TOP 21 Best Running Shoes for Flat Feet Tested & Reviewed 2024
Having flat feet can be a real barrier to running injury and pain-free, right?
But the good news is, the type of shoes you choose will go a long way towards preventing said injury and pain.
This list will introduce you to a range of options with varying amounts of stability and arch support.
Skip to the guide at the bottom if you’re not sure what kind of support you want, and then check out the list of best running shoes for flat feet in 2024.
The shoes are roughly ordered according to stability, with neutral and then barefoot style shoes later on.
Contents
- TOP 21 Best Running Shoes for Flat Feet 2024
- Mizuno Men's Wave Paradox 4
- Nike Men's Air Zoom Structure 21
- New Balance Men's 990v4
- Newton Running Men's Sir Isaac S
- Hoka One One Men's Arahi 3
- Asics Men's Gel Kayano 26
- Brooks Men's PureCadence 7
- Altra Men's Provision 3.5
- Inov-8 Men's RoadClaw 275 v2
- Nike Men's Free RN Flyknit
- Merrell Men's Vapor Glove 3
- Saucony Women's Liberty ISO
- Brooks Women's Adrenaline GTS 19
- Asics Women's Metarun
- New Balance Women's Rubix
- Altra Women's Provision 3.0
- Hoka One One Women's Gaviota 2
- Nike Women's Air Zoom Winflo 6
- Newton Running Women’s Motion 7
- Mizuno Women's Wave Rider 22
- Adidas Women's Solar Glide
- Do You Have Flat Feet or Low, Collapsed Arches?
- FAQs
TOP 21 Best Running Shoes for Flat Feet 2024
Mizuno Men's Wave Paradox 4
- For the Runner needing Stability
- Fan Wave Plate for maximum stability and the utmost cushioning
- Fit in motion upper
- X10 outsole for ultimate traction
Review: The Mizuno Wave Paradox 4 manages to maintain a light weight, while including support and structure features that make it one of the best men’s running shoes for flat feet.
Cushion and support features include the U4icX Strobel Lasting Board stitched into the midsole for the most stability, and a soft cushy U4icX Midsole foam midsole.
The fan-shaped wave plate in the midsole flattens as your foot strikes the ground, taking up impact shock and providing more responsiveness.
Pros
- Board lasted shoe for firm support.
- Soft cushy midsole due to the U4icX.
- Fan wave plate absorbs and dissipates shock from foot strike.
Cons
- Heel does not lock down as well as the previous model.
Takeaway
Best stability shoe for runners who like a well-cushioned shoe with maximum stability and structure.
Nike Men's Air Zoom Structure 21
- Dynamic Fit technology locks down your foot.
- Engineered mesh provides targeted ventilation and support.
- Dynamic Support system in the midsole provides a smooth transition.
- Zoom Air unit in the forefoot delivers responsive, low-profile cushioning.
- Full inner mesh bootie wraps the foot to enhance breathability and provide a sock-like fit. Notches on each side of the tongue allow for easy on and off.
Review: The Nike Air Zoom Structure 21 is a popular stability shoe with several arch support features and a fast feeling ride.
The shoe sports two layers of cushion, including one layer of Nike Zoom Air cushion for great energy return and a one-piece flymesh upper so your feet can breathe.
Say goodbye to clunky heavy support shoes and hello to a new generation of a stability shoe with reliable arch support.
Pros
- Stable arch support.
- Responsive and springy Nike Zoom Air midsole layer.
- Flyknit upper makes a lighter support shoe.
Cons
- Slightly stiff sole.
Takeaway
Best Nike running shoes for flat feet for Nike fans who like a more structured running shoe with good arch support.
New Balance Men's 990v4
Review: This is a cushioned stability shoe from New Balance which offers excellent arch support and is well suited to wide, flat feet.
ENCAP midsole technology provides support and soft cushioning that is specifically designed for low arches. It’s also available in extra wide sizes which makes it good for runners with flat feet.
Click here for more wide feet running shoe reviews.
Pros
- Well cushioned with ACTEVA LITE cushioning.
- Stable arch support.
- Available in extra wide.
