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Updated January 29th, 2024: This guide to the best shoes for flat feet was updated with improved shoe models and additional podiatrist insight on flat feet and what to look for when shopping for the best shoes for flat feet.
Table Of Contents
What Causes Flat Feet?
What to Look for in the Best Shoes for Flat Feet
How We Chose the Best Shoes for Flat Feet
Meet the Experts
Meet the Author
Top Shoes for Flat Feet 2024
Best Running Shoes for Flat Feet
New Balance Fresh Foam X 860 Shoes
Buy men’s at amazon$140
Best Men’s Dress Shoes for Flat Feet
Dr. Scholl’s Sync Up Oxford Ultimate Flex Oxford Shoes
Buy Now at amazon$59.99
Best Running Shoes for Overpronation
Adidas Solarglide 6 Running Shoes
Buy men’s at adidas$104
Best Women’s Dress Shoes for Flat Feet
Clarks Sarafyna Iris Black Leather Shoes
Buy Now at Amazon$108
Best Running Shoes for Wide Flat Feet
Brooks Adrenaline GTS 23 Shoes
Buy men’s at amazon$113.99
Best Hiking Shoes for Flat Feet
Hoka Gaviota 5 Shoes
Buy men’s at Zappos$175
Best Women’s Sandals for Flat Feet
Vionic Jamie Flatform Lug Sandal
Buy Now at amazon$130
Best Arch Support Shoes for Flat Feet
Asics GT-2000 11 Shoes
Buy men’s at amazon$89.95
Best Walking Shoes for Flat Feet and Overpronation
Nike Structure 25 Shoes
Buy men’s at nike$119.97
Best High Heels for Flat Feet
Naturalizer Joy Dress Sandals
Buy Now at Amazon$120
Best Men’s Orthopedic Shoes for Flat Feet
OrthoFeet Yari Hands-Free Shoes
Buy Now at Amazon$134.95
Best Gym Shoes for Flat Feet
On Cloud X 3 Shoes
Buy Men’s At Nordstrom$149.99
Best Women’s Flat Shoes for Flat Feet
Birdies The Vesper Shoes
Buy now at nordstrom$130
Best Shoes for Flat Feet for Standing All Day
Allbirds Tree Runners Shoes
Buy men’s at allbirds$98
Best Shoes for Flat Feet and Plantar Fasciitis
Sapogi Casual Sneakers
Buy men’s at sapogi$125
Everyone’s foot shape is different, but certain conditions that can be genetically inherited or caused by injury, like flat feet, can make you more prone to pain. That’s why shopping for the best shoes for flat feet is important, so that you can walk, run and go about your life comfortably.
“When standing, a typical arch — the inner portion of the foot — is slightly elevated, which aids in equally transferring body weight throughout the foot. Ligaments and tendons support this arch, preserving its structural integrity,” explainsDr. Miguel Cunha, DPM, podiatric surgery specialist and founder of Gotham Footcare in Manhattan. “On the other hand, in people with flat feet, the arch collapses and the entire foot comes into contact with the ground.”Flat feet, also called pes planus, “can occur due to genetic factors, age, or injury,” says London-based podiatrist Marion Yau, adding that the condition “can cause overpronation when walking and running.” This means that the foot rolls inward with each step. “Overpronation can lead to pain in the foot and leg due to the unnatural strain it places on the joints and muscles,” Yau notes.
Of course, it’s important to first determine whether you actually have flat feet. If you’re unsure what the condition actually entails, pedorthist Michael Fishkin of Northern Illinois Foot & Ankle Specialists gives us a simple explanation. “Flat feet are apparent when you get out of a pool and have no space under the foot where the arch should be, creating a pancake-style imprint on the ground.” No pool? No problem: Just wet the bottom of your foot and step on concrete or a paper towel — you’ll be able to see your foot’s imprint.
Watch on FN
Unfortunately, foot pain isn’t the only foot problem you can encounter if you have the collapsed arches congruent with flat feet. “People with flat feet are more likely to suffer from ankle and foot pain, as well as muscle fatigue,” Yau says. “In severe cases, flat feet can lead to the development of bunions and hammertoes.” They can also lead to developing calluses and plantar fasciitis, among other conditions. For these specific foot concerns, you want to make sure that your flat feet-friendly shoes also borrow features from the best shoes for bunions or the best shoes for plantar fasciitis for layers of support.
