Flat feet, also known as pes planus or fallen arches, affect up to 30% of the general population in some way. The lack of an arch in the foot causes it to strike the ground, which can negatively impact your posture, stability, and alignment. While most people with flat feet experience minimal or no symptoms, for those who do, the pain and discomfort can significantly disrupt daily activities. According to Saylee Tulpule, DPM, a board-certified podiatrist with Foot and Ankle Specialists of the Mid Atlantic, flat feet can lead to additional foot issues like plantar fasciitis, tendonitis, and arthritis as well as lower back, hip, and knee pain.
Whether you're born with flat feet or develop this condition over time, choosing the proper footwear is asimple way to alleviate pain and promote mobility. The best shoes for flat feet are designed to alleviate pressure on the midsole and provide support so every step is comfortable and ache-free.
To find the best footwear for flat feet, we tested 73 pairs of shoes and sandals for over 7,000 hours in the Health lab and on the streets. We also consulted a five-foot-and-ankle specialist for their expert advice on choosing shoes for flat feet. Based on our tests, these are our top-rated shoes for flat feet for every style, fit, and activity. In addition, a podiatrist from ourMedical Expert Boardreviewed this article to ensure accuracy regarding shoe shopping for flat feet.
- Best Overall: Keen Versacore Speed Shoe
- Best Slip-Ons: Kizik Irvine
- Best for Plantar Fasciitis: Aetrex Danika Arch Support Sneaker
- Best for Plantar Fasciitis: M. Gemi The Danza
- Best for Narrow Feet: Naturalizer Sole Adore Mary Jane Wedge
- Best for Wide Feet: Skechers Arch Fit Arcade - Meet Ya There
Why We Like It
The Keen Women's Versacore Speed Shoe stands out for its exceptional comfort, stability, and durability across various terrains. Its suitability for a wide range of activities, from hiking to gardening, coupled with minimal wear after extensive use, made this our No. 1 pick.
From day one, we noticed how the extra padding in the heel put a spring in our step and made our joints happy after hours on our feet. These shoes continued to look like new, even after wearing them for days on end.
What we appreciated most about the shoes was the lack of an obtrusive arch support, which allowed our feet to bend and flex naturally. We literally felt like we could walk anywhere in these shoes with no problem.
It’s Worth Noting
- These shoes felt roomier in the toe box than we were used to, but we quickly adjusted.
Product Details:
- Sizes: 5 to 12 (women)
- Heel Height: .8 inches
- Weight: 11.6 ounces
Orthotic-Friendly Sneaker
Aetrex Carly Arch Support Sneakers
Why We Like It
With built-in arch support, the Aetrex Carly Arch Support Sneakers help align the foot properly, providing comfort and stability and making them orthotic-friendly for those with flat feet. The cushioning is designed to absorb shock and reduce stress on the feet, while the firm midsole offers additional support.
Additionally, the spacious toe box allows for natural foot movement and can accommodate custom orthotics if needed. These shoes fit like a glove and hugged in all the right places. They quickly became a favorite.
It’s Worth Noting
- They may retain some odor after prolonged use
Product Details:
- Sizes: 5 to 13
- Heel Height: 8 millimeters
- Weight: 7.2 ounces
Why We Like It
We are obsessed with how easy it is to slip on the Kizik Irvine Sneaker and get moving. As an added bonus, the arch support in these shoes provides just enough cushy support without being uncomfortable against flat feet.
The shoes are designed to be able to slip on and off hands-free, so the heel has more structure but maintains flexibility. There’s also a good amount of cushioning around the ankle and tongue of the shoe, which we noticed helped with the flexible hold of the shoe while walking.
It's Worth Noting
- These shoes run small, so consider sizing up.
Product Details:
- Sizes: 6-13 (women's), 4.5-15 (men's)
- Heel Height: .7 inches
- Weight: 8.5 ounces
Best for Plantar Fasciitis
Aetrex Danika Arch Support Sneaker
Why We Like It
If you have plantar fasciitis, we recommend trying theAetrex Danika Arch Support Sneakers. These shoes are designed with arch support torelieve pressure on the plantar fascia, a key factor in managing the painful condition.
