Let’s bust a big footwear myth.
You’ve probably heard it before:
A “good” shoe has arch support.
But here’s the reality bomb: arch support in shoes might be the very thing causing your foot problems.
I know, it’s the opposite of what we’ve been told.
But stick with me.
🤯 What Is Arch Support Really Doing?
Let’s break it down through the lens of a first principle in human physiology — the S.A.I.D Principle (Specific Adaptation to Imposed Demand).
Your body adapts to the inputs it receives.
So when you wear shoes that support your arch instead of letting your foot do the work, here’s what happens:
1. Your arch muscles weaken.
External support means less demand on your internal support. Less work = muscle atrophy.
2. You restrict pronation.
Pronation isn’t a problem — it’s a vital movement that lets your feet absorb impact and adapt to different surfaces. Arch support blocks that movement.
Result? You trade short-term comfort for long-term dysfunction.
Support Is a Crutch, Not a Solution
Want weak, stiff, injury-prone feet?
Cool. Keep wearing arch-supporting shoes.
Want strong, mobile, resilient feet?
Switch to flat, foot-shaped, natural footwear.
That’s why one of the 5 Fs of natural footwear is Flat — heel to toe AND across the footbed. No ramps. No arch bumps. Just a neutral platform that lets your body do its job.
The more your feet work, the more they adapt. The more they adapt, the stronger they get.
✅ Summary: Why Arch Support is Overrated
- Arch support disables your feet
- It prevents natural muscle activation and movement (like pronation)
- Over time, this weakens your arch and increases injury risk
- Natural shoes with flat footbeds help your body re-learn its natural strength and function
- Strong feet don’t need support. They are the support.
👣 Want Stronger Feet?
We’ve got two simple next steps for you:
1. Switch to natural footwear –
We carry Canada’s best selection of flat, flexible, foot-shaped shoes that don’t weaken your feet.
2. Download our FREE Transition to Barefoot Guide
A simple, step-by-step plan to move from cushioned, supported shoes to strong, resilient feet.
✉️ Found this helpful?
Share it with someone who’s ready to ditch orthotics and reclaim their foot strength.
And if you want the deep dive, the full blog is live in our Foot Health Library.
Thanks for reading. Thanks for taking care of yourself.
Much Love,
Nick
SoleFreedom.ca