Podiatrists Say These Are the Most Supportive Shoes for Flat Feet (2024)

Podiatrists Say These Are the Most Supportive Shoes for Flat Feet (1)

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The best shoes for flat feet can be difficult to find, but the truth is that it’s really important to wear the right the right kind of footwear for your feet. Thankfully, there are some stellar options on the market—even ones that merge comfort and fashion, so you don’t have to sacrifice your style.

If you’re one of the 20–30% of Americans with flat feet, meaning that when you stand straight, your arches touch the floor, you might need some more thoughtfully designed shoes. For some people, flat feet are hereditary. Others develop flat feet as a result of pregnancy, aging, obesity, or a health condition such as rheumatoid arthritis or diabetes, according to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons.

Meet the experts: Edgard Nau, D.P.M., a podiatrist at Manhattan Home Podiatric in New York City; Bruce Pinker, D.P.M., a podiatrist and foot surgeon with Progressive Foot Care

Whether or not your flat feet cause you pain, we can all agree that wearing the right shoes is vital (some active folks might even need running shoes for flat feet, too!). Slipping your feet into the wrong pair can lead to ankle, knee, hip, back, shoulder, and even neck problems, says Edgard Nau, D.P.M., a podiatrist at Manhattan Home Podiatric in New York City.

So, it’s important to listen to your body and wear the right shoes to truly put your best foot forward. Below, you’ll find the best (and most fashionable) shoes for flat feet—from sandals to heels to booties. And slippers!

Our top picks

Pros
  • Podiatrists Say These Are the Most Supportive Shoes for Flat Feet (13)Multiple color options
  • Podiatrists Say These Are the Most Supportive Shoes for Flat Feet (14)Soft and supportive
  • Podiatrists Say These Are the Most Supportive Shoes for Flat Feet (15)Comfortable
Cons
  • Podiatrists Say These Are the Most Supportive Shoes for Flat Feet (16)Pricey for a slipper

Even when you’re lounging around the house, your footwear should support your feet. A podiatrist designed these crowd favorites—and we especially love that the footbed is covered with 100% polyester terrycloth and treated with anti-bacterial, odor-resistant finish.

Sizes5-12
Colors5
ClosureSlip on

2

Best Flip Flop for Flat Feet

FitFlop iQushion Flip Flop

Podiatrists Say These Are the Most Supportive Shoes for Flat Feet (17)

2

Best Flip Flop for Flat Feet

FitFlop iQushion Flip Flop

Pros
  • Podiatrists Say These Are the Most Supportive Shoes for Flat Feet (18)Podiatrist approved
  • Podiatrists Say These Are the Most Supportive Shoes for Flat Feet (19)Available in multiple colors
  • Podiatrists Say These Are the Most Supportive Shoes for Flat Feet (20)Cushioned footbed
Cons
  • Podiatrists Say These Are the Most Supportive Shoes for Flat Feet (21)No half sizes available

Bruce Pinker, D.P.M., a podiatrist and foot surgeon with Progressive Foot Care says flip flops should be avoided at all costs, since their support is often lackluster. However, FitFlop is definitely the exception. Approved by the American Podiatric Medical Association, these sandals have a foam cushioned footbed, a thick sole, and a deep heel cup. And they’re available in multiple colors, so you have a few cute options to choose from.

Sizes5-11
Colors11
ClosureSlip on

3

Best Sandal for Flat Feet

Birkenstock Arizona Soft Footbed Sandal

Podiatrists Say These Are the Most Supportive Shoes for Flat Feet (22)

3

Best Sandal for Flat Feet

Birkenstock Arizona Soft Footbed Sandal

Pros
  • Podiatrists Say These Are the Most Supportive Shoes for Flat Feet (23)Comfortable
  • Podiatrists Say These Are the Most Supportive Shoes for Flat Feet (24)Adjustable straps
  • Podiatrists Say These Are the Most Supportive Shoes for Flat Feet (25)Flexible
Cons
  • Podiatrists Say These Are the Most Supportive Shoes for Flat Feet (26)Pricey

Birkenstocks will never go out of style if we have a say! That’s because they’ve mastered the mix of proper arch support and shock absorption through a flexible EVA outsole. And it’s hard to beat the fact that they mold to your feet over time. These also have adjustable straps to easily accommodate wider feet.

