Do you aspire to become a world-class marathon runner? Wish you could run long distances like your peers? Challenged by a high arch condition? Think you’ll have to let go of your dream just because you don’t have properly arched feet? Then before you do, let us share with you something that might help you look at your situation from a new perspective. It’s said that ‘We don’t grow when things are easy; we grow when we face challenges’ and we couldn’t agree more. Passion, will-power, and the right pair of shoes is all you need to set the tracks on fire! If you are wondering what the best running shoes for high arches are and why they are so important, then we have you covered!
So, what if you are challenged by a high arch condition; you can still become a world-class runner and inspire the world. Now is the perfect time to proof your mettle and grow. When life puts you in challenging situations, you can either say ‘Why me?’ and give up on your dreams or say ‘Try Me?’ and push yourself a little harder to make your dream a reality. The choice is yours! Running hundreds of miles in high arches is difficult but not impossible.
Not many know this, but there is more to a runner’s shoe that meets the eye. That’s right! What kind of shoes you wear while running can make a world of difference and contribute significantly to your success. By getting the best running shoes for high arches, you can easily optimize your running potential and lower discomfort. When it comes to finding the right pair of shoes, it is important to understand that not all shoes are equal. To spare you from the long grind of finding the right shoe, browse through the top 10 best running shoes comparison guide that we have specifically created for you.
10 Best Running Shoes for High Arches Comparison Guide
Here is a list of top 10 running shoes for high arches that we have selected for you after an in-depth market research. It is advisable to analyze this chart carefully, to compare and evaluate your options before you make your pick.
| Picture | Running Shoes | Sizes (inches) | Width (inches) | Price | Our Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 | ASICS GEL-Nimbus 16 | 6 to 16 | D(M), 2E, 4E | $$$ |  |
 | ASICS GEL-Cumulus 18 | 6 to 15 | D(M), EE | $$$ |  |
 | Brooks Ghost 6 | 8 to 12 | D(M) | $$$ | |
 | Mizuno Wave Rider 18 | 7 to 16 | D(M), 2E | $$ | |
 | Mizuno Wave Creation 17 | 7 to 14 | D(M) | $$$ | |
 | New Balance 1080v4 | 7 to 16 | 2A, B(N), D(M), 2E, 4E | $$$$ | |
 | New Balance 890v4 | 7 to 15 | B(N), D(M), 2E, 4E | $$ |  |
 | Saucony Triumph 11 | 7 to 15 | D(M), 2E | $$ | |
 | Saucony Kinvara 7 | 7 to 15 | D(M) | $$ | |
 | Nike Air Pegasus+ 30 | 6 to 12 | D(M) | $$ | |
The interactive chart above has 6 columns which are.
• Running shoes pictures – (click to view more details or to purchase)
• Brand and model name – (click to view more details or to purchase)
• Available sizes – inches.
• Available Shoe Width – inches
• Price – These are approximate prices on Amazon.com. Here is the price legend: $ = under $50, $$ = $50 to $100, $$$ = $100 to $150, $$$$ = $200+
• Rating – These are our ratings on a 1 to 5 scale. The ratings can be very helpful in deciding if people are satisfied with their purchase.
Now you know what kind of running shoes are available to support your high arched feet, then let us take a look at these running shoes in details and how well they hold up to scrutiny. The following reviews will help you decide which pair of running shoes is best for your high arched feet.
Reviews of 10 Best Running Shoes for High Arches
1. ASCIS GEL-Nimbus 16
The ASCIS GEL-Nimbus 16 is one of the best running shoes on the market. Most runners and critics agree. I personally think it’s the best, all things considered. Most importantly, these running shoes provide excellent cushioning support. ASCIS likes to boast about its FluidRide™ midsole and larger Rearfoot and Forefoot GEL® Cushioning technology, which basically means that from heel to toe, you get complete cushioning for your high arched feet. This translates to a super smooth run with very little slipping and pulling.
Additionally, when its cushioning support is combined with an updated Guidance Trusstic System® and refined open-mesh upper, underpronators or supinators will be treated to the lightest and most cushioned version of the GEL-Nimbus® series ever. This means comfort with no performance loss. Additionally, these running shoes are available in a really vibrant and varying color schemes system. At around $150, the price isn’t anything to sneeze at, but this is a very well-engineered running shoe, and it should last you a long time.
