Three of the best running shoes for flat feet

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Finding the right pair of running shoes can sometimes feel overwhelming, especially if you have flat feet.

It is worth checking out a variety of shoes before you make a decision on the pair you want to buy.

Many experts, such as podiatrists and physical therapists, hesitate to recommend a specific shoe since each person needs to be evaluated to figure out what is best for their particular feet.

Some brands have a better selection for flat feet.

We chose these shoes based on the criteria.

  • Expert opinions. We asked orthopedists and foot and ankle specialists about their recommendations for running shoes for flat feet.
  • Shoe quality and durability. A good pair of running shoes is an investment, which is why shoe quality and durability matter. We looked for shoes that are made to last.
  • Level of support and cushioning. We picked shoes with varying degrees of support and conditioning so that you can find what works best for you.
  • Customer reviews. We looked for shoes with mostly positive customer reviews.
  • Vetting. The shoes on our list have been vetted to ensure that they align with Healthline’s brand integrity standards and approach to well-being. You can read more about our vetting process.

The best running shoes for flat feet are listed here.

A note on price

“The general price ranges are indicated by dollar signs. One dollar sign means the product is affordable, whereas three dollar signs mean it’s more expensive.”

The prices range from $130 to $160, but this may vary depending on where you shop.

The pricing guide.

  • $ = under $130
  • $$ = $130–$150
  • $$$ = over $150

“We use the words men and women in this article, but that doesn’t mean you have to stick to one or the other. The product with the fit, style, and features that work best for you.”

Best lightweight

HOKA ONE ONE Arahi 6

  • Price: $$
  • Weight: men’s: 9.3 ounces (oz.) (263.7 grams), women’s: 7.6 oz. (215.5 grams)
  • Heel-to-toe drop: 5 mm

The Arahi 6 is a shoe that is lightweight and responsive.

The shoe has a more minimal design, but it still provides the Extra shock absorption. that runners need.

The Arahi 6 features HOKA’s J-Frame technology, which prevents your foot from excessively overpronating, or rolling inward as you land.

The Arahi 6 is lighter than the Arahi 5 and has more cushion in the tongue and a longer pull tab at the heels.

The shoe has a mesh upper that is Breathable and is available in a variety of colors, including a sweet corn color with orange and blue accents or classic black and white.

The Arahi 6 has received the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA) Seal of Acceptance, which means it has been found to help promote foot health.

Pros

  • Good midfoot stability.
  • It is very breathable.
  • The drop is low.

Cons

  • The previous versions had less arch support.
Shop for men’s shoes at HOKA Shop for women’s shoes at HOKA

Best for overpronation

Asics Gel-Kayano 28

  • Price: $$$
  • Weight: men’s: 10.9 oz. (309 grams), women’s: 9.1 oz. (258 grams)
  • Heel-to-toe drop: 10 mm

The Gel-Kayano 28 is the latest model of this popular shoe from Asics.

The DuoMax Support System may make this shoe an especially good fit if you overpronounce.

Using a firm sponge layer in the midsole, the DuoMax system helps your foot land in a more neutral position, protecting against overpronation.

The latest model of the shoe has FF Blast in the midsole for a more supportive ride.

The Gel- Kayano 28 is lighter than some other options on the list. It is available in several colors.

Pros

  • Support and maximum support.
  • helps controlpronation

Cons

  • The box is narrower than before.
  • Not available in large sizes.
Shop for men’s shoes at Amazon Shop for women’s shoes at Amazon

Best stability

Saucony Guide 15

  • Price: $$
  • Weight: men’s: 9.5 oz. (269.3 grams), women’s: 8.2 oz. (232.5 grams)
  • Heel-to-toe drop: 8 mm

People with flat feet or who need extra support for fluid gait mechanics can benefit from stability shoes.

The Saucony Guide strikes a great balance between comfort and stability. It’s no surprise that Rob Schwab, DPT, of Oxford Physical Therapy regularly recommends it to his patients with flat feet.

