12 Best Walking Shoes for Flat Feet That Can Go Anywhere
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If you have ever experienced the pains that come with having flat feet, you’re not alone. Whether you’ve struggled with flat feet since childhood or a more recent injury has caused your condition, the results can be painful. Even short walks can become a struggle. Thankfully, the proper footwear can combat these pains and help create solutions to keep you active. The best walking shoes for flat feet provide comfort, support, and stability, and also prevent further damage.
Dr. Kim Lilley, head of research and development at FitFlop, explains that having flat feet simply means your arches have collapsed. “This tends to cause problems when the person’s weight bears as the natural impact-attenuating mechanisms are compromised,” she says. Symptoms range from foot and ankle pain, to knee, hip, and even back discomfort. “Alignment of the body is hugely affected by the position of the feet, and when alignment is compromised, pain and injuries can occur.” Since calibration is so important, the right design details to provide support while walking should be dissected.
Lilley’s number one problem-solver is good arch support to combat the discomfort. “A gradual and gentle increase in arch support will help with flat feet,” she says. “Ideally, you need to retrain the arch and the muscles of the feet to return to a natural level of support.” Through adequate arch support, footwear can help realign the ankles and angles of the lower limbs. Lilley also recommends choosing a more supportive closed-toe shoe, rather than open-toed styles, to really experience the beneficial results.
Ready to get shopping? Below, find the 12 best walking shoes for flat feet to keep you sturdy and stable for miles and miles.
Arahi 6 Sneakers
Constructed with stability in mind, Hoka's Arahi 6 sneakers are your everyday walking shoe with that little extra oomph. What's remarkable about this sneaker is its extra lightweight frame, despite having the maximal cushioning. Recognized by The American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA), these sneakers have the professional stamp of approval.
Size Range: 5-12 US
Colors: 13, including nimbus cloud/rose gold, black/black, strawberry black, +more
What customers are saying: "I normally never post reviews, but these shoes are so comfortable I have to!" one Zappos.com customer writes. "I walk a lot and will be walking a lot for my job this summer, which is why i got them, and they did not disappoint. If you are on the edge about it, get them! Feels like walking on clouds."
Arahi 6 Sneakers
hoka.com
$140.00
Neo-D-Hyker Leather-Suede-Rubber Sneakers
Whether you are exploring the great outdoors, or navigating the slick streets of a city in the cooler months, a functional hiker is your best bet. Built for trail and cross-country walking, FitFlop's unique technology makes this option ideal for flat footers, too.
"The neodynamic sneaker has a slightly higher arch as it is engineered for higher impact activities," Lilley explains. Not only do you get the arch support you need, but hey are also extremely stylish.
Size Range: 5-11 US
Colors: All black, perfect tan, black mix
What customers are saying: "I’m very pleased with the fit and quality of the shoe!" one Nordstrom.com customer reviews. "I’m a long time customer to Fitflop!! And always will be!"
Neo-D-Hyker Leather-Suede-Rubber Sneakers
fitflop.com
$153.00
WK400 Walking Shoes
Keen's walking sneaker was crafted with high-energy midsoles to enhance comfort and propel each step with forward momentum. This extra-high arch is great for those with flat feet who need more support in the midsole area than most.
Size Range: 5-12 US
Colors: Fawn/peach whip, triple black, Keen yellow/black, vapor/azure blue
What customers are saying: "I’ve been walking 3 miles a day for the last month in these shoes and they are extremely comfortable," one KeenFootwear.com customer writes. "I feel like I am walking on a cushion. It’s definitely weird at first, but I’m glad I kept using them. The 'cushion' is in the center of the shoe so it makes you feel like you roll a little, but you get good momentum. I have super flat feet and these shoes are supportive and do not hurt my arch."
WK400 Walking Shoes
rei.com
$160.00
Walker Sneakers
A perennial customer favorite, the Walker sneaker was made for walking. Designed with a removable molded EVA midsole with built-in.5" elevation, this sneaker creates for a smooth transition in the heel-to-toe strike zone. Cushioning, arch support, stability, and flexibility all will keep flat feet happy and able to walk for miles a day. This shoe is also APMA-approved, so you can find comfort in knowing its been well tested and researched.
Size Range: 5-13 US
Colors: Black, mist suede, stone, taupe, white/blue, white/pink
What customers are saying: "So comfy!" one VionicShoes.com reviewer says. "I have flat flat flat feet and these walkers have perfect arch and metatarsal support for me!"
Walker Sneakers
zappos.com
$109.95
GT-2160 Sneakers
A style that harks back to the 2010's, this sneaker has been in the Asics repertoire for awhile. The extremely comfortable gel inserts—a brand signature—work with flat feet and help combat overpronation. Not only are they a technically advanced shoe, they are also street style friendly as well, and can be worn for both athletic activity and casual walks to boot. For those with hard-to-find foot sizes, this unisex shoe has a full size range.
Size Range: 5-12 women's / 4-14 men's US
Colors: Oyster grey/carbon
What customers are saying: "LOVE these shoes. Fit true to size and are super comfy and stylish. Couldn't recommend more," one FootLocker.com reviewer writes.
GT-2160 Sneakers
shopbop.com
$120.00
Ariel GTS 23 Sneakers
Although Brooks is known for their running shoes, customers enjoy the Ariels for walking as well. Signature cushioning adapts to the wearer's individual stride and provides ample comfort and protection. The brand's GuideRails technology allows hips, knees, and joints to find their natural stride, rather than trying to fix your footstep. Flat foot customers particularly like the stability and cushioning this style provides.
