When choosing shoes for flat feet, comfort and support are key. Here are some recommendations and insights based on user experiences:
Popular Shoe Brands
Several brands consistently come up as favorites for individuals with flat feet. Brooks is highly recommended, particularly the Adrenaline GTS series, which is noted for its supportive design and wide toe box [2:1],
[4:7]. ASICS Gel-Kayano is another popular choice, praised for its cushioning and stability
[1:3],
[3:6]. Hoka shoes, such as the Clifton and Gaviota models, are also mentioned frequently for their support and comfort
[1:4],
[3:2].
Insoles and Orthotics
Custom insoles or orthotics can significantly enhance comfort for those with flat feet. While some users find them beneficial [1:5], others have had mixed experiences, indicating that custom solutions may not work for everyone
[1:7]. Visiting a podiatrist for personalized advice is often recommended
[1:3],
[4:3].
Alternative Options
For those seeking alternatives to traditional cushioned sneakers, barefoot or minimalist shoes like Vivobarefoot are suggested. These options aim to strengthen the feet over time [4:1],
[4:6]. However, transitioning to barefoot shoes should be done gradually to avoid injury.
Considerations for Specific Needs
Some users emphasize the importance of trying different shoes to find the best fit, as individual needs can vary greatly [3:3]. For those who require additional width, certain brands offer wider options, such as Brooks Beast and New Balance
[1:10],
[2:5].
Budget-Friendly Tips
If budget is a concern, it's advisable to allocate funds towards high-quality insoles first, then select shoes that complement these inserts [4:4]. Additionally, exploring sales and discounts on reputable brands can help manage costs while ensuring quality.
Overall, finding the right shoe for flat feet involves a combination of brand reputation, personal comfort, and sometimes custom orthotic solutions.
I need some help or some insight. I have super flat feet and they have caused me pain for many, many years. and over these years, I have gone through multiple shoes to find the right ones that work with my feet. so far, no luck.
I have tried Brooks, Hoka, Nike, Topos, Sketchers, Puma, New Balance, and currently have Hi-Tec. (the shoes that have hurt my feet are converse and vans which I wore in highschool.)
I read a reddit post that shoes with a 12mm drop are great for flat feet, which are the ones I have right now, but my feet are killing me. they hurt so much no matter how much I stretch or sit down.
I work 8 hours 5 days a week, my job is a lot of walking and slightly standing around all on wood floors. idk if that means anything but I need help finding good shoes. or people who are like me and have found The Shoe for themselves. im not sure if it is a shoe I need, or inserts/insoles i need. shoes with wide toe boxes or shoes with high drops are more appreciated. please help me!!
Everyone is saying insoles. I personally think insoles are a waste of money and make my feet hurt. Start walking barefoot whenever you’re not working and for work I recommend crocs (if your work allows it) I’m ridiculously flat footed with both feet and crocs are the only shoes that give me any comfort. I work in healthcare and have been using the same pair of crocs for 2 years now.
I have the same experience with insoles. Just end up with a bruise where my arch should be
Thanks. I just had custom orthotics made. I HATE them. I thought it was me.
You really need custom insoles, go see a podiatrist.
In the meanwhile, get the Asics Gel-Kayano, you could try the Brooks Adrenaline too, or Brooks Beast (Arial for women)
Yes, high drop shoes (12mm) work more the knees and less the feet and calves, but they will shorten the calves. Better? No, both low drops/high drops have their pros and cons.
Continue stretching calves and toes against wall (will stretch fascia)
thank you! I will look into the asics. I really need a wide toe box shoe, which is why I had the Topos. they felt better but I do believe I need custom insoles. I would just hate to spend 100$ on them and they still dont work. my hopes for a good insole are high though.
Flat feet with pain sucks... May god have mercy
Seconded. It’s not just about brands. It’s about knowing which type of shoe sold by those brands. Brooks Beast is considered wider “stability” shoe is it not?
I like the Hoka , very supportive. You need to get used to the shape of the insole at first. The Clifton are my go-to
My doctor sent me to a store called "Shoe Mill" to get some insoles, there were two types, I forgot what the box says but they are orange on the bottom. These combined with Sketches Extra wide shoes with no laces have reduced pain so much that I can stand for hours without my feet hurting.
