The 14 Best Shoes for Flat Feet, According to Podiatrists
Explore the best podiatrist-recommended shoes to support and comfort flat feet, with tips on choosing the perfect pair for your needs.
The 14 Best Shoes for Flat Feet, According to Podiatrists (2024)
If you have flat feet, finding shoes that deliver all-day comfort and proper support can be a challenge. Without the right footwear, you may experience pain not only in your feet, but also in your ankles, knees, and back. Fortunately, there are many podiatrist-recommended shoes engineered to provide the stability, proper arch support, and cushioning you need for every activity and lifestyle.
Why Flat Feet Need Special Support
Flat feet—also called fallen arches—occur when the arches of the feet collapse, allowing the entire foot to come into contact with the ground. This can cause the foot to roll inward (overpronation) and increase the risk of aches, pain, and musculoskeletal imbalances.
- People with flat feet often benefit from stability and motion control shoes, designed to guard against overpronation.
- Proper shoes relieve stress on feet, ankles, knees, hips, and even the lower back.
- A good pair of shoes can help prevent injuries and provide all-day comfort, whether you’re walking, running, or standing.
How to Choose the Best Shoes for Flat Feet
Podiatrists recommend considering the following features when shopping for shoes tailored to flat feet:
- Stability and motion control: Seek shoes with a stable midsole and stability-enhancing elements. Motion control shoes are especially supportive due to built-in features like medial posts or guide rails, which reduce inward rolling of the foot.
- Higher heel-to-toe drop: Opt for shoes with a drop between 7–14 mm. This reduces inward heel movement and gives extra cushioning to the heel and plantar fascia.
- Cushioned midsole: Ample cushioning helps absorb shock and eases pressure, especially beneficial if you experience pain in your feet, knees, or hips.
- Roomy toe box: A wider, flexible toe area—often made from mesh—keeps your toes comfortable and accommodates changes in foot shape throughout the day.
- Correct fit: Select the width that suits your feet (available in narrow, wide, and extra wide sizes for many brands).
14 Podiatrist-Recommended Shoes for Flat Feet
Below is a curated list of the top shoes for flat feet in 2024, handpicked by podiatrists for their comfort, support, and stability.
1. Vionic Gemma Slippers
- Type: Slipper
- Features: Built-in orthotic support, plush construction
- Best for: Around the house, relieving foot pain at home
Vionic’s Gemma slippers boast a built-in orthotic footbed that helps support the arches and keeps feet properly aligned, making them ideal for lounging with comfort for those with flat feet.
2. FitFlop iQushion Flip Flops
- Type: Sandal/Flip-flop
- Features: Shock-absorbing, anatomically contoured footbed
- Best for: Casual wear, warm weather
For summer relief, FitFlop’s iQushion flip flops feature arch support far beyond standard sandals, with a comfortable footbed that absorbs every step for flat feet comfort even at the pool or beach.
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3. Brooks Adrenaline GTS 22
- Type: Running/walking shoe
- Features: GuideRails stability system, plush cushioning
- Best for: Exercise, daily wear
A favorite among podiatrists, Brooks’ Adrenaline GTS 22 delivers trusted stability for overpronators thanks to the GuideRails support system, plus soft, responsive cushioning for a comfortable stride.
4. New Balance 928v3
- Type: Walking shoe
- Features: Rollbar stability technology, cushioned foam midsole, available in many widths
- Best for: All-day walking, everyday wear
The New Balance 928v3 is praised for its motion control design, with Rollbar technology for reduced rear foot movement and a supportive, durable leather upper.
| Material | Weight | Heel-to-toe drop |
|---|---|---|
| Leather upper, foam midsole, rubber outsole | 10.9 oz | Not specified |
5. Asics Gel-Kayano 28
- Type: Running shoe
- Features: Designed for overpronation correction, breathable mesh, impact absorption
- Best for: Running, high-impact activity
The Asics Gel-Kayano is engineered with advanced stability features that help manage overpronation and cushion impact, making it a top choice for runners with flat feet.
| Weight | Heel-to-toe drop |
|---|---|
| 9.1 oz | 10 mm |
6. Hoka One One Arahi 7
- Type: Running shoe
- Features: APMA Seal of Acceptance, lightweight plush cushioning, stability-enhancing J-Frame technology
- Best for: Long-distance running, all-day wear
Hoka’s Arahi 7 offers plush cushioning and engineered stability in a lightweight design. Its J-Frame construction prevents overpronation and delivers support mile after mile.
| Weight | Heel-to-toe drop |
|---|---|
| 8.1 oz | 5 mm |
7. On Cloudnova
- Type: Athletic sneaker
- Features: Plush CloudTec cushioning, supportive fit, high 14 mm drop
- Best for: Gym, everyday training
On’s Cloudnova sneaker provides impact-absorbing comfort and a supportive inner sock and lace-up design, keeping flat feet stable throughout your workout or daily routine.
| Material | Weight | Heel-to-toe drop |
|---|---|---|
| Synthetic, textile upper, CloudTec sole | 8.6 oz | 14 mm |
8. Saucony Guide 15
- Type: Running shoe
- Features: Lightweight design, responsive cushioning, stability features
- Best for: Runners seeking mild overpronation correction
Saucony’s Guide line is a long-time favorite for runners with flat feet, with the Guide 15 offering a balanced blend of control and flexibility to keep you moving comfortably.