The cushioning is also super plush, making our steps feel softer and easier, especially on the heel and forefoot. The firm midsole offers stability, helping to keep the foot properly aligned and preventing excessive inward rolling, which can aggravate plantar fasciitis.
We also appreciated the extra padding around the heel and tongue, which felt like a total game-changer for comfort.
It's Worth Noting
- These shoes required a brief break-in period before they felt truly comfortable.
Product Details:
- Sizes: 5.5-12
- Heel Height: 1.1 inches
- Weight: 8 ounces
Best for Motion Control
Dr. Scholl’s Hannah Sneaker
Why We Like It
Looking for shoes that keep your feet feeling solid and supported while minimizing the risk of knee or ankle issues during long walks? Dr. Scholl’s Hannah Sneakers provide excellent motion control, making them a great choice for those with flat feet. The shoe's snug fit, even without laces, helps keep the heel securely in place, preventing any slipping or movement.
We loved how sturdy we felt transitioning from the sidewalk to grass and turf without feeling off balance. The thick, cushioned sole offers great shock absorption, which minimizes the risk of knee or ankle issues during long walks.
It’s Worth Noting
- These shoes aren't as breathable as others we tried, and we'd love to see them with a more stylish design.
Product Details:
- Sizes: 6-11 (women's)
- Heel Height: 1.25 inches
- Weight: Not listed
Why We Like It
If you're on the hunt for a great pair of waterproof shoes that support your flat feet, the FitFlop NEO-D-HYKER is a fantastic choice. These shoes are super durable and incredibly comfortable for long periods, and they come in waterproof leather or suede.
The thick, comfy platform and spacious toe box make them perfect for all-day wear, whether you're hiking or walking in unpredictable weather. They provide excellent ankle support and shock absorption, so you won't feel harsh terrain. Plus, they're waterproof and odor-resistant, so no worries about wet feet or unpleasant smells.
It’s Worth Noting
- These shoes are designed for safe walking on rough or steep surfaces, so they are bulkier and heavier than road shoes. This can make quick movements and transitioning into the next stride difficult.
Product Details:
- Sizes: 5-11
- Heel Height: 1.5 inches
- Weight: 2.5 pounds
Best for Knee Pain Relief
GDEFY Women's Mighty Walk Athletic Shoes
Why We Like It
If you're dealing with knee pain, the GDEFY Mighty Walk Athletic Shoes could be a lifesaver. Thanks to GDEFY's VersoShock technology, these shoes offer excellent shock absorption, reducing stress on your joints and knees. This innovative feature helps cushion each step, making walking smoother and more comfortable.
These shoes held up well during our testing, maintaining their shape after miles of walking. We also appreciated the firmness and stability of the midsole and the wideness of the toe box, which gave our toes plenty of room to breathe.
It’s Worth Noting
- These shoes come with Corrective Fit Orthotics to help align your body properly as you walk, so allow time for a break-in period. The shoes can also feel a bit clunky and heavy, which might not appeal to everyone, especially for everyday use.
Product Details:
- Sizes: 6-11 (women's)
- Heel Height: 1.5 inches
- Weight: 10 ounces
Best Flats for Plantar Fasciitis
M. Gemi The Danza Tan Leather
Why We Like It
These flats are crafted from high-quality Italian leather, offering a luxurious feel and durability. Plus, the M. Gemi The Danza ballet slippers fit snugly around the heel, which prevents slipping. Also, the spacious toe box allows your toes to spread naturally without feeling constricted. This makes them comfortable for all-day wear, whether you're at work or out and about.
One standout feature is the arch support, which helps distribute pressure across your feet and prevents inward rolling—a big plus if you have flat feet or are prone to plantar fasciitis. These flats are stylish and versatile, perfect for a chic, polished look. However, they are on the pricier side at $250, which might be a consideration depending on your budget.
It’s Worth Noting
- If you prefer a quiet shoe, these may not be for you. They were noisy on hard surfaces. Plus, the high price tag may make them out of reach for budget-conscious shoppers.
Product Details:
- Size: 5-12
- Heel height: .8 inches
- Weight: Not listed
Best for Narrow Feet
Naturalizer Soul Adore Mary Jane Wedge
Why We Like It
If you have narrow feet, it can be hard to find a shoe that fits snugly enough to prevent excessive movement, which can lead to blisters and discomfort. The Naturalizer Soul Adore Mary Jane Wedge puts a stylish end to your struggle! The chic design with a high heel/platform is perfect for more formal events while still being super comfy for those of us with flat feet.
