The Best Walking Shoes For Flat Feet, According To A Podiatrist

The best walking shoes for flat feet evenly redistribute your body weight to alleviate stress on your arches and joints. After extensive research (and podiatrist recommendations), we selected the Hoka Bondi 8 as the best pick because of it’s shock-absorbing heel and structured design. For those with flat feet, finding the right shoe is a bit more complicated than just looking at style and comfort. “When an individual has flat feet, their body loads pressure on the foot in an uneven manner which can leave them susceptible to pain and injury,” says Mohammad Rimawi, DPM, podiatrist and foot surgeon in New York City. “The purpose of sneakers are to mitigate this effect and reestablish proper loading on the feet.”

With this expert advice in mind, we analyzed various types of footwear to find the best walking shoes for flat feet, whether you’re looking for serious cushioning or a more minimalist model. We also rounded up the best sneakers for arch support and shoes for back pain, too.

At Forbes Vetted, we take a detail-oriented approach to product reviews for everything from tech to apparel to outdoor gear. With so many options available, we’re here to help you make informed shopping decisions.

For this guide, Forbes Vetted contributor Hannah Singleton has years of experience testing footwear and analyzed each shoe’s features and performance. She also consulted with podiatrists and orthopedic experts to gather insights tailored to the needs of individuals with flat feet. Every shoe recommended here has been evaluated based on these expert opinions.

How We Chose The Best Walking Shoes For Flat Feet

Our selection process began with a comprehensive survey of the most popular and well-reviewed walking shoes designed for flat feet. We prioritized shoes that offer superior arch support, stability and cushioning, which are critical for mitigating the discomfort associated with flat feet. Each shoe was evaluated based on material quality, customer reviews and expert insight as well. We also consulted with two experts:
• Mohammad Rimawi, DPM, podiatrist and foot surgeon in New York City

Both Rimawi and Roach frequently recommend walking shoes to their clients. Some of their favorites include the Hoka Bondi 8 and OrthoFeet Kita Hands-Free.

What To Consider About Shoes For Flat Feet

Individuals with flat feet need to approach their footwear choices a bit differently than those with more rounded arches. Here are a few considerations:

If you have flat feet, arch support is a personal preference and should be based on feel. For ample arch support, look for shoes like the OrthoFeet Kita Hands-Free that offer a solid, supportive base to lift the arch slightly, promoting a more natural foot alignment and reducing strain during movement. However, if too much arch support causes pain, a flat shoe like the Vivobarefoot Primus Lite Knit that helps you build strength may serve you better.

Adequate cushioning absorbs impact and reduces stress placed on your ankles, knees, and hips during walking. While most shoes have cushioning along the length of the shoe, Rimawi recommends paying specific attention to the heel. It should have more cushioning than the toes, and could even have specific shock-absorbing features, like an air or gel pocket, for extra comfort.

People with flat feet tend to struggle with overpronation, where the foot tends to roll inward. Over time, this can cause pain and imbalances. Shoes with built-in stability features can help keep your foot aligned and reduce the risk of injuries.

No matter the type of shoe, you always want ones that fit well without being too tight or too loose. A good fit will help avoid additional foot problems and ensure that the features of the shoe can function properly to support your foot. In each of our shoe recommendations in this guide we mention any brand-specific sizing considerations that you need to know when buying a new pair of shoes.

Flat feet may cause your shoes to wear out unevenly, so choose a durable pair that can withstand the extra wear and tear. Durable materials and robust construction extends the life of the shoes, providing long-term support and comfort. We specifically selected shoes that can stand up to heavy use.

What Shoe brand Is Best For Flat Feet?

Brands such as Brooks, Orthofeet, Hoka, and Asics are often recommended and podiatrist-approved. However, you shouldn’t just purchase any model from these brands—look for one that fits your specific foot shape and needs. For example, you may need a strong arch support system, firm midsole and design features aimed at enhancing stability and reducing foot strain during long walks.

How Should I Walk If I Have Flat Feet?

Many people with flat feet tend to overpronate, which means that the arch collapses inward. Individuals with flat feet should focus on maintaining proper walking form to avoid discomfort and injury. This includes:
• Ensuring the whole foot makes contact with the ground evenly, rolling from heel to toe.
• Keeping the stride moderate, not too long, to prevent overextension.
• Using supportive footwear that aligns well with the natural foot shape.

Do Flat Feet Need More Arch Support?

Yes, flat feet generally benefit from more arch support to compensate for the lack of natural arch curvature. Enhanced arch support in shoes helps distribute body weight more evenly, which can alleviate pain and prevent further foot problems associated with flat feet such as plantar fasciitis and heel spurs. However, for some individuals with flat feet, arch support can often feel too intense. In this case, building foot strength through barefoot-style shoes like the Vivobarefoot Primus Lite Knit (rather than relying on built-in arch support) could be beneficial.