Boots Can Cause Major Damage to Your Feet if You Need Arch Support—These Are Podiatrist-Approved

Raise your hand if you’ve ever struggled with foot pain from wearing uncomfortable shoes—specifically boots. That’s pretty much all of us, but those who have high arches or flat feet will especially know the struggle. Boots with arch support—let alone, comfortable boots with arch support—are not easy to find. And wearing the wrong shoes when you have either of these issues can contribute to further problems down the line. Keep reading to find a wide variety of arch-support boots that look on-trend and feel good, to boot (pun intended.)

Best boots with arch support at-a-glance

• Best chunky heel: Free People Elle Boot ($198)
• Best duck boot: Sperry Saltwater Quilted Duck Boot ($50)
• Best Chelsea: DKNY Contrast Lug Sole Chelsea Boot ($150)
• Best lightweight winter: Sorel Women’s Joan of Arctic Lite Hiker Boot ($220)
• Best waterproof winter: UGG Adirondack III Waterproof Bootie ($250)
• Best for snow sports: Columbia Ice Maiden II Boot ($110)
• Best moisture-wicking: Bogs Arcata Knit Boot ($165)
• Best for plantar fasciitis: Kuru Luna Boots ($165)
• Best splurge: Stuart Weitzman Soho Pearl Chelsea Bootie ($630)
• Best platform heel: Sorel Brex™ Waterproof Platform Block Heel Chelsea Boot ($180)
• Best wedge heel: Dr. Scholl’s Lada Wedge Hiking Boot ($30)
• Best eco-friendly: Vionic Lani Lace-Up Boot ($170)
• Best lace-up: Timberland Kinsley 6″ Waterproof Boot ($140)
• Best block heel: Vionic Sibley Ankle Booties ($180)
• Best ankle: Dr. Scholl’s Laurence Ankle Boot ($62)
• Best leather riding boot: Aetrex Vera Riding Boot ($230)
• Best faux leather riding boot: Dr. Scholl’s Brilliance Riding Boot ($84)
• Best wide riding boot: Vince Camuto Vuliann Wide Calf Boots ($206)

How to identify high arches

So, how do you know if you have high arches? According to Chanel J. Perkins, DPM, it’s basically the opposite of having flat feet. “A high arched foot is going to produce a footprint where the toes, ball of the foot, lateral portion of the foot and the heel are the only structures visualized, showing that more weight is exerted on the ball of the foot and the heel,” she explains. “The arch makes no contact with the ground and does not flatten out with weight bearing.” In medical terms, this particular foot type is called “cavus foot.”

Unfortunately, having high arches can make your feet susceptible to problems such as plantar fasciitis, which is characterized by pain and inflammation in the bottom of your foot. “The wrong shoe can cause plantar fasciitis, aka heel pain, midfoot instability, aka, arch pain, and Achilles tendonitis, aka, leg ankle,” says Najwa Javed, DPM and founder of E’MAR Italy. Perkins adds, “Patients will also present with callouses on the ball of the foot and may also develop hammertoes.”

What to look for in boots for high arches

While there are options like orthopedic inserts, you can also simply look for orthopedic shoes or boots with arch support and proper cushioning. Perkins says to keep an eye out for sturdy boots with a heel lift or wedge. “The wider the heel, the better for increased stability,” she says. “I would recommend heels no more than four inches. Lace-up boots are great because there is a greater opportunity for ankle support. A boot designed with a heel or a wedge will naturally contour to a high arched foot.” Meanwhile, she says to avoid styles that are completely flat since these will offer no support for high arches. If you’re short or have bunions, you can also check out boots for short women or boots for bunions.

In general, Javed says to look for shoes with three main features: the sole should be semi-stiff; it should have at least a one-inch heel counter since the elevated heel can help with reducing the arch strain; and it should have semi-rigid arch contact. “Every shoe that has a stiff material along the arch is great for anti-pronation, like the Birkenstock. Having too much pronation can cause severe arch collapse and lead to many issues.

Adds Ashley Lee, DPM, of Northern Illinois Foot & Ankle Specialists, while good boots should have a rigid sole that isn’t easily bendable in the arch, you should still be able to point and flex your foot.

