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Best running shoes for high arches and narrow heels. Those are very unique requirements for a running shoe.

Also, special care needs to be taken while you are selecting the running shoes.

Rather than going through the agonizing pain of bad selection, try out some of the running shoes listed below.

All of them are good, however, Brooks Ghost 13 Women’s running shoes are my personal favorite.

So, go ahead and take a look. Also, read the detailed review below.

Best Running Shoes for High Arches and Narrow Heels in [current_year]

Editor Rating:
(4.8)

Brooks Ghost 13 is one of my favorite shoes. It has stood a lot of tests and has proven to be a true all-rounder.

If you browse through this website, you will find that it has become a go-to option for a lot of categories.

Some of them are the best running shoes for varicose veins or Best Running Shoes For Bunions And Arch Support and much more.

Also, based on our research these shoes are the best running shoes for high arches and narrow heels.

But why?

Brooks Ghost 13 is a very lightweight running shoe and comes with a lot of arch support.

This is a must when you have a high arch and is prone to a stress fracture.

Also, it will provide support to people who need neutral support and has a medium arch. 

It helps you with a very smooth heel to toe transition and you will always get a very comfortable running experience in every run.

The front portion of the energizing cushioning sole has a DNA crash pad. It is great for shock absorption and gives you a softer toe landing.

Also, combined with Brooks BioMoGo DNA and DNA LOFT these running shoes give you the right amount of cushioning with proper responsiveness.

The heel to toe drop is 12 mm with a heel height of 30 mm. Also, it comes with synthetic overlays and a traditional lace-up closure which is easy to tie or untie.

The heel collar is padded and so is the tongue. Combined with a soft inner fabric lining you will get a very smooth and comfortable in-shoe experience.

You also have the facility to remove the insole. Hence, you can use your choice of orthotics if the need be.

The upper is made from a mesh material and keeps your feet cool and dry throughout your running session.

Also, these running shoes are perfect for multisport and training.

+ POSITIVES
  •   Comfortable to work with orthotics.
  •   Crashpad for a softer landing
  •   Comfortable and lightweight
  •   Can be used for multi-sport and training
  •   Great for people with medium to high arches
  •   Responsive
  •   Breathable
 NEGATIVES
  •   Sizing is a bit off. Go 1/2 size higher 
  •   Makes squeaky sound
Editor Rating:
(4.7)
ASICS Men's GEL-Nimbus 20 Running Shoe

This is one of the best-cushioned running shoes and is very good with arch support.

If you have a high arch and narrow feet, these running shoes are ideal for you.

They will not let your feet wiggle inside the shoes and your chances of accidental ankle twist are minimal.

Also, due to its good cushioning system, your feet will remain protected and you will not feel fatigued after a long run.

buying tip: Another option that is recommended for high arches by ASICS is ASICS Dynaflyte 3.

The upper of this running shoe is made up of 100% textile. It is engineered mesh and gives you maximum breathability.

You will have a cool and dry running experience when running wearing this shoe. 

The midsole is made from ASICS proprietary FLYTEFOAM technology. This midsole is focused to give you the maximum bounce back.

So, you will get a very good energy return from these shoes and will have a good amount of responsiveness.

Also, the midsole material is actually a type of foam. This makes these running shoes very lightweight.

This is among the first shoes that use organic super fibers which are present in FLYTEFOAM. These are very strong, dense, and durable.

You will not face the issue of packing out which is very typical of foam-based midsoles.

Along with FYLTEFOAM the midsole also comes with another technology called FLUIDRIDE.

This is one of the most essential elements that keep your feet protected all the time.

Also, it enhances the cushioning and comfort of these running shoes.

Since these materials individually are very durable, the blend increases the lifespan of these running shoes.

Also, you will get a very stable experience as these runnings come with external heel clutching system.

This creates an enhanced heel fitting environment and you get a very balanced ride

+ POSITIVES
  •   Good for neutral to high arches
  •   Good breathability
  •   Good grip on the roads
  •   Lightweight and durable
  •   Good for wider feet as well
  •   Good for people with plantar fasciitis
 NEGATIVES
  •   Sole is a bit stiffer than the previous models
  •   Sizing is a bit off. Choose a wider fit if needed
Editor Rating:
(4.5)
Saucony Men's Ride 10 Running-Shoes

If you have a high arch and narrow heel area you would need a running shoe that will keep your feet more stable.

