Do your feet ever feel like they’re screaming for relief after a long day? If you have high arches, you know the struggle of finding shoes that actually feel good. It’s not just about looking stylish; it’s about comfort and keeping your feet healthy. Many men with high arches find themselves constantly battling discomfort, blisters, or even pain because their feet need extra support and cushioning.
The problem is, not all shoes are made the same. Many popular brands overlook the unique needs of high-arched feet. This can lead to frustration when trying to find footwear that offers the right kind of support. You might end up with shoes that are too stiff, too flat, or just don’t fit right, making everyday activities a chore.
But what if you could finally find shoes that cradle your feet in comfort and provide the stability you need? In this post, we’re going to dive deep into the best shoes for men with high arches. We’ll explore what makes a shoe ideal for your foot type and highlight some fantastic options that will have you walking on clouds. Get ready to discover footwear that truly supports your stride!
Our Top 5 Shoes For High Arches Mens Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Shoes For High Arches Mens Detailed Reviews
1. Brooks Men’s Ghost 16 Neutral Running Shoe – Blue/Bonnie Blue/Yellow – 9.5 Medium
Rating: 8.6/10
The Brooks Men’s Ghost 16 Neutral Running Shoe in Blue/Bonnie Blue/Yellow (size 9.5 Medium) is a fantastic choice for runners who want a smooth and enjoyable experience. It’s designed to let you focus on the fun of running, not on your feet. This shoe is even recognized for its diabetic-friendly features, thanks to its PDAC A5500 certification and APMA Seal of Acceptance. Plus, you can feel good about your purchase because it’s a certified carbon-neutral product!
What We Like:
- The nitrogen-infused DNA Loft v3 cushioning provides super soft and lightweight comfort, perfect for road running, walking, or gym workouts.
- Smooth transitions are a breeze thanks to the soft midsole and Segmented Crash Pad, which help you go from landing to toe-off easily.
- The engineered air mesh upper offers a great blend of stretch and structure, keeping your feet comfortable and breathable.
- The new RoadTack rubber outsole is made with recycled silica, making it durable, lightweight, and offering a nice rebound.
- It’s a certified carbon neutral product, which is great for the environment.
- The refined 3D Fit Print creates a more seamless and secure fit.
- It is certified as a diabetic shoe and has the APMA Seal of Acceptance.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the cushioning is soft, some runners might prefer a firmer feel for faster paces.
- The upper, while breathable, might not offer the most locked-in feel for very aggressive movements.
Overall, the Brooks Ghost 16 delivers a consistently smooth and comfortable ride for a wide range of activities. It’s a reliable option for anyone seeking dependable, soft cushioning.
2. Plantar Fasciitis Insoles
Rating: 9.2/10
Step into comfort and say goodbye to foot pain with these versatile Plantar Fasciitis Insoles. Designed for both men and women, these insoles offer robust arch support to tackle a range of foot issues, from flat feet and plantar fasciitis to pronation and heel spurs. They are engineered to provide relief and improve your posture, making every step more comfortable.
What We Like:
- Ergonomic high arch support is podiatrist-recommended for various foot pains like plantar fasciitis, flat feet, pronation, and metatarsalgia.
- Made with premium semi-rigid TPU heel pads and a soft, flexible PU foam and gel forefoot for balanced support.
- Breathable and flexible materials keep feet dry and comfortable, preventing blisters and reducing fatigue during long wear.
- Universally applicable for men and women, fitting easily into most shoe types like running shoes, boots, and casual sneakers.
- Ideal for activities such as walking, running, jogging, and even hiking, making them a great gift for anyone prioritizing foot health.
- Hassle-free purchase with prompt 24-hour after-sales service for refunds or replacements.
What Could Be Improved:
- The “trim to fit” feature, while helpful, requires careful cutting to ensure a perfect fit.
- While offering moderate support, individuals requiring very firm or specialized orthotics might need to explore other options.
These insoles are a fantastic investment for anyone seeking relief from common foot ailments and improved comfort throughout the day. They offer a practical solution for better foot health and are backed by excellent customer support.
3. VALSOLE Heavy Duty Support Pain Relief Orthotics – 220+ lbs Plantar Fasciitis High Arch Insoles for Men Women
Rating: 8.6/10
Tired of foot pain slowing you down? The VALSOLE Heavy Duty Support Pain Relief Orthotics are here to help! These insoles are built tough, supporting up to 220+ lbs. They offer fantastic arch support and amazing shock absorption, making every step feel better. Whether you have flat feet, plantar fasciitis, or just want more comfort, these are a game-changer.