Cons
- May feel a little bulky and stiff.
Takeaway
Well cushioned with reliable stability and well suited to people who land hard.
Newton Running Men's Sir Isaac S
- Mesh Fabric - Enhances breathability and comfort.
- Seamless Construction - Reduces the potential for irritation and friction.
- No-Sew Overlays - Provides lightweight structure and offers a superb fit.
- Metatarsal Stretch Panels - Accommodate the shape of your foot.
- Action/Reaction Technology - Creates a responsive, trampoline-like cushioning system.
Review: The Sir Isaac is Newton’s most supportive and stable running shoe designed for those who want a maximalist style shoe that is also responsive.
The shoe employs a midfoot chassis and firm medial posting for stability and these features make the shoe good for flat feet.
The cushion is provided by Newton’s proprietary action/reaction technology, which is located in the forefoot of the sole. The beveled heel and toe promote forefoot striking and help train your stride.
Pros
- Medial posting in the midsole prevent overpronation and add arch support.
- Full foot cushion & action/reaction lugs make this shoe plush and responsive.
- Abrasion-resistant carbon rubber outsole.
Cons
- A little stiff.
- 4mm drop might be too much of an adjustment for avid heel strikers.
Takeaway
Structured and supportive – a maximalist shoe lovers’ dream running shoe.
Hoka One One Men's Arahi 3
Review: Great arch support and featherweight cloud-like cushion make these Hoka One One Arahi 3 running shoes great for those who suffer from shin splints.
Eva J-Frame technology provides excellent pronation support and the meta-rockers makes for very smooth heel to toe transitions.
If you suffer from shin splints click here to see more shoe recommendations.
Pros
- Active foot frame cradles and stabilizes foot.
- Firm density J frame corrects overpronation.
- Lightweight cushion makes for a comfortable injury-preventing ride.
- Wide options are available.
Cons
- Runs ½ size large – long in the toe area.
Takeaway
The Arahi 3 is one of the best running shoes for flat feet and shin splints.
Asics Men's Gel Kayano 26
- SpevaFoam 45 Lasting - Employs 45 degree full length SpevaFoam 45 lasting material for a soft platform feel and improved comfort.
- I.G.S (Impact Guidance System) Technology - ASICS design philosophy that employs linked componentry to enhance the foot's natural gait from heel strike to toe-off.
- FlyteFoam Lyte Technology - ASICS lightest weight midsole formulation that provides continuous cushion thanks to organic nano fibers.
- FlyteFoam Propel Technology - ASICS energetic foam formulation that provides supreme bounce thanks to a unique elastomer compound.
- Rearfoot and Forefoot GEL Technology Cushioning System - Attenuates shock during impact and toe-off phases, and allows movement in multiple planes as the foot transitions through the gait cycle.
Review: The Asics Gel Kayano 26 is a stability and support shoe designed with Asics’ well-known Gel Cushion underfoot.
The Trusstic system, Impact Guidance system and guidance line built into the sole of the shoe provide stability and correct pronation and the Flytefoam midsole combined with the “DuraSponge” outsole mean maximum impact absorption.
See more shoes for heavy runners here.
Pros
- Available in wide and extra wide.
- Extra supportive and well-cushioned against impact.
- A sturdy solid shoe for flat feet and big guys.
- Mid-level arch support, not too much nor too little.
Cons
- Arch support is moderate, less arch support than previous models.
- Asics often fits narrow.
Takeaway
A solid, supportive, well cushioned running shoe with mid-level arch support for big guys with flat feet.
Brooks Men's PureCadence 7
- SHOE SIZE: “D” = Medium width
- FOOT SUPPORT: Ideal for runners with a flat to medium arch looking for support.
- CONNECTED FEEL: Provides a lightweight and flexible feel, that creates a natural connection to your run, without compromising support or speed.
- PLUSH CUSHIONING AND FULL-BODY ALIGNMENT: BioMoGo DNA midsole cushioning dynamically adapts to your stride, providing minimal yet comfortable cushioning so you feel more in touch with your run. Rounded heel promotes better alignment, helping to minimize stress on the joints.