Thankfully, there are tons of shoes for flat feet out there that are suitable for any style preference or sport, and these can help prevent and manage all of the associated foot problems. To help you find the right shoes for you, we consulted experts and conducted in-depth research into the very best shoes for flat feet on the market right now. Shop the best options below.
Best Running Shoes for Flat Feet
New Balance Fresh Foam X 860 Shoes
Size range: Men’s 7 to 16 standard and wide; women’s 5 to 13 standard, wide and X-wide
Special features: Foam midsole for comfort, stability and cushioning
Materials: Fresh Foam X and mesh
Retailer availability: New Balance, Amazon, Running Warehouse, Zappos, and Dick’s Sporting Goods
Amazon Top-Quality Store Badge on Google:4.5/5 stars
Yau always recommends these cushioned running shoes to patients with flat feet, saying the foam midsole “provides cushioning and arch support.” The expert adds that this shoe “has an engineered mesh top that keeps the foot secure and provides support to the arch of the foot. The outsole also has a unique pattern that provides traction and stability.” Aside from great support for flat feet, we love that New Balance Fresh Foam X 860 Shoes are made using both recycled and bio-based materials to help reduce New Balance’s environmental impact.
What testers say: “I spent a lot of time researching what shoes would be best for me. I am a nurse (12 hour shifts), I have flat feet, wide feet, and plantar fasciitis. So good shoes are extremely important. I have worn inserts in my shoes since I was 12 years old. These are shaped perfectly, a perfect width and toe box size, have all the arch support, are stabilizing, and help with my heel pain as well. They last me through long shifts, and are very easily cleaned. 10/10 will be ordering again whenever I wear these ones out.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $140
Best Men’s Dress Shoes for Flat Feet
Dr. Scholl’s Sync Up Oxford Ultimate Flex Oxford Shoes
Size range: 8 to 13, medium and wide
Special features: Cushioning, arch support, and molded heel cup
Materials: Faux leather and plastic
Retailer availability: Amazon, Famous Footwear
Amazon Top-Quality Store Badge on Google:4.5/5 stars
Famous Footwear Top-Quality Store Badge on Google:4.4/5 stars
On Sale 37% off
Having flat feet doesn’t mean you’re confined to wearing only sneakers for the rest of your life: There are tons of comfortable men’s shoes on the market to support your foot shape while still looking elegant. These men’s oxfords from Dr. Scholl’s are engineered with a ton of flat foot-friendly features that make them extra comfortable, including a molded heel cup, arch support, and lightweight cushioning. They’re one of the best oxford shoes for men, and we love that they come in medium and wide sizes and in three colorways.
What testers say: “I have been wearing these shoes for a couple of weeks now and they are amazing. I have a flat foot and it can get really weary and tiresome when I wear normal shoes for a whole day. But I am not feeling that with these shoes. They seem to be doing a good job supporting whatever remains of my arch. I would certainly be exploring more of the products by Dr Scholl’s to see how I can get my leg better supported.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $59.99
Best Running Shoes for Overpronation
Adidas Solarglide 6 Running Shoes
Size range: Men’s 6.5 to 15; women’s 5 to 12
Special features: Boost midsole cushioning, Lep 2.0 technology, 10mm midsole drop, upper contains 50% recycled materials
Materials: Mesh, rubber
Retailer availability: Adidas
adidas Top-Quality Store Badge on Google:4.7/5 stars
On Sale 20% off
Designed with Adidas’ proprietary Boost cushioning for comfort and support, Solarglide 6 running shoes are ideal stability running shoes for flat-footed runners. adidas’ engineered Lep 2.0 technology provides optimal stability support to guide each stride and prevent overpronation. They feature a 10 mm midsole drop, which aids in ample arch support, along with a circular knit upper for soft security in your stance as you propel forward. As such, these Adidas running shoes feel super comfortable and are sure to help you feel confident during your run. Plus, they’re made from part recycled content.
