What Running Shoes Have the Best Arch Support?

Finding running shoes with proper arch support can mean the difference between pain free training and chronic discomfort. Whether you’re dealing with flat feet, high arches, or something in between, the right shoe helps distribute load, absorb shock, and keep your stride efficient. If you want to explore more options for foot health and comfort, check our blog post on choosing shoes for foot pain relief.

This guide breaks down the best running shoes for arch support available in 2024–2026, covering everything from stability shoes for overpronators to cushioned neutral shoes for high arch runners. We’ll explain what makes a shoe supportive, how to test shoes for your needs, and practical tips for matching footwear to your arch type and running terrain.

Key Takeaways

• Top arch support running shoes in 2025 include the Hoka Gaviota 5, Brooks Glycerin GTS 21, Asics Gel-Kayano 31, Nike InfinityRN 4, and New Balance 860v14, each offering distinct support systems for different arch types.

• Firm stability shoes with medial posts work best for low arches and flat feet, while cushioned neutral shoes with sculpted midsoles suit medium to high arches that need shock absorption without rigid correction.

• Effective arch support comes from a combination of midsole geometry, cushioning level, heel counter design, and overall fit—not just a hard insert under the arch.

• Runners with high arches often need more cushioning and lateral stability to compensate for reduced natural impact absorption, while overpronators benefit from motion control shoes with firmer foam densities.

Best Overall Running Shoes for Arch Support (Quick Answers)

If you’re short on time and want reliable options, here are the arch support running shoes that consistently perform well across independent reviews, podiatrist recommendations, and real-world testing. These models are widely available in the UK and Ireland through brand websites and major sports retailers.

BROOKS Ghost 17 – Neutral shoe

• Drop: ~10 mm

• Cushioning: Balanced DNA Loft v4 foam for plush, responsive ride

• Best for: Medium to high arches needing reliable daily support

The Ghost 17 is ideal for runners seeking moderate arch support with a smooth, cushioned ride. Its updated midsole offers enhanced shock absorption, while the slightly wider platform and sculpted midsole help evenly distribute pressure across the arch. Perfect for daily training and longer runs, it also accommodates medium to wider feet comfortably.

NEW BALANCE WIDE W860 – Stability shoe

• Drop: ~8–10 mm

• Cushioning: Dual-density midsole with medial post for overpronation control

• Best for: Flat to low arches needing firm stability and wide fit

The WIDE W860 provides traditional stability with a wider base, ideal for flat-footed runners or those with moderate overpronation. Its dual-density midsole corrects inward foot roll while offering consistent cushioning. The roomy toe box and structured heel counter ensure comfort on long runs, making it a reliable option for injury prevention.

Hoka Gaviota 5 – Stability shoe

• Drop: ~6 mm

• Cushioning: Maximal cushioning with H-Frame support

• Best for: Low to flat arches and strong overpronation

Hoka Gaviota 5 delivers maximum support for runners who need firm stability with plush cushioning. The H-Frame midsole absorbs impact while controlling inward foot roll, ideal for heavier runners or those with severe overpronation.

Nike InfinityRN 4 – Stability-leaning neutral

• Drop: ~9 mm

• Cushioning: ReactX foam with wide platform

• Best for: Low to medium arches preferring subtle support

Nike InfinityRN 4 offers gentle stability without aggressive correction, featuring a responsive foam and wide platform to help distribute impact evenly. Suited for runners who prefer a neutral feel with added support.

Asics Novablast 5 – Neutral shoe

• Drop: ~8 mm

• Cushioning: High stack with FF Blast+ foam

• Best for: Medium to high arches needing plush cushioning

Asics Novablast 5 provides a soft, springy ride with mild arch support through its sculpted midsole. It is perfect for runners with higher arches who prioritize comfort and cushioning over rigid stability.

