Best Running Shoes for Flat Feet of 2024 | Marathon Sports (2024)

Flat feet, a condition affecting nearly 20-30% of the global population as per North Texas Podiatry Associates, often lead to unique challenges for runners.

However, a well-chosen pair of running shoes for flat feet can be a game-changer. Identifying the best running shoes can be tough, but we’ve simplified the task for you.

Our team, composed of passionate runners with flat feet, carried out extensive research and tests on the best running shoes for flat feet from the industry’s leading brands. They’ve curated this guide, offering a comprehensive insight into the finest running shoes for flat feet available in 2024.

What Are Running Shoes for Flat Feet?

Runners with flat feet may experience discomfort or injury when running with shoes lacking proper arch support and cushioning. That’s because feet with low or collapsed arches do not have the same shock absorption that those with typical arches do, causing the feet, legs, and joints to take a beating.

The good news is that a well-fitted and supportive running shoes can greatly enhance your running experience, improving comfort and safety. Like traditional running shoes, they come in various styles, including those with maximum cushioning, trail running shoes, stabilizing shoes, and more. Below, you’ll find the 10 running shoes for flat feet that our reviewers agreed are the best available for 2024.

Our Review Process

Our reviewers are members of our Marathon Sports team. They train regularly and understand all that goes into a great running shoe, including cushioning, fit, durability, support, and more.

We put our runners with flat feet in charge of this review, as they’re the ones who best understand the challenges of a running shoe that doesn’t offer the support they need.

The 7 Best Running Shoes for Flat Feet

The following are the top 7 shoes our reviewers found that offer the necessary support and comfort for runners with flat feet. The list incorporates a diverse selection of the best cushioned running shoes, stability running shoes, trail runners, long-distance running shoes, and more, aiding you in finding the best pair for your unique running style and goals.

• HOKA Arahi 7
• Saucony Guide 17
• Brooks Glycerin GTS 21
• ASICS GT-2000 v12
• New Balance Fresh Foam 860 v14
• On Cloudflyer 4
• Mizuno Wave Inspire 20

HOKA Arahi 7

The HOKA Arahi 7 is a sleek running shoe designed to provide stability to runners with flat feet. This version of the Arahi has been redesigned with a zonal, flat knit upper that locks down the midfoot. The J-Frame™ technology gives you arch support to prevent overpronation and promotes better running or walking form. The tongue has also been redesigned to be more plush. An elastic dual gusset underneath the lace line keeps the tongue in place when you’re on longer runs.

The American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA) gave the HOKA Arahi 7 its Seal of Acceptance as a shoe that’s proven to promote foot health in runners with flat feet. The compression-molded EVA midsole combined with the J-Frame™ support provides a great level of comfort and spring for anyone who is flatfooted.

Saucony Guide 17

The Saucony Guide 17 makes the list this year because of its extreme cushioning for arch support. Using Saucony’s CenterPath Technology, the shoe is designed with a wider platform, higher sidewalls, and an asymmetric profile. These features help to wrap the shoe around your foot while providing excellent stability that guards against overpronation.

The shoe utilizes the older PWRRUN midsole from the previous iteration, with an upgraded PWRRUN+ sockliner. This setup fits easily on your feet and provides great comfort on your daily run. The sleek design of the exterior makes the shoe a good choice for everyday wear or workouts. Like all Saucony products, the Guide 17 is crafted from vegan and recycled materials.

Brooks Glycerin GTS 21

The Brooks Glycerin GTS 21 is a highly cushioned road shoe that works well for runners with flat feet. Compared to the Glycerin 20, this version has an extra 2mm of nitrogen-infused DNA LOFT v3 cushioning in the midsole. This provides much-needed arch support to keep a runner comfortably in their stride.

The shoe’s upper has also been upgraded with an engineered warp knit. This breathable upper keeps the shoe snug against your foot while also providing enough flexibility for smooth motion. The GuideRails® technology provides extra support on the outer edge of the foot, which is another reason why this shoe works well for those who overpronate. This is an extremely soft shoe, which Brooks is known for, but the Glycerin GTS 21 also offers extra comfort and support.

ASICS GT-2000 v12

The ASICS GT-2000 v12 features the brand’s LITETRUSS™ system to provide extra support for those with flexible arches and overpronation. It prevents excess movement without overcorrecting the pronation and causing pain or damage.

Our reviewers felt that the LITETRUSS™ system, and FF Blast cushioning result in a comfortable, energetic running experience. New is the jacquard mesh upper that creates a breathable feel and custom-like fit.

The stability, cushioning, and smooth ride made this one of our top running shoes for flat feet.

New Balance Fresh Foam 860 v14

The New Balance Fresh Foam X 860 v14 is an excellent choice for those with flat feet, offering exceptional stability and comfort for daily runs or walks. This popular stability shoe now includes additional Fresh Foam X midsole cushioning, ensuring softer landings and greater comfort over longer distances.

One of the standout features of the 860 v14 is its new Stability Plane technology in the midsole. This innovation provides a wider platform with integrated sidewalls, creating a guidance frame that supports your stride without restricting it. The shoe also incorporates 3% bio-based Fresh Foam X, combining a softer, more responsive top layer with a durable and supportive bottom layer for a balanced, long-lasting running experience.

The upper of the 860 v14 is made from a supportive synthetic material, offering both breathability and a secure fit. In a move towards sustainability, New Balance has partnered with Repreve to use materials made from recycled bottles. Additionally, the blown rubber outsole delivers excellent traction while keeping the shoe lightweight.

Overall, the 860 v14 is a versatile trainer, perfect for runners with flat feet who need extra support.

On Cloudflyer 4

Our reviewing team has a particular fondness for On Running’s CloudTec technology, appreciated for its ability to impart springy take-offs and gentle landings. These soft landings are especially important for runners with flat feet, and the Cloudflyer 4 offers larger “Clouds” with dual-density foam to offer superior stability and support.

The Cloudflyer 4 sets itself apart with a distinctive star-lacing design, an outer heel counter, and a contoured footbed, all aimed at enhancing comfort and stability for flat-footed runners. Furthermore, the shoe’s Speedboard promotes a natural rolling motion for seamless transitions and superior responsiveness.

The Cloudflyer 4 is a technical running shoe proving runners with flat feet don’t have to miss out on the industry’s latest technologies.

Mizuno Wave Inspire 20

Our running team gives consistently high marks to the Mizuon Wave Inspire and version 20 earned its place on the list this year. This stability trainer has a new jacquard air mesh upper made from mostly recycled materials. The new design offers plenty of breathability to keep your feet cooled off on that daily run. The X10 outsole is designed for durability and helps to extend the lifespan of the shoe.

They increased the amount of MIZUNO ENERZY foam for this version of the shoe, which is why it makes the list of the best shoes for flat feet. It provides a lot of impact protection for the bottoms of the feet. It has lots of cushioning for the arches but also provides great energy return. The Mizuno Wave Inspire 20 has a 12mm offset from the heel to the toe, so you will want to stick to using this shoe as a trainer rather than a race shoe.

Find Your Perfect Fit

Let our experts guide you in locating the most suitable running shoe tailored to your unique foot shape, pronation, gait, and running style. We understand the importance of a robust support system and technical features in helping you remain comfortable and safe while you strive to achieve your running goals.

Run stronger, run longer. Shop our entire selection of running shoes for flat feet, wide feet, and more, all available online or at our Marathon Sports locations. Choose the perfect fit for you and begin your path toward a better run today!