The Best Walking Shoes for Flat Feet

Are you tired of the continuous pain you feel in your feet? Is running, walking, and even standing, often a painful experience?

Do you wish you could find a solution to be able to perform daily activities, pain-free?

A surprising 8% of American adults that are aged above 21 years have flat feet and although the condition isn’t serious, we get how disturbing it could be and we’ve got your back!

In this article, we’ve put together a list of the best walking shoes for flat feet out there to help you choose the right one for you.

What are Flat Feet?

If you take a moment to examine what a normal foot looks like, you’ll find that there’s a gap between the sole of the foot and the ground.

Our bodies are pretty remarkable; this gap acts as a spring to minimize the pressure on the foot caused by a simple step and to distribute our body’s weight across the feet and legs. 

The posterior tibial tendon runs all the from above the ankle to the arch of the foot, and it’s the main support to the foot’s natural arch. Once this tendon is damaged, the arch is no longer supported and the result is what we call “fallen arches”.

Flat Feet vs. Overpronation

Although flat feet and overpronation are very closely related, they aren’t the same thing. Flat feet has to do with the arch of the foot itself. With flat feet, the sole of the foot touches the ground because there is no arch.

On the other hand, overpronation is about the movement of the foot, rather than it’s physical shape. Pronation is rolling of the foot inwards during certain moved. This inward rolling of the foot causes the arch to lower to the ground.

Overpronation happens when that inward rolling is exaggerated. People with flat feet are likely to overpronate, but that’s not the general rule. People with normal feet may overpronate as well.

Treatments for both conditions are similar because they’re very closely related.

What Causes Flat Feet?

There are many reasons why someone could have a flat foot. It could be that a person is born with it or it could develop with age.

To start with, it could be due to genetic factors, where parents pass their genes on to their children.

Another reason could be damage to the posterior tibial tendon, as we mentioned earlier or other types of foot and ankle injuries.

Sometimes, a person may have a visible arch when they’re sitting down, yet it’s too weak to handle the pressure upon standing.

Flat feet are also common with obesity, diabetes, and pregnancy.

Age is also a contributing factor. Think of how much we use our feet daily. The posterior tibial tendon may weaken and cause flat feet as a result.

Why Buy Walking Shoes for Flat Feet?

Walking is an exercise that we all enjoy, and it’s also a vital part of being fit and staying healthy. Performing a walking exercise as short as 30 minutes a day can have significant positive effects on your body.

From better heart health, to burning calories, toning, and reducing stress levels, the benefits are countless.

Choosing the right shoes for your condition matters and can go a long way. Wearing regular shoes means you’ll probably be experiencing pain, or at the very least discomfort.

That’s why buying walking shoes specially designed for flat feet is key if you want to be consistent with your walking workout or feel comfortable during your daily commutes.

Things to Look for in Walking Shoes for Flat Feet

Whatever the reason is behind your flat foot condition, one of the best ways to help ease the pain and provide comfort is specially designed walking shoes.

Your typical shoes probably wouldn’t tick the box, so here are a few features you’ll need to consider before buying the best walking shoes for flat feet.

Support

People with flat feet are more likely to experience pain from the impact of bumpy and rough grounds. For that reason, you’ll need to make sure that your shoes have extra padding for easier walking.

The key difference between regular shoes and shoes that are designed for flat feet is the support they provide.

With regular shoes, you’ll notice that the bump in the midsection of the shoes is large, which may cause discomfort.

Flat feet shoes have smaller bumps which makes walking a lot more comfortable. You’ll need to make sure that the bump in the shoes fit your arch space.

Springy, soft padding that could take the same shape as your foot is also another thing to consider.

Another key element is healing support. A lot of people focus on the midsection of the foot and ignore heel support. It’s essential to choose walking shoes with a low heel that provides a firm grip on your heel, allowing it to remain aligned.

A heel that’s too high, could cause your foot to twist.

Width

A problem that people with normal feet don’t often experience is finding shoes that are wide enough in the toe area. People with no arch or a low one, tend to have their toes spread out wider.

This makes it necessary to find wider shoes. That doesn’t mean that you have to select a larger shoe size, however, many manufacturers provide shoes with a wider variation.

Breathability

To keep bad odors, fungal infection, and other skin issues at bay, it’s crucial to buy walking shoes that are breathable.

Breathable material allows for air circulation and makes it easier for the shoes to dry whether after washing or using them on rainy days.

Look for shoes with vents on the sides and breathable material on various parts, most importantly the upper section of it. 

Our Favorites and The Best Walking Shoes for Flat Feet

The good news is, more and more footwear manufacturers are designing shoes with flat foot conditions in mind.

Nowadays, there’s a vast variety to explore.

#1 Ryka Women’s Sky Walk Walking Shoe

For all the ladies with flat feet out there, if you’re looking for walking shoes that’s specially designed for you, this could be the one.

Ryka is a brand that manufactures shoes to accommodate the shape and build of a woman’s foot, and the skywalk walking shoes are a good fit for those with flat feet.

The highlight of the sky walk is the cushioned memory foam insoles that absorb the shock from rough grounds and reduces stress on the foot.

