[aff_disclosure]

For road running, I recommend Brooks Women’s Ghost 13 running shoe as the best running shoes for women with high arches in [current_year].

However, if you are venturing out on the trails, Salomon Women’s XR Mission running shoe is the best.

If you want to know your options then this list of running shoes for high arches will definitely help you out.

Also, don’t forget to checkout the FAQ section. It has a lot of information for runners who have high arches.

Our Top Picks For Today

For Roads:

Brooks Women’s Ghost 13

“Great cushioning and exceptional support.”

For Trails:

Salomon Women’s XR Mission

“Aggressive lugs with QUICKLACE system for easy wearing.”

Best Running Shoes for Women with High Arches

Editor Rating:
(4.8)

If you have a high arch you then are prone to a lot of feet problems like Metatarsalgia, Lateral ankle instability, often causing twisting, tripping, and sprains.

Also, you may face problems like Hammertoes or claw toes, Plantar fasciitis, Calluses on the ball, side, or heel of the foot.

Along with that, you may also have knee, hip, and low back pain.

In such cases, you will need to have a running shoe that provides you with arch support, proper cushioning, and stability.

Brooks Ghost 13 is designed to provide you with all these comforts to provide you with the best running experience.

It is a very lightweight running shoe which helps you in an easy heel to toe transition to make your running as effortless as possible.

The rubber sole gives you a very good grip on the roads and you will have a very balanced and stable ride.

The upper is made from engineered mesh and provides you with improved breathability and proper stretch.

This not only gives you a custom fit but also keeps your feet cool and dry.
It is a medium drop shoe with a heel to toe drop of around 12 mm and a heel height of 30 mm.
The lightweight synthetic overlays gives you additional support and it comes with a traditional lace-up closure.
Now the tongue and collar comes with additional padding and provides you with a lot of comfort around the heel and Achilles zone.
The inner soft fabric lining of the running shoe gives you a great in-shoe feel.

Also, if you need to use orthotics, the insole can be removed and replaced with it.

BioMoGo DNA is a blend of earth-friendly BioMoGo and responsive Brooks DNA.

It has a gender-friendly cushioning design providing you with a very responsive ride.

+ POSITIVES
  •   Comfortable to work with orthotics.
  •   Wider toe-box
  •   Comfortable and lightweight
  •   Can be used for multi-sport.
  •   No break in needed
  •   Good support for people with medium to high arch
  •   Provides proper stability in the heel and Achilles zone.
  •   Good for people with plantar fasciitis.
 NEGATIVES
  •   Tighter than previous models
  •   Some felt the quality is not as good as its previous models
Editor Rating:
(4.7)
Salomon Women's XR Mission Running Shoe

Salomon XR is a lightweight running shoe which provides you with a lot of stability and comfort.

It is suited for roads as well as trails and can grip muddy and wet surfaces properly, thanks to its aggressive lugs and the Contagrip out-sole.

The flexibility of the running shoe comes from Sensifit and Sensiflex technologies.

Hence every time you get a perfect ride for short to middle distance runs.

The upper is made from breathable mesh to keep your feet cool and dry.

This lightweight running shoe has molded EVA midsole to provide you with proper cushioning and support.

Also, this is the reason why this running shoe is so lightweight.

To give you a more secure and precise fit this running shoe comes with Salomon’s Sensifit technology.

This not only cradles the upper instep but also promote natural rolling motion.

Since yo foot expands during running, the Sensiflex construction offers both lateral support and stretch.

Also, the oversized tendon provides you with a smooth heel to toe-off with energy return.

The footbed has a cushioning foam to reduce friction. This keeps your feet very comfortable when you run.

This is very helpful for people with high arches as they are more prone to calluses, hammertoes, and plantar fasciitis.

The EVA foam in the heel protects your heels from heel strike.

It comes with Salomon’s proprietary Quicklace system and can be tightened with one pull.

This gives you a customized fit. Also, it comes with a lace pocket which keeps the laces secure and out of your way while running.

It has proper arch support which is essential for people with high arches. Also, you can replace the insole with orthotics if needed.

+ POSITIVES
  •   Works good with orthotics
  •   Made from quick dry material
  •   Good grip even on wet and muddy terrain
  •   Comfortable even for bigger feet sizes
  •   Lightweight
 NEGATIVES
  •   Some felt the quality is not at per its earlier models
  •   Heel area appears to be a bit tight
Editor Rating:
(4.5)
ASICS Women'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: ASICS also recommend ASICS Dynaflyte 3 for high arches.
You can also check out that option as well.

