The 7 Best Running Shoes for Men With Flat Feet

ASICS GEL-Kayano 28 running shoes are a solid pick for cushioning and support

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Running is a great cardiovascular activity and part of many people’s fitness routines. However, if you have flat feet or low arches, it can be painful and without proper support, can lead to injury.

Reviewed & Approved

ASICS is well known for their GEL technology which makes the Men's Gel-Kayano 28 running shoes an easy pick for best overall. A wallet-friendly option that still offers plenty of cushioning is the New Balance Men's Fresh Foam Evare V1 running shoes.

Knowing the reason for your flat feet is important for finding the right shoes. Naturally flat feet need different midsole support than fallen arches that are flat from weak musculature. Proper fit is also an important feature. The heel should be snug to limit pronation. We reviewed running shoes for men with flat feet based on type of support, size availability, cushioning, and affordability.

Here, the best running shoes for men with flat feet.

In This Article

Best Overall

Asics Men's Gel-Kayano 28

4.2
Asics Men's Gel-Kayano 28

Amazon

When it comes to finding a great pair of running shoes for flat feet, the ASICS Men’s Gel-Kayano 28 running shoe earns our best overall rating. The shoes sport a FlyteFoam midsole technology for lightweight arch support, as well as the Dynamic Duomax support system that improves stability and reduces pronation. Other features, such as the Fluid Fit Upper and the Heel Clutching System, provide a comfortable feel and a snug fit for every runner.

The ASICS sneakers feature the brand’s Impact Guidance System that supports your foot from heel to toe, offering natural movement, bending at all the right points. If you have problems with your knees, however, you should consider running shoes for bad knees.

They’re available in sizes 6 to 16, in regular, wide, and extra-wide widths to accommodate the smallest and biggest feet. They come in 20 bold and trendy colors.

Price at time of publication: $160

Best Budget

New Balance Men's Fresh Foam Evare V1

New-balance-mens-fresh-foam-evare-v1

Amazon

This comfortable but cutting edge running shoe buy, delivers soft support with Fresh Foam midsole cushioning. In addition, it offers a stack height that delivers more underfoot cushioning features needed in shoes for the flat-footed runner. 

Designed with durability in mind, the ground contact EVA outsole offers durable support to help you run with comfort and confidence on various surfaces.

Sizes come in an extensive range and widths, from sizes 6 to 16, and in regular, wide, and extra-wide widths. The shoe comes in six color combinations—bold colors paired with grays or black, from Light Aluminum/Chromatic Yellow through Black/Team Royal.

Price at time of publication: $90

Best for Training

Brooks Adrenaline GTS 18 Shoe

4.6
Brooks-adrenaline-gts-18-shoe

Amazon

Brooks is one of the best brands in running footwear and makes an excellent sneaker for flat-footed men. The Brooks Men’s Adrenaline GTS 18 is designed for extra stability and arch support. In addition, the shoes use “high energizing cushioning,” as well as an “asymmetrical midsole saddle” to achieve this excellent support. These shoes are ideal for flat-footed runners who train for a race, and may need insoles for flat feet in their street and dress shoes.

In addition to the great support of the Brooks Men’s Adrenaline GTS 18, these shoes are made with a flexible and breathable synthetic upper. The midsole is adjustable for a firmer fit, and the tongue and collar offer great support. These shoes are designed for road-running and come with a removable fitted insole. Sizes are available in sizes 7.5 through 11. It comes in trendy color combinations like Blue/Black/Orange and Red/Black/Silver.

Price at time of publication: $169

Best for Trail Running

Mizuno Men's Wave Inspire 16 Road Running Shoe

Mizuno-mens-wave-inspire-16-road-running-shoe

Amazon

The pronation control in the Mizuno Wave Inspire 16 offers the assured stability those with flat feet often need in a running shoe. It features the X10 outer sole for increased durability and the U4ic Midsole, which provides optimal shock reduction. 

The shoe delivers an engineered mesh upper for a sleeker look, with a firm ride and stable feel. It’s lightweight, comfortable, and provides solid support. It comes with great sole padding, and the tread is appropriate for trails or wearing to work. 

A smooth ride support wave brings an ideal balance of cushion and lightness to every step.  Sizes are available in sizes 7 through 16, it comes in trendy colors like Salmon Buff-Black, Castlerock-Phantom, Steel Gray-Marshmallow, and others.

Price at time of publication: $135

Best for Joggers

Brooks Men's Beast 20

Brooks Men's Beast 20

Amazon

Runners looking to level up their jogging will find what they need in the Brooks Men’s Beast 20. With a patented BioMoGo DNA midsole, ultra-softness and durability go hand and hand. The Ultimate Sockliner enhances comfort.

With durability being key for the flat-footed runner, the DNA LOFT cushioning provides a soft feeling underfoot without losing responsiveness or longevity, offering stability and support.  

Sizes come in an extensive range and widths, from sizes 8 to 16, and in regular, wide, and extra-wide widths. The shoe comes in bold color combinations paired with grays or blacks, from Light Aluminum/Chromatic Yellow through Black/Team Royal. More standard color combinations are also offered. 

Price at time of publication: $160

Best Comfortable

New Balance Men's Fresh Foam 1080 V10 Running Shoes

New-balance-mens-fresh-foam-1080-v10-running-shoes

Amazon

Runners will notice the New Balance Fresh Foam shoes before trying them on, as the bold foam sole is a feature that stands out. The thick, cushioned Fresh Foam sole will comfort your entire foot, adding extra support and cushion for your midfoot and arch area.

