Are minimalist shoes good for flat feet?

Minimalist shoes are designed to mimic barefoot walking and running as much as possible, while still protecting the foot from ground debris. There are varying degrees of minimalist shoes. Barefoot shoes are flexible and have no arch support, minimal cushioning, and very thin soles. Minimalist shoes offer slightly more support, and are considered in between barefoot shoes and traditional shoes. Adding in a pair of insoles for flat feet can help. People with flat feet require adequate support and stability in the midfoot and the heel. A shoe with stability will be relatively rigid and not bend easily, which is the opposite of what a minimalist shoe offers. Because of this, Dr. Lobkova says that “people with flat feet should avoid shoes with very flexible soles and minimalist shoes.”

Can you fix flat feet? If so, how?

Because flat feet are characterized by a particular bone structure, they can only be permanently corrected by surgical intervention. However, most cases of flat feet are asymptomatic and therefore do not need surgical correction. Check with your doctor if you have any of the following symptoms of flat feet: “pain in the arch or midfoot, protruding bump on the inside of the foot, and tight calf muscles” says Dr. Lobkova.

What causes flat feet?

Dr. Lobkova says that flat feet are usually genetic. It all comes down to the alignment and bone structure in your foot, which is passed down from your relatives. “Other causes include injuries, pregnancy which increases laxity in the ligaments of the feet, obesity, and aging,” she adds.

How can you tell if you have flat feet?

If you have flat feet, your feet will likely have little to no arch. You may also have flexible flat feet, meaning your feet may seemingly have an arch, but the arch flattens when you are standing or walking. According to Dr. Lobkova, you can determine if you have flat feet at home using dark construction paper and baby powder, “Step into baby or foot powder and walk across a piece of dark construction paper. The outline of the bottom of the foot will have a thin outline on a higher arch, whereas a wider footprint suggests a flat foot type.”

The 12 Best Walking Shoes for Flat Feet of 2023, Tested and Reviewed

If you have flat feet, you’re probably all too familiar with the pain that starts after a long day of walking. Whether you walk for exercise or just want to feel comfortable on your feet, wearing supportive walking shoes can help reduce discomfort.

“A flat foot type requires the shoe to be wide enough at the ball of the foot and supportive in the midsole or arch of the foot to limit the collapse of the arch,” Nelya Lobkova, DPM, ABPM Certified Surgical Podiatrist, says. On top of a wide-toe box, a good pair of walking shoes for flat feet should also have stability and plenty of traction.

During Verywell Fit's real-world test, we tried a dozen pairs of walking shoes at home to ensure they provide enough width, support, and stability for flat feet. Each pair of shoes was tested multiple times, with walks varying in time and intensity. To craft our list of best shoes, we also referenced the American Podiatric Medical Association's list of shoes that have earned their Seal of Acceptance.

In addition, we had a board-certified clinical specialist in orthopedic physical therapy from our Review Board check this article for accuracy surrounding what to look for in walking shoes for flat feet and the causes and treatments for the condition.

Our Top Picks

Best Men's Overall:

Brooks Adrenaline GTS 22 Running Shoes at Amazon

Jump to Review

Best Women's Overall :

Asics Women's Gel-Kayano 28 at Amazon

Jump to Review

Best Lightweight:

Saucony Guide 15 at Amazon

Jump to Review

Best Men's Budget:

Vionic Classic Walker at Amazon

Jump to Review

Best Women's Budget:

Vionic Edin Sneaker at Amazon

Jump to Review

Best for Long Walks:

Hoka One One Arahi 6 at Amazon

Jump to Review

Best for Cushion:

Saucony Triumph 19 at Amazon

Jump to Review

Best for Brisk Walks:

Asics Gel-Kayano 28 at Amazon

Jump to Review

Best for All Day Wear:

Nike Zoom Structure 24 at Amazon

Jump to Review

Best for Motion Control:

New Balance Fresh Foam 860v12 at Amazon

Jump to Review

In This Article

Our Picks
How We Tested
What to Look For
FAQs
Why Trust Verywell Fit

4.9

Amazon

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Pros

Comfortable cushioning
No break-in period needed

Cons

Not warm enough for cold weather walks

Due to the great fit, plush feel, and added health benefits that come with prolonged use of this shoe, the Brooks Adrenaline GTS 22 proved to be the best overall men’s Brooks shoe we tested. It offers structure and stability in a lightweight shoe with enough cushioning for all-day wear.