- LIGHTWEIGHT, SOCK-LIKE FIT: The Woven Air upper and soft internal bootie allow your feet to feel comfortable and unrestrained. The no-sew overlays provide a lightweight support and structure.
Review: This is a stability shoe designed specifically for flat to medium arches. It has mid-level arch support for runners who like to feel connected to the ground and don’t want too much distance between their feet and the road.
The shoes have a modest 4mm drop to maintain a natural stride.
The lightweight and responsive cushioning comes from the BioMoGo DNA midsole foam that adjusts to your stride and weight, and the sole is quite flexible due to the strategically placed Omega Flex grooves in the forefoot.
Pros
- Mid-level arch support – feel the feedback from the road.
- Flexible sole and upper for natural foot movement.
- Modest cushion that adapts to your stride.
Cons
- 4mm drop encourages forefoot striking which you might not be ready for.
Takeaway
If you are looking to transition to forefoot striking, these are among the best brooks running shoes for flat feet.
Altra Men's Provision 3.5
- More durable mesh
- Increased visibility on GuideRail
- Built-in heel varusing
- Stack Height: 25mm
- Cushioning: Moderate
Review: These zero drop Altra 3.5 shoes are built for overpronators with a special feature that is unlike any other overpronation shoe on the market.
This shoe incorporates Altra’s Varus Stability wedge which supports overpronators without the sometimes annoying stiff foam arch.
The Stability wedge is also removable so you can choose when and how long to run with or without support, which offers you a chance to train and strengthen the arch, while still leaving you the option to use support when needed.
Pros
- Removable Varus Stability Wedge allows you to choose your level of stability.
- Toe shape toe box allows your toes to spread naturally as you run.
- Guide rail and Stabilipod features help correct pronation issues.
Cons
- Run’s small, stability features are geared toward the front of the foot.
Takeaway
An excellent road running shoe for overpronators who forefoot strike.
Want to see more awesome running shoes for overpronation? Check them out here!
Inov-8 Men's RoadClaw 275 v2
- For running on all roads, even the most rugged.
- Ultra smooth and cushioned ride: Run effortlessly over any road conditions with new Power flow+ midsole technology. Power flow+ delivers 10% better shock absorption and 25% better energy return than standard midsoles.
- Get a spring in your step: Blown rubber on the forefoot of the outsole delivers a lighter, softer, springy, flexible and more cushioned feel than traditional rubber.
- Get more support: External Heel Counter wraps around the rear of the shoe and provides support in the heel. Delivering this extra hold aids foot stability and helps a fatigued runner maintain a better gait.
- Brilliant breathability: Stripped-back upper is now more breathable, making it the perfect for running in all conditions, including summer.
Review: The Inov-8 Road Claw 275 v2 is a neutral shoe well suited for longer runs due to it’s a high-quality cushion.
It is not overly cushioned but it stays comfortable mile after mile. Inov-8 also added durability elements to the shoe to withstand high mileage.
The shoe is great for flat feet thanks to improved shock absorption and heel support to maintain a properly aligned stride.
Pros
- Powerflow+ midsole foam attenuates shock well.
- The blown rubber sole is light and adds cushion to the shoe.
- External wrap around heel counter stabilizes the heel and prevents rolling or overpronation.
Cons
- Runs small.
Takeaway
Durable and comfortable running shoe with minimal arch support, moderate cushion and a great option for long runs.
Nike Men's Free RN Flyknit
- Flyknit constructed upper delivers zoned stretch and support.
- Dual-density midsole and tri-star outsole provide flexible cushioning.
- Dynamic heel is stretchy for a snug, adaptive fit.
- Minimal, molded sockliner mimics the curvature of the foot to add support.
- Texture has been added under the toe and heel to enhance traction in these high-abrasion zones.
Review: The Nike Free is designed to give you a more barefoot feel as you run. This shoe is good for runners with flat feet who do not like or want prominent arch support.
The upper is stretchy and form-fitting while the sole is flexible, expanding and contracting along with the movement of your foot.
Pros
- Barefoot feel and style-appropriate for everyday short runs.
- Foot hugging stretch upper for a perfect fit.
