Best Running Shoes for Flat Feet in 2023
We’ve reviewed 25+ running shoes and found the best running shoes for flat feet.
These running shoes range in price to fit a variety of budgets. And they differ slightly in the amount of cushioning, how much they weigh, and the amount of support they provide. But all of these shoes are great for runners with flat arches.
Shoes made for flat feet differ from a standard pair of running shoes by having extra support, especially near the arches, for added stability.
In most cases, if you have flat feet, you likely overpronate. This means your foot rolls inwards excessively during the gait cycle from heel to toe.
Over a period of time, this can potentially lead to ankle, knee, and hip problems if you are wearing the wrong shoes. The running shoes we’ve found are designed to limit the inward roll and bring the foot back to a more neutral gait.
If you’re not sure if you overpronate or have flat feet, check out our article about choosing the right pair of running shoes.
All of these running shoes are perfect for flat feet; however, personal preference will determine if you want a lightweight shoe, something with lots of cushioning, or a responsive shoe that lets you feel the road.
We recommend the Brooks Adrenaline GTS 23, as it has a GuideRails system to support the foot, a roomy forefoot for comfort, and is fairly lightweight for a stability shoe.
Here are the rest of our favorite running shoes for flat feet….
Top 3 Best and Favorites
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BEST OVERALL
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BEST OVERALL
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BROOKS ADRENALINE GTS 23
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Top Value
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Top Value
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Brooks Launch GTS 10
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Most Cushioned
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Most Cushioned
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Hoka Arahi 6
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Best Overall
1. Brooks Adrenaline GTS 23
The Brooks Adrenaline GTS 23 is ideal for almost any type of runner, but the subtle GuideRails support system makes it perfect for runners with flat feet.
What We Like
The GuideRails system in the Brooks Adrenaline GTS 23 is an excellent and unobtrusive way for flat-footed runners to maintain a neutral gait.
The GuideRails only come into play when needed, so they’re comfortable and hardly noticeable. They also offer support on both the medial and lateral sides of the foot.
A full-length DNA Loft cushion underfoot offers nice protection against shock. It’s less plush than the previous version but still comfortable. If you are used to the GTS 21, you may find it too firm.
To keep your feet cool, but also supported from the outside, the upper has been redesigned and is now more breathable and features light overlays for structure.
The outsole features a segmented crash pad which helps to make the heel-to-transition easier. However, the sole is also quite stiff to prevent twisting, which aids in the maintaining of a neutral gait.
Runners with any size foot should be able to find a great match as the shoe is available in multiple widths.
Why We Like It
The Adrenaline GTS 23 GuideRails offer the ideal support for flat feet and overpronation without being intrusive. This shoe is also available in multiple widths, allowing every runner to find their perfect fit.
What’s New
The Adrenaline GTS 23 is a touch lighter than the 21, which may be accounted for by the more balanced and less plush cushioning.
The midsole now consists of only DNA Loft foam and has done away with the BioMoGo that was found in the previous iteration.
For an aesthetic change, the Adrenaline 23 now includes some color, which the previous one did not.
PROS:
- GuideRails system caters for mild and moderate overpronators
- 3D Fit Print upper is breathable and provides structure
- Multiple widths allow you to find the perfect fit
- Stiff sole to prevent excess motion of the foot
CONS:
- Some may find the midsole to be too firm
Top Value
2. Brooks Launch GTS 10
The Brooks Launch GTS 10 is a budget-friendly shoe that offers excellent support for flat feet and like the Adrenaline features Brooks’ GuideRails system.
What We Like
This shoe uses Brooks’ GuideRails system to provide strong support and protection against the rolling of flat feet.
It’s unusually lightweight at just 8.6 ounces, which means this is a great choice for those who want a bit more speed. BioMoGo DNA foam in the midsole offers some energy return.
With 2 mm more foam in the midsole, this shoe also adds a bit more shock absorption and comfort on every step.
It also has a wide platform, which increases the stability for those who are prone to turning their feet.
The sole is stiffer than the previous version of the shoe, and also more eco-friendly, featuring a new Green Rubber compound that uses silica—sand—instead of petroleum.
There’s good rubber coverage under the shoe, making this shoe quite durable.
