Best running shoes for high arches in 2025?

High arches can be a real pain—literally. I’ve dealt with them for years, and the Brooks Ghost has been my go-to. The cushioning is solid, and the arch support is actually decent for a stock shoe. Hoka’s Bondi line is also great if you want something with more padding, but they can feel a bit bulky for faster runs.

As for orthotics, I’d say try the shoes first. Modern running shoes have come a long way, and unless your arches are extremely severe, a good pair might be enough. That said, if you’re still in pain after a few weeks, don’t waste time—get custom orthotics. They’re pricey but worth it if you’re serious about running.

Also, don’t forget to replace your shoes every 300-500 miles. Worn-out cushioning is a silent killer for high arches. And for god’s sake, avoid minimalist shoes—they’ll wreck you.

I’ll second the Brooks Ghost recommendation—it’s been a lifesaver for my high arches too. The arch support is noticeable but not overbearing, and the cushioning holds up well over long distances. That said, I’ve also had good luck with the Hoka Arahi for stability; it’s lighter than the Bondi but still supportive. If you’re doing serious mileage, though, the Bondi’s max cushioning might be worth the bulk.

As for orthotics, I’d echo what Adrian said: try the shoes first, but don’t suffer through pain. I wasted months thinking I just needed to "break in" a pair, only to end up with plantar fasciitis. If you’re still hurting after a few runs, see a podiatrist. Custom orthotics aren’t cheap, but neither is physical therapy.

And yes, replace your shoes religiously! I track my miles in an app now because I kept pushing shoes past their limit. Also, if you’re not already, do some foot-strengthening exercises—high arches often mean weak intrinsic muscles, and that can contribute to pain. A physical therapist can give you a good routine.

(And for the love of all things holy, stay away from those trendy "barefoot" shoes. They’re a scam for people like us.)

I've followed a similar path in searching for the ideal shoe for high arches. In my experience, the Brooks Ghost remains a consistent performer thanks to its reliable cushioning and natural support. The Hoka options also seem promising, especially if you value a plush ride, but I’d lean toward something like the Hoka Arahi for stability without the bulk. Modern shoe technology has indeed made significant progress, so I'd suggest testing the built-in support first. That said, if you still experience discomfort after a few weeks, investing in custom orthotics could be a game-changer. It’s also crucial to remember mileage tracking and regular replacement; worn-out cushioning is not something to disregard. Lastly, try complementing your routine with foot-strengthening exercises. I've seen too many runners neglect that aspect, and it really makes a difference in managing high arches over the long run. Good luck and keep us posted on your progress!

I can’t stress enough how important it is to listen to your feet early on. I once stubbornly pushed a pair of shoes past their prime—thinking I’d “tough it out”—and ended up sidelined with a nasty stress fracture. Brooks Ghost is a solid choice; its balance of cushioning and support feels like it was made for high arches. That said, the Hoka Arahi surprised me with its stability without feeling like I was running in bricks.

Regarding orthotics, they’re not just a luxury. If you’re still feeling pain after a couple of weeks, don’t hesitate. Custom orthotics saved my running career when nothing else did. They’re an investment, yes, but way cheaper than quitting running altogether due to injury.

Oh, and please, ditch the minimalist shoe fantasy if you have high arches. It’s a one-way ticket to pain city. Also, foot-strengthening exercises are a game changer—stretching alone won’t cut it. High arches often mean your foot muscles aren’t doing their job, and you’ll pay the price if you ignore that.

I'm glad to see so many insightful comments already. I've been running with high arches for years, and I must say that both Brooks and Hoka have been game-changers for me. The Brooks Ghost is indeed a great choice, offering a nice balance between cushioning and support. However, I've found that the Hoka Clifton edges it out in terms of pure comfort over long distances. That said, if you're looking for a bit more stability, the Hoka Arahi is an excellent option - it's like the Clifton but with added support.

On the topic of orthotics, I agree that it's worth trying the shoes first, but don't hesitate to consult a podiatrist if the pain persists. Custom orthotics can be a significant investment, but it's nothing compared to the cost of dealing with chronic injuries. And let's not forget the importance of foot-strengthening exercises - it's something I wish I'd started doing sooner. Anyone have recommendations for good exercises or routines to share?

@jacksonhughes49 Thanks so much for your detailed input! I’ve been eyeing the Hoka Clifton and Arahi, so your comparison is super helpful—especially the note about stability. I’ll definitely check out both. And you’re absolutely right about foot exercises; I’ve been slacking on that front. Do you have any go-to routines? I’ve heard toe yoga and calf raises are good, but I’d love more specifics. Also, did you find orthotics necessary, or did the right shoes alone do the trick? Really appreciate your insights!

Oh man, foot exercises are so underrated! I swear by towel scrunches—just lay a towel flat and try to scrunch it toward you with just your toes. It feels silly at first, but it strengthens those tiny arch muscles like nothing else. For high arches, I also do marble pickups (exactly what it sounds like) and single-leg balance drills while brushing my teeth.

As for shoes vs. orthotics, I went full Hoka Clifton first and added Superfeet greens later when I upped my mileage. That combo worked magic for me, but everyone's feet are weirdly different. If you go the orthotic route, get fitted properly—those generic drugstore ones are trash.

Side note: The Arahi made my feet feel like they were in a supportive hug, but the Clifton let me feel the road more (which I weirdly like?). Try both if you can!

@greysonmartinez, I totally resonate with your take on foot exercises - they're a game-changer! I've been doing toe curls and marble pickups for a while now, and it's amazing how much of a difference they've made in my runs. I also appreciate your honesty about orthotics; I've been hesitant to try them, but it sounds like they can be worth the investment if you're properly fitted. I'm intrigued by your experience with the Hoka Clifton and Superfeet greens - did you notice a significant difference when you added the orthotics? I'm still on the fence between the Clifton and Arahi; I'm drawn to the extra support of the Arahi, but I love the feel of the road with the Clifton. Have you tried running with minimalist shoes at all? I'm curious to know how they compare to your Hoka experience.