- Rounded heel eases contact with ground.
Cons
- Lace holes need better reinforcement.
Takeaway
Great everyday running shoes for runners with flat feet who want a barefoot feel, and the best option for short runs.
See more minimalist running shoe reviews here.
Merrell Men's Vapor Glove 3
- Mesh, TPU Upper
- Zero Drop
- Vibram TC5 Outsole
- Trail Protect Pad
- Mselect Fresh Lining; Stack height (heel/toe): 6.5mm; footbed: 0mm; insole: 3mm; midsole: 0mm; sole: 1.5web, 2mm lugs
Review: This is a minimalist trail running shoe that may be a good choice for runners with flat feet who opt for little to no cushion in order to strengthen the foot arch.
The shoe is flexible, allowing your foot to move as nature intended. The Vibram sole is wear-resistant and durable giving you even more miles out on the trail.
Pros
- Snug heel – good lockdown.
- Roomy toe box, natural toe positioning.
- Minimal cushion allows you to work the foot arch muscles.
Cons
- These shoes run large.
- Takes time to transition to barefoot running.
Takeaway
Minimalist trail runner for runners who want very little underfoot padding and no arch support.
For more barefoot style running shoes see our reviews here.
Saucony Women's Liberty ISO
- Featuring a highly durable EVERUN topsole, this running shoe offers a lively and responsive run with superior cushioning, while the PWRFOAM midsole adds bounce to your steps
- ISOFIT system in the upper efficiently adapts to the shape and motion of your foot to give you a sock-like feel as you cover miles
- Mesh and textile upper
Review: The Saucony Liberty ISO is a popular stability shoe for everyday training. It has a good amount of plushness and special features that alleviate plantar fasciitis and benefit flat-footed runners.
The shoe has moderate medial support, full-length Everun midsole cushion, a sole that is reinforced on the inner edge and heel, and an external TPU frame.
Pros
- Full length responsive Everun midsole foam.
- ISO fit system upper ensures a secure form-fitting ride.
- Medial support alleviates plantar fasciitis and offers arch support for flat feet.
Cons
- Narrows near the toe.
Takeaway
Best running shoes for flat feet and plantar fasciitis and moderate support for runners with flat feet.
Brooks Women's Adrenaline GTS 19
- SHOE SIZE: "B" = Medium width, "D" = Wide width, "2A" = Narrow width, "2E" = Extra wide width
- FOOT SUPPORT: Ideal for runners with all arches looking for support. Our new Guiderail Support System focuses beyond the feet to the most injury-prone part of a runner’s body: the knees. GuideRails keep you moving comfortably by keeping excess movement in check.
- CUSHIONED FEEL: Soft and protective, these shoes provide just the right amount of cushion in each step to let you float through your run, walk and everyday life.
- BALANCED, SOFT CUSHIONING: BioMoGo DNA and DNA LOFT cushioning work together to provide a just-right softness underfoot without losing responsiveness and durability—yet it feels lighter than ever.
- MODERNIZED FIT: Engineered mesh and the 3D Fit Print upper provide the structure and proven fit of this Go-To Shoe with a streamlined look.
Review: The Brooks Adrenaline GTS is a highly rated lightweight everyday trainer designed for overpronators. The Progressive diagonal roll bar located in the heel and arch area of the sole give the shoe stability.
The tri-density midsole foam forms an internal post that supports the arch and controls pronation. The shoe is well-cushioned thanks to two layers of midsole cushion, which also helps provide arch support that runners with flat feet may benefit from.
Pros
- Progressive diagonal roll bar creates internal post support for foot arch.
- Beveled sole works well for heel strikers as well as mid and forefoot strikers.
- BioMoGo DNA midsole foam for an added layer of plush impact attenuation.
- Available in wide, extra wide, and lots of color options. Yeah!
Cons
- A little stiff.
Takeaway
Stable arch support makes these great running shoes for flat feet.
Asics Women's Metarun
- Optimized Upper - featuring a glove-like, one-layer Jacquard Mesh and MetaClutch exoskeleton external heel counter with built-in memory foam.
