How To Choose Running Shoes For High Arches

Knowing how to choose running shoes for high arches can be quite valuable, especially for those who suffer pain from running in improper or under-supportive shoes. You have several options when choosing high arched running shoes, including simply visiting a running shoe specialty store where the employees are trained to measure and assess each customer's feet and help you pick appropriate, supportive running shoes. If you want to know the particulars of choosing running shoes for high arches before visiting such a store, or for general knowledge before shopping for new sneakers, the following tips can be beneficial to remember.

1. Know the different arch types, and be certain that high arched running shoes are what you need. This can be done with a paper bag and a little water. Wet your foot and gently step on the paper bag. Lift your foot off the bag and assess where the foot came in contact with the paper. This is done by noting the wet footprint you left behind. For those who need high arch shoes, the majority of the arch will be lifted off the paper, so the wet footprint will consist primarily of contact at the heel and ball of the foot.
2. Understand gait types to better select the type of shoe needed for high arches. This can be done by assessing which parts of your foot strike the ground first when walking and running, and the motion of your foot as the weight is rolled on and then off with each step or stride. This also involves assessing the pronation, overpronation, and so forth of your gait.
3. Determine what type of cushion is needed for your high arches. Typically, runners with high arches who have pronation issues will benefit from a neutral cushion in their running shoes. Other options include motion control styles for over-pronators, stability shoes for moderate over-pronators, and trail shoes for those who run on a variety of surfaces, such as pavement, treadmills and trails.
4. When selecting a running shoe, it is best to try the shoe on, assess the overall fit and try running in it for a few minutes. Do this before settling on a particular style or brand. Do not consistently choose one brand over others just because it is a comfortable brand that you have always purchased for running. Trying a store that specializes in running shoes can be beneficial in opening your eyes to other brands and styles that may offer better support for your high arches, pronation and other areas that give you trouble when running.