Best Women's Sandals For High Arches in 2025 (Podiatrist Approved)

Finding the right sandals can feel like a never-ending challenge, especially when you have high arches. You want something that looks good, feels great, and supports your feet without causing more problems. That’s where podiatrist-recommended sandals come in. Whether running errands, heading out for a casual brunch, or just trying to stay comfortable on a daily walk, the right pair of orthopedic sandals can make all the difference. Here, you can explore the best women’s sandals for high arches in 2025, supported by podiatrists’ recommendations and real comfort features so you can finally walk easily and confidently.

What High Arches Are Like?

The condition of high arches is opposite to flat feet, in which you have such a visible arch in your feet that a part of your feet can not touch the floor even while standing straight. When the feet of people with high arches leave a footprint on the ground, you may observe that the middle portion of their feet does not leave any mark due to their inability to touch the ground.  

Usually, such feet are thought to be more attractive due to their curvy shape, but in actuality, they are a foot problem that leads to several issues in the overall body. Some standard features you may note in the feet with high arches include

• Higher than usual arch in the foot.
• Severe foot pain after standing for a while.
• High pressure on the heel while walking.
• Difficulty in walking with stability.

Causes of High Arches

You may develop the problem of high arches mainly due to the following reasons:

Genetic factors

One or both of your parents have the problem, and genetic factors are involved in causing this problem.

Birth Defects

Any deformity during the early stages of development, such as spina bifida, where the spine fails to develop correctly, may be a notable reason for this issue. 

Muscular deformity

You are born with healthy feet, but later in life, any muscular damage, particularly in the lower body, may cause this problem. Issues in your spinal cord can also cause your feet to develop high arches. 

Neuromuscular damage

Any damage to your nervous system, such as a stroke, can cause damage to muscle movement, possibly leading to this foot issue. 

Common Problems Due to High Arches

The condition of high arches, if prolonged without treatment, can give rise to many other problems, including;

Neuroma

Because the high arch places the body's weight on the heels, a nerve can become excessively stretched, causing Morton's neuroma. Here are the common symptoms of neuroma you may feel;

1. Severe pain in your toes
2. Tingling sensation
3. The feeling of a stone being placed inside your shoe

Bunions

Another common issue that people with high arches may develop is the bunion condition. With an excessively lifted arch, more of the body's weight pressure goes to the peripheral side of the foot, making the big toe bend inward. You can experience the following signs at the onset of bunions

1. A bony bump just below the big toe
2. Unbearable pain and stiffness in the foot joint
3. Inability to wear shoes that are tightly fitted. 

Ankle Sprains

People with high arches can not walk stably, and their body weight results in frequent foot inversion while walking. As a result, the ligaments in their muscles feel stressed, causing ankle sprains. This condition makes you suffer from

1. Intense pain and swelling around the ankle.
2. Inability of the ankle to show movement.

Plantar Fasciitis

Plantar fasciitis occurs when the muscle connecting your heel and the toes gets too stressed due to the arch and ground not touching. When the remedial actions for high arches are not taken, the affected individuals have to face

1. Severe pain in your lower foot.  
2. Inability to stand for more extended periods. 

Things to Look for In Sandals With High Arch Support

Feet with high arches have some special requirements that the brands cater to while manufacturing. Here are these special features you should never overlook while choosing shoes for high arches;

Durability

If you are someone with high arches, it is obvious that your sandals will have to bear some extra pressure on specific points continuously. So, you should not choose delicacy when buying a sandal; instead, choose highly durable options that can withstand excess wear. 

Arch Support

When you are getting footwear specifically for your lifted arches, the primary thing you should notice is good arch support. Look for sandals with built-in arch support that can adjust to the curve of your feet. A well-built arch support can reduce excess pressure on your heel. 

Flexible Sole

Your best sandals for high arches should have a firm sole that supports your high arch, but also consider flexibility. Sandals that can bend around the toe area are preferable to relieve severe pain by making walking comfortable and easy. 

Adjustable Strap

Shoes with an adjustable strap are a helpful choice as they can comfortably fit around your foot shape while offering a secure grip during walking. Choose sandals with Velcro or buckles that prevent the shoes from slipping and sliding during your walk. 

Breathable Material

If you suffer from such foot conditions, your feet are already experiencing sharp pain. You can not now wear sandals with rigid material that increases the pain when you rub your skin. So, always go for lightweight, soft, and breathable material that does not make your feet feel suffocated while wearing them. 

Cushioning

High arches don’t absorb shock well, so extra cushioning is key. Look for sandals with a soft yet responsive footbed, preferably memory foam or EVA foam, that gives you cloud-like comfort and relieves pressure points.

Spacious

Too tight shoes can worsen your foot pain, and even if you suffer from bunions, it can increase the swelling in your bony bump. So, always wear sandals that are true to your size but have enough room to adjust your foot without making it swollen. 

