The 06 Best Running Shoes For Flat Feet: What You Should Know

There’re already too many blockers to motivation when it comes to running – bad weather, expensive gear, lack of time or expensive gym memberships. Anyone who’s able to adhere to a regular running routine has harnessed some serious willpower. However, the worst de-motivator, the one that’s sure to put you out of your running routine, is flat feet. While flat feet can be a source of discomfort and affect your fitness routine, we have prepared a review of the top 06 best running shoes for flat feet.

The best running shoes for flat feet have individual features and structural profiles that enable normal running without pain. These shoes will not only keep your feet supported in the right position, but also offer excellent traction.


What Are Flat Feet?

Flat feet is a postural condition where the arches of your underfoot have “collapsed” and as a result, the foot lacks a normal arch when standing. Individuals with flat feet more or less notice that their entire foot surface is in contact with the ground whether they’re running or standing.

Flat-footedness in many instances occurs as a result of an individual’s body not being able to develop the arches naturally or when the feet muscles are too weak to maintain the arches. This postural condition makes it very challenging for individuals to walk in regular shoes due to pronation.


Why do Runners with Flat Feet Need This Kind of Shoe?

The cheapest, easiest and most effective way of treating flat foot problems is wearing the right footwear. This is an extremely important step forward for an individual with fallen arches. However, the question is; why do runners with flat feet need this kind of footwear? Here is what the experts have to say.

Stabilizing the Heel

When one has fallen arches or flat feet, it’s essential that there is not much roll or play in the heel area while running. This implies that the heel area of your shoe must be firm, stiff and relatively closer to the heel edges.


Good Arch Support

Arch support is crucial for people with flat feet, particularly if they engage in a regular exercise routine. It’s no surprise, then, that the arch support offered by these running shoes is an important benefit for a majority of avid exercisers.

While flat-footed athletes are likely to reap the greatest benefits from the arch stability present in running shoes for flat feet, individuals with high arches can also benefit from the appropriate support.


Proper Midsole Foot Cushioning

Medical experts have revealed that midsole (the region between the heel and ball of the foot) foot cushioning is one of the most important benefits of a good pair of running shoes. The proper foot cushioning provided by good footwear can minimize some of the stress placed on your heels, toes and ankles during a 1-mile walk.

As a result, the activity becomes safer and more comfortable. Better yet, good cushioning can aid in alleviating or preventing hip, back and knee pain since it improves the body mechanics.


Foot Motion Control

Individuals with flat feet, particularly those suffering from over pronation, require these kind of shoes as they aid in foot motion control. Most running shoes for flat feet are designed with a hard-material bump in the arc area that not only locks your foot in the right position but also gives extra support.

The motion control feature of running shoes for flat feet ensures you make a perfect stride so that when your foot lands on the ground, it is in the right position.


Helps with Injury Prevention

In most instances, running shoes for flat feet can aid in preventing certain types of body injuries. The American College of Sports Medicine advises that arch support and midsole cushioning mentioned above can mitigate overuse injuries, such as joint pain, stress fractures and tendonitis. Good running footwear also reduces the risks of scrapes and cuts associated with barefoot running.

A good pair of running shoes keeps your feet in alignment and absorbs the shock of running. Besides, appropriate footwear promotes body balance which in turn promotes better muscle movement and blood circulation. Now here some the important factors to consider when choosing a shoe for your flat feet.


Factors To Consider When Choosing A Shoe For Flat Feet

The last thing anyone wants is flat feet to be the excuse for poor body health. Besides, many people have jobs that require them to remain on their feet for several hours daily. It is for this reason that you must choose a shoe that’s designed for flat feet. Here are some crucial factors you need to consider:

Motion Control

With flat feet, the arches are not providing your feet with the support they require to prevent extra movement. This extra movement could mean that the ligaments or tendons in your feet stretch too much or the ankles slip out of place, which can result in greater pain especially when running for long distances.