I think the insoles were $65ish
ill look into Sketchers again, the ones I tried that have no laces always slip off my foot so easily.
If you search “bistro work clogs” or just closed toe crocs they’ll pop up. Very affordable too (45$ish) compared to hokas and the other shoe brands you named.
Hi. I feel your pain. I have fallen arches where my ankle joint is almost on the ground, plantar fasciitis and Morton’s neuroma. My job has me standing for hours, often on flat concrete and carrying weight. I have spent a fortune on shoes and inserts, and for me, my findings are this. Adidas, Nike and mainstream brands are useless on their own. Asics gel kayano are comfortable, but they only last a few months before the bounce is gone and offer no toe protection (if that’s important to you) Altra are hit and miss- great idea, but I can’t find a pair that doesn’t hurt after a day or so and as the toe box is atypical, can’t use orthotics in them. Birkenstock’s are comfortable and supportive, but I am on the half size so every pair I try rub somewhere on the foot. I am having success with Hoka. The Bondi ST is my go to- they are great but do look huge. The Gaviota are also lovely, and around the house the Ora slide is like stepping onto a cloud. I have had some luck putting superfeet green and grey felt insoles in other brands, but there hokas listed are good straight out the box. Side note, my Morton’s neuroma comes and goes with weight gain/loss. Stretching really helps too.
Hii! Does anyone have shoe recs for flat feet. I was thinking new balances but do you guys know any specific good ones? Also are shoe inserts good for flat feet? Did they help anyone?
I love my brooks they’re very deep so inserts/orthotics fit good in them
Any particular style of Brooks shoes? I’ve never worn them. I’m a teacher and am on my feet most of the day.
I second brooks! I currently wear the adrenaline gts 23 and use orthotics in them. I’m on my feet everyday for work averaging 10-20k steps. They’re supportive and have a wide toe box
Take a look at Hoka shoes
Oh yes actually I already have hokas! But I wanted new balances for school so I can wear them with things like sweatpants and jeans!
Anybody here have extremely flat feet and find a pair of shoes that work really well for them? I have put around 150 miles on my ASICS Nimbus 26 and occasionally get a tease of plantar fasciitis. I am also on the heavier side for a runner if that matters.
Thanks in advance.
I have very flat feets aswell, on the heavier side. And ankle is going abit inwards for me on one foot.
The best shoes I got recommended from specislist runner/shoes store was:
Trainers/most milage: Asics Gel Kayano 30.
Race day shoes/speedwork: Adidas Adizero Adios Pro 3.
I was previously recommended Saucony Triumph 20, but these felt very unstable for me and I got pain from these.
Daily/normal day shoes I use Hoka Gaviota 5 with orthopedics soles (custom made, not premade store-soles)
Everyday life is alright, can run 3-4 times a week, where 1 of those are more speedwork, and rest is more relaxed and/or longer (45-120min usually)
I was fitted for the kayano 30s too and ran my first marathon in them. Great shoe
if you like your nimbus you might like the ASICS Gel Kayanos. I have flat as a pancake feet and I love the Saucony Tempus (and like the Guide 17s and Hurricane 24s). If you can try a bunch at a running shop, it might be worth it.
Mine are pancake flat and I like the Endorphin speeds
Was just about to comment the same! Super flat feet and love my endorphin speeds
Mid-foot striking will eventually strengthen your feet and you will develop arches and stronger feet!
I have flat Flintstone feet and run in Saucony Endorphin Speeds and Triumphs.
I'm looking for Shoes that goes well with my flat feet, I have tried the Asics Gel Kayano 32 and my right foot was tilting to the right and I also tried the NB 1080 V14 and it was also tilting to the front? I'm no expert with shoes so I came here and hope to get answers from your experiences.
My budget is $300 and all help is appreciated!
Browse r/runningshoegeeks with the caveat that not all flat feet are the same.
Shoes for flat feet are not a thing. Shoes come in length and often width measurements. Full stop. No and then. If you are wanting a help with your flat feet, this is where your podiatrist or a foot store and custom insoles come into play.
So I'm going to get custom insoles for $200 so I'd have $100 left for shoes, what's a good shoe to use with custom insoles?
