23 best low arch running shoes

A pair of comfortable running shoes that provide adequate support and restrict improper movements can make all the difference for people with low arches. These types of shoes not only help improve the running experience but also alleviate potential injuries and serious problems in the long term. 

Low arch or flat feet

Individuals with low arches or flat feet, also known as fallen arches, have very flexible feet with arches that sit low to the ground. This condition makes the foot roll to the inner side when walking or standing. Low arch running shoes should be able to help with common foot problems that include arch and heel pain and plantar fasciitis. 

Two kinds of flat feet

• Anatomically Flat Feet - This foot condition is experienced by some people whose feet never actually develop arches. 
• Collapsed arches - This flat-foot condition is experienced by some people with low arches due to muscle weakness. 

Causes

The common causes of low arches or flat feet include genetics, torn tendons, nerve problems, dislocated bones, health conditions, aging, and weak arches. 

Potential problems

A flat foot when not given proper attention may lead to overpronation, heel spurs, bunions, plantar fasciitis, post-tibial tendonitis, medial knee problems, and other issues.

Treatment

Treatment may not be necessary for individuals with flat feet if they don’t feel any pain while walking, running, or doing strenuous activities. 

Here are some of the non-surgical treatments that a doctor may suggest for people who are suffering due to low arches. These treatments will help maintain a healthy, active lifestyle and prevent serious injuries.  

• Proper running shoes for low arches
• Foot orthotics
• Physical therapy
• Stretching exercises

Classifications of low arch running shoes

Having a flat foot is a big concern for many runners. It is because people who have this condition are not running efficiently. The running shoes below incorporates special features that are designed to support or correct low arches. 

Support shoes

Support shoes are the opposite of neutral running shoes, which are intended for runners with neutral gaits. Support running shoes offer a high level of cushioning that helps support low arches and alleviate pain while running. These shoes are technically designed to do what a normal arch is supposed to do. 

Stability shoes

Stability running shoes are designed for people who pronate past the neutral point. These types of shoes generally feature guide rails that help limit side-to-side movements. They offer the right balance of cushioning and motion control, encouraging for more natural running gait. 

Motion-control shoes

Motion control running shoes are explicitly created for severe pronators. These shoes offer a higher level of support compared to stability running shoes as they are designed to keep the ankle straight and limit excessive foot motions. 

Motion control running shoes feature a medial post in the sole that helps improve stability and correct pronation. 

Frequently asked questions

How can I tell if I have a low arch or flat foot?

Flat foot is easy to identify while walking or standing. When individuals with low arches stand, their inner foot flattens. 

Another easy way to determine flat feet is to follow these three steps. 1) Get your feet wet. 2) Stand on a piece of paper or a flat surface where your footprints will show. 3) Take a look at the prints. If complete footprints are seen on the surface, then you are likely to have a flat foot. 

Can flat feet runners wear neutral shoes?

As long as a flat-feet runner is not experiencing any pain while walking or running in a pair of neutral running shoes, there is probably no need for motion control, support, or stability running shoes. 

What brand offers the best running shoes for low arches?

Here are some of the well-known brands that offer quality men’s and women's running shoes for low arches.

• Brooks 

Brooks manufacture motion control running shoes that aim to stabilize the arch and guide the foot towards a more anatomically agreeable gait. 

Brooks also design stability running shoes that feature stability post and midfoot support. These features help encourage a more natural running gait. 

• New Balance 

New Balance is also a well-known brand for providing comfortable and supportive running shoes. Tons of New Balance running shoes feature stability posts and support systems. These elements help stabilize overpronated foot motion.

• Saucony

Stability running shoes from Saucony are specifically designed to help control pronation and provide adequate cushioning for enhanced energy return.

• Hoka One One

Hoka One One manufactures stability shoes that feature support-specific technologies, such as the active foot frame. Some of their shoes also use a straight last that makes the platform’s shape structured for stability.