What We Like:
- Excellent heavy-duty support for those over 220 lbs.
- Provides strong high arch support to relieve plantar fasciitis and foot pain.
- Absorbs shock with Poron heel pads, reducing fatigue and back pain.
- Made with durable TPU material for arch and heel stability.
- Comfortable fabric keeps feet fresh and reduces odor.
- Can be trimmed to fit most shoes, including work boots and athletic shoes.
- Helps correct foot alignment and prevent issues like bunions and Achilles tendonitis.
What Could Be Improved:
- The “super high arch support” might be too intense for some users with very low arches.
- While adaptable, some users might find the trimming process a bit tricky to get a perfect fit in every shoe.
If you’re looking for robust support and significant pain relief, these VALSOLE orthotics are a highly recommended option. They offer the comfort and stability you need to get through your day pain-free.
4. Skechers Men’s Gowalk Arch Fit-Athletic Workout Walking Shoe with Air Cooled Foam Sneaker
Rating: 8.5/10
Stepping into the Skechers Men’s Gowalk Arch Fit-Athletic Workout Walking Shoe in Grey/Navy, size 8.5 X-Wide, feels like a game-changer for your feet. These aren’t just any sneakers; they’re built with serious support in mind. The special Arch Fit insole is designed by foot doctors and uses tons of foot scan data to give your arches the best possible comfort and help. Plus, the soft foam inside makes walking feel great and spreads out the pressure on your feet.
What We Like:
- The patented Skechers Arch Fit insole truly delivers podiatrist-certified arch support, making a noticeable difference.
- The podiatrist-designed shape, based on years of foot data, feels custom-made for your feet.
- You can remove the insole, which helps it mold to your foot for better shock absorption and weight distribution.
- The ULTRA GO cushioning is super light and bounces back with every step, making your walks feel energetic.
- A tough dual-density outsole gives you great stability and keeps you on your feet.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the X-Wide is available, wider widths might be limited in other color options.
- The focus on arch support might not be ideal for those with very flat feet who prefer a completely neutral shoe.
These Skechers shoes offer fantastic support and comfort for anyone who spends a lot of time on their feet. They are a solid choice for daily walks and workouts.
5. Brooks Men’s Adrenaline GTS 23 Supportive Running Shoe – Oyster/Black/Red Orange – 12.5 Medium
Rating: 8.9/10
The Brooks Men’s Adrenaline GTS 23 in Oyster/Black/Red Orange, size 12.5 Medium, is a running shoe designed for comfort and support. It’s a great choice for runners who need a stable shoe for their daily runs. This shoe is also recognized as a diabetic-friendly option with a special certification. It’s the latest version in the popular Adrenaline line, improving on its predecessor.
What We Like:
- GUIDERAILS Holistic Support System: This technology helps keep your stride in a natural path, preventing too much movement.
- Soft, Lightweight Cushioning: The new DNA LOFT v2 cushioning makes the shoe feel softer and lighter underfoot.
- Enhanced Upper: The engineered air mesh upper is comfortable and lets your feet breathe. The 3D Fit Print adds structure where you need it.
- Trusted, Secure Fit: The combination of engineered air mesh and 3D Fit Print provides the reliable and snug fit runners expect from the Adrenaline series.
- Diabetic Shoe Certification: It is a certified diabetic shoe and has earned the APMA Seal of Acceptance, showing its suitability for sensitive feet.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the cushioning is soft, some runners prefer even more plushness.
- The Red Orange color might not be for everyone.
Overall, the Brooks Adrenaline GTS 23 offers a supportive and smooth ride. It’s a reliable option for many runners looking for comfort and stability.
Finding the Best Shoes for High Arches: A Guy’s Guide
Having high arches can sometimes make finding comfortable shoes a challenge. Your arches don’t get enough support from regular shoes. This can lead to pain in your feet, ankles, and even your knees. But don’t worry! With the right information, you can find shoes that feel great and keep you moving.
Key Features to Look For
When you’re shopping for shoes for high arches, keep an eye out for these important features:
- **Excellent Arch Support:** This is the most important thing. The shoe should have a built-in curve that matches the shape of your high arch. This helps distribute your weight evenly.
