Best shoes for flat feet
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Short answer
If flat feet ache, a stability shoe with a firm midsole is the place to start. The Brooks Adrenaline GTS 25 guides the foot without feeling stiff and holds the APMA Seal. For walking and long days standing, the Brooks Addiction Walker 2 and New Balance 928v3 offer more motion control, and the 928v3 comes in widths up to 6E. If your flat feet don't hurt, you don't need special shoes.
Illustration Best overall
Brooks Adrenaline GTS 25
A stability shoe that guides the foot and knee instead of blocking motion. It suits flexible flat feet and people whose arches collapse as they walk.
- Stability (GuideRails)
- 10 mm listed drop
- Narrow to extra-wide
- APMA Seal of Acceptance
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Illustration Softer stability ride
ASICS Gel-Kayano 33
Stability with more cushioning than most guidance shoes. A good alternative to the Adrenaline if you want a softer ride.
- Stability
- 8 mm listed drop
- D, 2E, 4E (men's)
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Illustration Best walking shoe
Brooks Addiction Walker 2
A firm, motion-control leather walking shoe. Heavy, but very stable, which many people with flat feet find comfortable.
- Leather walking shoe
- Motion-control rollbar
- 12 mm drop
- Widths B to 4E
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Illustration Best for wide feet
New Balance 928v3 Walking Shoe
A stable, roomy walking shoe with an unusual range of widths. The removable footbed makes room for custom orthotics.
- Leather walking shoe
- Rollbar stability
- Widths up to 6E (men's)
- Removable footbed
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The NHS recommends wide, comfortable, low-heeled shoes and supportive insoles for painful flat feet. These ease pain and fatigue; they won't create an arch. Add a supportive insole if your shoe's stock insole is flat.
What APMA says to check in any shoe
- Heel counter: squeeze the back of the heel. It should be firm and not collapse.
- Midsole: the shoe shouldn't twist much through the middle.
- Toe bend: it should bend at the toes, but not too easily.
- Fit: measure both feet late in the day, shop for the larger foot, and wear the socks you'll use. It should feel comfortable right away, with no "break-in".