10 Best Flat Feet Running Shoes (Buyer's Guide)
Flat feet, also called fallen arches, is characterized by no arch, which means the entire sole of the feet touches the ground. Based on studies, this foot condition affects 20% to 30% of the general population. For adults, it is more common in women who are over 40 years old and people who are obese.
If you are a flat-footed runner, this buying guide will help you pick the right pair of running shoes for your condition.
Ranking of the 10 best flat feet running shoes
Based on 109,084 user ratings 374 expert reviews
- #1Brooks Adrenaline GTS 21
8 colors
92Superb!1000+ reviews - #2Brooks Transcend 7
4 colors
91Superb!1000+ reviews - #3New Balance Fresh Foam 860 v1190Superb!364 reviews
- #4Asics Gel Kayano 27
9 colors
91Superb!1000+ reviews - #5Asics GT 2000 9
5 colors
91Superb!937 reviews - #6Saucony Omni ISO 2
4 colors
91Superb!1000+ reviews - #7Salomon Sonic RA Max 2
4 colors
90Superb!280 reviews - #8On Cloudace
5 colors
90Superb!1000+ reviews - #9New Balance FuelCell Prism
6 colors
91Superb!257 reviews - #10Saucony Guide 13
6 colors
90Superb!1000+ reviews
Here is a list of all 357 flat feet running shoes, where you can sort by “best rated” and apply filters.
Top 5 most popular running shoes
Popular running shoes aren't the better rated ones
2 types of flat feet
There are two types of flat feet - flexible flat feet and rigid flat feet. We have simplified their differences to help you understand your condition better.
Flexible flat feet |
Rigid flat feet |
The arch is visible when there is no weight (ex. while sitting, on toes, or lying down); it disappears when weight is put on the legs |
Arch is not visible; remains flat in all positions |
Usually painless |
Causes pain during everyday activities |
Usually affects both feet |
Usually affects one or both feet |
3 mistakes to avoid when looking for running shoes for flat feet
Are there shoes designed for flat feet? Well, not exactly! There are running shoes designed for overpronators and most flat-footed runners overpronate. Thus, individuals with flat feet find comfort in using stability or motion control shoes.
If you want to buy the most comfortable running shoe for your flat feet, avoid these mistakes:
1. Not knowing the difference between stability and motion control running shoes
When it comes to flat feet, extra arch support is not always the answer. Having flexible or rigid flat feet will significantly affect your choices.
- For flexible flat feet, it is recommended to use stability running shoes because having extra arch support can put stress on the knees.
- For rigid flat feet, it is best to wear motion control running shoes as it helps in strengthening the muscle in the feet.
2. Forgetting that heel and toe support are also important
Flat-footed runners usually apply more force in the heel and toe areas; thus, they need to wear running shoes with added durability and support in those areas. Running shoes for flat feet are usually bulkier and thicker than normal running shoes because of these added features.
3. Not recognizing the importance of shoe last
When dealing with flat feet, arch support is not the only solution. You need to pay attention to the shoe's last or mold. The mold dictates the shape of the shoe and straight last will give flat-footed runners more freedom to move naturally and avoid pain. It is highly recommended to get a shoe with a straight last. Motion control running shoes are built on straight last while stability shoes are built on semi-curved or straight last.
Other important things to remember if you have flat feet
Replace your running shoes before they wear out
Do not wait for your running shoes to be completely worn out before you replace them. Some experts suggest that running shoes should be replaced every 300 to 500 miles, depending on your running style, weight, and the quality of the shoes itself.
If you have flat feet, pay attention to your shoe’s midsole. It provides shock absorption as well as the stability and motion control you need for your foot condition. Over time, the midsole will wear down and won’t provide the same level of comfort and support. If you already run a lot of miles and you notice pain during or after you run, then it’s time to buy a new pair.
Stretching is important
If you have flat feet, keep your arches strong and properly stretched. Make sure to stretch regularly every day for a few minutes and after your running activity.
For instructions and more flat feet exercises, read this article.
Do not ignore the pain
Running through pain will worsen the condition and increases the risk of serious injury. If you experience pain while running, get professional help. It is important to rest too.
The best flat feet running shoes in every category
- Best Brooks flat feet running shoe: Brooks Adrenaline GTS 21 (#19 overall)
- Best wide flat feet running shoe: Brooks Adrenaline GTS 21 (#19 overall)
- Best Asics flat feet running shoe: Asics Gel Kayano 27 (#41 overall)
- Best New Balance flat feet running shoe: New Balance FuelCell Prism (#80 overall)
- Best narrow flat feet running shoe: Brooks Adrenaline GTS 21 (#19 overall)
- Best red flat feet running shoe: Brooks Adrenaline GTS 21 (#19 overall)
- Best walking flat feet running shoe: Asics GT 2000 9 (#54 overall)
- Best severe overpronation flat feet running shoe: Hoka One One Gaviota 2 (#391 overall)
Other buying guides
Now, are you ready to buy flat feet running shoes?