You have a high arch aka cavus feet if your foot doesn’t contact the ground when you stand evenly. Most people are born with this condition and others acquire it along the way. According to Healthline, a high arch is indicative of other underlying conditions like Spina Bifida, polio, stroke, cerebral palsy, Charcot-Marie-tooth disease, and spinal cord tumors.
If you have high arches, a few things are bound to happen. First, your weight concentrates around the heel and ball of the feet. This leads to corns, calluses, tightening calves, muscle stiffness, and arch pain.
Secondly, because of the improper contact with the ground, high arches can lead to pronation problems. This condition can be so burdensome to people who spend a lot of time walking and standing.
Other problems that may occur due to high arches include plantar fasciitis, metatarsalgia, claw toes, hammertoes, and foot and ankle instability.
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The solution to the High Arch Feet Problem
Gladly, you don’t have to bear the burden of high arches every day. There are many ways you can solve this problem. Some of them include:
Icing: The tendons and muscles in your arch will always get overstretched when you stand or walk for many hours. And this will hurt during and after your errands. Icing your feet with a pack of ice wrapped in a towel for 20 minutes can ease your pain. If you don’t have access to ice, you can dip your feet in cold (really, cold) water.
OTC pain medication: If your high arch results in a lot of pain and soreness that won’t go away with icing, you can resort to pain killers and other anti-inflammatory drugs.
Orthotic devices: Orthotics can be placed in your shoes to cushion and support your arches, heel, and ball of the foot. The best orthotics should be customized to your feet although you can find reliable off-shelve options as well. If you don’t want to shop for these devices, then consider orthopedic shoes. They come readily customized for pronation problems.
Shoes: Special shoes that provide the right arch support can be the silver bullet to your painful arches. If worn frequently, you will not need to worry about icing, OTC meds, night splints, and other costly orthotic devices.
In this article, we are going to suggest some of the best cross training shoes for high arches. Note that due to the multiplicity of cross-training workouts, sometimes getting the right shoe can be a dicey game. Nevertheless, there are those options that training gurus and podiatrists (not the self-proclaimed) highly recommend. Those kinds are the ones we are going to talk about.
Without wasting a second, let’s dive into the review section.
Best Cross Trainers for High Arches 2022
Here are some of the hottest and performance-proven cross-trainers:
1. New Balance Men’s 517 V2 Cross Trainer
How about we start this off with a 5-star rated choice? Awesome right? If you are a stickler for perfection, are afraid of making purchases online or you simply want a shoe that gets things done well, then you will totally love New Balance Men’s 517 V2 Cross Trainer.
This is a top-rated cross trainer with advanced shock absorption ability. The midsole features ABZORB, a technology that absorbs impact while resisting compression. Put simply, this isn’t a shoe that thins out after a month or two of HIIT exercises.
Still, on comfort, this performance charged New Balance cross trainer is adequately padded and meshed to stay cool no matter how hot it gets. To top synthetic fabric is durable with a no-sew tip and is bathed in crowd-pleasing colors. This ensures you still get the killer looks during workouts.
Features
- Synthetic and mesh top
- ABZORB midsole cushioning
- Breathable overlays
- No-sew tip
- Over 5 color choices
- Rubber outsole
- True to size
Pros:
- An attractive athletic design
- Superior cushioning for many hours of use
- Affordable model
- Can be customized to improve comfort
- Extremely lightweight for running, elliptical exercises, and other activities
Cons:
- A slight dip in quality compared to its first version (V1)
Many true sportsman consumers rate New Balance Men’s 517 V2 Cross Trainer so high. This hybrid athletic shoe comes at the top of our list because it is wide, comfortable, and has superb arch support for overpronators.
2. Reebok Women’s Crossfit Nano 8
Unlike men, women mostly have narrow feet and most of them have found Reebok Women’s Crossfit Nano 8 to be a dependable partner in several workouts.
Out of the Nano line (Starting with Nano 1), Nano 8 is an epitome of perfection, followed by Nano 2. It’s easy to see why. First, Flexweave stretch technology makes this shoe look flashy and ultra-stylish. However, according to Reebok, this technology turns the shoe into an 8-figure design that results in improved breathability, durability, and lightweight performance.