Also, it should be able to provide your feet with the required arch support as you are putting most of the pressure on your forefoot and heels.

Otherwise, you are more prone to injury and fracture especially at the ankle and the forefoot region.

Saucony Ride 10 is specially designed to do the same.

The heel counter will stabilize your foot and it has good arch support.

Upper of this running shoe is made from engineered mesh which provides your feet with a lot of breathabilities.

This also ensures that you get a more customized, dynamic and lightweight fit. Essentially the upper fit you like a glove.

The top sole is made from a specialized EVA foam called EVERUN.

As per the tests conducted by Saucony, it delivers 83% more energy return from other midsole technologies.

This gives a very resilient and responsive ride.

The outsole is made from a specialized rubber called TRI-FLEX.

Also, along with the EVERUN top sole, this outsole gives you a more increased force dispersion over a greater surface area.

This gives you optimal flexibility, traction, and protection.

It is a low drop running shoe with an offset of 8 mm from heel to toe.

This gives you a more natural running experience and is very healthy for your body.

You can use this running shoe for any kind of sports and even for HIIT. They run true to size and is best suited for road and tracks.

Also, you don’t need to break in this shoe and is good to run a marathon right out of the box.

It comes with a traditional lace-up closure. The laces slide effortlessly through the eyelets and you can get a perfect tension.

Watch this video from runner world to get a more in-depth review of this running shoe.

+ POSITIVES
  •   Great traction and responsiveness.
  •   Runs true to size
  •   Low drop for a more natural running experience.
  •   Holes on the outsole make extra room for ventilation
  •   Lightweight and breathable
  •   No break-in needed
  •   Works great with orthotics
 NEGATIVES
  •   Cushioning seems to be a bit less.
  •   May show early signs of wear and tear.
Editor Rating:
(4.5)
Brooks Womens Glycerin 16 Running Shoe

This is the second Brooks in our list. They are also great but, as per users Brooks Ghost 11 is a bit more comfortable than Glycerin 16.

Being said that, let’s check out why we selected this running shoe.

Apart from the heel stability and arch support, the upper of this running shoe is made up of 100% textile.

It is made from a new improved 3D print mesh upper and internal stretch bootie.

You will get the most comfortable and soft experience and they expand and contract with your every stride.

At the underfoot, you will have Brooks brand new DNA-LOFT cushioning. This will give you a very luxurious feel.

However, they are equally responsive and durable as their previous versions.

The forefoot also has DNA-LOFT transition zone making every heel to toe move incredibly soft and smooth.

This makes these shoes very responsive and provides yours with excellent cushioning. 

Also, this blend increases the longevity of your shoe and you will have a happy foot for a long time.

You can also use them for multiple types of run like Long Distance, Treadmill, roads, and concrete.

Also, you can use them for multisport like CrossTraining, HIIT workout, speed work, etc.

These are shoes with neutral support and has a lot of room in the toe-box.

These are also good for people who have a flat foot or suffer from plantar fasciitis.

However, you may have to use some orthotics with these shoes if you have a flat foot.

The cushioning of the midsole will make you feel like walking on the clouds.

It has a heel to toe drop of 10mm and comes with centralized lace-up closure which delivers a secure, adjustable fit.

The inside of the shoe as a smooth fabric lining which creates great wear inside of the shoe.

Also, the cushy insole is removable So, you can easily replace them with an orthotic if needed.

+ POSITIVES
  •   Very stable pair of shoes
  •   Good fit, comfortable and breathable
  •   The roomy and rounded toe box
  •   Light weight
  •   Great shoes for marathon training and speed work
  •   Can be used for multi-sport and training
 NEGATIVES
  •   Durability is a bit less.
  •   Some of the users complained about the stiffer sole.
Editor Rating:
(4.3)
Nike Men's Air Zoom Pegasus 35 Running Shoe

This is good running shoe if you need arch support and have narrow heels.

However, they are more suited for medium to the high-ish arch.

If you have a high arch, then some lacing adjustments will get you going.

It is a synthetic running shoe and is vegan approved. No part of this running shoe is made from animal parts.

On the outsole, you have highly durable rubber which provides you with a proper grip and traction.

The zoom air unit runs full-length and provides you with a smooth and responsive ride.

The heel is beveled and helps you with a smooth heel to toe transition from the moment you touchdown the ground.

You have an engineered mesh which takes up the shape of your feet giving you a glove-like fit.

Also, it comes with partial bootie which provides you with a supportive feel.