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 medium to high arches
  •   Good breathability
  •   Good for multi-sport like cross training and walking
  •   Lightweight and durable
  •   Stylish
  •   Good for people with plantar fasciitis
  •   Good grip on the roads and concrete
 NEGATIVES
  •   Sizing is a bit off. Choose a wider fit if needed
  •   Sole is a bit stiffer than the previous models
Editor Rating:
(4.5)
HOKA ONE ONE Women's Clifton 5 Running Shoe

This Clifton 5 is light, cushy, and very fast.

The primary materials of this running shoe are synthetic and leather.

The mid-sole has HOKA ONE ONE’s famed geometry and is made up of full EVA foam which is very durable.

This is the main component for the cushioning of this running shoe.

EVA foam is a shock-absorbing foam and it will not pack out under pressure.

Also, this is the main reason why this running shoe is so lightweight.

The forefoot is adaptive and gives a very comfortable experience.

Also, the forefoot cushioning is great for problems like ingrown toenails, Morton’s neuroma, or Sesamoiditis.

The upper is made of clean engineered mesh which is very breathable.

Also, since the upper takes the shape of your feet, you will have a supportive and customized fit.

This running shoe will support people with medium to high arches and has neutral stability.

It has a low heel-to-toe drop of 5 mm.

So, you get a very natural running experience in these running shoes.

Also, it has a moderate heel bevel which allows a smooth heel to toe transition.

The early stage Meta rocker technology provides you with a smooth ride and responsive ride.

The outer sole is made of durable rubber and can withstand a lot of wear and tear.

Since these running shoes are specifically made for high arches, you will not have to use any inserts with them.

But if there is a need, you have the flexibility to replace it with your chosen orthotics.

It runs true to size and is specifically suited for road running.

+ POSITIVES
  •   Good for runners with plantar fasciitis, neuroma or bunion
  •   Gives you a pillowy feel
  •   Made for high arches
  •   Light weight
  •   Good for long distance running
  •   Neutral running shoes
 NEGATIVES
  •   Durability is a bit less
  •   Little narrow and small in the toe box
Editor Rating:
(4.3)
New Balance Women's 1080v9 Fresh Foam Running Shoe

A major portion of this running shoe is made from textile.

It comes with a rubber sole which stretches in all directions.

This gives you a very firm and stable grip on the roads.

It is a low drop shoe which gives you a natural running experience.

The mid-sole is made from New Balance’s proprietary Fresh foam.

This lightweight foam runs the entire length of this running shoe and will give you super comfort and support.

Also, this is the reason that this shoe is lightweight.

The premium double jacquard upper is made from Engineered mesh.

This makes these running shoes very breathable and gives you a customized fit.

These running shoes are True to size and you will not struggle with the fit.

The insoles it comes with is removable and you can use your favorite orthotics if needed.

They will provide support for medium to high arch and are neutral running shoes.

Also, they are very comfortable to wear all day long.

+ POSITIVES
  •   Very stable pair of shoes
  •   Good fit, comfortable and breathable
  •   Roomy toe box
  •   Lightweight
  •   High quality make
  •   Supports medium to high arches
 NEGATIVES
  •   Cushioning is a bit less
  •   Sole may feel a bit inflexible
Editor Rating:
(4.0)
Mizuno Women's Wave Sky 2 Running Shoe

These are 100% Synthetic shoes and are meant to support medium to high arches.

The rubber sole is very durable and stretches in all directions.

This provides you with a very firm and supportive grip of the ground underneath.

These running shoes are good for roads and concrete and always gives you a very stable ride.

It is a low drop shoe and provides you with a natural running experience.

This particular Mizuno comes with Aerohug engineered fit.

The shoe, especially the upper moves with your foot while running.

To give you a softer landing experience, this running shoe comes with independent decoupling in the heel.

As with all the Mizuno Wave series, this running shoe also comes with the proven plush Cloudwave Platform.

This gives you a smooth and responsive ride.

The engineered mesh upper gives you a customized fit.

This also makes this shoe very breathable keeping your feet moisture-free during running.

