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Best Running Shoes For Flat Feet – 2021 Buying Guide
We've done the deep dive, so you don't have to.
Read on to learn which stability running shoe features the best arch support, motion control, and flexibility for any type of flat foot.
NOTE: If you continue to experience foot pain, even after selecting the proper shoe size and support system, consult a podiatrist for a more detailed diagnosis.
Standout Picks
Criteria Used for Evaluation
Motion Control
Stability, good support, and motion control are the important features you should remember when looking for best trainers for flat feet. A person with flat feet has to care much more about the motion and stability that a running shoe gives. It is something you cannot compromise on with running shoes and other fitness accessories.
The best running shoes for women with flat feet, or men, specifically address the motion control that your feet need. If you have flat feet you know that you have probably experienced what it feels like to run in a pair of shoes that doesn't address your needs. The best running shoe for flat feet provides you with the right support and stability to fix those problems and prevent them from occurring again. If you are tired of dealing with shin splints, foot pain, and all the other issues that come with low or fallen arches, then you need to make sure the flat feet running shoes you are looking for providing you the right amount of motion control to help you keep pushing forward.
Support
Support is essential when looking for running shoes for flat feet. Typical motion control shoes have the same technology, such as stability with added upper construction to lock in the runner's feet and ensure a smooth ride.
Also, the hard material usually offers more motion control and stability and arch support to keep the foot in the proper position. Some runners don't like a high and hard arch. Therefore if you find your walking shoes uncomfortable for daily activities, they will also be just as uncomfortable for running, too.
With running shoes for flat feet, you will find that they provide specific support for runners with fallen arches. If you are a neutral runner or someone that under pronates instead of overpronates, you will find these shoes offer too much support in unnecessary areas.
On the other hand, if you have flat feet, you will find that these best running shoes for fallen arches specifically address the midfoot support issues you need. They correct overpronation, which improves your running technique and extends the life of your shoes since you won't wear them down due to your foot's strike.
Breathability
Like any good running shoe, breathable materials are essential. You don't want to go on a long run wearing something that has minimal 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 create issues with the feet. Proper breathability can reduce bacterial problems, making it critically important to keep the feet dry and ventilated.
Remember that breathability does not take away from the shoe's durability, at least not the ones on our list. When searching for the right pair of running trainers for flat feet, they must be breathable enough for you--but built to last as well.
While all of the shoes on our list have roomy toe boxes and are breathable, some have room for improvement. That being said, we think there's a pair of shoes on this list for any flat-footed runner.
Keep in mind that breathability does not take away from the durability of the shoe, at least not the ones on our list. When searching for the right pair of running trainers for flat feet it is really important that they are breathable enough for you--but make sure that they are also built to last. And, while all of the shoes on our list are designed to breathable, some are more breathable than others. If you need something that is moisture-wicking and sweat-resistant on top of really breathable then you will be happy to hear that almost every single one of the shoes on our list are just that--if you have flat feet AND sweaty feet then you know just how frustrating sweaty feet can be while your run.
Flexibility
With flat feet, you need to find the perfect balance between support and flexibility. Some of the shoes on our list are described as rigid, and some have a break-in period. To provide the support and stability that someone with flat feet needs, they need to use soft cushioning, midsoles, and other supportive features that address those issues.
However, this doesn't mean that these shoes are not flexible or that they don't adjust to your foot's needs. It just means they are a little more rigid to ensure your feet get the support and stability they need to keep you comfortable during all of your runs.
Durability
As fallen arches require more center support, they also need adequate shock absorption and protection from impact. The ideal choice would be a shoe that offers proper cushioning while still supporting the fallen arch of the footwell.
The outsole of the shoe is one of the most protective parts of the shoes. It helps protect your feet even further from the outdoor elements and the terrain you are running on. The outsole on a shoe made for runners with flat feet is often designed to be more flexible to allow for more range of motion. In fact, this is where most manufacturers can make the shoe more relaxed and get rid of the rigidity that many of them have to have to fit the needs of those of you with flat feet.
