TheCrossFitShoes is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.

15 Best Walking Shoes for Flat Feet Reviewed: Buyer’s Guide 2024

Special walking sneakers for flat feet? Should I really focus on that, is that even a thing?

Definitely yes!

If you don’t want to get injuries or some severe complications, particularly with your ankles, knees, legs, and even back in the future then you must rethink your sneaker game.

Walking has become a very popular activity due to COVID restrictions so it is in your best interest to get the right pair!

Best Walking Shoes to Buy For Flat Feet And Overpronation: Comparison Table:

ImageProduct
  • SHOE SIZE: "D" = Medium width, "EE" = Wide width, "B" = Narrow width,...
  • MAXIMUM SUPPORT: Our Extended Progressive Diagonal Rollbar...
  • SLIP-RESISTANT, SECURE FIT: The forefoot MC Pod construction and an...
  • This is the 411v2.
  • Leather upper
  • Medicare / HCPCS code = A5500, may be eligible for Medicare...
  • Material: Full grain leather OR suede with a rubber sole
  • Shoe Closure: Space lacing closure system
  • Comfort Features: One of our most popular models for people with...
  • Walking sneaker featuring lace-up vamp, mesh tongue, and logo applique...
  • Engineered asymmetrical sole for bio-mechanical fit
  • Walk Trac patented outsole design for smooth transition
  • BEST FOR: High-performance fitness walking.
  • MADE FOR WOMEN FIT: Designed for a woman’s unique foot shape, muscle...
  • MATERIALS: Lightweight breathable mesh, leather and faux leather...
  • Premium, full-grain, water repellent leather uppers and action lacing...
  • Breathable, moisture-wicking 100% polyester mesh liner with PU foam...
  • Podiatrist-developed biomechanical removable orthotic features an...
  • Monochromatic sneaker featuring ghillie lacing and padded collar
  • Leather upper
  • Removable polyurethane footbeds
  • Rubber outsole
  • Lace-up leather walking shoe featuring perforations for breathability...
  • Wavespring technology in heel and forefoot for cushioning
  • Slip-resistant outsole for traction
  • Non-marking walking shoe with padded tongue and collar and durable...
  • Grid cushioning unit
  • Walk-Trac comfort outsole

Wanna more details?

Keep reading and take this chance to get rid of constant pains, blisters, and tiredness, caused by flat feet, overpronation, or extremely wide feet.

Having tested about 200 walking shoes from different brands, our experts concluded that even though most famous sports footwear manufacturers produce some models for feet with deformations, it’s better to opt for less-known brands, specializing in pediatric issues, when it comes to walking sneakers.

Firstly, they are narrowly focused and experienced enough in dealing with feet problems.

Secondly, they’re usually made of very high-quality materials.

Besides, the majority of them (such brands as Brooks, Vionic, InStride) is approved by the American Pediatric Medical Association, which makes them even more significant and worthy.

In order to make this choice easier for you, we’ve prepared top lists for different feet issues, and you can see them right now!

1. Brooks Addiction Walker

Brooks Addiction Walker Walking Shoes

The Brooks Addiction Walker is a must-have for those who have been searching for shoes able to give great support to low arches.

Indeed, hundreds of walkers with flat feet that are struggling to find a pair of walking sneakers that can fix their problem, have chosen Brooks Addiction to enjoy a supported, smooth, secure, controlled, and easy walking experience.

In spite of the fact, this shoe is available only in black and white full-grain leather material, and in brown suede material, the model is in great demand.

Especially, since it comes both in traditional lace-up closure and slip-on styles.

The main focus of these sneakers is motion control and arch support to correct overpronation that is caused by naturally flat feet.

Also, the Brooks Addiction Sneaker is recommended for people with Plantar Fasciitis pain – another deformation that requires special treatment.

But what makes Brooks Addiction Walker so special?

Special technologies like Extended Progressive Diagonal Rollbar (PDRB), which dramatically reduces the amount of stress and risk of injury to the knees, ankles, hips, and back; HydroFlow Technology, Full-Length MoGo Midsole Compound, and Durable Cushsole for incredible support and shock-absorption.

