The 8 Best Running Shoes For Flat Feet To Log Miles In Comfort (2024)

Hannah Singleton

Contributor

Opinions expressed by Forbes Contributors are their own.

Brooks Adrenaline GTS 23

Weight (per shoe):10.1 ounces |Cushion:Moderate |Drop:12 millimeters

Pros:

• Lightweight
• Excellent blend of support and cushioning
• Many color options

Cons:

• May not be firm enough for severe overpronation
• Ankle cuff may rub until you break the shoe in

Brooks is known for their roster of versatile road running shoes that perform from daily training runs to big races, and the Adrenaline GTS 23 is no exception. It’s known as a motion control shoe “because the medial or instep of the shoe tends to be a little bit higher and a little more firm, thereby creating more support and structure for the foot,” explains Geller.

Unlike some ultra-firm motion control shoes, Brooks strikes a fine balance between cushion and support. The Adrenaline feels soft enough that you can wear it on high mileage days thanks to the DNA Loft v2 cushioning, which has been upgraded for this model to be a bit more plush and springy and a touch lighter than the GTS 22. But it still integrates patented GuideRails technology—two pieces of firm foam around the heel to keep your foot in a neutral position throughout your entire stride. For many flat-footed runners, the Brooks Adrenaline series will strike that crucial balance between responsive support and long-term comfort.

Asics Gel-DS Trainer 26

Weight (per shoe):8.5 ounces |Cushion:Minimal |Drop:8 millimeters

Pros:

• Very lightweight
• Grippy outsole that’s perfect for speed work

Cons:

• Narrow fit may not be suitable for all runners

The Gel-DS Trainer 26 shoes from Asics are some of the best value-driven shoes you can buy, even if you don’t happen to find them on sale. The shoe’s knit upper is soft and flexible to respond as you pick up the pace, and the midsole provides excellent shock absorption. “If you look at Asics, their Gel system works well for runners that are logging miles on concrete,” explains Geller. “That’s why a lot of people will gravitate to these shoes.” And, if you train at night, you’ll appreciate the reflective details that enhance your visibility in the dark. However, while they’re still widely available through Amazon and Asics, this model has been retired, so you can find them for a steep discount, but there will come a time when inventory runs out and you’ll have to look elsewhere.

Weight (per shoe):7.6 ounces |Cushion:Medium |Drop:5 millimeters

Pros:

• Cushioning feels plush and supportive yet firm
• Unique, eye-catching design
• Lightweight

Cons:

• Runs small, so be sure to size up
• Might not offer as much support due to lack of shanks or a medial post

You may not have heard of Diadora, but that doesn’t mean you should dismiss this Italian-based athletic shoe brand. Their Cellula shoe is ideal for flat feet because it lacks the added weight and structure that comes with traditional stability shoes. The lower drop height of 5 millimeters creates a more level landing point, so impact forces distribute evenly while foot and ankle motion feels more natural.

At 7.6 ounces for a women’s size 7, it’s one of the lightest shoes on this list, and you’ll notice that lack of weight as soon as you slip it on. The one caveat worth noting is that this is a neutral running shoe, so it won’t provide as much support, but it’s a great option for runners who want a classic shoe with a stable base.

Hoka Arahi 7

Weight (per shoe):8.1 ounces |Cushion:High |Drop:5 millimeters

Pros:

• Snug, low-profile fit
• Lighter and more flexible underfoot than most stability shoes
• Selective “J-Frame” stabilization encourages strong muscle activation
• Comfortable heel collar

Cons:

• Best for easy miles at a steady pace; not quite springy enough to accommodate quick turnover

Maclean Wright, an avid runner in Salt Lake City who averages 1,200 miles a year on both roads and trails, struggled to find comfortable shoes for his flat feet. Now, he swears by Hoka shoes, and for road runs, he prefers the Arahi 7, a stability shoe, because of its lightweight design. “I used to roll my ankles all the time when I used more narrow performance sneakers, but Hoka’s stability shoe is wider and therefore more stable,” he explains. This shoe also has a flat knit upper—an update from previous iterations—to achieve a secure fit around the midfoot for “locked in” support.

While this shoe doesn’t provide as much structure as a motion control shoe, Hoka’s J-Frame technology offers mild support along the entire length of the shoe, making it versatile enough for a wide range of runners. But this model is more than a stability shoe: Wright also loves the wide toe box and thick, cushioned sole for long runs.

The Hoka Arahi 7 earned top marks for comfort and support in our stability shoes buyer’s guide—head there to learn more about this shoe and why we love it.