One downside is that the non-gusseted tongue moves to the side when running and becomes an annoyance or causes chafing.
Why We Like It
The Brooks Launch GTS 10 offers great stability features at an attractive price point, as well as being unusually light for a stability shoe.
What’s New
The Launch GTS 10 is a tiny bit lighter than the 8—4 grams—thanks to a trimmed-down upper. It has 2 mm more cushion in the midsole than its predecessor, and it’s also slightly less flexible in the sole than the 8.
The outsole of the GTS 10 is also more eco-friendly, using Green Rubber instead of regular rubber.
PROS:
- Very lightweight for a stability shoe, increasing comfort
- Subtle but effective stability with the GuideRails system
- A wide platform makes the shoe more stable
- Versatile running shoe for short and slightly longer distances
CONS:
- Some may find the non-gusseted tongue to be an annoyance
Most Cushioned
3. Hoka Arahi 6
The Hoka Arahi 6 is a well-cushioned shoe with a substantial stack height. It’s Hoka’s best shoe for flat feet, a lightweight feel, and a soft landing.
What We Like
The Hoka Arahi 6 is a very cushioned shoe, boasting 30 mm of foam in the forefoot and 35 mm in the heel. This effectively absorbs shock and protects the joints of the feet from jarring.
Despite the extra cushioning—6 mm more than the previous iteration—the shoe is surprisingly lightweight. There is also some energy return in the forefoot, so you can do a variety of different runs with this shoe.
In the midsole, you’ll find a J-Frame, which is a section of denser foam that stops the foot from rolling as it doesn’t compress easily.
The outsole is moderately stiff and has an early-stage meta-rocker to make heel-to-toe transitions smoother.
Durabrasion rubber in high-wear zones on the outsole helps to increase the durability of this shoe.
Hoka shoes run slightly wide, so the Arahi may not be a good fit for runners who have narrow feet.
Why We Like It
There’s plenty of shock-absorbing cushion underfoot when you’re wearing this shoe. Despite the padding, it’s also unusually lightweight.
What’s New
The Arahi 6 has 6 mm more cushion in it than its predecessor. It’s also slightly lighter and has a bit of a more flexible outsole.
PROS:
- Built-in midsole J-Frame for extra stability
- Great balance between plush cushion and energy return
- Early-stage meta-rocker for easy transitions
- Very lightweight considering the amount of cushion
CONS:
- This shoe may not be suitable for runners with narrow feet
Best Lightweight Running Shoe
4. Mizuno Wave Inspire 17
The Mizuno Wave Inspire 17 is a lightweight stability shoe that allows you to get a bit more speed than you may expect.
What We Like
The Mizuno Wave Inspire 17 features a Double Fan Wave plate in the midsole, which stabilizes the foot on the medial side and prevents the foot from rolling.
Despite this substantial technology, the shoe weighs just over 10 ounces, which is quite light compared to many other stability shoes.
Two different types of foam in this shoe give you a great combination of cushioning and energy return. Underneath the wave plate, there’s a wedge of Enerzy foam in the heel, for shock absorption and comfort.
Above the wave plate is U4iC foam, which extends to the forefoot, offering some bounce which makes the shoe great for speedwork too.
A secure, fitted heel cup also helps to keep the foot in place so the wave plate can be as effective as possible.
The outsole has been fortified with X10 rubber and a new pattern, offering exceptional grip on a number of different surfaces.
Although the 17 has a bit of a wider toe box than its predecessor, some may still find that the toe box is too narrow for their liking.
Why We Like It
This shoe offers excellent stability in a fairly lightweight package. The mesh upper is very breathable, making this shoe comfortable and supportive.
What’s New
The Wave Inspire 17 has a wider, more comfortable toe box than its predecessor. It’s also slightly heavier, although it has lost one millimeter of cushion.
The Fan Wave technology has been tightened up a little so it’s less noticeable. Apart from that, there’s no change to the design.
PROS:
- Mizuno Enerzy heel wedge for shock absorption and comfort
- Double Fan Wave plate stabilizes the foot and prevents overpronation
- A secure heel cup helps to hold the foot firmly in place
- X10 rubber outsole for exceptional grip
CONS:
- The shoe has a slightly narrow toe box
Top for Overpronation
5. Asics GT-2000 11
While all of these shoes can help to prevent overpronation, the Asics GT-2000 11 is the best choice for those who have pain and discomfort as a result of their gait.
