7 Best Running Shoes for Flat Feet, Expert Tested and Reviewed

<p>This is a <a href=”https://www.esquire.com/lifestyle/health/a60846015/hoka-clifton-9-review/” target=”_blank”>running-shoe</a> story, not medical advice, and it’s nearly impossible to give you the right answer for your specific foot type. It matters when your arch collapses, how much it does, whether you overpronate, your foot strike type, and just the anatomy of your foot. These <a href=”https://www.esquire.com/style/g62930435/long-distance-running-shoes/” target=”_blank”>running shoes</a> have details that make them better fits for flat-footers (like a mid-range heel drop and <a href=”https://www.esquire.com/style/mens-fashion/g65082180/flip-flops-arch-support-men/” target=”_blank”>arch support</a>), but for anything hyper-specific, please seek non-Internet advice.</p><p>That said, these shoes are stabilizing and cushioned and have helped our in-house sneaker fiends with their own flat-feet runs. Get moving, flat feet and all.<br></p>” data-next-head/>

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Every product was carefully curated by an Esquire editor. We may earn a commission from these links. Here’s how we test products and why you should trust us.

Dick’s Sporting Goods

Best Running Shoe for Flat Feet with Roll Protection

Saucony Hurricane 24

Hurricane 24

Pros

  • Great cushion
  • Roll protection

Cons

  • Regular runs narrow, though there is a wide-fit option

These Saucony sneakers are extremely comfortable when you first put them on. There’s a ton of cushion (two foam layers) and a wider foot base that makes you feel like you can wear them all day long. They are also super stabilizing, with the brand’s built-in CenterPath tech that keeps your feet from overpronating.

Our testers liked this option for flat-footers specifically because of this. It supports feet and counters overpronation, which is one of the most common problems for people with this type of issue.

Best Daily Running Shoe for Flat Feet

Asics GT-2000 13

GT-2000 13

Pros

  • Lightweight
  • Stabilizing but with good rebound

Cons

  • Outsole not super grippy

Asics excels in designing shoes specifically for individuals with overpronation. With endorsements from medical professionals and approval by the American Podiatric Medical Association, these sneakers are a top choice. They are cushioned but don’t have a super-high stack height (which can make some runners feel unstable), with a nice, responsive rebound. They are lightweight and have a stabilizing internal design to prevent that overpronation. We also like how comfortable they feel on arches and heels.

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Best High-Heel-Drop Running Shoe for Flat Feet

Brooks Addiction GTS 15

Addiction GTS 15

Pros

  • Good for using with orthotics
  • Good arch support

Cons

  • A bit heavier

Forget what you thought you knew about stability shoes because these Brooks sneakers will provide you with a whole new experience. Built with the brand’s soft DNA Loft v3 cushioning, the Glycerin 21 sneakers are designed to give you an ultra-plush ride while still remaining firm. In our testing, we found that this option is particularly notable for flat-foot runners because of the wide sizing, which helps stabilize your foot and promotes smooth heel-to-toe transitions.

Weight 12.2oz
Heel Drop 12mm

Best Stable Running Shoe for Flat Feet

Hoka Gaviota 5

Gaviota 5

Pros

  • Super soft on achy feet
  • Plush collar

Cons

  • Heavier

We’ve tested and reviewed more Hoka sneakers than we can count, interviewed its product designers, and talked in depth about our favorite pairs for running. The Gaviota 5 sneakers are beloved by flat-footed runners of all kinds, with thick, soft foam and great stability. They are both stable and plush (a Hoka signature), and we particularly like how gentle they are on inflamed or otherwise irritated feet.

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Best Wide-Base Running Shoe for Flat Feet

Mizuno Wave Rider 29

Wave Rider 29

Pros

  • Great impact and shock absorption
  • Moderate cushioning

Cons

  • Cushion might be too moderate if actively in pain

If you like a running shoe that really spreads out the impact on each step, these Mizunos do this extraordinarily well. The combination of cushion and a wider underfoot gives a solid platform for dispersing impact. They have more moderate cushioning than some of the others, so they’re great for supporting flat feet that aren’t necessarily in pain right now. And for preventing that pain down the line.

Best No-Brainer Running Shoe for Flat Feet

New Balance Fresh Foam X 860v14

Fresh Foam X 860v14

Pros

  • A ton of width options
  • As good for standing as they are for running

Cons

  • Some find the heel too squishy

Anecdotally, I’ve been seeing more and more New Balance Fresh Foams on running feet around me. And I’m glad—the shoes are great. They feel comfortable on and have a responsive but soft foam midsole, with a stability plate that prevents overpronating. They come in a ton of inclusive width options, and they are sneakily a favorite shoe of mine to travel in.

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Most Breathable Running Shoe for Flat Feet

Puma Foreverrun Nitro

Foreverrun Nitro

Pros

  • Extremely lightweight upper
  • Great stability in the heel and midsole

Cons

  • Tongue feels a little cheap

Another running shoe making the rounds recently: Puma’s Foreverrun. These are, right out of the box, incredibly lightweight. The midsole cushion is comfortable on impact and is a bit wider for keeping strikes stable. There’s an asymmetrical heel counter and Puma’s Runguide guide rail that help keep your feet from rolling inward. And this is not flat-feet specific, but the upper knit is so lightweight it almost feels like there’s nothing there. Excellent for summer runs.

What to Look For in Running Shoes, According to Experts

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Material: Even though the material of the running shoe doesn’t directly affect issues arising from flat feet, opting for lightweight and breathable materials like knit, nylon, polyester, and mesh fabric will make your runs a whole lot more enjoyable. These types of materials are moisture wicking and super stretchy and will move with you during every stride.

Support and Stability: Arch support is crucial for flat feet, as it helps distribute pressure evenly across the foot, reducing strain on muscles and ligaments. It also enhances stability and alignment, preventing overpronation and reducing the risk of injuries. Proper arch support can alleviate pain and improve overall foot function during a run. And if you need additional support, you can always buy inserts to help.

Fit: Running shoes must have a snug fit with good arch support and ample room in the toe box. They should also have a secure heel lock to prevent slipping, and they should always be tried on with socks for accuracy.

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