We noticed that these shoes fit perfectly right out of the box, with no break-in period needed. Our favorite feature in these shoes was the lateral stability and support, in part due to Brooks’ “GuideRails Technology.” This is the brand’s way of saying that extra cushioning in the shoe’s heel helps minimize excess movement, which provides support for your feet, knees, and hips.

While we know this is a hefty claim, we mean it: This felt like one of the best shoes we tried throughout testing. The Adrenaline GTS 22 provided the ideal amount of cushion—not too soft, not too firm—on all of our testing walks. When we stepped, we noticed the responsiveness of the shoes helped propel our feet forward when walking. They were very structured and supportive, yet the upper material was still sumptuous, making them perfect for brisk and long walks.

There was no break-in period; these walking shoes felt ready to move in as soon as we took them out of the box. We noticed that the shoe is narrower at the heel and wider in the toe box. This means these shoes may not feel as snug as you may like if you have a narrower toe area. Or if you have unstable ankles, these shoes may not be the best option for you as that was the weakest area of support in the shoe.

As an added bonus, they earned the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA) Seal of Approval, which recognizes products that promote good foot health.

Price at time of publication: $140

^{Key Specs:
Weight: 10.2 ounces | Closure: Lace-up | Stability Type: Firm}

4.8

Amazon

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Our Ratings

Cushioning

4/5
Responsiveness

5/5
Fit

5/5
Value

4/5
Blister Protection

5/5

Pros

Great shock absorption
Comfortable on longer walks
Good for all-terrain walking

Cons

May be too narrow for some users

For the best overall women’s shoe, we picked the Asics Gel Kayano, which felt stable and supportive right out of the box. We loved the fit of the shoe, as it required no break-in time and felt comfortable as soon as we hit the ground on the first test walk. After trying these shoes, we understand why they’re so highly recommended by runners and walkers.

We noted that the combination of stability and cushioning in these shoes was great for long walks. This pair has gel cushioning, which helps minimize shock during impact. In addition, the traction on the soles was very useful during our trail walks.

They felt responsive, but not overly bouncy which aided in smoother strides when walking. We also appreciated the shock absorption that the gel cushioning in the heel provides, especially when we were testing the shoes on longer walks. The breathable upper fabric is structured but not too stiff, and it’s thick enough so you can walk confidently in colder weather.

Price at time of publication: $160

^{Key Specs:
Weight: 9.1 ounces | Closure: Lace-up | Stability Type: Firm}

4.5

Amazon

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Our Ratings

Cushioning

4/5
Responsiveness

3.5/5
Fit

5/5
Value

4.5/5
Blister Protection

5/5

Pros

Soft, flexible upper
Deep footbed

Cons

Doesn’t offer as much arch support as other options

If you prefer a lightweight walking shoe, the Saucony Guide 15 has you covered. During our tests, it provided adequate stability for flat feet due to its lateral strength and support while still weighing in at under 10 ounces. It's also well-suited for exercises, like core training on balance boards, where lightweight shoes with some flexibility are beneficial.

These shoes feel super comfortable right off the bat. We genuinely appreciated how lightweight they felt, which is unusual for a stability walking shoe. They're very plush, with a flexible mesh upper that is not rigid. Which we noted would make this shoe a great option for traveling.

We also love that this pair also features a deeper footbed, which offers support from all angles, not just on the bottom. And, they’re made with vegan materials, including partially recycled materials in the mesh upper. What the Saucony Guide 15 lacks in weight, it makes up for with plenty of stability for flat feet.

Price at time of publication: $140

^{Key Specs:
Weight: 9.5 ounces | Closure: Lace-up | Stability Type: Medium}

4.2

Amazon

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Our Ratings

Cushioning

3/5
Responsiveness

3/5
Fit

3/5
Value

3.5/5
Blister Protection

4/5

Pros

Podiatrist-developed orthotics
Good traction

Cons

Leather can feel stiff
May run small

We tested this classic walker and consider it a solid men's option for flat feet walkers on a budget. For support, it uses a combination of podiatrist-designed orthotics, a flexible outsole, and a breathable upper. As far as stability goes, this shoe features a thermoplastic heel counter to provide structure with good traction on the outsoles to help prevent slipping.

We like that these shoes have an orthotic insert that molds to your feet. It’s a unique feature we didn't see in any of the other shoes we tested. However, the insoles will require a bit of breaking in before they are perfectly formed to your stride. We found that these shoes run small, so we recommend sizing up one full size when purchasing.

While these weren’t the most comfortable walking shoes we tested, their affordable price is appealing if that's your top priority.