+ POSITIVES
  •   Perfect for cities
  •   Good fit, comfortable and breathable
  •   Suited for multi-sport
  •   Lightweight
  •   Good for medium to high arch
 NEGATIVES
  •   Sizing seems a bit off
  •   Pricier

Best lightweight running shoes with arch support

When you have a high arch, many times your feet are not as flexible.

This puts a lot of stress on your metatarsals and ankles.

If your shoes are heavy then you will be adding more stress to your already stressed joints.

On the other hand if you wear some shock absorbing lightweight running shoes, your joint will be more at ease.

Here are couple of running shoes that are lightweight and will absorb a lot of shock.

  1. Brooks Glycerin 17 – Incredible flexibility, durability and responsiveness.
  2. Asics Gel-Venture 6 – Trail runner with rear-foot Gel cushioning.
  3. Hoka One One Clifton 5 – Pillowy cushioning for neural runners.
  4. Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 35 – Premium Cushlon ST foam for ultimate cushioning.
  5. Saucony Guide ISO – EVERUN topsole for additional cushioning.

CHECK OUT 2 MORE RUNNING SHOES HERE!

Best barefoot shoes for high arches

In the picture:
Merrell Men’s Trail Glove 4 Runner
7 more color options – get more info:
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07D5PXNHH

Barefoot running has many benefits. This is what our forefathers were used to since the beginning.

However, as civilizations changed, we are now more prone to accept all the new things that comes our way.

Sometimes, old is the best. 

However, due to sharp objects in the tracks or the roads, you may get injured very easily.

So, wear something bare minimal to keep your feet protected.

Here are some decent options for you to give you the barefoot experience you have craved for.

Best High Arch Trail Running Shoes

Barefoot running has many benefits. This is what our forefathers were used to since the beginning.

However, as civilizations changed, we are now more prone to accept all the new things that comes our way.

Sometimes, old is the best. 

However, due to sharp objects in the tracks or the roads, you may get injured very easily.

So, wear something bare minimal to keep your feet protected.

Here are some decent options for you to give you the barefoot experience you have craved for.

  1. Asics Gel-Venture 6 – Lightweight, affordable and great for high arches.
  2. Altra Lone Peak 4.0 – Zero Drop, Trail Claw, Fit4Her, StoneGuard, MaxTra, Abound, GaiterTrap, Foot Shape.
  3. La Sportiva Bushido IIFriXion XT V-Groove2 for super grip and slip-on construction for easy wearing. 

Best High Arch Cushioned Running Shoes

If you are uncomfortable while running, mostly your run will end in an injury.

And most of the time, this uneasiness is related to less or improper cushioning.

If your shoe is well cushioned you will not feel the miles pass by.

Here are some great running shoes which will provide you with great cushioning and comfort.

  1. New Balance 1080v9 – Fresh Foam Cushioning for adaptive comfort and responsiveness.
  2. Brooks Ghost 13 – BioMoGo DNA for ultimate cushioning and comfort.
  3. Hoka One One Graviota 2 – Plush cushioning and good stability.
  4. Hoka One One Clifton 5 – Feels like running on clouds 

Best Training Shoes For High Arches

Running shoes most of the times has good amount of cushioning.

However, due to this cushioning they are softer and will squish out under intense training  in the gym.

You need a firmer sole that can hold your and the equipment weights.

Here are some good training shoes, if you have high arches.

ASICS Gel-DS Trainer 21 – I.G.S system with forefoot and rear-foot gel cushioning.

Brooks Launch 6 – Dual purpose shoe which can be used for both running and training.

Nike Lunarglide 9 – Lunarlon foam provides a very cushy experience. 

ASICS GEL-190 TR – Rear foot gel cushioning and DuoMax support system for best shock absorption

FAQs

Q. What is a high arched or cavus foot?

If you have a high arch or cavus feet, the distance between the curve of your feet and the ground is very high.

Due to this, when you are walking or standing, all your body weight will be placed on the balls of your feet and your heel.

It can cause various kinds of problems like:

  • Metatarsalgia
  • Lateral ankle instability
  • Hammertoes or claw toes
  • Plantar fasciitis
  • Calluses on the ball, side, or heel of the foot.
  • Knee, hip, and low back pain.

You can develop this feet condition at any age and one or both of your feet can be affected.

