Having flat feet can cause all sorts of painful problems – back aches, bunions and tendon damage just to list a few. It can make finding a good pair of walking shoes seem absolutely impossible.

But this doesn’t mean you’re doomed to suffer forever. It is very possible to find shoes for your flat feet that won’t hurt you!

In fact, the right pair of shoes can actually alleviate pain and mitigate damage caused from long-term use of improper footwear.

If you’re looking for the best pair of walking shoes for your flat feet, rest assured – we’ve researched the top performers on the market so you don’t have to.

Soon you’ll be able to walk so comfortably you’ll forget all about your lack of arches!

Best Women’s Flat Feet Walking Shoes

	Orthofeet Proven Relief Women's Shoes	Gravity Defyer Sneaker	Dr. Scholl's Madison Sneaker
Sizes:	5-12 Med, Wide, X-Wide	6-11, Wide, X-Wide	5-11 Wide
Upper:	Seam-free upper	Synthetic	N/A
Insole:	Orthotic insole	Corrective fit, removable insole	3-zone insole
Extra Features:	Extended width, therapeutic certification	VersoShock springs, wide toe box	Reinforced heel

For more of my shoe recommendations, have a look through these popular Women’s Workouts guide links: Shoes For Standing All Day, Cushioned Running Shoes, Long Distance Walking Shoes.

Quick Answer: The 7 Best Rated Walking Shoes For Flat Feet

1. Gravity Defyer Mighty Walk Sneaker for Heel Pain 
2. PDBQ Womens Walking Shoes 
3. New Balance FuelCore Nergize V1 Sneaker
4. Ryka Women’s Devotion Walking Shoe
5. New Balance Fresh Foam Roav V1 Sneaker
6. Dr. Scholl’s Madison Women’s Sneaker
7. Orthofeet Proven Relief Women’s Shoes 

Our reviews to the top rated walking shoes for flat feet with our comparison table and buyers guide will help you choose the right one for you.

Walking Shoes For Flat Feet Reviews

#1 Gravity Defyer Mighty Walk Sneaker for Heel Pain

The first shoe on our list is the Gravity Defyer Mighty Walk Sneaker. Built specially to remediate heel pain, these will have you walking pain-free in no time.

Featuring a patented VersoShock spring system, they absorb shock from the ground up to put a little extra spring in your step.

They also sport a removable insole to accommodate custom orthotic supports or special inserts.

An ergonomic rocker design and low heel-to-toe differential reduces pressure on the toe joints and improves ground reaction.

A seamless interior also provides relief from the friction which can so easily irritate sensitive feet and diabetic neuropathy.

Better yet, you won’t have to sacrifice style for comfort here – the Gravity Defyers are available in 7 different color combinations, from aqua to purple to peach.

These are some of the best walking sneakers for flat feet that we’ve seen on Amazon.

#2 PDBQ Women’s Walking Shoes

The PDBQ Women’s Walking Shoes are a comfortable, durable and breathable option which still offer the support necessary for flat feet.

A strong knit upper with good stretch allows for a secure fit while soft mesh fabric provides wiggle-room for your toes. 

They also feature a wavy MD thick sole with great traction and grip, and an air-cushioned outsole.

These sport a perforated arch for enhanced ventilation, which makes them a great option for long walks on a hot day.

Be aware that these are platform sneakers (1.96″), so they will add a little bit of height to your stance (great news for all the vertically challenged people out there).

Available in 6 different color options, you’ll be able to find a model which fits your personal style and aesthetic preferences.

#3 New Balance FuelCore Nergize V1 Sneaker

Step up your athleisure look with the New Balance FuelCore Nergize V1 Sneaker.

These versatile shoes feature a clean-lined, modern upper with additional lace-up support.

With REVlite cushioning in the midsole, they offer an ultra-lightweight, responsive cushioning that will support your arches throughout the day.

Their slip-on silhouette presents a versatile style that you can pair with denim, dresses, and more.

The FuelCores are available in a whopping 41 different color combinations, so you’re guaranteed to find a pair that fits with your own personal style.

These are by far some of the best walking shoes for flat feet that women can opt for.