Size Range: 6-13 US
Colors: Black/grey/white, grey/black/pink, nile blue/blue/bittersweet
What customers are saying: "Love my new Ariels!" a BrooksRunning.com customer proclaims. "I have flat feet that overpronate and since discovering this shoe two years ago, I’ll never go back."
Ariel GTS 23 Sneakers
zappos.com
$159.95
Fresh Foam Arishi v4 Running Shoes
A versatile style that was designed to go anywhere. New Balance's Fresh Foam Arishi v4 features foam cushioned midsole, a breathable mesh upper, and a durable rubber outsole, all which help with arch support and comfort for long days on your feet. Whether it is a walk around the block or a longer distance hike you have in mind, these will keep flat feet cushioned and protected. The under $100 price point is just the cherry on top.
Size Range: 5-12 US
Colors: Grey/white, black/white, white/orange/ivory, aqua blue, red
What customers are saying: "I'm a Personal Trainer and on my feet all day. I've tried so may shoes but halfway through the day my feet are killing me!" one NewBalance.com customer writes. "With the 880's arch support helps tremendously, extra cushion, helps the beating my feet take the total fit of the shoe kiss my foot so much comfort."
Fresh Foam Arishi v4 Running Shoes
dsw.com
$69.99
No-Tie Walking Shoes
Orthofeet's carefully constructed designs are made to alleviate pain caused by arthritis, overpronation, and flat feet. They also allow you to slip into an option that doesn't require lacing yet doesn't sacrifice support. Premium orthotic insoles with anatomical arch support provide a sturdy base, reducing pressure at the heel and ball of foot. The ergonomic qualities set the brand apart from the rest.
Size Range: 5-12 US in regular and wide
Colors: Blue, grey, rose, black, maroon
What customers are saying: "Light weight, looks good on my feet, comfortable. So much so I ordered another pair," one satisfied Amazon.com customer says. "I have flat feet and planter fasciitis, these shoes don’t make my feet feel tired after wearing them all day."
No-Tie Walking Shoes
amazon.com
$109.95
Integrity Walker 3 Walking Shoes
Another sneaker designed specifically for walking, the Integrity Walker 3 has a sleek and sporty look with the added bonus of actually good foot support. APMA-approved, these walkers feel light and springy thanks to the signature, durable outsole.
The rubber sole provides grip and traction too, for whatever your day has ahead. Premium full-grain leather makes this one last through the elements as well. With 4 different width sizes to ensure your perfect fit, it's a no-brainer practical purchase.
Size Range: 5-12 US in narrow, regular, wide, extra wide
Colors: White, grey, black
What customers are saying: "I'm on my third pair of Integrity Walker 3s, and I cannot rave enough about these shoes!" one ecstatic Saucony.com customer says. "I used to work at a clinic and was on my feet all day. My feet would be so sore at the end of each workday, until I found these shoes. They are super lightweight, supportive, and durable. They are also true to size. Would highly recommend these shoes to anyone!"
Integrity Walker 3 Walking Shoes
amazon.com
$67.50
Riley Silver Sneakers
If athletic and sporty styles are not your cup of tea, look to Frankie4 for a little inspiration. Developed by an Australian podiatrist, the brand combines fashion-forward silhouettes with the power of comfort. Wear the Riley for long walks exploring a new city or a long day of running weekend errands.
Size Range: 6-13 US
Colors: Silver, white tumbled, black tumbled
What customers are saying: "The perfect sneaker with loads of support and exuding subtle elegance with an edge. Simply sumptuous!" one review writes.
Riley Silver Sneakers
frankie4.com
$284.95
Jumpstart Walking Shoes
Rykä's premium walking sneaker doesn't have laces and is truly a style that will amp up your fitness routine. Stretchy-knit upper keeps this option extremely breathable and an ACTIVfoam EVA midsole provides soft cushioning, built-up specifically in the midfoot region, for plenty of arch and heel support and stability. The sleek, neutral color offerings will coordinate with everything from activewear sets to jeans and tees.
Size Range: 5-12 US in medium and wide
Colors: Black, beige, pink
What customers are saying: "Yes!! Finally! A comfortable and good looking walking shoe," one Nordstrom.com customer says. "I’ve spent a lot of money on Nike, Adidas, and New Balance walking shoes, and have been extremely disappointed with the results. Ryka has definitely met my expectations! The price is right, great fit and extremely comfortable!"
Jumpstart Walking Shoes
nordstrom.com
$44.99
Wool Runners
When the cooler temperatures hits, a regular webbed sneaker is not going to keep toes warm enough. Cue the Allbirds Wool Runners. Made from warm and cozy ZQ Merino wool, this everyday shoe is one you can actually wear. A cushioned midsole gives wearers all-day support, and helps arch support for those with flat feet. Bonus points: like all of Allbirds' shoes, these are sustainably-made using shoe laces made from recycled plastic bottles and a midsole made with sugarcane-based green EVA.
Size Range: 5-11 US
Colors: 10, including natural grey, dapple grey, natural white, natural black, +more
What customers are saying: "This was my first pair of wool runners and I couldn’t be more pleased," one customer writes. "Wore them as my everyday walking shoe for a 3-week camping trip, and they were incredibly comfortable all day long."
Wool Runners
allbirds.com
$98.00
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