Maximize Comfort And Support With The Best Running Shoes For Flat Feet (2024)

Hannah Singleton

Contributor

Opinions expressed by Forbes Contributors are their own.

Brooks Adrenaline GTS 23

Weight (per shoe):10.1 ounces |Cushion:Moderate |Heel-To-Toe Drop:12 millimeters

Brooks is known for their roster of versatile road running shoes that perform well from daily training runs to big races, and the Adrenaline GTS 23 is no exception. (There’s a reason why this model is on it’s 23rd iteration.) The Brooks Adrenaline is known as a motion control shoe “because the medial or instep of the shoe tends to be a little bit higher and a little more firm, thereby creating more support and structure for the foot,” explains Dr. Geller.

Unlike some ultra-firm motion control shoes, Brooks strikes a fine balance between cushion and support. The Adrenaline feels soft enough that you can wear it on high mileage days thanks to the DNA Loft v2 cushioning, which has been upgraded for this model to be a bit more plush and springy and a touch lighter than the GTS 22. But it still integrates patented GuideRails technology—two pieces of firm foam around the heel to keep your foot in a neutral position throughout your entire stride. For many flat-footed runners, the Brooks Adrenaline will provide that sweet spot of support.

Pros:

• Lightweight
• Excellent blend of support and cushioning
• Many color options

Cons:

• May not be firm enough for severe overpronation
• Ankle cuff may rub until you break the shoe in

Asics Gel-DS Trainer 26

Weight (per shoe):8.5 ounces |Cushion:Minimal |Heel-To-Toe Drop:8 millimeters

These pronation control shoes from Asics are some of the best value shoes you can buy, even if you don’t happen to find them on sale. According to Asics, this model proves beneficial for those suffering from injuries like shin splints, plantar fasciitis, bunions or heel spurs. The knit upper is soft and flexible, hugging your foot and moving with you, and the underside provides excellent shock absorption. “If you look at Asics, their Gel system works well for runners that are logging miles on concrete,” explains Dr. Geller. “That’s why a lot of people will gravitate to these shoes.” And, if you train at night, you’ll appreciate the reflective details that enhance your visibility in the dark. However, while they’re still widely available through Amazon and Asics, this model has been reitred, so get them while you can.

Pros:

• Very lightweight
• Grippy sole that’s perfect for speed work

Cons:

• Some reviewers have struggled with durability issues
• Narrow fit may not be suitable for all runners

Weight (per shoe):7.6 ounces |Cushion:Medium |Heel-To-Toe Drop:5 millimeters

You may not have heard of Diadora, but that doesn’t mean you should dismiss this Italian-based athletic shoe brand. Their Cellula model is ideal for flat feet without the added weight and structure that comes with traditional stability shoes. The lower drop height (5 millimeters compared to upwards of 10 millimeters from other shoes on this list) creates a more balanced ride as your heel isn’t elevated as high above your toes, so you can enjoy the plush midsole cushion without feeling like your ankles are going to cave in.

And at 7.6 ounces for a women’s size 7, it’s one of the lightest shoes on this list, which you feel as soon as you slip it on. But unlike other lightweight shoes, it has a wear-resistant coating on the sole that keeps the rubber from wearing down quickly with regular use. The one caveat is this is a neutral running shoe, so it won’t provide as much support as other shoes on this list, but it’s a great option for runners who want a classic shoe with a stable base.

Pros:

• Strikes a balance between plush and firm
• Great design and use of colors and shapes
• Lightweight design

Cons:

• Runs very small, be sure to size up
• Might not offer as much support as serious over pronators need due to lack of shanks or a medial post

Hoka Arahi 7

Weight (per shoe):8.1 ounces |Cushion:High |Heel-To-Toe Drop:5 millimeters

Maclean Wright, an avid runner in Salt Lake City who averages 1,200 miles a year on both roads and trails, has struggled to find comfortable shoes for his flat feet. Now, he swears by Hoka running shoes. For his road runs, he prefers the Arahi, a stability shoe, because of its lightweight design. “I used to roll my ankles all the time when I used more narrow performance sneakers, but the stability shoe is wider and therefore more stable,” he explains. This shoe also has a flat knit upper—an update from previous iterations—to achieve a secure fit around the mid-foot for a truly “locked in” feel.

While this shoe doesn’t provide as much structure as a motion control shoe, Hoka’s J-Frame technology offers mild support along the entire length of the shoe, making it versatile enough for a wide range of runners. But this model is more than a stability shoe: Wright also loves the wide toe box and comfy cushioned sole for his long runs.

Pros:

• Impossibly lightweight despite the sky-high cushioning
• J-Frame technology prevents overpronation without overcorrecting gait

Cons:

• Runs small
• Some runners won’t take to the thick cushioning

Weight (per shoe): 8.3 ounces | Cushion: Minimal | Heel-To-Toe Drop: 0 millimeters

We mentioned before that there is no right shoe for all runners with flat feet. While some prefer shoes packed with stability features or maximum cushioning, others prefer to keep it minimal because, in theory, a lack of support can strengthen the musculature of the foot (which can help with collapsed arches.)

With that in mind, the Xero HFS II is an ideal transition shoe for runners looking to start their barefoot journey. While many barefoot shoes sacrifice protection for a more natural experience, these sport a 5-millimeter rubber sole that guards against rocks and a 3.5-millimeter removable insole for extra padding. They’re also incredibly lightweight and breathable, making them perfect for runs in warm temps.

Keep in mind that research on barefoot shoes is limited and your personal preference may be dictated by your symptoms. If you regularly experience injuries or extreme overpronation when running in traditional shoes, you may want to consult a podiatrist before switching to barefoot shoes.

