Top 5 Arch Supports For Running Shoes: A Review

Ever finish a run and feel a sharp twinge in your foot? Maybe that familiar ache lingers long after you’ve cooled down. Many runners face this problem, and often, the secret to better comfort and performance lies right underfoot: your running shoe’s arch support.

Choosing the right arch support feels like navigating a maze. Do you need high, medium, or low support? Should you use inserts or rely on the shoe itself? The wrong choice can lead to blisters, shin splints, or even long-term injuries, turning your favorite activity into a source of pain. It’s frustrating when you just want to enjoy the miles ahead!

This guide cuts through the confusion. We will break down exactly what arch support does, how to figure out what your feet need, and what features to look for in the best running shoes. By the end of this post, you will feel confident picking the perfect support system for your stride.

Top Arch Supports For Running Shoes Recommendations

SaleBestseller No. 1

Inserts Relieve Plantar Fasciitis - Flat Feet Insoles Arch Supports, Orthotic Insoles for Foot Pain Arch Pain Reduce Muscle Fatigue Absorb Shock (Mens 6-6 1/2 | Womens 8-8 1/2)

LASTING COMFORT: Arch support improves foot and leg alignment, enhances comfort, and helps ease stress and discomfort caused by flat feet (Pronation), bunions, arthritis,good for Plantar Fasciitis (heel pain and heel spurs), Achilles Tendonitis.
DEEP HEEL CUP: To maintain correct foot positioning protects your heel during the heavy impact of landing during walking or running and stabilizes the foot.
PREMIUM EVA MATERIAL: It is excellent for shock absorption and foot fatigue,The fabric also helps keep your feet cool.
DESIGNED FOR EVERYDAY USE: Provides moderate control and support to your feet. designed for wider, high volume shoes, such as work boots, basketball shoes, running shoes, casual shoes.
CUSTOMER SERVICE: If you receive the item in a broken box, the item is in used condition, or if you have any questions about our products, please contact WALKHERO customer service. Friendly reminder: Please keep the package intact before returning, so that Amazon will not reject your return request due to broken package.

Bestseller No. 2

VALSOLE Heavy Duty Support Pain Relief Orthotics - 220+ lbs Plantar Fasciitis High Arch Support Insoles for Men Women, Flat Feet Insert, Work Boot Shoe Insole, Absorb Shock with Every Step

【HEAVY DUTY SUPPORT INSOLES】Orthotic Shoe Inserts for Men Women designed for over 220lbs, provide extra stong high arch support plus shock guard technology to relieves foot & leg fatigue and reduces lower bak pain and distribute weight and reduce the impact of each step.
【FOOT PAIN RELIEF&PREVETION】:Orthotic inserts offers rigid arch support reduce the overstretch of Plantar Fasciitis.Helps ease stress and pain caused by flat feet,fallen arch,bunions, low back pain and diabetes.Achilles Tendonitis and also Ball of Foot pain.Provides moderate control and support in working and standing, comfort and cushioning for everyday use.
【COMFORT MATERIAL FOR STANDING ALL DAY】:Poron heel pad excellent for shock absorption and pain relief. The black hard TPU material supports the arch of your foot and wraps your heel when you running or jogging.And good fabric reduces odor and keeps the feet fresh.
【Strong arch support】: VALSOLE metatarsal pain insole adjusts the body by supporting subtalar joints to prevent excessive valgus or supine. Super high arch support and deep heel cup structure support with maximum cushioning keep the foot bones vertical and balanced, providing stability.
【TRIM TO FIT & DESIGN FOR DAILY USE】:These insoles for plantar fasciitis is adaptable for work boot.You can also tailor the insole to fit your all shoes better.Our orthotics provides moderate control and support in walking or sports shoes, work shoes and boots. Fit For Most shoes such as running shoes, work shoes and boots, high volume dress shoes, hiking shoes.

Bestseller No. 3

Plantar Fasciitis Insoles, High Arch Support Shoe Inserts Men Women, Orthotics Gel Running Insoles for Flat Feet - Arch Pain - Pronation - Metatarsalgia Pain Relief Heavy Duty Support(Trim to Fit)

