Finding the right shoes for yourself is already a tough task, and if you are a flat footed runner, it automatically becomes a lot more difficult.

Not only is it super hard to find a shoe that your feet feel comfortable in, there is also a ton of misinformation on the topic. While the internet and your local shoe store will urge you to buy a shoe with more arch support and cushioning, many running experts will suggest the complete opposite.

So who do you trust?

Unfortunately, in the field of running, there is no one right answer. Whether or not a certain brand or design of shoe will work for you depends largely on you – your biomechanics, weight, running style etc. Luckily, there are a few features you can look for in running shoes that may make your low arches feel more comfortable.

But before you decide on a brand of running shoes for your flat feet, let’s take a look at some key concerns that flat footed runners have when buying running shoes.

Two kinds of flat feet

While some runners have anatomically flat feet, others have what’s known as collapsed arches, which are flat mostly because of muscle weaknesses. Though both of them look quite similar, the type of shoes each requires is quite different.

Runners with collapsed arches can, and should add arch support to their shoes until their feet get stronger and can support their own arches. However, with an anatomically flat foot, arch support can result in increased stress and knee injuries. This is why it is important to figure out what type of flat foot you have before deciding on a pair of shoes. If you can, visit a doctor, and take into account not just your foot, but your hips, knees, and running motion as well. Find out more about preventing pain while running here.

Overpronation and Arch Support

Flat footed runners tend to overpronate – that is when the foot rolls inwards upon landing. Until recently, running shoe companies generally steered overpronators toward stability shoes. However, we now know that stability features, or even arch support cannot correct the natural cycle of the foot. Many flat footed runners have naturally flexible feet that do not get rigid for the push off, and this is not something that you can solve with an arch.

Flat feet are just one aspect among many

The fact is, most running shoes do work for many different types of runners, but if a certain pair of shoes aren’t comfortable or cause you pain, you should look for a different pair. Many running stores today offer gait analysis, so go get your movement analyzed.

Once you know more about your feet and movement patterns, you’ll be better prepared to find the best pair of running shoes for you. But most importantly, if you are looking for good running shoes for flat feet, you should always take a test run before purchasing anything.

Best Running Shoes for Flat Feet

1. Brooks Dyad 11

Heavier runners and those with wide feet have long appreciated Brooks Dyad 11 for the roomy toe box which allows your feet to spread out and feel at home.

The Dyad 11s are also a good pair of running shoes for flat feet as they have a wider, more comfortable fit and a straighter last that allows for more on-ground contact through the midsole. The shoe also offers runners a ton of soft and durable, memory foam like cushioning and support.

Plus, the Dyad 11 also has a heel crash pad on the outsole that smoothen transitions and helps runners avoid injuries. No wonder so many injury prone and flat footed runners love and prefer Brooks Dyad 11.

2. Brooks Beast 20

Also called Brooks Ariel 20 (the female version), this is a shoe specially designed for comfort and softness. With a wide platform, extra midfoot support, superior stability features, and a straight last, Brooks Beast is one of the best running shoes for flat feet.

In the 20th version of the Beast running shoes, Brooks have added guide rails to the midsole to account for overpronation, while reducing the overall weight of the shoe.

So if you’re looking for something supportive and light weight, this is the shoe you want.

3. Saucony Echelon 8

Specially designed for runners with low arches and flat feet, the Saucony Echelon 8 is a gender neutral shoe with little arch support and a wider platform through the midsole and forefoot. Plus, the shoe also offers plush, lightweight cushioning and the durability you need to handle high volume training and long runs.

Its wider platform and straighter last also makes the Echelon 8 a good shoe for heavier runners and those who use orthotics, even though Saucony specially designed it as a good running shoe for flat feet.

4. Mizuno Wave Inspire 16

The Mizuno Wave Inspire is perhaps the best running shoe for flat feet. Not only does the shoe have a balanced cushioning effect all over, but also offers support for your feet if you overpronate.

The Inspire 16’s midsole features a dense, reshaped plate at the inner arch, which supports and prevents your feet from rolling inwards. This new midsole is also way more flexible than other shoes and offers great heel to toe support as well.

5. New Balance Fresh Foam 860v11

Well loved for their cushioning and support, the New Balance Fresh Foam 860v11 is the shoe you want if you are looking for stability.

With a generously sized heel, tons of support and cushioning at the midsole, and a dual density medial post which aligns your stride and offsets overpronation, the 860v11 is perhaps the most supportive shoe in the market right now. Plus, New Balance’s Fresh Foam cushioning makes the shoe lighter, softer and bouncier.

6. Asics Gel Kayano Lite

Lighter by a full ounce, the latest version of Asics Kayano is a great brand of running shoes for flat footed runners.

With a dual density midsole, and firm foam through the arch, Kayano was especially designed for overpronators and flat feet, but is also preferred by many high-mileage neutral runners as well. The Kayano Lite features a ton of stability features, including a padded tongue, engineered mesh upper, wider platform and a heel counter, making it a good choice for injured runners and flat footed people alike.

7. Asics GT-4000

Also described as its flat foot hero by Asics, the GT-4000 is something of a cult favorite among low arched runners.

Though the shoe doesn’t pack a lot of flash and style, GT-4000 has everything that counts. The midsole packs a ton of support and durability, combined with firm cushioning and mild stability features that keep your gait consistent. Compared to other Asics shoes, GT-4000 also sits on a much straighter last, with a more spacious toe box and a broader base.

8. Hoka One One Arahi 5

The Hoka Arahi 5 is proof that stability running shoes can be lightweight and responsive and provide their user with tons of comfort and cushioning too.

Featuring an open construction and roomy forefoot section, the Arahi 5 is a specialized running shoe for runners with flat and wider feet, and works well for heavier runners as well.