2. Brooks Ghost 6
The Brooks Ghost 6 is one of the best pair of cushioning or neutral running shoes out there. Even though it is expensive one, but again, it’s very well-engineered and would be a great investment for anyone who wants to buy an excellent pair of running shoes. Millions of runners have trusted their feet with Ghost 6 for over years and will continue to traverse many miles with these running shoes
So what’s so special about them? First of all, like many high-end neutral running shoes, you’ll get an ample amount of cushioning. Unlike other running shoes, these are constructed with light weight material, thus making them smoother and lighter. To improve cushioning, Brooks introduced a proprietary BioMoGo DNA cushioning technology which offers adaptive cushioning and responsiveness. Finally, Brooks sweetened the deal by adding fully-integrated shock absorbers to provide smooth heel-to-toe transition. This combination of cushioning and shock absorbers maximizes the efficiency of every stride.
Brooks calls the Ghost 6 as the triple threat of balance, cushion, and lightweight materials. I beg to differ and call it a quadruple threat of adaptive, balance, cushion, and lightweight materials. The defining feature of this running shoes, however, is how adaptive they are to any given running surface. Ergonomically speaking, they are really well-conceived. Not only they are loaded with features, but they are available in various color schemes. So you get to enjoy a smooth and comfortable run, while standing out of the pack.
3. Mizuno Wave Rider 18
The Mizuno Wave Rider 18 is not to be confused with a surfer riding the waves at the ocean. But it is definitely a fine pair of neutral running shoes designed to make you feel a surfer’s exhilaration on the pavement. These running shoes offer an ideal balance of fit and performance. They are suitable for runners seeking a smooth ride in a sleek, lightweight daily trainer. Priced just a hair over $100, it is a pair or running shoes designed for a budget minded runner who doesn’t want any compromise over performance. Runners who demand a more resilient and responsive ride coupled with a superb underfoot cushioning won’t be able to resist Waver Rider 18’s charms.
4. New Balance 890V4
You may be asking yourself what took us so long to mention these awesome running shoes. They are clearly the reigning king of the other top 5. So why did we list them so late? Price. It can be surprisingly difficult to find these running shoes at throw away prices. The New Balance’s 890V4 gets the job done for around $150. These are one of the best cushioning or neutral running shoes at this price point. You simply cannot go wrong with this pair.
Moreover, the brand New Balance is now a house hold name. If you are pressed for time and want to get the best running shoes for high arches, then visit any popular athletic wear store and mention the name New Balance 890V4. You will certainly go home as a happy camper with your new running shoes. The New Balance 890V4 offers ample cushioning and a legendary performance. They prove the adage that you always get what you pay for.
5. Saucony Triumph 11
The Saucony Triumph 11 running shoes are slightly less expensive and well under $100. But that doesn’t mean they are any less sophisticated than the rest of the competitors. What makes Saucony Triumph 11 stand out from the rest is value at an unbeatable price. Like most of the neutral running shoes for high arched feet, the Triumph 11 offers ample heel and fore foot cushioning. The Triumph’s midsole doesn’t just only feature POWERGRID, it is made entirely from it. The result is a supremely comfortable, cushioned landing in a light shoe that’s ideal for any level runner on most pavements. Additionally, the Saucony Triumph 11 running shoes are available with jaw dropping color schemes, thus making them a winner when it comes to comfort and style, while absolutely no drop in performance.
6. ASICS GEL-Cumulus 18
ASICS GEL-Cumulus 18, being light weight is considered as best option for runners and sprinters. Upper body is perfect blend of mesh and synthetic materials. Mid sole is also crafted out of special EVA foam that offers with dual density and better quality gel pads. The mid foot shank is also molded out of plastic material. Even with so many features, Cumulus 18 is available in mid price range. Here are the specs.
- Under heels crafted out of hard Carbon material.
- Plastic shanks modified with visible midsole foam.
- Two visible reflective strips found above the mid and rear heel
- Upper part of the body lacks synthetic overlay.
- Roomy toe-box perfect to fit any foot anatomy and is a good blend of style and comfort.
