If you want the best running shoes for flat feet, check out our pick below!
It provides everything you need to know to make an informed decision.
Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned runner, our guide will help you find the ideal pair of shoes that provide the necessary support, comfort, and protection, allowing you to enjoy a pain-free and enjoyable running experience.
The 7 Best Running Shoes For Flat Feet
1. Best for Overpronators – Brooks Adrenaline GTS 21
2. Best for Long-Distance Runs – Asics Gel-Kayano 28
3. Most Comfortable – Saucony Guide 14
4. Best for Slick Surfaces – New Balance Fresh Foam 860v12
5. The Best Lightweight Choice – Hoka One One Arahi 5
What Are Flat Feet?
Flat feet, also known as fallen arches, are a common condition many people deal with. If you have flat feet, this means that the arches of your feet are lower than usual or nonexistent.
Some studies have shown that flat feet have some benefits. These benefits include better shock absorption and improved balance. Flat feet can also mean your feet are more flexible and adaptable to different surfaces and activities.
Some people with flat feet may indeed experience discomfort or pain, especially during prolonged standing or physical activity. Luckily, flat feet discomfort can typically be managed with proper footwear and exercises to strengthen the feet and ankles.
Importance of Choosing the Right Running Shoes for Flat Feet
Proper footwear can help alleviate discomfort and prevent injuries, allowing you to focus on enjoying your runs which is what we all want!
The best running shoes for flat feet are the ones that provide the support and stability your feet need while also ensuring they are cushioned and protected from impact.
With the right shoes, you can help prevent overpronation, which is when your foot rolls inward too much when you run, causing strain on your feet and legs.
Not only can the right shoes help prevent pain and injuries, but they can also help increase your performance ability.
With the right support and cushioning, you can run with better form and stride, making your runs more efficient and enjoyable.
Ultimately, investing in the right running shoes can make a huge difference in your running experience. With the right shoes, you can run more comfortably and confidently and enjoy all the benefits running offers.
Best Features in Running Shoes for Flat Feet
When it comes to finding the perfect running shoe for flat feet, it’s important to keep a few key features in mind.
First up, we have arch support. As you know, flat feet lack that natural arch that gives your feet the structure and support they need.
So, looking for shoes with built-in arch support or removable insoles that provide that extra lift is important.
Now let’s talk about stability and motion control. Flat feet can be a wild card, tending to overpronate or roll inward.
Shoes with features like stability or motion control can help keep those feet in check and provide the support and stability that flat feet crave.
Running can be tough on any feet, but it can be especially challenging for flat feet. So, look for shoes with ample cushioning that can absorb shock and reduce the impact.
1. Best for Overpronators – Brooks Adrenaline GTS 21
Weight: 9.1 oz, Shoe Type: Support Running Shoe, Heel-to-toe drop: 12mm
| Pros | Cons |
| Comfortable and cushioned ride | Slightly heavier than others |
| Good for a variety of distances and terrains | Higher price point compared to some others |
| Breathable upper |
If you have flat feet and need to find a great running shoe, you do not want to skip out on trying the Brooks Adrenaline GTS 21. This shoe is one of the best running shoes for flat feet.
This shoe features a built-in GuideRails system which is helpful in keeping the foot and knee properly aligned.
This is because it supports the arch and reduces overpronation.
This system also provides stability and motion control, perfect for preventing excessive inward rolling of the foot during the gait cycle.
The ample cushioning provided by the BioMoGo DNA technology of this shoe can adapt to each runner’s unique stride.
This is great because it provides personalized comfort and protection to whoever slips the shoe on!
Just because you do not have an arch in your foot does not mean your toes don’t need space.
The Brooks Adrenaline GTS 21 shoe has a spacious toe box allowing a natural toe splay. This is great because it reduces the risk of blisters and other foot injuries.
Shop Adrenaline GTS 21 On Brooks
2. Best for Long-Distance Runs – Asics Gel-Kayano 28
Weight: 9.5 oz, Shoe Type: Neutral Running Shoe Heel-to-toe drop: 10mm
| Pros | Cons |
| Comfortable for long-distance running | Not the lightest on the market |
| Beneficial for overpronators | May feel stiff |
| May last longer than others |
Another excellent running shoe choice for people with flat feet is the Asics Gel-Kayano 28.
This shoe’s Dynamic DuoMax Support System helps is also helpful when it comes to reducing overpronation.
This support system provides essential support to the foot’s arch, which is an absolute must when you do not have one!
When you have flat feet, it is important that your shoe has good stability and motion control. The Trusstic System of this shoe provides both of those things.
While people with flat feet may be able to absorb impact better, adding additional impact absorption can only help! The Asics’ signature Gel technology of this shoe provides cushioning and shock absorption that is superior to others.
The Asics Gel-Kayano 28 is made of durable and long-lasting materials that keep you comfortable even during your longest runs and highest volume months.
3. Most Comfortable – Saucony Guide 14
Weight: 9.4 oz, Shoe Type: All-purpose running shoe, Heel-to-toe drop: 8mm
| Pros | Cons |
| Designed with performance in mind | Smaller toe box area |
| Great on slick surfaces | May need to size up ½ size |
| Firm and supportive |
The Saucony Guide 14 is a frequently used shoe by road runners, and people with flat feet should put this at the top of their favorite shoe list too!
Not only will this shoe support your archless foot, but it will also provide a cozy fit.
A 3D-engineered fascia band is built into this shoe and helps to support the arch as you tick off the miles. Your feet will be provided maximum stability so you do not experience pain post-run.
Saucony does a great job creating a comfortable shoe. Their PWRRUN cushioning technology offers the perfect amount of comfort and is super durable as well.
