best running shoes for collapsing arches

Best Running Shoes for Collapsing Arches | Great Support for Painful Arches

Posted on by Todd Alexander

Last updated on April 11th, 2022 at 12:27 pm

If you suffer from collapsing arches, you may be experiencing various pains as a result. Especially for those of us hitting the pavement or running trails. A lot of runners with falling arches will experience worsening back pain and foot injuries after long distances. However, the best running shoes for collapsing arches are designed to offer the greatest support and comfort.

What Makes a Great Running Shoe for Collapsing Arches

When it comes to choosing the right shoes for this condition, several things need to be considered. We always consider the following attributes in a shoe for those with collapsing arches.

  1. Stability: shoes that are built for stability are best for collapsing arches. Features that give structure to the midfoot and heel will allow for a more natural running gait. These elements will help fight the foot from rolling inward, also known as overpronation.
  2. Accommodate Orthotics: running shoes with high-quality supportive insoles are best. However, shoes with removable insoles and plenty of room for custom orthotics are a must as well.
  3. Heel Counter: shoes with solid heel counters will provide great heel stability and keep the foot in a neutral running position.
  4. Cushioning: ideally running shoes for fallen arches should have a firm sole accompanied by good cushioning to help spread the weight through the entire foot and alleviate any stress on the arch. Additionally, this can help keep the foot from rolling inward.

Our Favorite Running Shoes for Collapsing Arches Are...

We are very familiar with the pain of collapsed arches. So, we decided to take a look at some of the best running shoes that can soothe discomfort, offer good support, and prevent further distress.

We were pleased with our results and out of all the shoes we looked at, these stood out from the crowd.

The best overall: Brooks Dyad 11

Second Place: New Balance M990 v5

Our Favorite for Heel Comfort: Asics Gel-Kayano 28

While the above shoes took the top spot, we’ll share more about them and our other top picks in our reviews below.

Comparison Table of Running Shoes for Collapsing Arches

To start, we’ve compiled a chart of our favorites for fallen arches. For quick reference and current pricing, follow the links here. However, we’ve go into greater detail on our findings in the post following.

Picture Name / Link Price
Brooks Dyad 11 $$
New Balance M990 v5 $$$
Asics Gel-Kayano 28 $$
Brooks Beast 20 $$$
Altra Provision 6 $$
Asics GT-2000 7 $

There are so many options on the market, and for those with collapsed arches some shoes can worsen the condition. However, we were able to weed out the rest and find the best of the best for falling arches. We’ll go further into our findings below.

1. Brooks Dyad 11

First up, our favorite all around shoe for this collapsing arches is the Brooks Dyad 11. We found the dense rubber outsole and its excellent arch support to put this at the forefront of its game.

Wide Fit

Importantly, if you use custom orthotics, then the wider fit on these will give you plenty of room. However, even with its wide frame, the Brooks Dyad 11 feels very secure on the foot.

For people with collapsing arches, a wider toe box can drastically relieve pressure on the front part of the foot. This will help to prevent pain and further injuries or complications from occurring.

Neutral Stride Support

We know that additional arch support is critical for those with collapsing arches and the Brooks Dyad 11 delivers.

This shoe features Dual Arch Pods which are an innovative type of arch support that you can see at at the base. And, when running you can feel these working especially well to keep the arches from further collapse as the gently reinforce this area.

All of this together creates a shoe that boasts amazing stability. The Dyad 11 is a stable neutral shoe. In other words, this shoe will keep your foot from rolling inward or outward as well and keep you running in a natural and correct stride.

Extreme Comfort

Not only does this shoe feature a beautifully plush upper, but the cushioning is also second to none.

Runners will happily find BioMoGo DNA cushioning which reduces stress on joints with every impact. We find this molds to the foot’s shape perfectly, which helps cradle those arches.

We’ve found that this is one of the best options for a smooth ride and stable comfort.