9. Hoka Gaviota 5
- Type: Walking shoe
- Features: Superior cushioning, extra wide fit, wide and stable base
- Best for: Wide feet, long walks, daily wear
The Gaviota 5 is ranked as the top walking shoe for flat and wide feet, thanks to its wide platform for firm footing and plush comfort for hours of wear.
10. Skechers Arch Fit 2.0
- Type: Walking sneaker
- Features: Amazing support for overpronation, cushioned arch, affordable
- Best for: Budget-friendly comfort, steady all-day walking
The Skechers Arch Fit 2.0 offers stable strides and cushioned comfort, making it excellent for those who need arch support without overspending. It’s less durable but perfect for low-impact conditions.
- Wide platform for better stability
- Great traction on various surfaces
- Padded, cozy interiors
11. Nike Air Zoom Structure
- Type: Running shoe
- Features: Responsive cushioning, stabilizing heel, engineered mesh
- Best for: Runners needing extra support
Nike’s Air Zoom Structure model is designed to stabilize flat feet during intensive workouts without sacrificing comfort or style.
12. Orthofeet Gramercy
- Type: Casual/dress shoe
- Features: Orthotic insole, extra depth, wide toe box
- Best for: Dress occasions, work, or everyday comfort
With a medical-grade orthotic insole and ergonomic design, Gramercy shoes from Orthofeet deliver therapeutic support suitable for hours on your feet.
13. OOFOS OOmg Low Shoe
- Type: Recovery/casual shoe
- Features: Impact-reducing foam, lightweight, machine washable
- Best for: Recovery days, post-workout, casual wear
OOFOS’s proprietary OOfoam absorbs 37% more impact than traditional foam, making each step gentle on flat feet and ideal for recovery.
14. Birkenstock Arizona Soft Footbed Sandals
- Type: Sandal
- Features: Supportive contoured cork footbed, adjustable straps
- Best for: Everyday summer comfort
With their signature contoured cork-latex footbed, Birkenstock sandals offer custom support and promote a natural walking motion for those with flat arches.
Key Buying Tips for Flat Feet
- Try on shoes later in the day (as feet swell).
- Bring your orthotics if you use custom insoles.
- Assess heel-to-toe drop and midsole firmness as recommended by a podiatrist.
- Check return policies to ensure you can exchange if the fit is off.
- Prioritize shoes with adjustable features (laces, straps) for a custom fit.
Frequently Asked Questions about Shoes for Flat Feet
What shoes do podiatrists recommend for flat feet?
Podiatrists most often recommend athletic shoes with motion control or stability features. Models from Brooks, New Balance, Asics, and Hoka often top the list for exercise, while brands like Vionic and Birkenstock are preferred for casual and dress wear.
Should I use custom orthotics with my shoes?
If your flat feet cause pain or your podiatrist has prescribed custom orthotics, choose shoes with removable insoles and enough depth. Orthotics can provide additional arch and heel support even in already supportive shoes.
Can the wrong shoes make flat feet worse?
Yes, unsupportive shoes (like soft sandals or fashion sneakers without stability features) can allow arches to collapse, leading to greater discomfort or even injury over time.
Do flat feet always require orthopedic shoes?
Not always. Many mainstream brands now offer shoes with excellent arch support and corrective features. Only in cases of severe pain or foot issues do you typically need prescription orthopedic footwear.
Are minimalist or barefoot shoes okay for flat feet?
Podiatrists generally do not recommend minimalist or barefoot-style shoes for adults with flat feet, as these lack the stability, support, and cushioning required to protect the arches and align the body.
Summary Table: Top Shoes for Flat Feet
| Shoe | Best For | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| Brooks Adrenaline GTS | Running/Walking | Stability, GuideRails, cushioning |
| New Balance 928v3 | Everyday walking | Rollbar tech, wide sizes |
| Hoka Arahi | Running, long days | APMA accepted, plush |
| Skechers Arch Fit 2.0 | Budget option | Cushioned arch, support |
| Birkenstock Arizona | Sandals | Contoured cork footbed |
Final Thoughts
With the right shoes, flat feet don’t have to mean daily discomfort or limited mobility. Focus on podiatrist-approved brands and models that offer stability, cushioning, and the support your feet need—whether you’re walking the halls of your workplace, running errands, or lacing up for your next workout.
References
- https://www.prevention.com/fitness/workout-clothes-gear/g60285489/best-walking-shoes-for-flat-feet/
- https://www.prevention.com/fitness/workout-clothes-gear/g26328202/best-running-shoes-for-flat-feet/
- https://runrepeat.com/guides/best-flat-feet-walking-shoes
- https://www.prevention.com/beauty/style/g20066372/best-shoes-for-flat-feet/
- https://www.prevention.com/fitness/workout-clothes-gear/a65958887/fit-flop-arch-support-fall-shoes-review/
- https://www.prevention.com/fitness/workout-clothes-gear/g46055643/best-walking-shoes-women/
- https://www.prevention.com/healthy-shoe-awards/
- https://treadlabs.com/blogs/insoles-reach-your-stride/insoles-for-flat-feet-support-the-arch-relieve-the-pain
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