The cushioning is lush and soft, offering great shock absorption and reducing joint pain. Although the buckle can be a bit stiff, once they're on, these shoes are durable and comfortable, holding up well even with lots of walking. Plus, we felt the price was quite reasonable for the quality they offer.
It’s Worth Noting
- These might be a bit tight for those with wider feet, so sizing up could help.
Product Details:
- Sizes: 5 to 13 (women’s)
- Heel Height: 2 5/8 inches
- Weight: Not listed
Best for Wide Feet
Skechers Arch Fit Arcade Meet Ya There Women's Sneakers
Why We Like It
Wider feet can often feel cramped and uncomfortable in a shoe that's too narrow. Add flat arches to the mix and you've got a recipe for sore and achy feet. That's why we love the comfortable and spacious fit of the Skechers Arch Fit Arcade - Meet Ya There shoes. Despite not needing to tie the laces, the shoe kept our feet securely in place during extended walks.
These shoes also offer excellent arch support, aligning well with the foot’s arch and providing stability, which is especially beneficial for flat feet or overpronation. We also appreciated their breathability, which kept our feet dry and prevented odor from building up.
It’s Worth Noting
- Because these shoes are white, they show dirt fairly quickly. We didn't mind cleaning them, but this could be a hassle if you prefer low-maintenance footwear.
Product Details:
- Sizes: 5 to 11 (women’s)
- Heel Height: 1 inch
- Weight: 10 ounces
- See AlsoPain in the top of the foot
Why We Like It
We love the Naturalizer Soul Bebe Loafers for their comfort, especially for those of us with wider feet. The shoes fit snugly without being too tight and have ample room in the toe box to prevent blisters. We also noted how the loafers provided impressive arch support for our flat feet, keeping them comfortable even after long periods of walking.
These shoes balance style and practicality, making them ideal for various occasions like going out, work and day walking. The cushioning is squishy and flexible, and they hold up well without significant wear and tear. We also love that they don't hold on to odor, despite wearing them without socks.
It’s Worth Noting
- The back of the shoe rubbed our heel uncomfortably, but this went away after a few wears. A breaking-in period is common with this type of shoe style.
Product Details:
- Sizes: 5 to 11 (women’s)
- Heel Height: 3/4 inch
- Weight: Not listed
Best for Power Walking
Orthofeet Francis Walking Shoe
Why We Like It
Hey power walkers! If you're looking for the ultimate sneakers to keep up with your stride, the Orthofeet Francis No-Tie Sneakers are a game changer. With flat feet, finding shoes that provide enough arch support can be tricky, but these exceeded our expectations. The no-tie feature makes slipping them on a breeze, perfect for those of us who prefer hassle-free footwear.
From day-to-day errands to long walks in the park and even shopping trips to IKEA, these sneakers have got you covered. They come with additional inserts for customizable comfort, ensuring a snug fit without any heel slipping or toe cramping. Plus, the arch support aligns perfectly, taking away the usual pain that comes with flat feet during long walks.
It’s Worth Noting
- While we liked the convenience of the no-tie laces, we wish they had a little more stretch to enhance their comfort.
Product Details:
- Sizes: 5-12 (women’s)
- Heel Height: .75 inches
- Weight: Not listed
Why We Like It
The Taos Z Soul Sneakers come with firm but not hard polyurethane insoles that provide support in the arch and heel areas. The insole's removable feature allows for easy replacement with custom orthotics, making them perfect for people with specific foot conditions like flat feet and plantar fasciitis.
We also love the versatility and stylishness of these sneakers, and we wore them with several outfits - not just our athletic clothes. They fit well and remained comfortable during daily walks, running errands and casual outings. These shoes also feature a wide toe box that comfortably accommodates medium-width feet, preventing blisters and chafing.
- The wide toe box could make these a poor fit if you have narrow feet.
Product Details:
- Sizes: 6-11 (women’s)
- Heel Height: 1 and 1/8 inches
- Weight: 11 ounces
Best Cushioning
Under Armour Unisex UA Apparition Shoes
Why We Like It
Wearing the Under Armour Unisex UA Apparition Shoes felt like walking on a sturdy cloud. The memory foam-like cushioning molded to our feet, providing excellent arch support and keeping us pain-free, even after long periods of walking.
