann , registered specialist podiatric foot and ankle surgeon

• Palak Shah ,PT, OCS, MLC, co-founder, head of clinical services at Luna

• Brent Wells ,DC and founder of Better Health Alaska

Update, July 16, 2025: We checked all prices and availability and updated our list to reflect recent testing results. Our No. 1 pick for best shoe for arch support is now the Hoka Bondi 9.

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.