This version of Pegasus has some decent upgrades.

The bottom eyelet has been moved up to open up the forefoot flex zone.

This provides you with an optimal fit.

You not only get a comfortable in-shoe experience, but the heel collar also has been engineered to provide comfort around chilies tendon.

Also, the midsole has a lot of cushioning and you will always have very comfortable running experience.

More than 78% of people find this running shoe true to fit and is great at shock absorption.

Not only for medium to high arches, but these running shoes also give you support if you have flat feet.

However, for some, the lacing seems to be a bit problematic as they keep getting untied.

To resolve this problem, you can put a double knot and you are good to go.

They are very lightweight as the midsole is entirely made from foam-based material and you will never be bogged down by its weight.

+ POSITIVES
  •   Very stable pair of shoes
  •   Good fit, comfortable and breathable
  •   Good for people with medium to high-ish arch and flat feet
  •   Lightweight
  •   Great shoes for speed work
 NEGATIVES
  •   May make a squeaky noise
  •   Durability is a bit less
Editor Rating:
(4.0)
Altra AFM1837F Men's Torin 3.5 Road Running Shoe

The upper of this running shoe is made from mesh and synthetic material.

This makes these shoes very breathable and keeps you cool during the entire duration of running.

It comes with the traditional lace-up closure and this gives you a very comfortable and secure fit.

Also, the mesh material plays a big role in this comfortable fit as it comes with a 4-way stretch.

The shoe has a height of 7 inches and the upper has been completely revamped and integrated with a padded tongue.

Also, the breathability of the mesh has been improved so you remain cool and dry for a longer period of time.

The synthetic nubuck heel is very durable and provides you with an ample amount of support.

Also, it protects your feet from heel strikes. The midsole is the same as the previous Torin.

It provides you with proper cushioning and responsiveness. Also, being a zero-drop, there is no additional pressure on the forefoot which doesn’t let any additional foot problems like ingrown toenails or Morton’s neuroma aggravate.

+ POSITIVES
  •   Great for high arches with narrow heels
  •   Good for bunions
  •   More breathable
  •   Lightweight
 NEGATIVES
  •   Durability is a bit less.
  •   Inner compression sleeves may be a bit tight for wider feet.
Editor Rating:
(4.0)
Mizuno Women's Wave Inspire 15 Running Shoe

Upper of this shoe is made from textile and synthetic materials.

The outsole is made from rubber and gives you a very good grip on the road and concrete.

It is a low drop shoe and will give you a more natural running experience.

The heel comes with the proprietary Mizuno wave technology and gives you a very responsive ride.

It also provides you with protection against any kind of heel strike.

This is the best selling stability shoes from Mizuno and provides you with a very stable ride.

The textile material of the upper is engineered mesh. This gives you very good breathability and the material very durable.

You will also have a premium sock liner that provides you with additional comfort.

The midsole has U4ic foam which is very good for shock absorption and is very durable. It also gives you a superior ride.

+ POSITIVES
  •   Perfect for cities
  •   Good fit, comfortable and breathable
  •   Suited for multi-sport
  •   Lightweight
 NEGATIVES
  •   Sizing seems a bit off
  •   Pricier
Editor Rating:
(4.3)

If you like plush cushioning then you will love these running shoes.

Hoka’s are known for their pillowy comfort and Clifton 5 is no exception.

However, these running shoes will also help you if you have high arches and narrow heels.

The heel counter will be a snug fit for your narrow heels and will keep you stable for the entire duration of your run.

Also, the arch support provided by these running shoes is meant for people with medium to high arches.

So, even if you have a high arch you will be perfectly comfortable in these running shoes

Also, these running shoes come with early-stage meta-rocker and will help in the easy heel to toe-off.

The midsole is made from EVA foam, which is an industry-standard for cushioning for running shoes.

Also, since this material is very lightweight, these running shoes are also very lightweight.

The outsole is made from has high abrasion rubber placed at high impact locations. This makes durable as well.

+ POSITIVES
  •   Good cushioning.
  •   Good fit, comfortable and breathable
  •   Early-stage meta rocker for an easy heel to toe movement.
  •   Lightweight
  •   Good for people suffering from knee pain.
 NEGATIVES
  •   Sizing seems a bit off
  •   Pricy
Editor Rating:
(4.3)

This running shoe is way different than the previous one. While the previous one has plush cushioning, this one is more of an almost minimalist running shoe.