- Heel Clutching System Technology - Exoskeletal heel counter provides improved support and creates improved heel fitting environment.
- I.G.S (Impact Guidance System) Technology - ASICS design philosophy that employs linked componentry to enhance the foot's natural gait from heel strike to toe-off.
- Ortholite Sockliner - Moisture management (Ortholite is a registered trademark of ATP Manufacturing LLC).
- FlyteFoam Midsole Technology - Our FlyteFoam technology provides exceptional bounce back and responsiveness no matter the distance, utilizing organic super fibers to help reduce packing out that traditionally happens with softer, low density foams.
Review: This new custom engineered support and stability shoe by Asics incorporates the best available materials combined with the latest technology.
Plush Flytefoam midsole cushioning is 55% lighter than standard midsole material, which combined with Asics X-gel technology ensures a cushioned ride that is easy on the joints.
Stability features like the AdaptTruss and external heel clutch guard against foot roll, and comfort features like the memory foam-lined collar make the Asics MetaRun a premium performance ride.
Pros
- AdaptTruss stability in the outsole.
- X-Gel in the heel and ultralight Flytefoam midsole supply luxurious cushion.
- One layer FluidFit mesh upper hugs the foot for a secure, form-fitting ride.
Cons
- Pricy.
Takeaway
Best running shoes for women with flat feet who want the finest performance running shoe available.
New Balance Women's Rubix
- Synthetic/mesh upper
- Engineered mesh
- ACTEVA ULTRALITE premium ultra-lightweight midsole provides optimal resistance to compression set - 32% lighter than standard foam
- 8 mm drop: due to variances created during the development and manufacturing processes, all references to 8 mm drop are approximate
- No-sew overlays
Review: The New Balance Rubix is New Balance’s newest motion control shoe, utilizing all new technology that provides optimum cushioning and stability.
It uses a segmented midsole to absorb shock and guide the foot through a stable transition. The Acteva Ultralight foam provides really lightweight cushioning while Guidance Ramps guide the foot through a correct amount of pronation.
Pros
- Lightweight cushioning.
- Extreme stability.
- Semi curved last.
- Very smooth transitions.
Cons
- 8mm drop is designed for mid foot striking.
Takeaway
Comfortable and well cushioned motion control shoes ideal for mid foot strikers.
Altra Women's Provision 3.0
- DESIGNED TO IMPROVE: Running Form, Assist Fallen Arches, Excessive Pronation
- PLATFORM: Fully cushioned Zero Drop platform and FootShape toe box. CUSHIONING: Moderate. STACK HEIGHT: 25mm. LAST: SL1-W.
- MIDSOLE: Ultralight EVA with A-Bound Tp Layer, StabiliPod Technology, and Varus Wedge Technology. OUTSOLE: FootPod Outsole with StabiliPod Technology. INSOLE: 6mm Sculpted Footbed. UPPER: Quick-Dry Air Mesh.
- OTHER FEATURES: Natural Ride System, GuideRail; All-new Midsole and Upper.
- IDEAL USES: Road Running, Walking, Light Trail Running, Cross-Training. WEIGHT: 8.5oz.
Review: The Altra Provision 3.0 has moderate cushioning but maximum support. Support comes in the form of a Varus stability wedge which re-aligns the collapsed arch of a flat foot.
The midsole StabiliPod and GuideRail work in tandem to prevent incorrect pronation and the natural toe shape forefront and Fit4Her design make this one of the best running shoes for flat feet and overpronation for women.
Pros
- Varus stability wedge for arch support.
- Fit4her designed specifically for women’s feet.
- GuideRail and StabiliPod technologies prevent improper foot roll.
Cons
- Run small, but wide in the toe box.
Takeaway
High support running shoes built specifically for women.
Hoka One One Women's Gaviota 2
Review: The Gaviota 2 is another great motion control shoe from Hoka One One with a wide, stable base and plenty of cushioning.
It has a 5mm drop which means it encourages midfoot striking but it’s well-cushioned enough it won’t matter if you heel strike a bit too. It’s also really lightweight and really responsive for a motion control shoes.
Pros
- High abrasion lightweight rubber outsole.
- Secure fitting upper provides additional support.