The shoes provide adequate arch support and are comfortable, making wearing them for longer periods of time a breeze. To accommodate a woman’s foot, the skywalk is narrower in the heels for more support.

The outer soles of the shoes are made from lightweight EVA, which is more flexible and lighter than traditional rubber.

The upper part of the shoes is made from breathable mesh, which allows for airflow.

The sky walk comes in 13 colors to choose from. It’s also available in a wide variety.

Reasons to Buy

• Lightweight outsoles
• Adequate midsole cushioning for flat feet
• Breathable

Reasons to Avoid

• Not the most durable
• The toe box is somewhat narrow

#2 New Balance Men’s Suede 928v3 Walking Shoes

New Balance has smoothly made its way into the sports footwear industry with its high-quality and durable shoes.

The 928v3 is designed with ABZORB midfoot cushioning which provides maximum arch support and comfort during long walks. It also helps absorb shock.

In the heels, the shoes feature a Roll Bar technology, which ensures that your foot doesn’t move in the wrong direction and avoid injury. This makes it an excellent option for those who tend to overpronate.

The shoes are made of leather, which may not be the most breathable, but they do tick the box in terms of durability.

The odor-resistant technology feature is an added bonus.

The New Balance 928v3 also has a wide toe box which makes it more comfortable for people with flat feet.

Although it doesn’t come in many color styles, it’s available in all basic colors. The New Balance 928v3 is also available for women.

Reasons to Buy

• Durable
• Excellent arch support
• Comfortable for long walks
• Roll Bar technology

Reasons to Avoid

• Small variety of colors
• Relatively pricey

#3 Brooks Men’s Addiction Walker Walking Shoes

If you’re looking for a pair of shoes that would be comfortable to wear while walking and standing, you might want to consider Brooks Men’s Addiction Walker.

These shoes are designed with BioMoGo cushioning in the midsection for extra comfort for those with flat feet and overpronation. The insole lifts the pressure off the foot and absorbs shock.

If you’re worried about foot rolling, the Brooks Men Addiction Walker could be a good fit because of its PDRB technology which provides pronation control.

The insoles have a mesh lining that allows air to circulate to avoid bad odors, sweat, and infections.

In terms of design, it isn’t very up to date like other brands, but it’s still decent looking. It also comes in 4 colors to choose from and it’s available for women in 3 colors. The anti-slip outer sole is a plus.

Reasons to Buy

• BioMoGo cushioning makes it very comfortable
• Breathable mesh for sufficient airflow
• Suitable for overpronation

Reasons to Avoid

• Design could be improved
• A little heavy
• Not the most durable

#4 Saucony Women’s ProGrid Integrity ST2 Walking Shoe

The Saucony ProGrid Integrity comes in a simple, yet stylish design for women with flat feet.

These shoes are quite snug for long walks. The PROGRID cushioning featured in the Saucony shoes makes it extremely comfortable, helps absorb shock from rough grounds, and reduces impact.

The Saucony also offers sufficient pronation control and helps avoid inward rolling of the heel and the foot.

The outer sole is made of rubber. Although rubber may not be as lightweight and flexible as EVA, it makes the shoes very durable.

The outer sole is also non-marking, so you won’t have to worry about leaving marks on polished surfaces, and it’s non-slip.

The ProGrid is made of full-grain leather, which contributes to its comfort and extends its lifespan. It also features breathable mesh which is important to keep your feet dry and odor-free.

The Saucony ProGrid comes in 3 variations, white/silver, black/grey, and stone.

Reasons to Buy

• High-quality material
• Affordable price
• Comfortable cushioning
• Heel support

Reasons to Avoid

• Not the most fashionable design
• Run narrow

#5 Brooks Adrenaline GTS 19

Last but not least, is the Brooks Adrenaline GTS 19. The Adrenaline is one of Brooks best-selling shoes, and for good reasons.

The Adrenaline GTS 19 features the BioMoGo cushioned insoles, just like the Addiction walker.

The cushions are placed in key areas, which makes these shoes supportive and comfortable to wear for extended periods of time.

The upper material of the adrenaline is light, engineered mesh that stretches to the shape of the foot, adding to the comfort of the shoes.

It also allows the shoes to dry up fast and makes it somewhat water-resistant. The soles of the shoes are made of rubber that allows for a firm grip on the surface.

The design has a stylish, sporty feel to it and it comes in a wide variety of colors. The

Adrenaline GTS 19 is available for men and women.

Reasons to Buy

• Comfortable cushioning and arch support for flat feet
• Stylish design
• Wide selection of colors
• Light, breathable material
• Available in a wide variation

Reasons to Avoid

• On the expensive end

The Final Verdict for The Best Walking Shoes for Flat Feet

Having flat feet doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy walking or working out. With the right shoes and the proper fit, you’ll be able to perform exercises and daily activities comfortably.

All the shoes on our list of the best walking shoes for flat feet are an excellent choice for flat feet, but we can’t help but fall in love with the Brooks Adrenaline GTS 19.

With its cushioned and removable insoles, stylish designs, and affordable price, it’s definitely a winner.

We also appreciate that it’s available for men and women.

If you prefer a more classic design, the New Balance Suede 928v3 is a superb alternative.