Another key update that makes this model appealing is the forefoot flex grooves. No matter how much bending, stretching, and running you do, Reebok Women’s Crossfit Nano 8 will provide all the flexibility you can dream of. The Toe Tection technology strengthens the toe region which also adds to the durability.
High arch trainers often torture their heel because their foot shape compels them to bear extra weight. Thankfully, Nano 8 features a heel bootie construction that reinforces the heel reading it for impact absorption. Lastly, the lightweight, low-cut design of this shoe will allow you to perform as many exercises as you want.
Features
- Rubber outsole
- Synthetic top
- Flexweave stretch technology
- Low-cut design
- Cushioned heel
- Over ten color selections
Pros:
- Ultra-lightweight and flexible design
- Comfortable for many demanding workouts
- Extremely versatile
- Fully breathable
- Engineered to last long
Cons:
- Not ideal for running
Reebok Women’s Crossfit Nano 8 bootie heel construction and responsive construction makes it perfect shoes for high arches. The shoe’s bounce back is on a whole new level. The best news so far-it is positively rated by many reviewers.
3. Puma Men’s Tazon 6 Cross-Trainer
Puma Men’s Tazon 6 Cross-Trainer is a favorite cross-trainer among seasoned workout gurus and sports legends. From way back, Puma has had their pulse on top-craftsmanship that can still be seen in this pair.
For comfort, this trainer features lightweight padding on the overlays as well as the opening. One reviewer also described the rubber outsole as ‘pillow-soft’ and thus capable of absorbing impact on hard gym floors. Additionally, the sole bears pronounced treads to keep you steady and stable.
Puma Men’s Tazon 6 Cross-Trainer does not feature so many air inlet vents but it’s breathable and there are no complaints about that. In the case of moisture build-up, the organic sockliner will deal with it.
And now to what matters-arch support. If you look at the design of Tazon 6, you will note a raised mid-base which together with the inherent insole fills your high arches for support and comfort. Unfortunately, the shoe tends to run narrow in the front so those with wide feet can go back to the New Balance option at the top.
Features
- 100% synthetic leather
- Rubber outsole
- Low-top design
- Around 5 color choices
- Lace-up cross-trainer
Pros:
- Seriously comfortable
- A flashy fashionable design
- Lightweight for extreme sports
- Superior traction
- You can get them for below $100
Cons:
- Narrow in the toes
Puma Men’s Tazon 6 Cross-Trainer is comfortable, durable, and truly supportive to people with high-arches. Its narrow design and lightweight construction allow the wearer to jog, jump, squat, cycling, weight-lifting, and other aerobic activities.
4. Inov-8 F-Lite 260 Knit
As the name suggests, Inov-8 F-Lite 260 Knit is the latest innovation geared towards cross-training, HIIT, and other conditioning workouts. From a look at its reviews, it is clear this is a go-to cross-trainer for deadlifting, jogging, plyometrics, running, and other indoor WODs.
Granted the top quality construction, this workout shoe can hold itself pretty well for several months. Whether you’ll be exercising indoors or outdoors, the breathable panels will keep your feet comfortably cool. Speaking of coziness, this cross-trainer features a generous amount of padding that doesn’t bump up the weight.
Inov-8 F-Lite 260 Knit also comes with next-generation META-FLEX technology. This adds the much needed multi-directional flexibility so the shoe can move with you in any direction and still regain its shape (without ripping apart thanks to sturdy synthetics.)
Last but not the least, this trainer for high arches comes with impeccable arch support, mid-foot lock-down, and a welded toe bumper for protection and impact absorption. The outsole’s traction is dependable for those who work out in smoothly-paved gyms.