ERGONOMIC HIGH ARCH SUPPORT DESIGN – This premium-quality high arch support shoe inserts for plantar fasciitis are specially designed and widely recommended by podiatrists to solve flat feet, plantar fasciitis, pronation, ankle pain, heel spurs, shin splints, metatarsalgia and various other pain and problems caused by wrong postures and help relieve pain and stiffness.(insoles can also be trimmed to fit for the perfect fit)
PREMIUM MATERIAL FOR MODERATE SUPPORT – Consist of semi rigid heel pads made of hard TPU and soft and flexible forefoot made of high-quality PU foam and gel, Crinova shoe inserts for plantar fasciitis are of moderate elasticity and can provide your feet with perfect support for daily walking, running, jogging, working, standing and more. The premium materials are also free of any unwanted substances, ensuring your safety.
BREATHABLE, FLEXIBLE & COMFORTABLE – To reduce fatigue and eliminate any discomfort caused by long time standing or walking, these arch support insoles for flat feet are specially made to be soft and breathable, so your feet will stay dry and comfortable even when wearing for a long day. Soft insoles can also effectively prevent blisters and abrasions.
WIDELY APPLICABLE & PERFECT FOR ALL – Whether you are man or women, young or old, these practical gel shoe inserts are perfect choice for you. You can insert these plantar fasciitis insoles into your running shoes, sneakers, work boots, leather shoes, thin shoes, skateboard shoes and any other shoes that fits, and your walking, camping, jogging, trekking and mountain climbing will be made easy!
HASSLE-FREE PURCHASE-TIMELY AFTER-SALES SERVICE – The Crinova foot arch support insoles are everyone's best investment in foot health! The shoe insoles for plantar fasciitis are the perfect birthday/Christmas/Father's Day/Mother's Day/Valentine gifts for women/men/parents/friends/lovers. Your satisfaction is our top priority. Any product problems will get a response in 24 hours from our professional team after your contact. No matter refund or replacement, you will get the solution at once!

Bestseller No. 4

CURREX RunPro Insoles for Running Shoes, Arch Support Inserts to Help Reduce Fatigue, Prevent Injuries, Boost Performance for Men & Women (High Arch, Size Large)

FEEL BETTER, PERFORM BETTER: Flexible support and shock absorbing cushioning from heel to toe help reduce fatigue, prevent common running injuries such as shin splints, and boost performance everywhere you run, from the trails to the track; the insoles also fold at the flex point, enabling maximum flexibility with movement
3D Dynamic Arch Technology & Multiprofile Arch Support: Our dynamic arch support insoles come in low, medium and high arch support profiles; they feature a deep decoupled heel cup that fits, wraps and locks the heel in place, improving stability, reducing pressure, and providing a perfect fit
Engineered to Energize Your Running: Rebound cushioning and controlled power transmission provide faster regeneration and powerful propulsion with every stride; plus, a zero heel drop provides a great fit in most running shoes with optimized motion for all running foot strikes (insoles can also be trimmed to fit for the perfect fit)
Engineered to Energize Your Running: Rebound cushioning and controlled power transmission provide faster regeneration and powerful propulsion with every stride; plus, a zero heel drop provides a great fit in most running shoes with optimized motion for all running foot strikes (insoles can also be trimmed to fit for the perfect fit)
Made for What Moves You: CURREX is the only insole company that offers a full line of activity-specific insoles customized to help improve how you move; whatever you or your family loves to do, from the workday through the weekend, CURREX makes moving more comfortable, leading to better performance and more fun

SaleBestseller No. 5

Dr. Scholl’s Plantar Fasciitis Relief Orthotic Insoles for Men - The Only Proven Insole to Stop Plantar Fasciitis from Coming Back, Immediately Relieves Pain, Heel Spurs, Arch Support Inserts

Immediately relieves plantar fasciitis heel pain from plantar fasciitis & heel spurs treating pain directly at the source. Prevents plantar fasciitis from coming back.
Distributes foot pressure evenly across the foot, reducing pressure from the forefoot to the heel as you walk.
Shock-absorbing deep heel cup manages heel inflammation, reduces stress and provides both cushioning and stability to the foot. Arch support hugs your foot in just the right spot to stop the plantar fascia from overstretching. Provides support across arch types, including high arches.
Reduces morning plantar fasciitis pain.
Full-length insole that can be easily trimmed to fit your shoe size.