In addition to their superior cushioning, these shoes offer great shock support and stability. They fit perfectly, with plenty of room in the toe box and a snug heel fit. We felt the stylish design and comfortable fit make these shoes worth every penny. During our testing, they held up well with no noticeable wear or tear and didn't retain odors.
It's Worth Noting
- These shoes don't have much grip on the bottom, which makes them slippery on wet surfaces.
Product Details:
- Sizes: 3.5-13 (men's), 5-14.5 (women’s)
- Heel Height: 1 inch
- Weight: 9.5 ounces
Why We Like It
We absolutely love the Vionic Alameda Mary Jane Flats for their perfect wide toe box, making them ideal for flat feet! These shoes provide plenty of room for your toes to move and spread out comfortably, while still offering a snug fit in the heel. The arch support aligned perfectly and made us feel stable and supported during long walks.
These flats are not just about comfort but also style. They are perfect for dressy or casual outfits. Plus, they’ve held up beautifully through daily wear, looking as good as new without any odor issues. These shoes truly combine function and fashion, making them a must-have for anyone with flat feet!
- These shoes are a bit stiff, which might make them feel less cushiony and more structured. This could be uncomfortable if you prefer a softer and more flexible shoe.
Product Details:
- Sizes: 5-13 (women’s)
- Heel Height: .375 inches
- Weight: Not listed
Why We Like It
We found the arch support from the Vionic Walk Strider Sneakers provided a level of comfort and support that truly stood out. This precise alignment helped keep our feet and ankles stable and comfortable throughout the day, whether we were walking for exercise or running errands. These shoes also prevented foot pain, even after long periods of wear, which is a huge plus.
The Vionic Walk Strider Sneakers also offered excellent shock absorption and stability. The spacious and deep toe box allowed our toes to move freely and prevented discomfort and blisters. Overall, these sneakers combine stylish design with functional support, making them a great choice for anyone with flat feet.
It's Worth Noting
- The structure of the shoe takes some getting used to and may not be ideal for every foot type.
Product Details:
- Sizes: 5-13 (women’s)
- Heel Height: 1.75 inches
- Weight: Not listed
Why We Like It
These sneakers stand out because they are lively and come in a selection of vibrant colors and prints. They're also insanely comfortable. We loved how they felt from the first time we laced up the Vivaia V Prime Unisex Casual Sneakers. These shoes also provide excellent arch support without feeling intrusive.
The stretchy knit fabric is lightweight and soft, offering just the right amount of cushion and shock support. These shoes are perfect for long walks and standing for extended periods. The wide toe box provides plenty of room for toes to spread naturally, making them ideal for those with wider feet.
It's Worth Noting
- The toe box may be too wide for those with wider feet, and they come in limited half sizes.
Product Details:
- Sizes: 3.5-12 (men's), 5-13.5 (women’s)
- Heel Height: 1 inch
- Weight: Not listed
Merrell's Moab Speed 2 : While we were delighted that these shoes are sturdy and lightweight, we were disappointed that the toe box felt too tight, especially for those with wide feet. This tightness caused discomfort and pinching in the toes after wearing the shoes for more than a few hours and limited how long they could be worn comfortably.
Our Testing Process
During our extensive testing to find the best shoes for flat feet, we spent almost 300 hours testing 73 pairs of shoes, sneakers, and sandals in theHealthlab and on the streets. We documented every minute detail about the footwear, from materials and construction to the arch support, toe box, and heel height, and based our final ratings on these important attributes:
- Fit: Initially, we accessed the shoe's fit by walking in them for 30 minutes, checking for good arch support, enough space for the toes, and a snug fit around the heel and midfoot. We looked out for any signs of discomfort, irritation, or overpronation. We gradually increased the duration by three hours, then up to eight hours, and compared how our feet felt when we first put on the shoes in the morning versus when we took them off at the end of the day.
- Stability: We performed a "bend test" by twisting the shoe to ensure it resisted twisting and bending at the toes. We further tested stability by wearing the shoes on various terrains to check for consistent support.