Price at time of publication: $110

^{Key Specs:
Weight: 14.1 ounces | Closure: Lace-up | Stability Type: Firm}

4.2

Amazon

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Our Ratings

Cushioning

3/5
Responsiveness

3/5
Fit

3.5/5
Value

4/5
Blister Protection

4/5

Pros

Podiatrist-designed orthotics
Padded collar for supportive fit

Cons

Upper isn’t very breathable

The Vionic Edin proved to be the best women’s walking shoe that’s flat feet- and budget-friendly. We feel that these shoes provide adequate stability for walking. Since they have an orthotic, they don't feel as cushioned as typical running or walking sneakers, but we think once you get used to them they are comfortable and mold to your feet.

Additional support features include a flexible, cushioned outsole and a lightweight upper. It also has a pull tab on the heel, which makes putting the shoe on and taking it off easier.

We enjoyed how these shoes felt lightweight but still very sturdy. We also found that these shoes run small and recommend sizing up a half size.

Price at time of publication: $130

^{Key Specs:
Weight: 10 ounces | Closure: Lace-up | Stability Type: Firm}

4.5

Amazon

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Pros

Highly reactive
Soft and breathable upper

Cons

Some may prefer less cushion and bounce

The Hoka One One Arahi 6 is super comfortable, making it an excellent choice for extended wear. Out of all the shoes we tested, we preferred these shoes over others on our longer walks—3 miles or more.

This shoe is lightweight – weighing just 9.3 ounces – without compromising stability and support. The Arahi 6 has “J-Frame Technology,” which means that the structure of the shoe works with your natural stride to stabilize your foot without overcorrecting your stride. We liked how springy, bouncy, and reactive it felt—definitely more so than others we tested. The pair also has a great blister protection feature, which we appreciated on lengthier treks.

We appreciated the small details that made this shoe great, including ample room in the toe box, an extended heel pull tab, and good traction on the soles. Additionally, this shoe is completely vegan and made from partially recycled materials.

Price at time of publication: $210

^{Key Specs:
Weight: 9.3 ounces | Closure: Lace-up | Stability Type: Medium}

4.5

Amazon

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Our Ratings

Cushioning

5/5
Responsiveness

4/5
Fit

5/5
Value

4.5/5
Blister Protection

4/5

Pros

No break-in period
Many color options

Cons

Lightweight upper too thin for cold weather walking

If you want plush cushioning in your walking shoe, we recommend Saucony’s Triumph 19.

To ensure stability for flat feet, the Triumph 19 utilizes “FORMFIT,” which means that the shoe’s structure hugs the foot three-dimensionally and stabilizes each stride.

The mesh upper is incredibly soft for a walking/running shoe, which gives them a lightweight feel. However, we did make note that the shoe’s mesh upper isn’t great for walking in colder weather.

We also appreciate that this shoe is accepted by the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA) and that it’s made using some recyclable materials.

Price at time of publication: $150

^{Key Specs:
Weight: 10.2 ounces | Closure: Lace-up | Stability Type: Medium}

4.2

Amazon

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Our Ratings

Cushioning

4/5
Responsiveness

4/5
Fit

4/5
Value

4/5
Blister Protection

3.5/5

Pros

Structured, yet soft support
Good traction

Cons

Not as much blister protection

Fans of brisk walks and speedwalking will especially enjoy the Asics Gel Kayano 28. This shoe tested well in the lateral stability and support category, with better-than-average cushioning.

The gel supports in the Kayano 28 help stabilize flat feet, ankles, knees, and hips by minimizing shock during impact. We like the gel sole's responsiveness; it doesn't feel super springy, but you still feel a bit of an effortless 'lift.' However, we felt that there wasn’t as much blister protection in this pair.

Of all the shoes we tested, this pair felt best on brisk walks and would even be a good choice for running. The Gel Kayano also has adequate traction to support you during nature walks on your favorite trails.

Price at time of publication: $160

^{Key Specs:
Weight: 10.9 ounces | Closure: Lace-up | Stability Type: Firm}

4.2

Amazon

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Our Ratings

Cushioning

4.5/5
Responsiveness

3/5
Fit

3.5/5
Value

4/5
Blister Protection

4/5

Pros

Minimal and classic design
Soft yet structured upper

Cons

Toe box may be too wide for some

For all-day wear, we liked the Nike Zoom Structure for its classic look and its features that help provide maximal comfort and stability.

The Zoom Structure has a molded heel and under-heel crash pad that creates a seamless heel-to-toe transition with each step. It has a foam midsole and vertical grooves down the sides of the soles that further enhance stability. It all adds up to a comfortable yet stable shoe you can wear for hours.

