Dover Shoe Collection: The First Trail Shoes Built From the Insole Up

By Mark Paigen

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Read time 3 min

When most trail shoes are designed, comfort is an afterthought. But the new Dover Shoe Collection from Tread Labs flips that script — starting with clinical-grade arch support and building the shoe around it. The result? Unmatched performance, comfort, and durability for every mile of rugged terrain.


Whether you’re tackling steep, rocky climbs or slick, rain-soaked descents, Dover and Dover RS are the only men’s and women’s trail shoes designed to keep your feet aligned, supported, and ready for anything.

The Basics

Most trail shoes overlook real support: Standard factory insoles break down quickly, leaving feet unsupported and prone to fatigue or injury.

Arch support changes everything: Clinical-grade insoles align the body, reduce strain, and maintain structure mile after mile.

Two models, one foundation: Dover offers durable leather construction for all-weather hiking, while Dover RS delivers lightweight, breathable performance.

A rethinking of trail footwear: The Dover Collection starts with the insole — redefining comfort, durability, and confidence on every mile.

What You Need to Know

The Dover shoe collection uses clinical-grade arch support to improve alignment, reduce fatigue, and keep your feet stable on rugged terrain. With two models — the durable leather Dover and the lightweight breathable Dover RS — there’s a fit for every trail and climate. Tested on some of the toughest landscapes, these shoes redefine what hikers and runners should expect from trail footwear.

Why Arch Support is the Game-Changer in Trail Shoes

Most hiking and trail shoes claim to be supportive, but the reality is that standard factory insoles break down quickly, leaving your feet to do all the work. That’s why arch support in trail shoes isn’t optional — it’s essential.

Every pair in the Dover Collection is built around the Tread Labs Pace Insole, a removable, recyclable polypropylene arch support system that:

  • Aligns your body from the ground up for better posture and reduced fatigue

  • Supports all 26 bones and 33 joints in your foot, preventing overpronation

  • Maintains structure mile after mile without flattening out

This isn’t “good enough” support. This is orthotic-level performance, without the prescription.

Dover vs. Dover RS: Which Trail Shoe is Right for You?

Both models share the same DNA — unbeatable arch support, rugged construction, and premium materials — but each has unique strengths.

  • Dover: The ultimate year-round hiking and trail shoe. Features a 2.5mm unlined suede upper that conforms to your feet and transports moisture better than any lined shoe.

  • Dover RS: A breathable, high-performance option with synthetic uppers for versatility and fast drying, perfect for runners and fast hikers who need agility without sacrificing support.

Both are equipped with Vibram® Megagrip outsoles for wet/dry traction, and fit profiles that mold to your feet over time.

Tested on the Toughest Terrain

Before launch, the Dover Collection faced months of real-world testing — from New England’s root-covered trails to Colorado’s alpine switchbacks. Every step confirmed what we already knew:

  • Arch support keeps your legs fresher longer, especially on technical terrain

  • A stable platform means more confident footing on uneven surfaces

  • High-quality materials make the difference between replacing shoes every season and investing in gear that lasts

How to Choose the Best Hiking Shoes with Arch Support

When shopping for trail shoes, here’s what to look for:

  1. Built-in Support – Avoid flimsy, flat insoles. Look for shoes designed around a supportive footbed, not ones that rely on cheap inserts.

  2. Outsole Grip – Vibram® or equivalent outsoles for confidence on wet, rocky, and muddy trails.

  3. Fit That Adapts – Premium shoes should break in without breaking down.

  4. Materials That Match Your Climate – Unlined suede for comfort and moisture management; synthetics for breathability and quick-drying performance.

The Dover Collection checks every box — and then some.

The Bottom Line

The Tread Labs Dover Shoe Collection isn’t just another entry into the hiking footwear category. It’s a complete rethinking of what a trail shoe should be — performance footwear built from the insole up, delivering unmatched comfort, support, and trail-ready capability.


Shop the Dover Collection and experience the gold standard in arch support — where every step starts from your foundation.

Shop The Dover Collection

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Mark Paigen

Mark has always believed exceptional footwear can change lives. He's been in the footwear industry for over 30 years, working with podiatrists, pedorthists, foot care experts, and footwear makers. Mark started Chaco sandals in 1989 and developed a game-changing sport sandal that delivered comfort and durability. After Chaco sold in 2009, Mark ultimately started Tread Labs to continue transforming people's footwear so they can walk better, feel better, live better.