Do your feet ache after a long walk? Do you feel like you’re walking on clouds one minute and rocks the next? Finding the perfect walking shoes can feel like a treasure hunt, especially when you have high arches. It’s tough because shoes that feel great for one person might feel terrible for another. You want shoes that support your feet just right, but it’s hard to know where to start with so many choices out there.
This is where we come in! In this post, we’ll break down exactly what to look for in walking shoes for high arches. You’ll learn what makes a shoe perfect for your unique feet and how to avoid common mistakes. By the end, you’ll feel confident about picking shoes that keep your feet happy and pain-free on every adventure.
Our Top 5 Walking Shoes High Arch Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Walking Shoes High Arch Detailed Reviews
1. Brooks Men’s Ghost 16 Neutral Running Shoe – Blue/Bonnie Blue/Yellow – 9.5 Medium
Rating: 8.9/10
The Brooks Men’s Ghost 16 Neutral Running Shoe in Blue/Bonnie Blue/Yellow, size 9.5 Medium, is designed for runners who want a smooth, comfortable experience without any distractions. It features a special 3D Fit Print for a secure feel. These shoes are also recognized as a certified diabetic shoe and have the APMA Seal of Acceptance. Plus, they are a carbon-neutral product!
What We Like:
- The DNA Loft v3 cushioning is super soft and uses nitrogen. It makes the shoe feel light and comfortable.
- The shoe helps you move smoothly from when your foot lands to when you push off. This means you get cushioning with every step.
- The engineered air mesh upper lets your feet breathe. It also stretches and holds its shape well, keeping you comfy.
- The new RoadTack rubber outsole is tough and light. It’s made with recycled materials and gives a good bounce.
- These shoes are great for running on roads, walking, gym workouts, and more.
- They are certified as a diabetic shoe and have the APMA Seal of Acceptance.
- The shoes are a certified carbon-neutral product, which is good for the environment.
What Could Be Improved:
- The previous model, the Ghost 15, is mentioned as a predecessor. Some runners might want to know more about the specific upgrades from that model.
Overall, the Brooks Ghost 16 offers excellent comfort and a smooth ride for many activities. It’s a well-rounded shoe for everyday wear and running.
2. Skechers Women’s Go Walk Arch Fit Unify Sneaker
Rating: 9.0/10
Step into amazing comfort and support with the Skechers Women’s Go Walk Arch Fit Unify Sneaker in Gray/Lavender, size 7.5. These sneakers are designed for your active lifestyle, offering a perfect blend of style and foot-friendly features. You’ll feel the difference with every step, whether you’re running errands or going for a long walk.
What We Like:
- The patented Skechers Arch Fit insole system provides podiatrist-certified arch support, which is fantastic for your feet.
- The removable insole molds to your foot, reducing shock and spreading out your weight for better comfort.
- Lightweight and responsive Ultra Go cushioning with Comfort Pillar Technology gives you extra support where you need it.
- The durable dual-density traction outsole keeps you stable on different surfaces.
- The breathable engineered mesh upper keeps your feet cool and comfortable.
- These sneakers are machine washable, making cleaning a breeze. Just air dry them.
- They are crafted with 100% vegan materials, so you can feel good about your purchase.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the support is excellent, some users might find the initial break-in period for the removable insole slightly takes getting used to.
- The specific shade of lavender might be a personal preference for some.
Overall, the Skechers Go Walk Arch Fit Unify Sneaker is an excellent choice for anyone seeking superior comfort and arch support in a stylish, easy-to-care-for shoe. Your feet will thank you!
3. Brooks Women’s Ghost 16 Neutral Running Shoe – White/Grey/Estate Blue – 10 Wide
Rating: 9.1/10
The Brooks Women’s Ghost 16 Neutral Running Shoe in White/Grey/Estate Blue, size 10 Wide, promises a smooth and comfortable experience for any runner. These shoes are designed to let you focus on the joy of your run, not on your feet. They even have special certifications for diabetic use and are recognized by the APMA, plus they are carbon neutral!
What We Like:
- Super soft cushioning thanks to the nitrogen-infused DNA Loft v3.
- The Segmented Crash Pad helps your foot move easily from landing to pushing off.
- The engineered air mesh upper feels good and lets your feet breathe.
- The new RoadTack rubber outsole is tough, light, and gives a good bounce.
- These shoes are great for running, walking, and even gym workouts.
- They are certified diabetic-friendly and have the APMA Seal of Acceptance.
- The shoe is a certified carbon neutral product.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the fit is generally good, some runners might prefer a more snug feel in the heel.
- The white color, while stylish, can get dirty easily on outdoor trails.
Overall, the Brooks Ghost 16 offers a fantastic blend of comfort and smooth performance for a variety of activities. You’ll enjoy every step in these supportive and breathable shoes.
4. New Balance Women’s 608 V5 Cross Trainer
Rating: 9.1/10
Step into comfort and support with the New Balance Women’s 608 V5 Cross Trainer in White/Light Blue, size 8.5 Wide. These shoes are designed to keep your feet happy whether you’re hitting the gym, running errands, or just enjoying a casual day out. They offer a great blend of cushioning and stability.
What We Like:
- The NDurance rubber outsole makes these shoes last a long time, even in spots that get a lot of wear.
- ABZORB midsole technology really helps absorb shock, making your steps feel softer.
- The lightweight injection-molded EVA foam midsole gives you comfy cushioning without feeling heavy.
- The wide fit is perfect for those who need a little extra room for comfort.
- The clean white and light blue design looks fresh and stylish.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the cushioning is good, some users might want even more for very intense workouts.
- The color options are somewhat limited, so if you prefer a bolder look, you might need to search elsewhere.