- Responsiveness: We evaluated how the shoes reacted to bending and flexing during the initial tests and then monitored their performance during our longer wear to see if they maintained flexibility and support over time.
- Cushioning: During our short walks, we focused on the heel and arch areas, and we continued to pay attention to whether the cushioning continued to provide comfort and support during prolonged use.
- Comfort: We noted initial comfort during a 30-minute walk, focusing on any discomfort or irritation. We continued to assess comfort over longer periods, paying attention to the development of blisters, chafing, and the shoes' breathability.
- Quality: We inspected the shoes for manufacturing flaws right out of the box and assessed their performance in bend and twist tests. Over time, we noted any wear and tear, comparing the shoes' condition from start to finish.
- Value: We determined the overall value of the shoes by carefully evaluating their fit, stability, responsiveness, cushioning, comfort, and quality. We noted whether they provided a balanced combination of features for their price and long-term durability.
- Diana Levin Valencia, DPM, a board-certified podiatrist and surgeon at NYC Health + Hospitals in New York, New York
- Shine John, DPM, FACFAS, a board-certified foot and ankle specialist and podiatric surgeon with Shine Foot and Ankle Center in Texas
- William Spielfogel, DPM, board-certified podiatrist, chief of podiatry in the department of orthopaedic surgery, at Northwell Health Lenox Hill Hospital in New York, and medical advisor for The Good Feet Store
- Nelya Lobkova, DPM, a certified surgical podiatrist and founder of Step Up Surgical Podiatry in NYC
- Saylee Tulpule, DPM, a board-certified podiatrist practicing with Foot & Ankle Specialists of the Mid Atlantic
What to Know About Shoes for Flat Feet
When selecting the best shoes for flat feet, keep an eye on the following factors to find the best shoes for you:
- Arch Support: Shoes that have no support at the arch are likely to exacerbate pain and inflammation along the inside of the foot and ankle, Dr. Spielfogel says..Finding the right arch support will not only alleviate the pain and discomfort that comes from having flat feet but also support your feet and prevent injury.
- Stability: Dr. John suggests that your shoe should have a firmer structure than the sole, good cushioning, internal arch support, and enough durability to withstand the deforming forces experienced by flat feet. Dr. Lobkova recommends testing shoe stability and durability by squeezing the back of the shoe and attempting to fold it in half. A durable, supportive shoe will be difficult to squeeze and bend.
- Cushioning: Dr. Spielfogel notes that flat-footed individuals tend to pronate and have good shock absorption, requiring less cushioning than those with high arches. Comfortable options should place the feet in a neutral position, offering excellent cushioning while allowing natural foot movement.
- Responsiveness: Dr. Spielfogel highlights the importance of responsive cushioning, which is the rebound or bounce-back sensation felt when your feet hit the ground. This kind of cushioning helps propel energy back into your feet and is particularly beneficial for those with flat feet.
- Heel Height: Shoes with a small heel of around 4 to eight millimeters can be helpful for those with flat feet because they can positively influence arch height, Dr. John says. Anything higher could cause issues with the ball of the foot and knees.
- Shoes to Avoid: Dr. Lobkova advises against minimalist shoes like Vibram Five Fingers. These shoes don’t provide enough sole stability and lack cushioning under the ball of your foot, which might put too much stress on your heel bone.
Sherri Gordon, CLC, has been covering health and social issues for nearly 20 years and has written countless articles with a health focus. Consequently, she is well versed and knowledgeable about a number of health conditions that impact our everyday lives, including foot and ankle issues that interfere with daily activities. Plus, as someone who spends time walking every day, Sherri knows how important it is to find shoes that not only fit comfortably but also do not exacerbate any pain or discomfort you have.
Suzie Glassmanis a freelance writer specializing in parenting, wellness, fitness, mental health, and education. Her work appears in WIRED, Parents, Health, Insider, SheKnows, Triathlete, and more. Suzie is also a part-time fitness coach in Denver, CO.
Our Top Picks
Orthotic-Friendly Sneaker:
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Best for Plantar Fasciitis:
Best for Knee Pain Relief:
Best Flats for Plantar Fasciitis :
Best for Narrow Feet:
Best for Wide Feet:
Skechers Arch Fit Arcade Meet Ya There Women's Sneakers at Amazon$70