The average American walks, on average, 3,000 to 4,000 steps a day. That’s a whole lot of walking and, because you’re constantly en route — whether sprinting to the office or walking around your neighborhood — it’s important to have the right shoes.
We don’t have to tell you that not all shoes were created equal (that’s why you’ll see some pairs for $5 and some for $500). But, not everyone’s feet were created equal as well. If you have flat feet (aka, not much arch support), you have even more cause for concern when hand-picking the perfect shoes for you, namely because you want to ensure you’re receiving the support you need.
“Characteristics of a flat feet include low-to-no arch when standing,” Anne Sharkey, DPM, board-certified podiatrist specializing in foot, ankle and rear foot construction with 11 years of clinical experience and Pedestrian Project ambassador, told the New York Post. “Here’s a simple way to assess your own arch structure: If you were to walk in wet sand or get your feet and step onto cement, a flat foot will be one in which the whole bottom of the foot will leave an imprint (as opposed to someone with a high arch where only the outer border and a portion of the arch will leave an imprint).”
Ahead, Dr. Sharkey outlined the best women’s shoes for flat feet in 2023, along with an in-depth FAQ section answering some of your flat foot-ridden questions.
And, don’t feel out of place — or, out of step — if you have flat feet. We know the struggle of browsing through shoeboxes at stores, feeling the base of the shoe and taking note of its support level (we couldn’t advance to ballet en pointe due to an “insufficient arch” and yes, are still bitter about it). Needless to say, we’re right on the same boat as you.
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According to Sharkey, the Brooks Dyad 11 Running Shoe has a “straight last, midsole support and is a stable shoe.” Its new, modern look paired with its smooth, cushioned comfort is recommended for road-running and walking, specifically.
The Sauchony Echelon 9 Running Shoe is an aesthetically pleasing pair recommended by Sharkey for its “straight last, midsole support and stable shoe [design].” Even better, they come in regular, wide and extra-wide sizing options —as well as other colors — to suit your style and perfect fit.
These shoes also boast a soft PWRRUN foam cushioning formula cushions with less weight. Now, doesn’t that sound like a dream?
Hitting the three characteristics Sharkey recommends, the Asics Gel-Kayano 29 Running Shoes are also a pair she stands by. Namely, you’ll be pleased to know these come in a rainbow of colors to choose from (and we mean a rainbow!), feature a lightweight design and are designed with patented FF BLAST PLUS cushioning in the midsole for softer landings and a more energized toe-off.
“The Brooks Ariel 20 Road-Running Shoes are stable and cushioned,” Sharkey highlights. “There’s also a wide toe box to allow for extra room for the toes to spread.”
More, the pair has garnered nearly 1,600 rave reviews on Amazon for its “super-soft cushioning” and “holistic support.”
Shop the New Balance 1540 V3 Running Shoe — a sweet splurge that’ll offer much-needed support.
“The pair comes with a straight last, midsole support and a stable shoe design,” Sharkey notes. Plus, more than 2,000 Amazon reviewers recommend the pair, too, for its “sleek and stylish” look and “cushioned support.”
Ah, if it wasn’t for the Hoka brand to take the internet by storm. Sharkey recommends the Gaviota 4 Stability Runnning Shoe for a sweet new addition to your footwear collection.
“Hoka’s Meta-rocker design in the midsole is perfect for improving running efficiency which can be a challenge in flatter feet,” she adds. “Hoka is also top of the game in cushioning and comfort.”
Another recommended pair from Hoka? The brand’s Arahi 6 Stability Running Shoe — just a smidge more affordable than the Gaviota 4s.
There isn’t much of a difference aside from the aesthetics, and Sharkey says this pair hits all the checkpoints she looks for in a pair suitable for flat feet.
“These are one of the most stable shoes available from Asics,” Sharkey says. “They’re designed with both comfort and stability in mind.”
Not to mention, they feature a softer and smoother design than most, serving as a functional option for overpronators (those whose gait eventually causes the arches of the feet to flatten more than normal) who seek a more cushioned step.
Out of all the Target-sold shoes designed for flat feet, Sharkey recommends the Reebok Floatride Energy Daily Running Shoes. They’re a more affordable pair compared to other models on the market and offer a lightweight feel and smooth, cushioned ride — especially good for bike-riding.
Enter a traditional pair of walking shoes that offer much support — for less than $100. Sharkey recommends the Saucony Integrity Walker 3 Walking Shoe for checking of all the boxes. Impressively, it comes in regular, wide, extra-wide and narrow size options, features a premium full-grain leather upper and is approved by the American Podiatric Medical Association.
Stay on-trend and supported with the New Balance 990 Sneaker, either in the V5 or V6 variation. They boast a similar look and are recommended by Sharkey for hitting all the criteria she touches on. Notably, this pair features a FuelCell foam, ENCAP midsole cushioning, a lightweight design and reflective accents designed to catch the light. Overall, it’s a pretty snazzy shoe.
One thing Sharkey loves? Vionic walking shoes for hitting all of the characteristics she seeks in a quality pair of shoes for flat feet.
The Captivate Sneaker comes in other fun colors to choose from. They’re classic, have a super light outsole and boast a breathable, sock-fit collar design.