Another huge feature of this shoe is MC Pod Configuration, which gives exceptional motion control, keeping your feet in a correct and balanced position throughout the whole gate cycle.

PROS

  • Both lace-up and Velcro designs are available.
  • The shoe is built very durable to last for a long time.
  • Perfect fit for overpronators and pronation control due to the Extended Progressive Diagonal Rollbar.
  • Deep enough to allow your own orthotics.
  • A reputable brand, member of the Sustainable Apparel Coalition.
  • Motion control.
  • Durable build.
  • Good traction on a variety of surfaces.

CONS

  • High price.
  • Rather a bulky silhouette.
  • Poor choice of color options (classic black and white in leather; brown in suede).
  • A bit short straps in the latest models.

2. New Balance 411V2

NEW BALANCE 411V2 WALKING SHOE

Meet another sturdy walking sneaker from the New Balance family, represented both in the men’s version and the female one, which is slightly lighter in weight.

The New Balance 411V2 is the first update of the model – it has everything needed for deformed arches.

An all-terrain outsole is made to tackle all surfaces possible, and its padding and arch support are represented by a

This shoe will give you an odor-free, dry, and cozy in-shoe feel, relieve the feet pains and tiredness during the day, and become a fitting detail of your next outfit.

PROS

  • Features excellent shock absorption.
  • Walking Strike Path on the outsole.
  • A narrow heel width, high instep.
  • CUSH midsole for shock absorption and durability.
  • Great in-shoe feel.

CONS

  • Runs a little bit small (order at least half size up).

Best Walking Shoes for Wide Flat Feet:Best Walking Shoes

3. Propet Stability Walker Medicare Sneaker

PROPET STABILITY WALKER MEDICARE SNEAKER

Unlike a big amount of sneakers for flat feet, Propet Stability has been specially designed to help those who suffer from flat feet, including people with diabetes.

And more than 1,000 happy customers can’t be wrong, choosing this Medicare-approved shoe, right?

Besides this stability gives an incredible feeling of walking on the clouds (even though you’ve got flat feet, which used to hurt a lot!), it’s also available in all width beginning from narrow B to Extra Wide 5E.

Coming in both full-grain leather and nubuck designs, this walking sneaker provides reliable stability, traction, and support in every step.

Superior comfort is guaranteed due to the PU insole with heel pad, a molded EVA midsole reinforces the shock absorption, and well-padded tongue and collars complete this effect.

That’s why the Propet Stability Walker Medicare is a favorite of many people with feet issues.

PROS

  • The full-width range is available.
  • Medicare-approved for diabetic use.
  • Removable cushioned orthotics.
  • Speed lacing closure system.
  • Proper arch support.
  • Slip-resistant rubber outsole.
  • Super stable.
  • Budget-friendly price.

CONS

  • Not true to size (run small).
  • Bulky construction.
  • Lack of color options.

4. Saucony Women’s 5260-1 Sneaker

Saucony Grid Omni Walker Walking Shoes for Flat Feet

Saucony Women’s 5260-1 Sneaker is not a well-known brand in the world of sports footwear, nevertheless, it’s extremely popular among people with different foot deformations along with low arches are among them.

Made of quality leather and breathable textile, this walking sneaker exudes confidence and comfort, while the sturdy rubber sole gives all the stability and support you need.

The platform of the Saucony Women’s 5260-1 Sneaker is designed in such a way to prevent the wearer’s heel from lying at an elevation from the ground, reducing the stress placed on the Plantar Fascia in this way.

They’re just supported at all times.

Coming to cushioning, this shoe features the Visible Rearfoot Grid System, able to help any type of foot – from the minimal to moderate overpronator.

Besides that, shock absorption and comfort are also guaranteed by SRC Crash Pads, located in the heels, HRC Stroble Board on the inside, Forefoot HRC, and Superior Rebound Compound (SRC) Impact Zone that sets your feet in the correct position for a smooth transition with every stride.