What testers say: “Best overpronation shoes on the market.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $104
Best Women’s Dress Shoes for Flat Feet
Clarks Sarafyna Iris Black Leather Shoes
Size range: 5 to 11, medium and wide
Special features: Contour Comfort footbed, heel-toe drop
Materials: Leather
Retailer availability: Zappos, Amazon, Clarks
Zappos Top-Quality Store Badge on Google:4.8/5 stars
Amazon Top-Quality Store Badge on Google:4.5/5 stars
Thankfully, these days there are a ton of beautiful, comfortable women’s sneakers with flat feet who want to look stylish. But if you need a non-sneaker option, Clarks’ Sarafyna Iris Black Leather Shoes are a top pick for loafers for women; they feature a tortoiseshell chain across the upper for a stylish touch, and pair beautifully with jeans or a pantsuit. As for their functionality, these come in wide sizes — as many people with flat feet also need shoes for wide feet — and feature the Clarks’ Contour Comfort footbed, which helps to stabilize the arch, providing support and helping to avoid overpronation. Last but not least, opting for a slight heel like this one is always recommended for those with collapsed arches.
What testers say: “I have flat feet and had an unfortunate injury to my right foot and ankle. I have gone from an 8N to an 8W or 8WW. To further compound the problem, I still wear an 8N on my other foot. I have been tasked with rebuilding my shoe collection to fit my ‘new’ hard to fit feet. When these shoes arrived, #1 I was thrilled with the smell of this supple leather and #2 how stylish the faux tortoiseshell chain looked. I wasn’t able to try them on until later in the evening when my foot was swollen, but even so, they fit like a glove. My only critique is that the heel cap is a bit soft and if I hadn’t had a shoehorn, I might not have been able to get them on. Also, because of my foot, not Clarks’ sizing, I put the right shoe on my shoe stretcher overnight.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $85
Best Running Shoes for Wide Flat Feet
Brooks Adrenaline GTS 23 Shoes
Size range: Men’s 7 to 15, narrow, medium, wide, extra wide; women’s 5 to 13 narrow, medium, wide, extra wide
Special features: GuideRails technology, 100% DNA Loft cushioning, smooth transitions
Materials: Plastic, EVA foam, rubber
Retailer availability: Brooks, Amazon, Dick’s Sporting Goods, REI, and Fleet Feet
Amazon Top-Quality Store Badge on Google:4.5/5 stars
Brooks has positioned itself as one of the all-time best brands for running shoes designed to support various foot conditions, including the best shoes for wide feet and flat feet — and Yau is a seasoned fan. “The Adrenaline GTS offers maximum cushioning and support while the unique outsole pattern helps provide stability and traction,” she says. “The shoe is also lightweight and breathable, making it perfect for people with flat feet.” These are designed with GuideRails technology to prevent overpronation and support your feet, knees, and hips as you run, plus proprietary DNA LOFT cushioning for soft landings with every step. They also come in four widths to better accommodate every foot shape.
What testers say: “I have wide feet and plantar fasciitis and it’s hard to find good shoes that fit nice. I’m also in the military and we have to exercise 3 times a week. Thought I’d give these a try and man you can never go wrong with this brand! These shoes fit and feel great! These shoes are great for everyday wear, as well as exercise. I don’t think I’ll ever go back to the other brands. Brooks knows its customers and they build their shoes for comfort, quality, and activity.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $113.99
Best Hiking Shoes for Flat Feet
Hoka Gaviota 5 Shoes
Size range: Men’s 7 to 15, regular and wide; women’s 5 to 12, regular and wide
Special features: Breathable engineered mesh, compression-molded foam midsole, J-Frame midsole support, 5 mm heel-toe drop
Materials: Mesh, foam, and rubber
Retailer availability: Hoka, REI, Dick’s Sporting Goods, and Fleet Feet
Zappos Top-Quality Store Badge on Google:4.8/5 stars
If you have the wrong shoes for flat feet, hiking can be a painful experience. But with Hoka’s updated Gaviota 5 Shoes, it can be the pleasurable activity it’s supposed to be. Thetrail running shoes shoesare specially engineered to provide stability and prevent overpronation without overcorrecting, with a newly designed H-Frame midsole padded with ultra comfortable cushioning. These exceptional Hoka running shoes also come in regular and wide sizing, and feature a 5 mm heel-toe drop to better support your arches. Plus they’re accepted by the American Podiatric Medical Association, so you know you’re getting a high-performance product here. By the way, you can definitely wear these for running or walking around town, too.
