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Whether it's walking the catwalk or standing to assist customers, fashionistas with high arches can't let foot pain slow them down. The solution is to find the best shoe designed specifically for ladies who have high arches and who stand and walk the majority of the day. With the right fit, these shoes can move gals from "ow" to "wow."
Why a Good Shoe Matters
When you have high arches, it means that your foot ends up shorter and a little stiffer. Subsequently, your foot can't absorb the shock that comes with normal steps as well. The jolt from walking can travel up your frame and cause serious hurt in your back. High arches also can be painful for your foot, causing calluses and even toe deformity. A good shoe supports the foot in a way that makes your high arches something you easily can manage.
Thick Sole
Fashionistas with beautiful tootsies may have high arches, but when it comes to handling shock, their feet fall flat. The best shoes for standing a long time when you have high arches have thick soles, preferably of rubber. The soles help take the brunt of the shock of your step so that it isn't as severe and direct to your foot. Generally speaking, that means you're going to need a trendy but practical pair of sneakers designed for walking.
Arch and Heel Molding
The best shoes for standing all day with high arches have a molded support in the inside center of the shoe on the bottom. The support fills in the gap between the inner platform of the shoe -- the footbed -- and the bottom of the foot that happens because of the high arch. The support ideally is made out of a firm silicone gel so that it fits to the foot. You also should scope out shoes for similar supports at the heel. These are necessary because the plantar fascia, a ligament that supports the arch and connects to the heel, can become inflamed and stiffen when too much stress is put on it. Depending on how severe your arch is, you may only need one support or the other. If a shoe is "almost" perfect for you, you can bring them up to snuff with removable inserts, which are available online, through shoe stores and doctors who specialize in foot care. Another alternative is having shoes custom made based on your specific measurements. This is more expensive, but in some cases insurance can cover the cost if you can work with a doctor to show the arches are causing medical issues.
Considerations
The shoes that are best for people with high arches have to meet other basic guidelines that apply to all shoes. For instance, they should be easy to take on and off and shouldn't constrict or pinch your feet. They should give you at least 1/2 to 1 inch of space between your longest toe and the front of the shoe. Although the support and cushioning in the shoe is the most important thing for a high arch, the shoes still should be made out of durable materials. Not only that, but picking shoes when arches are high isn't the time for a diva to be dishonest about her weight. Heavier ladies naturally create more shock as they walk, so if you've got a little more to love, just admit it to yourself and buy a shoe that has some extra cushioning.