The Guide 15 has a streamlined construction that offers a lot of stability without the bulk that is common in stability shoes. The PWRRUN foam is softer than previous models and the sole uses less rubber but still has a good grip.

The Guide 15 is available in a wide range of colors, from neutrals to brights.

One thing to keep in mind is that the upper isn’t particularly It is very breathable., so the shoe isn’t ideal for hot training days.

Pros

  • It is soft yet stable.
  • snug fit.
  • The box is wide.

Cons

  • not very It is very breathable.
Shop for men’s shoes at Saucony Shop for women’s shoes at Saucony

Best cushioned

Brooks Glycerin GTS 19

  • Price: $$
  • Weight: men’s: 10.7 oz. (303.3 grams), women’s: 9.4 oz. (266.5 grams)
  • Heel-to-toe drop: 10 mm

The Glycerin GTS 19 has many of the same features that runners loved about the previous version, including top-tier stability technology and plenty of padding.

Dr. Nelya Lobkova, an American Board of Podiatric Medicine certified surgical podiatrist with Step Up Footcare, says the Transcend was a great option because of its midfoot stability and extra cushion.

Runners with flat feet benefit from the shock.

The Glycerin GTS 19 is also designed with Brooks GuideRails technology to help your foot stay in a natural stride and reduce your risk of injury.

The wide and medium width of the Glycerin GTS 19 can be used to fit a variety of foot sizes. It comes in a number of colors.

The shoe has been accepted by the APMA.

Pros

  • supports a natural stride
  • Extra shock absorption.
  • The maximum stability and cushion.

Cons

  • not very It is very breathable.
  • Less responsive than other shoes.
Shop for men’s shoes at Amazon Shop for women’s shoes at Amazon

Best for heel strikers

Mizuno Wave Inspire 18

  • Price: $$
  • Weight: men’s: 10.6 oz. (300.5 grams), women’s: 9.1 oz. (259 grams)
  • Heel-to-toe drop: 12 mm

The latest version of Mizuno’s popular Wave Inspire shoe series, the Inspire 18 has a thickly cushioned heel wedge, which can be helpful if you tend to strike the ground with your heel first while you run.

The shoe has a good amount of stability without being too stiff and it has energy foam that is great for road running.

The textured rubber tread can help increase traction on smooth surfaces.

The upper on the 18 is seamless and more It is very breathable. than in previous versions.

It comes in a variety of colors, from pastels to neutrals. The materials used in the midsole are renewable.

If you have a knee injury or experience knee pain when you run, you may want to consider a shoe that has a lower heel-to-toe drop, which will lead to more of a mid- to forefoot strike (1).

Pros

  • The midsole is soft.
  • responsive design
  • Good traction.

Cons

  • It may not be It was comfortable. for all runners.
Shop for men’s shoes at Mizuno Shop for women’s shoes at Mizuno

Best for orthotics

Brooks Dyad 11

  • Price: $$
  • Weight: men’s: 11.6 oz. (328.9 grams), women’s: 10.7 oz. (303.3 grams)
  • Heel-to-toe drop: 10 mm

The Brooks Dyad 11 is another top pick for flat-footed runners looking for a spacious shoe that provides a It was comfortable., stable ride without interfering with their natural stride.

The Dyad has a wide platform and dual archpods that make it ideal for running long distances on pavement.

What’s more, the shoe is There are available in wide, medium, and extra-wide lengths.. It easily accommodates inserts and orthotics for customized support, and it has earned the Seal of Acceptance from the APMA.

The shoe is too heavy for speedwork, so it is not a good choice for walking.

Some reviewers complain that the laces are too short, so you may want to add a longer pair of laces to your order.

Pros

  • The dual arch Pods add stability.
  • There are available in wide, medium, and extra-wide lengths.
  • It works well with inserts and other aids.

