Boots Can Cause Major Damage to Your Feet if You Need Arch Support—These Ones Are Podiatrist-Approved (2024)

Sizes: 6-11

Looking for a stylish, classic boot that comes in a variety of color options AND offers support? Perkins says that although the heel is a little high, it’s nice and wide making it an overall good choice. This chunky-heeled boot has a back zip closure for easy fitting, and is made with leather upper and lining with a rubber sole.

Colors: 3

Materials: leather, rubber

Pros:

• Back zip closure
• Slouchy design
• Sturdy rubber sole

Cons:

• Pricey

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Sizes: 5-12, in half sizes and two widths

These all-weather boots are sleek, with a quilted design and water-resistant rubber shell for versatility. There are rawhide laces and a side zipper to make them easy to put on and take off. Dr. Lee says they fit like a shoe but have support like a boot. They’re a great option if you’re looking for less clunky rain boots, too.

Colors: 6

Materials: leather or nylon, fleece, rubber

Pros:

• All-weather construction
• Water-resistant rubber shell
• Affordable

Cons:

• Polarizing style

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Sizes: 6-10, in half sizes

With a striking red sole, this Donna Karan lug boot is a must for your winter wishlist. Not only does Perkins say it has great arch support throughout, but it’s an excellent boot for walking around all day (especially in the city or if you do a lot of walking on pavement). The DKNY lug sole Chelsea boot features a stylish high top that gives the perfect height for any outfit, a web panel design on the sides, and a closed round toe. The upper is made of 100 percent leather, the outsole is constructed of rubber, and the lining is crafted with pure polyurethane.

Colors: 2

Materials: leather, rubber, polyurethane

Pros:

• Great traction
• Comfortable
• Spacious round toe

Cons:

• Chunky

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Sizes: 5-12, in half sizes

These hiking boots will protect your feet from the outside elements all while offering comfort for your arches. These are nice and lightweight, which makes them ideal for packing. And although they’re on the lighter side, they still offer 100g insulation and warmth (thanks to their microfleece lining and seam-sealed waterproof craftsmanship). You’ll also find that they’re supremely comfortable, thanks to their EVA footbed, which gives you a bouncy step. Wear them in rain or snow—SOREL’s scallop sole will give you the traction you need to combat any kind of rough weather. Bonus: They also come in three different colors.

Colors: 3

Materials: waterproof suede/leather, rubber

Pros:

• Hidden wedge heel
• Comfortable arch support
• Waterproof design

Cons:

• Pricey

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Sizes: 5-12, in half sizes

Whether you’re walking in the rain or the snow, these UGG boots will keep your feet warm, cozy, and dry. Dr. Lee says these waterproof boots for women have good arch support, and they also fit like a shoe, making them extra comfortable. With faux fur lining, these boots will be your go-to cold-weather shoe.

Colors: 2

Materials: leather, wool/faux fur, rubber

Pros:

• Waterproof
• Warm
• Comfortable

Cons:

• Expensive
• Run small

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Sizes: 5-12, in half sizes and two widths

With a supportive midsole and advanced traction, these Columbia boots are ready for any adventure in the snow and beyond. They have waterproof leather, textile upper, and waterproof seam construction to keep the wet out. And they’re lightweight and have insulation to keep your feet warm without weighing them down. Dr. Lee says they’re comfortable and easy to walk in.

Colors: 5

Materials: waterproof leather and textile, rubber

Pros:

• Waterproof
• Affordable
• Insulated

Cons:

• Not as versatile as other options

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Sizes: 6-12

Let’s face it: walking in long socks and boots can make your feet pretty sweaty. These Bogs boots have sweat-wicking technology and odor control, to make sure your feet stay fresh and dry. They have handles on the side so you don’t have to struggle getting them on and off your feet, and Dr. Lee says the outer sole is more stable than other Bog styles, which makes these great for traction.

Colors: 2

Materials: knit upper, 7mm Neo-Tech insulation, faux fur lining

Pros:

• Sweat-wicking
• Side pulls for easy on-and-off
• Great traction

Cons:

• They don’t come in a lot of colors
• Whole sizes only

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Sizes: 6-11, in half sizes

While some of the options on our list can support soles with plantar fasciitis, none quite compare to the Kuru Luna Boots. These boots are specifically designed with heel health in mind and feature dual-density arch support and heel-hugging technology for long-lasting comfort and support. We love them because, in addition to their comfort, they’re actually designed for walking, making them a good commuter boot, too.

Colors: 2

Materials: leather

Pros:

• Designed with heel health in mind
• Dual-density arch support
• Versatile

Cons:

• Pricey
• Only two colors

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Sizes: 5-10, in half sizes

If you’re looking for a splurge-worthy sole-mate, consider an option with both comfort and style. We love the Stuart Weitzman Soho Pearl Chelsea Bootie because it features a functional design with lug sole detailing for lots of support and durability while walking. The boots are also constructed from a gorgeous leather material that looks and feels luxe—and will only get better with time. Additionally, it adds a touch of flair with studded pearl stones for some sparkle.