It is for this reason that you need shoes with extra motion control to prevent the feet from slipping into such types of extra movements.


Stability Control

Stability helps your ankles and body at large to stay upright, which is essential when running for long distances. The best running shoes for flat feet will have a cushioning around the arches and ankles that aid in stability control. Better yet, stability control keeps the ankles in line, which helps prevent joint pain and keep the whole body in alignment.


Level of Arch Support

The pain experienced by individuals with flat feet is greatly contributed by inadequate support to compensate for the deformed foot arches. Arch support comes from both the profile of the footbed and insole, as well as the outsole.


Cushioning

Although walking has less impact to your feet that running, a well-cushioned shoe is equally important. Proper cushioning under the ball of the foot, heels and arches can result in comfortable running. Also, proper cushioning will support each of your running stance and prevent your feet from being sore the next day.


Type and Quality of the Material

A running shoe for flat feet is no frivolous purchase so you must get optimal value for your money. When buying a shoe for flat feet, be sure to confirm that the material used is durable and flexible. For a cushy feeling as you walk, look for shoes whose sole is packed with ethyl vinyl acetate (EVA) foam.

For a better shoe quality, you can go for a shoe that lends EVA with polyurethane foam for a perfect synergy of cushioning and stability.


Breathability

Another thing you want to consider on a good pair of running shoes for flat feet is the breathability. The simple fact of the matter is that your feet also need aeration and good air circulation to keep them cool and sweat free. Running in hot, sweaty feet can be a great source of discomfort to your already fallen arches.

For excellent breathability, look for shoes made with mesh on the outside. Such shoes are easy to identify since you’ll spot some small, thin holes on the outer material. It is through these holes that cool air circulates to keep your feet cool and sweat-free.


Top 6 Best Running Shoes for Flat Feet Reviews (Men and Women)

  • women
  • MEN

via Amazon

If you’re an enthusiastic runner who wants to be on top of your stride with the right balance of stability and cushioning, then the Adrenaline Gts 17 is what you need. Composed of a mesh material on the top and a rubber sole on the bottom, this shoe is the epitome of flexibility and breathability. Moreover, the interior’s fabric lining offers an excellent in-shoe feel for optimal comfort.

For a customizable and more secure fit, this shoe comes with an adjustable midfoot saddle that help lock your feet in position for proper motion control. This shoe also boasts a removable molded insole that offers light underfoot cushioning.


PROS

  • Excellent shock absorption
  • This shoe fits perfectly
  • Arc support is amazing
  • Very comfortable
  • Easy to slide in
  • Great stability

CONS

  • Not true to its size
  • Quite narrow at the top of the foot
  • Not a lot of cushion
  • women
  • MEN
Best Running Shoes For Flat Feet

via Amazon

If you’re in the quest to unlock the potential of every run even when suffering from flat feet, this shoe is the tool you need to take incredible strides forward. Offering a beautiful balance of cushioning fit and lightweight support, this shoe is excellent for high mileage running. From excellent shock resistance cushioning to reliable stability and a lightweight design, this shoe is a must-buy.

This shoe is the best combination of functionality and eye appeal all thanks to its attractive design which is inspired by the Japanese art. The synthetic sole also offers excellent stability irrespective of the surface you’re treading on.


PROS

  • Has an appealing design
  • Excellent for people with Plantar Fasciitis
  • Very comfy fit
  • Very attractive and eye appealing

CONS

  • The insole is too hard
  • Offer no cushioning and arch support
  • Very narrow shoes
  • Too heavy and too hot

  • women
  • MEN

For runners seeking a shoe that can withstand any condition and offers an excellent solid running experience, the Adrenaline Gts 15 is the shoe they need. Whether you’re on a hiking trail, road or athletics track, this shoe’s traction will cover you with no problems whatsoever.

This shoe cushion material features a DNA Midsole technology that offers excellent impact protection for the safest jogs.The shoe’s upper mesh material is extremely breathable to help wick away moisture, keep your feet cooler and drier during the hot summer days. Incorporated in its design are Omega Flex Grooves that permit for a more natural forefoot fluidity and movement.


