Why runners with high arches need cushioning running shoes

Most runners wear running shoes when they run. And the type of shoes you choose can help protect you from the forces of running.
If you have high arches, in general at your feet are more stable and more rigid.
A rigid foot type generally translates to higher peak forces when you run, and particularly when you land as a heel striker.
Cushioning type running shoes can help protect your feet from the pounding forces of running, if you have high arches.
This video by Dr. Christopher Segler talks about why runners who have high arches need cushioning running shoes.

[@tempusfugit7560]

I have high arches and I found this video informative. Thanks for sharing.

[@DocOnTheRun]

Thanks so much for your comment. Glad you found it helpful!

[@davisoutside]

Or improve foot/ankle mobility and gait mechanics so that you can actually disperse high impact forces. Cushioned shoe just covers up the problem.

[@DocOnTheRun]

Totally true and an excellent point. Better to address the root cause!

[@OhhCharliee..]

Easier said than fine. Especially after injuries in the military many years ago.

[@j.c.t3617]

Can I use it for now so that I can run without pain then get rid of it when I feel like my foot can handle the high force or should I just keep running without the support?

[@DAMCARTER1]

What do you recommend? For high arches supination.

[@mikep2629]

Thank you!

[@DocOnTheRun]

You're welcome!

[@binluk2708]

Can you plss suggest shoe type for plantar fasciitis along with bunion?

[@sonareclipse9810]

Hi Doc. I'm really confused. When I do a print of my foot it's clear I have medium to high arches. But gait analysis and physio show that I over-pronate and have heel medial rotation when walking etc I also have achilles pain and lots of heel pain when standing. Tried Brooks Adrenaline but my ankle still appears to roll inwards. Any advice on cause / suitable trainers? Ultra comfort and high arch support needed I think.

[@DocOnTheRun]

Thanks for watching. Sounds like you need some clear answers for sure. To offer advice I would need more detail. You can book on my calnedar so we can talk here: www.docontherun.com/talk-to-the-expert/

[@TheShumoby]

I'm in the same boat, I just add a high arch support insole and I'm good.

[@VoxFelis]

Most of the stock footage of runners were heel striking no? :P

[@mtmatt6111]

@Doc On The Run - as someone who has high arches I really appreciate you posting this video. Because the arch is pulled tight and less flexible would you recommend: * a more flexible cushioned running shoe? * a cushioned shoe with more of a heel/ toe drop? * or a shoe like the Hoka Clifton 7 which has a lot of cushion, less of a drop, less flexibility and a rocker motion? I realize everyone’s feet and biomechanics are different but this generally would be really helpful.

[@tosudhakiran]

@Doc on The Run Could you pls answer this. I’ve the same problem

[@tonib61]

Ofc the perfect question isn't answered

[@parmoodranarajput2675]

Shoes name sir high arched foot plz rply

[@31.8mm]

do forefoot varus/valgus matter? i got hi arch with little valgus, i feel more pressure on my first metatarsal

[@DocOnTheRun]

TOTALLY Matters! The foot functions sort of like a tripod... so the forefoot will come down to the ground and consequently invert or evert the rear foot, all based on how much forefoot varus or valgus is present. Great question!

[@31.8mm]

@@DocOnTheRun thank you Doc

[@SotaMaehara]

Why would a flat arch be less stable (0:35)? (genuine question, would appreciate if someone can explain)

[@DocOnTheRun]

Great question! I will put together a video and Doc On The Run Podcast episode to explain. Thank you!

[@DocOnTheRun]

Hey Sota, Great question! I am creating a special Doc On the Run Podcast episode to answer your question in detail. Make sure you are subscribed to the Doc On Run Podcast and you'll get access it right when it comes out later next week. Thanks!

[@lunacy5510]

Flat foot anatomy is naturally more flexible which makes it better (or at least lighter for the foot overall caue the strain gets distributed on bigger area) at absorbing forces but that also makes the flat foot less stable. High arch foot anatomy is naturally more rigid and therefore it's more stable but the price of that stability is that it doesn't absorb forces very well (or at least the absorption is harder on the foot). More strain tend focus to one point (it can vary individually from heel, to forefoot or big toe) or multiple points but overall smaller area. None arch type is healthier than the other, just can cause difference problems/disbalances. People with high arch are more likely to develop heel or stress pain in other areas of the foot, while flat arch is more likely to cause ligaments pain and sprains.

[@purity4all]

I have high arches, but my feet are really flexible. What is the best type of shoe for me?

[@DocOnTheRun]

Hello Raven, I don't know. To help you figure that out, I would need to see your feet, watch you walk, evaluate the wear patter on your old shoes, discuss your running goals and all of the lives of discomfort you have encountered with other shoes when you have been running. If you would like to discuss in detail we could meet and discuss on webcam here: www.docontherun.com/talk-to-the-expert/

[@presin1028]

I have very high arched feet due to wearing medium heel shoes. Now I have so many health issues due to uncomfortable shoes. Just wished that shoe companies think about our feet before they design shoes. It’s not rock science anyway. You didn’t say which shoes Doc on the run

[@DocOnTheRun]

Thank you so much for sharing your thoughts. I totally agree!

[@lionheart_andy]

What about the arch support function of shoes? Is it helpful for cavus?

[@DocOnTheRun]

If it is needed. Is it needed in your case?

[@lionheart_andy]

@docontherun I have slightly high arches.

[@qdog568]

Never heel strike when running.

[@happyer881]

好