Ahead, you’ll find podiatrist-approved boots that will offer proper arch support so your feet can be pain-free, including the best boots for plantar fasciitis (in case that’s something you’re already dealing with). Oh, and if the idea of only wearing these types of shoes is disheartening, Javed has some good news: “The key is to use supportive shoes 80 percent of the time so that you can wear other varieties of shoes the other 20 percent, and not cause damage to your feet.” (That good old 80/20 rule!)

Best women's boots with arch support

Best chunky heel: Free People, Elle Boot — $198.00

Sizes: 6-11

Looking for a stylish, classic boot that comes in a variety of color options AND offers support? Perkins says that although the heel is a little high, it’s nice and wide making it an overall good choice. This chunky-heeled boot has a back zip closure for easy fitting, and is made with leather upper and lining with a rubber sole.

Colors: 3

Materials: leather, rubber

Pros:

• Back zip closure
• Slouchy design
• Sturdy rubber sole

Cons:

• Pricey

Best duck boot: Sperry, Saltwater Quilted Duck Boot — $50.00

Sizes: 5-12, in half sizes and two widths

These all-weather boots are sleek, with a quilted design and water-resistant rubber shell for versatility. There are rawhide laces and a side zipper to make them easy to put on and take off. Dr. Lee says they fit like a shoe but have support like a boot. They’re a great option if you’re looking for less clunky rain boots, too.

Colors: 6

Materials: leather or nylon, fleece, rubber

Pros:

• All-weather construction
• Water-resistant rubber shell
• Affordable

Cons:

• Polarizing style

Best winter boots with arch support

Best Chelsea: DKNY, Contrast Lug Sole Chelsea Boot — $150.00

Sizes: 6-10, in half sizes

With a striking red sole, this Donna Karan lug boot is a must for your winter wishlist. Not only does Perkins say it has great arch support throughout, but it’s an excellent boot for walking around all day (especially in the city or if you do a lot of walking on pavement). The DKNY lug sole Chelsea boot features a stylish high top that gives the perfect height for any outfit, a web panel design on the sides, and a closed round toe. The upper is made of 100 percent leather, the outsole is constructed of rubber, and the lining is crafted with pure polyurethane.

Colors: 2

Materials: leather, rubber, polyurethane

Pros:

• Great traction
• Comfortable
• Spacious round toe

Cons:

• Chunky 

Best lightweight winter: Sorel, Women’s Joan of Arctic Lite Hiker Boot — $220.00

Sizes: 5-12, in half sizes

These hiking boots will protect your feet from the outside elements all while offering comfort for your arches. These are nice and lightweight, which makes them ideal for packing. And although they’re on the lighter side, they still offer 100g insulation and warmth (thanks to their microfleece lining and seam-sealed waterproof craftsmanship). You’ll also find that they’re supremely comfortable, thanks to their EVA footbed, which gives you a bouncy step. Wear them in rain or snow—SOREL’s scallop sole will give you the traction you need to combat any kind of rough weather. Bonus: They also come in three different colors.

Colors: 3

Materials: waterproof suede/leather, rubber

Pros:

• Hidden wedge heel
• Comfortable arch support
• Waterproof design

Cons:

• Pricey

Best waterproof winter: UGG, Adirondack III Waterproof Bootie — $250.00

Sizes: 5-12, in half sizes

Whether you’re walking in the rain or the snow, these UGG boots will keep your feet warm, cozy, and dry. Dr. Lee says these waterproof boots for women have good arch support, and they also fit like a shoe, making them extra comfortable. With faux fur lining, these boots will be your go-to cold-weather shoe.

Colors: 2

Materials: leather, wool/faux fur, rubber

Pros:

• Waterproof
• Warm
• Comfortable

Cons:

• Expensive
• Run small

Best for snow sports: Columbia, Ice Maiden II Boot — $110.00

Sizes: 5-12, in half sizes and two widths

With a supportive midsole and advanced traction, these Columbia boots are ready for any adventure in the snow and beyond. They have waterproof leather, textile upper, and waterproof seam construction to keep the wet out. And they’re lightweight and have insulation to keep your feet warm without weighing them down.  Dr. Lee says they’re comfortable and easy to walk in.