How We Assessed Running Shoes for Arch Support

Selection criteria for the shoes featured in this guide included:

• Midsole structure – presence of stability systems such as medial posts, sidewalls, H-Frames, or GuideRails

• Arch contour and in-shoe feel – how well the midsole shape cradles different arch types

• Cushioning level and shock absorption – measured softness (Shore A or durometer ratings where available) and stack heights

• Heel-to-toe drop – typically 6–12 mm for supportive daily trainers

• Weight – balancing protection with responsiveness

• Outsole design and grip – durability and traction on wet surfaces common in Ireland

• Long-term durability – verified user reports on mileage before support degradation

Evidence considered includes podiatrist recommendations, independent lab data (such as Shore A softness measurements and stack heights), verified user mileage reports, and availability in Ireland and the UK. All models named are current or recently updated as of 2024–early 2025 to ensure readers aren’t chasing discontinued versions.

The same principles used to design stable, comfortable cleanroom environments—load distribution, vibration control, and fatigue reduction—are analogous to what makes a supportive running shoe. Just as we engineer systems to maintain consistent conditions under varying loads, a well-designed shoe maintains consistent support across your stride.

Best Stability Running Shoes for Low Arches and Overpronation

Stability shoes and motion control shoes are engineered to limit excessive inward rolling of the ankle—a movement pattern called overpronation. These designs are ideal for runners with flat feet or very low arches who need additional support to maintain alignment.

Most stability shoes feature firmer foam densities along the inner midsole (medial posts), stiff heel counters, and broader platforms that prevent excessive movement. While they may feel a bit stiff compared to neutral running shoes, they significantly reduce injury risk for overpronators—studies suggest 15–20% lower injury rates compared to unsupported footwear.

BROOKS Ghost 17 – Neutral shoe

• Drop: ~10 mm

• Cushioning: Balanced DNA Loft v4 foam for plush, responsive ride

• Best for: Medium to high arches needing reliable daily support

The Ghost 17 is a versatile neutral trainer, perfect for runners who need moderate arch support without rigid correction. It features an updated midsole with DNA Loft v4 foam for extra cushioning and smoother transitions. The slightly wider platform and sculpted midsole help distribute pressure evenly across medium to high arches, reducing fatigue during longer runs.

Strengths include a breathable mesh upper, reliable grip in wet conditions common in Ireland, and a durable outsole that supports hundreds of kilometers of road running. Its fit accommodates medium to wider feet, making it an excellent everyday running shoe.

NEW BALANCE WIDE W860 – Stability shoe

• Drop: ~8–10 mm

• Cushioning: Dual-density midsole with medial post for overpronation control

• Best for: Flat to low arches needing firm stability and wide fit

The WIDE W860 offers traditional stability with a wider base, making it ideal for runners with flat feet or moderate overpronation. Its dual-density midsole gently corrects inward rolling while providing consistent cushioning throughout the stride. The shoe’s spacious toe box and structured heel counter allow for comfortable long-distance runs and accommodate wider feet without compromising support.

This model combines proven stability technology with a smooth ride, suitable for daily road training, and is particularly recommended for runners prioritizing arch alignment and injury prevention.

Hoka Gaviota 5 – Stability shoe

• Drop: ~6 mm

• Cushioning: Maximal cushioning with H-Frame support

• Best for: Low to flat arches and strong overpronation

The Gaviota 5 provides maximum support with its H-Frame midsole, absorbing impact while controlling inward foot roll. It is ideal for heavier runners or those with severe overpronation needing a firm yet cushioned ride.

Nike InfinityRN 4 – Stability-leaning neutral

• Drop: ~9 mm

• Cushioning: ReactX foam with wide platform

• Best for: Low to medium arches preferring subtle support

This model offers gentle stability for runners who want neutral flexibility with some guidance. The wide base and responsive foam help distribute impact evenly.

Asics Novablast 5 – Neutral shoe

• Drop: ~8 mm

• Cushioning: High stack with FF Blast+ foam

• Best for: Medium to high arches needing plush cushioning

The Novablast 5 delivers a springy, cushioned ride with mild arch support through its sculpted midsole. Ideal for runners with higher arches seeking comfort over rigid stability.

