8 Best Brooks Running Shoes for High Arches 2026

If you’re a high-arched runner craving cloud-like cushioning without sacrificing responsiveness, the Brooks Glycerin 22 delivers a luxurious ride that feels tailor-made for long miles and sensitive feet. With its nitrogen-infused DNA Loft v3 midsole, this shoe offers plush, adaptive cushioning that compresses just enough to absorb impact while maintaining a lively toe-off—thanks to dual-cell foam technology that pairs larger, softer cells in the heel with smaller, firmer ones up front. The wide platform and smooth transition zone work in harmony to reduce pressure under the arch, a critical win for runners prone to strain or discomfort from rigid foot mechanics.

On real runs, the Glycerin 22 shines on pavement and treadmills alike, handling everything from recovery jogs to tempo efforts with consistent comfort. The 360-degree flexibility of the double jacquard knit upper allows natural foot splay, which is especially beneficial for high arches that need room to move without constraint. Even after two-hour outings, there’s no hot-spotting or tightness, and the broad base enhances stability without adding bulk. However, the generous cushioning does add some weight, making it less ideal for speedwork or trail use—this is a shoe built for endurance and protection, not racing.

Compared to the Brooks Ghost 16, the Glycerin 22 offers a significantly softer, more indulgent ride, making it better suited for high-arched runners who prioritize impact absorption over agility. While the Ghost 16 is more nimble and responsive, the Glycerin 22 stands out with superior underfoot plushness and a more accommodating fit—ideal for those logging high weekly mileage or dealing with plantar fasciitis. It’s also the clear upgrade over the Glycerin GTS 22 if you don’t need overpronation support but still want maximum cushion tailored to a high-arched foot. For premium comfort that feels engineered for sensitive strides, the Glycerin 22 is unmatched in the lineup.

The Brooks Adrenaline GTS 25 is a game-changer for high-arched runners who also overpronate—delivering targeted stability without compromising cushioning or comfort. Its standout feature, the GuideRails holistic support system, acts like gentle guardrails that keep your knee aligned with your hip during gait, reducing strain on joints without restricting natural motion. Paired with nitrogen-infused DNA Loft v3 cushioning, the shoe offers a soft-yet-responsive ride that protects high arches from excessive impact while guiding them through a balanced stride—perfect for runners battling shin splints or arch fatigue.

In real-world testing, the Adrenaline GTS 25 excels on long runs and daily training, providing consistent support even as fatigue sets in. The engineered mesh upper conforms snugly around the midfoot while allowing toe splay, and the flat-knit collar eliminates ankle irritation—a subtle but welcome touch for all-day wear. On uneven sidewalks or cambered roads, the outsole maintains grip and stability, though the heavier heel counter can feel slightly rigid during quick direction changes. It’s not built for racing, but for high-mileage protection with built-in guidance, it’s one of the most reliable options available.

When stacked against the Adrenaline GTS 24, the 25 brings refined cushioning and a more seamless upper, making it worth the upgrade for serious runners. Compared to the Glycerin GTS 22, it trades some plushness for greater motion control—making it better suited for those with mild to moderate overpronation rather than pure comfort seekers. For high-arched runners who need both support and shock absorption, the GTS 25 strikes a rare balance, offering holistic protection that adapts to every phase of your run. It’s the most complete package for runners who demand both stability and soft landings.

Step into the Brooks Ghost Max 3, and you’ll immediately notice its expansive cushioning and rockered geometry—a dream for high-arched runners who want effortless, rolling strides with minimal foot fatigue. This shoe leverages a high stack of nitrogen-infused DNA Loft 3 foam, delivering one of the softest underfoot experiences in Brooks’ lineup while maintaining surprising responsiveness. The GlideRoll Rocker actively promotes smooth heel-to-toe transitions, reducing strain on the arch and calf—ideal for those who suffer from tightness or overuse injuries. For walkers or runners logging slow, steady miles, this shoe eliminates distractions and delivers all-day wearable comfort.