Cons

  • It may be too rigid for some.
  • There are limited color options.
  • “It’s not ideal for speedwork.”
Shop for men’s shoes at Brooks Shop for women’s shoes at Brooks

Best for trail running

Topo Ultraventure 2

  • Price: $$
  • Weight: men’s: 10.4 oz. (294.8 grams), women’s: 8.3 oz. (235.3 grams)
  • Heel-to-toe drop: 5 mm

The Topo Ultraventure 2 is a good option for trail runners with flat feet.

It has a platform that is very soft and a foam collar that is very soft to the ankle. The Vibram has added traction and durability.

The soft layer beneath your foot is what the midsole has, and it protects your feet. Even though you run on rough terrain, the external heel counter keeps your foot in place.

The shoe provides enough stability to help prevent overpronation, and the The box is wide. keeps your feet from feeling cramped and unIt was comfortable. during long runs.

The shoe can be worn with the gaiters to help keep the rocks and sticks away from the ankle.

Reviewers appreciate the roomy toe box and extra cushioning.

The Ultraventure 2 has been accepted by theAMPA.

Pros

  • The box is wide. with snug fit.
  • Vibram outsole and lugs for Good traction.
  • corded laces that stay tied

Cons

  • It is very breathable. porous upper that may allow mud to get inside the shoe
Shop for men’s shoes at Topo Shop for women’s shoes at Topo

Best budget

Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 38

  • Price: $
  • Weight: men’s: 10 oz. (283.5 grams), women’s: 8.2 oz. (232.5 grams)
  • Heel-to-toe drop: 10 mm

The Nike Air Zoom Pegasus is a good option for a good price. The Pegasus 38 is a model that uses a foam that provides a slight spring.

This model has a wider fit and a more snug fitting heel than previous versions, and it can handle both short and long runs.

The padding in the tongue makes it easier to tighten the laces without having to put too much pressure on the foot.

The men’s version of this shoe comes in both regular and extra-wide sizes, which can be helpful because some traditional running shoes may be too narrow for people with flatter feet.

The Nike shoes like the Pegasus 38 come in a lot of different colors and patterns.

Pros

  • It was comfortable.
  • Good value.
  • Solid grip.

Cons

  • The shoe weight and drop are not noted on the website.
  • extra cushioning in the tongue that isn’t as It is very breathable.
Shop for men’s shoes at Nike Shop for women’s shoes at Nike

Here is a quick look at how our top picks compare.

Price Weight Heel-to-toe drop Cushioning Support
HOKA Arahi 6 $$ Men’s: 9.3 oz. (263.7 g)

Women’s: 7.6 oz. (215.5 g)

 5 mm high stable
Asics Gel-Kayano 28 $$$ Men’s: 10.9 oz. (309 g)

Women’s: 9.1 oz. (258 g)

 10 mm max neutral/stable
Saucony Guide 15 $$ Men’s: 9.5 oz. (269.3 g)

Women’s: 8.2 oz. (232.5 g)

 8 mm moderate stable
Brooks Glycerin GTS 19 $$ Men’s: 10.7 oz. (303.3 g)

Women’s: 9.4 oz. (266.5 g)

 10 mm max stable
Mizuno Wave Inspire 18 $$ Men’s: 10.6 oz. (300.5 g)

Women’s: 9.1 oz. (259 g)

 12 mm moderate stable
Brooks Dyad 11 $$ Men’s: 11.6 oz. (328.9 g)

Women’s: 10.7 oz. (303.3 g)

 10 mm moderate neutral
Topo Ultraventure 2 $$ Men’s: 10.4 oz. (294.8 g)

Women’s: 8.3 oz. (235.3 g)

 5 mm high stable
Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 38 $ Men’s: 10 oz. (283.5 g)

Women’s: 8.2 oz. (232.5 g)

 10 mm moderate neutral

“The prices listed above are based on the manufacturer’s suggested retail price. The price may be different by the retailer.”