The midsole is made from BioMoGo DNA which is soft and cushy and provides you with a good level of comfort.

Also, this running shoe is for people with medium to high arch and the heel counter is snug for people even with narrow heels.

So, it will be perfect for you if you prefer something with less cushioning.

The heel is rounded. So, it will take away any stress from the joints and your chances of getting injured are way less in these shoes.

Also, the outsole has durable rubber placed strategically in the high impact areas.

This makes these running shoes very durable.

It is a low drop running shoe which comes with a traditional lace-up closure.

The tongue and the collar is also well padded which makes it very stable.

 

+ POSITIVES
  •   No breaking in needed.
  •   Good fit, comfortable and breathable
  •   Good for people with plantar fasciitis.
  •   Lightweight.
  •   Rounded heels put less stress on the joints.
 NEGATIVES
  •   Sizing seems a bit off
  •   For some, the support was not up to the mark.
Editor Rating:
(4.3)

This running shoe comes with a great amount of cushioning due to the new age Fresh Foam technology.

The midsole is made from a single piece of foam called fresh foam and is made after taking input from athletes.

Also, this running shoe is well suited for people with medium to high arch and your narrow heels will also stay stable in these shoes.

The outsole has blown rubber sole and this improves the life of these running shoes.

Also, due to the rubber sole, this running shoe has a very good grip which adds to the stability of this running shoe.

The upper is made from a mesh material and is great for breathability.

Also, this shoe has traditional lace-up closure. You can tie it to your desired tightness and have a very good run.

However, this running shoe is not a zero-drop running shoe and has a heel to toe drop of 8 mm.

This comes with a no-sew upper material and this makes this running shoe irritation-free.

+ POSITIVES
  •   No breaking in needed.
  •   Good fit, comfortable and breathable
  •   Very good support.
  •   Lightweight
  •   Plush cushioning.
 NEGATIVES
  •   Some did not like the heel area.
  •   Not good on wet surfaces.
Editor Rating:
(4.1)

This is one of the most affordable running shoes of the lot.

However, that doesn’t mean that they are made cheap. In fact, they are one of the most comfortable running shoes around.

Also, these running shoes are meant for people with high arches and narrow heels.

The midsole is made from synthetic material and is completely handmade.

It is cushy and will keep you very comfortable.

This running shoe has understated style, however, these are for serious performers.

They are lightweight and flexible and is suitable for multi-sport.

You can help to even train in these running shoe and will provide you with proper support from all directions.

It comes with a lace-up closure and will keep it secured to your feet no matter the distance.

Also, it has an inner sleeve which keeps the tongue right where it needs to be.

+ POSITIVES
  •   No breaking in needed.
  •   Good fit, comfortable and breathable
  •   Affordable
  •   Lightweight
  •   Runner and trainer combined.
 NEGATIVES
  •   For some, the forefoot seems to be wider.
  •   May show early signs of wear and tear.
Editor Rating:
(4.0)

This is a very rugged and durable shoe and will last long.

Also, this is a very affordable running shoe and will not burn a hole in your pocket.

It comes with high arch support and will support narrow heels.

So, it will be perfect for you and you will not face heel slipping or wobbly during the run.

The midsole is made from EVA foam and this makes this running shoe very breathable.

Also, the outsole has blown rubber placed strategically at high impact places to improve the durability of the shoe.

The forefoot of this running shoe is roomy and you will remain comfortable in your entire duration of the run.

The upper has a printed pattern and this makes this running she loon very stylish.

 It is a low drop shoe with a drop of 3 mm and will provide you a very natural running experience.

 

+ POSITIVES
  •   No breaking in needed.
  •   Good fit, comfortable and breathable
  •   Affordable
  •   Lightweight
  •   Wide toe-box
  •   Plush cushioning
 NEGATIVES
  •   Runs half a size small.
  •   Shallow toe-box.

Buyers’ Guide

Buying a running shoes is a very personal experience for any runner.

It is exciting as well as complicated and many runners always want to have it easier.

But alas, there is none.

Above we have reviewed a lot of running shoes for runners who have high arches and narrow heels.

You have got a very unique feet and some unique challenges.

This comprehensive buying guide will help you to make the perfect decision.

Guidelines:

Although some runners want to go for affordable options.

We found that, in almost all the cases, the materials used in those shoes are cheap and does last long.

Also, they don’t hold the shape properly with regular usage and will fall apart in a very duration of time and also, your chances of getting hurt is more.

