10 Best Running Shoes for Flat Feet Runners
By Brian Price
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Top Best Running Shoes for Flat Feet – Take a look at the Pros & Cons and what to be aware of before buying Flat Fleet Running shoes online or in a store
Running is a great way to help the body remain healthy by getting good overall exercise. In order to do this effectively it is very to have the right shoes, best fitting for your particular feet. Do you like running, but you have flat feet, so not all of those new and trendy shoes work well for you, sometimes even causing some pain?
There are plenty of shoes out there which are suitable for flat feet, But there are so many choices available on the market today, that is can often be difficult to know which ones you should buy. For that reason, we have put together this resource, sharing recommendations of the best running shoes for flat feet.
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10 Best Running Shoes For Flat Feet
Brooks Adrenaline GTS 17
For someone with flat feet, the Adrenaline has been reported as very comfortable. Overall, Brooks has not made many changes with this new addition. Instead, the company honed the aspects runners appreciate most about this shoe: comfort and good arch support. Especially good features for someone who is flat-footed is the Biomogo DNA Midsole cushioning --which provides the arch support one with flat feet require-- and the Diagonal Roll Bar of which the company says “guides the body back into its natural motion path”. Some reviews reported that the shoe was too narrow, especially in the toe box, however, there were plenty of reviews that reported the opposite, so this may come down to personal preference.
Quality / Durability
There are some reviews that say this shoe wears out quickly, but the overall quality is great.
Cost
The price falls in middle but can be found on Amazon at a reasonable sum. Overall, this is a shoe that just about has it all and would be a worthy investment for a flat-footed, over-pronator that is looking for a light shoe that is good for almost any activity you might do.
- Comfortable
- Constructed with an adjustable saddle design which provides targeted support
- Lightweight
- Omega Flex Grooves allow flexibility for more natural movement
- Great support for runners with flat feet
- The fit of this version is slightly tighter than the previous one
Saucony Guide 10
This shoe is built with more cushioning, and many endurance runners appreciate this. Using the Everun technology in the topsole, the shoe feels quite responsive while giving you a softer landing. Those with flat feet appreciate added structure to the midsole as well. However, there are quite a few reviews that report that the Guide feels tighter than previous models and a handful that say the shoe interior has caused some pain and blistering. Overall, reviews tend to be overwhelming positive otherwise.
Quality / Durability
For the most part, reviews report that this shoe lasts and the quality is great. Although a few report that the shoe interior lining wears quickly, holes in the lining especially seem to form around the heal. However, Saucony upgraded the upper and mesh of the shoes to provide a more flexible fit, a lighter feel, and more air flow. So far, reports about the quality of this improvement are positive.
Cost
The price is quite average. For a quality shoe, is a reasonable price and can be found on Amazon at the lower end of the range.
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Comfortable
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Responsive
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Great cushioning and support
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Good for road running and track
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Aesthetic upgrade
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The lining around the heel wears down quickly.
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This model seems to run narrow, plan to size up.
Asics GEL Kayano 24
Runners seem to prefer the Kayano 24 as a good trainer, especially when they log miles, due to the significant amount of cushioning. Made for over-pronators, the shoe comes with Fluidride Midsole technology that reviews confirm is true to the advertisement on the website with its “bounce-back and cushioning properties”. There were mixed reviews on the shoes fit, some feel that, despite Asics efforts to make the shoe more suited towards those with wide feet, that the shoe still runs narrow in the toe box. One reviewer also mentioned that the shoe cut slightly higher which caused rubbing around the ankle, thus being uncomfortable. However, the overall trend of reviews moves in a positive trajectory.
Quality / Durability
A reviewer reported that the quality seemed cheap due to the lettering dissolving and the color of the shoe fusing with the laces, however, this was one of very few negative reviews about the quality. As for durability, there is a consensus that these shoes will take you a long way before needing to be replaced.
Cost
The price point for these is set high. However they do have the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA) seal of acceptance, so perhaps that counts for something. However, the general opinion of reviewers is that these are quality all-around shoes, so if you don’t mind the high price, they certainly won’t be a waste of your money.