What testers say: “After significant trial and error, Hoka’s are the only shoes I will wear. Perfect fit, perfect support, and my feet don’t feel worn out at the end of the day. It’s great knowing I don’t have to guess on my next shoe purchase, I know exactly where to go.
Price upon publish date of this article: $175
Best Women’s Sandals for Flat Feet
Vionic Jamie Flatform Lug Sandal
Size range: 5 to 11
Special features: Heel-toe drop, dual-density midsole, molded EVA footbed
Materials: Leather, rubber
Retailer availability: Vionic, Amazon, Famous Footwear, Dillard’s, QVC
Amazon Top-Quality Store Badge on Google:4.5/5 stars
Zappos Top-Quality Store Badge on Google:4.8/5 stars
Available in black or tan, these Vionic Jamie Flatform Lug shoes are the ultimate sandals for flat feet for all your summer outing needs. They support those with collapsed arches thanks to their slight heel-to-toe drop, as well as the dual-density midsole and molded EVA footbed, which provide amazing arch support, cushioning, stability and flexibility — all of which are primordial when shopping for shoes for flat feet or essential comfortable walking sandals that still bring style.
What testers say: “Comfortable, trendy, lighter weight than I thought but a solid show. Modern yet simple. Great arch support for my plantar fasciitis. Vionics are the best.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $130
Best Arch Support Shoes for Flat Feet
Asics GT-2000 11 Shoes
Size range: Men’s 6 to 17; women’s 5 to 12.5, narrow, regular, and wide
Special features: FF Blast cushioning, rearfoot gel technology, OrthoLite X-30 sockliner, and Litetruss technology
Materials: Mesh and rubber
Retailer availability: Asics, Amazon, and Dick’s Sporting Goods
Amazon Top-Quality Store Badge on Google:4.5/5 stars
On Sale 36% off
Asics’ GT-200 11 shoe “is designed specifically for people with flat feet, providing cushioning and arch support to help relieve pain and ensure maximum comfort,” says Yau, who also loves the outsole for the stability and traction it provides. The GT-2000 is engineered with a number of trademarked features that work together to ensure you get the support you need. For flat feet, the Litetruss technology improves stability and helps prevent overpronation, while the FF blast midsole provides added comfort, among other fantastic features.
What testers say: “These shoes are amazingly comfortable for walking and running. I have very low arches…like non-existent…and these are the most comfortable shoes I have found. I walk for hours on my treadmill while working and I never have pain in my feet, shins, or calves. These are awesome for outdoor running as well. Definitely worth the price and I plan to get another pair.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $89.95
Best Walking Shoes for Flat Feet and Overpronation
Nike Structure 25 Shoes
Size range: Men’s 6 to 15
Special features: Responsive cushioning, flexible sole, grooves for stability, 10 mm heel-toe drop, molded heel
Materials: Mesh and rubber
Retailer availability: Nike
Nike Top Quality Store Badge on Google:4.6/5 stars
On Sale 20% off
As aforementioned, flat feet and overpronation often go hand in hand. In order to prevent your foot from falling too far inwards while you’re walking, you need supportive shoes that are designed for those with foot shapes like yours —and Nike had overpronators in mind when making these Structure 25 sneakers. They’ve been improved with softer materials in the heel, collar, and tongue for a secure yet plush fit, and an updated foam underfoot doubles-down on lightweight support. Along with responsive cushioning, a flexible fit, and a molded heel to better support your foot, Nike’s increased the heel-toe drop for ample arch support.
What testers say: “Excellent and so comfortable! Love my new shoes!”