Colors: 5

Materials: waterproof leather and textile, rubber

Pros:

• Waterproof
• Affordable
• Insulated

Cons:

• Not as versatile as other options

Best moisture-wicking: Bogs, Arcata Knit Boot — $165.00

Sizes: 6-12

Let’s face it: walking in long socks and boots can make your feet pretty sweaty. These Bogs boots have sweat-wicking technology and odor control, to make sure your feet stay fresh and dry. They have handles on the side so you don’t have to struggle getting them on and off your feet, and Dr. Lee says the outer sole is  more stable than other Bog styles, which makes these great for traction.

Colors: 2

Materials: knit upper, 7mm Neo-Tech insulation, faux fur lining

Pros:

• Sweat-wicking
• Side pulls for easy on-and-off
• Great traction

Cons:

• They don’t come in a lot of colors
• Whole sizes only

Best boots for plantar fasciitis

Best for plantar fasciitis: Kuru, Luna Boots — $165.00

Sizes: 6-11, in half sizes

While some of the options on our list can support soles with plantar fasciitis, none quite compare to the Kuru Luna Boots. These boots are specifically designed with heel health in mind and feature dual-density arch support and heel-hugging technology for long-lasting comfort and support. We love them because, in addition to their comfort, they’re actually designed for walking, making them a good commuter boot, too. 

Colors: 2

Materials: leather

Pros: 

• Designed with heel health in mind
• Dual-density arch support
• Versatile

Cons:

• Pricey
• Only two colors

Best splurge: Stuart Weitzman, Soho Pearl Chelsea Bootie — $630.00

Sizes: 5-10, in half sizes

If you’re looking for a splurge-worthy sole-mate, consider an option with both comfort and style. We love the Stuart Weitzman Soho Pearl Chelsea Bootie because it features a functional design with lug sole detailing for lots of support and durability while walking. The boots are also constructed from a gorgeous leather material that looks and feels luxe—and will only get better with time. Additionally, it adds a touch of flair with studded pearl stones for some sparkle. 

Colors: 1

Materials: leather, textile

Pros:

• Combines style and function
• Luxe
• Lug sole for traction

Cons:

• Expensive
• Only one color

Best hiking boots with arch support

Best platform heel: Sorel Brex™ Waterproof Platform Block Heel Chelsea Boot — $180.00

If you love a platform heel, you can’t go wrong with these adorable Chelsea boots from Sorel. The waterproof platform boots feature a comfortable block heel with Sorel’s signature lug-sole texture for added traction and support. The rubber sole also adds a layer of stability to the overall design, so you can easily strut down the street without worrying about slipping or tripping—even when it’s pouring rain. On top of that, these boots have a removable insole so you can add your own orthotics for more customized comfort. 

• Materials: Rubber, EVA, leather
• Sizes: 5-12
• Colors: Black and white, black and green

Pros:

• The removable insole.
• The signature traction.
• The durable rubber sole.

Cons:

• They might be too tall for some preferences.

Best wedge heel: Dr. Scholl's Lada Wedge Hiking Boot — $31.00

This boot is great for high arches and PERFECT for people with plantar fasciitis, according to Perkins. “I love that it has a wedge which supports the fascia ligament throughout its entire course,” she says. Bonus: These microfiber lace-ups are made with a plant-based BLOOM foam insole, which gives extra support. That wedge-heel sole is what you’re looking for when it comes to supreme lift.

• Materials: microsuede or fabric made from recycled bottles, heel made from recycled materials
• Sizes: 6.5-11
• Colors: black, olive

Pros:

• The wedge design supports the fascia ligament. 
• The plant-based construction. 
• The price.

Cons:

• They don’t come in a lot of colors.

Best lace-up boots with arch support

Best eco-friendly: Vionic Lani Lace-Up Boot — $170.00

Sizes: 5-11, in half sizes and two widths

These chic, leather combat boots pair well with anything from dresses to jeans. “The Vionic brand was developed by a Podiatrist and approved by the American Podiatric Medical Association,” says Perkins. “You can’t go wrong with this brand!” It’s recommended that you break these in for a few hours (we suggest wearing thicker socks to stretch the leather a bit) before walking around in them. This is best practice for just about any shoe, but especially for orthotic shoes.

