Here are clear, practical recommendations for comfortable shoes that give good arch support — what to look for, specific models that podiatrists and reviewers commonly recommend, and quick buying tips (includes options sold in Australia).

What to look for in a shoe for arch support

• A contoured, firm midfoot/arch area (built-in orthotic or contoured footbed). (acehealthcare.com.au)
• Good heel cup (deep, stabilising) to control motion and keep the arch aligned. (cls.health)
• Stable midsole (stability or motion-control features) for overpronation; or well-cushioned, rocker/Meta-Rocker designs for high arches. (eatthis.com)
• Removable insole so you can insert a custom or OTC orthotic if needed. (michiganavenuepodiatry.com)
• A roomy toe box and correct width so the arch and other structures aren’t compressed. (news.com.au)

Trusted shoe models/brands (good starting point)

• Hoka (Clifton, Bondi): max or high cushioning and rocker shapes that help people with high arches and plantar fasciitis. Good for walking/running. (eatthis.com)
• Brooks (Ghost for neutral, Addiction Walker for stability): well-regarded for balanced cushioning and strong midfoot support; Brooks is often recommended by podiatrists. (purecarepath.com)
• ASICS (Gel-Kayano): stability runner with supportive midsole tech for overpronation and arch support. (michiganavenuepodiatry.com)
• New Balance (990 series, Fresh Foam lines): supportive midsoles and multiple width options — good if you need a wide fit and reliable arch support. (cls.health)
• Vionic: shoes and sandals built around a podiatrist-designed orthotic footbed with strong arch support — good for everyday, casual and dress wear. (acehealthcare.com.au)
• Birkenstock / Naot / KEEN: sandals with contoured footbeds (Birkenstock, Naot) and supportive outdoor sandals (KEEN) for warm weather. (acehealthcare.com.au)

Special notes for plantar fasciitis or specific needs

• If you have plantar fasciitis, look for firm arch support + good heel cushioning (Hoka Bondi, Brooks Addiction, Saucony Omni, ASICS stability models are often recommended). (cls.health)
• For high arches, extra cushioning and a rocker sole help distribute pressure (Hoka Clifton/Bondi recommended by podiatrists). (eatthis.com)

Buying tips (Australia-focused)

• Try in person if you can — walk on a store treadmill or around the shop; Australian retailers (sporting stores and local shops) commonly stock Hoka, ASICS, Brooks, New Balance and Vionic. If buying online, confirm return/exchange policy. (news.com.au)
• Bring the socks you’ll wear with the shoes, test with a full walk, and compare both feet (one foot is often larger). (news.com.au)
• If store staff measure you, ask for a gait/pressure assessment where available — it helps match neutral vs stability shoes. (cls.health)
• If store shoes feel almost right but the arch isn’t enough, buy shoes with removable insoles and insert an OTC arch support or a prescription orthotic. (michiganavenuepodiatry.com)

When to see a podiatrist

• If you have persistent heel/arch pain, recurrent injuries, numbness, or changes in foot shape, see a podiatrist — they can prescribe custom orthotics or specific footwear guidance. (cls.health)

Quick shortlist (easy starters to try)

• Hoka Clifton or Bondi (walking/running, high cushioning). (eatthis.com)
• Brooks Ghost (neutral) or Brooks Addiction Walker (stability/walking). (purecarepath.com)
• ASICS Gel-Kayano (stability runner). (michiganavenuepodiatry.com)
• New Balance 990 / Fresh Foam models (support + widths). (cls.health)
• Vionic (everyday shoes & sandals with built-in orthotic). (acehealthcare.com.au)

If you want, tell me:

• whether you need running shoes, work shoes, sandals or dress shoes, and your usual shoe size/width — I can give a tighter list of models available in Australia and point to local retailers or exact models.