ASICS GEL-Cumulus 18 is crafted out of material that is neither too firm nor too soft. The forefoot has a unique distinct design as it is crafted from all mesh material lacking synthetic touch. The toe bumper is made from firm synthetic material making it very much stylish and durable.
The toe-box anatomy is designed to fit any running style as the mid-foot wraps the feet with medium intensity. So if you are a long distance runner then ASICS GEL – Cumulus 18 is the best shoe for you.
7. Mizuno Wave Creation 17
If you are looking for a pair of running shoes in the mid price range then Mizuno Wave creation 17 is one of the best options available. The shoe is crafted out of wave cushion, thus making it easily visible on your feet. Apart from best color schemes manufacturers have also managed to offer it with aggressive looks. Let us take a closer look at this pair or running shoes.
- Sole is a perfect blend of U4ic foam material and signature wave cushion.
- Upper part is made up of non porous material making it completely breathable.
- The toe-box offers with improved wider fit – right from heel to toe.
- X10 Carbon offers more durability to the sole.
- Mid sole offers with performance and comfort at the same time.
The carbon material used in the sole protects it against abrasions and offers flexibility. This is one technology that helps runners gain instant speed. The sole material also offers with perfect ventilation for air flow when running.
Mizuno is a brand name that is known for better designs and color range. Being light weight it can also be considered as your all day shoe. Overlays are rigid and seamless offering best protection and grip tot your feet. With removable insole, Mizuno wave creation 17 is incredibly comfortable in the long run.
8. New Balance 1080v4
The New balance 1080v4 is equipped with perfect features that make it best running shoe for all season. The shoe is designed with asymmetrical heel that offers with optimal pronation factor and effective cushioning system. The upper is crafted out of light weight material made up of polyurethane shank. This feature ensures that the shoe is perfect fit for your feet. Apart from this, most runners also find that the shoe is well proportioned and offers with elegant traction setup. Now, how do the specifications stack up. Let’s find out.
- Custom designed and light weight with well ventilation system for effective air flow.
- The new 1080v4 series is a state of art creation by the manufacturers packed with fresh foam material midsole.
- The fresh foam mid sole was created after collecting unlimited biomechanical data from professional runners.
- The new mid sole design was created as single piece to pin point what runners exactly need – cushion and support.
- The underfoot is also well cushioned customized o fit the needs of the runners.
The upper part of the 1080v4 is designed using quality engineered mesh material. The inner part is designed to accommodate distinct instep heights and volumes. The inner part also securely wraps your feet and mid foot. The base of the shoe is also wide and thick for extra comfort.
Manufacturers have also crafted the upper part using different types of mesh materials together for firm grip. The toe area offers with more space which is a feature that is looked in by professional runners. The insole and midsole offers with perfect flexibility and stability. The out sole is also equipped with additional grooves to form perfect flex points for enabling smooth ride.
9. Saucony Kinvara 7
The Saucony Kinvara 7 series adds a new definition to the runner shoes category. The shoe is equipped with upper coverage that is comfortable and breathable crafted out of quality mesh and synthetic material. The overlays are made up of thin welded film called as flex film which offers with additional security to your feet. The shoe is a snug fit making it an ideal runner shoe for professionals. So, how are the specs? Let us take a look.
- Preferred by most runners because of quality Rundry lining in the collar area which provides with moisture wicking quality.
- The mid sole is crafted out of special SSL EVA component making it very much durable, responsive and light weight.
- During heel striking the ever run heel inserts provides with maximum assistance to the wearer.
- The outsole is made up of material that is more durable and tough specially designed for road running.
- Manufacturers have also made sure that buyers have wide range of selection from seven different color schemes.
Most professional runners also feel that the shoe is perfect fit in the mid foot region. One main benefit is that the sole region remains inflexible no matter for how long you wear them. As compared to the previous versions, Kinvara 7 is more comfortable and flexible.
Professionals feel that Kinvara 7 certainly is designed as the best runner shoe for handling road and up tempo running in different terrains. This feature places Kinvara 7 in the category of runner shoes for professional athletes and beginners alike.