Going on a hike soon? The Merrell MOAB 3 Hiking Shoe is readily available to order online and is an all-purpose, all-terrain pair that’s made of recycled materials and a breathable mesh upper. Additionally, this model was designed with Wolverine gold-rated leather for both durability and style, along with a patented Kinetic Fit Advanced footbed that contours to your foot for a more comfortable fit.
“This pair has a cushioned midsole, arch support and heel cushioning and shock absorption built-in,” Sharkey points out. “It has a rugged outsole for variable terrain.”
Hiking shoes have never looked so good than with the Keen Koven Waterproof Boot. This heavy-duty, well-supported pair is eco-friendly, made with waterproof leather and boasts breathable mesh.
“This pair has a high-top design for additional ankle stability,” Sharkey adds. “Its rugged rubber outsole with treads are helpful for uneven terrain.”
Yes, certain sandals are designed for flat feet — and we’re not complaining at all about it. Shop the OOFOS OOriginal Sport Sandal for less than $75. They come in a multitude of colors with more support than your typical sling-back.
“This pair absorbs 37% of shock,” Sharkey notes. “They have a deep heel cup for support and stability.”
Even better, she names this her “most recommended daily shoe” that’s great for the beach and pool.
“The Chaco Z/Cloud 2 Sandal are stable and rigid.” Sharkey points out. “They’re great for outdoor hiking and walking, offering solid arch support and a good outsole for navigating uneven terrain.”
Plus, you’ll adore the plenty of colors it comes in, along with is near-1,300 rave reviews on Amazon for being a “new favorite shoe” and coming with “great arch support.”
We didn’t know sandals suitable for flat feet could be so stylish until we came across the Vionic Solari Toe Post Sandal.
“I love Vionic for sandals and casual shoes for flat feet due to built-in arch support, support and stability,” Sharkey says. Plus, they come in a few colors and are surefire designer lookalikes.
Ahead, Sharkey outlines what to look for in a quality pair of shoes for flat feet, along with important notes pertaining to your arch.
Of course, flat feet will look — well, you know, flat. But, there are some key notes to keep in mind when scanning your foot.
“The foot structure is always assessed in standing,” Sharkey tells The Post. “One cannot accurately assess the arch structure when seated.”
More, those with flatter feet tend to have more shoe wear at the inner soles of their shoes.
Generally, Sharkey (and, podiatrists at large) considers three different arch levels: no/low arch, normal arch and high arch.
“A normal or high arched foot is going to have a gap between the ground and the bottom of the foot at the arch,” she explains. “The higher the arch, the less of the mid-portion, or arch, of the foot is in contact with the ground.”
The arch functions like a spring. According to Sharkey, the arch supports the weight of the body, absorbs the shock of activity and takes then converts energy during the gait cycle to propel us forward. The arch also provides support and stability.
“High arches are more rigid and stable and can more efficiently convert this energy,” Sharkey notes. “Flat feet are more flexible and unstable and are less energy efficient. It takes someone with flat feet more energy to perform activity than someone with higher arches.”
That said, those with flat feet will experience fatigue more easily. “How this plays into shoes is that shoes geared towards those with flat feet aim to provide extra support and stability to help decrease the load transmitted to the joints and increase efficiency,” she explains. “Wearing shoes without arch support if you have flat feet can cause pain and fatigue over time.”
“You should not have to ‘break in’ a pair of shoes,” Sharkey says. “Shoes that are targeted to your foot type and offer the proper support are going to decrease pain and fatigue and increase endurance for activity. In short, you should be able to more of what you love for longer without pain!”
Sharkey outlines what to take note of before purchasing a new pair of women’s shoes for flat feet.
“Finding a great pair of shoes is essential for those with flat feet. Hands down the shoe has to be comfortable. If it is uncomfortable when you first put it on, keep searching.”
Anne Sharkey, DPM, board-certified podiatrist specializing in foot, ankle and rear foot construction with 11 years of clinical experience and Pedestrian Project ambassador
While aesthetics will play a large role in determining which ones are your next pair, Sharkey recommends looking for a straight last, a stability shoe and motion control for more severe and/or painful flat feet.
Conveniently, Sharkey recommends these three characteristics when looking for a pair of walking shoes, too,.
When trekking on uneven terrain — especially with flat feet — you’ll want to ensure you’re wearing a good pair of hiking shoes.
According to Sharkey, she recommends the same characteristics above, with extra caution to the toe box; you’ll want to choose a pair with a wide toe box. Additionally, look for an outsole with good tread and traction for stability.
“Hiking shoes tend to be stiffer and more rigid so those with flat feet will benefit from hiking shoes with good arch support and cushioning,” she adds.
We hate to be the bearers of bad news but, according to Sharkey, flat feet cannot be corrected or reversed. “Instead, we aim to support the feet through shoes and orthotics or inserts,” she notes.
Keep in mind that arches do not develop until ages two or three, and feet continue to develop and change until between ages 6 to 9.
“Most flat feet are asymptomatic and require no treatment,” Sharkey concludes. “The vast majority of individuals whom experience discomfort from flat feet can be treated non-surgical.”
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