Arch support, which is essential for walkers with flat feet, is also on top due to the Comfortable Midfoot Support Bridge.

The Saucony Grid Omni Walker is gonna be a great choice for those who want to get high-quality, comfy walking sneakers for flat feet, having paid a really budget-friendly amount of money.

PROS

  • Biomechanical fit design.
  • Stability on several levels.
  • Smooth traction and grip.
  • Quality and durable materials used.
  • Breathability.
  • Very affordable price.

CONS

  • Not true to size (run smaller).
  • Only available for women.
  • Two basic color options are possible only.

5. RYKA Women’s Dash 3

RYKA Women's Dash 3 Walking Shoe

Produced “by women and for women”, RYKA shoes have gained worldwide acclaim as a company able to follow all women’s needs.

Due to the affordability of the brand and its specific fit, RYKA sneakers become more and more popular on the market.

This walking sneaker is a good option for people with underpronation, as it gives excellent cushioning for your ‘concave’ arches (Molded EVA midsole and Anatomical Precise-Return footbed).

Also, the RYKA Dash features a great grip on the front and sides to help you move more effortlessly, while the foot is securely fixed inside by the adjustable lace-up closure and supportive upper material.

This update to the RYKA’s heritage has inherited all the strength of its predecessors, wrapping them into a new feminine design for ladies who care about their feet.

PROS

  • Budget-friendly option.
  • 12 various color options are available.
  • Women-specific fit.
  • Available in different widths.
  • Good for under pronators, people with flat feet.
  • Exceptional breathability.
  • Removable footbed.

CONS

  • Not true-to-size (run small).
  • No models for men.
  • Not very lightweight.

6. Vionic Men Orthaheel Technology Classic Walker

As well as the previous brand, Vionic is usually associated with flat feet, pronation, heel spurs, bunions, and other feet issues. They design sneakers to help people with various feet conditions walk comfortably and pain-free.

It is a good motion control shoe available in both men’s and women’s versions.

The Classic Walker from Vionic is a great example of top quality made in advanced podiatrist design – “picky” podiatrists often recommend these very shoes to their clients as part of correcting serious overpronation problems.

From the supportive upper of the sneaker to biomechanical removable anti-bacterial orthotic on the inside – the sneaker is super comfy and secure.

The shock-absorbing midsole reduces pressure on the back, knees, and ankles so that the wearer can hardly feel the impact, enjoying his walking experience.

Vionic Orthaheel Technology Classic Walker is an American Podiatric Medical Association approved for providing excellent support and control for flat feet.

Choose from 4 different color options and adjust an appropriate width of this walking sneaker to maximally benefit from your daily walk.

PROS

  • Removable anti-bacterial orthotics.
  • Received APMA Seal of Acceptance.
  • Proper shock-absorption.
  • Breathability & moisture management of the lining and the upper (Moisture Wicking Lining with PU Foam Base).
  • Water resistance.
  • Good midsole support system.

CONS

  • Not true to size.
  • Wear out quickly (not durable enough).

7. Easy Spirit Women’s Punter Athletic

EASY SPIRIT WOMEN’S PUNTER ATHLETIC SHOE

Irrespective of where and why you’re heading, Easy Spirit Punter Athletic for women, who are always on the go, will give you everything to enjoy this walking experience, staying a devoted companion every step of the way.

This pair of walkers has a sturdy yet lightweight full-grain leather upper with breathable perforations.

The collar and tongue are very well padded, and the cushioned insoles can be removed effortlessly.

The traditional lacing system, along with a sturdy sole, makes the Punter secure and supportive enough to claim for one of the best walking shoes for wide flat feet.

PROS

  • Affordability.
  • Heel pull-loop for an easy on and off.
  • Foam-padded shock-absorbing midsole for optimal comfort.
  • Durability.

CONS

  • Too bulky design for women.
  • Some customers noticed it’s not completely true to size (about 0.5 sizes smaller).