We liked the wide toe box and appreciated the structured yet soft mesh upper, which helped us avoid blisters. We felt these shoes were comfortable right out of the box, and their sleek style made for a great everyday option.

Price at time of publication: $170

^{Key Specs:
Weight: 11 ounces | Closure: Lace-up | Stability Type: Medium}

4.2

Amazon

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Our Ratings

Cushioning

4/5
Responsiveness

3.5/5
Fit

4/5
Value

4/5
Blister Protection

3.5/5

Pros

Firm support
Double knit upper provides additional support

Cons

Break-in period required

When it comes to motion control, we were impressed by the lateral stability and support that the New Balance Fresh Foam offered.

It has a supportive medial post and Ultra Heel for stability within the footbed. Additionally, the lightweight mesh upper is double knit with strategic embroidery to further stabilize your stride. Once we laced them up, they felt stable and the cushioning is pretty plush.

These took one or two walks to break in but afterward, they were one of our favorites. With a pronounced heel tab, you may be more prone to developing blisters at first.

Price at time of publication: $135

^{Key Specs:
Weight: 11.4 ounces | Closure: Lace-up | Stability Type: Firm}

4.2

KURU FOOT WEAR

View On Kurufootwear.com

Our Ratings

Cushioning

3.5/5
Responsiveness

2/5
Fit

3/5
Value

3.5/5
Blister Protection

4/5

Pros

Designed to alleviate plantar fasciitis symptoms
Lightweight
Stylish

Cons

Some may prefer softer cushioning
May run small

A shoe designed with plantar fasciitis in mind, the Kuru Atom is a solid option if you suffer from heel pain. The structure of the Kuru Atom hugs your heel with every step to keep your natural heel fat pad healthy.

These shoes also feature a thick midsole, which provides the ideal conditions to help alleviate pain from plantar fasciitis. We appreciated the soft mesh upper and sleek appearance, noting that this shoe is more stylish than traditional running or walking shoes.

We found the Kuru shoes ran a bit small, so it might be best to size up by one half size.

Price at time of publication: $160

^{Key Specs:
Weight: 12.2 ounces | Closure: Lace-up | Stability Type: Firm}

4.2

KURU FOOT WEAR

View On Kurufootwear.com

Our Ratings

Cushioning

3/5
Responsiveness

2/5
Fit

3.5/5
Value

3.5/5
Blister Protection

4/5

Pros

Highly structured support
Excellent shock absorption
Helps improve alignment, posture

Cons

Break-in period required
May run small

The versatile Quantum trainer is our top choice for walkers with knee pain. These shoes are built with foot pain and other leg discomfort in mind. The sole doesn’t flatten out the fat pad on your heel, so it gradually improves your alignment and posture.

For flat feet, the Kuru Quantum has a thick midsole that delivers cushioning and stability with each step. It’s also designed to maximize shock absorption, which is important for combating joint pain.

This shoe felt more structured and sturdy than the others we tested. Because the sole molds to your feet over time, it does take some breaking in before they feel totally comfortable. We found that it helps to wear them around the house to speed up the process.

Price at time of publication: $160

^{Key Specs:
Weight: 12.4 ounces | Closure: Lace up | Stability Type: Firm}

		Overall Rating
Best Men's Overall: Brooks Adrenaline GTS 22 Running Shoes	Amazon	4.9
Best Women's Overall : Asics Women's Gel-Kayano 28	Amazon	4.8
Best Lightweight: Saucony Guide 15	Amazon	4.5
Best Men's Budget: Vionic Classic Walker	Amazon	4.2
Best Women's Budget: Vionic Edin Sneaker	Amazon	4.2
Best for Long Walks: Hoka One One Arahi 6	Amazon	4.5
Best for Cushion: Saucony Triumph 19	Amazon	4.5
Best for Brisk Walks: Asics Gel-Kayano 28	Amazon	4.2
Best for All Day Wear: Nike Zoom Structure 24	Amazon	4.2
Best for Motion Control: New Balance Fresh Foam 860v12	Amazon	4.2
Best for Plantar Fasciitis: Kuru Atom	Kurufootwear.com	4.2
Best for Bad Knees: Kuru Quantum	Kurufootwear.com	4.2

How We Rated the Best Walking Shoes for Flat Feet

4.8 to 5 stars: These are the best walking shoes for flat feet that we tested. We recommend them without reservation.

4.5 to 4.7 stars: These walking shoes for flat feet are excellent—they might have minor flaws, but we still recommend them.

4.0 to 4.5 stars: We think these are great walking shoes for flat feet, but others are better.

