What To Look For
The best arch supports in men's running shoes provide soft cushioning on the insole that absorb the shock of each footfall. Arch supports also encourage natural pronation, or the motion of the foot rolling slightly inward through each footfall. Over or underpronation can cause injury and pain, but arch supports can correct pronation to alleviate pain and prevent injury. Look for shoes such as the Brooks Glycerin 8 or the Saucony ProGrid Jazz 13, which provide cushioning that alleviates pain and injury.
Common Pitfalls
Many men buy running shoes because of the style, features or price rather than the arch support the shoes may give. Knowing if you have natural pronation or if you under or overpronate is necessary when buying a pair of running shoes with great arch supports. To determine pronation, wet the bottom of you foot and place on a surface so that you can see your footprint. Overpronators will be able to see the complete outline of the foot, including the inner arch, and underpronators will see only a thin part of the midsole of the foot. It is especially necessary for over and underpronators to have great arch support in their shoes.
Where To Buy
Online retailer Zappos.com sells the Saucony ProGrid and Brooks Glycerin 8. Many department and sporting goods stores such as Athlete's Foot, REI and Dick's Sporting Goods sell a wide variety of men's running shoes. These stores also have in-store staff that can further recommend the best arch supports for men's running shoes. Many online vendors provide consumer product reviews.
Cost
As of 2010, the Saucony Progrid Jazz 13 sells for approximately $80, while the Brooks Glycerin 8 sells for about $130.
