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We Researched and Tested the 12 Best Walking Shoes for Flat Feet

Expert-approved picks from Brooks, Asics, New Balance, and more

A person wears Dansko Women's Pace Walking Shoes on a paved surface

Verywell Fit / Diana Weesner

If you have flat feet, wearing supportive shoes can help prevent the aches and fatigue that can come after a long day of walking or standing. The best walking shoes for flat feet have a wide toe box and excellent support in the midfoot to prevent your arch from collapsing further, says podiatrist Nelya Lobkova, DPM. They also have a stiff heel counter (a built-in cup in the shoe’s heel that prevents it from slipping off of your foot) and plenty of traction for additional stability.

To find the top walking shoes for flat feet, we first consult podiatrists and other experts to learn which key features every pair should have. We’ve spent weeks testing 95 expert-approved shoes in the real world, paying particular attention to their construction and arch support. In some cases, we have two people test the shoes to get a better idea of how they fit and feel on different foot types. Our favorite pairs excelled in fit, comfort, stability, cushioning, and overall value. For accuracy and additional guidance, we also spoke with podiatrist Diana Valencia, DPM, and had a walking coach and RRCA-certified running coach from our Review Board review this story.

Best Men's Overall

Brooks Adrenaline GTS 23

Brooks Men’s Adrenaline GTS 23 Running Shoe

Zappos

Pros
  • APMA Seal of Acceptance

  • Thin, breathable upper

  • Built-in support system

Cons
  • May not be warm enough for cold weather

Key Specs

Materials: Mesh upper, nylon lining, foam footbed and midsole, rubber outsole | Weight: 10.1 ounces | Drop: 12 millimeters | Cushioning: Moderate

Who They’re For

Best if you enjoy the run/walk method or don’t want to buy separate sneakers for fitness walks and runs. 

Why We Love Them

Due to its great fit, plush feel, and outstanding support, Brooks’ Adrenaline GTS 23 Running Shoe is one of our favorite sneakers for walkers with flat feet. It offers structure and stability in a sturdy shoe that’s designed for all-day wear. But we’re not the only fans of this sneaker: It has also earned the American Podiatric Medical Association’s (APMA) Seal of Acceptance, meaning a group of podiatrists has determined that the Adrenaline GTS 23 helps promote good foot health. 

When we tested the women's version of this sneaker, we thought it had the ideal amount of cushioning—not too soft, not too firm. As we walked, we noticed that the footbeds felt responsive and helped push us forward. Plus, it minimized shock during impact, effectively protecting our ankles and knees. 

Both sneakers come with Brooks’ GuideRails support system, which features firm, strategically placed cushioning to help minimize excess movement and promote your natural gait. They also have thin mesh uppers that allow air to circulate while remaining soft and flexible. 

Also available in women’s sizes at Amazon, Dick’s Sporting Goods, and Brooks

Potential Flaws

  • We like that the Adrenaline GTS 23’s light mesh upper is breathable—but it may not be protective enough for walking in cold weather

Best Women's Overall

Dansko Pace Walking Shoe

Dansko Women's Pace Walking Shoe

Amazon

Our Ratings
  • Cushioning
    5/5
  • Stability
    5/5
  • Fit
    5/5
  • Value
    4.5/5
  • Comfort
    5/5
Pros
  • APMA Seal of Acceptance

  • Anti-odor technology

  • Stain-resistant upper

Cons
  • Only one small reflective detail

Key Specs

Materials: Recycled mesh upper, textile lining, foam footbed and midsole, rubber outsole | Weight: 10 ounces | Drop: Not listed | Cushioning: Soft but responsive | Our Overall Rating: 5/5

Who They’re For

Best for walkers who want a supportive shoe without sacrificing style. 

