What Podiatrists Want You to Know Before Buying Running Shoes for Flat Feet

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Choosing the best running shoes takes some trial and error. Whether you’re a neutral runner or a pronator (a.k.a. your foot rolls in when you run), finding sneakers that’ll keep you comfortable through miles and miles requires lacing up and hitting the road for a test run.

But for those with flat feet, picking the right pair means following a few key rules for optimum support. Namely, you’ll need supportive shoes that help stabilize the feet.

Look for sneakers with a well-cushioned arch, a wide toe box, and a strong heel to help hold the foot in place, according to John G. Kennedy, M.D., chief of foot and ankle surgery at NYU Langone Health. “The materials in the shoe are extremely important for promoting good foot function and for dealing with the increased forces runners put on their feet,” he says.

Meet the experts: John G. Kennedy, M.D., chief of foot and ankle surgery at NYU Langone Health and Scott Spencer, D.P.M., associate professor at Kent State University College of Podiatric Medicine

As with most walking and running shoes, you won’t know exactly what works best for you until you try them on. So, to get you started on your search for the best running shoes for flat feet, we found some great options.

Our top picks

Ready to pick a pair and get moving? Try these top-rated running shoes for people with flat feet.

Adrenaline GTS 22

Designed with Brooks’ GuideRails technology, these running shoes are meant to keep runners from deviating from their natural stride, protecting the joints. So even though you’re feeling tired during those last few miles, these shoes will help keep your form strong. They’re perfect for people with flat feet because of their dense midsole cushioning that helps prevent pronation. In addition to the support, you’re getting plenty of bounce-back.

“These are by far the most comfortable shoes I’ve ever worn,” one Amazon reviewer raved. “I have very flat feet and these shoes are so comfortable, I didn’t need inserts. The foam sole is light and thick.”

Guide 16

The latest iteration of Saucony’s Guide sneaker is the best yet, according to many reviewers. With extra arch support, a well-fitting upper, and a springy sole, the Guide 16 is guaranteed to keep your feet feeling great even on the toughest runs. Its most notable update is its PWRRUN foam midsole, which makes the shoe’s supportive cushion even more comfortable.

“This is my second pair of these sneakers,” said one shopper who heard they were good for people with flat feet. “It feels like I'm walking on clouds honestly. Super light and super cushy.”

Altra Provision 7

Ideal for road running, these sneakers from Altra offer plenty of cushioning, the brand’s signature Altra EGO midsole foam and GuideRail technology for support. They have grid-like grooves on the midsole and an outsole that promotes natural movement. The model even received the American Podiatric Medical Association Seal of Acceptance.

“I have flat but small feet and often have trouble finding shoes that offer the arch support I need as well as stabilization,” explained a reviewer. “This really does it all, with a special emphasize on side-to-side mobility and ankle stabilization.”

Stinson ATR 6

The lightweight cushioning and stable design on these running shoes stand out from the crowd. Although the toe box is a little narrow, you’ll still get a roomy feel thanks to the space in the midsole and a breathable mesh upper. And if you’re taking your training to slick roads or light trails, you’ll also love this shoe for its lugs, which provide extra traction.

“I have literally tried and returned about a dozen pair of shoes,” wrote one reviewer with plantar fasciitis and bunions. “The Stinson ATR 6 has been a lifesaver for me. With my custom orthotics, the support in my arch is in exactly the right place.”

Gel-Kayano 28

Gel-Kayano 28 sneakers are designed to correct overpronation, which means they’re ideal for runners with flat feet. Their eye-catching design also softens impact and promotes stability, meaning long-distance runs won’t take as much of a toll on your legs.

“My podiatrist ALWAYS urges me to buy the Kayanos,” one Amazon reviewer wrote. “So squishy and lovely to walk in and stand on, from heal strike to roll through to push off.”

Cloud 5

With a waterproof upper and a moisture-wicking interior, these cult-favorite running shoes are ideal for all-weather exercise. But their true draw is their cushy, flexible outsole, which minimizes the feel of the road beneath you. Plus, the insole is removable.

“These are the best shoes I have ever put my feet in. Get them! Your feet will thank you. Fits every part of my foot perfectly.”

GT-2000 9

As a motion control shoe in the Asics lineup, this pair is made for flat feet. Like the brand’s other running shoes, these kicks feature their signature gel technology that offers supportive cushioning and ample rebound with every step, making each run feel lighter—but you still get a stable underfoot. In other words, if your feet tend to roll inward on the road, these shoes are there to protect your feet and legs.

“I am a runner that overpronates to the point it was causing severe bilateral heel pain,” one reviewer said. “Since purchasing Asics running shoes almost two years ago, my right heel pain has completely resolved, the left heel has almost totally resolved (the left was significantly worse). I run pain free now and will never wear another running shoe.”