The weights are provided by the manufacturer and may be different by shoe size.

Gone are the days when you had only one or two choices for running shoes. Now, when you walk into a store or shop online, it’s not uncommon to be matched with several brands and styles to fit your particular needs.

We talked to experts to get their suggestions on how to choose a running shoe.

Categories of running shoes

According to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, there are three categories of running shoes:

  • Cushioned shoes. These are good for people who tend to supinate, or place more weight on the outside of each foot while running, or those who have high arches or rigid feet.
  • Stability shoes. These help people who tend to overpronate, or place more weight on the inside of each foot, or who have arches that might collapse.
  • Motion control shoes. These provide the most stability for people who severely overpronate or have flat feet.

Heel-to-toe drop

The drop is the difference in height between the toe of a running shoe and the heel.

The drop of a shoe greatly affects how your foot lands, with a high drop (more than 7 mm) encouraging a heel strike (1).

High drop shoes also provide extra arch support and stability, both of which are important for runners with flat feet (1).

If the shoes are designed to provide the support and stability you need, they are a good choice.

Comfort — the ultimate goal

The ultimate goal is comfort.

Dr. Steven Neufeld, a foot and ankle surgeon at The Centers for Advanced Orthopaedics, says comfort is really the most important factor when looking for a running shoe.

Neufeld says that when shopping for a running shoe, you need to consider your feet.

If you have flat feet that are stiff and rigid, look for a shoe that is softer and will provide adequate cushion when the foot strikes the ground, he says.

If you have flat feet that are flexible, then a shoe that is not super rigid is likely going to be the best option.

Neufeld also says to consider a shoe that’s designed to prevent overpronating, as it typically goes hand in hand with flat feet (2).

He recommends avoiding shoes with a narrow toe box and a floppy heel because of overpronation.

“A narrow toe box can cause a variety of problems, including numbness or tingling in the feet, and even Morton’s neuroma.”

Best practices when shopping for running shoes

There are a few suggestions for finding the perfect pair.

  • Get fitted at a specialty running store that has knowledgeable staff.
  • Try out the shoes before you buy them.
  • “Don’t try on shoes at the end of the day when your feet are swollen.”
  • “If the shoe doesn’t work out, ask about a return or guarantee policy.”

custom-made shoe inserts designed to help manage specific conditions

You can buy custom orthotics, which are made specifically for your issue, or off-the-shelf inserts, which are more generic but less expensive.

Whether a runner should use inserts or orthotics is a topic that is debated.

“The scientific data does not provide evidence for orthotics in patients without significant symptoms,” says Dr. Adam Bitterman, an orthopedic surgeon at Huntington Hospital who specializes in the foot and ankle.

He says that the role of orthotics is in scenarios of pain and discomfort with normal walking and moving around.

Bitterman likes to start with over-the-counter inserts, which are more affordable, and then progress to custom orthotics if the treatment shows success.

Are there any types of running shoes you should avoid because of your flat feet?

Yale Medicine foot and ankle specialist Dr. Sean Peden explains that minimalist shoes may not be a good option because they “provide no support” for your arches.

He says that shoes with a soft or flexible heel support are not suitable.

Can you run frequently with flat feet?

For those with flat feet, I advise running with activity rotation. One day running, next day rest or stretching, followed by another running day.

She also suggests a series of arch-strengthening exercises for people with flat feet, including towel gathers, ball pickups, and heel raises.

How often should you replace your running shoes?

Peden says that you should replace your shoes when the treads wear out.

He says there should be no mileage. Different runners put different stresses on their shoes. It should not be a set thing.

When the treads are beginning to wear through to a smooth surface, you need new shoes.

If you want to find a running shoe for flat feet, you should talk to a running shoe specialist, such as a physical therapist, or a podiatrist, and try on several styles.

We are confident that you will find the shoe that feels best on your feet by using this guide.