Weight (per shoe): 8.3 ounces | Cushion: Minimal | Drop: 0 millimeters

Pros:

• Lightweight, breathable no-shoe feel
• More durable than many barefoot shoes on the market
• Removable 3.5-millimeter insole lets you decide how “barefoot” you want to be

Cons:

• Less minimal than some barefoot shoes
• Polarizing design

There is no right shoe for all runners with flat feet. While some prefer shoes packed with stability features or lots of cushioning, others prefer to keep it minimal because, in theory, a lack of cushion can strengthen the musculature of the foot and help with collapsed arches.

With that in mind, the Xero HFS II is an ideal transition shoe for runners looking to start their barefoot journey. While many barefoot shoes sacrifice protection, these sport a 5-millimeter rubber outsole that protects against rocks while a 3.5-millimeter removable insole provides extra padding. They’re also incredibly lightweight and breathable, making them perfect for runs in warm temps.

Keep in mind that research on barefoot shoes is limited and your personal preference may be dictated by your symptoms. Consult a podiatrist if traditional running shoes aren’t solving your problems, and slowly increase your miles with barefoot or minimalist shoes to let your feet adapt.

Saucony Tempus

Weight (per shoe): 7.9 ounces | Cushion: High | Drop: 8 millimeters

Pros:

• Springy, responsive sole for fast turnover
• Broad support across the whole midsole
• Lightweight and streamlined

Cons:

• Longer break in time required
• Rigidity in arch might cause some discomfort

While many of the best speed-oriented running shoes offer neutral support,Saucony packed some of the most impressive features of its high performance shoes (like the Endorphin Speed) into a stability shoe. On the speed side, it features springy, proprietary PWRRUN PB foam for superior energy return and a FORMFIT design to help you achieve a perfect, snug fit. But all that speed doesn’t skimp on stability.

Along the medial side of the shoe, Saucony incorporates a stiffer piece of PWRRUN foam to serve as a frame which prevents your foot from leaning inward. If you’re looking to push the pace while keeping your flat feet supported, this shoe is definitely down to get you moving.

Altra Lone Peak 8

Weight (per shoe): 10.7 ounces | Cushion: Moderate | Drop: 0 millimeters

Pros:

• Wide toe box improves toe splay
• Energetic midsole
• Unique colorways that stand out on the trail

Cons:

• The outsole isn’t made by Vibram, which is disappointing for the price

It comes as no surprise to learn that flat feet are often wide feet, and while you may not need a wide-width running shoe, you should look for models with a bit more interior room like the Altra Lone Peak 8. It isn’t much wider through the midfoot than a traditional running shoe, but the toe box offers a lot more room to allow for foot expansion and toe splay upon impact with the trail. After wearing versions of the Lone Peak for over five years, Vetted gear editor Cam Vigliotta (a flat-footed runner) swears by the shoe’s roomy interior that significantly ups the comfort factor.

New for 2024, the Lone Peak 8 doesn’t look all that different from its predecessor, the Lone Peak 7, but it is a little lighter and the upper features a more durable ripstop fabric. Underfoot, you’ll find the same grippy, lugged outsole that’s reliable on technical trails, and small details, like the strapless gaiter attachment system and zero drop, are also present. If a few minor upgrades aren’t worth the price tag, invest in the Lone Peak 7 now that it’s on sale.

New Balance Fresh Foam X 860v13

Weight (per shoe): 8.6 ounces | Cushion: Medium | Drop: 10 millimeters

Pros:

• Comes in four widths: Narrow, standard, wide, extra-wide
• Dreamy cushioning
• A supportive medial post to promote neutral foot alignment

Cons:

• 10-millimeter drop might be too drastic for some

New Balance’s Fresh Foam X cushioning is beloved among distance runners seeking comfort (the 1080v13 is one of the most popular neutral running shoes), and flat-footed runners can get in on the fun with the 860v13. With customizable width options and a soft mesh upper, this shoe is ultra comfy and ultra versatile. The medial post runs along the side of the shoe to provide some much-needed structure for overpronators, and there’s enough cushioning to lend support on long runs, but not so much that it’s unstable at faster tempos.

But comfort isn’t all about cushioning: You need a shoe that regulates temperature well, too, and the breathable mesh upper on this model does just that. Plus, the padded tongue cradles the foot, and the spacious toe box eliminates any chance of blisters. We love this shoe because it makes most runners happy on a daily basis—and flat-footed runners deserve to enjoy a shoe just as much as anybody else.