Aside from the extra-plush foam sole that makes this men’s running shoe the most comfortable option for people with flat feet, these New Balance sneakers are great for running. They feature a snug fit that adheres closely to your foot, as well as a bootie construction.

These comfortable running shoes sport an almost sticky rubber outsole traction system. They are available in an extensive size range and different widths, from sizes 7 through 16, and in regular, wide, and extra-wide widths. Colors come in reliable gray and black combinations and neon colors like Phantom/Neo Flame and Vision Blue/Vintage Indigo.

Price at time of publication: $150

Best Supportive

Saucony Men’s Guide Running Shoe

Saucony Men’s Guide Running Shoe

Courtesy of Walmart

Combining cushioning and stability, the Saucony Guide running shoe delivers a solid choice for men with flat feet who want a supportive and comfortable running shoe. Its lightweight flexibility offers runners the support they need, even during long-distance runs or walks for these shoes. In addition, the shoe highlights Saucony’s EVERUN technology, which provides continuous cushioning throughout the entire foot, not just in the heel.

Flat-footed runners will be happy to know the cushioning doesn’t wear down throughout your run or walk, so you’ll get a smooth, comfortable ride from start to finish. In addition, the upper, breathable mesh prevents your feet from overheating, keeping them dry and blister-free. Available in sizes 7.5 to 14 and in regular and wide widths, these shoes can accommodate wide feet and custom-made orthotics. Colors available in standard Gray Black or Gray Navy.

Price at time of publication: $120

Final Verdict

For the essential features and support you want in a shoe for flat feet, consider the ASICS Men’s Gel-Kayano 28 Running Shoe. The brand’s Impact Guidance System supports your foot from heel to toe, offering natural movement, bending at all the right points.

Or, consider the budget-friendly New Balance Men's Fresh Foam Evare V1 Running Shoe. These cushioned running shoes are designed specifically for those who love to run, while providing midsole cushioning support and additional stack height for more underfoot stability. They deliver on the fashion and function front while offering durability, support, and confidence running on different surfaces. 

What to Look For in Men's Running Shoes for Flat Feet

Proper Support

The type of support you need depends on the cause of your flat feet. If you have flat feet resulting from collapsed arches, you have muscle weakness and need shoes that provide arch support until the feet are stronger. Collapsed arches can occur in one or both feet.

If you have anatomically flat feet, arch support could defer pain up your legs to your knees, so discuss your options with a podiatrist or physical therapist, and replace your shoes. If you overpronate due to flat feet, you may require shoes with more support and extra stability.

Proper Fit

Shoes need to fit well to be comfortable. Consider the shoelace system, heel counter, and any other methods of securing the foot inside the footbed to ensure a well-fitting shoe that does not slide or rub.

Look for shoes with a wider midfoot that do not cut in. Avoid hourglass-shaped shoes if you have flat feet. If you have overpronation along with flat feet, you may require a different fit.

Straight-last shoes are often recommended for those with flat feet. Shoes with a straight last do not curve as much at the sole, enabling natural movement for flat feet. Consider whether the brand you choose has sizes and widths that match your needs. Some brands provide wider versions of their shoes, while others do not.

Quality Materials

Choose well-constructed shoes that are made to last. Having flat feet can mean more wear and tear on certain areas of the shoes, so a pair that is made of durable materials is more likely to last. It's also wise to look for shoes that have a breathable mesh upper material that is made to prevent overheating.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • How long do running shoes last?

    A good pair of running shoes can last 300 to 500 miles, but you should replace your shoes whenever you see signs of serious wear. If one area of your shoes is clearly run down, you should likely replace them to avoid strain or injury. Otherwise replace your shoes approximately once every 6 months if you run 20 miles per week, or every 12 months if you run 10.

  • How do you make sure your running shoes fit?

    To make sure your running shoes fit, it is wise to seek out a professional for sizing. If you do not have access to this service, take careful length and width measurements of your feet, at the toes, heels, and mid-foot, while standing. Check sizing charts to see how your feet will fit in the shoes you are interested in. If you're buying online, look for a generous return policy in case the shoes don't fit after all.

  • How do you clean running shoes?

    Clean running shoes with a damp cloth and mild soap. You can also sprinkle baking soda inside shoes to absorb odors and dampness; vacuum out after a few hours. Some de-odorizing and cleaning sprays made specifically for athletic shoes are available.

  • Can flat feet make it hard to run?

    Flat feet can make it hard to run if it leads to pain. Having the correct shoes and support can help prevent this. Many successful runners have flat feet and no adverse symptoms.

  • How important is arch support when you have flat feet?

    Arch support may be important if you have flat feet due to collapsed arches. If you have anatomically flat feet, it may not be wise to use arch support. It's important to discuss your options with a doctor or podiatrist.

4 Sources
Verywell Fit uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read our editorial process to learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.
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  2. Cleveland Clinic. Flat feet (flatfoot): Types, causes and treatment.

  3. Malisoux L, Chambon N, Delattre N, Gueguen N, Urhausen A, Theisen D. Injury risk in runners using standard or motion control shoes: A randomised controlled trial with participant and assessor blinding. Br J Sports Med. 2016;50(8):481-487. doi:10.1136/bjsports-2015-095031

  4. Sun X, Lam WK, Zhang X, Wang J, Fu W. Systematic review of the role of footwear constructions in running biomechanics: Implications for running-related injury and performance. J Sports Sci Med. 2020;19(1):20-37.