What We Like
The Asics GT-2000 11 is an effective stability shoe and uses a Litetruss system instead of the old medial post. This means it’s less intrusive and more comfortable, while still providing great support.
As well as the Litetruss offering underfoot support on the medial side of the shoe, 3D Space Construction technology in the forefoot adds to the stability and the cushioning.
This gender-specific technology helps to reduce compression of the foam under the forefoot, providing excellent shock absorption, stability, and a good energy return.
Flytefoam Propel in the midsole provides an excellent balance of softness for comfort and bounce. There’s also Gel technology in the heel for better shock absorption.
One thing to consider is that the thick tongue and heel collar, as well as the plush upper, may make it less breathable and it may run slightly warm in summer weather.
Why We Like It
The Asics GT-2000 11 offers excellent support thanks to the updated Litetruss system and the 3D Space Construction technology. It’s also exceptionally cushioned.
What’s New
The GT-2000 11 features full ground-contact rubber on the outsole, which is a change from the previous version. There are now 4 flex grooves on the outsole as opposed to the last version’s 3.
The Trusstic system of version 10 has been updated to a Litetruss system in the 11th iteration. This provides both stability and arch support, which means it doesn’t use the DuoMax system.
PROS:
- The Litetruss system provides excellent support for the foot
- Flytefoam Propel cushioning offers an excellent balance of bounce and softness
- Gender-specific 3D Space Construction technology adds to the stability
- Rearfoot Gel technology for great shock absorption
CONS:
- This shoe may run slightly warm in hot weather
Best for Heel Support
6. Asics Gel-Kayano 30
Heel support is an important part of foot stabilization, and the Asics Gel-Kayano 30 offers excellent support in the heel area, as well as throughout the shoe.
What We Like
This shoe offers multiple support systems to provide the most comprehensive support possible to overpronators.
The Trusstic System in the midsole prevents the shoe from twisting and creating a rolling gait. It works with the Dynamic DuoMax medial post, which offers support on the medial side of the shoe in the form of dense foam that prevents compression.
There’s also 3D Space Construction technology, which is designed to improve shock absorption as well as help prevent pronation. It’s gender-specific for a higher level of effectiveness.
An external heel clutch keeps the heel firmly in place and holds it in the right position so that the foot can take full advantage of the stability features. However, it’s not the most breathable shoe and may run warm in hot weather.
There is Flytefoam Blast cushioning in the midsole, which provides an excellent mix of softness and responsiveness. There’s gel cushioning in both the rearfoot and the forefoot for improved impact absorption.
Why We Like It
The Asics Gel-Kayano 30 offers support in the heel, midfoot, and forefoot thanks to multiple stability features.
What’s New
The Trusstic system in the Gel-Kayano 30 is less visible as it’s tucked underneath a little bit of cushion. This has allowed the shoe to go full ground-contact rubber for better traction and durability.
Another millimeter of foam has been added to the midsole of the 30. The forefoot is also slightly larger than in the previous version.
PROS:
- Multiple stability systems are incorporated for the best support
- Gel technology in the forefoot and rearfoot for excellent impact absorption
- Flytefoam Blast technology for a responsive toe-off
- External Heel Clutch for rearfoot stability
CONS:
- This shoe isn’t the most breathable and may run slightly warm
Top Made in America
7. New Balance 990 v5
Those who like to go local and stick to shoes that are made in America will appreciate the New Balance 990 v5. It’s ideal for flat feet and works well for running or just wearing casually.
What We Like
This classic Made-In-America sneaker has a retro design, which is a throwback to the original design of the shoe which is over 30 years old.
While it’s not classified as a stability shoe, it does have some features that make it quite supportive for those with flat feet.
The ENCAP midsole is a dual-density footbed that offers both comfort underfoot and extra stability. Underneath the shoe, a generous layer of rubber provides both excellent grip and improved durability.
The new TPU Power Strap around the heel helps to keep the heel firmly in place and prevent rolling of the foot, keeping it stable and supported throughout your gait.
Why We Like It
This shoe is made in the USA and offers light support and stability. However, some may find the shoe to feel heavy on their feet, as it weighs over 11 ounces on average.
