The 7 Best Women’s Running Shoes For Flat Feet [2024 Reviews]

Don't let your flat feet slow you down, we look at this year's top running shoes for flat feet

Our Editors independently research, test, and rate what we feel are the best products. We use affiliate links and may receive a small commission on purchases.

If you have flat feet, finding the right pair of running shoes can be difficult. However, there are running shoes available that give your feet the support you need while still being lightweight and comfortable.

It may take a bit of research to get the right pair, but we’ve done the research for you to make buying the right pair of shoes a little easier.

Ready to get started?

Best Women’s Running Shoes For Flat Feet

Mizuno Women's Wave Inspire 14 Running ShoeHOKA ONE ONE Women's Arahi 2 Running ShoeBrooks Womens Adrenaline GTS 19
editorschoice
Upper:Textile & Synthetic MeshSynthetic MeshTextile Mesh
Sole:RubberRubberRubber
Sizes:6-12 Narrow, Average, Wide6-105-13 Narrow, Average, Wide

For more of my running gear recommendations, have a look through these popular Women’s Workout guide links: Running Leggings, Running Shorts, Running Hydration Vest.

Quick Answer: The 7 Best Women’s Running Shoes For Flat Feet

  1. Mizuno Women’s Wave Inspire 14 Running Shoe
  2. HOKA ONE ONE Women’s Arahi 2 Running Shoe
  3. Brooks Womens Adrenaline GTS 19
  4. NIKE Women’s Air Zoom Structure 21 Running Shoe
  5. Saucony Women’s Guide Iso Running Shoe
  6. ASICS Women’s GT-2000 6 Running Shoes
  7. Brooks Womens Addiction 13

Our reviews of the top rated running shoes for flat feet with our comparison table and buyers guide will help you choose the right pair for you.


Women’s Running Shoes For Flat Feet Reviews

Mizuno Women’s Wave Inspire 14 Running Shoe at a Glance:

  • Sizes Available: 6-12
  • Colors Available: 4 Choices
  • Sole: Rubber
  • Materials: Textile and Synthetic Mesh

The Mizuno Wave Inspire line is our Editors Choice for the best running shoes for flat feet. This is not surprising as Mizuno has always been a great choice for runners.

However, the Wave Inspire 14 has some significant upgrades from previous versions.

Not only is the support shaft extremely comfortable, starting from the low-arch, but the Cloudwave technology gives you a lightweight shoe that is focused on stability control.

The cushion provided by the U4ic midsole lets your foot flex as needed while still offering support, the mesh upper allows your foot to breathe.

Mizuno focuses on creating the best shoes for those participating in many types of sports, including the avid runner.

If you are looking for a cushioned support shoe, the Mizuno Wave Inspire 14 may be just what you are looking for.


HOKA ONE ONE Women's Arahi Running Shoe

HOKA ONE ONE Women’s Arahi Running Shoe at a Glance:

  • Sizes Available: 6-9.5
  • Colors Available: 2 Choices
  • Sole: Rubber
  • Materials: Synthetic Mesh

The J-Frame technology of the Hoka One One Arahi reduces the rigid feel of many supportive shoes for flat feet.

The cushion allows for comfort as well as the slight flexibility needed to maintain support while still being comfortable.

The toe box of the One Arahi 2 is comfortable and extremely flexible, meaning there is no “break in” period for these shoes. Just lace them up and get to your run.

Finding a lightweight shoe when shopping for running shoes for flat feet may not be very easy, but you’ve found one in these Hoka branded shoes.

The rubber sole combined with a synthetic upper make the Hoka’s some of the best athletic shoes for flat feet that are lightweight and have cushioned support for runners.


Brooks Womens Adrenaline GTS 19 at a Glance:

  • Sizes Available: 5-13 in Narrow, Average, and Wide
  • Colors Available: 12 Choices
  • Sole: Rubber
  • Materials: Textile Mesh

The first of the two Brooks brand running shoes we are featuring here is the Brooks Adrenaline GTS 19. The mesh upper has been redesigned to offer the support this line has always had but in a less rigid way.

