TOP 13 Best Trail Running Shoes for Flat Feet Tested & Reviewed 2024
If you’re a trail runner with flat feet, you can’t just wear any old trail shoes, right?
You need a shoe that will stand up to the rigors of the trail but also provide you with the right kind of support.
I’ve got you covered!
This article will explain what to look for, and review 13 of the best trail running shoes for flat feet in 2024.
Contents
- TOP 13 Best Trail Running Shoes for Flat Feet 2024
- Asics Women's Gel Kahana 8
- New Balance Women's Leadville V3
- Salomon Women's XA Pro 3D GTX Trail
- Hoka One One Women's Mafate 4
- Brooks Women's Adrenaline GTS 20
- Merrell Women's All Out Crush 2
- Asics Men's GT-2000 7 Trail
- Saucony Men's Guide ISO 2 TR
- The North Face Men's Ultra 109 GTX Trail
- Adidas Men's Terrex Skychaser GTX
- Brooks Men's Beast 18
- Inov-8 Men's Mudclaw 300
- Merrell Men's Vapor Glove 2 Trail
- What’s so Great about Trail Running Shoes?
- What are the Best Trail Running Shoes for Flat Feet?
- What Other Gear do You Need for Trail Running?
TOP 13 Best Trail Running Shoes for Flat Feet 2024
Asics Women's Gel Kahana 8
Review: You can’t really go wrong with Asics for a great balance of stability and comfort. To get this balance in a trail shoe without being excessively stiff and heavy is even more impressive.
The Kahana is adequately cushioned and supportive while being durable, light and comfortable to wear.
Pros
- Durable.
- Protective mesh upper.
- Laces that stay tied up!
- Reliable Asics stability and arch support.
- Gel cushioning system.
Cons
- Possibly on the narrow side.
Takeaway
A comfortable Asics stability shoe with ample cushioning but rugged enough to survive the trails, the Gel Kahanas are likely to be among the best trail running shoes for flat feet.
New Balance Women's Leadville V3
- Trail runner featuring protective toe bumper, gusseted tongue, and padded collar
- Traditional lacing system
Review: This is a shoe designed for the trail but that performs equally well on the road, with good traction, multiple protective components and ample cushioning.
It is classed as a stability shoe and is designed for medium arches, but the arch support isn’t too pronounced so it’ll still be very comfortable for flat feet. And, its medial post provides reliable protection against overpronation.
If your priority is comfort and versatility, then these are good trail running shoes for flat feet.
Pros
- Gusseted tongue and toe guard for protection.
- Breathable.
- Quick-drying.
- Responsive.
- Supportive medial post.
Cons
- Feels a little stiff and firm.
Takeaway
A comfortable, protective shoe providing reasonable support and a versatile ride on a range of surfaces.
Salomon Women's XA Pro 3D GTX Trail
- ALL-TERRAIN ADVENTURE: Featuring a protective toe cap, wet traction grip, 3D advanced chassis for stability, & GORE-TEX lining the XA Pro 3D GTX is a shoe that lets you play long & hard on any terrain.
- NO SUCH THING AS BAD WEATHER: With an aggressive grip, stability, & protection the iconic Salomon XA Pro 3D line of shoes is perfect for hiking, backpacking, or trail running on every type of terrain.
- GO THE DISTANCE: Whether you love daily road running in your neighborhood, an escape to a local trail, or something more rugged, Salomon makes shoes that ensure you have a smooth ride on any & all terrain.
- TIME TO PLAY: Whether you are into trail running, hiking, backpacking, or mountaineering, Salomon has shoes & gear for kids, men & women to help you conquer a new distance, personal record, or event!
- SINCE 1947 Salomon has used our passion for outdoor sports & innovation to create progressive gear. Our road & trail running shoes, hiking sneakers, boots, & water shoes help make any path your own.
Review: For those wanting a shoe that will put up with whatever you throw at it on the trails, protecting your feet from the elements and debris while not falling apart, this is it.
This Salomon is a rugged, hardy trail shoe, with the added benefit of arch support for the flat foot. It’s a reliable and comfortable shoe with great shock absorption for heel strikers, though it may feel a little heavy.
Pros
- Waterproof Gore-Tex upper.
- Good protection from debris.
- Excellent stability and arch support.
- Extremely durable.
- Versatile tread.
Cons
- A little heavy.
Takeaway
The ideal trail running shoe for an overpronator who wants to hit some serious trails.
Hoka One One Women's Mafate 4
Review: This is a highly cushioned trail shoe with aggressive tread and excellent stability. However, it is a low drop shoe, so even though it provides great arch support, it does encourage forefoot striking which might take a bit of getting used to.