10. Nike Air Pegasus+ 30
It is certain that Nike is a well known brand name for manufacturing quality shoe at affordable price range. Nike Air Pegasus+ 30 serves as reliable cushioned shoe for everyday training and high mileage. Most people like Pegasus+ 30 because of its reliability. For neutral runners, Pegasus+ 30 offers with extra soft cushioned grip. Manufacturers certainly have crafted Pegasus+ 30 out of the box with red colored mid foot and wide toe-box. Let us look at the specs.
- Plush cushioned for smooth and flexible transition on any terrain.
- Excellent flexibility at mid foot and fore foot area offering with secured fit near the heel region.
- Mid sole is crafted out of quality EVA cushioned foam that offers with soft and plush feeling for hours.
- The sole offers with good ground contact and firm grip for runners.
- The sole is designed to take tons of pressure with upper part broken down into out sole and mid sole.
The Pegasus+ 30 offers with much improved overall fit crafted out of engineered mesh and sections of much denser mesh. For average neutral runner, Nike Pegasus+ 30 delivers with miles of flexible transition. Even at the trainer level you can ensure that you are wearing a race-day shoe. Even with so many features, Pegasus+30 is considered as best buy in the mid price range for anyone.
How To Choose Running Shoes For High Arches?
Before you decide which pair of running shoes is best for your high arched feet, it is best to know how your feet pronate. Knowing this will help you make a better decision. So here is what you need to know when getting your new pair of running shoes.
What are High Arch Feet?
High arch feet are characterized as having an arch that is more raised than normal feet. The arch runs from the toes to the heel on the bottom of the foot. In medical terminology, this is referred to as pes cavus. In high arch feet, the foot print is curved or very narrow. With high arches, the ball and the heel are not evenly connected. High arch feet are usually are more rigid than other feet type.
There is no denying the fact that high arch is a special condition. It is a condition in which the arch is raised more than normal because of which more stress is placed on the section of the foot that is between the metatarsals (toes) and the ankle. This leads to chronic pain in the ankle, legs and hips. Coupled that with running which exposes you to higher risk of injuries like shin splints, stress fracture of the tibia, ligament rupture and ankle strain. Simply put, runners with high arches are more susceptible to bony injuries on the outside of their foot, leg and ankle.
When you are walking or running, your feet are absorbing most of the impact and shock. With high arches you have less surface area for absorbing impact and you place excessive pressure on your rear foot and front foot areas. This can make you susceptible to foot conditions such as plantar fasciitis, heel pain, or ball-of-foot pain.
A good way to visualize that you have high arches is to do a Wet Test. If you have high arches and you do a Wet Test, then you know what the imprint of feet looks like after doing the test. If you see just your heel, the ball of your foot, and no band connecting them, then you have a high arch, which is common in only 20% of the population. High arch is the exact opposite of flat feet and are much less common than flat feet. Unlike flat feet, highly arched feet tend to be painful because more stress is placed on the section of the foot between the ankle and toes.
How do High Arch Feet Pronate?
You may first ask “what is pronate or pronation?” Well, pronation is how a runner’s foot rolls laterally between footfall and toe-off. Pronation affects the sideways motion of your foot as it propels the foot forward. Runners with high arched feet tend to under pronate. Naturally, you may ask “what is under pronation?” Under pronation is when the foot rolls outwards between footfall and toe-off.
Under pronation which is also known as supination can be described as having an outward rolling for the foot which leads to insufficient impact reduction at landing. Another manner to define supination is that the insufficient inward roll of the foot after landing. This places additional stress on the foot. Further stress can end in an excessive amount of shock moving up your legs, since your arch does not collapse enough to absorb it up. People with high arch feet are referred to as underpronators or supinators.
You must know that in underpronation the inward movement of the foot occurs at less than 15 percent at which the foot normally rolls when running. Consequently, the forces of impact are not distributed evenly, which leads to poor shock absorption and increases the risk of runner injuries. However, this doesn’t mean you stop running.
If you want to know more about supination or under pronation and actually wish to see it in action, then please watch this video below.
What Kind of Running Shoes You Need for High Arches?
The recommended shoe type for people with high arch feet is the cushioning running shoes or neutral running shoes. While searching for cushioning or neutral running shoes, you must look for certain features. Here, we have made a checklist for you.