Why We Love Them

Our other top overall pick, Dansko’s Pace Walking Shoe, stands out for its midsole that offered stellar comfort, support, and shock absorption during testing. The cushioned heel cup hugged our rearfoot for a snug, locked-in feel. We were also impressed with the outsole’s grippy traction, which helped us stay steady while walking across a variety of surfaces. 

Despite its ample support and padding, this shoe never weighed us down—it always feels easy to walk in. The curved sole helps guide our feet along smoothly. By the end of the test, we were pleasantly surprised that we could wear this stylish pair all day long with no pain or discomfort. Plus, the shoe’s breathable mesh upper and anti-odor technology kept our feet feeling cool, fresh, and dry.

Like some of our other picks, the Pace has received the APMA's Seal of Acceptance, so you can be confident it’s designed with relief in mind. We also like that it’s available in two widths to help you find the right fit—and that the recycled mesh upper is stain-resistant, to keep these looking like new longer. Choose from a range of neutral tones that will fit right into almost any wardrobe. 

Potential Flaws

  • We noticed that there’s only one small reflective strip on the back of this sneaker’s heel. We wish there were more reflective details for walking safely at night.

Best Budget

Rykä Devotion X

Rykä Devotion X Walking Shoe

Amazon

Our Ratings
  • Cushioning
    4.8/5
  • Stability
    5/5
  • Fit
    4.9/5
  • Value
    4.8/5
  • Comfort
    5/5
Pros
  • APMA Seal of Acceptance

  • Excellent arch support

  • Durable

Cons
  • May be too roomy for narrow feet

Key Specs

Materials: Mesh upper, foam midsole, rubber outsole | Weight: 8.7 ounces | Drop: 10 millimeters | Cushioning: Moderate | Our Overall Rating: 4.9/5

Who They’re For

Best if you have wide feet and prefer firmer cushioning.

Why We Love Them

Rykä’s Devotion X Walking Shoe proved to be the best walking shoe we tested that's both flat feet- and budget-friendly. When we first stepped into these sneakers, we were impressed by how secure and durable they felt. This APMA-approved pair features a well-cushioned midsole, which we found to be thick and protective, but not too squishy. We also noticed that the shoes had the ideal amount of arch support for flat feet—enough that we felt a difference, but not so much that our feet started to cramp. 

During test walks, the Devotion X provided reliable shock absorption and comfort from start to finish. We also like the durable, grippy rubber outsole that provides additional stability. And the shoe’s wide toe box combined with the soft mesh upper helped us avoid chafing and blisters. By the end of the testing period, these shoes held up remarkably well and we found ourselves consistently reaching for this comfy, supportive pair.

Potential Flaws

  • While these sneakers rival the support and comfort of much higher-priced ones, we did notice that they felt wider than others we tested—especially in the toe box. If you have narrow feet, the Devotion X may be too roomy for you. 

Best Lightweight

Saucony Guide 16

Saucony Women's Guide 16 Sneaker

Amazon

Pros
  • Deep footbed

  • Smooth transitions

  • Medial posts prevent overpronation

Cons
  • May be too narrow for some

Key Specs

Materials: Mesh upper, foam midsole, rubber outsole | Weight: 8.4 ounces | Drop: 8 millimeters | Cushioning: Moderate

Who They’re For

Best for people who need a highly supportive shoe for daily walks that doesn’t feel too heavy or bulky. 

Why We Love Them

If you prefer a lightweight walking shoe, Saucony’s Guide 16 Sneaker has you covered. It features firm medial posts to prevent flat feet from overpronating, or rolling too far inward. Although we haven't tested this sneaker, we've tested the previous version (the Guide 15). We immediately noticed its supportive fit and soft, responsive cushioning. Both sneakers also have breathable, lightweight uppers that mold to the shape of your feet for a custom-like fit. 

Grooves in the Guide 16’s outsole keep the forefoot flexible, allowing for smooth, comfortable transitions as you walk. We also love that this pair features a deep footbed that offers support from all angles, not just from the bottom. Weighing in at just 8.4 ounces, these airy sneakers were made for everyday laps around the neighborhood. 