Well, in future, don't be vague as shoes means a lot of things to a lot of people. But making a wild ass guess, Clark's Bushacre II are natively hardy and are cheap, cheap. Get new laces on day one as they do suck all the ass in the room.
Barefoot shoes,start fixing your feet
Look at Brooks Adrenaline
Vivobarefoot motus flex. I have flat / wide feet (12 3E) and they’re a dream to wear. In the gym and just normally. I didn’t wanna wear my normal cushioned sneakers anymore after buying them.
The ones that make you feel like you're walking on marshmallows but without the sticky regret try Brooks, ASICS, or New Balance
Lems make excellent shoes for people with flat feet.
I have very flat feet, and Birkenstocks have been the only comfortable shoe for me. I currently only have sandals but will eventually purchase the Bend Low sneaker.
Does anyone know of a shoe brand or shoe that has similar footbed? Preferably sneakers and dress shoes for women.
As an FYI, I will be seeing a podiatrist later this fall.
Skechers arch fit shoes are very famous here.
I love my onitsuka tigre sneakers with an insole from Amazon. Hard to get sneakers but the only ones I found stylish and can walk in all day
What insole from amazon do you use?
PowerStep ProTech Control Full... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00DF6XEHC?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share
Vionic is good
I just ordered some from their site. They have a 60% off sale happening now!
cool! thanks for the heads up!
My wife has flat feet and she says that the only shoes they work for her are the New balance shoes that have the rollerball in it is that true is there no other shoe that could work .she has no arch
Any recs for the best shoes for flat footed runners?
agree with everything above - I have super flat, narrow & long feet and hoka rincon has been best for me so far. In my opinion, too much arch support makes my feet really sore because it forces them in an unnatural position. But definitely recommend getting fitted at a store!
The ones that feel best and don't cause you to have foot, ankle, shin, knee, or back pain when running, lol.
Seriously - there are hundreds of great running shoes out there, but the only way to know which one is going to work for YOU is to go try them on. Check for a local running store that has a good return policy - most here will give store credit up to 30 days no matter how many miles you put on "testing" them. Have them help you make the best pick in store, then go for some runs. You'll figure out pretty quick if it will work for you or not.
Then once you find a good shoe, you can comparison shop prices/colors/etc online because you'll know your brand/style/size.
But honestly what works best for one flat footed runner may be pure torture for another. Any of the big names - Asics, Brooks, Saucony, Hoka, New Balance and so on will work but each fit a little different and each has multiple styles that fit a little different.
Hit the running store to have them assess your feet for the right shoe, but for me it was more about the insert. I ended up using Superfeet inserts and have been pain free for thousands of miles now. My podiatrist also have them the vote of confidence (she is a runner too), and I have them in all my shoes.
^ seconding going to your local running store. Your feet will thank you.
I have flat feet and I went to road runner to get fitted and recommended shoes for my feet.
I suffer from foot pain due to my flat feet so I am looking for some good shoes. If anybody can give some recommendations, that would be great.
Can you add a pic to see, how severe they are? Do you overpronate as well? I would first suggest orthotics, preferably custom made ones. New balance or altras also might work, but it's better if you have supporting inserts.
Truefully I use altra running shoes without a insert and they have been my best experience even though I work in a warehouse 10hrs a day on my feet still not hurting
Altra running shoes
Check out BROOKS..!!
Yes, I have motion control Brooks for my flat feet and they are great! Definitely recommend looking for motion control shoes in any brand.
I have very flat feet . Under Armor seems best for me. I also have inserts I had made specifically for my feet that help greatly
Sketchers, any kind. With added gel insoles. Make sure the shoes fit properly with your insoles, take your insoles with you when you try the shoes on. New Balance are also good for flat feet.
I have flat narrow feet and the only shoe that does for me what you want is going to have ankle support. Flat feet mean pronation. Pronation tires the ankles.
I keep going back to the Redwing 953 boot. Consistently good since my first pair in 1986.
have you thought about insoles? those are more importnat than shoes imo. I've tried every brand of insoles on the market. Ultimately, I switched from my custom insoles to this brand called Fulton and nearly immediately my foot pain went away (and knee pain). These are made from cork so they mold to your arch and absorb shock/impact. a bit pricey but obviously way more affordable than custom, and really comfortable.
