Buying running shoes when you have flat feet doesn’t have to be complicated. You want shoes that support you, whether jogging for fitness or training for a race.

First, figure out what kind of flat feet you have. If you have weak arches, you can strengthen them with arch support. You may only need a little arch support if your feet are flat.

About 25% of people have flat feet. If you’re one of them, look for shoes that support your running form and feel comfortable. It’s possible to find the right pair for you.

Best Running Shoes for Flat Feet

Overview

The New Balance 1080v13 differs from earlier 1080 models, featuring even more cushioning and bounce with its Fresh Foam X midsole. 

It fits most people well, and as usual for New Balance, there’s a wide version for those with wider feet. It also offers solid arch support, which is great for those with flat feet.

Don’t let the higher price tag deter you. The New Balance 1080v13 is a versatile shoe that can handle fast and slow paces, making it a reliable choice for various running styles. 

If you’re looking for a shoe that can keep up with your diverse running needs, the 1080v13 is a highly recommended option.

Overview

The Hoka Clifton 9 is the best and most versatile version of the Clifton series yet. 

It offers the same great neutral cushioning, now with added bounce and flexibility in the midsole and better durability in the outsole. 

The upper remains very comfortable and fits well, with a wide version available for those who need it.

Improved arch support is a bonus for people with flat feet, though some might find it a bit noticeable. 

This shoe is ideal for everyone, from beginners to experienced runners, and works well for jogging, easy runs, recovery runs, and long-distance runs.

Overview

Saucony claims the Triumph 21 is one of its top shoes for flat-footed runners. It’s an excellent option for heavier runners who need good cushioning without feeling too soft or unstable.

The Triumph 21 is a neutral, max-cushion trainer. Its midsole features Saucony’s Pwrrun+ foam, which is bouncy and durable. 

The upper is made from flat-knit mesh with padding around the ankle for added comfort. This shoe offers a secure fit around the heel and plenty of space in the toe box, providing a balanced ride. 

It has a lot of cushioning but remains firm and stable. Runners World testers also praised the midsole design.

Overview

The Nike Pegasus 41 features an updated upper for a better fit. 

Nike improved the internal midfoot band to suit different arch heights and added extra padding around the ankle collar for a more comfortable and secure fit at the back.

This shoe combines React foam and Zoom Air units in the midsole to absorb impact and add a spring to your step. It’s especially beneficial for flat-footed runners. 

The firm cushioning helps prevent excessive inward rolling on landing, and the wide sole design is accommodating, especially for a Nike shoe. It also comes in extra-wide sizes for those needing more space.

Overview

The Brooks Adrenaline GTS 23 isn’t specifically made for flat feet, but it’s a versatile shoe with a comfortable feel and mild support features.

The current design of the Brooks Adrenaline GTS 23 boasts a unique DNA Loft v2 midsole. Crafted from lightweight rubber-EVA foam, it offers a soft yet durable underfoot feel. 

This material’s resistance to packing down ensures it maintains its softness, even during high-mileage training.

The shoe also features Brooks’ GuideRails, which add firm, high-density foam to both sides of the midsole. This extra foam cradles your foot, keeping it aligned while you run.

Additionally, the Adrenaline GTS 23 is available in wide and extra-wide sizes, which is helpful for flat-footed runners.

Overview

The Asics Magic Speed 3 is a contemporary racing flat tailored for speed work, track sessions, and shorter races such as the 5k and 10k. 

It boasts two layers of FF Blast+ foam enveloping a full-length carbon plate. This setup delivers cushioning akin to the Novablast 3, enhancing responsiveness and stability thanks to the carbon plate.

The upper is highly breathable, similar to the Metaspeed series, and accommodates wide feet well. It’s comfortable for flat-footed runners and allows plenty of airflow. The outsole, also identical to the Metaspeed series, offers excellent traction.

Overall, the Magic Speed 3 feels comfortable on foot and performs best on tracks or surfaces where speed is key, and impact protection is less critical.

Overview

The Hoka Arahi 7 offers a streamlined approach to stability. This latest version introduces minor updates, including a new flat-knit upper and a plusher tongue compared to its predecessor. 

However, the core technology underfoot remains unchanged. The Arahi 7 features Hoka’s patented J-Frame technology, which utilizes a denser foam shaped like a ‘J.’ 

This foam runs from both sides of the heel up the medial (inner) side of the shoe, extending towards the ball of the foot.

Overview

The Mizuno Wave Rebellion Flash 2 is the training-oriented look-alike to Mizuno’s Wave Rebellion Pro racing shoe. 

Despite its somewhat pinched hourglass sole shape, which may not be ideal for flat feet, it offers a relatively wide fit for a speed-focused shoe and excels as a sprinter.

Beyond its distinctive design, the Wave Rebellion Flash 2 incorporates a potent blend of Enerzy and Enerzy Lite EVA-based foams, complemented by a glass fiber-infused nylon midsole plate. This plate isn’t just for aesthetics; it stabilizes your foot from landing to toe-off, maximizing cushioning and energy return.

The sole features a rocker-shaped curve at the heel and forefoot. These elements deliver a balanced ride with effective impact absorption, smooth transitions, and energetic responsiveness. 

For runners seeking speed, the Wave Rebellion Flash 2 is to enhance your performance. The Arahi 7 features Hoka’s patented J-Frame technology, which utilizes a denser foam shaped like a ‘J.’ 

This foam runs from both sides of the heel up the medial (inner) side of the shoe, extending towards the ball of the foot.

Conclusion

A pair of the right shoes can easily offer stability, arch support, and cushion to keep one comfortable and performing at their best. Brands like Brooks, ASICS, Saucony, and New Balance have crafted innovative designs with a view to overpronation and the unique needs of flat-foot runners.

When you get your next pair, look for models that offer motion control or structured cushioning and firm midfoot support. Models like Brooks Beast, ASICS Gel-Kayano, or Saucony Guide have been among the best models for years, reducing strains and allowing a more natural stride.

Again, pain-free running isn’t about the shoe – it’s about understanding your foot mechanics and finding the right fit. Appropriate shoes, strength training, and mobility exercises complement the best running experience.

Investing in good running shoes for flat feet is an investment in a long-term health outcome that will ensure each running mile is enjoyable with proficient running efficiency and at lowered risks for common problems involving plantar fasciitis or knee pain when correctly supported.