Are You a Flat-Footed Runner? Then These Sneakers Are for You (2024)

Are You a Flat-Footed Runner? Then These Sneakers Are for You (1)

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Choosing the perfect running sneakers is no walk in the park, especially if you have flat feet. Numerous factors play into what shoe will suit you best, from where you're doing most of your runs (a trail? on the road? the treadmill?) to your running gait and, most importantly, what feels most comfortable to you.

Not sure if you have flat feet? If the "entire soles of your feet touch the floor when you stand up," you categorically do, per the Mayo Clinic. The medical center notes that while "most people's arches develop throughout childhood," others' never do. But that's nothing to be concerned about—it's normal—and people without arches "may or may not have problems."

In choosing a comfortable sneaker for flat feet, the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA) recommends zeroing in on options designed for stability and motion control. This type of shoe can help correct overpronation (aka when your foot rolls inward when you land while running; common in people with flat feet) and, thus, prevent aches and pains in your knees and shins.

To curate a comprehensive guide to the best women's running sneakers for flat feet, we studied expert opinions and customer reviews of our favorite brands, including Nike, On Running, and Hoka, among others. There are options for those who go for casual jogs, as well as picks for marathoners in training. Keep scrolling to shop our top sneaker picks for flat feet ahead.

1

Best Running Shoes for Overpronation

Asics Gel-Kayano 28

Are You a Flat-Footed Runner? Then These Sneakers Are for You (12)

1

Best Running Shoes for Overpronation

Asics Gel-Kayano 28

These top-rated trainers are a longtime favorite of overpronators. They feature the brand's Dynamic Duomax Support System, which reduces the foot's inward rolling motion to improve stability—with comfy cushioning at the midsole to propel you forward.

2

Best Running Shoes for Knee Support

Brooks Ariel '20

Are You a Flat-Footed Runner? Then These Sneakers Are for You (13)

2

Best Running Shoes for Knee Support

Brooks Ariel '20

Now 41% Off

These innovative sneakers work overtime to protect your feet, knees, and hips. They feature cushioned arch support and the added benefit of GuideRails, which reduce excess shin and heel rotation to protect your knees (which are the most injury-prone part of a runner's body, FYI).

3

Best Trail Running Shoes

Hoka Stinson ATR 6 Running Shoe

Are You a Flat-Footed Runner? Then These Sneakers Are for You (14)

3

Best Trail Running Shoes

Hoka Stinson ATR 6 Running Shoe

Now 30% Off

You'll have no problem hitting the trails in these Hoka sneakers, born to deliver support and traction, no matter the terrain—be it hills or rocky land. This latest iteration offers increased stability and less weight.

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4

Best Lightweight Running Shoes

On Running Cloudflyer

Are You a Flat-Footed Runner? Then These Sneakers Are for You (15)

4

Best Lightweight Running Shoes

On Running Cloudflyer

Beyond being stylish, these sneakers are ultra-lightweight, boasting the brand's patented cushiony CloudTec technology for soft landings and explosive takeoffs. They're made for training and racing, with memory foam midsoles for added stability.

5

Best Running Shoes on a Budget

Saucony Women's Seasonal Guide 14 Running Shoe

Are You a Flat-Footed Runner? Then These Sneakers Are for You (16)

Are You a Flat-Footed Runner? Then These Sneakers Are for You (17)

5

Best Running Shoes on a Budget

Saucony Women's Seasonal Guide 14 Running Shoe

This Saucony stability shoe is the latest iteration of the brand's bestselling Guide sneakers. They're the most affordable option on our list, with a spacious toe box and firm foam that'll keep your feet steady.

6

Hoka Gaviota 4

Are You a Flat-Footed Runner? Then These Sneakers Are for You (18)

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Hoka Gaviota 4

You'll look forward to slipping into these plush sneakers, whether for a long walk or a half-marathon run. They have the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA) Seal of Acceptance, which means they're podiatrist-approved and keep your feet locked into place while you rack up miles.

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7

New Balance 1540v3

Are You a Flat-Footed Runner? Then These Sneakers Are for You (19)

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New Balance 1540v3

Podiatrists love New Balance sneakers—as do we. This style, in particular, is one both walkers and runners will adore, featuring two layers of performance foam for optimal support and a soft rebound. It also utilizes ENCAP and Rollbar midsole technology for rear foot movement control, making it an all-around excellent stability sneaker option. It sure helps that the "dad sneaker" style is on-trend.

8

Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 38

Are You a Flat-Footed Runner? Then These Sneakers Are for You (20)

8

Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 38

Whether you're just starting your running journey or are a seasoned athlete, these lightweight sneakers will ensure you run your fastest with responsive foam, breathable foam, and a secure fit. Oh, and they come in a bunch of fun colorways.

9

Mizuno Wave Inspire 18 Running Shoe

Are You a Flat-Footed Runner? Then These Sneakers Are for You (21)

9

Mizuno Wave Inspire 18 Running Shoe

Those looking for a breathable design ought to study up on these colorful Mizunos. They have a durable Waveknit upper made of recycled PET mesh, an extra-grippy outsole that improves traction, and a double fan-shaped wave that addresses overpronation.

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10

Adidas Solar Control Running Shoe

Are You a Flat-Footed Runner? Then These Sneakers Are for You (22)

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Adidas Solar Control Running Shoe

Now 35% Off

This Adidas design is made in part with recycled materials. It features Boost cushioning to help you rebound quickly with every stride, plus an EVA compound in the heel for enhanced stability. It also comes in a black and white colorway if pink isn't your style.

11

Diadora Mythos Blueshield Vigore

Are You a Flat-Footed Runner? Then These Sneakers Are for You (23)

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Diadora Mythos Blueshield Vigore

This fashion-forward stability shoe combines various technologies to turn irregular strides into a balanced run. One is "CCB," a medial stabilizer to control torsional stability near the arch.

12

Altra Women's Provision 6

Are You a Flat-Footed Runner? Then These Sneakers Are for You (24)

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Altra Women's Provision 6

Altra's GuideRail technology "acts like a supportive highway guide rail," says the brand, encouraging natural foot placement by providing guidance. It also prides itself on its Balanced Cushioning platform that positions your heel and forefoot at an equal distance from the ground to encourage "better alignment and better form."

Are You a Flat-Footed Runner? Then These Sneakers Are for You (2024)

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