Sizes4-4.5-12-12.5
Colors4
ClosureSlip on

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4

Best Flats for Flat Feet

Birdies The Starling

Podiatrists Say These Are the Most Supportive Shoes for Flat Feet (27)

4

Best Flats for Flat Feet

Birdies The Starling

Pros
  • Podiatrists Say These Are the Most Supportive Shoes for Flat Feet (28)Stylish
  • Podiatrists Say These Are the Most Supportive Shoes for Flat Feet (29)Multiple colors and patterns available
  • Podiatrists Say These Are the Most Supportive Shoes for Flat Feet (30)Memory foam cushioning
Cons
  • Podiatrists Say These Are the Most Supportive Shoes for Flat Feet (31)Pricey

While you won’t find ballet flats on this list, Birdies makes adorable flats that people love because of their dual-layer memory foam cushioning nestled inside soft, quilted satin. Nearly 3,000 reviewers have given them a perfect five star rating (and the cheetah faux fur is our favorite pattern).

Sizes5-12
Colors17
ClosureSlip on

5

Best Stylish Sneaker for Flat Feet

Vionic Simasa Sneaker

Podiatrists Say These Are the Most Supportive Shoes for Flat Feet (32)

Podiatrists Say These Are the Most Supportive Shoes for Flat Feet (33)

5

Best Stylish Sneaker for Flat Feet

Vionic Simasa Sneaker

Now 57% Off

Pros
  • Podiatrists Say These Are the Most Supportive Shoes for Flat Feet (34)Podiatrist-designed
  • Podiatrists Say These Are the Most Supportive Shoes for Flat Feet (35)Stylish
  • Podiatrists Say These Are the Most Supportive Shoes for Flat Feet (36)Supportive
Cons
  • Podiatrists Say These Are the Most Supportive Shoes for Flat Feet (37)Limited colors

Vionic’s history in shoe making began with a podiatrist and the end result is effortlessly stylish footwear with orthopedic perks. This lace-up sneaker provides podiatrist-designed orthotic support to bring natural alignment to your foot. This trendy white look can be dressed up or down, making it perfect for every cold-weather outfit.

Sizes5-10
Colors7
ClosureLace up

6

Best Loafer for Flat Feet

Naturalizer Adiline Loafer

Podiatrists Say These Are the Most Supportive Shoes for Flat Feet (38)

6

Best Loafer for Flat Feet

Naturalizer Adiline Loafer

Pros
  • Podiatrists Say These Are the Most Supportive Shoes for Flat Feet (39)Suitable for wide feet
  • Podiatrists Say These Are the Most Supportive Shoes for Flat Feet (40)Supportive and comfortable
  • Podiatrists Say These Are the Most Supportive Shoes for Flat Feet (41)Inclusive size range
Cons
  • Podiatrists Say These Are the Most Supportive Shoes for Flat Feet (42)Pricey

Flat feet also tend to be longer and wider, Dr. Nau says. This classy loafer has a round toe box to give you lots of room and comes in wide sizes. It has a super supportive base with extra cushioning, making it ideal for neighborhood walks. Plus, they’re stylish yet professional looking, so when it’s time to head into the office, you’ll be ready.

Sizes4-13
Colors5
ClosureSlip on

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7

Best Slip on Shoe for Flat Feet

Dr. Scholl’s No Chill Sneaker

Podiatrists Say These Are the Most Supportive Shoes for Flat Feet (43)

7

Best Slip on Shoe for Flat Feet

Dr. Scholl’s No Chill Sneaker

Pros
  • Podiatrists Say These Are the Most Supportive Shoes for Flat Feet (44)Stylish platform
  • Podiatrists Say These Are the Most Supportive Shoes for Flat Feet (45)Easy slip-on design
  • Podiatrists Say These Are the Most Supportive Shoes for Flat Feet (46)Removable insole
Cons
  • Podiatrists Say These Are the Most Supportive Shoes for Flat Feet (47)Only available in grey and black

Experiencing foot pain after walking for hours on end happens more often to people with flat arches, especially when there’s no padding to soften the impact. Cue these Dr. Scholl’s slip-on sneakers that have a removable cushioned insole and a leveled platform outsole that takes the pressure off the heel. It also has a cute zipper detailing and a perforated design on the upper that’s super stylish.