#4 Ryka Women’s Devotion Walking Shoe

The Ryka Women’s Devotion Walking Shoe are a trendy pair of seamless sneakers that will support your flat feet over long periods of time.

The great thing about these is that they are engineered specially for a women’s unique foot shape, muscle movement and build.

With responsive cushioning made of re-zorb® active foam for impact protection and shock absorption, they will provide solid reinforcement for your heels – which is essential for flat-footers.

A supportive synthetic overlay and multi-layer construction will help protect you from overpronation, which is when your foot rolls inward due to lack of a firm sole and heel support.

Moreover, you’ll be able to choose from 24 different color combinations, ranging from silver-pink gradient to blue/purple to vibrant teal.

Featuring a four way gradient print and breathable mesh construction, these deliver supreme comfort in every step. They are some of the best shoes for flat feet available.

#5 New Balance Fresh Foam Roam V1 Sneaker

Next up, we have the New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam Roav Sneakers. These are the ultimate model for fans of casual athleisure.

With a precision-engineered fresh foam midsole, you’ll feel like you’re walking on clouds.

Endurance rubber outsole technology also provides superior durability in high-wear areas – which helps to preserve the longevity of the shoe.

These boast a reinforced heel that hugs the back of the foot for a snug, supportive fit. This unique heel works alongside the bootie upper for all-day comfort

They have a heel-to-toe drop of approximately 8mm, which can vary slightly model to model based on variances in the manufacturing process.

These Roav V1 sneakers are available in 30 different color combinations to suit anyones style. They are some of the best arch support sneakers for flat feet out there.

#6 Dr. Scholl’s Madison Women’s Sneaker

The Dr. Scholl’s Madison Womens Sneaker is a fan favorite among flat-footers, with some even commenting that the shoe is *not* for people with normal arches.

If you suffer from flat feet, you’ll love the look of this sporty slip on. With simple lines and a neutral palette, you’ll be able to pair these with literally anything.

They feature a super-supportive removable insole with 3 distinct zones, designed for maximum arch support.

The sidewalls and synthetic sole are both made from rubber, and there is a soft lining at the shoe’s collar.

Choose between 21 different colors and patterns, including snakeskin, leopard print and plaid, for an eye-catching and trendy pair of new shoes.

You won’t get tired of wearing these throughout the day or season – with their high quality design and superior arch support, they are truly one of the best sneakers for flat feet that a woman could dream of!

#7 Orthofeet Proven Relief Women’s Shoes

Last but definitely not least, we have the Orthofeet Proven Relief Women’s Shoes.

These orthotic shoes feature anatomical arch support, multiple cushioning layers and premium orthotic insoles that work to relieve pain in the foot and heel.

Available in medium, wide and extra wide widths, you’ll be able to find a perfect customized fit for your archless feet.

Soft, pliable uppers with seam-free fabric lining and extra foam padding provide protection for even the most sensitive feet which suffer from plantar fasciitis or diabetic neuropathy. 

They sport a wide toe box which offers a comfortable, non-binding fit, and eases pressure on bunions, hammer toes and sensitive feet.

These also feature an extra-depth design which provides ample room for custom made orthotics prescribed by your doctor.

These unique comfort features all combine seamlessly to create the best walking shoes for flat feet and overpronation.

They are even qualified as women’s therapeutic shoes under code A5500 of the Diabetic Shoe Bill! 

Better yet, Orthofeet offer a 60-day wear test, so you can test the pair for up to 2 months and return if you aren’t completely satisfied. What’s not to love!?

Walking Shoes Comparison Table

How to Choose the Best Walking Shoes For Flat Feet – Buying Guide

Finding the best walking sneakers for flat feet can be a daunting task  – to save yourself pain, money and time, its important that you choose wisely!

To help you in your search, we’ve written up this handy buyers guide which will outline the key factors to consider when looking for supportive shoes.

Once you’re through reading it, you should have no doubts about which is the right pair for you.

Chat With Your Doctor

Before buying anything, you should take careful stock of the state of your feet. Not all flat feet are created equal!

