You’ll find plenty of content on the web about the struggles of running with flat feet. Although, it’s more challenging to find information and solutions for foot pain while running with high arches. Runners with high arches know the pain, soreness, and injuries that can result from continuously running with traditional running shoes.
As the running community grows, more shoe companies are looking out for runners with varying foot shapes, prior injuries, pronation, and more. Our reviewers scoured the web, researched, and tested the best running shoes for people with high arches. This collection of the best running shoes for high arches highlights the latest and greatest for 2024.
Why High-Arch Running Shoes?
According to the Cleveland Clinic, roughly 20 percent of people have high arches. Unfortunately, high arches put runners at greater risk of injury in their feet, ankles, and knees.
The greater risk of pain and injury is because high arches cause runners to run with their ankles locked, limiting mobility and causing the foot to roll outward (underpronate). Underpronation also puts more weight and pressure on the balls of the feet when a person runs, which can lead to foot pain, joint pain, and potential injuries.
Feet with high arches do not typically have the same flexibility or shock absorption as those with normal arches. Runners with high arches are also more likely to develop plantar fasciitis, claw toes, and instability of the foot and ankle. Fortunately, the running industry’s leading manufacturers listened and now make shoes designed for runners with high arches.
What to Look for In a Running Shoe for High Arches
Several key characteristics set a running shoe for high arches apart from a traditional running shoe. Generally, the shoe will have arch support to combat underpronation and abundant cushioning for shock absorption that the foot alone doesn’t provide.
As with running shoes for average arches, supportive running shoes must be durable, breathable, and comfortable. They should fit snugly without causing rubbing or blisters.
The Best Running Shoes for High Arches
Our reviewers are Marathon Sports team members and avid runners. We put our runners with high arches on this job so they could report on critical factors like cushioning and support. The following six shoes are those that remained comfortable from the first mile to the last.
- New Balance Fresh Foam 860v14
- Brooks Ghost 16
- Asics Gel-Cumulus 26
- Saucony Ride 17
- HOKA Clifton 9
- Nike Pegasus 41
New Balance Fresh Foam 860v14
The updated New Balance Fresh Foam X 860v14 is the perfect stability shoe for those who prefer a softer feel. The 860×14 now features New Balance’s Stability Plane Technology, which supports the arch of the foot with an EVA film instead of the old method of rigid padding. This improvement comes with the 860’s classic, no-nonsense fit and its durable, rugged construction. The grip and tread on its thick outsole make each stride feel even more secure.
Though stability shoes are usually seen as solutions for overpronation, their sturdy construction can help any runner whose feet are more flexible than the norm, such as those with high arches. The stack height on this shoe is higher than the previous 860v13, at 29mm instead of 27mm. A high stack height protects the foot, keeping higher arches further from the force of the pavement. Overall, the New Balance Fresh Foam X 860v14 keeps the foot in place while maintaining a soft and comfortable sole.
Brooks Ghost 16
The Brooks Ghost is one of the most popular daily trainers, and with the new Ghost 16, Brooks has improved on a winning formula. The most notable new feature for those with high arches is its 12mm drop from heel to toe. Big drops can feel refreshingly natural on high-arched feet, as the dynamic movement of the shoe from heel to toe better follows the arches’ curves.
Our full Ghost 16 review elaborates on why this shoe is top pick for both beginner runners and advanced. A new engineered mesh upper is ultra-breathable. The RoadTack outsole combines rubber and silica for improved grip. What runners love most, however, is the new DNA Loft v3 midsole, which provides heavenly cushion without sacrificing support. The new Brooks Ghost 16 is also a carbon-neutral product, unlike its predecessor, so you can now enjoy a smooth and cushioned ride while protecting the environment.
Asics Gel-Cumulus 26
At only 9.1 oz for the men’s shoe and 7.7 oz for the women’s, the new ASICS Gel-Cumulus 26 is ultra-lightweight for a feeling of ease when running. Instead of a standard rubber outsole, it features an extra-thick layer of softer, lighter rubberized EVA. The new engineered mesh upper is thicker and more durable than other options. The Gel-Cumulus 26’s 8mm heel drop is substantial without being extreme and suits those with high arches.