8. Brooks Men Beast ’16 / Brooks Women Ariel ’16

FOR MEN:

Brooks Mens Beast '16

FOR WOMEN:

Brooks Womens Ariel

This sweet couple of the Beast and the Ariel from Brooks is an absolute favorite of people looking for motion control, stable and secure stride.

These sneakers will come in handy for flat feet with overpronation issues to make every step super light.

Despite both Brooks Beast and Brooks Ariel were initially aimed for running, their specific characteristics and technologies also allow them to wear them as walking sneakers.

The progressive diagonal rollbar provides improved control over overpronation for a smooth ride, the adaptable cushioning DNA midsole provides maximum comfort, while moisture-managing materials ensure your feet stay dry, odor-free, and cool.

Wanna fantastic support in a bright, attractive wrapping, which is constructed with specific gender foot features in mind? Look no further than the Ariel ’16 and the Beast ’16 from Brooks.

PROS

  • Gender-specific fit.
  • Attractive external design and a great variety of color options.
  • Proper
  • support.
  • Good grip on a variety of surfaces.
  • Removable Ultimate Sockliner.
  • Exceptional breathability & moisture management due to the Element Mesh and Element Lining.
  • Adaptable cushion.
  • Supportive midsole unit.

CONS

  • Rather a high price.
  • heavyweight.
  • Rigid feeling underfoot.
  • Not true to size (runs a little small).
  • Thin fabric at the forefoot.

9. New Balance Men’s 928v3

New Balance Men's 928v3 Walking Shoe

And, finally, the last, but definitely not least – the New Balance 928v3.

This shoe is one of the most versatile walkers for feet with issues available on market today.

It is recommended by podiatrists for high arches, flat fees, underpronation, bunions, hammertoes, back and knee pain, and extra-wide feet. Medicare even includes the NB 928 into the list of shoes for the diabetic code.

The Graphite Rollbar is minimizing the rolling heels and ankles inwards or outwards, preventing the feet from injuries and pain.

Meanwhile, the ABZORB cushioning system is reducing shock and dispersing the force on the point of impact.

The upper of the shoe is made almost completely of leather, which doesn’t prevent breathability too much.

And on the inside, you’ll find a seamless Phantom Liner, able to keep your feet fresh and odor-free all day.

PROS

  • Suitable for all kinds of foot problems.
  • Good for on feet all day long.
  • Removable orthotics.
  • Available both in lace-up and Velcro design.
  • Medically approved for Diabetics.
  • Better-looking and less clunky than previous versions of the shoe.

CONS

  • Poor choice of color options.
  • Rather expensive shoes.
  • These sneakers are not meant for going on long-distance running, as they may wear out quickly.

10. Spira Women’s Classic Leather

SPIRA Women’s Classic is suitable for women with flat feet, it’s gained popularity for its comfort.

Completely made of leather, this walking sneaker features breathable perforations at the toe and side areas to prevent you from sweating.

Compression-molded EVA midsole incorporating a single WaveSpring technology in the heel and in the forefoot.

It serves as a cushioning mechanism, reducing the pressure felt by the Plantar Fascia every time you walk or run. And a built-in arch shank bridge allows for added torsional support.

PROS

  • Lace-up and strap designs are available.
  • Removable footbed.
  • Built-in arch shank bridge for added torsional support.

CONS

  • Issues with sizing.
  • Lack of choice concerning color options.
  • Bulky construction.

11. Saucony ProGrid Integrity ST2

SAUCONY PROGRID INTEGRITY ST2 WALKING SHOE

What makes this one of the best walkers for supination? – The advanced technology combined with great stability and comfort do!

Designed for runners, but ideal for walkers, Saucony ProGrid Integrity ST2 is meant for everyone suffering from any type of foot complaint.

It’s made of natural materials: full-grain leather or high-quality suede, placed on the sturdy rubber sole.

Saucony ProGrid Integrity ST2 provides fantastic midfoot cushioning for slightly high to high arches, high insteps.