We want to point out that the shoe last is the form and the shape of a shoe. The curved last of running shoes is designed for rigid and high arches. This specific curved shape helps to promote inward motion.
Now you know what to look for when getting a pair of running shoes to support your high arched feet, then let us take a look at your options and how well they hold up to scrutiny.
Here are Quick and Proven Ways for Runners with High Arches to Avoid Injuries and Get Ready to Set the Tracks Ablaze
Like its said prevention is better than cure, we will share with you some great insights and proven techniques to prevent the risk of injury when running and achieve new milestones. Excited?
So, here we go!
1. Choose Your Running Shoes Carefully
As we mentioned earlier, high arches is a special condition and for special conditions you need special shoes. Therefore, make sure you select the right shoes specifically engineered for high arches. You can’t compromise on this! Since high arched feet tend to underpronate putting greater impact on the muscles, it is important that you choose a shoe that is cushier and has a curved sole. Cushioning and extra padding provides superior shock absorption which is much needed for runners with high arches while the curved sole allows the foot to pronate slightly for a more neutral running experience.
2. Avoid Staying on Your Feet for Excessive Periods
That’s right! Standing too long for excessive periods on your feet can lead to inflammation and aggravate foot pain. Therefore, it is advisable to avoid staying on your feet for long periods and to take regular breaks so that you can ease the tension in your feet.
3. Try the RICE (Rest, Ice, Compression and Elevation)
To lower discomfort and relieve yourself from pain, try the RICE method – Rest, Ice, Compression and Elevation. Here’s how it’s done, while resting your feet, ice them for about 15 minutes. Follow it by a compression bandage while gently elevating them above the heart. This will help your feet relax and minimize pain significantly.
4. Consider Arch Support and Ankle Strengthening Exercises
Strong ankles are vital to prevent strains, fractures and ankle sprains which high arched runners are prone to. Try ankle strengthening exercises to prevent the risk of recurrent sprains and runner injuries such as Ankle plantarflexion. This exercise is simple. All you need to do is stand in front of a table and place your hands on it for balance. Now raise yourself up on the tips of your toes and remain on them for 6 seconds at least. Then slowly return to standing position and repeat it 10 times. Another exercise is ankle dorsiflexion. Just like the above exercise, stand in front of the table and place your hands on it for balance. Now rock back on your heels, lifting your toes gently off the floor! Stay on your heels for 6 seconds and then relax. Repeat it 10 times for best results.
5. Prepare for Exercises or Activities
It is a good habit to steadily build knowledge of what muscle groups will be used while running and then slowly start conditioning them by strengthening them. Talk with a PM&R physician or a podiatrist to determine the appropriate type of exercises.
6. Alternate between Hard Days and Easy Days
It is a good idea that mileage should only be increased approximately 10 percent each week. You should make sure to decrease the mileage slightly every third week as a way to allow for recovery prior to additional mileage increases. We highly recommend that you practice to be patient with your development, being careful not to push yourself too far or too fast.
7. Change the Way you Tie your Laces
We are not kidding about this one. When you get your new running shoes, you will find that they are not laced correctly for your high arched feet. Therefore, you need to re-thread the laces just like it shows in the picture below. The advantage of this technique of lacing is that it removes pressure points on sensitive nerves on top of the foot.
Now It Is Your Turn to Get the Best Running Shoes for High Arches
Remember what T. Alan Armstrong said “Champions do not become champions when they win the event, but in the hours, weeks, months and years they spend preparing for it. The victorious performance itself is merely the demonstration of their championship character.” You heard it right! There is a champion in all of us. It is a result of a strong character and not accepting no for an answer despite whatever the odds are against you. On this planet, you’re an unstoppable force and you will not compromise.
Are you ready to take on the challenge and prove to the world that high arch is no limitation for you, in fact, a driving force to push yourself harder? Are you ready to realize your dream of becoming a world-class marathon champion? If yes, then you know what you have to do! Get the right pair of shoes.
We have provided you with complete information about high arches, best running shoes for high arches and ways to prevent injuries. Now it all comes down to you – how you use the information we have shared with you to its full advantage.
It is best to browse through our 10 best running shoes for high arches table to evaluate your options before you make your selection. Make your pick based on your running needs and goals. Good Luck!