The ASICS Gel-Cumulus 26 has a greater focus on stability than the Gel-Cumulus 25. While it’s considered a neutral shoe, it also corrects underpronation, the tendency for high arches to push weight to the outside edge of the foot. In addition to this stability, ASICS’ PureGel technology gives a cloudlike ride with four interlocking layers of inserts and cushioning. The Gel-Cumulus 26 offers comfort, stability and correction for high arches all at an affordable price.
Saucony Ride 17
Saucony’s shoes are known for cushion and comfort, so the Ride 17 is a top choice when it comes to running shoes for someone with high arches. The shoe’s PWRRUN+ cushioning compensates for these runners’ tendency to underpronate. The midsole in this year’s version is incredibly plush and puts the runner’s comfort first.
Saucony listened to the feedback of runners on the Ride 16 and took those suggestions to heart. The result is a cushioning system better than any previous version of this shoe. The Ride 17 provides more rebound, and it’s a noticeable difference. The shoe is built from vegan and recycled materials, and the engineered mesh upper provides a comfy fit for your feet. The 8mm heel-to-toe offset provides a little bit of extra stability for runners with high arches as well.
The increased outsole coverage provided by the Saucony Ride 17 should offer more stability for underpronators. This will offer greater protection against injury or rolling your ankle, while also making the shoes more durable and long-lasting.
HOKA Clifton 9
The HOKA Clifton 9 is known as one of the industry’s best cushioned running shoes, and our reviewers agree. This extra-cushioned running shoe offers a soft yet bouncy ride that our reviewers said made them feel more energetic. It’s hard to believe that much cushioning comes in such a lightweight package.
Runners with high arches will appreciate the shoe’s midsole foam placed specifically to protect arches and high-impact areas of the foot from impact. The tongue and upper are an ultra-breathable engineered mesh designed to keep feet cool and comfortable over long distances.
Runners with high arches tend to need more forgiving uppers, and our reviewers found bthat the HOKA Clifton 9 offered plenty of room. The company’s signature Meta-Rocker shape adds to the shoe’s appeal, offering smooth transitions that seem to make the miles fly by faster.
Nike Pegasus 41
The Nike Pegasus 41 continues the legacy of the Pegasus series, introducing significant updates to enhance comfort and performance for runners with high arches. This model features a full-length ReactX foam midsole, which provides 13% more energy return compared to the previous React foam. The shoe maintains the forefoot and heel Air Zoom units, ensuring responsive cushioning and a propulsive toe-off.
The Pegasus 41 is slightly lighter than its predecessor, weighing approximately 10.4 oz for men and 8.6 oz for women. The new upper design offers improved breathability and support, with a Dynamic Midfoot Fit system that secures the foot through an internal midfoot band. This version also includes a padded tongue and liner for added comfort.
Despite the increased stack height to 37mm in the heel and 27mm in the forefoot, the shoe remains versatile for various running surfaces, thanks to the durable waffle-pattern outsole.
Overall, the Nike Pegasus 41 is a reliable, stylish, and eco-friendly option that continues to support runners with high arches through its innovative design and technology. It’s available in multiple colorways and an extra-wide option, catering to different aesthetic preferences and foot shapes.
The Finish Line
Running with high arches shouldn’t hold you back from reaching your running goals. Our experts know how to connect runners with the shoes that work best for them. Whether you’re searching for running shoes for high arches, long-distance running shoes, or cushioned running shoes, we offer a variety of shoes for every type of runner.
Stop by one of our local stores to take part in our Right Fit™ program. We’ll assess your pronation, foot shape, gait, running style, goals, and various other factors to outfit you with the best possible running shoe for your needs.
Shop online or in stores today to get your pair of 2024’s top running shoes for high arches!