- **Cushioning:** Soft padding inside the shoe absorbs shock. This is vital for high arches because they don’t naturally absorb shock as well.
- **Good Midsole:** The midsole is the layer between the outsole (bottom of the shoe) and the insole (where your foot rests). A supportive and cushioned midsole is crucial.
- **Durable Outsole:** The bottom of the shoe needs to be tough and provide good grip. This helps prevent slips and adds to the shoe’s lifespan.
- **Comfortable Fit:** The shoe should feel snug but not tight. There should be enough room in the toe box for your toes to wiggle.
Important Materials
The materials used in a shoe play a big role in how it feels and performs.
- **Leather:** Leather is a strong and flexible material. It can mold to your foot over time, offering a personalized fit and good support.
- **Mesh:** Mesh is a breathable fabric. It helps keep your feet cool and dry, which is great for preventing blisters and discomfort.
- **Foam (EVA, PU):** Ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA) and polyurethane (PU) are common types of foam used in midsoles. They provide excellent cushioning and shock absorption.
- **Rubber:** Rubber is used for the outsole. It offers great traction and durability, making the shoe last longer and preventing slips.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Some things make a shoe better, while others can make it worse.
- **Improved Quality:**
- Proper Fit: A shoe that fits well from the start will feel much better.
- Brand Reputation: Well-known brands often use better materials and have more research behind their designs.
- Positive Reviews: Reading what other people say can give you a good idea of a shoe’s quality.
- **Reduced Quality:**
- Lack of Support: Shoes that are flat inside won’t help your high arches at all.
- Poor Cushioning: If the shoe feels hard, it won’t absorb shock well.
- Cheap Materials: Shoes made with flimsy materials will wear out quickly and offer little support.
User Experience and Use Cases
How you use your shoes matters. Think about what you’ll be doing in them.
- Everyday Wear: For walking around town or running errands, comfort and support are key. Sneakers with good cushioning and arch support are usually a great choice.
- Running/Athletics: If you’re active, you need shoes designed for your sport. Running shoes with extra stability and shock absorption will protect your feet.
- Work: If you’re on your feet all day at work, look for shoes that offer all-day comfort and support. Dress shoes with supportive insoles or comfortable work boots are good options.
- Hiking: Hiking boots need to be rugged and supportive. They should also have good ankle support to prevent injuries on uneven terrain.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What are the main key features to look for in shoes for high arches?
A: The main key features are excellent arch support, good cushioning, a supportive midsole, a durable outsole, and a comfortable fit.
Q: Are there specific materials that are better for high arches?
A: Yes, materials like leather for its molding properties, mesh for breathability, and foam (EVA, PU) for cushioning are beneficial.
Q: How does a shoe’s midsole affect its quality for high arches?
A: A good midsole provides crucial cushioning and shock absorption, which helps support the high arch and reduce impact.
Q: What is the difference between EVA and PU foam in shoes?
A: EVA foam is generally lighter and more flexible, offering good cushioning. PU foam is usually denser and more durable, providing firmer support and better shock absorption.
Q: Can I improve the arch support in my current shoes?
A: Yes, you can often add supportive insoles or orthotics to your existing shoes to improve arch support.
Q: How important is the outsole for shoes with high arches?
A: The outsole is important for providing good traction and durability, which helps with overall stability and prevents slips.
Q: What kind of shoes are best for everyday wear if I have high arches?
A: Comfortable sneakers with built-in arch support and good cushioning are usually the best choice for everyday wear.
Q: Should I consider the weight of the shoe when I have high arches?
A: While not the primary factor, lighter shoes can sometimes feel more comfortable and less taxing on your feet over long periods.
Q: How can I tell if a shoe has good arch support without trying it on?
A: Look for descriptions that mention “built-in arch support,” “supportive footbed,” or “motion control features.” Also, check reviews from people with similar foot types.
Q: What are some common problems people with high arches experience with shoes?
A: Common problems include foot pain, heel pain (plantar fasciitis), shin splints, and general discomfort due to a lack of proper support and shock absorption.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.
David Ruperto is a Footwear Engineer with expertise in 3D printing, design, and pattern making. With a background in Fine Arts from CUNY and training from SLEM and Cordwainer’s Savannah, he blends creativity with innovation. Based in New York, he shares his knowledge on BestForShoes.com, helping others explore the world of footwear.