What’s New
The New Balance 990 v5 is a bit more spacious than the v4. Also, a power strap has been added for more support and there’s a little more heel cushioning in the v5.
PROS:
- Classic New Balance retro design
- Dual-density ENCAP midsole offers comfort and support
- TPU power straps provide excellent heel stability
- The durable rubber outsole offers great traction and long-lasting protection
CONS:
- This shoe is slightly heavy at 11.3 ounces
Best Light Stability
8. Saucony Guide 16
The Saucony Guide 16 is an excellent choice for those who want a very comfortable shoe with a wider-than-average toe box. It’s light support is perfect for runners who don’t want a full-blown stability shoe.
What We Like
The upper of the Saucony Guide 16 is made from light engineered mesh that hugs the foot and allows for great breathability. It has a wide toe box, which some runners will appreciate.
Although some people may find that the toe box is too wide for comfort and makes the shoe feel unbalanced.
In the midsole, PWRRUN cushioning creates a soft and plush feeling as you move through your gait.
For stability, this shoe uses a system called a Hollow-Tech Frame, which you can see in the cutouts of the midsole on the medial side. This is designed to provide support to the arch and prevent overpronation. But it doesn’t overwhelm the shoe like other stability shoes.
There’s also new midsole geometry which has a more pronounced rocker shape to it, which aids in the smoothness of the heel-to-toe transition.
Why We Like It
The engineered mesh upper offers the best combination of stability, breathability, and comfort. It’s lightweight and allows for good airflow while the lacing system helps you get a good lockdown.
What’s New
The Saucony Guide 16 is an ounce lighter than the 14, despite an addition of 2.5 mm of foam. It also has a softer feel to it because it uses PWRRUN foam. The design is also slightly more rockered than before.
PROS:
- The hollow-Tech frame adds extra stability during your gait
- Lightweight and comfortable engineered mesh upper
- New rockered midsole geometry for a more efficient stride
- Soft, comfortable PWRRUN cushioning
CONS:
- Some may find that the toe box feels too roomy
Most Comfortable
9. New Balance Vongo v5
The New Balance Fresh Foam Vongo v5 is ideal for those with flat feet to take on light recovery runs and it’s comfortable enough for everyday use.
What We Like
The Vongo v5 features a Hypoknit upper with a plush ankle collar, which provides soft step-in comfort. Your heel will be comfortably cupped and kept in position, which will help to amplify the stability features of this shoe.
The Vongo v5 uses Gradient Stability Technology, which is a section of dense foam pellets on the medial side of the midsole. These prevent compression and provide excellent support for the arch.
Fresh Foam X in the midsole is lightweight but provides comfortable softness when running. It’s excellent for recovery runs, but may be too plush for speed work as it’s not very responsive.
The outsole is generously covered in blown rubber, which is highly durable and keeps you safe on multiple different surfaces.
Why We Like It
The New Balance Fresh Foam Vongo is extremely comfortable and uses subtle, unobtrusive foam in the midsole to counter overpronation.
What’s New
The Fresh Foam Vongo v5 has an 8 mm heel-to-toe drop, twice as high as that on the v4, which used a 4 mm drop. It is also almost an ounce lighter than the v4.
The upper has been redesigned to fix problems in the v4, and now features a wider toe box, a slightly differently shaped heel collar, and a wider midfoot—by 5 mm.
PROS:
- Gradient Stability technology to keep your gait neutral
- FreshFoam X midsole is lightweight but provides excellent cushioning
- Newly designed Hypoknit upper for extreme step-in comfort
- Generously-covered blown rubber outsole for exceptional grip
CONS:
- This shoe isn’t suitable for runners who want to pick up the pace
Top Nike Running Shoe for Flat Feet
10. Nike Air Zoom Structure 24
Labeled as a “supportive neutral trainer”, the Nike Air Zoom Structure 24 is suitable for light overpronators or those with flat feet who want a bit more support than a regular shoe can offer them.
What We Like
Although this shoe isn’t classified as a stability shoe, it offers more support than the average neutral trainer.
It’s one of the few Nike shoes to use CMP 010 foam in the midsole, which is soft, spongy, and compressive. This provides a soft and comfortable ride.