If you’re ok with that, you’ll be rewarded with one of the most highly cushioned and comfortable trail shoes on the market.
Pros
- 5mm lugs for aggressive tread.
- Wide toe box.
- Breathable upper mesh.
- Well-cushioned.
Cons
- 4mm drop promotes forefoot striking.
Takeaway
A great option for those who want a comfortable, well cushioned shoe that will support them on the trail.
Brooks Women's Adrenaline GTS 20
- This shoe is for runners who need a perfect blend of support, cushion, flexibility, and reliability. The modernized, streamlined design satisfies runners who crave a low-profile look.
- Provides just the right amount of stability and support, great for overpronation while providing high energizing cushioning. Ideal for road running, cross training, the gym or wherever you might want to take them!
- The DNA LOFT Crash Pad cushions each footfall and works with BioMoGo DNA to adapt to your every stride.
- A new streamlined, engineered mesh upper with 3D Fit Print offers the structure and proven fit the Adrenaline is known for-without excess bulk.
- We've shifted our focus 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.
Review: Strictly speaking these are road running shoes, however, their mesh upper and rubber sole make them ideal as a lightweight trail shoe, and they’re perfect if you want one pair of shoes for all of your runs, road or trail. Also, they’re so popular and highly rated, it wouldn’t seem right to not have them on this list.
They are classified as motion control shoes, so, being designed for overpronators, they have an extra layer of support on top of the standard stability shoe.
Consequently, they are good trail running shoes for flat feet with a good amount of cushioning as a bonus.
Pros
- Removable insole.
- Available in a wide size.
- Well-cushioned.
- Lightweight.
- Highly supportive.
Cons
- Less durable than a specific trail running shoe.
Takeaway
If you’re not spending all of your time on rough trails and want a shoe that will provide you with a well-supported, comfortable ride, the Brooks Adrenaline GTS is ideal.
Merrell Women's All Out Crush 2
Review: This shoe is designed for a range of trails but does particularly well on technical terrain. It is a neutral shoe so it’s not designed with excessive overpronators in mind.
But, in saying that, if you’re working towards building up your foot strength and running with less support, then transitioning to a neutral shoe is a necessary stepping stone. And, this shoe, with its 6mm drop, encourages you to land on your midfoot so it could be the perfect transition.
Otherwise, adding custom insoles will provide the extra arch support you need while this shoe will do everything else.
Pros
- Multi layered mesh upper is breathable.
- Very lightweight.
- M-Select GRIP rubber outsole with lugs for great traction.
Cons
- A neutral shoe so custom insole required for excessive pronators.
Takeaway
This is a sleek and lightweight trail shoe well suited to technical trails.
Interested in more of the best women’s trail running shoes? Check out our article right here.
Asics Men's GT-2000 7 Trail
- FlyteFoam Lyte Technology - ASICS lightest weight midsole formulation that provides continuous cushion thanks to organic nano fibers.
- SpevaFoam 45 Lasting - Employs 45 degree full length SpevaFoam 45 lasting material for a soft platform feel and improved comfort.
- Ortholite Sockliner - Moisture management (Ortholite is a registered trademark of ATP Manufacturing LLC).
- SpevaFoam Midsole Material - Improves bounce back characteristics and decreases midsole breakdown.
- 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: If you run in Kayanos on the road, then these are the unofficial trail alternative.
They’re a reliable Asics runner with ample cushioning, support, traction and durability. They’re stiffer than the road shoe, but that’s to be expected from a trail shoe.
Like most Asics shoes, the fit is on the narrow side, so if you have narrow feet, they’re perfect.
Pros
- Durable.
- Well supported.
- Does not require breaking in.
- Good traction.
- Cushioned.
- Responsive.
Cons
- Narrow fit.
Takeaway
If arch support combined with the classic features of a trail running shoe are your priorities then this is the shoe for you.
Saucony Men's Guide ISO 2 TR
Review: This is the highly popular Saucony Guide ISO but with some trail-specific features added in to provide extra traction and durability.
It has a PWRTRAC outsole with 6mm lugs for off-road traction, an engineered mesh upper that works together with ISOFIT technology to provide a snug, secure fit, and a PWRFOAM midsole that provides responsive cushioning.
Pros
- Supportive.
- Well-cushioned but responsive.
- Excellent traction.
- Durable.
- Comfortable padded tongue.
Cons
- May feel a little firm.
Takeaway
Saucony make excellent trail shoes and this one is no exception. It comes highly rated for supportiveness and traction.