Sizes6-10
Colors2
ClosureSlip on

8

Best Running Shoe for Flat Feet

Brooks Ariel ’20 Sneakers

Podiatrists Say These Are the Most Supportive Shoes for Flat Feet (48)

Podiatrists Say These Are the Most Supportive Shoes for Flat Feet (49)

8

Best Running Shoe for Flat Feet

Brooks Ariel ’20 Sneakers

Now 22% Off

Pros
  • Podiatrists Say These Are the Most Supportive Shoes for Flat Feet (50)Great for running or walking
  • Podiatrists Say These Are the Most Supportive Shoes for Flat Feet (51)Absorbs impact
  • Podiatrists Say These Are the Most Supportive Shoes for Flat Feet (52)Solid arch support
Cons
  • Podiatrists Say These Are the Most Supportive Shoes for Flat Feet (53)Pricey

Dr. Nau says to look for a running sneaker with good medial arch support and insoles, like the Brooks Ariel ’20 for women. This pair features a cushioned, foam midsole that absorbs impact with each step and stabilizes the foot by keeping it aligned with your body for a natural stride. Plus, it has a large toe box and secure fit for hundreds of miles to come.

Sizes6-13
Colors4
ClosureLace up

9

Best Bootie for Flat Feet

Dr. Scholl's Amara Bootie

Podiatrists Say These Are the Most Supportive Shoes for Flat Feet (54)

9

Best Bootie for Flat Feet

Dr. Scholl's Amara Bootie

Now 50% Off

Pros
  • Podiatrists Say These Are the Most Supportive Shoes for Flat Feet (55)Stylish block heel
  • Podiatrists Say These Are the Most Supportive Shoes for Flat Feet (56)Cushioned footbed
  • Podiatrists Say These Are the Most Supportive Shoes for Flat Feet (57)Comfortable fit
Cons
  • Podiatrists Say These Are the Most Supportive Shoes for Flat Feet (58)Only available in black and nude

Podiatrists say you want a little elevation—but stick to styles that are 2 1/2 inches or lower. This chic winter bootie is right on target with a 2-inch block heel for proper weight distribution. It feels as good as it looks too, thanks to an extra cushioned footbed and a soft, flexible leather upper.

Sizes6-11
Colors1
ClosureSlip on

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10

Best Strappy Sandal for Flat Feet

Pikolinos Moraira Sandal

Podiatrists Say These Are the Most Supportive Shoes for Flat Feet (59)

10

Best Strappy Sandal for Flat Feet

Pikolinos Moraira Sandal

Pros
  • Podiatrists Say These Are the Most Supportive Shoes for Flat Feet (60)Multiple color options
  • Podiatrists Say These Are the Most Supportive Shoes for Flat Feet (61)Lightweight and supportive
  • Podiatrists Say These Are the Most Supportive Shoes for Flat Feet (62)Deep heel cup
Cons
  • Podiatrists Say These Are the Most Supportive Shoes for Flat Feet (63)Straps are not adjustable

These sandals are designed with a tiny bit of height to elevate truly any outfit while also being extra supportive at the same time. This pair from Pikolinos features a comfortable footbed, a deep heel cup, and ample arch support. With velcro straps in tow, this also accommodates larger feet. Bonus? It has a lightweight feel.

Sizes4-5-11
Colors3
ClosureStrap

11

Best Wedges for Flat Feet

Vionic Aileen

Podiatrists Say These Are the Most Supportive Shoes for Flat Feet (64)

Podiatrists Say These Are the Most Supportive Shoes for Flat Feet (65)

11

Best Wedges for Flat Feet

Vionic Aileen

Now 11% Off

Pros
  • Podiatrists Say These Are the Most Supportive Shoes for Flat Feet (66)Adds ample height
  • Podiatrists Say These Are the Most Supportive Shoes for Flat Feet (67)Comfortable and supportive
  • Podiatrists Say These Are the Most Supportive Shoes for Flat Feet (68)Stylish
Cons
  • Podiatrists Say These Are the Most Supportive Shoes for Flat Feet (69)Some users report the fit is too wide

Want to go even taller? These platform wedges are still extremely practical for flat feet. You’ve got three inches in the wedge, plus the same deep heel cup and extra contouring that you’d get with Vionic’s Paula block heel. So good!

Sizes5-11
Colors3
ClosureBuckle strap

12

Best Boots for Flat Feet

Timberland Stone Street 6-Inch Waterproof Platform Boot

Podiatrists Say These Are the Most Supportive Shoes for Flat Feet (70)

12

Best Boots for Flat Feet

Timberland Stone Street 6-Inch Waterproof Platform Boot

Now 38% Off

Pros
  • Podiatrists Say These Are the Most Supportive Shoes for Flat Feet (71)Great for cold weather
  • Podiatrists Say These Are the Most Supportive Shoes for Flat Feet (72)Comfortable and supportive
  • Podiatrists Say These Are the Most Supportive Shoes for Flat Feet (73)Classic style
Cons
  • Podiatrists Say These Are the Most Supportive Shoes for Flat Feet (74)May take time to break in

Timberland’s classic winter boot offers both insulation and support. It’s designed to provide long-term support with an Ortholite footbed, and the PrimaLoft insulation ensures your shoes stay warm and dry through the winter snow.