Some flat footers might have a tight Achilles tendon, outward facing toes, or flexible flat feet, in which case the arch returns to normal when seated.

The severity of your flat feet varies widely based on your age and lifestyle, as well as how your feet became flat in the first place.

Children typically outgrow their flat-footedness, while adult acquired flat feet typically remain flat for life.

Because flat feet can cause serious back pain, bunions and tendon damage, you should speak with your doctor before exploring the best shoes to deal with your specific case.

Your doctor might prescribe a custom orthotic device (shoe insert created with a mold), or recommend a specific type of removable insert to put in your shoes.

You don’t want to spend time researching and investing in the best walking shoes only to regret it later because you didn’t properly evaluate the unique state of your feet!

Heel

Many flat footers suffer from overpronation, which is when your foot rolls inward as you step forward.

Overpronation reduces the shock absorbing capability of your arches.

It can cause serious pain and even damage your tendon (the muscle that connects the inside of your foot to the calf muscle, and supports you while walking).

To mitigate this, you need a shoe with a firm sole and heel support – a reinforced heel will do the trick.

A shoe with a reinforced heel will protect your calf muscle and Achilles tendon.

Width and Sizing

Most people with flat feet need extra room in the front of the shoe – to be safe, go for a wide-fit.

The front of the shoe must be roomy enough that it doesn’t overcrowd your toes.

The reduced pressure on the front portion of your foot can actually reduce pain and bunions.

Insoles

Insoles are a flat-footer’s best friend. The best shoes for flat feet will have built-in cushioned insoles that already provide good arch support.

If you can’t find a shoe with good arch support, definitely invest in shoe inserts. Insertable insoles are usually made from gel, foam or rubber.

These will serve as a buffer between your feet and potentially painful shoes.

Remember that if you choose to go with removable inserts, you must maintain them to preserve their longevity.

How to Clean Your Insoles Without Damaging Them

FAQs About Walking Sneakers For Flat Feet

Q: Do flat feet need arch support?

A: Yes – if your flat feet are causing you pain, investing in a pair of supportive, well-fitted shoes can help relieve some of that.

Arch support like fitted insoles and orthotics can help mitigate pressure on your arches and this reduce pain.

Q: What walking shoes do podiatrists recommend?

A: For flat feet, podiatrists recommend shoes with quality arch support. According to the American Board of Pediatric Surgery, arch support supports proper alignment and allows the big toe joint more mobility.

Another recommendation is to buy a shoe with a stiff heel counter and a wide toe-box to prevent overcrowding of toes and decrease potential for bunions.

The most important part of buying new shoes is that you get the right size – if your shoe is too big or too small, you could run into problems down the road.

You should consider having your foot measured with a Brannock Device to determine the right length and width for you.

This will save you a lot of problems in the long run!

Q: Can flat feet be corrected?

A: This depends on what caused your flat feet, how serious your case is, and how old you are.

Child flat feet can often be outgrown, but adult-acquired flat feet usually stay flat.

Often, flat feet can be helped with braces, orthotics, and other non-surgical treatments such as stretching routines.

Physical therapy is also used to correct flat feet if they are the result of overuse injuries or consistently poor form during exercise/activity.

Tips For Choosing Walking Shoes For Flat Feet

#1: Check the heels and insoles

Remember to check for an integrated insole and a reinforced heel, as per reasons outlined in the buying guide above!

This will relieve pain from sore tendons and overpronation.

#2: Go for a wide-fit shoe

Also make sure you can buy a wide-fit shoe, if it is available. This will prevent overcrowding of your toes and make for an overall more breathable, comfortable experience.

#3: Speak to your doctor!

This is the most important tip on our list! Be sure to chat with your doctor about the severity and state of your flat feet.

Speaking with an expert offers you a better shot at finding a shoe that won’t exacerbate your flat feet, but will support them and ease your pain overall.

Summary

Now you know all about how to find a good pair of walking shoes for your flat feet – it is indeed possible!

We hope our reviews and buyers guide have helped you with your selection process. Pretty soon you’ll be walking with no pain at all.

Thanks for reading and happy shopping!

How We Researched

To come up with the top walking 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