These New Balance 608 V5 trainers are a solid choice for everyday comfort and reliable performance. They provide the support you need for a variety of activities.
5. HKR Womens Walking Tennis Shoes Slip On Light Weight Mesh Platform Nursing Shoes Cushioned Sneakers All Black US 7(1839 EU 38)
Rating: 9.3/10
Step into comfort and style with the HKR Women’s Walking Tennis Shoes. These all-black sneakers are designed to make your feet feel great, no matter what you’re doing. They are super light and easy to wear, perfect for busy days.
What We Like:
- The stretchy mesh upper lets your feet breathe and keeps you comfortable.
- You can easily slip them on and off thanks to the elastic closure and heel tab.
- They help reduce heel pain with arch support and memory foam, making them great for people with foot issues.
- The cushioned design and rubber sole give you good grip and keep you stable.
- These shoes are perfect for lots of activities like walking, working, shopping, and even dancing.
What Could Be Improved:
- While they offer great comfort, some users might prefer more traditional lacing for a super-customized fit.
- The “platform” aspect is subtle, so those looking for a significant height boost might need to consider other options.
These HKR sneakers are a fantastic choice for anyone seeking comfortable and versatile footwear for their daily adventures. They offer a winning combination of comfort, ease, and support.
Finding Your Perfect Fit: A Guide to Walking Shoes for High Arches
Why Your Arches Matter
Do your feet feel tired after a short walk? Do you notice a big gap between the floor and the middle of your foot when you stand? You might have high arches. High arches mean your foot doesn’t flatten much when you walk. This can put more pressure on your heel and the ball of your foot. The right walking shoes can make a huge difference! They provide comfort and support, helping you walk longer and feel better.
Key Features to Look For
When you shop for walking shoes with high arches, keep these important things in mind:
- Excellent Arch Support: This is the most crucial feature. The shoe should have a built-in curve that matches the natural shape of your high arch. This helps distribute your weight evenly.
- Cushioning: High arches need extra shock absorption. Look for shoes with soft midsoles. This feels like walking on clouds!
- Heel Counter: This is the firm part at the back of the shoe. It should cup your heel snugly. This keeps your foot stable and prevents it from rolling inward or outward too much.
- Flexibility: While support is key, the shoe should still bend where your foot naturally bends – at the ball of your foot. This allows for a smooth stride.
- Roomy Toe Box: Your toes need space to wiggle. A wide toe box prevents them from getting squished, especially on longer walks.
Important Materials That Make a Difference
The materials used in walking shoes play a big role in how they feel and perform.
- Midsoles: These are usually made of foam like EVA (ethylene vinyl acetate) or PU (polyurethane). EVA is lighter and offers good cushioning. PU is denser and provides more durable support.
- Uppers: Breathable mesh is a popular choice. It keeps your feet cool and dry. Leather or synthetic leather can offer more durability and water resistance.
- Outsoles: Rubber is the best material for outsoles. It provides good grip on different surfaces and is very durable.
What Makes a Shoe Great (or Not So Great)
Some things make a walking shoe excellent for high arches, while others can make it less ideal.
- Quality Factors:
- Strong stitching and well-glued parts show good craftsmanship.
- A shoe that feels sturdy but not stiff is a good sign.
- Look for brands known for making supportive footwear.
- Factors That Reduce Quality:
- Shoes that feel flimsy or bend in the middle of the arch are not good.
- Lack of cushioning makes walking uncomfortable.
- Poorly made shoes wear out quickly.
User Experience and When to Wear Them
Wearing the right walking shoes can transform your daily activities. People with high arches often find that their pain decreases significantly. They can walk for longer periods without their feet feeling sore or tired. These shoes are perfect for:
- Daily walks in the park or around your neighborhood.
- Running errands.
- Standing for long periods at work (if your job allows for comfortable shoes).
- Casual strolls and sightseeing on vacation.
The goal is comfort and support, so you can enjoy moving your body without worry.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Walking Shoes for High Arches
Q: What is the most important thing to look for in walking shoes for high arches?
A: The most important thing is excellent arch support. The shoe needs to have a strong, built-in curve that fits your high arch.
Q: Will any walking shoe work for high arches?
A: No, not all walking shoes will work. You need shoes specifically designed to offer good support and cushioning for high arches.
Q: How do I know if a shoe has good arch support?
A: You can often see the arch support by looking at the insole. It should have a noticeable curve that fits the arch of your foot. Trying them on and feeling the support is also key.
Q: Is cushioning important for high arches?
A: Yes, cushioning is very important. High arches need extra shock absorption to reduce impact on the heel and ball of the foot.
Q: What if a shoe feels too stiff?
A: While support is important, the shoe should still bend where your foot naturally bends. If it’s too stiff everywhere, it might not allow for a natural walking motion.
Q: Can I wear my regular sneakers for walking if I have high arches?
A: Regular sneakers often lack the specific arch support and cushioning needed for high arches, which can lead to discomfort and pain.
Q: How long should walking shoes last?
A: With good care, quality walking shoes typically last between 300 to 500 miles of walking, or about 6 months to a year depending on use.
Q: Do I need to break in new walking shoes?
A: Most modern walking shoes are designed to be comfortable right away. However, it’s a good idea to wear them for short periods at first to get used to them.
Q: What is a heel counter and why does it matter?
A: A heel counter is the firm part at the back of the shoe. It helps keep your heel stable and prevents your foot from rolling too much, which is important for overall foot alignment.
Q: Can orthotics help if my walking shoes don’t have enough arch support?
A: Yes, if you find a walking shoe you like but it needs a little more arch support, you can often add over-the-counter or custom orthotics (insoles) to enhance the support.
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.