Also available in men’s sizes at Amazon, Dick’s Sporting Goods, and Saucony.

Potential Flaws

  • Some wearers note that the Guide 16 feels more narrow than previous versions, but we like that it comes in two widths if you need some extra room in the toe box. 

Best for Bad Knees

Nike Motiva Walking Shoes

Nike Motiva Women's Walking Shoes

Nike

Our Ratings
  • Cushioning
    4.8/5
  • Stability
    5/5
  • Fit
    5/5
  • Value
    5/5
  • Comfort
    5/5
Pros
  • Thick, plush cushioning

  • Absorbs shock well

  • Rocker shape propels you forward

Cons
  • Curved sole takes time to get used to

  • Collar is a bit stiff

Key Specs

Materials: Mesh upper, foam midsole, rubber outsole | Weight: 8.9 ounces | Drop: 12 millimeters | Cushioning: Maximum | Our Overall Rating: 5/5 

Who They’re For

Best for walkers with sensitive knees who want a shoe that will help them get moving. 

Why We Love Them

Nike’s Motiva Walking Shoe is designed specifically for walking, and its plush but responsive cushioning offers great protection for walkers with knee pain. This pair features a thick midsole that we found delivers impressive stability with each step in testing. It also provides excellent arch support and is designed to maximize shock absorption to help combat joint pain.

During test walks, we appreciated the shoe’s curved outsole, which propelled us forward with a subtle rocking motion. The outsole’s thick, wavy design adds to the sneaker’s luxurious feel. A soft, breathable upper and roomy toe box ensure our feet never feel cramped or overheated. 

Also available in men’s sizes at Nike.

Potential Flaws

  • We realized that the shoe’s exaggerated rocker shape takes some getting used to. But after the first few wears, we quickly grew accustomed to how the shoe drove us forward. 
  • While we liked the overall fit of the shoe, we noticed that the collar felt a bit stiff at first.

Best Cushioning

Asics Gel-Nimbus 25

Our Ratings
  • Cushioning
    5/5
  • Stability
    4.5/5
  • Fit
    5/5
  • Value
    4.5/5
  • Comfort
    5/5
Pros
  • Two types of cushioning

  • Deep heel cup

  • Reflective details

Cons
  • Pricier than other options

Key Specs

Materials: Knit upper, gel and foam midsole, rubber outsole | Weight: 8.9 ounces | Drop: 8 millimeters | Cushioning: Maximum | Our Overall Rating: 4.8/5

Who They’re For

Best for underpronators looking to invest in a soft, reliable shoe for daily walks and occasional runs. 

Why We Love Them

For a walking shoe that’s packed with soft cushioning, we recommend Asics’ Gel-Nimbus 25 Running Shoes. They have foam and gel padding in the midsole for exceptional support, comfort, and shock absorption. When testing this pair, we felt nimble and light on our feet, thanks to these sneakers' effective impact protection and responsive footbed. The tongue and collar are also generously padded to help prevent blisters or other irritation. 

As we walked, we noticed that this pair’s built-in arch support helped relieve pressure on our feet, while the deep heel cup kept us securely locked in. The Gel-Nimbus 25 also provided plenty of room for us to wiggle our toes in the wide, tall toe box. These also have reflective details for walking in low-light conditions. As an added bonus, they feature convenient heel pull tabs that make them easy to slip on and off.

Also available in men’s sizes at Amazon, Dick’s Sporting Goods, and Asics.

Potential Flaws

  • The Gel-Nimbus 23 is one of the pricier pairs on our list. However, we think they’re worth the additional cost if you underpronate (meaning your feet roll outward) and need a soft sneaker that’s easy to wear.