- RMAT J-frame provides stability.
- Wide-open toebox, good for runners with bunions.
Cons
- A little pricey.
Takeaway
Best running shoes for flat feet and bunions.
Nike Women's Air Zoom Winflo 6
Review: Nike’s Air Zoom Winflo has the trademark Nike sleekness and fast feel, while also providing excellent stability.
It’s a stability shoe with a 10mm drop which makes it great for heel strikers. Zoom air pockets in the forefoot and heel provide a bouncy feel while a thicker section of foam under the arch provides pronation support.
Pros
- Cushlon foam is lightweight, durable and responsive.
- Seamless engineered mesh upper is breathable and snug-fitting.
- Comfortable.
- Fast feeling.
Cons
- Runs small and narrow – not great for wide feet.
Takeaway
Best women’s running shoes for flat feet runners who want a fast feeling shoe with max spring back.
Newton Running Women’s Motion 7
Review: The Newton Motion 7 is low drop stability running shoe with high quality cushioning.
The medial support is provided by a firm medial post which reaches toward the front of the foot to offer assistance to forefoot strikers who overpronate. It’s also really comfortable and a really versatile shoe that works well over a range of speeds and distances.
Pros
- Medial arch support provided by a firm medial post.
- Responsive compression-resistant Newtonium foam spans entire midsole.
- 4 way stretch upper ventilates well and makes shoe form-fitting.
Cons
- Expensive (but arguably worth it).
Takeaway
Highly comfortable, stable, long wearing shoe that can be worn for all of your runs.
Mizuno Women's Wave Rider 22
- Proven Cloudwave Platform for smooth and responsive ride
- U4ic midsole with soft heel center
- Engineered Stretch Mesh for adaptive Fit in Motion
- Articulated Heel Zone for smoother transition
Review: This neutral road running shoe by Mizuno pays special attention to the cushioning under the heel, which is why it works well for heel strikers and those with bad knees.
The U4ic midsole provides a soft heel center to take up the shock in the heel area.
The U4icX Strobel Lasting Board provides stability in the heel area and the Wave shape plate of Mizuno’s wave plate technology provides a shock-absorbing spring effect to further attenuate heel-strike shock.
Pros
- U4icX Strobel Lasting Board provides heel and midfoot stability.
- U4icX heel midsole for an additional layer of impact protection.
- Mizuno wave plate technology for added spring back and impact force reduction.
Cons
- Shoe runs narrow, however, it is offered in wide width.
- Not enough arch support for overpronators.
Takeaway
Most comfortable running shoes for flat feet, heel strikers or those with bad knees.
Adidas Women's Solar Glide
- Weight: 10 ounces (size 7); Midsole drop: 10 mm (heel: 32 mm / forefoot 22 mm); Runner type: Neutral shoes offer flexibility and versatility, with premium cushioning
- Boost is our most responsive cushioning ever: The more energy you give, the more you get
- Engineered sandwich mesh upper for breathable comfort; Ribbing designed into forefoot for optimal fit during metatarsal flexion
- Cushioned tongue for more precise fit and comfort; Fitcounter molded heel counter provides a natural fit that allows optimal movement of the Achilles
- Solar Propulsion Rail helps guide and propel the foot; Torsion System between the heel and forefoot for a stable ride; Stretchweb outsole flexes naturally for an energized ride, while Continental Rubber gives you superior traction
Review: These long-distance running shoes by Adidas are neutral, so they don’t offer much in the way of deliberate arch support, but they’re designed for larger people who appreciate a stable, well-cushioned platform.
This means they provide ample cushioning and a smooth roll through that will help a little with your alignment.
Pros
- Solar Propulsion Rail helps keep foot properly aligned.
- FitCounter heel design prevents blisters and painful chafing in the Achilles heel area.
- Energy returning Boost foam midsole.
Cons
- Shoe runs long and a bit narrow.
Takeaway
Light, responsive, neutral shoes that go the distance if you’re already putting the work into strengthening your feet.
Like the idea of long-distance running shoes? We have 17 best long distance running shoes reviewed here.
Do You Have Flat Feet or Low, Collapsed Arches?