Colors: 2

Materials: microsuede or fabric made from recycled bottles, heel made from recycled materials

Pros:

• Eco-friendly construction
• Long-lasting support
• American Podiatric Medical Association-approved

Cons:

• Pricey

Best lace-up: Timberland, Kinsley 6" Waterproof Boot — $140.00

Sizes: 5.5-11, in half sizes

For a pair of classic lace-up boots that also happen to provide ample arch support and long-lasting comfort, consider the Timberland Kinsley Waterproof Boots. They boast a block heel design, come in four different colors—including a chic all-black option—and sizes 5.5-11. Since Timberland is known for its workboots, you can expect the same all-day comfort and durable construction but with a more stylish silhouette. We love them because you can easily dress them up or down, and they’re a good option for the office on cold, rainy days. 

Colors: 3

Materials: Waterproof leather, textile

Pros:

• Waterproof
• Comfortable
• Affordable

Cons:

• Heel might be too tall for some preferences

Best ankle boots with arch support

Best block heel: Vionic, Sibley Ankle Booties — $180.00

Sizes: 5-11, in half sizes

Don’t be fooled by the two-inch heel. You’ll never guess these stylish suede booties have orthopedic support. They’re also weather-resistant, thanks to the treated suede material. Easily slide them on using the side zipper—and don’t worry about your toes getting cramped, as the brand’s Meta Dome toebox distributes pressure evenly.

Colors: 2

Materials: suede, man-made heel

Pros:

• Stable and arch-supportive
• Stylish
• Side zipper for easy on-and-off

Cons:

• Pricey

Best ankle: Dr. Scholl’s, Laurence Ankle Boot — $62.00

Sizes: 6-11, in half sizes

Not only are these Dr. Scholl’s boots comfy and supportive, they’re also sustainably made from recycled bottles. Made from microsuede, these chunky boots are sleek, stylish, and they’re versatile enough to pair with any ensemble.

Colors: 3

Materials: microsuede or fabric made from recycled bottles

Pros: 

• Recycled materials
• Affordable
• Versatile

Cons:

• Limited half-sizing

Best riding boots with arch support

Best leather riding boot: Aetrex Vera Riding Boot — $230.00

Sizes: 5-10

These tall boots will look incredible with leggings or jeans, and offer ample support thanks to its cushioned footbed and Aetrex’s renowned arch support. These leather boots feature a side-zip closure for slipping on and off.

Colors: 1

Materials: leather, synthetic rubber

Pros:

• Cushioned footbed
• Spacious toe box
• Size zipper for easy on-and-off

Cons:

• Expensive
• No half sizing

Best faux leather riding boot: Dr. Scholl's Brilliance Riding Boot — $120.00

Sizes: 6-11, in half sizes

These knee-high boots have memory foam insoles and are available in a wider calf option. Made of synthetic leather (including the sole), this is a great option if you’re looking for a vegan option.

Colors: 2

Materials: synthetic leather, memory foam

Pros:

• Memory foam insoles
• Vegan construction
• Affordable

Cons:

• Limited color options

Best wide riding boot: Vince Camuto, Vuliann Wide Calf Boots — $206.00

Sizes: 5.5-12, in half sizes

Tired of boot shafts that don’t zip or bunch? Meet the Vulianns. The wide-calf design of these boots ensures a perfect fit for all-day wear, while its sleek silhouette and durable construction add a timeless addition to any wardrobe. Warning: They sell out fast, so get them while you can.

Colors: 3

Materials: leather, synthetic sole

(For more wide-calf styles, check out our roundup of the best boots for bigger calves.)

Pros:

• Designed for wide calfs
• Side zipper for easy on-and-off
• Versatile

Cons:

• Pricey
• Limited sizing available

FAQs

What is the best brand for arch support?

It depends on personal preference! But if you need a recommendation, Vionic boots are great for arch support, according to Dr. Tran. Not only are many of the brand’s styles approved by the APMA, but most of its shoes, especially the heels, have built-in arch support and orthotics.

Do boots have good arch support?

Generally speaking, no. “Not all boots have arch support,” says Dr. Tran. “I find boots to be the opposite.” He adds that most of the boots have flat soles, so double-check to see if the boots you’re buying have orthotics, removable insoles to replace with custom orthotics or built-in arch support.