Brooks Dyad 11 Pros and Cons

Brooks Dyad 11 PROS

  • Roomy
  • Excellent cushioning
  • Lightweight feel
  • Flexible crash pad

Brooks Dyad 11 CONS

  • Cushioning is quite firm

Who is This Shoe Perfect For?

These shoes are great if you want the best of everything. When tackling problems associated with collapsing arches, you may find that you need a combination of things to feel comfortable; the Brooks Dyad are comfortable, stable, and have plenty of room. Check out more information, including current pricing and styles, here: Brooks Women’s Dyad 11 and the Brooks Men’s Dyad 11

2. New Balance 990v5

Our runner up is the New Balance 990v5 for its wide fit and stability. 

However, runners also find this entire shoe to give the needed structure and flexibility for low arches. 

Very Stable

From the ground up, the 990v5 offers a very impressive degree of stability which is essential for those with collapsing arches. We’ve found the cushioning is firm yet comfortable and very supportive.

Runners with collapsing arches may find their ankles to turn inward while running. And, while this is part of your natural running style, it adds loads of extra stress on the joints and tendons.

However, the 990v5 is reinforced well through the midfoot to counteract this tendency toward over-pronation. 

Breathable

In addition to excellent comfort, this shoe is more breathable than it looks. Yes, it boasts a pigskin upper and appears too have less mesh than its competitors. However, we’ve found the 990v5 to have an exceptional breathable upper that provides the best airflow. 

Additionally, this upper offers support and firmness in all the right places. 

ENCAP Midsole

Finally, the midsole on the 990v5 is not only wonderfully comfortable and shock-absorbent, but is also very durable.

This is important for those embarking on longer runs that need something to stand up to the challenge. What’s more, the midsole is firm which adds to the overall stability of the shoes.

Runners with collapsing arches find the 990v5 to have a graceful transition and excellent comfort.

Pros and Cons of the New Balance 990v5

New Balance 990v5 PROS

  • Excellent transitions
  • Durable 
  • Great stability shoe
  • Superior comfort

New Balance 990v5 CONS

  • On the heavy side at 13.7oz
  • Sizes run small

Why Will Runners Love These Shoes?

If you like strong, firm support with a great degree of stability, then these shoes will be an excellent choice. Additionally, the 990v5 are ideal for a variety of foot conditions including collapsing arches and will provide support even on longer runs. View more information, including current pricing and styles, here: Men’s New Balance M990 v5 and the Women’s New Balance M990 v5

3. Asics Gel-Kayano 28

Next up is our favorite for those of us that impact the heel when running. Enter the Asics Gel-Kayano 28 with its impressively lightweight profile for all that it offers. For anyone running rugged trails, an incredibly generous cushioning will cushion the arches and provide loads of shock absorption for the joints.

FF BLAST Technology

One of the first things that grabbed our attention was Asic’s newer FF BLAST technology. And, just how well this is balanced throughout the entire shoe.

As a result, this is a great shoe for many different styles of runners.

We found this cushioning gives a great bounce and excellent responsiveness, which helps fight fatigue to keep you moving. As well as adequately protecting the foot from shock.

Supportive Heel Counter

Having a supportive heel counter is imperative and this is one area in which the Gel-Kayano 28 shines. 

We found this counter to greatly improve the overall running experience in this shoe. In fact, for those with collapsing arches, the Gel-Kayano 28 helps keep the foot in a neutral position. Thus, this shoe feels fantastic on long runs and your ankles and knees will thank you!

However, with a firm heel, some shoes may cause chafing and discomfort, but this isn’t a problem with the Gel-Kayano. The heel is relatively low and well-positioned with a secure fit which stops the foot moving around inside the shoe.

Improved Stability

In addition to a great fit and structure, runners will notice amazing stability. And, what contributes most to this is the DYNAMIC DUOMAX support system in the midsole.

Additionally, this dual-density midsole is perfect for a variety of sports as well as straight-forward runs. Regardless of where you’re going, this shoe performs with some of the best. 

