Best Shoes for Fallen Arches

If I got a pound every time somebody told me they hated their feet, I would be a millionaire. It seems like our feet are one of our most hated body parts. I know that some foot health problems such as bunions, corns, and hammertoes are just some of the reasons. However, I very rarely see feet that are as bad as people perceive them to be. This blog focuses on fallen arches, how they are caused, how to support them and what the best shoes are for the condition.

What can cause Fallen Arches?

Some ill-fitting footwear can cause arches to drop and flatten. Flimsy ballerina pumps are a prime example of ill-fitting shoes causing arches to drop, and The Society of Shoe Fitters training backs this up. This type of footwear offers little or no support to our feet. If you are constantly wearing these types of shoes then please get fitted with a pair of comfy and supportive shoes!

How Do you fix Fallen Arches?

In general terms, fallen arches normally occur later in life as we age. It is important to recognise any possible foot health issues early so that you can try to correct them or prevent them from worsening.  Fallen arches lower the shock absorption of your feet which in turn can cause discomfort when walking or running. Also, because the arch has flattened, the natural movement of the foot is distorted.

Are Fallen Arches Painful?

The flattening of the arches is not a painful process so it may be harder to spot. If you think your arches have fallen or dropped, it is best to visit a local podiatrist. They may need to prescribe specific orthotic insoles to help.

Is Arch Support important?

When we fit shoes, there are many different factors considered:

• What will the shoes be used for?
• What style of shoe is the best option?
• What size and fit will be the best?
• Which shoe brand will offer the right conditions for this specific customer?
• Does the customer need a wider shoe shape or a narrower shape?
• Does the customer need prominent arch support or low arch support?
• Will the customer need soft materials or more firm materials?

It isn’t just a case of picking a pair of shoes. Instead, we try to think of each aspect to ensure we find the right shoes for the customer.

What does the shape of your feet mean?

Did you know that nobody has the same feet? Your feet will be different from your mother’s and your daughter’s feet will be different from yours. Yes, genes can play a part when it comes to foot health issues, but the most common factor affecting our foot health is our shoes.

Below you can see 4 different shoe shapes that are commonly used within the footwear industry. These shoe shapes can greatly impact the shape of the feet inside. Just imagine the damage that could be done to your feet by wearing those pointed-toe shoes all day, every day.

How Should Shoes fit properly?

We all have such different feet. However, there are similar foot shapes that most of us will fall into. In an ideal world, we would all have shoes made to measure by a bespoke shoemaker. This tailored service would ensure we all had shoes which fitted just right.

However, this is not a reality so we have to try and find the best fit possible from a shoe manufacturer instead. This is why we try to stock as many different brands and styles within those brands as possible. This allows us to give the best selection to our customers and help them to find the right fit and style of shoe. Women’s Legero Shoes are one of our favourites.

A naturally low arch shape does not indicate a weak foot – neither does a naturally high arch indicate a strong one!

WhAT shoes Offer the best Arch Support?

Although none of our brands specifically state that they are for low arches or high arches, through training and experience, we will find shoes that have a more prominent arch shaping. Normally, Women’s ECCO shoes have fairly prominent arch support, but not all styles will so be sure to ask our team.

The Best Shoes for Arch Support

Here are our expert recommendations for ECCO, Legero and IMAC shoes with various arch support built within the shoes.

1. IMAC KARLA, £69.99

Best Lacing Shoes for Fallen Arches

 

We love IMAC shoes for their superb support and cushioned lining. These IMAC trainers are bang on-trend, and the neutral colour means they can be worn with a variety of colours. The removable insole features built-in arch support, designed to protect your feet from fatigue. The direct injection polyurethane sole unit is considered the best sole construction method for those who suffer from foot health problems. Lightweight, flexible and shock absorbent, you’ll love these IMAC lacing shoes on your feet.

2. Legero Tanaro Zip GTX, £115

Best Waterproof Shoes for Fallen Arches

Legero shoes are well known for their supportive and comfy shoes. The Legero Tanaro trainer is a very popular style and at Begg Shoes we have lots of colours for you to choose from. There is built-in arch support, a direct injection PU sole unit and a waterproof Gore Tex membrane. These are lightweight, flexible, hardwearing and shock absorbent.

3. Skechers Arch Fit Breath, £79

Best Wide Fit Shoes for Fallen Arches

If you prefer a wider-fit shoe, then these comfy lacing shoes from Ara are sure to do the trick. The wide fit shoes offer a generous fit and feature a gorgeous suede leather upper with a floral print. The built-in arch support and padded collar ensures a snug and supportive fit.

4. ECCO OFfroad, £90

Best Walking Sandals for Fallen Arches

Add a pop of colour to your summer walks with these ECCO walking sandals. Featuring a padded insole with arch support and cupped heel, your feet will have support where they need it the most. There are three velcro straps for adjustability and the soft neoprene lining feels great against bare skin. The direct injection PU sole unit is shock absorbent and flexible, and features traction details for improved grip.

5. HOtter Mist GTX, £105

Best Walking Shoes for Fallen Arches

Perfect for exploring your surroundings, these Hotter walking shoes are made from breathable and flexible leather. The padded collar and cushioned footbed offer incredible comfort, whilst the shock absorbent outsole is hard-wearing. The waterproof Gore-Tex membrane is ideal for keeping your feet dry and comfortable whatever the weather.

6. IMAC Britney G Lace, £64.99

Best Smart Shoes for Fallen Arches

Ideal for work, these IMAC brogues have built-in arch support. The breathable leather uppers are soft and the wide laces offer a super comfy fit. These supportive work shoes have a little lift at the heel and feature a removable insole should you wish to use your own orthotics.

7. Skechers Appeal Arch Fit, £77

Best Trainers for Fallen Arches

We’re pleased to say that Skechers have expanded their range with a new Arch Fit collection. Arch Fit are a new range by Skechers which offer additional support in their removable insoles. Take a look at our Skechers Walking blog post to find out more about Skechers suitable for walking. These Skechers trainers have a grey mesh fabric upper with light pink details on the lining, laces and sole unit. There is a Podiatrist-certified arch support removable insole, designed to give your feet the support and comfort.

Do Orthotics help fallen arches?

In short, yes! Wearing supportive orthotics or arch support insoles pushes your feet back into their natural shape. In general arch support technology built into insoles – or into your shoes themselves in some cases – offers stability and reduces the workload on your inner foot. There are a variety of brands and choices available and among the most popular with our customers are Skechers Arch Fit.