How Do I Select the Best Running Shoes for Flat Feet?

If your feet tire easily or you have achy arches and heels, back or leg pain and difficulty with certain foot movements, flat feet may be the culprit. This is a condition where the foot’s arches collapse, and most or all of your sole comes in contact with the ground. If you’re a runner, this can cause issues.

So what are the best running shoes for flat feet? Unfortunately, there’s no universal answer. When you choose shoes for flat feet, you need to consider multiple factors, such as your gait cycle, range of motion and individual foot. Hibbett | City Gear has running shoes from brands like Brooks, Nike and adidas to support your low arches for a more comfortable run.

Questions to Consider When Choosing Running Shoes for Flat Feet

While you’re searching for the best running shoes for flat feet, there are important things to consider before making your purchase. Here are some tips for choosing running shoes for flat feet:

How Do I Know If I’m Flat-Footed?

If your foot has low to no arches, you have flat feet. Try this simple test to find out:

• Lightly wet the bottom of your feet.
• Stamp your foot on a piece of cardboard.
• Look at the prints.

You have flat feet if you see the full imprint of your foot’s sole with no arch present.

Why Are Flat Feet a Problem?

Your foot’s arches are the body’s natural shock absorber. With each step, your body weight disperses throughout the sole of the foot in a way that eases impact on your knees, ankles, feet and hips. A foot structure compromised by low to no arches doesn’t adequately protect your body.

Flat-footed runners tend to twist their ankles inward and overcompensate with their knees after each step, and their feet are also apt to turn inward. Without the proper footwear to counteract the effects of flat feet, runners risk injury and can experience significant discomfort while running.

What Do I Need to Consider If I’m a Flat-Footed Runner?

Make sure you change out your running shoes as they age. A good rule of thumb is every 300 to 500 miles but err on the side of 300 miles if you have flat feet. You’ll want to choose shoes that offer durable, rigid support, especially in the arches, which helps ease pressure from upper body weight.

If I’m a Flat-Footed Runner, What Kind of Shoes Should I Look for?

Footwear brands have come a long way in developing advanced technologies to assist runners with flat feet and help them exercise in comfort and without injury. To combat issues related to fallen arches, runners with flat feet require optimized support systems built into their footwear. The two shoes specifically designed to help are stability shoes and motion control shoes. These options offer targeted solutions designed to minimize injuries and maximize comfort.

What Are Stability Shoes?

Stability shoes are designed with layers of polyurethane material in the arch to create more support and stability for runners. These shoes can limit or eliminate overpronation, or inward rolling, by reducing excess foot motion and improving biomechanical efficiency. Sleek and light, these shoes for flat feet deliver cushioning, support and durability to help runners pronate forward, not inward.

What Are Motion Control Shoes?

Motion control shoes are tailored to runners with extremely flat feet and significantly higher levels of overpronation. These shoes provide motion and stability control through advanced foam technology or padding material that supports the arch. Simply put, motion control shoes keep the foot in place and restrict overpronation as the runner makes contact with the ground. Keep in mind, though, the added support equals added weight.

What Are Some Other Things I Can Do for My Flat Feet?

Proper footwear isn’t the only way to mitigate the effects of flat feet. Avoid uneven running surfaces like golf courses or underdeveloped trails. While lush grass and soft soil sound appealing for aching ankles and knees, these surfaces can compound flat feet issues and cause even more damage.

So when you’re wondering, “What are the best running shoes for flat feet?” check out our selection in-stores or online at Hibbett | City Gear. We’ve got all your favorite brands, as well as all the gear to accompany your kicks.