There is a Zoome Airbag on the forefoot, which offers excellent shock absorption and also enhances the toe-off.
One of the best features of this shoe is the strong internal heel counter, which keeps the ankle supported and prevents the foot from rolling.
Wearing this shoe is a luxurious experience, thanks to the plush and comfortable upper, which has a thick, comfy tongue and a substantial heel collar.
Why We Like It
The Nike Air Zoom Structure 24 offers mild and unobtrusive support for flat feet while providing excellent cushioning and strong heel support.
What’s New
The Structure 24 has 5 mm of foam more than its predecessor. All other changes are aesthetic only, although the new version is heavier than the previous one.
PROS:
- A supportive neutral shoe that offers light stability
- Zoom Air unit in the forefoot offers shock absorption and bounce
- A strong internal heel counter keeps the ankle stable
- Plush upper for a luxurious step-in feeling
CONS:
- This shoe may not be supportive enough for severe overpronators
Best for Severe Overpronators
11. Brooks Addiction GTS 15
The Brooks Addiction GTS 15 is a popular stability shoe that uses a dual-density midsole to provide great protection against overpronation.
What We Like
This shoe features an Extended Progressive Diagonal Rollbar in the midsole, which offers extra support in the arch area to prevent overpronation.
While most of the midsole is made from BioMoGo DNA blended foam, the rollbar section is made of pure BioMoGo foam, which is firmer and stops the foot from rolling as it doesn’t compress as easily.
The BioMoGo foam adapts to the wearer’s stride and molds to the foot, providing structure, support, and comfort underfoot.
If you need even more support, you can remove the insole and add your own custom orthotic to provide exactly what you need.
The outsole provides exceptional grip thanks to HPR rubber and a unique tread pattern. This also makes the shoe very durable.
However, you should note that this shoe is heavier than many others on this list, weighing over 12 ounces for an average-sized men’s shoe.
Why We Like It
The Brooks Addiction GTS 15 is an effective and plush stability shoe, which uses a tried-and-true stability feature to protect you from rolling your feet.
What’s New
The only thing that has been updated on the Brooks Addiction GTS 15 is the upper, which is now more breathable than before.
PROS:
- Extended Progressive Diagonal Rollbar in the midsole for excellent support
- The removable insole allows for custom orthotics to be added
- BioMoGo DNA cushioning adapts to the runner’s stride
- HPR technology on the outsole for enhanced durability
CONS:
- This shoe is heavy at over 12 ounces in weight
Buyer’s Guide – Running Shoes for Flat Feet
Support and Stability
The first thing you should look for in running shoes for flat feet is some form of stability system in the shoe that provides extra support for the overpronating foot.
Look for GuideRails, a guidance system, a Trusstic system, a medial post, or any other kind of stability system. Runners with flat feet need a stability shoe and you should take care not to inadvertently choose a neutral running shoe.
Stiff Outer Sole
A stiff, inflexible sole will reinforce the stability of the shoe, as it will help to stop your feet from rolling inwards when you walk or run.
Cushioning
Cushioning absorbs shock and provides comfort when you run. A max-cushioned shoe will absorb the force of impact and reduce jarring to the joints and muscle fatigue.
A less cushioned shoe will offer a better ground feel, although the shock absorption may be slightly less.
Arch Support
Arch support is essential to prevent the foot from collapsing into the arch. Usually, those with flat feet will need strong arch support and the arch support will work together with heel support and the stability system to encourage a natural gait.
Heel Support
A deep heel cup and a heel clip will help to hold the heel firmly in position, working with the arch support to keep the foot in the correct position and discourage overpronation.
Breathable
Running shoes need to be breathable to prevent your feet from overheating as you run. A mesh upper is always best for breathability, although leather uppers can work as well.
Weight
Stability shoes are often slightly heavier than neutral running shoes thanks to the extra technology that’s placed into them for support.
If you’re a casual runner, you may not notice the weight difference. However, if you do notice shoe weight, you can still find lightweight stability shoes that will feel less heavy on your feet.
FAQ
What’s the difference between a running shoe for flat feet and a regular running shoe?
A regular running shoe – or a neutral running shoe – has the same type of foam in the sole all the way around the shoe.