All mentioned above is guaranteed thanks to ForeFoot Stretch ZoneTM technology, super-padded tongue, and collar, High Rebound Compound (HRC) in the forefoot, Heel ProGrid technology, and Compression-Molded EVA foam in the midsole.

So, if you’re looking for a classic walking sneaker, able to give all your high arches need, then the Saucony ProGrid Integrity ST2 Walker is a definite must-have.

PROS

  • Thick and sturdy midsole.
  • Good arch support.
  • Removable insoles.
  • A stable heel platform helps to avoid supination.
  • Roomy forefoot.
  • High quality of the materials.

CONS

  • Very affordable.
  • Only classic black, white, and stone color options.
  • Runs narrow.

12. Asics GEL-Quickwalk 2 SL

ASICS GEL-QUICKWALK 2 SL WALKING SHOE

Offering you superb comfort in cool athletic design, Asics GEL-Quickwalk 2 SL, is made for people with normal pronation and slight supination.

The sneaker comes with some amazing features, making it a favorite among all ‘anti-supination’ shoes on market these days.

Among them is the Rearfoot GEL Cushioning System famous for its shock attenuation during the impact phase for a smooth transition to midstance; the AHAR outsole for exceptional grip and durability, and CMEVA Midsole Material for extra cushioning all over the sole.

ASICS GEL-Quickwalk has a profusely padded tongue and collar, preventing chafing and protecting the foot, while the soft textile lining gives the incredible in-shoe feel for a natural walking stride.

PROS

  • Affordable item.
  • Available for men and women.
  • No break-in period.
  • Walking specific geometry (Walking Bevel).

CONS

  • Insoles are not removable.
  • Not true to size (run 0.5-1 size small).

13. InStride Newport Men’s Comfort Therapeutic Extra Depth

InStride Newport Men's Comfort Therapeutic Extra Depth

InStride Newport Comfort Therapeutic Extra Depth was designed to fit even the most difficult feet with comfort and stability.

Offered both with Velcro and lace-up closures, this model allows for an exceptional adjusted and natural in-shoe feel.

Besides wide flat feet, this walking sneaker is able to support moderate conditions of swelling, neuropathy, hammertoe, and bunions.

Built on a sturdy CMEVA midsole, the Newport features Custom Fit System (CFS), which is represented with three removable inserts.

Created in conjunction with a team of Podiatrists and shoe construction specialists, InStride provides both a protective function and relief from regular footwear thanks to its ability to provide a precise and comfy fit

PROS

  • Velcro & lace-up closures are available.
  • Extra-depth allows accommodating removable orthotics.
  • Added stability in the heel area.
  • Good-looking contemporary style.
  • Width is ranging from medium to extra wide.
  • Recommended by podiatrists and some other medical specialists.
  • Adjustable fit.

CONS

  • Expensive.
  • Only classic color options are available.

14. New Balance MW877

NEW BALANCE MW877 WALKING SHOE

The New Balance 877 with a suede and mesh upper has inherited all its best features (like iconic sole, cool athletic design) from the favorite 577.

When it comes to a long road ahead, ABZORB midsole with premium footbeds and soft, padded lining on the inside is essential to feeling all the comfort you’re over pronated flat feet need. 

The durable rubber outsole, which is also flexible at the same time, stabilizes the stride and guides the foot through the walking gait cycle.

Try this stylish shoe from New Balance to convince yourself that world-known brands also can manufacture reliable, quality, and supportive footwear, relieving most feet conditions’ symptoms.

PROS

  • Walking Strike Path technology to stabilize your foot through your natural gait cycle.
  • Enhanced air circulation & moisture management.
  • Perfect for people with overpronation.
  • Created to provide maximum resilience.
  • Cool external design.

CONS

  • Rather expensive shoes.
  • A bit narrow toe box.

15. ASICs GEL-Tech Walker Neo 4

ASICs GEL-Tech Walker Neo 4

Spending most of the day on your feet?