This mesh upper also gives the shoe a great look while being functional. The technology in the mid-foot area of the Adrenaline GTS running shoes allows for an asymmetrical design.

This design allows the shoe to fit snug but with flexibility.

A TPU saddle wrap also makes the mid-foot of these running shoes fit more securely and offers the arch support that those with flat feet need when running.

The sock liner offers a comfortable experience adding to the comfort that a plush tongue as well as collar also provide.

The Progressive Diagonal Rollbar is made to give the midsole of the shoe the cushion and support needed, using three different densities of materials make the Adrenaline’s the best running shoes for overpronation on our list.


NIKE Women’s Air Zoom Structure 21 Running Shoe at a Glance:

  • Sizes Available: 5-12
  • Colors Available: 18 Choices
  • Sole: Rubber
  • Materials: Textile and Synthetic

The stability features of the Nike Air Zoom Structure 21 running shoes feature a supportive midsole with their proprietary Flywire cables that wrap around the foot, making it easier to get the comfortable support you need as a runner.

The crash pad offers impact cushion so you can keep going mile after mile. You won’t find better traction control with Nike’s deep flex grooves.

If the weather never stops you, you need to have a weather-resistant shoe and the water repellant treatment does just that.

The stability features of this shoe, while being very efficient, are minimal in size so it can be lightweight while the cushioned insole allows your foot to flex in a more natural way.

If your looking for good shoes for flat feet you will not go wrong with the Nike Zoom Air’s.


Saucony Women’s Guide Iso Running Shoe at a Glance:

  • Sizes Available: 5-12 in Narrow, Average, and Wide
  • Colors Available: 6 Choices
  • Sole: Rubber
  • Materials: Textile and Synthetic Mesh

These women’s running shoes, the Saucony Guide ISO are made from both textile and synthetic materials, combined to give you all the support you need but in an efficient and attractive package.

Saucony’s EVERUN cushioning technology gives you impact support as well as comfort that just won’t quit during your run.

The EVERUN technology isn’t the only proprietary tech used in the Saucony Guide ISO running shoes. The ISOFIT lacing allows the upper to adapt to the shape of your foot.

This is extremely important when it comes to comfort for runners with flat feet.

The TRIFLEX outsole has been designed to disperse the impacts of running over a bigger surface area, limiting the impact felt in your feet and throughout your lower body.


ASICS Women’s GT-2000 6 Running Shoes at a Glance:

  • Sizes Available: 5-13 in Narrow, Average, and Wide
  • Colors Available: 6 Choices
  • Sole: Rubber
  • Materials: Synthetic Mesh

ASICS has been making some of the best sneakers for flat feet for quite some time and their latest in the GT series are no different.

The ASICS Women’s GT-2000 6, the sixth in this series, have been improved upon for maximum results.

The mesh upper allows for a lightweight feel, while also allowing your foot to breathe and giving a flexible support from these shoes.

There is a lot of modern running shoe technology used to make these some of the best running shoes you can buy.

Gel technology is used in both the rearfoot and forefoot areas to give you maximum cushion even after the longest runs.

The Fluidride midsole offers flexible support while the Guidance Trusstic Technology stands the test of time with the support you need.

The toe box of the ASICS GT-2000 6 running shoes has been made more comfortable for those with other foot problems as well, such as bunions.


Brooks Womens Addiction 13 at a Glance:

  • Sizes Available: 5-11 in Narrow, Average, and Wide
  • Colors Available: 2 Choices
  • Sole: Rubber
  • Materials: Synthetic Mesh

We couldn’t leave out the Brooks Addiction 13 running shoes in this list of the best womens running shoes for flat feet. These shoes are specifically designed for those who overpronate with flat feet.

The removable foam insole also makes it easy to use these running shoes with custom orthotic insoles. The Heel Segmented Crash Pad offers great impact support for those who take their running game seriously.

The breathable mesh upper keeps your foot dry and cool, even on long runs.

The midsole technology Brooks utilizes in the Addiction line, called BioMoGo DNA gives supportive cushioning, allowing your foot to flex naturally while still being supported.

The fabric lining as well as the cushioned collar and tongue offer even more comfort.


