The flexibility/rigidity of insoles, orthotics and shoe gear varies,” she explains. “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. Story continues What to look for in the best shoes for arch support “Ligament laxity or flexible feet may also need arch-supportive shoes to provide better control.” “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.

Arch support shoes