And, for those with collapsing arches, this stability is essential for pain-free runs.

Pros and Cons of the Asics Gel-Kayano 28

Asics Gel-Kayano 28 PROS

  • Firm heel counter
  • Very spacious in the toe
  • Gelled heel for shock absorption
  • Impact guidance system

Asics Gel-Kayano 28 CONS

Who Would This Shoe be Perfect For?

These shoes are designed for maximum stability and a very good level of cushioning. This makes them ideal for people who will be going to be tackling more uneven or challenging terrain. Check out more information, including current styles and pricing, here: Men’s Asics Gel-Kayano 28 and the Women’s Asics Gel-Kayano 28

4. Brooks Beast/Ariel 20

The Brooks Beast/Ariel 20 is another amazing option for those of us with low or fallen arches. This is is known for having a plush cushioned foundation for comfortable running. And, with Brooks’ guide rail system, runners will move in a neutral stride with confidence.

Additionall, the Brooks Beast, and its female counterpart Ariel, offers a superb ride from heel to toe.

Great Cushioning

First and foresmost, the Brooks Beast/Ariel 20 features durable DNA Loft cushioning that is incredibly soft and responsive. We find this versatility is demonstrated in almost every feature of the shoes.

If comfort and cushion is your main priority, then these running shoes will prove to be a winner. Regardless of the speed, trail type, or any other factors, the Beast/Ariel 20 is up for the task and keeps feet cozy.

What’s more, with the addition of guide rails, the feet will not move with unnecessary lateral slipping. This prevents unnecessary strain on the arches and tendons of the feet.

Not only that, these guide rails send the foot into a comfortable an more natural/neutral stride upon toe-off. As a result, runners with collapsed arches will also find relief from any knee or ankle pain.

Excellent Fit

Finally, having a secure fit is essential, especially with all of these fabulous add-ons for a stable ride.

Runners find the Beast/Ariel 20 to offer one of the best fits to accompany its cushioning and arch-supporting elements. We love this shoe for its stretchy upper that fits perfectly around the foot for maximum comfort and security.

What’s more, they have a lot of room in the toe and a tight closure that will stop the feet from moving around.

Brooks Beast 20 Pros and Cons

Brooks Beast 20 PROS

  • Maximum comfort
  • Great shock resistance
  • Very stable
  • Breathable
  • Lighter than previous models

Brooks Beast 20 CONS

  • Longtime Brooks fans may notice a decrease in quality around the collar

Who is This Shoe Perfect For?

These shoes are ideal for anyone who needs maximum comfort and support. We find these to be a great option for serious runners that have struggled in the past due to the discomfort associated with collapsing arches. Check out more information, including current pricing and styles, here: Brooks Women’s Ariel 20 and the Brooks Men’s Beast 20  

5. Altra Provision 6

Another great option for collapsed arches is the Altra Provision 6 with its amazing shock absorbency, responsiveness and neutral fit. Additionally, runners find this shoe to prove very durable, which is immediately apparent thanks to its tough upper construction.

Room for Orthotics

If you use orthotics to help with the problems caused by your collapsing arches, then additional room in the shoe is crucial. Thankfully, the Provision 6 has a very roomy toe box to allow loads of room for your own inserts.

This is all thanks to their FootShape toe box which offers a custom fit and room for toes to splay regardless of the additional insert. Thus, the foot isn’t compressed and runners notice a much more natural gait.

Guide Rails for a Neutral Ride

Additionally, one thing that really stood out for us was how easily these reset the foot to a neutral position. 

For people who need a bit of guidance back to nuetral, the Provision 6 features Altra’s GuideRail System as with previous years.

We found these to give a gentle nudge in the right direction that wasn’t forced or uncomfortable. As a result, runners love this new upgrade to keep them focused on the task at hand. 

Not only that, but it’s only there when you need it. That is when you lace up tight enough to engage the medial support.

As a result, runners will find this shoe fights arch collapse beautifully.