Price upon publish date of this article: $119.97
Best High Heels for Flat Feet
Naturalizer Joy Dress Sandals
Size range: 4 to 12, regular and wide
Special features: Contour+ technology, flexible outsole
Materials: Leather or suede
Retailer availability: Amazon, Nordstrom, Zappos
Amazon Top-Quality Store Badge on Google:4.5/5 stars
Nordstrom Top-Quality Store Badge on Google:4.8/5 stars
Zappos Top-Quality Store Badge on Google:4.8/5 stars
On Sale 8% off
There’s often a misconception that if you have flat feet, you can only wear functional-looking orthopedic women’s shoes, but this couldn’t be further from the truth. As long as the shoes you go for offer arch support, cushioning, and other supportive features, you can totally wear a pair of heeled sandals like these, for example. The Naturalizer Joy Dress Sandals come with Naturalizer’s Contour+ technology, which molds to the natural shape of your foot for comfort, and feature a wide block heel and square toe to accommodate your whole fit without pinching wide profiles or causing discomfort.
What testers say: “I wore these to a banquet and lasted over 5 hours nonstop in these. I don’t normally wear heels due to my flat feet and soreness after 20 minutes in a heel but these felt like I was walking on cotton! I bought the Gold color. Looking for the silver and red now. True to size fit!”
Price upon publish date of this article: $52
Best Men’s Orthopedic Shoes for Flat Feet
OrthoFeet Yari Hands-Free Shoes
Size range: 7 to 14 standard, wide, extra wide
Special features: Orthotic insoles, optional Arch Booster, wide toe box, padding, stretchable upper, and plenty of cushioning
Materials: Fabric
Retailer availability: OrthoFeet
Amazon Top-Quality Store Badge on Google:4.5/5 stars
On Sale 13% off
Orthopedic shoes are a fantastic solution for those who suffer from conditions associated with flat feet, especially if you’re walking or standing for long periods of time. These comfortable shoes for men and orthopedic shoes for women from OrthoFeet feature orthotic soles with removable arch support, which can help alleviate any pain you’re experiencing; a wide toe box to help accommodate the shape of your foot,especially if you have swelling or bunions for example; and a stretchable upper. They’re incredibly comfortable to walk in, and can help you deal with issues such as plantar fasciitis, hammertoes or knee pain, among many other things.
What testers say: “I have worn this shoe since the first day they arrived. They are now my daily shoe over my Skechers arch walk. They are the most comfortable shoe I’ve ever worn. I have plantar fasciitis along with flat feet and these shoes solve both problems. My posture has even improved while walking.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $134.95
Best Gym Shoes for Flat Feet
On Cloud X 3 Shoes
Size range: Men’s 7 to 14; women’s 5 to 11
Special features: 8 mm heel-toe drop, CloudTec cushioning, Speedboard technology
Materials: Recycled content
Retailer availability: On, Nordstrom, Fleet Feet, Zappos, Dick’s Sporting Goods, and Foot Locker
Nordstrom Top-Quality Store Badge on Google:4.8/5 stars
On only creates high-performing athletic shoes, and they do it extremely well in terms of ankle support and comfort. These On Cloud X 3 Shoes, which are designed as workout shoes for various types of exercise, are lightweight and made with CloudTec cushioning for arch support and ankle stability, helping to prevent overpronation as you move. That’s what the brand aims to do — help you to mobilize the right muscles so that your movements become more supportive to your overall physical health. Last but not least, these have an 8 mm heel-toe drop, which helps to further support fallen arches.
What testers say: “I love them, lightweight, perfect for weight training and cardio. I’m a 9.5 and they fit perfectly!”
Price upon publish date of this article: $139.99
Best Women’s Flat Shoes for Flat Feet
Birdies The Vesper Shoes
Size range: 5 to 12
Special features: 10 mm heel, seven-layer footbed
Materials: Suede or leather, rubber
Retailer availability: Birdies, Nordstrom
Nordstrom Top-Quality Store Badge on Google:4.8/5 stars
Birdies are specialists in creating comfortable women’s dress shoes and flats. These feature a 10 mm heel, a heel cookie, and what the brand calls “seven layers of cloud-like comfort” in the footbed, making them a great pair of arch support shoes for women with flat feet. Because the material is naturally stretchy and super comfy, these are perfect for those with collapsed arches who need a wider-fitting shoe. Also, their silhouette is so simple that they can be styled with pretty much any outfit you can think up.
What testers say: “I am obsessed with these. They are SO comfortable. I get a ton of compliments on them each time I wear them, and they are great for the office or home. I will for sure be purchasing in more colors!”