Best for Motion Control

Mizuno Wave Inspire 19

Our Ratings
  • Cushioning
    5/5
  • Stability
    4.5/5
  • Fit
    4/5
  • Value
    5/5
  • Comfort
    4.7/5
Pros
  • Great stability

  • Wide toe box

  • Heel cushioning helps combat plantar fasciitis

Cons
  • May run small

  • Heavy

Key Specs

Materials: Textile and synthetic upper, textile lining, textile and synthetic footbed, synthetic midsole, synthetic outsole | Weight: 10.7 ounces | Drop: 12 millimeters | Cushioning: Soft and responsive | Our Overall Rating: 4.7/5

Who They’re For

Best for severe overpronators who need a walking shoe that can double as a running sneaker. 

Why We Love Them

Motion control shoes have additional design elements that make them highly supportive, like medial posts or guide rails. Best for people with flat feet who also overpronate, they help prevent your feet from rolling inward while you walk. One of our favorite pairs of motion control shoes is Mizuno’s Wave Inspire 19 Running Shoe because they felt extremely stable underfoot during testing, even on grass and paved trails.

The cushioning is soft, yet very responsive, pushing us forward to the next step. And we like that the combination of a wide toe box and snug, supportive heel cup keeps our feet comfortably in place. With exceptional shock absorption, the Wave Inspire 19 can also be worn for running or other high-impact activities. Also important: These sneakers have ample padding in the heel area, making them a solid option for those with plantar fasciitis.

Also available in men’s sizes at Amazon, Zappos, and Mizuno

Potential Flaws

  • In testing, we found that the Wave Inspire 19 runs small. When we went up a half size, we liked how roomy the toe box was. 
  • This is one of the heaviest shoes on our list, due to the additional padding and motion control features.

Best for Wide Flat Feet

Orthofeet Coral Stretch Knit Shoe

Orthofeet Women's Coral Stretch Knit Shoe

Amazon

Our Ratings
  • Cushioning
    5/5
  • Stability
    5/5
  • Fit
    5/5
  • Value
    5/5
  • Comfort
    5/5
Pros
  • APMA Seal of Acceptance

  • Excellent arch support

  • Comes with additional orthotics and insoles

Cons
  • May squeak while walking

Key Specs

Materials: Knit upper, fabric lining, foam midsole, rubber outsole | Weight: 9.5 ounces | Drop: Not listed | Cushioning: Moderate | Our Overall Rating: 5/5

Who They’re For

Best for people who prefer firm arch support, especially if you haven’t had luck finding comfortable sneakers in the past. 

Why We Love Them

If you have flat and wide feet, it’s especially important that you find a supportive, comfortable walking shoe that has plenty of room in the toe box. We recommend Orthofeet’s Coral Stretch Knit, which offers a spacious fit and reliable support that set it apart from others we’ve tested. During test walks, the shoe’s arch support felt firm and very comfortable, and the secure heel cup kept our feet locked in place. 

Another APMA Seal of Acceptance winner, the Coral features a curved bottom, allowing for smooth, easy strides. We also love that the shoe comes with two removable insoles and an additional arch orthotic so you can customize the level of support and cushioning. Given the shoe’s ample support, we were afraid it might be too bulky, but it felt lightweight even after long periods of wear.

Potential Flaws

  • Some wearers have noticed that these shoes squeak while walking, although it’s worth noting that we didn’t hear anything during testing. 
Orthofeet Women's Coral Stretch Knit Shoes with Orthofeet insoles and orthotics on a carpet

Verywell Fit / Gabrielle Renslow

Best for Overpronators

Asics Gel-Kayano 30

Asics Men's Gel-Kayano 30 Running Shoes

Zappos

Our Ratings
  • Fit
    4.6/5
  • Cushioning/Knee Protection
    4.7/5
  • Comfort
    4.5/5
  • Stability
    4/5
  • Value
    4.8/5
Pros
  • Great shock absorption