Top APMA-Approved Footwear Brands for High Arches

When getting footwear for people with a problem of high arches, you should not buy anything casually. Instead, research and pick the names approved by credible sources or have podiatrists' recommendations. 

Here, you can see a list of brands that offer a variety of footwear, including sandals, slides, slippers, and clogs, catering to the needs of people suffering from different foot conditions.

• Aerothotic
• Orthofeet
• Hoka
• Brooks
• ASICS

Best Sandals for High Arches

Here are some amazing sandals for women. Aerothotic offers excellent arch support and other features that make feet comfortable and improve walking.

Aerothotic Seraph Comfortable Women’s Slide Sandals

Aerothotic Seraph Comfortable Women’s Slide Sandals are a fantastic option for females who want relief while being trendy. This pair of sandals never feels out of style due to their versatile build that suits different outfits. 

Why Consider It?

You may consider it a preferable sandal to get relief from high arches, as;

• The lightweight sandals are prepared using cosy and breathable material that doesn’t put extra stress on your feet. 

• Two adjustable straps with metallic buckles secure your feet in a custom-like grip.

• An arch support with comfortable cushioning material makes the long, tiresome walks a cosy experience. 

• A deep heel cup wraps nicely around your foot heel, preventing it from extra stress. 

• A slip-resistant outsole that provides a stable and balanced walk and saves you from slips, which is a common problem with high arches. 

Aerothotic Viking Strappy Sandal

With various color options, including sky blue, silver, beige, brown, and black, Aerothotic Viking Strappy Sandals do not let you compromise on style. These sandals are a wardrobe staple for looks and comfort, from vegan leather straps to a contoured cork footbed.

Why Consider It?

Here are some reasons the Viking Strappy Sandal can help you with high arches;

• The arch support it offers ensures your feet get the body weight evenly without pressurising specific points. 

• A cork footbed that adjusts with your foot curves that are too notable due to high arches. 

• Rust buckles on the adjustable straps allow true-to-size fitting for feet with different widths. 

• The EVA outsole supports the foot with an added cushion layer.

• Its lightweight material and comfortable design reflect your balanced walk and improved posture. 

Aerothotic Eden Non-Slip Comfortable Thong Sandals for Women

For your routine footwear options, Aerothotic offers Eden Non-Slip Comfortable Thong Sandals for Women that also come in various colors. Women with long working hours can wear it as their casual daily wear. 

Why Consider It?

It can be a good pick for the following reasons;

• The inner lining offers quick-drying material, saving your feet from sweating and itchiness. 

• The super lightweight material makes walking around, even with high arches, a painless and fun activity. 

• Its spacious width of 3.5 inches gives your feet enough room to adjust without tightening your muscles or swelling your joints. 

• A moderate heel of less than an inch supports your lifted arch even more. 

• The rubber outsole helps you maintain balance while walking as it is slip-resistant. 

Aerothotic Enhalus Women’s Sandal

Another fantastic option to complement your everyday casual look is the Aerothotic Enhalus Women’s Sandal. Whether a beach tour or a typical routine day, these lightweight and comfy sandals with easy-peasy material can improve your experience.

Why Consider It?

• With just 0.65lb of weight, it offers breathable material that doesn’t burden your feet.

• A polyurethane gel-infused midsole molds to the arches of your feet, offering targeted support and long-lasting durability.

• With a width of approximately 3.5”, they also provide ample space for your foot to rest comfortably. 

• Soft, padded mesh straps and memory foam act as a cushion, keeping your feet comfortable without irritation.

• A moderate heel elevates your feet a bit, which, combined with the proper arch support, is suitable for relieving foot pain and offering your feet the ultimate comfort. 

The Bottom Line

Choosing the right sandals for people with high arches isn’t just about comfort. It’s about protecting your feet from long-term issues. As seen with many foot conditions linked to high arches, the wrong footwear can worsen over time. It’s essential to look for sandals with substantial arch support, a stable sole, and enough space for your foot to rest naturally. Even small details like adjustable straps and soft materials can make a big difference in daily comfort. Attention to these features can help manage pain, improve balance, and support better posture in the long run.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where should your feet sit in sandals?

A reliable sandal for high arches should adjust your whole foot with a sound grip around your upper foot. Your heel should lie comfortably in the heel bed with toes at a reasonable distance from the front. 

Do sandals flatten your feet?

Not necessarily, but if you wear too flat sandals that lack arch support, they can flatten your feet. Also, flat sandals can cause intense pain and fatigue if you have high arches. 

How do I know if I have high arches?

Frequent foot pain, unbalanced walk, and repeated ankle sprains are notable signs of high arches. Moreover, if the middle of your lower feet does not touch the ground while standing, you may consider it due to high arches. 

How long should a good pair of orthopedic sandals last?

Though the life of footwear varies based on the material used and how you use it, good footwear should last for at least two seasons if you wear it frequently. 

What shoes should you avoid for high arches?

You should avoid footwear with too slim soles or a lack of arch support. Flip-flops or shoes with no cushioning are also not good options for people with high arches.