With these in mind, here are some general guidelines while selecting your running shoe:

Price range: Go for a running shoe which costs at least $50. However, don’t go over $130. Any price in excess of this will not bring you much of extra comfort and it will be a waste of money.

Old is gold: Don’t be so skeptic. 😉 I mean carry your old running shoe while going to the shoe shop. It can provide a lot of information. The ‘experts’ in the shop can deduce a lot about your feet from the wear patterns. This will result in a better fit and you will not end up wasting money.

Go shopping in the evening: Your feet swells in the evening after the entire day’s work. So going for a shoe fitting at that time will help you to get a better shoe which will fit throughout the day.

Climatic condition:If you live in a region where the weather is mostly wet, you should go for a running shoe which will not slip on wet surfaces. Also, it should be at least water repellent.

Terrain: Apart from climatic conditions the running surface also matters. So, decide on where you will be running (mostly) and select your running shoe accordingly. Also, you can select multiple shoes based on your requirements.

Running shoe features for runners with high arches and narrow heels

Snug Heels

When selecting a running shoe,check if the heel fitting is snug or not.

Since you have a narrow heel, many times you will find that, the heel moves around.

This will increase your chances of getting injured and getting a twisted ankle is the most common.

Roomy toe box

We are not talking about a wide toe-box. The toe box should be roomy which means, you should have plenty of wiggle room.

Since for cavus feet, most of the pressure is on fore foot and heel, those area tend to spread more.

Also, due to the nature of the foot, the toe box should have a decent height. Otherwise there will be too much chaffing and blisters.

Go for a neutral shoe

Well though not always, cavus feet will have underpronation or supination.

This means your feet tend to roll outwards to maintain balance.

Most experts suggests that, for these kind of feet, a neutral running shoe is the best.

Cushioning for heel and forefoot

For a flatfooted or a low arched runner, running shoes will have a lot of arch support.

As mentioned earlier, your heels and your forefeet will provide you with most support.

Also, your ankle joint is stiffer than others and this makes it less impact absorbent.

So, the cushioning at your forefeet and heels should be more.

If you observe, all the running shoes provided above have this kind of a cushioning.

Stability

Your ankle joint is not as flexible. So, it will not be able to absorb any kind of impact from running.

So, your chances of twisting or suffering any kind of other injuries to your ankle will be more.

It best to wear running shoes with a lot of stability.

Simply put, wear running shoes with a lot of cushioning at the collar and the tongue.

This will stabilize your ankle joint and will minimize your chances of getting injured.

Comfort

You may get the priciest running shoe that money can buy.

However, if it is not comfortable, it is of no use. After the first use, you will end up searching for a new pair of running shoes.

So, comfort will go a long way. It is best to try on running shoes, before making a money commitment.

If you are not comfortable, move on to the next pair.

Durability 

Don’t expect to us to say that durability means, lasting for years.

On the contrary.

Durability mean, your running shoe should not fall apart before it supposed to which is somewhere around 300-500 miles.

Here is a quick reference to determine if your shoe needs to be replaced or not.

Choose the right shoes for your feet July 2018

Weight

Needless to say but we will say it anyway 😀

Running shoes with more weight will significantly impact your speed.

So, you must never choose a running shoes which are heavy.

And by heavy we mean greater than 9.5 ounces or 270 grams.

Well, this is the ideal case, you don’t always get the ideal weight.

But you get the idea and now you will be able to compare it with your would-be running shoe.

Breathability 

Germs multiply in a warm and wet environment.

So, a running shoe with good breathability will keep the in-shoe environment healthy.

This also means that you will have lesser events involving fungus and blisters.

Waterproofing

If you live in an area where there is frequent snow or rain, you need a running shoe which is waterproof.

Conclusion

People who have a high arch and narrow feet face their own set of challenges.

They are more prone to injury and stress fractures.

Also, have a hard time finding a running shoe that will fit personal needs.

In the above list, you will find the best running shoes for high arches and narrow feet in [current_year].

Although I find Brooks Ghost 13 to the perfect fit for this category, others are also very supportive of your feet.

You can try out any of the above or feel free to do your own research. 

Madhusree Basu

Madhusree Basu

Author, Admin

Blogger and a fitness enthusiast. She loves running and Yoga and everything in between. She started running to manage her weight and to eat to her heart’s content. A true foodie at heart she shares whatever knowledge she has gained throughout the years about weight management and fitness.