Putting on a pair of high heels after wearing arch-supportive slippers indoors for the majority of the last two years is akin to putting on tight jeans after spending a month in sweats. Not. Fun. Which is where socks with arch support come in. You may not have thought much about your foot arches lately, but actually, not wearing sneakers—or any shoes, for that matter—can cause foot pain, especially in those with flat feet.

“Arch support is important for people that have a neutral arch or a low arch (i.e. flat foot),” explains Dr. Tim Oldani. “When a person has a low arch, they are more prone to develop problems such as plantar fasciitis and posterior tibial tendonitis.” These problems may occur when the ligament on the bottom of your foot—the one that helps support the arch—is under increased stress or strain. “Added support through the arch is vital to avoid chronic heel pain and arch pain,” says Dr. Oldani.

Proper shoes, as well as orthotics and even grip socks, can really help with arch support and added stability. But if you’re spending a majority of your time inside, the right slippers and socks will make a difference, too. “If patients combine supportive shoes and orthotics outside the house with socks that provide arch support inside the house, many times they can avoid chronic heel and arch pain,” Dr. Oldani confirms.

See our favorite socks with arch support below.

The best socks for arch support

Dr. Motion Half Cushion Quarter Socks — $10.00

These affordable ankle socks are anti-odor and anti-microbial thanks to a “TruDry” blend of polyester, nylon, and cotton. They provide arch support and comfort, thanks to a light compression. The fabric is breathable and lightweight. An ankle band provides added support but doesn’t limit flexibility or motion. One size fits most.

Bombas Women's Originals Ankle Socks — $12.00

We absolutely love wearing these socks while working from home or pounding the pavement. The beloved sock brand features a honeycomb arch support design, which provides maximum comfort. It feels like a hug on your feet, without being too tight or restrictive. The mostly cotton sock helps your feet stay cool in the summer and warm in the winter, and a textured heel tab ensures your sock won’t slip down into your shoe. With every pair of Bombas sold, the company donates a pair to someone in need.

Feetures Plantar Fasciitis Relief Sock — $25.00

These no-show compression socks are recommended by podiatrists. “Most people prefer not to wear shoes and orthotics in the house,” says Dr. Oldani. “This is a problem, since many people are still working primarily from home.” These socks feature compression elements, a seamless toe, and moisture wicking technology. “Wear a sock specifically designed to provide arch support, such as Feetures Plantar Fasciitis Relief Socks. These provide targeted compression of the arch, plantar fascia, as well as extra cushioning through the heel,” says Dr. Oldani. On top of these socks, Dr. Oldani recommends wearing a supportive slipper. He likes the Naot Unwind slipper. “These have a mattress foam insole that provides support through the arch, which in turn supports the plantar fascia.”

Gwyneth Paltrow x Copper Fit Ultra Gripper Energy Socks — $25.00

This collab is one we never knew we needed but now can’t live without. Gwyneth Paltrow has teamed up with Copper Fit to deliver performance-enhancing products to our lives and the collection really delivers. These grippy socks are a chic version of the hospital stand-by to ensure you won’t slip and slide on your hardwood floors. There is a cushioned arch compression feature that provides comfortable support and a light lift. They are copper infused, meaning they are great at wicking away odor and sweat, and are machine washable. They come in a three pack with two size options. Though they frequently sell out, it’s luckily being restocked all the time.

Comrad Ankle Compression Socks — $18.00

Well-known for knee-high compression socks that celebs like Karlie Kloss wore throughout her pregnancy, this sustainable brand also has ankle socks that provide a medium compression, helping to stimulate blood flow and revive tired tootsies. Perfect if you need to stand for a long period of time, these ankle socks come in a variety of fun colors. They are designed with a 360 degree arch compression to provide achilles support. This, in turn, helps alleviate foot pain from plantar fasciitis. It also helps to reduce swelling and inflammation.

Ankle Compression Socks for Women and Men Circulation — $18.00

These ankle socks are perfect for hardcore athletes and couch surfers alike. If you’re looking for comfort, these socks feature a reinforced heel and toe design, with a light compression (8-15mmHg) to stabilize and support your arches. A ventilated design helps your feet stay cool in warm weather, and warm during cooler temps, as well as dry all year round. They come in a variety of colors, and extended size options for both men and women. Plus, you can’t beat the price of eight pairs for $18.

High Performance Cushion No Show Tab by Feetures — $15.00

These high performance no-show socks from podiatrist-recommended brand Feetures are perfect for any sweat session, both indoors or outdoors. They come in four cute colors including lime green, pink, and teal, and have a snug fit to reduce friction and movement that can cause blisters. A powerful band of Lycra will hug and support your arch, making these the perfect everyday socks.

Copper Socks, FOOTPLUS Unisex Cushioned Sole Arch Support Athletic Ankle/Crew Performance Running Hiking Socks — $11.00

These socks are a great, affordable option with a cushioned arch to provide relief and support. This feature helps to prevent common foot ailments and will give you a pep in your step. The mesh fabric is breathable, and copper helps neutralize bacteria and odor. There is also a cushioned heel to assist with prolonged periods of standing, and a heel tab at the ankle for making sure socks stay in place. Available to ship fast and free with Amazon Prime.

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