The comfort keeps giving through all the miles. If comfort and durability are not enough, you will be thrilled with the responsiveness they provide.
If you need a super grippy shoe, then this shoe is for you!
The Guide 14 has a rubber outsole that includes a Tri-Flex design. This design provides superior grip and traction, which helps to ensure that the foot remains stable on any surface.
The FORMFIT technology of this shoe makes it able to conform to your foot. This means that your feet will feel snug and supported, which is key to having a shoe that fits securely.
4. Best for Slick Surfaces – New Balance Fresh Foam 860v12
Weight: 11.4 oz, Shoe Type: Everyday training shoe Heel-to-toe drop: 10mm
| Pros | Cons |
| Light-catching reflective accents | May take time to break in |
| Provides superior rebound | May feel too stiff for some |
| Ultra-cushioned, lightweight ride |
If your feet are flat, you are probably looking for a shoe with excellent arch support to stay pain-free.
This shoe is designed with a medial post which gives you great arch support and helps your feet land where they are meant to.
Overpronation is common in those with flat feet, and the medial post of this shoe will help to correct that as well.
Well known for comfort, the Fresh Foam midsole of the New Balance Fresh Foam 860v12 shoes provides perfect cushioning and responsiveness. Your feet will stay happy and healthy.
Shoes with great cushioning like these will stay comfortable for miles, and you want them to look nice for the duration of time that they feel nice.
These New Balance shoes are built to be durable and endure long-lasting wear.
When you are running, you want to stay upright. The outsole of these shoes is made with a rubber compound that provides excellent traction and grip on various surfaces.
5. The Best Lightweight Choice – Hoka One One Arahi 5
Weight: 7.8 oz, Shoe Type: Stability Running Shoe Heel-to-toe drop: 5mm
| Pros | Cons |
| Very lightweight | More expensive than others |
| Snug midfoot | Not the best on wet or slippery surfaces |
| Great for everyday |
A top-rated running shoe for runners with flat feet is the Hoka One One Arahi 5. Stability is really important for people with flat feet, and this shoe makes that a priority.
The J-Frame design provides all the stability and support a flat foot could need.
You won’t find yourself falling into a funky running stride or needing to consciously correct your habit of over-pronation.
The Arahi 5 is made with Hoka’s signature EVA foam, providing superior cushioning and comfort and keeping your feet safe from the constant impact you endure as a runner.
While some runners are more concerned with the sole of a shoe than the upper, the upper can sometimes be a game changer.
This shoe’s upper is made with a breathable mesh material that provides a comfortable and snug fit so your foot stays in place during running.
Hoka brand shoes tend to be known for being lightweight, and this model is no different.
The lightweight aspect of this shoe helps reduce the overall weight on the feet, which is essential for runners with flat feet.
6. Most Stylish – Nike Air Zoom Structure 23
Weight: 10.2 oz, Shoe Type: Daily Trainer Running Shoe, Heel-to-toe drop: 8mm
| Pros | Cons |
| Excellent traction on a variety of surfaces | Thick and stiff upper |
| Extremely durable outsole | May not be enough stability for some |
| Firmer forefoot and consistent ride |
For some people, once a Nike fan, always a Nike fan.
While Nike’s are not always the go to choice, The Nike Air Zoom Structure 23 is definitely a solid choice if you are lacking in the arch department.
This shoe has a dynamic support system that provides all the support you could ask for in your arch.
While they are stable shoes, they have some amount of give, so you will not feel like your foot is in a brace.
Even though flat-footed runners need arch support, they also need comfortable shoes, and finding the balance can be challenging.
Cushioning is key in a running shoe, especially if you run frequently. But not just any cushion. You want a shoe that rebounds quickly and gives more to your push-off than it takes.
With Nike’s signature Zoom Air technology, you experience comfort and responsiveness.
These are the perfect option if you like to wear stylish shoes during runs and while out running errands.
The sleek and stylish design of these will have you wanting a pair in every color to show off. Whether you want to wear them when out for a jog with friends or during a road race, people will surely notice.
7. Best for a Secure Feel – Mizuno Wave Inspire 19
Weight: 9.2 oz, Shoe Type: Stability Running Shoe Heel-to-toe drop: 12mm
| Pros | Cons |
| Innovatively light | May need to size up |
| Durable carbon rubber allows for longer wear | May need additional inserts |
| Optimal shock reduction |
Mizuno may be a footwear brand you are less familiar with but do not be afraid to give it a chance!
The Wave Inspire 19 is one of the best running shoes for flat feet, thanks to its many features.
The Mizuno Enerzy Foam that this shoe features is very responsive, and users report it as being very springy and great at reducing shock to deliver a superior ride.
The outsole of this shoe includes Mizuno’s SmoothRide Engineering, which creates the feel of a smooth transition from heel to toe.
This is exactly what a flat-footed runner should look for, as it helps to reduce the risk of injury and post-run pain.
Not only do they give you a superior ride, but they are also super durable.
The durable carbon rubber of this shoe makes them long-lasting so that you can take them on all the adventures your heart desires.
Support-wise, these shoes definitely do not disappoint. They are made up of a mesh wrap that provides enhanced support on both the medial and lateral sides of the shoe.
Feeling smooth in your stride will not be a problem, and you should not have to worry about that pesky overpronation problem you have probably dealt with in the past.
Takeaways
Finding the right running shoes is crucial, especially for those with flat feet.
Flat feet can cause discomfort, pain, and even injuries while running, making it essential to wear shoes that provide the necessary support, stability, and cushioning.
The shoes we have talked about are some of the best running shoes for flat feet, each with unique features that cater to the needs of runners with flat feet.
By choosing the right running shoes, runners with flat feet can enjoy a comfortable, stable, and injury-free running experience.