All You Need To Know About Running and Flat Feet
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The Best Running Shoes For Flat Feet
1. Brooks Adrenaline GTS 19
The newest version of the Brooks Adrenaline GTS comes with many new features that help flat foot runners, which has earned its spot on our list of the best running shoes for flat feet. On top of that, they're an excellent option for both men and women.
Read moreStability
While these shoes are not going to correct any significant issues, they do provide unique stability features. They utilize the BioMoGo DNA midsole to ensure that they mold to your feet so that they can deliver personalized stability when you wear them. This makes them the best Brooks for flat feet on the market.
Support
Thanks to their snug and secure fit, these running trainers for flat feet offer great support. They also use a DNA Loft crash pad to provide you with excellent heel support as well.
Breathability
The Brooks Adrenaline GTS 19 running shoes use an engineered mesh to ensure that they are breathable and keep your feet cool and dry when you are running in them. They are designed to wick away moisture and sweat to not weigh you down or cause any chafing or blisters.
Flexibility
While the midsole used in these running shoes for the flat foot is a little stiffer than previous models, they are still pretty flexible thanks to the flex grooves they utilize.
Durability
The outsoles on these flat feet running shoes provide you with additional traction capabilities and improve your grip to the ground while you run.
2. Brooks Transcend 6
Topping our list at number 2, Transcend 6 from Brooks provides all of the bells and whistles that you would ever want from a pair of trainers. It is packed with features that keep your feet cool and dry, locked in place, and keeps your arches supported.
Read moreStability
Brooks grades their line of products with an energizing system from 1 to 3. Level one is minimal energy, while level 3 is ultimate energy feedback. The Transcend 6 clocks in at level 3 to make you forget that you are running on a hard surface.
Support
Springy soles also prevent strain on your feet, especially your arches.
Breathability
As with any Brooks design, the materials are lightweight and designed to last for hundreds of miles without skipping a beat.
Flexibility
This design also boasts an internal guide rail system. You may not feel it at first, but the edges of the shoe actually work to guide your feet into a stride that does not add undue pressure to your arches, ankles, knees, and lower back. The DNA loft midsole also provides runners with a soft landing that feels like running on a cloud.
Durability
As with any advanced design in the Brooks line, it comes in at a pretty steep price point. However, these trainers are made to last a few hundred miles more than their competitors, which makes them well worth it at the higher price point. Plus, the added bells and whistles help to keep your feet healthy and happy as you train.
3. ASICS GT 2000 6
These are the best ASICS running shoes for flat feet, and they have once again hit the top three in our list of the best running shoes for flat feet. They are stylish, comfortable, and perfect for individuals suffering from fallen arches.
Read moreStability
These are perfect running shoes for flat feet because they will absolutely keep you comfortable and provide you with the stability and support you need. They have an adequate amount of cushioning and provide you with shock absorption during your runs.
Support
You will find that the exoskeletal heel clutching system will help improve support and overall comfort. The eyelets are also placed to disperse lace tension and create a customized fit.
Breathability
Their removable sock liner is moisture-wicking and breathable--and allows you to insert an insole or orthotic if you prefer. The new ComforDry anti-microbial will prevent bacteria from forming and help prevent odors from emerging.
Flexibility
They also utilize a PHF heel counter with memory foam to look the heel into its proper place and ensure a secure fit. They are flexible and lightweight as well.
Durability
The high-quality rubber is excellent, and reviewers said that the running sneakers for flat feet last for a very long time. They're more like road running shoes, not for the trail.
4. New Balance Vongo v2
The New Balance Vongo is a relatively new line, replacing the renowned 870 series. Heavier than the 870 series, with many of the Vongo's competitors at 11.6 oz, runners are pleased with the comfort of these shoes.
Read moreStability
New Balance finally introduced their Fresh Foam midsole to their running shoes. The result is an excellent balance between comfort and stability.
Support
The overall consensus among reviewers is that the Vongo is a really comfortable shoe. You would be hard-pressed to find a negative response to this new model.
Breathability
Other new features are the updated mesh upper that is breathable, a built-in bootie construction, and a sock-liner.
Flexibility
The rubber soles are not only very durable, but they are also flexible and allow for better grip and traction.