Bestseller No. 6

FEELLIFE Plantar Fasciitis Relief Shoe Insoles [1-Pair], Arch Support Insoles, Running Athletic Gel Shoe Inserts, Orthotic Inserts for Arch Pain[Trim to Fit: Men 8-12/Women 9-13]

ARCH SUPPORT INSOLE: FEELLIFE can balance the force structure of foot, correct abnormal walking patterns for men and women.FEELLIFE arch support insoles relieve heel or metatarsal pain from Plantar Fasciitis. It conforms the curve of the foot bottom surface, fits the foot surface comfortably, and stands for a long time without fatigue.
PLANTAR FASCIITIS RELIEF SHOE INSERT: With the widest and deepest heel cradle design, the heel and feet high quality adaption,FEELLIFE protects your heel during the heavy impact during running or walking.
FEELLIFE TPU & GEL SHOCK & STRONG: Absorption inserts with PU layer help stabilize and support the rear foot, which protects your heel during the heavy impact of running or walking.
RUNNING ATHLETIC GEL SHOE INSOLE: FEELLIFE can provide soft and adjustable size used in walking or casual hiking shoes, work shoes and boots which are comfortable and cushioning for all types of everyday footwear. (adjustable size: insoles can be easily trimmed and adapted)
100% RISK-FREE PURCHASE: FEELLIFE offers 100% replacement and refund for quality problem within 12-month warranty. Guarantee response within 24 hours, please feel free to contact us if you have any questions. Your satisfaction is our concern, so we will try best to solve your any problem.

Bestseller No. 7

riemot Fitness Running Insoles for Men Comfortable Arch Support Inserts Plantar Fasciitis Relief Insole Cushioning Athletic Gel Insert for Sneakers,Hiking Shoes Black US11/ EU44

ALL-DAY COMFORT:riemot running insoles for men women are made from lightweight, high elasticity PU foam that provides heel-to-toe cushioning, as well as moisture-wicking fabric mesh that keeps feet cool, dry and odour-free, ensuring long-lasting durability and exceptional comfort
PLANTAR FASCIITIS RELIEF:Our Orthotic Inserts provide moderate control and arch support for both men and women, helping to relieve pressure and discomfort caused by flat feet (Pronation), bunions, arthritis,good for Plantar Fasciitis (heel pain and heel spurs), Achilles Tendonitis
ENHANCED PROTECTION AND CUSHION:The arch support insert's heel cup keeps your foot in the correct position, protecting it from heavy impacts when landing and stabilising it. Foam in the heel and forefoot absorbs every foot strike, providing excellent shock and impact protection with every step, keeping your feet comfortable while exercising or standing for long periods of time
TRIM TO FIT&DAILY USE: riemot insoles men and women are cut to fit, you can cut to size according to the cutting guide or exact shoe size. Our plantar fasciitis insoles are suitable for most shoes, such as running shoes, work shoes, hiking shoes, sneaker,sports shoes, walking shoes and boots
CUSTOMER SERVICE:If you receive the item in a broken box, the item is in used condition, or if you have any questions about our products, please contact riemot customer service. Friendly reminder: Please keep the package intact before returning, so that Amazon will not reject your return request due to broken package

Bestseller No. 8

Plantar Fasciitis Foot Arch Support Orthopedic Insole Flat Foot Running Shock-Absorbing Insoles Men and Women

Arch Support: Flat foot orthopedic insoles provide support without changing the way your shoe fits. Built-in neutral arch support and double-layer cushioning are the perfect balance of comfort and support in a low profile design. With a specific arch shape, the insole supports the arch and heel, increasing stability and motion control to limit undue stress on the foot, ankle, joints and tendons.
Deep Heel Cup: These arch support insoles feature a deep, narrow heel cup to help support the foot during high-intensity activities and long distances. The stable deep heel ensures your feet are supported by them, suitable as an over-pronation insole for enhanced performance and physical activity.
Premium Fabric: The arch support is made of durable EVA foam base cushioning. Premium fabric reduces heat and friction for foot comfort.
Insole For All Day Standing: High arches, deep heel cups and double soles ensure reduced leg and foot muscle fatigue, making our work boot insoles ideal for people who stand for long periods of time, such as nurses or retail employees. Also suitable for sports, camping, hiking, running, etc.
Warning: After 3-7 days of wearing, your feet may feel pressure. This is normal because your feet are not used to arched support. We strongly recommend starting with 2-3 hours per day and gradually increasing the hours per day.

Your Guide to Picking the Best Arch Supports for Running Shoes

Running feels great, but sometimes your feet need extra help. Arch supports, or insoles, slip inside your running shoes to give your feet the right lift and comfort. Choosing the right pair makes a big difference in how you run and how long you stay injury-free. This guide helps you pick the perfect support for your stride.