Birkenstocks!!!
These insoles are good and I wear a pair of their sandals as inside shoes because I can’t be bare foot.
Also, Brooks makes good stuff for flat feet. I have a pair for outside and inside.
https://www.brooksrunning.com/en_ca/womens/shoes/road-running-shoes/adrenaline-gts-24/120426.html
With flat feet, you need to be looking for maximum arch support and stability.
Hi. I have been recently diagnosed with flat foot and would like to get some recommendations on what different kind of shoes and slippers anyone can recommend for flat foot issue. It would be of a great help.
Do absolutely nothing. Go about your life. Ive lived with it from childhood and as a middle aged man I have gone from avoiding sports, using special footwear to using normal footwear, running 10k and leading a plenty active lifestyle. There are plenty of examples of normal people and athletes going about life normally with flat foot.
Yes but this is affecting my lifestyle a lot. I have severe acute ankle joint oain due to it and the doc has suggested to get special footwear for it.
In 2017 when being flat footed bothered me a lot, I found a company (I think Podiapro https://podiapro.in/) in Noida that made custom insoles. They measured my feet pronation and made a cast, sent it to their central office and got an insole made for my feet. Cut it to exact shoe I used to wear. I'd suggest you do something like that.
AND ALSO visit a physical therapist to learn some exercises to counter the pain. Check out bonniewilder on instagram for what your therapist might work on with you. Over time you will develop muscles that will prevent or reduce pain.
Do both.
The ankle pain could be doms for all that matter. Doms as in because of exertion more than normal which happens when one works out after a long time. Eat protein, walk or run, repeat.
For reference I got my feet checked in USA and the doc said mine were the flattest flat feet they had seen. I'm totally normal with no feet issues now.
Update: if your username is true then that's why your getting the pain.
It does affect a lot. If tou don’t wear correct footwear you could have so many issues like planter fasciitis, knee pain, back pain etc etc etc so ya
NO NO NO
It affects everyone differently.
hey! so did you found any shoes or insoles? i have flatest feet and the arch part hurt like hell... but i can't seem to find a good shoe. I have tried frido insolw but it has really low arch or foam
I had seen some product on shark tank india where they make custom shoes for this issue
I totally get you! flat feet can be such a pain! Here are some recommendations that have worked really well for people with similar issues:
For everyday shoes:
For slippers/house shoes:
Pro tip: Look for shoes with:
The most important thing is getting properly fitted though! Definitely recommend seeing a specialist who can assess your specific needs. Everyone's feet are different and what works for one person might not work for another.
Just fyi - I've started a company two years ago that are actually working on solving these exact fit issues. At IAMBIC, we are using AI Technology to create precision, custom-fit shoes. Been a huge help for people with specific foot needs like flat feet.
Hope my suggestions helped!
What are the best shoes for flat feet
Key Considerations for Shoes for Flat Feet:
Arch Support: Look for shoes that provide good arch support to help stabilize your foot and reduce overpronation.
Cushioning: Adequate cushioning is essential to absorb shock and provide comfort, especially if you spend long hours on your feet.
Stability Features: Shoes with a firm heel counter and a supportive midsole can help control foot motion and provide stability.
Fit and Comfort: Ensure the shoes fit well, with enough room in the toe box and a snug fit around the heel to prevent slipping.
Flexibility: A shoe that offers some flexibility in the forefoot can help with natural foot movement while still providing support.
Recommended Shoes:
ASICS Gel-Kayano: Known for its excellent arch support and cushioning, making it a great option for flat feet.
Brooks Adrenaline GTS: Offers a good balance of support and cushioning, ideal for runners and walkers with flat feet.
New Balance 860: Provides stability and comfort with a roomy toe box, perfect for those with wider feet.
Saucony Guide: Features a supportive structure and good cushioning, suitable for various activities.
Hoka One One Arahi: Known for its maximal cushioning and stability, making it a comfortable choice for flat-footed individuals.
Recommendation: When selecting shoes, consider trying them on later in the day when your feet are slightly swollen to ensure a proper fit. Additionally, if you have persistent pain or discomfort, consulting with a podiatrist for personalized recommendations may be beneficial.
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