We’ve Tested Over 70 Pairs of Running Shoes, And These 13 Are Best for Arch Support (2024)

A roomy toe box, zero blisters or fit pain, and the perfect level of support and cushioning–it truly was love at first stride with the Brooks Glycerin GTS 20. Like any of the brand’s shoes with “GTS” in the name, this model features “go-to-support” (think of it like bumpers in a bowling lane), delivering just-enough guidance for people with slight pronation issues. They perfectly sculpted our medium arches, supporting long hours of wear without any fatigue or pain. Our feet felt like they were running in a dream, mile after mile.

Sizes: 5-12 | Colors: 7 | Widths: Medium (1B), Wide (1D) | Heel-to-Toe Drop: 10mm

If we had to pick a single shoe for all our training, it would be the Asics Novablast 3. With its snappy responsiveness and supportive heel design, we originally planned on using this neutral shoe for tempo runs only. But thanks to its bouncy, featherlight midsole cushioning, running just feels easier, and we find ourselves pulling them out for everything from easy runs to speed workouts, long runs to recovery walks.

Sizes: 5-12 | Colors: 19 | Widths: Standard | Heel-to-Toe Drop: 8mm

Putting the On Running Cloudrunner on for the first time, it feels like your feet have been checked into a spa. While previous styles from this brand have felt a bit firm underfoot, the Cloudrunner feels like a plush cocoon–immediately alleviating all the pressure on your feet and knees. But you won’t just sink or sludge through every step from all the pillowy cushioning: They have just-enough stability and responsiveness to deliver a nice bounce and help propel you forward when running.

Sizes: 5-11 | Colors: 7 | Widths: Regular, Wide | Heel-to-Toe Drop: 9mm

Designed as a race shoe (ideal for chasing PRs in your next half marathon or marathon), the featherlight New Balance FuelCell SuperComp Elite v3 can also be used in training to help you go the distance. Thanks to the carbon plate, these shoes recoil like a spring each time your foot hits the ground, exploding with a boost of extra energy return on every push off. The result: You’ll feel your pace improve without any extra effort on your part. Best of all, the feeling underfoot is very soft and pillowy, leaving your feet with zero aches or complaints post-run.

“I did what any runner knows better than to do, and I wore these for the first time on a 14-mile training run,” says Kristen Geil, senior commerce editor. “The energy return was unreal, even once I hit double digits, and the muscles in my feet felt free of fatigue after my run. I love these for half or full marathons.”

Sizes: 5-12 | Colors: 1 | Widths: Standard, Wide | Heel-to-Toe Drop: 4mm

Lightweight and built to move, the streamlined Brooks Launch GTS 10 will help you comfortably pick up the pace. The heel is intentionally designed to pull the collar away from your achilles to help avoid rubbing and irritation. The brand’s GuideRails technology adds a subtle touch of support, which can be especially helpful as the tiring miles wear on. For mild pronators with medium to high arches, this shoe conforms to your foot and running style for a fit that truly feels like it was made for you.

Sizes: 5-12 | Colors: 3 | Widths: Medium (1B), Wide (1D) | Heel-to-Toe Drop: 10mm

We were a bit surprised by just how comfortable and soft the Nike Invincible 3 were when we first put them on. Over time, we were amazed by how they seemed to conform to your exact foot shape for an ideal fit. Runners with medium to high arches will love the ample cushioning that gently–yet fully–supports your arches. (We especially noticed the cushioning wrapping the middle and bottom of our arch, leaving no gaps or space.) But unlike some extra-plush rides, this one felt springy and light, helping you pop into your next step with ease and quickness. This really is an easy, enjoyable–and super comfortable–ride.

Sizes: 5-12 | Colors: 7 | Widths: Regular, Wide | Heel-to-Toe Drop: 9mm

The biggest compliment we have for a sneaker? We don’t even notice them when we’re running. Mile after mile, these stability shoes inconspicuously support and soothe–leaving you to simply focus on you and the road ahead. The “H-frame” technology in the Hoka Gaviota 5 creates a slightly wider base in the toe and heel for boosted stability, while a softer midsole foam delivers plenty of plush cushioning. The combination is a dream come true for runners, especially ones with achy knees and joints.