- Exoskeletal heel counter for additional support
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APMA Seal of Acceptance
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Durable
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Good trainers
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Improved upper
- Gel cushioning system in rear and forefoot manages sock from impacts
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Runs a bit tight
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Pricey
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Mixed reports of comfort
Mizuno Wave Inspire 13
Overall, there have not been many changes to this shoe. However, runners believe there is significantly more cushioning in the sole and are impressed that because of this, the shoe has not increased in weight. Runners have noticed that they especially feel support around the ankle and heel. Also, unlike many running shoes, as there are next to no reports on the shoe being either too tight or too large, it seems that Mizuno is good about making shoes that are true to size. Runners report that the toe box is roomy enough for toes to splay.
Quality / Durability
It's hard to find a negative review on either the quality or durability. Mizuno has discovered the fine balance of making a comfortable and relatively light shoe that is slow to wear out.
Cost
The Mizuno Wave Inspire 13 is competitive with other reliable shoes in fit, durability, as well as price. It falls mid-range, but with all its qualities in mind, the price is right.
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Improved cushioning
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Improved mesh for breathability
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Heel and ankle support
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True to size
- The lightweight U4ic midsole
- While these shoes have maintained a consistent weight despite added cushioning, they are still on the heavy end of the spectrum
New Balance 860v4
- ABZORB cushioning system provides shock absorption and decent responiveness
- Lightweight construction
- Upper breathability is pretty good
- Great traction on various types of surfaces
- Works well with countering pronation
- The rubber outsole that covers the toe seems to come unglued after a while of use, but doesn't affect function
Asics GT-2000 4
- Rear and forefoot Gel cushioning
- exoskeletal heel counter provides heel clutching fit
- Asics' FluidRide midsole offers cushioning and shock absorption
- Enough comfort and support for flat feet
- They do run about a size smaller
Brooks Beast 14
- Breathable mesh upper reinforced with overlays for durability and added support
- Brooks DNA and BioMoGo run full length for comfort and shock absorption
- Adequate support for those with flat feet
- Sizing runs a bit small
Saucony Omni 13
- Grid cushioning provides sole-based stability
- Ideal for runners with flat feet
- Lightweight
- Decent upper breathability
- Probably not ideal for wide feet
Nike LunarGlide 7
- Breathable Flyknit upper
- Flywire cables provide a secure fit without adding weight
- Lunarlon foam cushioning
- Good support for flat feet
- Some felt there should be better traction on wet surfaces
Karhu Strong 5 Fulcrum
- Sufficient support for flat feet
- Design offer subtle gait guidance
- Minor rocker design allows smooth transitions
- A bit tight in the toe box
Shoe companies often produce shoes with specific features designed to reduce impact. For runners with flat feet, shoes with good and high stability, motion control and great support are the optimal choice. The following guide highlights the 10 best running shoes which provide the above mentioned features, making them suitable options for runners with flat feet.
What Is A “Flat Foot”?
For some runners, it is difficult to recognize whether their feet are flat or not. And you may ask, what exactly is a flat foot? The simple answer is this, on impact, the arch of the foot collapses with entire foot making contact with the ground. As you may know the arch of the foot is also formed by the tarsal and metatarsal bones, strengthened by tendons and ligaments. this allows the foot to support the weight of the body.
In other words, the foot arch is a natural shock absorption system. Designed to alleviate the shock and impact of your own body weight, which can affect your hips, feet, knees and ankles. In addition, the height of the arch can determine pronation as well as foot type. The arch height of the foot can be checked by using the ‘wet feet test’.
A flat foot is often related to pronation, as your ankles and feet roll inward when in motion. You will notice if happens with your feet by checking your shoes, the sole is often worn much more on the inner edge. This will increase the likelihood of injury and eventually lead to several long term problems. In fact, Flat feet are a particular concern for runners, as during the running gait the arch has to support on average 3 times of the runners body weight. A running shoe best suitable for flat feet must meet all of the requirements above.
The Criteria We Used For Our Evaluation Of The Best Shoes For Flat Feet
Do they provide the right type of stability & support
Stability, good support and motion control are the important features you should remember when looking for running shoes best suitable for flat feet. A person with flat feet has to care much more about the stability that a running shoe gives.
In fact, that stability is considered as an industry standard term, which categorizes running shoes which aim to help with overpronation.