Asking about ideal arch support and comfort for your flat feet? This updated version of the ASICs GEL-Tech Walker Neo will give you the freedom to move in any direction and position without the risk of injury, pain, or overpronation.

You’re gonna ask what is special about these walking sneakers?

The thing is they feature DuoMax and Trusstic supportive and stabilizing systems that come with a super lightweight, responsive, and gender-specific midsole, which is not only properly cushioned and durable but also gives all the protection and support a flat foot needs.

Moreover, the shoe provides an exceptional upper fit: it’s a blend of improved breathability, internal comfort, anti-microbial protection, moisture management, and outstanding design.

With ASICs GEL-Tech Walker Neo 4 you’ll say goodbye to lower back and knee pain, heavy feet feeling, constant fatigue, and insecure walks.

PROS

  • Quality stretch material (Biomorphic Fit Upper), strategically placed on the upper of the shoe, reduces buckling and any potential for irritation.
  • Breathability and moisture management due to Ortholite Sock liner and mesh inserts on the upper.
  • Sturdy rubber sole, able to attenuate shock during impact and toe-off phases, which is perfect for flat-footed walkers.
  • Lightweight design.
  • Removable insole – can be replaced with another orthotic.
  • Support, stability, and security offered by the Duomax Support System.
  • Gender-specific fit.

CONS

  • Poor choice of color options.
  • Rather a high price.
  • These sneakers are not meant for going on long-distance running, as they may wear out quickly.

Walking Shoes for Flat Feet: Buyer’s Guide:Shoes for Flat Feet

The following key points are essentials when choosing a perfect shoe for walking or hiking, no matter if your feet are flat or not, arches high or low.

So, let’s figure it out.

Sturdy Sole:

This is the basis: make sure that the sole is firm and inflexible in the heel and midsole areas so that you’ll be able to make the shoe super versatile, using it in a great variety of environments.

Wide Toe Box:

The toe box or the front part of the shoe should have enough space for a natural in-shoe feel.

The right toe box doesn’t make your toes bend when walking, however, it shouldn’t be overly roomy as well.

Supportive Heel:

In order to prevent your ankle from bending and twisting, the heel must be really supportive even being under great pressure.

Quality Materials:

…which are able to breathe!

Full-grain leather with breathable perforations or waterproof GORE-TEX material is ideal option.

Look for high-quality materials (don’t omit sole rubber as well), and verify authenticity carefully to avoid forgery, as it’s all about your health.

Arch Support:

Truth be told, this one depends. Different arch support is required for different arches.

Are you flat-footed or high arched? Bear your foot structure in mind when buying your next walking sneakers.

Multi-Surface Outer Sole:

Flat-footed requires extra care and stability or else you will have sore feet. But the pair of walking shoes with stiff outer soles can be of great help.

Even if you remain in these shoes for a long duration, like running. Your feet will remain comfy and there would be the least pain.

But there is another factor to consider except the anti-slippery outer sole.

Check out a pair with a multi-surface option as it comes with extra ease and stability.

Even the pressure distribution and pain relief are great.

Dual Material Uppers:

Any shoes made with durable uppers will last longer. So durability is another key aspect while buying walking shoes. Suede, leather, or synthetic mesh are the most common material used in manufacturing.

With these materials comes extended flexibility as well as gives a sleeker look. So if you are a fashion freak you will love such a pair.

Moisture Absorbing Lining and Footbed:

Look for a pair that not only provides ventilation but also absorbs moisture. Now, a pair with such lining and footbed so it keeps the inner side cool.

Due to the low temperature, there would be less perspiration and minimal stench. Also, this keeps any sort of bacteria from growing inside. Bamboo is an optimal choice used to make such a lining and footbed.

Types of Feet Deformations: How to Recognize?

Types of Feet Deformations

With every single step you take, your foot naturally rolls inward to absorb the shock, support the arch, and prevent you from possible injuries.

In case feet roll inward or outward too much, shock absorption disappears completely or just becomes less effective, while the risk of injury dramatically grows.