Running Shoes for Flat Feet Comparison Table

Running ShoeUpperSoleSizesRating
Mizuno Women's Wave Inspire 14 Running ShoeTextile and Synthetic MeshRubber6-12 Narrow, Average, Wide4.5 / 5.0
HOKA ONE ONE Women's Arahi 2 Running ShoeSynthetic MeshRubber6-104.4 / 5.0
Brooks Womens Adrenaline GTS 19Textile MeshRubber5-13 Narrow, Average, Wide4.5 / 5.0
NIKE Women's Air Zoom Structure 21 Running ShoeTextile and SyntheticRubber5-124.6 / 5.0
Saucony Women's Guide Iso Running ShoeTextile and Synthetic MeshRubber5-12 Narrow, Average, Wide3.9 / 5.0
ASICS Women's GT-2000 6 Running ShoesSynthetic MeshRubber5-13 Narrow, Average, Wide4.0 / 5.0
Brooks Womens Addiction 13Synthetic MeshRubber5-11 Narrow, Average, Wide4.1 / 5.0

How to Choose the Best Women’s Running Shoes for Flat Feet – Buying Guide

best sneakers for flat feet

The seven featured running shoes may have narrowed down your list of choices, but you still need to choose which of these 7 are right for you.

It is important to take the following factors into consideration when choosing the right shoe for you.

Stability

Any good running shoe will offer stability. However, those with flat feet need a little more stability than the average runner.

The shoe should offer stability features that help to keep your foot flexing normally but in a supported environment to reduce the risk of pain in your feet after a run.

Many of the shoes we’ve featured here offer stability technology that is proprietary to that brand.

Support

Support is another feature you have to look for in your next pair of running shoes if you have flat feet. This support is vital especially in the arch since those with flat feet most likely overpronate.

This means your ankle turns inward with each impact and the arch of your foot flexes to also reach the ground. With good arch support, you can maintain healthy movement in your foot but also in a structurally healthy way.

Motion Control

Many running shoes have technology that offers the best in motion control. Motion control and stability go hand in hand. Those shoes that focus too much on motion control may be harder, heavier, and more rigid.

However, as technological advances in the world of running shoes, the motion control doesn’t have to make your shoes feel clunky.

Cushion

The cushioning you experience while running in most running shoes for flat feet can make or break the best pair of shoes. Each brand and model of shoes uses different technology to provide maximum cushion while still being supportive.

From gel technology in the forefoot to a plush collar, your new pair of shoes should offer optimal cushion while still being supportive but flexible.

Comfort

This is perhaps the most important aspect of your new running shoes. They need to be comfortable. This can be the hardest to achieve if you have flat feet.

However, the top 7 running shoes for flat feet that we’ve featured all have excellent results when it comes to getting a comfortable run.

FAQs For Flat Feet Running Shoes

Have questions about purchasing or using your new running shoes? These are some of the most common questions asked by those with flat feet who are shopping for a new pair of shoes. Ready for our answers?

Q: How are running shoes for flat feet different?

A: Running shoes made for flat feet usually have a stronger arch support that extends to the heel of the shoe. This is called a medial post.

Most people with flat feet are overpronators which means they need more support from the medial post. The Brooks Addiction 13 running shoes that we have featured above, have a stronger and bigger medial post as they are made for severe overpronators.

Q: Will a neutral running shoe help?

A: There are some people with flat feet that can wear neutral running shoes. Neutral running shoes are usually made from the same density of materials throughout the entire sole.

It isn’t common, however, that someone with flat feet will have the best running experience with a neutral shoe. It is best to get a pair of running shoes specifically made for your foot condition.

Q: Can I use barefoot running shoes?

A: Experiences with barefoot running shoes for those with flat feet vary widely. While some runners have painful side effects from wearing barefoot shoes, others find their gait changes when wearing them.

The change in gait as you run usually minimizes the impact on the heal, putting the force of the running on the balls of your feet. This reduces overpronating and can lead to a great running experience.

Q: Do I underpronate or overpronate if I have flat feet?