Features
- Synthetic top
- Breathable mesh lining
- Sticky Grip rubber outsole
- Padded opening
- POWERFLOW midsole with energy-returning ability
- META-FLEX technology for flexibility
- External heel cage
- Welded toe bumpers
Pros:
- Cushioned ride
- Lightweight for agile performance
- Superior outsole grip
- Fully breathable
- Falls within the affordable
Cons:
- You need to go a half or full-size up
In every aspect of its construction, Inov-8 F-Lite 260 Knit speaks the language only cross-trainer enthusiasts understand. The shoe comes ready to provide top-level performance and for quite a long time. Make sure to size up by a half or full unit.
5. Ryka Women’s Influence Cross Training Shoe
Women looking for the best workout shoes for high arches should consider Ryka Women’s Influence Cross Training Shoe. This is one of the most spoken about shoes amongst female trainers and we will see shortly why.
Like we said before, cross-training workouts comprise of so many moves. Now, this Ryka pair features pivot points that make every turn and twist as smooth and effortless as possible. During these intense turns, you can count on the Direct-fuse and Flex-foil layers for unmatched support.
You will note that the shoes cushioning is trimmed down in favor of a light package and sleek looks-something ladies cherish. Nevertheless, the anatomical insole inside this pair offers supreme comfort and arch support for overpronators. Since Ryka Women’s Influence Cross Training Shoe is engineered based on women’s feet, a majority of them usually fit into it with no issues.
Features
- Fabric overlays
- 10+ color choices
- Dual-density N-Gage EVA midsole
- Flex-foil & DirectFuse supportive layers
- Tractioned outsole
- Low-top sneaker
Pros:
- Delivers better comfort standards
- Lightweight and flexible
- Breathable panels
- Unmatched support during exercise
- So many alluring color choices to choose from
Cons:
- Not entirely true to size. Go up by a half size
Ryka Women’s Influence Cross Training Shoe has so many positive reviews from previous users. This includes the latest reviews, meaning the shoe’s production standards are still as good as a few years ago. Any lady who does not wish to gamble with their money can settle for because it has the highest chances of fitting any feminine feet.
6. Under Armour Men’s Charged Commit 2.0 Cross Trainer
If you hit the gym practically every day then you’ve seen plenty of awesome Under Armor sneakers. One of their competent training shoe collections is none other than Under Armour Men’s Charged Commit 2.0 Cross Trainer.
Many people feel that the company did a solid job with this sneaker. Its design is downright amazing with a meshed top and dual external heel counters for support during intense workouts.
Under Armour Men’s Charged Commit 2.0 Cross Trainer, as the name suggests bears remarkable midsole cushioning. Yes-it’s actually on a whole new level and gives you the springy energy feedback that relentlessly takes you from your first to the last step.
Commit 2.0 comes with a wider toe front. This design together with the insane cushioning earns this kick a position among the best cross training shoes for bunions. We bet it can help those with tender feet issues get quick recovery as well.
Features
- Over 10 color choices
- Dual external heel counters
- Cushioned sockliner
- Meshed uppers
- Charged cushioning midsole
- Lace straps with a heel pull tab
Pros:
- Affordable pricing
- Lightweight performance
- Meshed for adequate air circulation
- Fancy color choices to keep your looks
- Supercharged cushioning
Cons:
- Not serious flaws reported
So far, the most recent customer reviews are heartwarming which means Under Armor is stepping up their game once again.
7. New Balance Women’s 608 V5 Cross Trainer
We started off with a top-rated New Balance comfort cross trainer and we are ending with another option for women. If the Ryka choice at the top seemed less equipped to handle strenuous workouts, then New Balance Women’s 608 V5 Cross Trainer will suffice as a better replacement.
Bearing a conventional running shoe silhouette, this cross training shoe packs quite a lot of comfort-enhancing features. These include padded opening, IMEVA midsole cushioning, and the premium ABZORB reinforcement in the crash pad. So yeah, we believe this shoe will handle all those advanced workout moves without flinching.
New Balance Women’s 608 V5 Cross Trainer tries to maintain a firm design but without compromising flexibility. For durability, the top boasts of premium leather while a shank is placed internally for additional support that keeps the shoe together during a workout.