Thus, three types of pronation are distinguished:

Neutral Pronation:

Neutral pronation means the normal, healthy position of the arch and joints.

When walking or running, the foot lands on the outside of the hell, after that pronates a bit (rolls inward) in order to absorb the shock and support body weight.

Injuries are less likely with this type of foot pronation thanks to proper shock absorption during the impact phase.

Foot Type: normal-sized foot.

Overpronation:

You’re an overpronator if your feet land on the outside of the heel, then rolls inward excessively (actually, pronates), and all the body weight is transferred to the inner edge of the foot.

When pushing off, big and second toes do the majority of the work, and the pronating feet are more likely to have bunions and heel spurs.

Foot Type: flat feet and low arches.

Underpronation (Supination)

Supination is opposite to overpronation – it means that when contacting the ground, the outer side of the heel hits the ground with little or without any pronation.

It causes a large transmission of shock through the lower leg, and the foot becomes more prone to an ankle sprain and shin splints.

Foot Type: high arches usually (however, the combo of under pronation and flat feet is also possible).

Gait Analysis at Home: How-To

Underpronation

There are several ways to determine if you’re an overpronator, under pronator, or have a normal gait. And one of the easiest is to use a special website.

All you need is to capture a short video (around 30 seconds) of you running on the treadmill, upload it to the website, and get the result.

Also, you can watch that video and analyze it by yourself following the simple tips and explanations, given in this video.

Overpronation:

Causes:
  • A result of a tight calf muscle.
  • A result of proximal control.
  • Because of the weakness of the posterior tibial muscle.
  • Forefoot Varus.
What Can You Do About It?
  • Visit the podiatrist and follow the instructions
  • Find appropriate orthotics and wear them regularly
  • Choose special footwear for overpronation
  • Properly examine your issue
  • Do special exercises regularly https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7goFJQeGtmk
What To Look For When Choosing a Walking Sneaker?
  • Proper support
  • Structured cushioning shoes
  • Decent arch support

Underpronation (Supination)

Causes
  • Inborn (biomechanical alignment of the bones in the lower extremities)
  • Tightening of the calf muscles
  • Weak and unstable ankles
  • Footwear that doesn’t provide enough shock-absorption
What Can You Do About It?
  • Do running with a coach to improve your stride
  • Train and strengthen your calves, ankles, hamstrings, and the surrounding muscles
  • Stretch the muscles after doing exercises
  • Practice balancing on one foot or on an unstable surface
  • Wear shoes that provide extra cushioning
  • Look for arch support in the shoes
How to Detect?

Besides the visual gait analysis, which we’ve already discussed, you can try to determine if you’ve got any of these problems and states (as they are typical for people with supination):

  • Knee heel, and ankle pain
  • Lower back pain
  • Muscle strain and sprains
  • Ankle inversion sprains
  • Shin Splints
  • Foot arch pain
  • Heel and hip stress fractures
  • Achilles Tendinopathy
What To Look For When Choosing a Walking Sneaker?
  • A lot of cushioning to avoid a strong impact
  • Lightweight to reduce pressure
  • GEL-based or single-density midsole for stability

Plantar Fasciitis

Plantar Fasciitis

Under pronators, overpronators, and flat-footed people often face such a problem as Plantar Fasciitis (or heel spurs) – a common cause of heel pain, which is very intensive.

Causes:
  • Age (common between 40-60)
  • Activities that place a lot of stress on heels like long-distance running, ballistic jumping activities, ballet dancing
  • Abnormal way of walking
  • Flat foot or too high arch
  • Obesity
  • Working all day on your feet
What Can You Do About It?
  • Local ice massage applications reduce inflammation and pain
  • Do stretching exercises
  • Anti-inflammatory medications (ibuprofen)
  • Wear shoes with very soft and cushioned soles
  • Surgery (in case conservative treatment fails)
How To Detect?
  • The most evident indicator of Plantar Fasciitis is feeling pain in the heel when you get up in the morning, during massaging, driving, or walking
  • Checking your reflexes, muscle tone, coordination, balance
  • Do some test at the physician’s (X-ray, Ultrasound imaging)

What To Look For When Choosing a Walking Sneaker?

