The Foot Arch Explained

In brief: The foot arch is the curved band of bones, ligaments and tendons along the inside of the foot that acts like a spring, absorbing impact and returning energy with each step. Arch height varies from high to flat, and it influences how the foot loads and which shoes feel comfortable.

What is the foot arch?

The foot arch is the gently curved structure running along the inside of your foot from the heel to the ball. It is formed by bones held in shape by ligaments and tendons, and it behaves like a natural spring that flattens slightly under load and recoils as you push off.

Why it matters

The arch is central to how your foot handles impact. As you land it lowers to absorb shock, then stiffens to help launch the next stride. Its height and flexibility affect how weight spreads across the foot and how a shoe feels underfoot.

Types of arch

Arches are usually grouped as high, neutral or low (flat). A high arch tends to be stiffer and absorbs less shock, a flat arch is more flexible and rolls in more, and a neutral arch sits between the two. None is automatically better; they simply behave differently.

What to look for

You can get a rough idea of your arch from a wet footprint: a full print suggests a flatter arch, while a thin band suggests a high one. Knowing your arch type can help you understand why some shoes feel more comfortable than others.

The foot arch and your running kit at OD's

Different shoes pair better with different arch heights. The team in St Helens can talk you through cushioning and support to match your foot, and we offer next-day delivery and free click and collect.