Long days of walking while traveling can be painful for people with flat feet or low arches, but the right footwear may help. A travel writer says a physical therapist pointed out that worn areas on her shoes suggested overpronation, prompting her to look for shoes with more arch support.
The writer reports that the discomfort first appeared on days with lots of walking and became more significant after she took up long-distance running. A 3-D foot scan at a Fleet Feet store in Hoboken, New Jersey, showed differences in the length and width of her feet, with both arches at the lowest end of the scale. She says the experience underscored the value of trying shoes in person: there is no single supportive style that suits everyone.
The article presents 15 options across sneakers, hiking boots, boots, loafers and flats. It also advises readers with severe or persistent issues to consult a healthcare professional, citing the writer’s experience with posterior tibial tendinitis after a half marathon.
Jenny Simpson, a three-time Olympian and Fleet Feet’s chief running officer, says people with tired or uncomfortable feet may benefit from more supportive footwear, not only those with flat feet. Low or flexible arches may respond well to stability shoes, while high, rigid arches may need more cushioning. Simpson recommends judging how a shoe feels on the foot, including whether the arch support meets the arch and the heel feels secure.
Simpson says the best choice for arch or heel pain depends on its cause and on whether a person needs cushioning, stability or both. Insoles can offer a more tailored option, while additional cushioning may make standing and walking more comfortable for some people with plantar fasciitis-related heel pain.
For travel, Simpson points to running and walking brands including Brooks, Hoka, Asics, New Balance and Saucony, while cautioning that models from the same brand can fit differently. Her advice is to choose based on the individual fit and intended activity rather than a brand name or a label such as “supportive” or “orthopedic.”
Sources: Condé Nast Traveler.