Key Features to Look For

Good arch supports offer specific benefits. Look closely at these features when shopping:

Arch Profile (Height): This is how high the support lifts your foot’s arch. Runners with very flat feet (low arches) need high supports. Runners with high arches usually need medium or low supports.
Cushioning Level: Some supports are firm and hard, offering structure. Others are soft and squishy, offering more padding. Decide if you need more shock absorption or more rigid correction.
Heel Cup Depth: The heel cup cradles your heel bone. A deeper cup keeps your foot stable inside the shoe, preventing it from rolling too much (pronation or supination).
Durability: How long will the support last before it flattens out? Look for materials that resist wear and tear, especially if you run many miles each week.

Important Materials That Matter

The material of the support determines its feel, support level, and lifespan.

Support Shell Materials:

Plastics (e.g., Nylon, Polypropylene): These create the firm structure underneath the arch. They are very durable and offer strong correction for overpronation.
Carbon Fiber: This is very light and extremely rigid. It provides maximum energy return, often used by serious runners who need stiffness.

Cushioning/Top Cover Materials:

EVA Foam (Ethylene-Vinyl Acetate): This is the most common foam. It balances cushioning and support well. Higher density EVA lasts longer.
Gel Inserts: Gel pads are often placed in high-impact areas like the heel or forefoot to absorb shock.
Moisture-Wicking Fabric: The top layer should pull sweat away from your foot. This keeps your feet dry and prevents blisters.

Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality

Not all arch supports are created equal. Quality often shows up in the details.

What Makes a Quality Support?

Custom Moldability: The best supports often use heat molding. You heat them up slightly and then stand on them, allowing the material to perfectly match your foot shape. This greatly improves fit.
Targeted Density: High-quality insoles use different densities of foam in different spots. They might be firm under the arch but soft under the heel.
Good Fit in the Shoe: A quality support fits snugly into your running shoe without making your heel lift out of the back or causing your toes to jam against the front.

What Lowers the Quality?

Cheap, Thin Foam: Supports made only of thin, soft foam flatten out quickly. You lose all support after just a few weeks of hard running.
One-Size-Fits-All Stamping: If the support feels generic and doesn’t offer different sizes (small, medium, large), it probably won’t match your foot shape well.

User Experience and Use Cases

Think about why you need the support. Different runners use them for different reasons.

Common Use Cases:

Overpronation Control: If your ankles roll inward excessively when you run, you need a firm support that physically stops that roll. This is the most common reason runners buy supports.
Plantar Fasciitis Relief: This is heel pain. Many runners find relief with supports that have a rigid arch and a deep heel cup, which reduces strain on the fascia ligament.
General Comfort: If your running shoes feel too flat or you spend hours on pavement, a supportive insole adds necessary cushioning and stability for long-term comfort.

When you first wear new supports, your feet might feel slightly strange. This is normal as your muscles adjust to better alignment. Give yourself one to two weeks to break them in. If pain persists after that time, the support might be the wrong type or size for you.

10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Arch Supports

Q: Do I need arch supports if I don’t have flat feet?

A: Not necessarily. Even runners with normal or high arches can benefit from added cushioning or specific stability features that their stock shoe inserts lack.

Q: How long should a pair of running arch supports last?

A: A good quality, durable pair should last between 6 months to a year, depending on how much you run. Replace them when they stop springing back or feel flat.

Q: Can I use arch supports in any running shoe?

A: Usually, yes. You must first remove the original insole that came with the shoe. The arch support then sits in its place.

Q: Will arch supports slow down my running speed?

A: If you choose a very heavy or overly rigid support, it might feel slow. Lighter, performance-focused supports are designed to add structure without adding noticeable weight.

Q: Are custom orthotics better than over-the-counter supports?

A: Custom orthotics are molded exactly to your foot by a doctor, offering the best correction. However, good quality over-the-counter supports are often 80% as effective for a fraction of the cost.

Q: What is the difference between pronation and supination?

A: Pronation is when your foot rolls too far inward. Supination (or underpronation) is when your foot rolls too far outward. Different supports target these different motions.

Q: How do I clean my arch supports?

A: Generally, you should wipe them down with a damp cloth and mild soap. Avoid putting them in the washing machine or dryer, as high heat damages the foam and structure.

Q: Do arch supports help with shin splints?

A: Yes, they often do. Shin splints are frequently caused by poor foot mechanics, like excessive pronation. Correcting the foot alignment with an insole can reduce the stress traveling up the leg.

Q: Should I buy firm or soft supports for distance running?

A: For long distances, firm supports are usually better. They maintain their structure mile after mile, offering consistent support as your foot fatigues.

Q: Are arch supports always uncomfortable at first?

A: A little adjustment time is normal. If the support causes sharp pain or makes your foot cramp badly within the first week, you should stop using them and look for a different profile or size.