Buyer's Guide | Fleet Feet
By Mandy Wahl, Tom Rivett, Evan Matsumoto Updated on
Shop All Running Shoes
Runners with flat feet might have a difficult time finding comfortable running shoes.
If you have flat feet, you’re not alone: 27 percent of people scanned during the Fleet Feet fit id® outfitting process have flat feet. So there are plenty of other runners in the same situation.
Some runners with flat feet might benefit from a shoe with good arch support or a custom orthotic, like Superfeet, while others might like more cushioning. All of the shoes on this page are well suited to flat feet, are accommodating for a custom orthotic and provide soft cushioning.
But whatever pair you choose, the No. 1 rule of running shoes applies to the best shoes for flat feet: Your shoes should be immediately comfortable. If they’re not comfy when you first put them on and walk around, they likely only be less comfortable when you start running. So, look first for comfort.
There’s no replacement for trying on a pair of shoes for yourself, but here are the best running shoes for flat feet to get you started:
- Brooks Glycerin GTS 21
- Saucony Triumph 21
- New Balance Fresh Foam 1080 v13
- Mizuno Wave Inspire 20
- ASICS GT-2000 v12
- On Cloudflyer 4
[This article is part of the Fleet Feet Buyer's Guide for The Best Running Shoes 2024. Find all the best running shoes from the top brands for all situations.]
Brooks Glycerin GTS 21
Shop Now
Not only is the Brooks Glycerin GTS 21 one of the best cushioned running shoes on the market, but the luxurious cushioning also earns it a spot on the list of the best running shoes for flat feet, too.
The Brooks Glycerin GTS 21 employs Brooks’ softest foam—DNA Loft v3—to cushion your every step. A light, breathable mesh upper delivers a comfortable and breathable fit and feel to continue that plush feeling.
The Brooks Glycerin GTS 21 has the width and volume to accommodate a variety of foot shapes, which is perfect for putting an insert into the shoe. It also has Brooks’ GuideRail technology that gives you a stable feel. The GuideRails work with your body’s natural motion path and reduce excess movement to keep you running smoothly, which can help if you have flat feet.
Saucony Triumph 21
Shop Now
If you have a flat foot or lower arch, the Saucony Triumph 21 will work well as your daily trainer or long-run shoe if you’re looking for some extra protection underfoot.
As one of the best-cushioned shoes on the market, the Triumph is a favorite for those who run a lot of miles or spend long hours on their feet.
Saucony’s plush PWRRUN+ midsole foam is soft enough to comfort achy feet but firm enough to give your foot stability inside the shoe. A secure fit keeps you locked in, while plenty of room in the forefoot makes the Triumph a great option for those with wider feet as well, something our runners loved in the Saucony Triumph 21 review.
The upper mesh and laces feel plush and premium when you slip it on, and Saucony revamped the upper, so the fit is even more dialed in and feels amazing on your feet.
New Balance Fresh Foam 1080 v13
Shop Now
Some runners with flat feet can benefit from the increased comfort that comes with extra cushioning, and the New Balance Fresh Foam 1080 v13 has plenty of foam to go around.
With an updated Fresh Foam X midsole, the 1080 v13 is one of the best cushioned running shoes on the market today. Fresh Foam X runs the full length of the shoe, so it gives you a smooth transition from heel to toe.
The dynamic knit upper is lightweight and stretchy, for an accommodating fit that feels like wearing a sock. The strategic areas of stretch and support with a wide toe box make it adaptable to many foot shapes, which we found out in our New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080 v13 review.
Mizuno Wave Inspire 20
Shop Now
Flat-footed runners who crave support can find it in the Mizuno Wave Inspire 20.
The Wave Inspire’s design includes Mizuno’s signature Wave Plate tuned specifically for stability that gives you a smooth and natural ride—great for those with flat feet.
With more of Mizuno’s Enerzy foam underfoot, you now get a more cushioned and bouncy experience to help you rack up the miles. More of your arch touches the cushioning in this shoe leading to a better experience as you run or walk. Plus, there are two different versions, a regular engineered mesh or a smooth stretch-woven upper, so you can pick the style that suits your needs.
ASICS GT-2000 v12
Shop Now
For those flat-footed folks looking for a lightweight and bouncy shoe with some additional support, the ASICS GT-2000 v12 is a great option.
ASICS created extra support for those with flexible arches by adding their 3D Guidance System™ which prevents excess overpronation without overcorrecting it.
ASICS packed the v12 with FF Blast Plus™ cushioning in the forefoot to make it more comfortable and energetic for miles on unforgiving pavement, while the stylish and supportive upper wraps around your foot like a second skin. This is a great stability shoe for people with flat feet who want a cushioned shoe without the weight.
On Cloudflyer 4
Shop Now
The On Cloudflyer 4 gives you support and cushion in a stylish package.
On’s signature CloudTec outsole uses individual pods called Clouds that collapse when you land to give you cushion and spring right back into place for take-off. The Cloudflyer 4 has larger, dual-density Clouds to provide more support and stability as you run which is ideal for people with flatter feet. Designers combined the Clouds with a molded footbed, external heel counter and star-lacing pattern to give you plenty of structure and support.
Cushioned and comfortable, On uses its lightweight Helion foam, which is soft when you land but gives you an energetic toe-off. These shoes also feature a Speedboard that is designed to support the natural rolling motion of your foot by loading with energy when you land and releasing it when you take off.
The On Cloudflyer 4 is flexible thanks to the zonal mesh upper and star lacing pattern. The wider base and external heel cup work well for runners with flat feet.
Read more in our On Cloudflyer 4 review.
How We Chose the Best Running Shoes For Flat Feet
We used data from our fit id® outfitting process, interviews with designers and real-life wear testing to determine the best running shoes for flat feet.
You can shop with confidence at Fleet Feet: We offer free shipping on all orders over $99, and you have 60 days to return any gear if you don’t like the way it looks, fits or feels. Plus, with our price-match guarantee, you can make sure you never pay too much for a new pair of running shoes.