3.5 to 3.9 stars: These walking shoes for flat feet are just average.

3.4 and below: We don't recommend walking shoes for flat feet with this rating; you won't find any on our list.

The seven key parts of a walking shoe.

Verywell Fit / Michelle Parente

How We Tested the Best Walking Shoes for Flat Feet

We selected walking shoes after examining current research about flat feet and interviewing Nelya Lobkova, DPM, ABPM Certified Surgical Podiatrist. Dr. Lobkova highlighted which walking shoe features benefit flat feet and recommended specific brands and shoe models.

Overall, we tested 12 pairs of walking shoes—ten men’s pairs and two women’s pairs. One male tester with flat feet tested all of the men’s shoes on walks at home, and one female tester who’s an avid walker tested all of the women’s shoes. Each pair of shoes was tested on three or more walks, ranging in length from 2.5 to 5 miles. Most walks were done on sidewalks and roads, with a few test walks on trails.

After each walk, our tester rated each shoe for different factors: cushioning, responsiveness, upper comfort, fit, lateral stability and support, blister protection, and value.

What to Look for in Walking Shoes for Flat Feet

Stability

Stability is one of the most important features to look for in a walking shoe if you have flat feet. “Stability shoes offer midfoot stability and support. These shoes are for people who pronate for longer than they should during the normal walking cycle, which are those with flat feet,” Dr. Lobkova says. Shoes with great stability are usually more rigid than neutral shoes—they should be difficult to bend at the midpoint.

Toe Box

People with flat feet will benefit from wearing wider walking shoes, especially shoes with a wide toe box. “A wide toe box minimizes the risk of developing nerve compression in the forefoot (i.e. neuroma symptoms) which can occur with narrow/tight fitted shoes,” Dr. Lobkova says.

Cushioning

In walking shoes, cushioning refers to the padding under the foot that helps reduce the impact of walking on your joints. Dr. Lobkova says that “people with flat feet do not require a high amount of cushioning, nonetheless, cushioning adds comfort and is helpful if there is any pain in the ball of the foot. Typically, I advise considering shoes with reactive or light cushioning features for those with flat feet.”

Traction

Traction is the resistance of a shoe against sliding while being pulled. According to Dr. Lobkova, “adequate traction in the outsole makes for a great outdoor training shoe but also helps maintain muscle control during lateral movement”, which helps promote joint stability. So, more traction on a shoe can offer greater stability for flat feet.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are minimalist shoes good for flat feet?

Minimalist shoes are designed to mimic barefoot walking and running as much as possible, while still protecting the foot from ground debris. There are varying degrees of minimalist shoes. Barefoot shoes are flexible and have no arch support, minimal cushioning, and very thin soles. Minimalist shoes offer slightly more support, and are considered in between barefoot shoes and traditional shoes. Adding in a pair of insoles for flat feet can help.

People with flat feet require adequate support and stability in the midfoot and the heel. A shoe with stability will be relatively rigid and not bend easily, which is the opposite of what a minimalist shoe offers. Because of this, Dr. Lobkova says that “people with flat feet should avoid shoes with very flexible soles and minimalist shoes.”
Can you fix flat feet? If so, how?

Because flat feet are characterized by a particular bone structure, they can only be permanently corrected by surgical intervention. However, most cases of flat feet are asymptomatic and therefore do not need surgical correction.
Check with your doctor if you have any of the following symptoms of flat feet: “pain in the arch or midfoot, protruding bump on the inside of the foot, and tight calf muscles” says Dr. Lobkova.
What causes flat feet?

Dr. Lobkova says that flat feet are usually genetic. It all comes down to the alignment and bone structure in your foot, which is passed down from your relatives. “Other causes include injuries, pregnancy which increases laxity in the ligaments of the feet, obesity, and aging,” she adds.
How can you tell if you have flat feet?

If you have flat feet, your feet will likely have little to no arch. You may also have flexible flat feet, meaning your feet may seemingly have an arch, but the arch flattens when you are standing or walking.
According to Dr. Lobkova, you can determine if you have flat feet at home using dark construction paper and baby powder, “Step into baby or foot powder and walk across a piece of dark construction paper. The outline of the bottom of the foot will have a thin outline on a higher arch, whereas a wider footprint suggests a flat foot type.”

Why Trust Verywell Fit

Alex Aldeborgh, MS, RDN, is a fitness enthusiast and avid walker. She walks her dog at least 3 miles each day, so she understands the importance of appropriate footwear to avoid injuries and pain. Her favorite shoe on this list is the Asics Gel Kayano 28 for its responsiveness and traction on trail walks.