The North Face Men's Ultra 109 GTX Trail
- Upper: Waterproof, breathable Gore Tex membraneESS midfoot shank and forefoot Snake Plate for protection from stone bruising
- Breathable meshUltrATAC rubber outsole
- PU coated leather mudguard
- Industry leading OrthoLite footbed for long-lasting comfort
- Sole Unit: Compression molded EVA midsole
Review: A comfortable and rugged trail running shoe with built-in arch support and protective components.
The only downside appears to be the reports of the less durable upper than you would expect from a trail running shoe.
Pros
- Enhanced breathability.
- Good traction.
- Waterproof Gore-tex upper.
- Good stability and arch support.
Cons
- Material is not as durable as it could be for a trail running shoe.
- A touch heavy.
Takeaway
These are a comfortable, supportive and protective trail running shoes.
Adidas Men's Terrex Skychaser GTX
- Shaft measures approximately Low-Top" from arch
- Durable textile and mesh upper with abrasion-resistant welding
- Speed lacing construction
- Gore-Tex lining for waterproof, breathable performance
- Bungee stows laces to help avoid tangling
Review: Designed for mountain running and adaptability on rocky surfaces, this Adidas shoe is a great option for someone wanting the stability and durability of a trail running shoe with a stable midsole and heel design.
But, it’s worth bearing in mind that this is another low drop shoe (6mm) that will encourage midfoot striking.
Pros
- Great traction.
- Durable.
- Stable and supportive.
- Lightweight, breathable textile upper.
- Low to the ground feel.
- Waterproof Gore-Tex upper.
Cons
- May require a break-in period.
- Sizes run small/narrow.
Takeaway
A reliable, supportive and responsive trail shoe likely to be a great option for the flat footed trail runner who wants something durable.
Brooks Men's Beast 18
- FOOT SUPPORT: Ideal for runners with a flat to medium arch looking for support.
- MAXIMUM CUSHION AND SUPPORT: Super soft and protective, these shoes provide the maximum stability with a soft, cushioned feel.
- PLUSH CUSHIONING AND FULL-BODY ALIGNMENT: The Super DNA midsole provides 25% more adaptable cushioning than our standard DNA midsole while the Extended Progressive Diagonal Rollerbar guides your body back into its natural motion path with added support.
- ENHANCED FIT: The improved fit of the soft, engineered air mesh upper offers a spacious toe box, structured saddle, and an external heel counter for reinforced stability.
- GUARANTEE: With Brooks’ True Blue Guarantee, take your gear for a trial run and if you’re not 100% satisfied within 90 days, return it for free.
Review: Designed with road running in mind but built for the severe overpronator, the Beast 18 provides serious support and cushioning.
Flexible enough to not feel stiff and restrictive while still being supportive, the Beast provides a really stable platform with excellent shock absorption and is popular with heavier runners.
Pros
- Moisture wicking, breathable mesh upper.
- 12mm drop.
- Full-length segmented crash pad.
- Suited to wide feet.
- Motion control.
Cons
- On the heavy side.
Takeaway
A great option for flat footed runners with wide feet who want a comfortable, supportive ride that they can take both on and off trail.
Inov-8 Men's Mudclaw 300
- For running on soft and muddy terrain.
- Unrivalled grip: The most aggressive outsole in the inov-8 range boasts 8mm studs that deliver the best grip possible over muddy terrain.
- Beat the mud: The multi directional stud pattern ensures mud is released quickly from the outsole, so the studs are always able to deliver maximum grip with every step.
- Durability: A Dual-C combination of medium sticky and hard sticky rubbers ensure the studs stay strong over time and continue to deliver.
- Increased protection: The rand that wraps around the shoe's upper and toe bumper ensure outstanding protection against stones and other debris.
Review: A shoe designed for the muddy extreme of trail running, providing traction, stability, protection and a lightweight, flexible ride. It is a neutral shoe so not recommended for extreme pronators.
But, for those of you working on building up your foot strength and transitioning to less support, this is a great shoe.
Alternatively, a custom insole can be inserted to make up for the arch support that’s missing.
Pros
- Extreme traction.
- Extremely durable.
- Protective components such as the gusseted tongue.
- Water repellent.
- Flexible.
Cons
- A neutral shoe so may require a custom insole.
- Size runs small.
- Not suitable for road running.
Takeaway
For those of you planning a muddy adventure, this is the shoe to keep you on your feet.
BONUS: A different option to add to the mix!
Merrell Men's Vapor Glove 2 Trail
- Low-profile trail runner featuring lace-up vamp and pull tab at counter
- Breathable mesh and thermoplastic polyurethane upper
- Sticky Vibram outsole for traction
Review: This is a barefoot style shoe, included in the list purely as an option to consider if you’re interested in going in that direction.
