How to Find the Best Insoles For High Arches & Flat Feet

Whether you have sky-high arches or the flattest feet, you want them to be comfortable all day long. You already know that arch support insoles are going to make all the difference, but finding the right ones can be tough. Options seem infinite and it is hard to tell which is going to make your feet feel best. Fear not, we are the light at the end of the long, dark, confusing tunnel.

The Basics

• Arch support inserts make your feet more comfortable and help solve foot pain, but finding insoles with the right arch height is essential for a precise fit.
• Determining your arch height is the first step towards finding the right orthotics for high arches, moderate arches, or flat feet.
• Once you know your arch height, you can find an insole that matches the contours of your feet, providing support across your entire arch.
• Insoles with firm support provide the long-term comfort you want. Avoid cushioned insoles that feel good initially but ultimately leave your arch unsupported.
• If you are a first-time wearer, we recommend everyday comfort insoles. If you suffer from plantar fasciitis or other foot pain, check out Pace Insoles. For rigid support or particularly flat feet, shop our Dash Insoles.

Table of Contents

• Do I Have High Arches or Flat Feet?
• What Causes High Arches?
• What Are The Best Insoles For High Arches?
• How Do Arch Support Insoles Help With Flat Feet?
• What are the Best Insoles For Low Arches?
• Moderate Arches Need Arch Support Too
• What Makes An Arch Support Insert Good?
• Insoles for Every Arch Height

Do I Have High Arches or Flat Feet?

When seeking out the best insoles for flat feet or high arches, you need to know your arch height. Determining your arch height is as easy as looking at your wet footprint. Compare your footprint to our arch height guide or the chart below.

If you have flat feet, take the extra step to look at your arches in an unweighted position. The easiest way is to sit down and put your ankle on the opposite knee. If you can see an arch when you are not standing up, you will be better off with a medium arch support. If your foot is just as flat sitting as it is standing, a low arch support will be best.

Arch Height Chart

What does your footprint look like?	Describe your arch	Your best insole arch height
	My arch is flat when I sit or stand.	Low arch height insole
	My arch is flat when I stand but appears when I sit.	Medium arch height insole
	My arch is close to but does not touch the ground when I stand.	Medium arch height insole
	My arch is high off the ground when I stand.	High arch height insole
	No one has an arch higher than mine!	Extra high arch height insole

What Causes High Arches?

High arches are usually inherited and you have them from birth. If you develop a high arch in just one foot over the years, please check with your doctor. Typically, high arches alone do not cause pain, but they can result in underpronation (supination). This means your arches do not collapse enough to absorb the shock of walking, which puts stress on your feet and can lead to plantar fasciitis, sore knees, or sore hips.

What Are The Best Insoles For High Arches?

The best fit for high arches and flat feet requires matching your specific contour. The best insoles for high arches should provide firm support that relieves excessive pressure on the ball and heel of your foot. They must distribute body weight evenly across your foot, cushioning the impact of walking or running.

Tread Labs high arch insoles fully support the entire arch and stabilise the heel with a deep heel cup, which concentrates the fatty pad underneath your heel bone. Note: If you have high arches, you should try a couple of arch heights to see which one supports your feet best.

How Do Arch Support Insoles Help With Flat Feet?

When you have flat feet, the entire sole touches the ground when you are standing. This often occurs if arches do not develop properly or due to overpronation. For some, flat feet can cause pain in the heel, arch swelling, or even knee and hip problems.

What are the Best Insoles For Low Arches?

The best insoles for flat feet will fully support your arch and stabilise your heel. This will both prevent overpronation and provide firm support. Typically, the best insoles for flat feet will have a low but supportive arch. Soft, cushy insoles are not a good option; flat feet need structural support that aligns with their contours.

Moderate Arches Need Arch Support Too

If your arch is neither low nor high, you have a moderate foot type. Your feet still need support to prevent fatigue and overpronation, especially when exercising. Runners, walkers, and cyclists particularly benefit from additional support.

What Makes An Arch Support Insert Good?

Supportive insoles dramatically increase foot comfort and improve sports performance. For maximum benefit, an insole must fit well and be durable. Look for these four features:

• Strong Support: Soft foam insoles that deflect easily will not provide long-term comfort. The insole must flex like a spring but remain firm.
• A Flawless Fit: Look for insoles with multiple options for arch heights. Check our fitting guide to ensure a correct match.
• Durability: Cheap chemist insoles last only a few months. The Tread Labs system features moulded arch supports that are unconditionally guaranteed forever.
• Compatibility: Your trainers with removable inserts require a different style than dress shoes. The Tread Labs system allows you to easily swap top covers to fit a large variety of footwear.

Insoles for Every Arch Height

No matter your arch height, insoles will increase comfort by supporting the bones of your foot. Whether you are dealing with shin splints or general fatigue, the right support makes the difference. Explore our range and shop all insoles to find your match.