Maybe you have been told you need shoes with serious arch support.
Or…
Maybe you were told barefoot or minimalist shoes would help strengthen or re-establish your arches.
So which advice should you take?
The answer depends on your feet. But we’ll get to that in a moment…
Why is the Foot Arch so Important?
The arches in your feet act as springs or shock absorbers, absorbing the force of impact you receive when your foot hits the ground while running.
In the same way, the arches also store and return energy back to your step.
When this arch is collapsed, the condition is called flat feet.
Flat feet do not take up shock nor return energy back to your stride as well as properly functioning arches would.
This means that having a good amount of cushioning in your shoes is really important.
So, Why do We Need Arch Support?
There are two schools of thought when it comes to flat feet or collapsed arches.
Theory 1
Flat feet are prone to overpronation. Pronation itself is natural, but when this inward motion goes too far, known as overpronation, the joints in your ankles, knees and hips get thrown out of alignment leading to a wide range of possible injuries.
People with flat feet or low arches need a shoe that supports or props up the arch in order to keep your joints in alignment and avoid injury.
Theory 2
The second school of thought says that shoes with arch support further weaken the arch, making the foot dependent on the shoe.
Proponents of minimalist or barefoot style running say that added cushion and arch support won’t fix the underlying problem.
Minimalist style shoe enthusiasts say you need running shoes with little or no arch support so that you can strengthen the arches and build them back up.
Which Theory is Right?
Both, sort of.
Some people find a barefoot style running shoe really helps (once they’ve built up their foot strength that is), others discover that a really supportive, structured running shoe is the only option.
What is comes down to is whether your flat feet are congenital and related to the length of certain bones, or whether your arches have collapsed over time due to under-use.
If you were born with flat feet, it’s unlikely you’ll be able to train an arch into them. You’re probably better off making peace with using wearing well-cushioned and supportive shoes. Look for shoes designated “stability” or “motion control”.
If, on the other hand, you weren’t born with flat feet and the problem developed over time due to wearing shoes, then spending more time barefoot, doing some strengthening exercises, and transitioning to forefoot striking, could potentially be life-changing.
But, be aware that this process takes time.
If you’re interested in making this transition, have a read of our guide to the best barefoot running shoes and make sure you don’t rush the process!
If you think you’re going to stick to the supportive route, any of the stability or motion control shoes on this list are great choices.
You can also take a look at our list of shoes for overpronators for more options, just be sure to choose something wide enough and with good cushioning.
Wide?
Yes, that’s right. You probably already know that you have wide feet. But most flat feet end up being wide as the foot spreads width wise once the arch isn’t holding it up. This means wide shoes are essential. We have more great wide options here if you’d like more to choose from.
What about if you’re into trail running or cross-training? Don’t worry, there are great shoes available for people with flat feet who are keen for both trail running and cross-training!
But, to summarize, good running shoes for flat feet provide stability, arch support, plenty of cushioning and a wide fit.
FAQs
What Type of Running Shoes are Best for Flat Feet?
For most runners with flat feet, the best running shoes are stability shoes with good arch support and plenty of cushioning.
Do Flat Feet Affect Running?
Yes, definitely! Flat feet cause your knees and hips to be out of alignment and eventually for pain and injury.
Do Flat Feet Runners Need Arch Support?
Yes, generally speaking, flat-footed runners need very stable arch support but without an arch that will be too protruding as this will be uncomfortable.
What Asics are Good for Flat Feet?
Any of Asics’s stability shoes are great options for flat feet. The Kayano and Metarun are all good examples.
Which Nike Running Shoes are Best for Flat Feet?
The Nike Zoom Structure 21 is the best Nike shoe for flat feet.
Are Skechers Shoes Good for Flat Feet?
Some Skechers shoes are designed with some good built-in arch support for casual use. But, they’re not recommended for running.
Are New Balance Shoes Good for Flat Feet?
New Balance’s motion control and stability shoes are excellent for flat feet. They have great support and are also usually a little wider fitting than Asics and Nike and with good cushioning.
There you have it, 21 of the best running shoes for flat feet 2024.
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