Altra Provision 6 Pros and Cons

Altra Provision 6 PROS

  • Lightweight
  • Secure and comfortable fit
  • Good stability
  • Great rebound/responsiveness
  • Very breathable
  • Wide toe box

Altra Provision 6 CONS

  • Some reports of the color bleeding from the inner fabric
  • May be too firm for some users
  • Sizes run small

Who Would This Shoebe Perfect For?

People who like a firm midsole that doesn’t compromise on comfort will be seriously impressed with this shoe. Owing to their durable design, they will also be great for people who need a shoe that will stand up to their demanding workout routine. View more information, including current pricing and styles, here: Altra Men’s Provision 6 and the Altra Women’s Provision 6

6. Asics GT-2000 7

Finally, we have the Asics GT-2000 7, an extremely comfortable option for those that like something more cushioned. And, although this is an older model, it is far superior to the GT-2000 10.

We found the GT-2000 7 feels as though you are running on a cloud. And this is is a great relief for those aching arches.

Very Roomy

With an improved design, the GT-2000 7 now features much more space in the toe end of the shoe. This is great if you need to insert orthotics and excellent news for anyone with wider feet.

But despite being roomy, this doesn’t mean they’re lacking a secure fit. We found this shoe to have a flexible yet secure upper that mold perfectly to your feet.

Great Heel Support

Having a supportive heel counter is imperative for sufferers of collapsing arches. This problem is addressed in an outstanding manner with the GT-2000 7.

With an improved material in the heel for maximum support, runners will find a secure fit in the heel that helps guide the rest of the foot from falling inward.

Cushioned For Comfort

Finally, we love this shoe for its spEVA midsole which offers superior bounce back with every step. In fact, these shoes are responsive, absorb shock effortlessly, and are amazingly comfortable.

Additionally, runners will find gel cushions in both the toe and heel of which gives that extra comfort your feet have been crying out for. 

These shoes also feature FlyteFoam Lite technology which uses this incredible material to boost the comfort of the midsole through nanofibers. Not only does this offer a medium plush cushion, it’s incredibly lightweight and doesn’t make the shoe bulky.

Asics GT-2000 7 Pros and Cons

Asics GT-2000 7 PROS

  • Good stability
  • Lightweight
  • Secure fit
  • Great shock absorbency
  • Comfortable ride

Asics GT-2000 7 CONS

  • Laces could be longer

Who is This Shoe Perfect For?

This shoe is ideal for anyone who needs something extra soft and bouncy. Check out more information, including current pricing and styles, here: Women’s Asics GT-2000 7 and the Men’s Asics GT-2000 7

Before Picking a Running Shoe for Fallen Arches

There is a wealth of running shoes out there for you to search though, and all of our above are ideal for this condition. However, if you’re still on the hunt, consider the attributes we use to weed out the best. Choose shoes that offer:

  • Good level of stability. Features that give stability like midfoot structural elements, overlays, sturdy heel counters and guiderails give those with collapsing arches much needed support.
  • Room for Orthotics. This sounds like an easy task, however, not all shoes can accommodate. With your collapsing arches, you’ll want room for custom orthotics.
  • A firm heel counter. As previously mention, a firm heel counter is essential for stability. However, shoes with good heel counters also keep the foot in a neutral running position.
  • Good cushioning. Fallen arches need a firm sole and good cushioning to keep the foot from rolling inward.

Whether you are to choose a pair that we recommend or not, be sure to test them out prior to running. And seek custom orthotics to help alleviate pain and provide lasting comfort.

Collapsing Arches Happen... Make Changes to Stay Active

Collapsed arches can cause back pain, tendon injuries, and foot and ankle pain. With incorrect footwear, running with collapsed arches will be painful and cause further injury. However, there are many running shoes that can help relieve discomfort and tension for those who are suffering.

Running is freedom, don’t let your arches get you down.

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Image Credit:  Jack Sem | (source) | Attribution 2.0 Generic (CC BY 2.0) –reduced file size