PROS

  • Upper mesh keeps your feet cool and dry
  • Comes in appealing colors
  • Rubber outsole offers excellent protection and tractionVery durable
  • There is plenty of cushion
  • Comfortable for long runs

CONS

  • Shoes are a bit heavy
  • Complains of problems with sizing
  • Complains of defective shoes on purchase
  • The bottom is too hard
  • women
  • MEN

Do you want to own a shoe that’s among the most respectable names in running shoes? Well, the Saucony Men's Echelon Running Shoe is what you should have on your shoe rack. Since running on bumpy trails can be hazardous, this pair of footwear offers excellent cushioning for improved durability and impact protection.

This shoe also features a SAUC-FIT lacing system that offers excellent midfoot and arch area support.What’s even more exciting about this pair is that it’s wider and offers a more supportive fit to accommodate orthotics perfectly.

Besides, you don’t have to worry about running in the rain because this shoe has a run dry water-resistant outer lining that protects your feet from rainwater.


PROS

  • Water resistant outer lining
  • Insoles are nice and cushiony
  • The arches are good
  • Has a wide sole for great balance and stability
  • The shoes come in a nice color

CONS

  • Complains of the soles shredding and separating in less than a month
  • The shoe’s workmanship is lousy
  • The sizing is horrible
  • women
  • MEN
Best Running Shoes For Flat Feet

via Amazon

Unlike other shoes, the ASICS Men's Running Shoe features F.A.S.T. technology that’s designed to help increase your running speed. This lightweight piece of footwear does not interfere with the natural motion of your feet and offers excellent GEL cushioning for shock absorption in the heel area.

Moreover, this shoe boasts a two-density midsole with an asymmetrical design that helps support and cushion your feet as you walk.This shoe will allow your feet to freely supinate and pronate as you walk.

This shoe design incorporates a synthetic and mesh upper part and a rubber sole as a bonus to its FluidAxis technology that lets the shoe respond appropriately to side-to-side foot movements thus helping promote superior running comfort.

PROS

  • Lightweight
  • These shoes have decent stability
  • Excellent cushioning for a soft, pillow-like feel
  • Excellent for use with racing and speed work

CONS

  • Falls apart with little use
  • Complains of poor customer service from the company
  • They are flat and offer zero arch support
  • The outsole is poor quality
  • women
  • MEN
Best Running Shoes For Flat Feet

via Amazon

If you’re a dedicated runner who’s been rendered useless by flat feet, the New Balance Men's Neutral Running Shoe has come to your rescue. One reason to fall in love with this shoe is it’s beautiful yet simple design, just what you need to get going.

From excellent comfort to sufficient room, this running shoe ensures that your flat feet do not hinder your running.

Additionally, this shoe is designed with premium synthetic outer material, flexible rubber sole and a snug interior cushioning that gives your arch the support they need and for as long as you wish. With its overwhelming stability, this pair of footwear lets you run for miles without having to worry about injuries.


PROS

  • The styling is excellent
  • Very lightweight
  • Can be used on a hiking trail or treadmill
  • Well cushioned
  • Offer great value for your money

CONS

  • Shoes come apart with little wear
  • Complains that the shoe us undersized at the tie
  • The shoe material is of a low quality
  • One experiences an unbalanced feel while striding

Winner of the Roundup

Although all the shoes we reviewed had irresistibly impressive features, the overall winner of this roundup goes to the Brooks Adrenaline GTS 15. This piece of footwear is a user-friendly model that boasts of versatility as its best feature.

The shoe’s durable traction and underfoot tread, coupled with a versatile DNA midsole guarantee you the smoothest of all rides. Irrespective of your foot shape, the fit on this shoe is everything you need for a comfortable running experience.

The Brooks Adrenaline GTS 15 is a solid running shoe that offers an array of attributes to match your running needs as a flat-footed individual.

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