  • Look for the very soft and cushioned midsole and insole (but avoid overly flexible soles with an effect of barefoot walking)
  • Ability to replace the footbed with another orthotic
  • Heel and arch support is important
  • Perfect fit (size, width, in-shoe feel)

What Causes Flat-Footedness?

There is no certain situation for what causes it. For instance, some people are born flat-footedness. Whereas others might develop it later due to various reasons.

Obesity, pregnancy, standing for long periods, running. These are the common causes that led to flat-footedness. The constant activities put force on the feet.

The natural movement of a foot is defined by the term; Pronation. In this method, all the weight shifts to the ball of the foot from the heel.

As for flat feet, it’s called Over-pronation which prevails all the time.

It has nothing to do with movement only but is a stance that the body develops.

Under this condition, the foot rolls inwards to an excess, towards the arch. This posture only makes people uneasy and enhances the risks of injuries.

Due to this inwards rolling the natural alignment gets affected and altered. Hence the stress during impact also increases manifold leading to severe injuries.

Key Features of Walking Shoes for Flat Feet:Shoes for Flat Feet

Making the right choice counts various factors especially for something like walking shoes.

Hence to guide you a bit we have jotted down the key features of the best walking shoes. Let’s have a quick look at them

Flexible toe box:

When picking up a walking shoe for flat feet, a firm outer sole is a prime factor. But at the same time, you also need to ensure the pair offers flexibility.

In the toe area or toe box, the right amount of flexibility allows easy bending. Hence you feel it pretty facile to walk with comfort. One of the best options to consider is a round toe box.

Arch Support:

Due to the inner rolling, walking shoes for flat feet have a special feature. These come with ample arch support so the excessive rolling won’t cause discomfort.

This is a major feature that normal shoes usually lack. So you must opt for a good pair that has a comparatively lifted mid area.

The shoes with such arches especially focus on the arch and provide enough support.

It also helps to relieve the excessive pressure that your feet undergo.

Breathable Design:

If your walking shoes can’t offer proper ventilation, your feet will ultimately stink. A major problem we often face is excessive sweating; occurs due to less breathability.

Thus always ensure that the pair you pick allows the proper flow of air. Shoes that come with vents on the upper side are a great option. With proper airflow, not only you avoid bacterial growth and sweating.

But your feet remain cool even after long hours.

Cushioned Inner Sole:

If the pair you pick doesn’t have a cushioned inner sole, it will only make the pain worse. Your feet will be sore often so a cushioned sole is a priority.

Those made with memory foam or rubber can be the best options to start with.

To produce lightweight and comfy inner soles the manufactures also prefer air technology.

Flat feet need more comfort, support, and stability than normal feet. Only then you can be at ease and walk without getting sore feet.

Benefits of Walking Shoes for Flat Feet:

For people with normal feet walking, shoes don’t hold much importance. But for those with flat feet know its real worth as it has a unique shape.

For flat-footed people, the raised center provides stability while walking. Due to this feature, the bodyweight distributes equally through the feet.

With flat feet, there are high chances of your feet rolling on the inner side. It happens due to the lack of arch and causes faster leg exhaustion, soreness, etc.

Hence such issues need special motion-control shoes while running/walking. Heel pain, shin splints, stress fractures, knee inflammation, bunions, chronic lower back pain.

These are a few main issues that arise due to flat feet. So for alleviating the problems the most beneficial solution is walking shoes.

Bottom Line:

To wear or not to wear? Special footwear – for specific feet issues?

Definitely, it’s completely up to you if to buy a new pair of walking sneakers for flat feet, or to keep walking in those worn unstable shoes you’re used to.

However, technologies are developing rapidly, and thankfully, nowadays the podiatrist-recommended shoe is not something excessively bulky and terrible.

Now you can choose from lots of styles and color options – and this choice is gonna be healthy!