12 Best Walking Shoes for Flat Feet That Can Go Anywhere (2024)

12 Best Walking Shoes for Flat Feet That Can Go Anywhere (1)

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If you have ever experienced the pains that come with having flat feet, you’re not alone. Whether you’ve struggled with flat feet since childhood or a more recent injury has caused your condition, the results can be painful. Even short walks can become a struggle. Thankfully, the proper footwear can combat these pains and help create solutions to keep you active. The best walking shoes for flat feet provide comfort, support, and stability, and also prevent further damage.

Dr. Kim Lilley, head of research and development at FitFlop, explains that having flat feet simply means your arches have collapsed. “This tends to cause problems when the person’s weight bears as the natural impact-attenuating mechanisms are compromised,” she says. Symptoms range from foot and ankle pain, to knee, hip, and even back discomfort. “Alignment of the body is hugely affected by the position of the feet, and when alignment is compromised, pain and injuries can occur.” Since calibration is so important, the right design details to provide support while walking should be dissected.

Lilley’s number one problem-solver is good arch support to combat the discomfort. A gradual and gentle increase in arch support will help with flat feet,” she says. “Ideally, you need to retrain the arch and the muscles of the feet to return to a natural level of support.” Through adequate arch support, footwear can help realign the ankles and angles of the lower limbs. Lilley also recommends choosing a more supportive closed-toe shoe, rather than open-toed styles, to really experience the beneficial results.

Ready to get shopping? Below, find the 12 best walking shoes for flat feet to keep you sturdy and stable for miles and miles.

Best Lightweight

Hoka Arahi 6 Sneakers

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Best Lightweight

Hoka Arahi 6 Sneakers

Constructed with stability in mind, Hoka’s Arahi 6 sneakers are your everyday walking shoe with a little extra oomph. What’s remarkable about this sneaker is its extra-lightweight frame, despite having maximal cushioning. Recognized by the American Podiatric Medical Association, these shoes have the professional stamp of approval.

Sizes: 5–12

Colors: 13, including nimbus cloud/rose gold, black/black, and strawberry black

What customers are saying: “I normally never post reviews, but these shoes are so comfortable I have to!” one Zappos.com customer writes. “I walk a lot and will be walking a lot for my job this summer, which is why i got them, and they did not disappoint. If you are on the edge about it, get them! Feels like walking on clouds.”

Best Hiker

FitFlop Neo-D-Hyker Waterproof Leather/Suede Walking Sneakers

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Best Hiker

FitFlop Neo-D-Hyker Waterproof Leather/Suede Walking Sneakers

Whether you’re exploring the great outdoors or navigating the slick streets of a city in the cooler months, a functional hiker is your best bet. Built for trail and cross-country walking, this FitFlop shoe features unique technology that makes them ideal for flat footers, too.

“The neodynamic sneaker has a slightly higher arch, as it is engineered for higher-impact activities,” Lilley explains. Not only do you get the arch support you need, the shoes are also extremely stylish.

Sizes: 5–11

Colors: All black, perfect tan, black mix

What customers are saying: “I’m very pleased with the fit and quality of the shoe!” one Nordstrom.com customer says. “I’m a long time customer to Fitflop!! And always will be!”

Best Supportive

Keen WK400 Walking Shoes

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Best Supportive

Keen WK400 Walking Shoes

Keen’s walking sneaker was crafted with high-energy midsoles to enhance comfort and propel each step with forward momentum. This extra-high arch is great for those with flat feet who need more support in the midsole area than most.

Sizes: 5–12

Colors: Fawn/peach whip, triple black, Keen yellow/black, vapor/azure blue

What customers are saying: “I’ve been walking 3 miles a day for the last month in these shoes and they are extremely comfortable,” one KeenFootwear.com customer writes. “I feel like I am walking on a cushion. It’s definitely weird at first, but I’m glad I kept using them. The ‘cushion’ is in the center of the shoe so it makes you feel like you roll a little, but you get good momentum. I have super flat feet and these shoes are supportive and do not hurt my arch.”

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Best Arch Support

Vionic Walker Sneakers

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Best Arch Support

Vionic Walker Sneakers

A perennial customer favorite, the Walker sneaker was made for walking. Designed with a removable molded EVA midsole with a half inch of built-in elevation, this sneaker makes for a smooth transition in the heel-to-toe strike zone. Cushioning, arch support, stability, and flexibility will all keep flat feet happy and able to walk for miles a day. This shoe is also APMA-approved, so you can find comfort in knowing it’s been well tested and researched.

Sizes: 5–13

Colors: Black, mist suede, stone, taupe, white/blue, white/pink

What customers are saying: “So comfy!” one VionicShoes.com reviewer says. “I have flat flat flat feet and these walkers have perfect arch and metatarsal support for me!”

Best Size Range

Asics GT-2160 Sneakers

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Best Size Range

Asics GT-2160 Sneakers

A style that harks back to the 2010s, this sneaker has been in the Asics repertoire for awhile. The extremely comfortable gel inserts—a brand signature—work with flat feet and help combat overpronation. Not only are they a technically advanced shoe, they are also street-style friendly, and can be worn for both athletic activity and casual walks. For those with hard-to-find foot sizes, this unisex shoe has a full size range.

Sizes: 5–12 women’s, 4–14 men’s

Colors: Oyster gray/carbon

What customers are saying: “LOVE these shoes. Fit true to size and are super comfy and stylish. Couldn’t recommend more,” one FootLocker.com reviewer writes.

Best Cushion

Brooks Ariel GTS 23 Sneakers

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Best Cushion

Brooks Ariel GTS 23 Sneakers

Although Brooks is known for running shoes, customers enjoy the brand’s Ariels for walking as well. Signature cushioning adapts to the wearer’s individual stride and provides ample comfort and protection. The brand’s GuideRails technology allows hips, knees, and joints to find their natural stride, rather than trying to fix your footstep. Flat-foot customers particularly like the stability and cushioning this style provides.