But, be warned that it takes time to transition to this kind of shoe.
Pros
- Wide to cater for the spread of a flat foot.
- Good grip.
- Lightweight.
- A fabulous barefoot feel.
Cons
- Not as durable as they could be.
- Not to be worn without prior transition period of less supportive shoes.
Takeaway
If barefoot running is something that interests you, this shoe is a good option to wear for the occasional run while you transition, before eventually wearing it all the time!
What’s so Great about Trail Running Shoes?
Trail running shoes are similar to road running shoes but are typically more durable and provide more support and traction to cope with the variable terrain of off-road running.
They are made of a harder wearing material with a more protective upper design to keep annoying little stones and debris out of your shoes.
They may also be waterproof and have toe protection in case you stub your toe into a rock.
But, their most defining characteristic is their deep tread and superior grip, often with lugs to help keep you from sliding in even the muddiest conditions.
What are the Best Trail Running Shoes for Flat Feet?
Unless you’ve already decided to take the barefoot approach and have gone through the necessary transition period to strengthen your feet and ankles, you will need trail running shoes with a good amount of arch support and a stiffer medial midsole.
Choosing a shoe specifically designed for flat feet will reduce the chances of experiencing pain as a result of overpronation and consequently reduce the chances of injury.
The right shoe will make sure that your joints stay in alignment while running, preventing the stress on tendons and muscles that would otherwise lead to pain and injury.
Things to Look For:
Arch Support
This is usually in the form of a medial post, or firmer section of foam in the midsole that sits under the arch and prevents that section of the sole from compressing as much.
This prevents overpronation and keeps your joints in alignment.
Cushioning/Shock Absorption
If you have flat feet, you don’t have the natural mechanism of your arch in place to absorb the impact when you land.
This means you want really good shock absorption and cushioning to help protect your knees.
Wide Fit
People with flat feet also usually have wider feet as the foot is more spread out horizontally than someone with medium or high arches.
This means choosing a wider fit is important to keep your feet comfortable and allow for a healthy amount of toe splay.
Traction
This is more trail-specific than flat-feet specific. But, it’s really important.
Traction is probably the single most defining factor that sets aside trail shoes from their road running companions.
Look for soles with rubber in them and aggressive tread. If you know you’ll be running through soft, muddy conditions, you’ll benefit from some lugs too.
But, if you’re looking for a pair of shoes that will handle the trail and the road, look for aggressive tread but stay away from lugs as they’ll make road running really uncomfortable.
Weight and Stiffness
Last but not least, trail shoes are usually heavier and a little stiffer than road shoes. This is a result of them being more rugged and sturdy. But, not everyone loves the extra weight or lack of flexibility.
Some trail shoes are lighter than others so you can choose a lightweight option if you’re in this camp.
In summary, the best trail runners for flat feet are going to be the pair that provides the right amount of support for your degree of pronation, together with ample cushioning and adequate traction.
At the end of the day, comfort is key, so make sure the fit is perfect before you commit
If you know you have flat feet, but you’re not sure whether you want a trail-specific shoe, we have an article dedicated to the best running shoes for flat feet that will give you a range of other options.
But, there are some other things you can consider to remedy the problems resulting from your low arches:
- Do specific arch strengthening exercises – there are some great videos on Youtube specifically for this. Check them out!
- Walk around the house barefoot, consciously preventing your ankles from collapsing inwards using the muscles in your feet.
- Avoid wearing shoes that further restrict your feet or put them in an unnatural position such as tight-fitting shoes or high heels.
What Other Gear do You Need for Trail Running?
It’s not all about the shoes anymore. Trail running is being pushed further than ever before with the advent of new technology, making it possible to run in the dark, off-trail, and over the gnarliest of terrain without ending up with half of the trail in your shoes.
Trail watches are one example of this technology, and they’ve taken the trail running world by storm. The best trail running watches now come equipped with their own GPS and topo maps so you can leave your phone at home and use them for navigation as well as tracking all of your performance stats.
Headlamps are another example, with some of the best headlamps having enough hours of battery life on high beam to see you through multiple evening or early morning runs.
Meanwhile, less technological but no less helpful, trail running gaiters are keeping trail runners everywhere more comfortable by preventing trail debris from entering their shoes. The best trail running gaiters are so lightweight and snug fitting that you’ll forget you’re wearing them!
And that’s all, folks. Thanks for reading!
Remember, the best trail running shoes for flat feet are the shoes that fit you and are comfortable!
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