Sizes: 5-12 | Colors: 5 | Widths: Regular, Wide | Heel-to-Toe Drop: 6mm

When you’re running on uneven terrain like trails, less can actually be more. Too much cushioning can make you feel wobbly, too much support can feel awkward. While the Brooks Cascadia 17 is technically a neutral shoe, it’s a great fit for a wide range of arches thanks to the stability built through intentional design. You’ll notice a protective plate within the shoe that delivers a nice stiffness, while strategically-placed outsole pods give you a really secure base. Combined with an extra-sticky rubber outsole, this shoe will make you excited to explore the paths less traveled.

Sizes: 5-12 | Colors: 5 | Widths: Medium (1B), Wide (1D) | Heel-to-Toe Drop: 8mm

Ideal for people with wide feet who need adequate arch support, the Hoka Arahi 6 are built for stability and perform up to the challenge. The sole has nice rounding to it, which delivers a smooth transition between strides, while your heel remains secure no matter the type of run. We didn't feel the effects of our heel striking nearly as much as we do in many other shoes, and we could even feel them helping to even out our subtle supination during longer outings. Opt for the wide width and delight in no tingling, no toe jamming, no blisters. (We could easily tap our toes up and down inside our shoe without feeling like they were constricted like we’re used to in narrower fits.)

Sizes: 5-12 | Colors: 13 | Widths: Regular, Wide | Heel-to-Toe Drop: 5mm

As Brooks’ best-selling shoe, the Brooks Ghost 15 is loved by runners for its smooth ride, neutral support, and outstanding range of 46 colors and 4 different widths. But what makes this truly special is its environmental footprint. As the brand's first carbon-neutral product, nearly a quarter of the total shoe weight is from recycled materials. While the commitment to the environment is admirable, what’s even more impressive is how the shoe’s comfort continues to keep getting even better year after year.

Sizes: 5-12 | Colors: 46 | Widths: Medium (1B), Wide (1D), Narrow (2A), Extra Wide (2E) | Heel-to-Toe Drop: 12mm

If aches and pains have kept you from running in the past, the MBT MTR-1500 II are worth a shot. From the point your heel first hits the ground until your toes leave it, the rocker sole matches the natural movement of your foot. That gentle roll promotes a natural cushioning and support to your feet, while creating the ideal transition to reduce aches and pains. You’ll feel plenty of cushioning in the heel, and so much support through every step. If you’re new to running or trying to get back into it, these are an ideal training partner.

Sizes: 5-11 | Colors: 5 | Widths: Medium

If you have flat feet or overpronate, don’t be surprised if you try the Brooks Ariel GTS 23 and never look back. The structured stiffness and wide base deliver outstanding stability to help alleviate common aches and pains. But where it really shines is its ability to blend soft cushioning without losing an ounce of support. Bonus: Their generous fit makes them easy to pair with custom orthotics. Say goodbye to foot pain!

Sizes: 6-13 | Colors: 3 | Widths: Medium (1B), Wide (1D), Extra Wide (2E) | Heel-to-Toe Drop: 12mm

Sometimes, arch pain is the least of your worries. Runners with knee and back pain, plantar fasciitis, arthritis, and more have all noted a vast improvement from switching to the MBT Huracan 3000. Their careful construction is designed for maximum protection against ground forces, while their rounded sole helps stabilize and support your foot for smoother, faster turnover with every step. Whether you're running, walking, or standing all day on your feet, these shoes will not only support your arches but also deliver plenty of cushioned support to your entire foot.

Sizes: 5-12 | Colors: 5 | Widths: Medium

Frequently Asked Questions

• Are running shoes with arch support the same as stability shoes?

  “No, a running shoe with an arch support is not the same as a stability shoe or motion-control shoe,” says Levin Valencia. Arch support is found in the midsole of the shoe. That midsole support is available across nearly every style and category of running shoe, typically characterized in three different levels: neutral, stability, and motion control. Stability or motion-control shoes are specifically designed to offer the support needed for overpronation. While the lines between the two categories are often blurred, experts suggest looking at stability running shoes if you have flexible flat feet and low arches (mild overpronation); people with rigid flat feet or severe overpronation will likely benefit more from motion-control shoes.

• Does wearing insoles help with arch support?

  “Many insoles have arch supports in them, so the short answer is yes,” says Levin Valencia. “However not all arch supports are right for everyone.” Over the counter insoles can target heel, arch, or metatarsal support. These are typically more like a shoe liner and usually offer a bit more padding than your shoe provides. If you’re looking for insoles to specifically address arch support, make sure to get them custom. Research suggests custom-fitted arch support orthotics can help improve pain relief and function for people with high arches.