Price upon publish date of this article: $130
Best Shoes for Flat Feet for Standing All Day
Allbirds Tree Runners Shoes
Size range: Men’s 4.5 to 14; women’s 5 to 12.5
Special features: SweetFoam cushioned midsole, 15 mm heel-toe drop, and removable insole
Materials: Sugarcane, eucalyptus tree fiber, and recycled polyester
Retailer availability: Allbirds
Nurses, waitstaff and other professionals who need shoes for standing all day will thank their lucky stars for Allbirds’ Tree Runners. Available in a ton of stylish colorways to suit every preference, these sneakers are ideal shoes flat feet thanks to the cushioned midsole, which provides a great deal of arch support, plus the 15 mm heel-toe drop. You can also remove the insole to replace it with your own orthotics if you like, though many people find they don’t need to since the Allbirds are already so comfy. And another reason to love these? They’re made using sustainable materials and ethical practices for a healthier planet and happier communities.
What testers say: “I work on my feet for most of the day and have tried various different brands to find shoes that were comfortable and didn’t have my feet aching at the end of the day. Allbirds are my favorite! Really comfortable, and it’s great that you can wash them so easily too. A great price too, compared to the other options I’ve tried.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $98
Best Shoes for Flat Feet and Plantar Fasciitis
Sapogi Casual Sneakers
Size range: Men’s 4.5 to 14; women’s 5 to 12.5
Special features: Arch support, forefoot support, heel cup
Materials: Vegan leather, foam
Retailer availability: Sapogi
These Sapogi Casual Sneakers are another Yau-recommended pair of shoes for flat feet. Unfortunately, people with flat feet are prone to developing other common foot problems, and these are also specially designed walking shoes for plantar fasciitis — in fact, the brand is so sure that these will help alleviate heel pain that they only carry one style of shoe, which is available in a men’s and a women’s version. “I love Sapogi shoes,” says Yau. “They have a built-in insole that can support the arch, and a deep and wide toe box that can accommodate a larger forefoot area that’s usually associated with people with flat feet.” On top of that, these look every bit like a top pair of cool white sneakers for women and men, and can easily be styled with your everyday clothes.
What testers say: “I have a pair of the black ones and I wear them every day. After having plantar fasciitis for months, these are literally the only shoes that helped.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $125
What Causes Flat Feet?
There are many different reasons why you might find your feet are flatter than average. “As with many conditions of the foot, the cause can be genetic,” Tony Gavin, podiatrist and clinical director at Davenport House Clinic explains. “If your parents have flat feet, you can often inherit the condition, but some of us just never develop an arch.” Flat feet can also develop over normal wear and tear over a long period time, due to age, injury, or muscle strain, which weakens tendons that shape the arch, causing it to collapse. This can also introduce or increase pain, fatigue, and gait issues. “Injury which causes inflammation of the tendons in the foot can also cause the arch to collapse,” adds Maggie Trevillion, podiatrist and founder of Walk This Way Podiatry and Callen Olive footcare line.
Keep in mind that having flat feet doesn’t necessarily indicate an issue. “Flat feet are generally healthy, normal, and genetic,” says Trevillion. “They are only a problem if they are symptomatic, significant asymmetry is present, and/or they are causing issues more proximally, such as knee, hip or lower back pain.”
What to Look for in the Best Shoes for Flat Feet
Flat feet can lead to a number of conditions, so it’s important to wear the right shoes to help prevent these or alleviate any discomfort you might be dealing with already. These are the guidelines you should follow when shopping for the best shoes for flat feet.
- Arch support: Just as it is for those with high arches, proper arch support is highly important for those with flat feet. “The best shoes for flat feet offer good arch support, which stops your feet from pronating (rolling inwards) as you walk,” says Gavin. Dr. Cunha notes that “shoes with integrated arch support can lessen the pressure on the ligaments and tendons in the foot and help with the equal distribution of weight.”
- Cushioning: “Cushioning is necessary to reduce impact on the feet and lower limbs, and make walking comfortable, particularly for people with flat feet who might put more strain on their feet,” says Dr. Cunha. Yau adds, “Shoes with a deep heel cup and shock absorption are also helpful for providing additional cushioning and support.”