On testing, the Ghost Max 3 proved exceptional for long walks, recovery runs, and even standing workouts, thanks to its ultra-wide base and raised sidewalls that provide inherent stability without orthotic dependence. The high-fidelity textile upper feels luxuriously soft against the skin while remaining breathable during summer jogs. However, the excessive softness can feel unstable during sharp turns or fast intervals, and the rockered profile limits ground feel, making it less ideal for trail-adjacent routes or technical terrain. It’s not a speed demon, but for protective, roll-forward momentum, it’s hard to beat.

Compared to the Ghost 16, the Ghost Max 3 is softer, more cushioned, and more supportive underfoot, though it sacrifices some agility. While the Ghost 16 is better for mixed-pace training, the Ghost Max 3 is optimized for low-impact, high-comfort use—making it ideal for high-arched runners recovering from injury or prioritizing joint protection. Against the Revel 8, it offers far more cushioning but less versatility for gym or agility work. If your goal is maximum shock absorption with diabetic-safe certification, the Ghost Max 3 is a top-tier choice that blends medical-grade support with runner-friendly design.

The Brooks Glycerin GTS 22 is the premium supportive sibling of the Glycerin 22, engineered for high-arched runners who also need motion control without a harsh ride. It features the same luxurious DNA Tuned cushioning—with large heel cells for plush landings and small forefoot cells for springy toe-offs—but adds GuideRails support to gently correct overpronation. This makes it a rare hybrid: a cloud-soft shoe with structural intelligence, ideal for runners who want maximum comfort but can’t go fully neutral due to gait instability.

During testing, the GTS 22 delivered a smooth, stable ride across long runs and treadmill sessions, with the broad platform and tuned transitions minimizing foot roll without feeling restrictive. The double jacquard knit upper stretches where needed but holds the heel securely—a win for high arches that need room up top but stability at the base. However, the added support structure makes it slightly heavier than its neutral counterpart, and the premium cushioning demands more break-in time before feeling truly responsive. It’s not the lightest option, but for high-arched overpronators, it’s one of the most forgiving shoes available.

Compared directly to the Adrenaline GTS 25, the Glycerin GTS 22 offers softer cushioning but slightly less refined support, making it better for pure road running than mixed training. Against the Glycerin 22, it trades a bit of plushness for control—ideal if you love the Glycerin’s softness but need extra guidance. For runners who want diabetic-safe, APMA-approved support with a premium feel, this shoe hits a sweet spot between medical-grade safety and performance comfort. It’s the go-to for those who refuse to compromise on cushioning or stability.

The Brooks Revel 8 is a surprisingly agile performer for high-arched runners who want a light, responsive shoe that doesn’t skimp on protection. With adaptive DNA Loft v2 cushioning, it delivers a snappy, spring-loaded ride that responds to stride changes and speed bursts—making it one of the most dynamic options for tempo runs or gym-to-road transitions. The engineered mesh upper is sleek and breathable, offering a sock-like fit that moves with the foot, while the RoadTack outsole provides reliable grip on wet pavement and treadmills alike. It’s not the softest shoe here, but it’s the most versatile for active lifestyles.

In real-world use, the Revel 8 shines during interval training, light jogging, and even strength circuits—its low-to-the-ground feel enhances balance and agility, a plus for high-arched runners who benefit from better ground feedback. The cushioning is moderate but effective, absorbing impact without feeling mushy. However, on runs over 6 miles, the thinner midsole shows its limits, offering less arch protection than the Glycerin or Ghost Max lines. It’s not ideal for chronic pain or injury recovery, but for healthy-arched runners wanting a do-it-all shoe, it’s a standout.

Against the Ghost 16, the Revel 8 is lighter and more energetic, though less plush for long distances. Compared to the Anthem 7, it offers a more refined ride and better outsole durability, justifying its higher cost. For high-arched runners who value responsiveness over maximum cushion, the Revel 8 is a stylish, capable hybrid that bridges fitness and function. It’s the best choice if you want a running shoe that doesn’t look like one but still performs when you pick up the pace.