  • Excellent support and stability

  • Two types of cushioning

Cons
  • May be too bulky for some

  • Pricier than other options

Key Specs

Materials: Knit upper, foam and gel midsole, rubber outsole | Weight: 9.3 ounces | Drop: 10 millimeters | Cushioning: Maximum

Who They’re For

Best for overpronators, especially if you have shin splints, heel spurs, or bunions

Why We Love Them

If you have flat feet, you probably also overpronate, meaning your ankles tend to roll inward when you walk or run. To gently realign your feet, we suggest wearing Asics’ Gel-Kayano 30 Running Shoes. They feature the brand’s 4D Guidance System, which uses a medial foam unit and a wide base to stabilize your feet. This pair also has plenty of arch support, as well as a durable rubber sole with excellent traction. 

During testing, we loved how the Kayano fit—snug, yet comfortable as soon as our feet hit the ground. Reliable stability combined with plush foam and gel cushioning makes these shoes a great option for spending hours walking and standing on pavement. Additional padding underneath the heel helps minimize shock during impact. With a breathable upper, the Kayano also keeps feet dry and comfortable on warmer days.

Also available in men’s sizes at Amazon and Asics

Potential Flaws

  • While the thick cushioning offers exceptional comfort and impact protection, it can feel too bulky and chunky for some.
  • These shoes are one of our pricier picks, although we think they’re worth the investment for overpronators due to their durable design. 

Best for Plantar Fasciitis

Kizik Roamer

Kizik Women's Roamer Hands-Free Shoe

Kizik

Our Ratings
  • Cushioning
    4.5/5
  • Stability
    4.8/5
  • Fit
    4.9/5
  • Value
    4.8/5
  • Comfort
    4.8/5
Pros
  • Easy to slip on and off

  • Snug, supportive fit

  • Responsive cushioning

Cons
  • Outsole may catch on some surfaces

Key Specs

Materials: Knit upper, foam midsole, rubber outsole | Weight: Not listed | Drop: Not listed | Cushioning: Soft but responsive | Our Overall Rating: 4.8/5 

Who They’re For

Best for walkers who like slip-on shoes, but still need a pair that’s supportive enough to help relieve and prevent plantar fasciitis symptoms. 

Why We Love Them

If you’re flat-footed and prone to plantar fasciitis, Kizik’s Roamer is our top pick. It has excellent support and padding, especially in the heel, to help ease foot pain and prevent future flare-ups. During testing, we immediately noticed the pair’s cloud-like cushioning. It felt plush and responsive, providing good shock absorption—another crucial feature for combatting plantar fasciitis. We were also impressed with how the shoe fit, with a four-way stretch upper that felt snug but comfortable.

Despite its extra thick cushioning, the Roamer didn’t cause our feet to overheat when walking in hot weather, thanks to its breathable construction. Plus, the toe box felt spacious, making this sneaker a nice choice for walkers prone to blisters and bunions. And if constantly untangling laces makes you crazy, you’ll appreciate the Roamer’s convenient step-in design that allows you to easily get them on and off, hands-free.

Also available in men’s sizes at Kizik.

Potential Flaws

  • We love that the rubber outsole is durable and supportive, but we noticed that it can catch on certain surfaces.

Best for Long Walks

Hoka Arahi 6

Hoka Women's Arahi 6 Running Shoe

Hoka

Our Ratings
  • Fit
    4.5/5
  • Cushioning/Knee Protection
    5/5
  • Comfort
    4.5/5
  • Stability
    4/5
  • Value
    5/5
Pros
  • APMA Seal of Acceptance

  • Lightweight

  • Excellent shock absorption

Cons
  • Not as responsive

  • Lower heel-to-toe drop

Key Specs

Materials: Mesh upper, foam midsole, rubber outsole | Weight: 7.6 ounces | Drop: 5 millimeters | Cushioning: Maximum | Our Overall Rating: 4.7/5

Who They’re For

Best for people who spend a lot of time on their feet, whether for work or for leisure. 