Do they provide motion control
Typical motion controlling running shoes also have the same technology such as stability with added upper construction in order to lock in the runner’s feet and provide additional support. Also, hard material usually offers more motion control and stability to shoes as well as also helping support the arch and keep it in the proper position. Some runners don’t like a high and hard arch. Therefore if you find it uncomfortable during a short walk, it will also be just as uncomfortable for running, too.
In the past decade, the demand for shoes which are suitable for flat feet has increased; the need for high quality track shoes has taken a important role among the shoe manufacturing industry. This high demand has created the good opportunity for most major shoe brands to produce and offer these three important shoe features to help flat footed runners achieve optimum performance on the track. Runners with flat feet often found it difficult to keep up with the speed and agility that their competitors had with a normal stride twenty years ago.
Thanks to recent advances in technology, shoe companies have developed the science of ergonomics which is aimed at producing the best sneaker for flat feet, available for both male and female runners. The current market is full of great choices for running shoes; A runner now has many options when choosing a specific pair of shoes which suits their individual needs. Therefore, here are 3 things you should remember when looking for running shoes that are best suitable for flat feet.
First, it is suggested to should buy shoes which are provide good and high stability. As each brand has their own collection of High Stability Running Shoes, it should be fairly easy to find one that works best for you.
Second, make sure that the shoe you choose is has good motion control properties as well as shock absorption. Motion Control shoes usually include enhanced stability options.
Last, a flat foot requires much more support. When you look at technical specifications or shoe reviews, any indication of “added support” means you are headed in the right direction. You should search for shoes, which have high support properties as they are better able to sustain your feet properly when running.
It is important to remember that each individual has their own needs. So, in addition to looking for the elements mentioned in this guide, it is equally important to do your own research when choosing running shoes for flat feet.
As running shoes, in addition to the extra support, we are also looking for many of the same features that you would want in footwear for regular arches. Those features include:
How is their grip?
A good grip on the road is obviously important. If wouldn’t be helpful to the added stress sometimes felt with flat feet, to have a pair of shoes that tend to slip all over the place during your run.
We look for things such as the proper amount of tread for the shoe’s intended purpose. This factor can often depend on your particular environment, climate and the types of surfaces a specific pair of runners is designed to be used on.
Do they breathe?
Like any running footwear, this is a big one. You don’t want to go on a long run wearing something that has very little airflow, and retains all of the moisture from your sweat. Aside from being uncomfortable, the lack of ventilation and moisture control in a running shoe can actually create issues with the feet.
Proper breathability can reduce the chance of bacterial problems caused by constant sweating, and the feet staying immersed in it consistently for long periods of time. It is critically important to keep the feet dry and ventilated.
Are they flexible?
Although you’re looking for added support, you still don’t want to go on a run with something that feels like a pair of stiff boards strapped to your feet. Running shoes need to have enough flexibility to allow the feet to function as naturally as possible.
Although we are looking for the type of flexibility that minimalist footwear offers, but we do want to see that the shoes allow natural motion of the feet.
Do they have enough sole?
As flat feet require more center support, they also need to have adequate shock absorption and protection from impact.
You won’t find that type of necessary support in a pair of minimalistic runners, so you can cross those of the list. The ideal choice would be a shoe that offers decent cushioning, while still the fallen arch of the foot well supported.
With new materials and technologies, the days of having to go on a run wearing a pair of big bulky shoes shoes are pretty much in the past. these days many of the choices out there come in a much more low profile design than they would have years ago.
How Durable are they?
Like with any other running shoe, you want them to last. We looked for any major complaints regarding durability, as well as the quality of the materials and construction.
Certain features such as high abrasion rubber compound used on the outsole, upper design, including supportive overlays are put together well, and also do certain pats of the shoe tend to wear out prematurely.
Nothing is more annoying than buying a new pair of runners and having sections of the sole come unglued shortly after you purchase them.
More Important Things To Consider When Searching For The Best Running Shoes For Flat Feet
In order to choose the best suitable running shoes for flat feet, you have to understand clearly about characteristic features of shoes. Under information will provide with you necessary knowledge.
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Flat-Footed Dynamics
Flat-footed runners also tend to over pronate. This means that their feet roll inwards too far when walking or running. As a result, your feet strike the ground with a collapsed arch, causing your knee to compensate for this by twisting your ankle. To fix this issue, flat-footed runners should wear running shoes that have stability features that help prevent foot rolling. Motion control shoes can also be helpful because they help reduce extra foot motions.