Best Neutral Running Shoes for Medium and High Arches

Neutral shoes still offer arch support, but they achieve it through sculpted midsoles and cushioning rather than rigid posts. This approach works well for runners with neutral or high arches who don’t need overpronation correction.

High arches often require extra cushioning and shock absorption because a naturally stiff foot doesn’t absorb impact effectively on its own. Research shows high-arched runners experience 20–30% higher peak forces per stride, making plush cushioning essential for injury prevention.

BROOKS Ghost 17 – Neutral shoe

• Drop: ~10 mm

• Cushioning: DNA Loft v4 foam for balanced, responsive support

• Best for: Medium to high arches needing reliable daily support

The Ghost 17 is a versatile neutral trainer with moderate arch support through a sculpted midsole and removable insole. It evenly distributes pressure across medium to high arches without feeling intrusive. Its breathable mesh upper and durable outsole make it ideal for Irish weather and long-distance running. The shoe also accommodates medium to wider feet comfortably, making it an excellent option for daily training or walking.

NEW BALANCE WIDE W860 – Stability shoe

• Drop: ~8–10 mm

• Cushioning: Dual-density midsole with medial post for stability

• Best for: Flat to low arches needing firm support and wide fit

The WIDE W860 combines stability with a wider platform, perfect for runners who need firm arch support but also extra room for comfort. Its dual-density midsole gently corrects inward rolling while still providing cushioning for medium to long runs. The structured heel and spacious toe box make it an ideal choice for runners who prefer a supportive, injury-preventing shoe with a comfortable fit.

Asics Novablast 5 – Neutral shoe

• Drop: ~8 mm

• Cushioning: High stack with FF Blast+ foam

• Best for: Medium to high arches needing plush cushioning

The Novablast 5 offers a soft, springy ride while maintaining midfoot structure and moderate arch support. Its high-stack midsole and trampoline-like foam absorb impact effectively, making it ideal for runners with high arches who want comfort and cushioning over rigid stability. The sculpted midsole helps prevent lateral instability during longer runs.

Hoka Clifton 10 – Neutral shoe

• Drop: ~8 mm

• Cushioning: Maximal cushioning with gentle arch cradle

• Best for: Medium to high arches seeking comfort over correction

The Clifton 10 provides plush cushioning and a gentle arch cradle, suitable for neutral gaits or mild supination. Its Meta-Rocker geometry encourages smooth heel-to-toe transitions, reducing fatigue on long runs. Lightweight and soft, it prioritizes comfort without sacrificing responsiveness.

Nike Pegasus 41 – Neutral shoe

• Drop: ~10 mm

• Cushioning: ReactX foam with dual Air Zoom units

• Best for: Medium arches needing moderate arch support

The Pegasus 41 is a reliable daily trainer offering moderate arch support with a neutral feel. Its engineered mesh upper is breathable for year-round use, while the wide base and sculpted midsole provide stability without over-correcting. Perfect for easy runs, strides, or daily mileage, it balances comfort and responsiveness.

Best Running Shoes for High Arches and Supination

High arches (pes cavus) often lead to underpronation or supination—where the foot rolls outward during stride. This reduces natural shock absorption and increases the risk of stress fractures, shin splints, and ankle sprains.

Shoes for high arches should offer substantial cushioning, lateral stability to prevent outward roll, and a shaped midsole that supports without digging into the arch. Many high-arched runners find aggressive stability shoes uncomfortable because they don’t need inward-roll correction.

BROOKS Ghost 17 – Neutral shoe

• Drop: ~10 mm

• Cushioning: DNA Loft v4 foam for responsive, plush support

• Best for: Medium to high arches needing consistent daily comfort

The Ghost 17 is ideal for runners with high arches seeking soft, balanced cushioning. Its sculpted midsole and slightly wider platform help distribute pressure evenly across the foot while reducing fatigue on long runs. The shoe works well for medium to high arches without overcorrecting, and its breathable upper and durable outsole are perfect for all-weather training in Ireland.