Why We Love Them

Hoka’s Arahi 6 is super comfortable, making it our top pick for extended wear. Weighing under 8 ounces, this shoe is remarkably lightweight without compromising stability and support. The Arahi 6 features Hoka’s J-Frame stability technology, which means that the structure of the shoe works with your natural stride to stabilize your feet without overcorrecting your gait. During testing, we also noticed that the shoe’s rocker sole promotes smooth transitions as we walked.

The Arahi’s ample cushioning offers reliable shock absorption, preventing achy joints during and after our test walks. And the soft, breathable material kept our feet from overheating or developing blisters, which we appreciated on lengthier treks. By the end of the testing period, we were seriously impressed by the shoe’s wide toe box, extended heel pull tab, and reliable traction. Plus, like other sneakers on our list, the Arahi 6 has also been awarded the APMA Seal of Acceptance for its thoughtful design.

Also available in men’s sizes at Dick’s Sporting Goods, REI, and Hoka.

Potential Flaws

  • Although the cushioning felt plush and supportive, we noticed that this sneaker isn’t as responsive as others we’ve tested.
  • The Arahi 6 has a lower heel-to-toe drop than is typically recommended for walkers with flat feet. However, we think its other features still make it a worthy contender—just consider trying it on in-store before buying. 
Person wearing Hoka Women's Arahi 6 Running Shoes while standing on a wood floor

Verywell Fit / Abigail Moore

Best for All-Day Wear

New Balance Fresh Foam X 880v13

New Balance Women's Fresh Foam X 880v13

New Balance

Pros
  • Excellent arch support

  • Comes in four widths

  • Sleek, modern design

Cons
  • May run small

Key Specs

Materials: Engineered mesh upper, foam midsole, synthetic outsole | Weight: 8.4 ounces | Drop: 10 millimeters | Cushioning: Soft and supportive | Our Overall Rating: 4.9/5

Who They’re For

Best for people who wear their favorite sneakers everywhere.

Why We Love Them

Looking for one pair of sneakers that can do it all? We recommend New Balance’s Fresh Foam X 880v13 Running Shoe. When testing this pair, the ample arch support and soft cushioning kept us feeling comfortable and pain-free, even after walking around all day long. During brisk walks, we noticed that the full-length foam midsole provided a natural bounce and absorbed shock well. The heel counter also hugged our rearfoot for additional stability. 

We also love that the 880v13 is available in four widths ranging from narrow to extra-wide, making it a smart choice for those who have trouble finding the right fit. The engineered mesh upper is light and flexible, with strategic perforations to promote airflow so your feet stay cool and odor-free. And if you need a shoe for all outfits and occasions, we like that this one has a sleek, modern design that pairs nicely with everything from your favorite lululemon leggings to casual attire. 

Also available in men’s sizes at Amazon, Zappos, and New Balance

Potential Flaws

  • We found these shoes to be true to size during testing, but other wearers have opted to go up a half size to get a more accurate fit.

Compare

Brooks Men’s Adrenaline GTS 23 Running Shoe
Best Men's Overall:
Brooks Adrenaline GTS 23
Dansko Women's Pace Walking Shoe
Best Women's Overall:
Dansko Pace Walking Shoe
Rykä Devotion X Walking Shoe
Best Budget:
Rykä Devotion X
Saucony Women's Guide 16 Sneaker
Best Lightweight:
Saucony Guide 16
Nike Motiva Women's Walking Shoes
Best for Bad Knees:
Nike Motiva Walking Shoes
Best Cushioning:
Asics Gel-Nimbus 25
Best for Motion Control:
Mizuno Wave Inspire 19
Orthofeet Women's Coral Stretch Knit Shoe
Best for Wide Flat Feet:
Orthofeet Coral Stretch Knit Shoe
Asics Men's Gel-Kayano 30 Running Shoes
Best for Overpronators:
Asics Gel-Kayano 30
Kizik Women's Roamer Hands-Free Shoe
Best for Plantar Fasciitis:
Kizik Roamer
Hoka Women's Arahi 6 Running Shoe
Best for Long Walks:
Hoka Arahi 6
New Balance Women's Fresh Foam X 880v13
Best for All-Day Wear:
New Balance Fresh Foam X 880v13

