Do your shoes have arch support?Updated a month ago
No — and that's by design. Xero Shoes let your feet bend, flex, and respond to the ground naturally. Instead of built-in arch support, they have a flexible, low-profile (zero-drop) sole and a wide toe box so the muscles in your feet can do the work themselves.
Why we skip the arch support
Relying on artificial support can let foot muscles weaken over time, while minimalist footwear gives them a chance to get stronger. You can read more about arch support and natural foot strength in our blog post: Do you need arch support?
New to minimalist shoes?
Give your feet time to adapt. Start with short walks and build up gradually — your feet are working muscles they may not have used much in conventional shoes.
Can I use my own insoles or orthotics?
Many of our styles have a removable insole, so you can swap in your own if you'd like. If you have a diagnosed foot condition or your doctor has recommended arch support, check with them before switching to minimalist footwear.
Want a little more cushion?
Some of our styles have a thicker sole or more padding underfoot while keeping the zero-drop, flexible design. Examples are our Ridgeway Mesh Low and Ridgeway Chelsea.
Still have questions?
Contact Us and we'll help you pick the right style.