NEW BALANCE WIDE W860 – Stability shoe

• Drop: ~8–10 mm

• Cushioning: Dual-density midsole with medial post for stability

• Best for: Flat to low arches needing firm support (also suitable for mild supinators needing structure)

The WIDE W860 provides firm arch support through a dual-density midsole while maintaining overall comfort for longer runs. Its wider platform reduces lateral instability, and the structured heel ensures proper alignment. This makes it a reliable choice for runners with high arches who also prefer a shoe that offers stability and a roomy fit.

Asics Novablast 5 – Neutral shoe

• Drop: ~8 mm

• Cushioning: High-stack FF Blast+ foam

• Best for: Medium to high arches needing plush cushioning

The Novablast 5 absorbs impact at the heel and forefoot thanks to its soft, springy midsole. Its sculpted geometry keeps the foot centred, reducing lateral instability common in high-arched runners. The ride is cushioned yet responsive, ideal for long-distance road running.

Hoka Clifton 10 – Neutral shoe

• Drop: ~8 mm

• Cushioning: Maximal cushioning with gentle arch cradle

• Best for: High arches seeking comfort over rigid support

Clifton 10 distributes load evenly along the foot with a plush midsole and gentle arch cradle. Its Meta-Rocker design encourages smooth heel-to-toe transitions, reducing fatigue. Lightweight yet cushioned, it works well for supinators or neutral runners needing comfort over correction.

Nike Invincible Run 3 – Neutral shoe

• Drop: ~9 mm

• Cushioning: High-stack ZoomX foam for strong impact absorption

• Best for: High arches needing plush protection for recovery or long runs

The Invincible Run 3 provides a soft, cushioned ride with lateral stability through a wide base and sculpted sidewalls. Perfect for runners with high arches who want protection over ground feel, it excels on recovery runs or longer easy sessions.

Key Shoe Features That Provide Effective Arch Support

“Arch support” is more than an insert; it’s an entire system of midsole foam, geometry, heel design, and upper fit working together. Understanding these features helps you evaluate whether a shoe will work for your arch type.

Key Features of Running Shoes for Arch Support

• Midsole Cushioning: Absorbs impact and provides comfort. High arches benefit from softer foam, while low arches tolerate firmer foam better.

• Heel-to-Toe Drop: Influences weight distribution and calf loading. A drop of 8–12 mm suits most runners, with lower drops favored for those with a natural gait.

• Stability Systems: Includes medial posts, rails, or frames designed to prevent overpronation. These are best for low arches and flat feet but should be avoided by runners with high arches.

• Rocker Geometry: Encourages a smooth forward roll during the stride and reduces strain on the arch. Beneficial for all arch types, especially for runners with stiff high arches.

• Heel Counter Stiffness: Controls rearfoot motion. Overpronators typically need stiff heel counters, while supinators require moderate stiffness.

• Platform Width: Provides lateral stability. Runners with high arches who are prone to supination benefit from wider base platforms.

• Insole Design: Contours to the shape of the arch. Removable insoles allow for the use of custom orthotics if needed.

For high arches, prioritise soft cushioning, moderate heel counters, and wider platforms. For low arches, look for motion control features like medial posts and stiff heel counters.

How to Tell If a Running Shoe Has Enough Arch Support for You

Arch support is personal—the same shoe can feel perfect for one runner and intrusive for another. The goal is finding a shoe feels right throughout your stride, not just in the shop.

Simple at-home checks:

• Wet test – Wet your foot and step on paper to see your arch imprint. Full imprint suggests flat/low arches; thin imprint suggests high arches.

• Standing check – Put on the shoe and stand naturally. You should feel the arch contour supporting your foot without pressing uncomfortably.

• Short test run – Jog for 5–10 minutes if possible. Feel for pressure points, gaps under the arch, or instability.