Walking Shoes for Flat Feet We Also Tested

We’ve tested 95 walking shoes, but they couldn’t all make our final list of recommendations. These pairs performed well in some areas, but ultimately didn’t stack up against our top picks: 

  • We like that Rykä’s Sky Walking Shoe is budget-friendly and felt stable during testing. But we found that these sneakers didn’t absorb enough shock during testing—on long walks, we noticed that our feet and ankles quickly became fatigued. 
  • Hoka’s Rocket X 2 is lightweight and fit us well. However, the shoes aren’t very stable or cushioned, and we noticed that they seemed designed solely for running (unlike many other picks on our list).

Where We Stand

After testing 95 pairs of walking shoes, Brooks’ Adrenaline GTS 23 and Dansko’s Pace are our top overall picks for flat feet, thanks to their reliable stability, supportive cushioning, and comfortable fit. We continue to test all of these shoes at home and we’ll update our recommendations if we notice anything new or noteworthy.

What to Look for When Shopping for Walking Shoes for Flat Feet

  • Stability: Look for stability shoes that are designed with extra support in the midfoot to help reduce overpronation, says Dr. Lobkova. Your walking shoes should be rigid—check that they’re difficult to bend or twist in the middle before buying.
  • Toe Box: Flat feet benefit from wider walking shoes, especially shoes with a wide toe box like Orthofeet’s Coral Stretch Knit Sneakers. These pairs give your toes enough room to spread out, which can help prevent pain, blisters, bunions, hammertoes, and other common foot issues.
  • Cushioning: Having fallen arches means you put more strain on your feet while walking and standing for long periods of time. We recommend wearing shoes with plush, supportive cushioning to reduce fatigue. Make sure your walking shoes have plenty of padding in the midsole, especially underneath your heels—Asics’ Gel-Nimbus 25 is our favorite.
  • Traction: Shoes with solid traction will help you maintain your balance when walking, especially outside on uneven terrain or in the rain. Look for walking shoes with rubber outsoles and textured tread patterns that offer reliable grip.
  • Drop: A shoe’s heel-to-toe drop refers to the difference between the height of the shoe at the heel and at the forefoot. It’s often measured in millimeters. A shoe’s drop is more important for runners, but it’s still a consideration for walkers because it can affect your stride. Shoes with heel-to-toe drops of eight or more millimeters are usually better for flat feet, since they will ease pressure on your calf muscles and Achilles tendons. Pairs with high drops also tend to have well-cushioned heels—ideal for flat-footed heel strikers. Our top overall pick, Brooks’ Adrenaline GTS 23, has a drop of 12 millimeters to help take the pressure off while you walk.
  • Arch Support: Shop for shoes with supportive insoles, to help support your arches and prevent your feet from flattening even further, says podiatrist Damian Roussel, DPM, FACFAS. A heavy, sturdy outsole can also help support your arch from the outside.

How We Selected and Tested Walking Shoes for Flat Feet

To develop our list of the best walking shoes for flat feet, we tested 95 pairs of shoes from popular, trusted brands. Sometimes, we have two people test a shoe so we can see what kind of walker will benefit from wearing it the most. Throughout testing, we assess each shoe based on the following attributes: 