Features
- Leather top
- ABZORB crash pad cushioning
- Rubber outsole
- Cushioned collar and tongue
- IMEVA midsole
- Internal shank
- Lace-up sneaker
Pros:
- Extremely comfortable
- Designed to last a lot longer than most cross trainers
- Comfortable and arch-supporting insert
- Exists in affordable models
- Flexible performance
- Lightweight
Cons:
- The available colors are a little meh for a feminine shoe
The number of positive feedback on New Balance Women’s 608 V5 Cross Trainer is simply overwhelming. We believe this pair is one of the boldest workout shoes for high arches out there that can withstand hell (not literal, though). You really should check it out it’s a piece of work.
Things to Consider While Shopping For Cross-Training Shoes for High Arches
Cross-training shoes are designed to support multiple activities. But this does not mean each option you come across will. There are some variations in features, design, and prices. Here are a few things you need to be on the lookout for when looking around for some trainers.
Weight
Cross trainers are workout shoes that you could use for long-distance running, cycling, yoga, aerobics, and a few other sports. So it makes sense that they weigh as little as possible. Bulky shoes will get in the way of performing high-impact exercises.
Material
The best training shoes for high arches should feature tough material that can handle a thorough beating. This is because, unlike running shoes, these ones are designed for a wide range of activities. However, sometimes sturdy material can bring some additional weight with it or cost a lot.
Arch support
Given that you have a high arch, then arch support comes at the top of your checklist. The best cross-training shoe must close the gap between the shoe surface and the top of your arch so it doesn’t get strained. Additionally, these shoes must support the use of custom insoles so you can modify them to provide the best experience.
Comfort
Running, jumping, squatting and practically all other workout activities put your feet through a lot. This explains why many shoes feature responsive cushioning.
Lately, shoes don’t just feature more padding. Instead, unique technologies like memory foam and Adida’s lightweight Ultraboost provide exceptional cushioning without adding too much weight to the shoe.
Durability
You need value for your hard-earned money, right? This means the high arch cross training shoes that you buy must live up to those expectations. However, most exercise shoes are usually spent after 5-6 months or 100 hours of work out sessions. This duration can be longer or shorter depending on how often you work out and the amount of strain you put your shoes through.
Shoes that have a higher number of positive reviews from previous buyers are likely to be of outstanding quality. This and the material used can help you to gauge how long the shoe will last.
Breathability
All work out shoes must promote better air circulation. This is why many of them feature a meshed construction.
Traction
Since cross-training involves a wide range of activities, it is imperative for a shoe to have a grippy outsole quality. This will prevent you from slipping and falling on slippery and wet surfaces.
Frequently Asked Questions
a) When should you replace cross training shoes?
Cross-training shoes are designed to operate for up to a hundred hours. This translates to 5 to 6 months of use. It could be longer or shorter depending on the quality of the shoe, frequency of use, type, and intensity of the workout.
Once the foam padding on your cross-training shoes thin out and other parts tear up, it’s better to replace them for your safety and protection.
b) Should you run with your cross training shoes?
While cross training shoes are meant to handle so many activities, running is not one of them. Rather, these shoes can only accommodate sprints and other short runs involved in hybrid work out sessions. Running shoes come with supremely thick and tough cushioning that most cross training shoes lack.
c) When should I use cross training shoes?
Apart from short runs, you can use cross training shoes for weightlifting, elliptical training, basketball, tennis, walking, dancing, squatting, and any other activity that needs flexibility, comfort, and stability.
Conclusion
The best cross training shoes for high arches can help you train in comfort for many hours. They can help you get in shape and achieve all your fitness goals without stopping to attend to painful feet.
Not all high arch cross training shoes are the same. They are going to vary in quality and price which is why it is best to take some time to research all your top options. Yes, there’s a dizzying array of them and this can get confusing. But hey, you just read through some cool choices at the top so why not focus on a few of them?
One more thing. Before settling on a pair, make sure to consider all your existing foot conditions like bunions, plantar fasciitis, etc. this way, you can spend money once on a great pair instead of spending on different pairs or having to deal with returns. This marks the end of this review and we hope you find what you are looking for. If we have forgotten to mention anything, just let us know through the comment box below.