Ride 15

These running shoes offer the structure and support you need, all with an ultra-comfortable fit. Saucony’s design also allows the shoe to adapt to the shape and motion of your feet, supporting your natural stride. Plus, these shoes offer superior bounce-back, so you feel an extra spring in your step, along with an upper construction that moves with your foot.

“I have relatively high arches, though they've fallen a bit over the years. The arch support for me is perfect, and I love how my whole foot seems cradled by the inside of the shoe. My feet are also on the narrow side, and these are perfectly snug,”

Air Zoom Pegasus 36

The stabilizing crash rails along the sides of these running shoes make them a great pick for people with flat feet. They also have EVA padding in the underfoot for a soft heel-to-toe landing, and flex grooves on the outsoles to provide traction and grip for rainy runs. Customers also love the responsiveness in these shoes.

“Great support for my flat feet, so comfortable!” one reviewer said.

Glycerin 20

Brooks makes it on this list for the second time with this version of the Glycerin running shoe. While these kicks have a supportive DNA loft midsole, what makes this pair stand out is the rigid material in the shank, which helps keep your foot in place while in motion. They also have medial posts to help with preventing pronation and promoting smoother transitions between strides.

“These are very comfortable shoes that I wear all day on my feet for work or working out in at the gym,” said one Zappos shopper. “I have a wider/flat foot, and it is roomy but not too big in the toe bed of the shoe. Lots of cushion, and very light weight.”

Wave Inspire 17

Each stride will feel smoother and faster with these lightweight Mizuno sneakers, thanks to the responsive molded foam insole and the stabilizing strobel board, a.k.a. the piece of fabric in the insole that’s connected to the upper.

“These really keeps my knees and plantar fasciitis from hurting during short runs and long walks,” one reviewer explained. “These are my everyday shoes.”

Fresh Foam X Vongo V5

For a pair of running shoes that have a breathable sock-like fit and support for overpronation, these kicks nail it. The perforated overlay and lace-up closure lend these shoes a seamless and flexible design, while the plush foam midsole helps stabilize your feet and prevents them from rolling. And if you prefer to use your own orthotics, the insoles are removable.

“These are incredibly comfy. By far my favorite pair of tennis shoes. Lots of cushion and support!! I workout in these all the time,” an Amazon reviewer said.

What does it mean to have flat feet?

If you have flat feet, it means your heel lies at an outward angle, the arches have collapsed, and the forefoot or toes rotate outward, says Kennedy. “This reduces the ability of the foot to absorb shock, either with a heel strike or a midfoot strike, resulting in an increased risk of injury.”

Flat feet can also cause instability of the foot bones, which then puts more stress on ligaments, tendons, and muscles, explains Scott Spencer, D.P.M., associate professor at Kent State University College of Podiatric Medicine. “These structures try to stabilize the foot, and as a result, they can get injured or damaged in the process,” he says. “One thing to keep in mind is that having flat feet isn’t necessarily bad. There are many people with flat feet that have no problems at all.”

If you have flat feet and experience discomfort, it might show up in the form of shin splints, pain in the posterior tibial tendon (a.k.a. the tendon behind the shin bone that supports the arch), Achilles tendonitis, plantar fasciitis, midfoot arthritis, or ankle and knee joint conditions, according to Kennedy and Spencer.

How to choose the best running shoes for flat feet

✔️ Look for a well-cushioned arch. A padded arch, support under the forefoot, and a strong heel can help hold the foot in place while you run or walk.

✔️ Consider a wide toe box. A wide toe box can be supportive, as most of the push-off comes from the big and second toe, Kennedy says.

✔️ Jog around in any potential shoes before you buy. A shoe or running store with experienced workers is your best bet for finding a shoe that really fits. (Pro tip: It’s best to try shoes on at the end of the day when your legs and feet are swollen.)

✔️ Add an orthotic insert. Kennedy says adding inserts to your running shoes can help keep your stride comfy.

✔️ Try stability shoes. Stability shoes, designed for those who overpronate, also help alleviate the risk of injuries or pain.

How we chose the best shoes for flat feet

We consulted John G. Kennedy, M.D., chief of foot and ankle surgery at NYU Langone Health and Scott Spencer, D.P.M., associate professor at Kent State University College of Podiatric Medicine, to find the best shoes for flat feet. We also combed through countless ratings, reviews, and product specs to find the sneakers you should wear for optimum support.

Why trust us

For more than 70 years, Prevention has been a leading provider of trustworthy health information, empowering readers with practical strategies to improve their physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Our editors interview medical experts to help guide our health-focused product selections. Additionally, Prevention also examines hundreds of reviews—and often conducts personal testing done by our staff—to help you make informed decisions.

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