“Rigid devices would include insoles, orthotics, arch support and shoe gear that are overall stiffer than their very cushioned and flexible counterparts. Sutera recommends pairs that offer support and stability from a rigid device to help hold up the arch. When shopping for arch support shoes for flat feet, Dr. Sensory stimulation, like rolling your feet with a ball, can help release trigger points and enhance foot grip, improving the overall strength of your feet. Splichal says that people who experience foot pain may actually benefit from wearing minimalist shoes because they help strengthen the feet and arches. Whether you have flat feet, high arches or flexible feet, supportive footwear can help reduce your risk of these foot issues and make walking more comfortable in general. “Ligament laxity or flexible feet may also need arch-supportive shoes to provide better control.” What to look for in the best shoes for arch support “People with plantar fasciitis or arch pain are often recommended to use arch support as a way to offload the inflamed tissue,” she explains. Emily Splichal, a New York-based podiatrist and CEO of Naboso. That’s because people with high arches are more prone to common injuries, such as plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendinitis, stress fractures, hammertoes, and IT band syndrome, says Dr. People with higher arches also benefit from arch support shoes, but “tend to need more cushion and accommodation,” Dr. This can lead to misalignment in the knees, hips and back.” “When feet are flat, the arch can touch the ground, causing poor biomechanics and lower limb alignment. Arch support, she says, can help curb such pronation. “Flatter-arched feet need more motion control and stability and excess pronation reduced in order to make the foot function in a more neutral way,” explains New York-based podiatrist and Vionic Innovation Lab member Dr. This puts these individuals at an increased risk for shin splints, bunions, bone spurs and calluses, among other foot issues, according to the Cleveland Clinic. That’s because arch support shoes are key for injury prevention.įor example, people with flat feet (aka fallen arches or feet with little to no arch) tend to overpronate, or roll their feet inward, while walking. In addition, it's important to make sure that the sandal doesn't bend easily and is not flimsy or flat in the middle.If you purchase an independently reviewed product or service through a link on our website, Footwear News may receive an affiliate commission.Īrch support may not only be essential in your workout shoes or running shoes, but also for those everyday pairs - whether you’re working at the office or enjoying a night out on the town. Without a built-in arch, the footbed would be flat, which can also contribute to pronation (an excessive inward rolling of your feet when you walk) and collapse of the arch which may result in plantar (bottom of the foot) and posterior heel pain, shin splints, knee pain, and back pain, Dr. Best thong: ABEO B.I.O.system Beth Neutral.Best arch support: Timberland Malibu Waves Sandal.Best platform: Vionic Brielle Flatform Sandal.Best Sandals with Arch Support At-a-Glance 'I recommend a sandal that has an arch incorporated into its design to provide support, shock absorption, and minimize discomfort,' he says.

Cunha: the arch, the heel, and the width. There are three primary factors to pay attention to when shopping for sandals, according to Dr.

Aside from that, knowing what key elements to look for in a supportive sandal-and the red flags to stay away from-is the next best thing.

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