 

High-Arch-Resource

Image curtsy Tread Labs

 

Q. Do I have a high arch?

Most of the times this is obvious to the open eye.

However, if you are not sure, do a wet water test.

Pour some water on your feet.

Place a colored paper on the ground.

Put your feet on it.

Lift your feet from the paper.

If you see only the print of your forefoot and your heel.

Also, there should be no/thin connection between these zones.

If you get such an impression, then you have a high arched feet.

Choose the right shoes for your feet July 2018

Q. Are high arches good for running?

Not really. Anything which is not normal with your body will cause you some sort of discomfort.

If you have a high arch, then running can be difficult and painful.

You need to have a good arch support, if you want to run with high arches.

Q. Do people with high arches need lots of arch support?

This depends on the height of your arch.

But whatever is the case, if you have a high arch then you need to have some sort of arch support.

Your shoes can provide that or you have to take help from orthotics. 

Q. Are barefoot shoes good for high arches?

Barefoot running has many benefits and is proven to strengthen your feet.

It is definitely beneficial for high arches. However, running outside with barefoot can cause you injury.

It is better to use a running shoe which is minimalist. You have two types to choose from.

One is with bare minimum cushioning like Merrell Men’s Vapor Glove 3 Trail Runner or which resembles your feet like Vibram Five Fingers

Whatever you choose, see to it that you have plenty of cushioning under the balls of your feet, your arc, and your heels. 

Q. Are you born with high arches?

Though many time high arches are hereditary, you may not be born with it.

As your age progresses, you may develop high arches.

Here is some common reason:

  • Heredity
  • Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease (CMT) 
  • Post-stroke paralysis
  • Spina bifida
  • Cerebral palsy
  • Clubfoot
  • Poliomyelitis
  • Muscular Dystrophy

Q. What are the best running shoes for women with high arches?

The running shoes that are listed above are the best running shoes for women with high arches.

Not only they have had excellent support for high arches but also are anatomically suitable for women.

Also, they will provide you with the best possible:

  • High arch support
  • Comfort
  • Cushioning
  • Stability
  • Shock absorption

Q. Which Asics shoes are best for women with high arches?

If you are specifically looking for ASICS shoes for women with high arches then you can go for any of the below ones:

  • Asics Gel venture
  • Asics Gel Nimbus
  • Asics Gel DS Trainer

All of the have very good high arch support.

And if you are looking for durability and affordability, then ASICS Gel-Venture will be the best.

    Q. Do high arches need support?

    Yes, high arches need support.

    In general, there is no problem in day to day activities.

    However, you may face metatarsalgia or foot pain.

    Also, high arched people generally have stiffer ankle joints.

    This makes them poor at shock absorption.

    If you have high arch support, the foot pain will be relieved and also the overall functionality of your feet will be improved.

    Q. Which Brooks running shoe for women has the best arch support?

    Brooks Ghost for women has the best arch support.

    However, this is completely based on my experience. 

    There are runners who swear by Brooks Glycerin.

    What I found is, Ghost provides a firmness that the other one doesn’t have.

    And I like it more because of that.

    In a way, it will be completely your choice based on what you like and dislike.

    Q. Are New Balance shoes good for women with high arches?

    Not all New Balance Shoes are good for women with high arches.

    However, New Balance 1080 is great for women with high arches.

    Why?

    First of all, the support for high arches is excellent.

    Also, the single foam midsole platform is excellent for shock absorption and cushioning.

    Both of these are required for runners with high arches.

    Q. What is the best insole for high arches?

    Tread Labs Stride Insoles are hands down the best insole for high arches.

    They are available for any type of arch. Even if you have a super high arch, these supports will surely help you out.

    Q. What Type of Shoes Should Women with High Arches Avoid?

    If you are a high arched woman, avoid running shoes which are meant for people with feet.

    In general, you should avoid running shoes from stability and motion control group.

    Their arch is too low for your feet and it will only make your feet pain more.

    Conclusion

    If you are a woman with high arches, then running may be very challenging for you.

    Due the very nature of the arches, all your body weight falls on balls of your feet and heels.

    So, if you decide to run with your high arches then Brooks Women’s Ghost 13 Running Shoe is the best running shoes to go after.

    Also, check the other options for best running shoes for women with high arches in 2020 or feel free to do your own research.

    However, always select a running shoe with ample arch support. Your chances of getting injured will be minimized. 

    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.