Colors: 1

Materials: leather, textile

Pros:

• Combines style and function
• Luxe
• Lug sole for traction

Cons:

• Expensive
• Only one color

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If you love a platform heel, you can’t go wrong with these adorable Chelsea boots from Sorel. The waterproof platform boots feature a comfortable block heel with Sorel’s signature lug-sole texture for added traction and support. The rubber sole also adds a layer of stability to the overall design, so you can easily strut down the street without worrying about slipping or tripping—even when it’s pouring rain. On top of that, these boots have a removable insole so you can add your own orthotics for more customized comfort.

• Materials: Rubber, EVA, leather
• Sizes: 5-12
• Colors: Black and white, black and green

Pros:

• The removable insole.
• The signature traction.
• The durable rubber sole.

Cons:

• They might be too tall for some preferences.

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This boot is great for high arches and PERFECT for people with plantar fasciitis, according to Perkins. “I love that it has a wedge which supports the fascia ligament throughout its entire course,” she says. Bonus: These microfiber lace-ups are made with a plant-based BLOOM foam insole, which gives extra support. That wedge-heel sole is what you’re looking for when it comes to supreme lift.

• Materials: microsuede or fabric made from recycled bottles, heel made from recycled materials
• Sizes: 6.5-11
• Colors: black, olive

Pros:

• The wedge design supports the fascia ligament.
• The plant-based construction.
• The price.

Cons:

• They don’t come in a lot of colors.

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Sizes: 5-11, in half sizes and two widths

These chic, leather combat boots pair well with anything from dresses to jeans. “The Vionic brand was developed by a Podiatrist and approved by the American Podiatric Medical Association,” says Perkins. “You can’t go wrong with this brand!” It’s recommended that you break these in for a few hours (we suggest wearing thicker socks to stretch the leather a bit) before walking around in them. This is best practice for just about any shoe, but especially for orthotic shoes.

Colors: 2

Materials: microsuede or fabric made from recycled bottles, heel made from recycled materials

Pros:

• Eco-friendly construction
• Long-lasting support
• American Podiatric Medical Association-approved

Cons:

• Pricey

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Sizes: 5.5-11, in half sizes

For a pair of classic lace-up boots that also happen to provide ample arch support and long-lasting comfort, consider the Timberland Kinsley Waterproof Boots. They boast a block heel design, come in four different colors—including a chic all-black option—and sizes 5.5-11. Since Timberland is known for its workboots, you can expect the same all-day comfort and durable construction but with a more stylish silhouette. We love them because you can easily dress them up or down, and they’re a good option for the office on cold, rainy days.

Colors: 3

Materials: Waterproof leather, textile

Pros:

• Waterproof
• Comfortable
• Affordable

Cons:

• Heel might be too tall for some preferences

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Sizes: 5-11, in half sizes

Don’t be fooled by the two-inch heel. You’ll never guess these stylish suede booties have orthopedic support. They’re also weather-resistant, thanks to the treated suede material. Easily slide them on using the side zipper—and don’t worry about your toes getting cramped, as the brand’s Meta Dome toebox distributes pressure evenly.

Colors: 2

Materials: suede, man-made heel

Pros:

• Stable and arch-supportive
• Stylish
• Side zipper for easy on-and-off

Cons:

• Pricey

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Sizes: 6-11, in half sizes

Not only are these Dr. Scholl’s boots comfy and supportive, they’re also sustainably made from recycled bottles. Made from microsuede, these chunky boots are sleek, stylish, and they’re versatile enough to pair with any ensemble.

Colors: 3

Materials: microsuede or fabric made from recycled bottles

Pros:

• Recycled materials
• Affordable
• Versatile

Cons:

• Limited half-sizing

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Sizes: 5-10

These tall boots will look incredible with leggings or jeans, and offer ample support thanks to its cushioned footbed and Aetrex’s renowned arch support. These leather boots feature a side-zip closure for slipping on and off.

Colors: 1

Pros:

• Cushioned footbed
• Spacious toe box
• Size zipper for easy on-and-off

Cons:

• Expensive
• No half sizing

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Sizes: 6-11, in half sizes

These knee-high boots have memory foam insoles and are available in a wider calf option. Made of synthetic leather (including the sole), this is a great option if you’re looking for a vegan option.

Colors: 2

Materials: synthetic leather, memory foam

Pros:

• Memory foam insoles
• Vegan construction
• Affordable

Cons:

• Limited color options

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Sizes: 5.5-12, in half sizes

Tired of boot shafts that don’t zip or bunch? Meet the Vulianns. The wide-calf design of these boots ensures a perfect fit for all-day wear, while its sleek silhouette and durable construction add a timeless addition to any wardrobe. Warning: They sell out fast, so get them while you can.

Colors: 3

Materials: leather, synthetic sole

(For more wide-calf styles, check out our roundup of the best boots for bigger calves.)

Pros:

• Designed for wide calfs
• Side zipper for easy on-and-off
• Versatile

Cons:

• Pricey
• Limited sizing available

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