Sizes: 6–13

Colors: Black/gray/white, gray/black/pink, Nile blue/blue/bittersweet

What customers are saying: “Love my new Ariels!” a BrooksRunning.com customer proclaims. “I have flat feet that overpronate and since discovering this shoe two years ago, I’ll never go back.”

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Best Budget

New Balance Fresh Foam Arishi v4 Running Shoes

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Best Budget

New Balance Fresh Foam Arishi v4 Running Shoes

A versatile style that was designed to go anywhere, New Balance’s Fresh Foam Arishi v4 features a foam cushioned midsole, a breathable mesh upper, and a durable rubber outsole, which all help with arch support and comfort for long days on your feet. Whether it is a walk around the block or a longer hike you have in mind, these will keep flat feet cushioned and protected. The under-$100 price point is just the cherry on top.

Sizes: 5–12

Colors: Gray/white, black/white, white/orange/ivory, aqua blue, red

What customers are saying: “I’m a Personal Trainer and on my feet all day. I’ve tried so may shoes but halfway through the day my feet are killing me!” one NewBalance.com customer writes. “With the 880’s arch support helps tremendously, extra cushion, helps the beating my feet take the total fit of the shoe kiss my foot so much comfort.”

Best Podiatrist-Approved

Orthofeet No-Tie Walking Shoes

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Best Podiatrist-Approved

Orthofeet No-Tie Walking Shoes

Orthofeet’s carefully constructed designs are made to alleviate pain caused by arthritis, overpronation, and flat feet. They also allow you to slip into an option that doesn’t require lacing but doesn’t sacrifice support. Premium orthotic insoles with anatomical arch support provide a sturdy base, reducing pressure at the heel and ball of foot. The ergonomic qualities set the brand apart from the rest.

Sizes: 5–12, in regular and wide

Colors: Blue, gray, rose, black, maroon

What customers are saying: “Light weight, looks good on my feet, comfortable. So much so I ordered another pair,” one satisfied Amazon.com customer says. “I have flat feet and planter fasciitis, these shoes don’t make my feet feel tired after wearing them all day.”

Best Width Range

Saucony Integrity Walker 3 Walking Shoes

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Best Width Range

Saucony Integrity Walker 3 Walking Shoes

Now 30% Off

Another sneaker designed specifically for walking, the Integrity Walker 3 has a sleek and sporty look with the added bonus of actually good foot support. APMA-approved, these walkers feel light and springy thanks to the signature durable outsole.

The rubber sole provides grip and traction too, for whatever your day has ahead. Premium full-grain leather makes this one resistant to the elements, as well. With four different widths to ensure your perfect fit, it’s a no-brainer practical purchase.

Sizes: 5–12, in narrow, regular, wide, and extra wide

Colors: White, gray, black

What customers are saying: “I’m on my third pair of Integrity Walker 3s, and I cannot rave enough about these shoes!” one ecstatic Saucony.com customer says. “I used to work at a clinic and was on my feet all day. My feet would be so sore at the end of each workday, until I found these shoes. They are super lightweight, supportive, and durable. They are also true to size. Would highly recommend these shoes to anyone!”

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Best City Chic

Frankie4 Riley Silver Sneakers

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Best City Chic

Frankie4 Riley Silver Sneakers

If athletic and sporty styles are not your cup of tea, look to Frankie4 for a little inspiration. Developed by an Australian podiatrist, the brand combines fashion-forward silhouettes with the power of comfort. Wear the Riley for long walks exploring a new city or a long day of running weekend errands.

Sizes: 6–13

Colors: Silver, white tumbled, black tumbled

What customers are saying: “The perfect sneaker with loads of support and exuding subtle elegance with an edge. Simply sumptuous!” one review reads.

Best Slip-On

Rykä Jumpstart Walking Shoes

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Best Slip-On

Rykä Jumpstart Walking Shoes

Rykä’s premium walking sneaker doesn’t have laces and is truly a style that will amp up your fitness routine. A stretchy-knit upper keeps this option extremely breathable, and an ACTIVfoam EVA midsole provides soft cushioning, built up specifically in the midfoot region, for plenty of arch and heel support and stability. The sleek, neutral color offerings will coordinate with everything from activewear sets to jeans and tees.

Sizes: 5–12, in medium and wide

Colors: Black, beige, pink

What customers are saying: “Yes!! Finally! A comfortable and good looking walking shoe,” one Nordstrom.com customer says. “I’ve spent a lot of money on Nike, Adidas, and New Balance walking shoes, and have been extremely disappointed with the results. Ryka has definitely met my expectations! The price is right, great fit and extremely comfortable!”

Best for Cold Weather

Allbirds Wool Runners

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Best for Cold Weather

Allbirds Wool Runners

When the cooler temperatures hits, a regular webbed sneaker is not going to keep toes warm enough. Cue the Allbirds Wool Runners. Made from warm and cozy ZQ Merino wool, this everyday shoe is one you can actually wear. A cushioned midsole gives wearers all-day support, and helps with arch support for those with flat feet. Bonus points: Like all of Allbirds’ shoes, these are sustainably made, using shoelaces made from recycled plastic bottles and a midsole made with sugarcane-based green EVA.

Sizes: 5–11

Colors: 10, including natural gray, dapple gray, natural white, and natural black

What customers are saying: “This was my first pair of wool runners and I couldn’t be more pleased,” one customer writes. “Wore them as my everyday walking shoe for a 3-week camping trip, and they were incredibly comfortable all day long.”

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