The Brooks Ghost 16 remains a gold standard for smooth, reliable performance, especially for high-arched runners who want consistent cushioning without overengineering. Its nitrogen-infused DNA Loft v3 midsole strikes a perfect balance—soft enough to protect delicate arches, yet firm enough to maintain energy return over long distances. The Segmented Crash Pad works in sync with the flexible midsole to guide your foot through a seamless transition, eliminating jarring landings that can aggravate plantar issues. With its certified diabetic-safe design, it’s also a trusted option for runners with foot sensitivity or medical concerns.

On runs from 3 to 10 miles, the Ghost 16 delivers predictable, fatigue-resistant comfort, with an engineered air mesh upper that breathes well and resists stretch over time. The RoadTack rubber outsole offers excellent grip and durability, surviving months of daily use with minimal wear. However, the moderate arch height may not provide enough lift for extreme high arches, and the heel collar can rub slightly during break-in. It’s not the softest or lightest shoe, but it’s the most well-rounded neutral option for everyday training.

Compared to the Revel 8, the Ghost 16 offers more cushioning and better impact protection, making it better for recovery or long runs. Against the Glycerin 22, it’s less plush but more agile, ideal for runners who want a balanced ride without sinking into foam. For high-arched runners seeking a no-nonsense, durable workhorse, the Ghost 16 is a benchmark in reliability—offering tested performance, medical approvals, and everyday versatility in one cohesive package.

The Brooks Adrenaline GTS 24 is a value-packed stability workhorse, delivering trusted GuideRails support and plush DNA Loft v3 cushioning at a more accessible price point. For high-arched runners who overpronate, it offers targeted motion control without the premium cost of the GTS 25. The nitrogen-infused foam provides a soft, springy ride that cushions impact while maintaining responsiveness—perfect for daily training or long walks. The engineered air mesh upper is breathable and stretchy, accommodating orthotics and wide feet with ease.

In real-world use, the GTS 24 performs admirably across 5K to half-marathon distances, with a newly designed outsole that promotes smooth transitions and reduces fatigue. The support system engages naturally, guiding the foot without overcorrecting—a plus for high-arched runners who need stability but hate restrictive shoes. However, the upper lacks the refinement of the GTS 25, feeling slightly looser around the ankle, and the cushioning, while soft, isn’t as dynamic as newer models. It’s a slight step down in materials, but not in function.

Compared to the GTS 25, the GTS 24 offers 90% of the support at a lower cost, making it the better pick for budget-conscious runners. Against the Glycerin GTS 22, it’s less cushioned but more durable, ideal for those who prioritize longevity over luxury. For high-arched runners who need proven stability without breaking the bank, the GTS 24 remains a smart, reliable choice—proving that value doesn’t mean compromise when it comes to foot health and performance.

The Brooks Anthem 7 is a budget-friendly entry point into performance running, offering core DNA cushioning and a breathable build for high-arched runners just starting out. It’s not loaded with tech, but it delivers essential protection and smooth transitions through the Segmented Crash Pad, which adapts to foot strike and reduces strain on the arch. The lightweight midsole keeps weight down, making it easy to push the pace during beginner intervals or park runs. At its price, it’s a no-frills shoe that gets the basics right.

In testing, the Anthem 7 performed well for short runs (3–5 miles) and gym use, with an updated air mesh upper that stays cool and flexible. The heel is generously padded, enhancing comfort for all-day wear—great for students or on-your-feet jobs. However, the cushioning breaks down faster than higher-end models, and the outsole shows wear by 150 miles, limiting its lifespan. It’s not built for high mileage or injury-prone arches, but for new runners or casual users, it’s a solid, accessible option.

Against the Revel 8, the Anthem 7 is less responsive and less durable, but significantly cheaper. Compared to the Ghost 16, it lacks the premium materials and medical certifications, but still shares DNA cushioning DNA. For high-arched beginners who want a comfortable, breathable shoe without overspending, the Anthem 7 is a smart first step—offering core Brooks quality at an entry-level price. It’s the most affordable way to experience the brand’s signature smooth ride.