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Well-cushioned
Shoes with a firm middle arch cushion offer a stable balance to help prevent stumbling while running. Another feature supplied in most running shoes for flat feet is the additional cushioning in the forefront and heel. This is useful with shock absorption and can prevent painful shin splints.
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Enough stability
Stability shoes provide density underfoot with foam to help support your arch. They may also help reduce necessary foot motions.
Motion control shoes have a bump made with hard material, where you arch supposed to be. Motion Control running shoes apply the same solutions as Stability shoes, with special sole unit/upper construction to lock your foot in position and support it throughout the ride. In other words, they provide features such as stiff heels or a design built on straightener lasts in order to counter overpronation. They can help runners with exactly flat feet and a high level of overpronation. If when you wear the shoe you can feel it during a simple walk, you will definitely feel it (and hate it) during your running. However not all runners feel suitable with it, But motion control is a must if you are dealing with this issue. Some models have gel in a ball and heel areas for added comfort.
How to choose the best running shoe for your feet?
How to choose the best running shoes for your type of feet? Here are some tips for you to refer:
- ask a podiatrist’s idea. Being a foot doctor, a podiatrist can tell you know about severity of your condition and may suggest the best sneakers for flat feet.
- Read running shoes reviews. Product reviews are written by actual users who have used flat foot running shoes. But don’t just look for reviews that sing praises about the products. Look for honest reviews that include user ratings and pros and cons.
- make comparison among products. Look for websites that have comparison tables to have easier selection.
- Ask your friends or people around you. Do you know people who have similar condition like you? Ask them the types of their sneakers for flat feet and then look them up online.
Most good running shoes for flat feet will cost over 100 dollars. Cheaper alternatives are available, but do not always expect them to perform equally to those that cost a bit more. In short, it’s always better to invest in running shoes now than to pay doctors to treat knee, foot, and hip problems later down the road.
FAQ
Here are some frequently asked questions that reflect concerns from many searching for the same type of product online. Hopefully theses questions will even spark some of your own.
Q: Can I safely run with flat feet?
A: You can run safely, and even comfortably with flat feet. To do so requires the appropriate footwear. The big factor to consider is if your running shoes provide the correct type of support.
Q: I have flat feet and severely overpronate. Do any of these running shoe models offer the right support for both?
A: As often time these two conditions follow each other, Many of the models which are ideal for flat feet are also good choices for other issues requiring support and motion control. So yes, some of them do.
Q: If I purchase a pair of runners that are ideal choices for flat feet, will I still need to use my orthotic insole that I am using with less suitable shoes?
A: If you pick up footwear which is either intended or suitable for providing adequate support, you probably won’t need to use your insoles with those shoes.
Q: I have purchase footwear online before, and each time I ended up with sizes that didn’t quite fit right. Any suggestions?
A: Locate the models you want in a local shoe store and try them on. Make sure they fit perfectly, then be certain to remember the correct size when ordering online.
In conclusion, the elements discussed above are really very important to finding a good and comfortable shoe. I hope that this guide on choosing the best running shoes for flat feet has been helpful.
Having flat feet is no longer a barrier, preventing you from performing the way you want. You just have to be smart in choosing the shoes that are best suitable for your feet. Balance the pros and cons and make your choice based on practicality and affordability, however you shouldn’t be too thrifty, because this is a choice that not only improves your performance, but one that significantly help prevent injuries from lack of support.
Here are some sources we used during our research
To get the best information, we have searched high and low for reliable sources which offer good insight into how to not only deal with flat feet, but prevent further issues by finding the proper support in the most suitable running shoes available.
Sources
- , Flat Feet and High Arches, Clinical information website,
- , Acquired Adult Flatfoot Deformity , Clinical information website,
- , Flexible Flatfoot, Informational website,
- , What Kind of Shoes Are Good for Flat Feet?, Running enthusiast website, Sep 28, 2012
- , Are Flat-Footed Runners Prone to Injury?, Running enthusiast website, Aug 27, 2013
- , How Does Running Affect Me If I Have Flat Feet?, Running website, Sep 10, 2013
- , How to Run With Flat Feet , Health & Fitness publication, Jun 26, 2015
- , Can I still run with flat feet?, Running blog, Oct 22, 2014
All You Need To Know About Running and Flat Feet
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