Pros:

• Lightweight, breathable no-shoe feel
• More durable than many barefoot shoes on the market
• Removable 3.5-millimeter insole lets you decide how “barefoot” you want to be

Cons:

• Less minimal than some barefoot shoes
• Polarizing design

Saucony Tempus

Weight (per shoe): 7.9 ounces | Cushion: High | Heel-To-Toe Drop: 8 millimeters

While many of the best speed-oriented running shoes offer neutral support,Saucony has packed some of the most impressive features of its high performance shoes (like the Endorphin Speed) into a stability shoe. On the speed side, it has springy PWRRUN PB foam for superior energy return and a FORMFIT design so you can achieve a perfect, snug fit. But it doesn’t skimp on stability in doing so. Along the medial side of the shoe, Saucony incorporated a stiffer piece of PWRRUN foam to serve as a frame which prevents your foot from leaning inward while you run. If you’re looking to push the pace while keeping your flat feet supported, this shoe is definitely down to get you moving.

Pros:

• Supportive foam along the medial edge
• Plush midsole foam creates a bounce in your step

Cons:

• Runs pretty wide
• Not as comfortable for slower paces

Mizuno Wave Inspire 18

Weight (per shoe): 10.6 ounces |Cushion:Moderate |Heel-To-Toe Drop:12 millimeters

Runners who experience extreme overpronation may appreciate the rigidity of the Mizuno Wave Inspire 18. A plastic wave plate in the midsole creates structure and provides a firm surface, while the heel counter (a design feature which reinforces the heel cup) is firm with moderate padding along the sides to prevent excessive movement. Not only is the midsole designed to enhance stability, but the snug upper and gusseted tongue fit like a glove, too.

One other unique feature of this shoe is the heel drop, which is the difference between the height of the heel and the toe. At 12 millimeters, it’s much larger than other shoes on this list, but the elevated heel reduces stress on the Achilles tendon, which can be beneficial for runners with mobility issues or lack of flexibility in the calf muscles.

Pros:

• Highly supportive for overpronators
• Pronounced drop may feel comfortable for those with tight calves

Cons:

• Very heavy
• Cushioning may be too firm for some runners

La Sportiva Ultra Raptor II

Weight (per shoe): 12.5 ounces | Cushion: Moderate | Heel-To-Toe Drop: 9 millimeters

When it comes to running trails, stability is even more important than it would be on paved roads—every step can spell trouble as you navigate roots, rocks and uneven ground. It’s easy to roll an ankle, even for runners that don’t have a tendency to overpronate, so it’s important to pair your foot with a highly stable and supportive offroad shoe like the La Sportiva Ultra Raptor II.

These technical trail runners are packed with features to help those in need of extra stability: The heel has extra fabric (TPU Transkinetic EVO) to stabilize the joint in place, and a shank runs between the insole and outsole to provide more rigidity than traditional trail runners. La Sportiva’s Frixion XF 2.0 X-Axis rubber provides plenty of grip about the outsole, as do 4.5-millimeter lugs, and a rock plate protects your feet against sharp objects underfoot. If you have wide feet, we suggest sizing up to ensure a proper fit—the relatively narrow toe box doesn’t support broader tootsies.

Pros:

• Rigid and trail-capable
• Heel cup is lined for enhanced stabilization
• Aggressive lugs on the bottom of the outsole perform well in all conditions

Cons:

• Runs narrow
• Overly technical for mellow trails

Altra Provision 7

Weight (per shoe): 8.2 ounces | Cushion: High | Heel-To-Toe Drop: 0 millimeters

Altra is known for its zero-drop, wide toe box shoes that allow your foot to splay with each step, thus promoting a more natural foot position. In fact, many of Altras’ products—the Provision 7 included—have received the American Podiatric Medical Association Seal of Acceptance because they encourage good foot health.

The Provision 7 comes equipped with Altra’s GuideRail technology, a form of support that reduces excess shin and heel rotation to keep your knee’s natural motion in a safe range, allowing you to run in comfort. Because the shoe is highly cushioned (which some runners will prefer over the rigid design of motion control shoes), they may be a great option if you have mild to moderate flat feet. And while the Provision 8 has since hit shelves, the seventh-generation of this shoe receives higher marks for comfort and support, and it’s still widely available.

Pros:

• Wide toe box promotes a natural gait
• Lightweight at eight ounces
• GuardRail technology keeps your leg in the proper position

Cons:

• The wide toe box and zero drop are polarizing features

New Balance Fresh Foam X 860v13

Weight (per pair): 8.6 ounces | Cushion: Medium | Heel-To-Toe Drop: 10 millimeters

New Balance Fresh Foam X cushioning is beloved among runners (the 1080v13 is one of the most popular neutral running shoes), and flat-footed runners can get in on the fun with the 860v13. With customizable width options and a soft mesh upper, this shoe is ultra comfy and ultra versatile. The medial post runs along the side of the shoe (you can see it on top of the midsole) to provide some much needed structure for overpronators, and there’s enough cushioning that it feels good on all your long runs, but not so much that it’s unstable at faster tempos.

But comfort isn’t all about cushioning: You need a shoe that regulates temperature well, too, and the breathable mesh upper on this model does just that. Plus, the padded tongue cradles the foot, and the spacious toe box eliminates any chance of blisters. We love this shoe because it will make most runners very happy on a daily basis—and flat-footed runners should get to enjoy a shoe just as much as anybody else.

Pros:

• Comes in four widths: Narrow, standard, wide, extra-wide
• Dreamy cushioning
• A supportive medial post to keep you on track

Cons:

• 10-millimeter drop can be too drastic for some