A: Those who have flat feet are usually not underpronating. While a neutral gait is possible, the most common problem with those who have flat feet is the tendency to overpronate.

This means your running shoes should be made for those who overpronate. Some running shoes, like the Brooks Addiction 13 shoes mentioned above, are made for those who overpronate seriously.

Q: What is the “wet foot test”?

A: The wet foot test can help you determine if you are overpronating or have a more neutral gate. You should use a surface that will show water easily. Many people do this test at a swimming pool as you can usually see the steps you take with wet feet as you exit the pool.

Take several steps with wet feet and analyze your foot prints. If there is no arch seen, you likely overpronate. If you have a higher arch, you underpronate. Somewhere in the middle would mean you have a neutral gait.

Tips for Running Shoes for Flat Feet

Here we have several tips for those shopping for running shoes for flat feet and how to get the best experience once you have them. Let’s take a look at the following 5 tips.

Tip #1: Understand the Problem

The problem with flat feet is that your ankle will turn to the inside as you run, or even just walking. While this can lead to a painful running experience for both your feet and ankles, the problem doesn’t stop there.

When the ankle turns to the inside, both your knees and hips take damage as well. This can lead to immediate pain, but also long-term problems if you don’t have the proper shoes.

Tip #2: Buy a Running Shoe Made to Help

The supportive cushion that running shoes have when they are made for those who have flat feet can help you to keep a normal gait. This helps to keep your feet from tiring easily but it also helps your ankles, knees, and hips to become better aligned when running.

Tip #3: Try Several Pairs to Find the Right One

Every runner is different and will benefit from a different brand and model of shoe. The first one you choose may not be the most ideal for your gait. If not, don’t be afraid to try another type of running shoe from this list. Just as every runner is different, every running shoe is different, and it may take a bit more time to find the perfect match.

Tip #4: Lace Your Running Shoes Properly

Once again, every runner is different, and you may need to lace your running shoes differently to get the best running experience. Some people find that the simple lacing you use with every other pair of shoes gives them a great experience.

However, for those who overpronate, you may need to lace them up a bit tighter while making sure the heel is as far back in the shoe is can be. It is important to try different lacing techniques with your new pair of running shoes to make sure you are doing everything you can to minimize the problem.

Tip #5: Consider Custom Orthotics in Addition to Your New Shoes

Sometimes a new pair of running shoes made for those with flat feet aren’t enough. Your doctor may have you fitted for custom orthotics that can work together with your new running shoes. Depending on the severity of the problem, you may want to inquire about custom orthotics to use in addition to the supportive running shoes you choose.

Get the Most Out of Your Run, Even with Flat Feet

Having flat feet doesn’t have to stop you from getting the best running experience. With the right shoes, you can continue to enjoy years of running whether you run one mile or a marathon. Take a look at the top 7 running shoes for flat feet we feature here and choose the best ones for you. Don’t let flat feet spoil your running fun!

How We Researched

To come up with the top running shoes for flat feet, we researched a variety of sources for reviews such as REI, Walmart, Target and Dick’s Sporting Goods along with our own personal experience.

The authors consulted sources such as online magazines for research and reviews unbiased information.

By using Fakespot.com we tried to eliminate fake reviews and use only genuine ones.

With so many options available, the authors narrowed down the selections by using products they felt were the best value for the money.

The staff authors have a wide and varied background as fitness trainers, yoga instructors and runners. The authors have decades of experience and are eager to share their knowledge with readers.

In order to narrow down the options, we used personal experiences plus recommendations from other trainers and instructors.

Sources


Notice:

BestWomensWorkouts is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program. BestWomensWorkouts earns fees from products sold through qualifying purchases by linking to Amazon.com. Amazon offers a commission on products sold through their affiliate links.

Ericka Parker

Ericka started her career as a personal trainer over 20 years ago and her goal was to help people become healthy, happy and fit. To do this she would find out their goals and provide the tools and routines to help them reach them. As her career progressed, she added yoga training to her skills to help her clients achieve mindfulness and help with clients mobility. To help more people she started bestwomensworkouts.com to help other people achieve their fitness goals with advice, tips and fitness equipment reviews.
Back to top button