Shopping for shoes can be a fun and exciting activity. But, for people with flat feet, these can seem tedious and frustrating. With all the designs posing cool tech and unique features, it can be challenging to find the best shoes for support. There are special features to keep in mind when searching for flat feet shoes, but first, here are the top picks.
Table of Contents
Top Shoes for Flat Feet
1. ASICS Women’s Gel-Kayano Running Sneaker
This design has a unique feature that enhances the feet’ natural gait cycle from heel-strike to toe-off.
Key Features
- Fluid ride midsole
- Fluid fit upper
- Heel clutching system technology
- Impact guidance system technology
- Rearfoot and forefoot cushioning
The overall design of this shoe makes it ideal for extra support. It features a unique midsole that combines bounce back motion and cushioning properties. It helps to reduce weight and exceptional durability.
You will love the flexible upper design. It adapts to your foot to create a customized fit for comfort. The support and stability you get with this pair are unmatchable.
2. ASICS Men’s 1011A541-020-14 Gel Kayano Sneaker
This pair combines comfort and support to give you the best running experience.
Key Features
- SpevaFoam 45
- Gel technology cushioning system
- High-abrasion rubber outsole
- Flexible midsole
The shoes have a unique cushioning system that absorbs shock during impact and toe-off phases of running. It allows the feet to move in different directions providing support all through the gait cycle.
The shoes are super durable; however, they can be too wide at the front for some people.
3. Brooks Women’s Transcend 6 Shoes
Brooks is known for its high-quality sneakers. This pair is an ideal choice for flat feet, thanks to the supportive design.
Key Features
- Breathable upper
- Excellent traction
- Lace-up closure
- Reinforced toe box
The pair combines the comfort of breathable fabric and the support of a firm midsole. It is ideal for regular runners as it contours to the shape of the feet. With the lace-up closure, these shoes are comfortable to wear and remove.
4. Brooks Men’s Transcend 6 Running Shoe
This particular pair from Brooks is ideal for runners who need support.
Key Features
- Excellent cushioning
- Maximum comfort
- Plush fit
- Holistic support
The DNA LOFT cushioning of this pair provides a soft feel under the feet without compromising on the durability and responsiveness. It provides step-in comfort for optimal performance when running. The internal stretch makes these shoes flexible for a perfect fit.
The shoes provide support all around; however, they can be a little hard while new. The good thing is it softens up the more you wear it to conform to your feet’s shape and mould.
5. Saucony Women’s Guide 10 Running Shoe
If you are looking for a running shoe for regular use, this Saucony Women’s design is an ideal choice.
Key Features
- Removable insole
- Comfortable
- Excellent support
- Durable outsole
The shoes are designed to suit people that need extra support when running. If you have flat feet, these can help you enhance your stability as you run. They have a supportive midsole and come with a removable insole to improve the support.
The shoes are super comfortable; however, they run a size smaller. If you intend to use them with the insole, consider buying a size larger than your regular size.
6. Saucony Men’s S20548-25 Guide 13 Running Shoe
The right running pair should combine comfort with support for optimal performance. This men’s pair from Saucony is one of the best stability shoes for flat feet.
Key Features
- New medial TPU guidance frame
- Formfit design
- Excellent cushioning
One of the outstanding features that stand out with this shoe is the medial TPU guidance frame. It is quickly and quietly guides your foot through its natural gait cycle. It is super supportive and provides flexibility all around the foot. On this note, it is suitable for a wide range of foot shapes.
Related post: The Best Walking Sandals for Men and Women
What to Look for When Buying Shoes for Flat Feet
Arch Support
The structure of the foot contains up to 26 bones and 33 joints. These, together with over 100 muscles, ligaments, and tendons, make up the arch of your foot. The arch works to help your body move and absorb your weight regardless of the surface. If you have a low arch, which is the case with flat-footed people, you need shoes that provide additional support.
The design of the shoe should replicate the normal curve of the foot. The best shoes for people with flat feet should have a firm midsole to provide extra support. Companies such as New Balance, Asics, and Saucony have some of the best options.
Comfort
Comfort is the ultimate goal, as with every pair of shoes. For flat feet, this quality can be overlooked when chasing arch support. The best shoes should be comfortable all around. The outsole should be tough enough to absorb any shock underneath.
The midsole should be adequately cushioned but firm enough to combine stability and comfort. If you are looking for a pair to wear regularly, then you might want to consider the weight of the shoes. Generally, lightweight shoes are advisable, but some might not provide the support for flat feet.
Ideally, you should get a pair that is less strenuous to your feet yet solid enough to support your arch and keep you comfortable. Comfort is critical, and you can only test it by wearing shoes.
Overall Design
Shoes for flat feet people come in a unique design to provide much-needed comfort and stability. When choosing a pair, consider the last. A last in shoe terminologies is the mould or shape that the shoe is built around. This mould plays a significant role in how the foot fits. A straight last is advisable as it gives your feet a wider base and plenty of room to allow flexibility.
On the design still, consider a low-drop shoe. The drop means the difference in height between the toe and the heel. For example, high heels are high drop while flip flops are no drops. As much as most shoes for flat feet are low-drop, consider the difference in height for the right pair.
The Fit
Like other walking shoes, flat feet pairs should fit properly. The fit not only affects the comfort but also contribute to the stability of the shoes. The right pair should be in your regular size with a few considerations on the type of socks and your overall shoe width.
Flat feet require extra support and stability hence the need for wider shoes. You want to ensure your feet have enough wiggle room to move freely as you run. On this note, consider getting a shoe with a large-enough toe box. Toes are prone to pressure point pain; therefore, consider a supportive toe box design.
When it comes to the sizes, it is essential to note that this varies from one pair to another. A New Balance pair in your size does not mean an Asics pair in the same size will fit you perfectly. It is also essential to consider that men and women’s sizes differ.
Similarly, the width of shoes differs from one company to the other. You want to choose a pair in the right size, both in length and width. If the shoes are too tight, they can cause discomfort and pain. If the fit is loose, they can cause foot pain and affect motion control.
Related post: The Best Plantar Fasciitis Insoles
FAQ
Although flat feet have been associated with having many problems, people with flat feet can engage in just any sport. As long as the feet get the right arch support, stability, and comfort, a person with flat feet can enjoy working out, running, cycling, etc.
Birkenstocks, among other shoe companies, have unique walking shoes for flat feet. As much as Birkenstock has suitable pairs for flat feet, you can explore other options to compare and ensure you find the right pair.
Running shoes for flat feet should feature supportive midsoles that help to distribute the weight evenly. Consider firm midsoles with adequate cushioning to provide comfort as well.
The Bottom Line
The above choices are ideal for flat feet. These pairs have been tested and proven to work for people with flat feet. With consideration of the features explained above, you can easily select the best running shoes for flat feet.