Warning signs of insufficient support:

• Inner foot cramping during or after runs

• Persistent arch ache post-run

• Shin splints that improve with more stable shoe options

• Knee pain that lessens when switching to supportive footwear

Signs of too much or poorly placed support:

• Sharp pressure under the arch

• Blisters along the arch or medial side

• Feeling of being “pushed outward” onto the foot’s edge

   

Practical Buying Tips: Matching Shoes to Your Arch and Terrain

Arch support needs vary with body weight, weekly mileage, running surface (road, trail, treadmill), and even job demands if shoes double as daily wear. Here’s guidance for matching the right running shoe to your specific situation.

By Arch Type:

• Flat or low arches typically benefit from stability or motion control running shoes with a heel-to-toe drop between 8 and 12 mm and moderate to firm cushioning to provide adequate support and prevent excessive inward rolling.

• Medium arches are best suited to neutral or mild stability shoes, featuring a similar 8 to 12 mm drop and moderate cushioning that balances support and flexibility.

• High arches require neutral running shoes with plush cushioning, usually with a slightly lower drop between 6 and 10 mm, and soft to very soft cushioning to absorb impact effectively and promote comfort.

By Terrain:

• Trail running – Look for aggressive lugs, rock plates, and stable platforms (e.g., Brooks Cascadia 17)

• Wet roads – Prioritise durable rubber outsoles with proven wet grip

• Treadmill – Balanced cushioning; less outsole grip needed

Replacement timing:

Replace running shoes roughly every 500–800 km, or when the midsole visibly compresses and the outsole shows significant wear. Waiting too long compromises arch support performance even if the upper looks fine.

FAQ

This FAQ covers common arch-support questions not fully answered in the sections above.

Do arch-support running shoes weaken my feet over time?

Current evidence does not show that wearing running shoes inherently weakens feet. Many runners and workers use supportive footwear long-term without losing strength or function.

Arch support can actually reduce pain and injury risk, especially during higher mileage or on hard surfaces. Targeted strength and mobility work can be done in parallel if you want to build intrinsic foot strength.

Should I add insoles or custom orthotics to these running shoes?

Many runners do well with stock insoles in modern shoes, but over-the-counter insoles can fine-tune arch feel and volume if needed. This is especially true if you have medium arches that fall between shoe categories.

Custom orthotics are recommended for those with diagnosed conditions—severe flat feet credit, very high arches, or chronic plantar fasciitis—under guidance from a podiatrist or orthopaedic specialist.

Be cautious about stacking aggressive orthotics inside very rigid stability shoes, as this may over-correct your gait. Similar to over-specifying control systems in engineering projects, too much intervention can create new problems.

Test fit carefully, ensuring adequate room and correct heel and arch positioning when an insole is added.

How long does arch support in a running shoe really last?

Arch support effectiveness declines as the midsole compresses and outsole wears, typically after 500–800 km depending on runner weight, surface, and foam type.

Monitor for signs like increased post-run soreness, a “flat” feel underfoot, or visibly creased/compressed midsole foam. Harder, more stable foams tend to keep their support slightly longer than ultra-soft foams, but grip and upper integrity also factor into replacement timing.

Is more arch support always better?

More support is not always better. Excessive or poorly located support can cause new problems by forcing the foot into an unnatural position, leading to compensatory issues elsewhere in the kinetic chain.

The right level balances comfort, natural movement, and injury prevention—just as engineered systems balance control and flexibility. A shoe with maximum support labelling might actually feel worse for a high-arched runner who needs cushioning rather than rigidity.

Start by identifying your arch type using the wet test, then narrow your options based on whether you need stability features or neutral cushioning. When in doubt, visit a specialist running shoe store for gait analysis—or consult a podiatrist if persistent pain is involved.

The perfect shoe won’t solve every problem, but wearing running shoes matched to your arch type is one of the most effective steps you can take toward pain free, enjoyable running.