- Rigid shank and heel counter: With flat feet, you need a sole that will move with you, but it shouldn’t be too flimsy, as structure aids in stability. Dr. Cunha explains that the shank, a piece in the shoe’s midsole, “should be rigid to hold up and support the arch,” and the same goes for a rigid heel counter. “There should be a good bit of padding called an ankle collar, which is intended to cushion the ankle and the Achilles tendon, and support the heel,” he adds.
- Heel-toe drop: Completely flat shoes are typically not recommended for flat feet, since they don’t provide the necessary support. Instead, Gavin suggests looking for shoes with “a slight heel can have the effect of decreasing the amount of flattening of the arch during normal standing, walking, or activity.” Look to a substantial heel-to-toe drop that offers support over 7mm. Flats with arch support and a small heel are another option, along with orthotic insoles
- Wide-lasted shoes: Fishkin says that the shape of the shoe itself is very important when you have flat feet. “Wider-lasted shoes are the best option, which means they shouldn’t have an hourglass shape on the bottom,” Fishkin explains. “Instead, they should have a straight-across design underfoot.” Make sure to opt for wide-fitting shoe brands listed above, like Brooks, New Balance, or Naturalizer. “Most of the problems with our feet — particularly for women and runners — stem because our shoes don’t have a wide enough forefoot,” says Dr. Cunha. His trick? “Trace your foot onto a piece of paper at the end of the day when your feet are most swollen; then, place the shoe over the tracing of the foot. If the tracing of the foot is wider than the periphery of the shoe, your shoes are too narrow.”
How We Chose the Best Shoes for Flat Feet
For more than 75 years, Footwear News has been the shoe authority. Our coverage spans top industry news, retail trends, head-to-toe fashion, athletic and outdoor analysis, and more. Footwear News’ global network of editors has carefully curated all product selections featured using our expansive brand knowledge and thorough research to find quality, long-lasting items.
In order to select the best shoes for flat feet, we conducted extensive research into the products currently on the market, and sifted through reviews to make sure we only included high-quality shoes that are actually supportive to real people with flat feet. We spoke to expert podiatrists Marion Yau and Tony Gavin, and pedorthist Michael Fishkin to find out what those with flat feet need to know when buying walking shoes. Learn more about us here.
Meet the Experts
Marion Yau is an award-winning celebrity podiatrist based in London, UK. She practices at The Harley Street Foot and Nail Clinic, where she specializes in the use of hot and cold laser therapy to treat fungal nail infections. Yau creates educational content on social media as Miss Foot Fixer. You can find her on YouTube, Instagram, and TikTok.
Miguel Cunha, DPM, is a Podiatric Surgery Specialist and founder of Gotham Footcare in Manhattan. Cunha has years of experience as a foot and ankle surgeon, treating issues ranging from minor ailments to full-on reconstructive procedures.
Tony Gavin is a UK-based podiatrist, who is the clinical director at Davenport House Clinic, and founder of Osgo Healthcare, a buying group and support membership for private podiatrists.
Michael Fishkin is a pedorthist at Northern Illinois Foot & Ankle Specialists, who helps people dealing with foot, back or knee problems.
Maggie Trevillionis a podiatrist based in London and the founder ofWalk This Way Podiatry and the Callen Olive footcare line. She began her career in foot health working in the National Healthy Service, the Ministry of Defence, and through private practice. in 2012, she created the Walk This Way Podiatry center to specializes in podiatry and orthotics.
Meet the Author
Iris Goldsztajn is a freelance writer and editor based in London, UK. She is currently the morning editor at Marie Claire, and her writing has appeared in publications such as British Vogue, InStyle, Refinery29, Bustle, and many more. As a journalist, Iris covers a range of topics including fashion, beauty and wellness. She is originally from Paris, France, and has lived in Los Angeles and New York City.
Olivia Cigliano is a Commerce Writer & Producer at Footwear News and WWD where she writes shopping content on the best-rated footwear, TikTok style trends, and more. Olivia received her bachelor’s degree in journalism from Emerson College, and her byline can be found in publications including Elite Daily and CR Fashion Book. As someone with flat feet that are slightly wide, she loves wearing her Asics and New Balance shoes for exceptional comfort and support. She updated this guide to the best shoes for flat feet in January 2024 with updated shoe models and additional insight for what to look for as you shop.
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