12 Best Running Shoes for Flat Feet Runners
By Brian Price
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Running is one of the most popular sports in the world and that’s not a surprise for us. When you run, you can feel free, you can enjoy everything around you, have a another look at the nature. Even when you train on the gym and you use treadmill, you can test yourself and push to the limits. Running has so many advantages that it’s really sad when you have illnesses and issues that make it harder to run. Well, if you have fallen arches, running can be much more painful. But, don’t be sad as there are many other ways how to deal with this and and still keep on running. The shoes are the basics. Without good shoes with a lot of stability and protection, you may even hurt your feet.
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- Brooks Adrenaline GTS17
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Our rating - Biomogo DNA Midsole
- Price: See Here
- Saucony Guide 10
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Our rating - Everun technology topsole
- Price: See Here
- ASICS Gel Kayano 24
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Our rating - Exoskeletal heel counter
- Price: See Here
12 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 Vongo v2
The overall consensus between reviewers is that the Vongo is a really comfortable shoe. You would be hard-pressed to find a negative response to this new model. The Vongo has a dense midsole with New Balances Fresh Foam technology finally being introduced to the stability series and runners appreciate a wide toe box. Also, some other new features are the updated mesh upper that is breathable, built-in bootie construction and sock-liner.
Quality / Durability
Reviews on quality and durability are all positive, the shoe is comfortable and it lasts.
Cost
Despite the price, runners seem satisfied with the comfort and the quality/durability of the shoe. The general understanding is that it is a worthwhile investment.
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Bootie construction
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Molded sockliner
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No-sew material application
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Improved synthetic/mesh upper for breathability
Socks slipped a little around the heel, causing some rubbing
Brooks Beast 16
A huge proponent to the shoe's stability and comfort is the Super DNA Midsole which offers extra padding and support. It is, by far one of the most cushioned shoes on the market, making it perfect for long distance and/or large runners that are overpronators. Also, the shoe comes with an external heel to reinforce support in the rear of the foot. Reviews on the Beast 16 generally fall on the positive side. Runners are happy with the updates, while it keeps its overall fit and feel of previous models. A few reviews berate the shoe saying it does not feel as solid as previous models, however, the general consensus is that it is a comfortable shoe.
Quality / Durability
Reviewers believe the overall quality of the shoe is great. There are very few negative reviews about it, and some even say the quality has increased with using updated and contemporary materials. Durability is great as well, however, there were a few reviews that noted it wore down quickly in the toe area on the insole.
Cost
Can be found for a moderate price on Amazon, but it's pretty expensive elsewhere.
- Breathable mesh upper reinforced with overlays for durability and added support
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Super DNA Midsole provides added cushioning
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Extended Progressive Diagonal Rollbar provides motion control
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Great quality and durability
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Lots of support and padding for long distance, large, overpronating runners
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External heel
One of the heavier shoes on the market.
Brooks Ravenna 8
Ravenna combines both stability and comfort. This means that it will work for over pronators. The special cushion is said to adapt with your stride. The shoes are surprisingly lightweight( don’t forget that there’s big amount of cushioning). Runners said that the breathability is okay, there’s mesh in the upper that will also prevent any small elements. The protection is good for running on the roads but not for the trails.
Durability/ Quality
Runners enjoyed the lifespan of the shoes, the materials lasted for a long time.
Cost
You can get this shoe for about 110 dollars but there are many other discounts and the shoes can be purchased even for 70 dollars.
They have very soft cushion
Stability and support at the high level
The toe box is too narrow for some runners
Saucony Omni 16
The mesh upper has been further designed for a comfortable and lightweight feel. For an adaptable midfoot, Saucony applies the SAUC-FIT technology in the midfoot, resulting in great arch support. This model also comes with an external heel to provide extra support and comfort in the rear of the shoe. Like most Saucony shoes, the EVERUN Topsole Construction is applied in the Omni 16 as well as the TRI-FLEX outsole. Those new to Saucony feel that the shoe takes a little longer to break in than others, but are encouraged by the comfort of the shoe once it is broken in. Overall, the reviews for this shoe are overwhelmingly positive in terms of support, comfort, and cushioning. Reviewers are also surprised by how light it is for a support shoe.
Quality / Durability
You’d be hard fought to find a negative review on the durability and quality of the shoe, there is a reason why the Omni 16 made it to this list and is one of the best on the market.
Cost
The Omni 16 is on the expensive end of the range, but there is a reason for this. It is a good quality shoe, provides excellent support and cushioning, all the while finding a way to reduce weight. Having all of these qualities in a shoe is tough, especially with the sufficient cushioning and support while keeping the shoe light and durable. Most reviewers feel that it is worth the cost.
- Mesh upper provides a dynamic, lightweight fit
- SAUC-FIT technology in the midfoot provides support
- External heel Support Frame
- EVERUN Topsole Construction for extra cushioning
- Updated TRI-FLEX outsole
- Takes longer to break in.