A stability shoe – one that’s designed for runners with flat feet or who overpronate – has a chunk of the sole from the mid-arch to the back of the heel that’s made of stiff, dense foam. In the running industry, this is referred to as a medial post.
The medial post does two things: it prevents the foot from rolling in too much while running and walking. And it stiffens the shoe, which usually feels more comfortable to someone with flat arches.
The amount of hard, dense foam in the sole varies from one type of shoe to another. A running shoe like the Brooks Addiction has much more of this foam because it’s made for runners who severely overpronate. The Saucony Guide has less of the foam, making it more of a guidance shoe for mild to moderate overpronators (that is, someone who typically has flat to low arches).
Depending on the shoe, there are other ways to add arch support for flat feet other than a medial post. The Hoka One One Arahi uses a less dense foam that’s spread out through more of the shoe to add support but keep it’s cushioned feel. The New Balance Vongo uses a unique process in building the sole to add stability with the same type of foam through the entire sole.
Ultimately, these all do the same job of supporting flat feet.
Do I need a special running shoe for flat feet?
Yes, probably. But it also varies individual to individual.
A running shoe for flat feet is also known as a stability shoe. These are designed to prevent your feet from rolling in – meaning from initial foot strike to toe off, the foot rolls in severely at the ankle toward the big toe. This is known as overpronation.
Even someone with medium arches and neutral gait will roll in slightly. It’s when it becomes too excessive does that can become a problem.
But some things to consider:
1) Even if you have flat arches and overpronate, you may be able to wear a regular, neutral running shoe and have no pain or injuries. This is not true for everyone and varies on an individual by individual basis. There is an ongoing debate in the scientific biomechanics field about whether stability shoes are necessary.
2) You may have flat arches and not overpronate at all. This means a stability shoe wouldn’t even be necessary.
Our advice is to try a stability shoe if you have flat arches and are new to running. If you don’t like them or they make your feet hurt, experiment with a different pair – maybe a shoe with less support or a more supportive neutral shoe.
For more information about running shoes, check out our in-depth article on choosing the right running shoe.
How to lace running shoes for flat feet?
For most runners, if you have a pair of stability shoes, you don’t need to lace them in any special manner. Normal lacing – the way you learned in first grade – is fine.
But for extra support – or to keep your heel from slipping out of the back of the shoe – use this lace trick to lock your foot into the back of the shoe. This will add an extra layer of stability by securely keeping your foot in the shoe.
The potential downside is that it adds some tension to the top of your foot where you tie your laces. You can play around with how tight you make this to find what feels best to you.
Are neutral running shoes good for flat feet?
Yes and no. It depends on each runners gait, foot structure, and biomechanics.
A broad answer is that wearing neutral shoes if you have flat feet will likely not cause long term damage or injury. It may not be a problem. Some runners with flat feet or who overpronate can run without even noticing anything different between a pair of stability shoes vs neutral shoes.
There are even a few runners with flat feet who prefer a neutral shoe over a stability shoe.
But for the majority of runners with flat feet, a stability shoe will feel more comfortable than a neutral shoe, even if the chance of injury is same for both.
There are also some runners with flat feet who will get hurt wearing neutral shoes – particularly in the knee and ankles – and will benefit from a stability shoe.
Are barefoot running shoes good for flat feet?
Like neutral shoes, the same also applies to barefoot running shoes. It’s going to vary runner to runner.
But common thinking is that when you run barefoot or in barefoot running shoes, your gait changes. It becomes painful to land on your heel and you naturally start taking shorter strides and landing on the ball of your feet or toes. When this happens, overpronating is less likely and its impact on the running gait are lessened.
This means if you are prone to injury from overpronating while running or walking where you land on your heel, you are less likely to have that same type of injury when you are running in barefoot shoes since you are probably not heel striking.
There have also been runners with flat feet who don’t like or get hurt in stability shoes. But have no problems with barefoot running.
The problem with barefoot running shoes is that you need to have good running form. This means short, quick strides and landing on the ball of your foot. This does not come naturally for many people. If you land on your heel in a barefoot running shoe, it’s going to hurt more than a regular running shoe.
This means you need to “retrain” your body to run differently. Which can be hard to do.
If you are interested in learning how to change your form, we recommend Kinetic Revolution’s online course.
