If you are flat footed, suffer from shin splints, have a high arch, or perhaps have ankle mobility issues, then you may benefit from running shoes which offer arch support. In this article, we will be showcasing five of the best running shoes with arch support that are currently available to purchase. We will also be talking about what to look for in an arch support running shoe, and what they can offer you as a runner.
The Importance of Arch Support Running Shoes
There are many reasons why you may need running shoes with arch support. Most of these are due to injuries or mobility issues that you may already be dealing with. Sadly, the idea that arch support running shoes can prevent injuries and mobility issues has so far not been proven by science. Here are some common issues that arch support running shoes can help with:
- Flat feet
- Ankle mobility issues
- Shin splints
- Overpronation
- High arches
The reason why arch supported running shoes are so popular is that they can help people with the above issues to run without pain. They can also help people to run comfortably and perform better in races and sports.
Runners who wear arch support running shoes may see an improvement in energy transfer, making their runs more efficient and allowing them to run faster or for longer. The improved cushioning and stability can also help to mitigate the pain of longer distance runs.
If you have none of the above issues, then an arch support running shoe may not be for you. But many people do. If you are one of them, then check out the five best running shoes with arch support we look at below.
What to Look for in Arch Support Running Shoes?
There are five factors that we will be looking for when analysing these arch supporting running shoes. They are as follows:
- Comfort
- Aesthetics
- Value for money
- Stability
- Performance
Comfort is something that is universally important for runners, or for anyone who wears running shoes. Switching from a well cushioned pair of shoes to something without any cushioning is a horrible experience, and it really demonstrates just how important comfort is for performing at our best. There are two ways that we will judge comfort, how well the shoe fits (particularly the upper) and how well cushioned they are.
Aesthetics is a difficult factor to measure, as fashion is so subjective. There are some people who believe that crocs are the height of footwear fashion, and there are people who correctly think they are hideous. We’ve gone with our own opinion about how fashionable these running shoes are, but if you disagree with us then please feel free to disregard this factor entirely when totting up your scores.
Value for money is another very important factor, if you are on a budget then it is probably the most important factor of all. It’s not just about how low priced a shoe is, but how long it will last, how comfortable/well made it is for the price, and whether the shoe represents a good investment for you.
Stability, this is the whole reason why you are looking at arch support shoes, for the stability they provide. Obviously, all of the shoes on this list will score highly for stability, or they wouldn’t be here, but some shoes will do a slightly better job than others, and we feel that it is important to include this factor on our table.
Performance is a measure of how well you can run in them, whether they allow for greater agility, balance, and whether the traction is sufficient to allow you to run hard during a race. Energy transfer will also be factored into our scores.
Top Five Running Shoes with Arch Support
| Best Running Shoes with Arch Support | Value | Comfor | Fashion | Stability | Performance | Total | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nike Air Zoom Structure 22 | 5 | 5 | 4 | 5 | 4 | 23/25 | Check Price |
| ASICS Gel-Kayano 26 Platinum | 4 | 4 | 4 | 5 | 5 | 22/25 | Check Price |
| Saucony Echelon 8 Running Shoe | 5 | 4 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 21/25 | Check Price |
| Brooks Adrenaline GTS 21 | 4 | 5 | 5 | 4 | 4 | 22/25 | Check Price |
| Hoka One One Gaviota 2 | 3 | 5 | 4 | 4 | 4 | 20/25 | Check Price |
So, there you have it, five of the best running shoes that provide superb arch support while you run. Our winner is the Nike Air Zoom Structure 22, but there is excellent competition from the ASICS Gel-Kayano 26 platinum running shoe and the Brooks Adrenaline GTS 21 running shoe.
Below we will give a more in-depth look at each of the five shoes to help you decide which shoe suits you best. Remember, you may disagree with our scores for the aesthetics (fashion) of each shoe, which could change the rankings quite a lot.
Running Shoes with Arch Support #1: Nike Air Zoom Structure 22
The outright winners of our list, the Nike Air Zoom Structure 22 running shoes benefit from an amazing value for money score, a top comfort score, and a top stability score. They are in short, the best shoes for the best price. The mesh upper is extremely breathable, the shoes have great traction, and the aesthetics are excellent. These shoes will look just as good on you as you walk through town as they would during a race.
While their high scores for fashion, comfort, and value are all very important, their performance score is also something to consider. These shoes may not be light enough for race days, but for training? They are perfect. They provide excellent stability, allow for decent agility and balance, and their energy transfer is really good. The Nike Air Zoom Structure 22 running shoe is deservedly at the top of our list and well worth your consideration.
Running Shoes with Arch Support #2: ASICS Gel-Kayano 26 Platinum
ASICS have a superb reputation for building high performing running shoes, and the ASICS Gel-Kayano 26 platinum running shoe is no exception, scoring a brilliant 5 out of 5 on our table. The shoe has amazing cushioning, utilising rearfoot and forefoot GEL technology to reduce shock impact and to support your foot as it rolls during a normal running gait.
ASICS also use Flytefoam propel technology, which helps to increase the bounciness of your feet during a run. Allowing you to run faster and at a higher intensity. The stability of this shoe is immense, with the Duomax support system making a huge difference to the midsole.
It is great value for money, looks pretty cool when worn on a run, and is highly comfortable. But this is a real runner’s shoe, and delivers a superb run every time you put them on. If you want to run long distances at a fast time, then the ASICS Gel-Kayano 26 platinum is the best shoe for you.
Running Shoes with Arch Support #3: Saucony Echelon 8 Running Shoe
Saucony are associated with some of the best racing shoes on the market, particularly when it comes to track races such as the 1500m or 100m sprint. But their road running shoes are also highly effective. The Saucony Echelon 8 running shoe is an amazing arch support shoe that is great value for money as well as being ideal for performance.
The shoe loses marks for fashion, as the aesthetics are a little dull. But it is also very comfortable and provides a lot of stability during a run. The PWRRUN cushioning is superb, and the midfoot support panel is perfect for anyone with high arches or flat feet. The shoes fit like a glove, with the 3D heel counter being a welcome addition.
This shoe is an amazingly priced, high performance product suited to middle to long distance road running. A great choice.
Running Shoes with Arch Support #4: Brooks Adrenaline GTS 21
The Brooks Adrenaline GTS 21 is probably the nicest looking running shoe on this list, with a beautiful colour scheme. It is also beautifully designed. The support and cushioning is impressive, and perfect for overpronators. The DNA LOFT crash pad helps to reduce pain and shock when your foot lands, and can prolong your run thanks to the added comfort and energy rebound.
The shoe fits really well, and the GuideRails system can help to reduce knee pain when running. Something that may already be a concern for someone with flat feet or shin splints. The price ranges quite a bit depending on what sized foot you are, but there are some great bargains to be had. A beautiful, well-priced running shoe that will deliver a superb run.
Running Shoes with Arch Support #5: Hoka One One Gaviota 2
The Hoka One One Gaviota 2 running shoe rounds off our list in style, and comfort! Any Hoka One One running shoe is going to be comfortable thanks to the ridiculously large cushioning that the shoes are famous for. The mesh upper will contribute to a lot of breathability, and the shoes have excellent traction.
We’ve scored it down on value for money as the shoes are quite expensive compared to others on this list, but if you are looking for a shoe that you could wear all day without feeling any pain, these are definitely the ones for you.