Nike LunarGlide 9
A new addition on the LunarGlide 9 is the one-piece textile upper that provides breathability and support. As you tighten your laces, Nike’s Flywire cables help secure your foot for a hug-like feel. Nike used the Lunarlon cushioning system, that apparently uses two different types of foam for added comfort and stability. The material on the tongue and upper of the shoe are different from the previous model, and reviews are satisfied with the comfort and look of these changes.
Quality / Durability
Overall, the quality and durability are good, however, a couple reviews noted that the mesh began ripping early on.
Cost
The LunarGlide 9 is one of least expensive on this list and is a quality shoe as well.
- A one-piece textile upper provides breathability and support
- New hidden Flywire provide a hug-like feel
- Lunarlon cushioning system uses two types of foam
- New sleek look
- Reviews report that the upper wears a little quicker than expected
Karhu Strong 5 Fulcrum
For a stability shoe, the Strong 5 Fulcrum is on the lighter side at 10.7 oz. The company prides itself in reducing wasted energy through the positioning of the shoe. For example, the Fulcrum technology has a gentle forward tilt which is supposed to increase balance and lessen excursion. Not the best for running in the heat, the shoe tends to retain a lot of heat due to poor ventilation.
Quality / Durability
Very few reviews berate its quality or durability. The Strong 5 Fulcrum lasts and is especially good for long distances and as a training shoe.
Cost
Pretty inexpensive compared to shoes such as the Kayano and anything Saucony, and they have very good qualities for the price. A great shoe to lay down the miles in.
- Sufficient support for flat feet
- Design offer subtle gait guidance
- Minor rocker design allows smooth transitions
- Poor ventilation
Saucony Mirage 5
For bigger cfomfort while runing, especially with flat feet, the level of stability is very high. There’s additional cushioning at the front. Powergrid provides more natural running gait. It also makes the shoes much lighter and what’s more, the responsiveness has also improved, comparing to the Saucony previous version.Special ProLock lacing system also helps to prevent injuries as your feet stay in place.The upper is highly reflective so you’re more protected while running in the dark.
Quality/ Durability
Saucony has carbon rubber which is very durable, there’s also blown rubber so your shoes are durable but they’re flexible at the same time. Solid outsole means that you’re less prone to injuries. Solid outsole also really affects the traction, users said that it worked great on tracks and roads.
Cost
This is an average cost for this type of shoes. If you want to save some money, it’s worth to look for them on sale, as even 10 or 20% of discount can make a difference.
Very breathable mesh in the upper
Excellent for those who look for stability and protection
Special moisture control lining
Many runners had problem with choosing the best size as the shoes run small
ASICS GT 2000 5
If you want to stay comfortable and protected while the run, special technology will help you with it. There’s great amount of cushioning that prevents any injuries that may happen to you on hard surfaces. These are the shoes with a lot of stability. The shock absorption in these shoes was praised by many runners, they said that the shoes were supportive. The sock liner makes absorbing the moisture easier and it also improves the breathability. The mesh material provides more flexibility and the material in the upper isn’t thick but some runners said that the shoes were to heavy.
Durability/ Quality
The high quality rubber is very solid and reviewers said that the shoes last for a very long time. They’re more like road running shoes, not for trail.
Cost
Let’s be honest- this isn’t definitely the lowest price. In regular price, you will need to spend on them more than 110 dollars. That’s a lot of money and for many people, especially beginners , it may be too high but for those who want to invest in good running shoes- this is a deal.
They provide high level of support
The upper is breathable
They’re very flexible
For some runners the sizing was tricky and the shoes were also a little too narrow
Shoe companies often produce shoes with specific features designed to reduce impact. For runners with low arches, 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.
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 does this really mean? 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’.
This is often related to pronation, as your ankles and feet roll inward when in motion. You will notice it 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, this is a particular concern for runners, as during the running gait the arch has to support on average 3 times of the runner’s body weight.
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 this particular foot type. 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 has increased; the need for high-quality track shoes has taken an important role in 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. Many unners 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 option 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.
First, it is suggested to should buy shoes which 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 has good motion control properties as well as shock absorption. Motion Control shoes usually include enhanced stability options.
Last, This foot type 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 a proper and effective pair of running shoes.
As for 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, 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, we do want to see that the shoes allow natural motion of the feet.
Do they have enough sole?
As fallen arches 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 off the list. The ideal choice would be a shoe that offers decent cushioning, while still, the fallen arch of the footwell supported.
With new materials and technologies, the days of having to go on a run wearing a pair of big bulky 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 parts 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 right pair, you have to understand clearly about the general characteristic features of shoes. Here are some things you should know before heading out to shop.
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Flat-Footed Dynamics
Flat-footed runners also tend to overpronate. 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, you might consider wearing 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 this foot type 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. 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 the severity of your condition and may suggest the best options.
- Read running shoe reviews. Product reviews are written by actual users who have actually gone for a run in the shoes you are considering. 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 comparisons between products. Look for websites that have comparison tables to have an easier selection.
- Ask your friends or people around you. Do you know people who have a similar condition like you? Ask them the types of their sneakers for flat feet and then look them up online.
Many solid options 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, these 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 also 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 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 when searching for 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 helps 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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