  • Fit: When we first try each shoe on, we check to make sure it fits correctly. Are the shoes snug and secure enough in the heel, or do our feet shift and slide as we walk? We also determine if the shoes run true to size based on the manufacturer’s specifications.
  • Cushioning: During test walks, we note whether the cushioning feels plush or firm. We also evaluate whether the shoe feels more cushioned in one area, such as the heel or arch. If there’s any additional padding in the tongue or collar, we note that, too. How does the shoe’s cushioning affect how it feels underfoot? 
  • Comfort: As testing continues, we note whether the shoes feel lightweight and comfortable or heavy and awkward to wear. We prioritize shoes made from soft, breathable materials that don’t cause rubbing or irritation. After wearing the sneakers for eight hours straight, we check in on how our feet are feeling. Do we notice any pain, pressure, or irritation? Did our feet get hot or sweaty? 
  • Responsiveness: A responsive shoe has springy cushioning that propels us forward into the next step as we walk. How does the midsole feel as we push off and land? 
  • Stability: As we walk on different types of surfaces like wood floors, carpet, sidewalks, pavement, and grass, we assess how stable the shoes feel. We also note whether our arches and ankles feel supported and if the shoe seems firm and sturdy or flimsy and flexible.
  • Value: To accurately assign each shoe an overall value score, we wait to check the price until the end of the testing period after we’ve rated it in all other categories. Based on how the shoes performed, do we think the price accurately reflects their value? Would we pay the full price for these sneakers, or would we wait until they go on sale?

Our Experts

Advice from experts helps guide us at every stage of our research and reporting. Some, like Valencia, helped us come up with effective ways to test these shoes. Others shared information on which features to look for in a sneaker when you have flat feet. We select products independently, but we use expert input to influence our choices.

  • Nelya Lobkova, DPM, an American Board of Podiatric Medicine (ABPM)-certified surgical podiatrist based in New York
  • Clifford L. Jeng, MD, FAAOS, an orthopedic surgeon at The Institute for Foot and Ankle Reconstruction in Baltimore
  • Damian Roussel, DPM, FACFAS, a podiatric surgeon at the Centers for Advanced Orthopaedics in Frederick, Maryland
  • Diana Valencia, DPM, a podiatrist at NYC Foot and Ankle Center in New York City

Frequently Asked Questions

How can you tell if you have flat feet?

One easy way to determine whether you have flat feet is to wet your feet and then stand on a piece of cardboard, paper, or any flat surface that will show your footprint. If you can see the shape of your whole foot rather than a shape that narrows at the arch, then you likely have flat feet.

Do people with flat feet need stability shoes?

Most people with flat feet will benefit from wearing stability shoes since they have wider soles, stiffer heel counters, and medial posts to offer extra stability and support, says Clifford L. Jeng, MD, FAAOS, an orthopedic surgeon. But it’s worth noting that some other shoes (like New Balance’s Fresh Foam X 1080v13) still have great arch support, even if they aren’t specifically described as stability shoes.

Are minimalist shoes good for flat feet?

Minimalist shoes aren’t recommended for flat feet because they tend to have thin cushioning, flexible soles, and little to no arch support, according to Dr. Lobkova. Instead, look for a stable shoe that’s rigid and won’t bend easily.

Which shoes should I avoid wearing if I have flat feet?

If you have flat feet, you should avoid wearing shoes that lack cushioning and arch support. For instance, thin flip-flops and flat sandals don’t usually have enough support and stability in the midfoot and heel to prevent discomfort and lower your risk of injury while walking.

Why Trust Verywell Fit

As a running coach, marathon runner, personal trainer, and fitness writer, Christine Luff, ACE-CPT, has spent years researching and recommending running and walking shoes to clients and friends. Although she doesn’t have flat feet, she knows how important it is to find the right support to avoid pain. To walk in comfort and reduce injury risk, she suggests getting properly fitted for walking shoes and replacing them regularly.

Additional reporting contributed by Alex Aldeborgh, MS, RDN

Alex Aldeborgh, MS, RDN, is a fitness enthusiast and avid walker. She walks her dog at least three miles each day, so she understands the importance of appropriate footwear to avoid injuries and pain. She loves her Asics’ Gel Kayano 28 Running Shoes for their responsiveness and traction on trail walks.