Durability
Reviews on quality and durability are all positive: the running sneakers for flat feet are comfortable, and they last. This overwhelming vote of confidence from the general public should be a great relief to prospective customers who suffer from issues that arise from their flat feet.
5. Asics Gel-Kayano 26
What makes this design stand out from the crowd is that it uses Impact Guidance System Technology. This means that the shape and cushioning in the midsole guide your foot for a more even takeoff.
Read moreStability
This design shifts push-off to the smaller toes to take the strain off your arches, contributing to an easy ride.
Support
What's great about the Gel-Kayano 26 is that it provides users with all of the support that they need to support their arches, but it is still slim and easy.
Breathability
The materials used in this design are super lightweight, which makes it perfect for HIIT training or even long-distance running.
Flexibility
FlyteFoam provides incredibly bounce and energy feedback with each and every stride. By utilizing the Asics Trusstic System, the entire sole is composed of super-lightweight materials that will not slow you down if you want to pick up the pace.
Durability
If you are in the market for something made from quality materials that come from a trusted brand, this is an excellent choice. Whether you are jogging for long distances or HIIT training, this option is lightweight and supportive. Plus, it comes in at a reasonable price point as well.
6. Nike Air Zoom Structure 22
This is an upgrade to the Nike Air Zoom Structure 21, which was previously on the list. One of the most significant changes we see is the move to fabric sole, which gives better support and is much more comfortable. One of the best Nike shoes for flat feet on the market!
Read moreStability
The top of your foot is supported by Flywire cables, which wraps the shoe to your foot, but not so much that it feels like you can't move.
Support
This flat feet running shoe model features Nike's Dynamic Support tech, which provides excellent support and allows for smooth and stable strides.
Breathability
You won't have to worry about the sweat and smell with these Nike running shoes. The specially engineered mesh provides ventilation that is targeted where you need it most.
Flexibility
This features Nike's patented Zoom Air unit, which is responsive and provides low-profile cushioning.
Durability
Nike is considered one of the best athletic shoe companies in the world for a reason. You can always count on high-quality products that perform and last! And these are indeed one of the best Nike running shoes for flat feet.
7. Brooks Beast 18
The Brooks Beast 18 running sneakers are here to replace the 16 models. The 18 has proven to be one of the top options for flat-foot runners and has allowed this model to continue holding a spot on our list. Yet another excellent option for both women and men.
Read moreStability
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.
Support
Brooks shoes come with an external heel that reinforces support in the rear of the foot and an extended progressive diagonal rollbar that guides your body in a natural motion.
Breathability
The upper in these running shoes for flat feet features a new, soft mesh material that allows air to freely flow through and keep your feet dry and cool.
Flexibility
These are an excellent choice for flat feet runners looking for something that is worn indoors and outdoors. The sole is made of rubber and provides excellent traction.
Durability
Reviewers believe the overall quality of the shoe is excellent. There are very few negative reviews about it. Some even say the rate has increased with using updated and contemporary materials. Durability is exceptional as well. However, a few reviews noted it wore down quickly in the toe area on the insole.
8. Saucony Guide 13
What makes the Guide 13 from Saucony an ideal shoe lies in its excellent lockdown. This design really hugs your foot without strangling it to offer excellent support throughout all points of your gait.
Read moreStability
What we also liked about this design is that it offers users excellent lockdown. The FORMFIT upper hugs the foot and contours to the shape over time for a perfect fit.
Support
There are slight differences between Guide 13 and previous iterations. Still, the most notable change is the addition of the PWRRUN cushioning system. This thick midsole boasts an 8 mm drop and lightweight cushioning for excellent energy feedback. This is a style that is perfect for long distances or HIIT training as well.
Flexibility
It also uses a guide rail system that promotes an even gait to reduce the strain on your feet, knees, and hips.
Durability
If you are in the market for something lightweight and easy, this is a great option. It provides an excellent lockdown that prevents your foot from moving around inside of your trainers. Plus, it comes in unique designs and color options to match your personal style.
On top of that, they're an excellent option for both men and women.
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