I Tested Shoes for Weeks — These 8 Were the Best for Flat Feet

If you’re a woman looking for an all-around excellent shoe for flat feet, look no further than this Dansko pair. I didn’t test this style myself, but my research found that these sneakers are extra comfy over every terrain, even hard concrete, for hour after hour. They offer excellent support to prevent overpronation (excessive inward rolling of the feet that is common in flat footers.)

The insoles in these shoes offer ample arch support, but the insoles are also removable if you want to add orthotics for a custom fit. Superb shock absorption in the heel makes the shoes comfortable for people with plantar fasciitis and foot, ankle, knee, and back pain. A lightweight, breathable design rounds out the shoe, but be mindful that the toe box isn’t the ideal wide shape that allows for toe splaying.

For men on the move, the Keen Versacore Speed Shoe is a lightweight yet durable option with a cushioned foam midsole, a contoured fit, and a removable foam insole for the ultimate comfort and support. I researched instead of testing this pair of shoes and found that the design provides an ideal amount of cushioning (not too much or too little) while being great for use over a variety of terrains.

The shoes’ soles keep you stable over wet grass or slippery trails, while the breathable mesh upper part of the shoe is great for ventilation. The roomy toe box offers plenty of room for flat footers but, since it’s on the wider side, it may take some getting used to. The shoe also stands out for being lightweight and flexible, a combination of features that isn’t easy to find in a supportive and well-cushioned shoe. It’s important to note that these shoes have a high drop level, meaning a big difference in height between the heel and forefoot. A high drop level can offer more cushioning, support, and shock absorption but offers a less natural foot position, said Fuchs.

The plush midsole made for a comfortable, springy ride and effectively absorbed shock. I have some knee sensitivity due to a past injury, and in these shoes, I never felt the familiar twinge of pain that sometimes arises after a long run. That said, the shoe’s support system might feel a little rigid for some, and they’re a bit clunky.

Looking for an uber-comfy everyday shoe that you can wear to the gym as well as casually? This is the one. The attractive Kuru Atom comes in a variety of cute colors and looks like any athletic shoe, yet it is elevated by a patented sole and curved heel cup designed to be flexible and mold to your feet for the ultimate cushion and comfort.

The excellent arch support in these shoes kept my flat feet stable, and the cushioning left my feet feeling comfortable during long days of holiday shopping and even standing through a boat parade. I loved the flexible mesh upper that I could flex my toes in. As a bonus, they met my style standards enough to make me feel good wearing them to casual holiday events, and I loved that I was investing in my foot health by wearing them. My only complaints are that they don’t have the most fitted look and they are a bit pricey.

Hoping to get outdoors more this year? This breathable, lightweight shoe is designed for rugged terrain and may be just what you need. It features a wide toe box, which is great both for the anatomy of flat feet and for navigating trails as it allows for toe splaying and better stability over uneven terrain. I tested these sneakers on a variety of landscapes, from flat to rocky, and loved the grip and traction they provided. I also like that they are moderately cushioned and comfy, without sacrificing ground feel, so I could still feel and navigate the earth beneath me.

Note that as a zero-drop shoe, the heel and forefoot are at the same level. According to Fuchs, this style can encourage a more natural foot position for people with flat feet by mimicking how our feet naturally rest when barefoot. The design may strengthen the feet and make for a more comfortable experience, but she noted that zero-drop isn’t always the right choice for flat footers (or anyone for that matter). If you’re used to a higher drop, gradually work your way down to these shoes, or consult with a podiatrist to find out the best options for you.

Ryka’s Devotion Walking shoes are some of the most comfortable sneakers I’ve ever worn, and, honestly, a joy to wear. After weeks of testing them, the anatomical insole offered excellent arch and heel support, keeping my feet stable, comfy, and cozy as I went about my day. Ample midsole cushioning gives them plenty of bounce and shock absorption, with great underfoot traction for stability over slippery terrain. The mesh upper hugged my foot perfectly without being restrictive, and to top it all off, the shoes came in a cute black and pink color combination and had a sleek, streamlined look. (I can even see myself wearing them out to brunch.)

At less than $100, these sneakers are affordable compared with many competitors, but note that our research found that the quality is sometimes questionable in terms of longevity. Also, while these are advertised as athletic shoes, you could probably find a better shoe for running or hiking.

According to Fuchs, well-cushioned shoes with proper support can help minimize impact for people with knee pain or back pain. The Bondi 8 offers both. I didn’t have the opportunity to try these kicks myself, but my research found that the shoe’s foam midsole makes the shoes ooze comfort, absorb shock, and offer springy, bouncy support. The soft upper adds even more comfort and helps them fit like a glove.

Not just great for people with body pain, these sneakers would also be an excellent choice for anyone suffering from plantar fasciitis. Just note that the toe box might be a little narrow for some. Also, these are by no means sleek shoes — they’re quite high and wide, so they may not be the most stylish fashion statement.

There’s no point in buying shoes for your teen with flat feet if they don’t wear them. However, teens can be picky about their style. These stretchy canvas sneakers offer what they need in a shoe for flat feet — ample comfy cushioning, a wide toe box, and great support — while looking similar to a pair of classic Chucks. They’re available in neutral colors that will go with any outfit and slip on and off, making them convenient for teens rushing out the door for school.

I’m certainly no teen, but I tried these shoes myself and loved the slip-on feature — I had no issues getting them on or off. And while the shoes aren’t as plush as some of the other pairs I tested, they were very comfortable for everyday use and looked good with much of my casual wardrobe. Unfortunately, I found the shoelaces to be incredibly short, and they kept coming undone for me, so I plan on purchasing some replacement laces along with these shoes.