Sizes5-11
Colors2
ClosureLace up

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13

Best Mules for Flat Feet

Soludos Venetian Mule

Podiatrists Say These Are the Most Supportive Shoes for Flat Feet (75)

13

Best Mules for Flat Feet

Soludos Venetian Mule

Pros
  • Podiatrists Say These Are the Most Supportive Shoes for Flat Feet (76)Subtle, short heel
  • Podiatrists Say These Are the Most Supportive Shoes for Flat Feet (77)Stylish
  • Podiatrists Say These Are the Most Supportive Shoes for Flat Feet (78)Padded footbed
Cons
  • Podiatrists Say These Are the Most Supportive Shoes for Flat Feet (79)Pricey

Heels can be comfy, and these mules by Soludos are supportive, too. They have a 1-inch heel, which is comfortable to walk in, as well as a padded footbed for extra comfort. They come in a black or tan, which is perfect to pair with every work outfit.

Sizes5.5-10.5
Colors1
ClosureSlip on

14

best inserts for flat feet

Dropsky Arch Support Sleeves

Podiatrists Say These Are the Most Supportive Shoes for Flat Feet (80)

14

best inserts for flat feet

Dropsky Arch Support Sleeves

Pros
  • Podiatrists Say These Are the Most Supportive Shoes for Flat Feet (81)Transforms existing shoes
  • Podiatrists Say These Are the Most Supportive Shoes for Flat Feet (82)Offers ample support
  • Podiatrists Say These Are the Most Supportive Shoes for Flat Feet (83)Easy to put on
Cons
  • Podiatrists Say These Are the Most Supportive Shoes for Flat Feet (84)Cannot be worn with open-toed shoes

These supportive inserts are a great option for those with flat feet who want to continue to wear the shoes they already have. They come in a compression sleeve-like design with a gel pad for support and comfort. Plus, reviewers with flat feet have great things to say about the product. “I’m so happy with these! My feet are flat [and] the tops of my feet hurt, but not with these! I stand up straighter, my feet do not hurt.”

SizesOne size
Colors3
ClosureSlip on

How to choose the best shoes for flat feet

Podiatrists Say These Are the Most Supportive Shoes for Flat Feet (85)

Your ideal pair will firmly cup the heel and offer sturdy arch support, says Dr. Pinker. The toe box should provide ample room, and the shank, or middle part of the shoe, should be somewhat flexible—not too rigid, but not too flimsy.

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How we chose the best shoes for flat feet

Podiatrists Say These Are the Most Supportive Shoes for Flat Feet (86)

We consulted Edgard Nau, D.P.M., a podiatrist at Manhattan Home Podiatric in New York City and Bruce Pinker, D.P.M., a podiatrist and foot surgeon with Progressive Foot Care. We also sifted through countless of online reviews and performed our own testing to find the best shoes for flat feet.

Why trust us

Podiatrists Say These Are the Most Supportive Shoes for Flat Feet (87)

For more than 70 years, Prevention has been a leading provider of trustworthy health information, empowering readers with practical strategies to improve their physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Our editors interview medical experts to help guide our health-focused product selections. Additionally, Prevention also examines hundreds of reviews—and often conducts personal testing done by our staff—to help you make informed decisions.

Podiatrists Say These Are the Most Supportive Shoes for Flat Feet (88)

Sanah Faroke

Associate Editor

Sanah is the associate editor at Prevention.com focusing on all things commerce within the health and lifestyle space. She scours the internet for the best finds money can buy, and pretends to shop for herself in the process. This Boston University grad loves to sip coffee, read during her commute (without falling over), and binge Gilmore Girls reruns until she’s memorized every line. Follow her on social media as she tackles cooking in the kitchen and see what she’s currently obsessing over.

Podiatrists Say These Are the Most Supportive Shoes for Flat Feet (89)

Shannen Zitz

Assistant Editor

Shannen Zitz is an Assistant Editor at Prevention, where she covers all things lifestyle, wellness, beauty, and relationships. Previously the Editorial Assistant at Prevention, she graduated from the State University of New York at Cortland with a bachelor's degree in English. If she’s not reading or writing, you can probably find her frequenting the skincare and makeup forums on Reddit or hogging the squat rack at the gym.

Podiatrists Say These Are the Most Supportive Shoes for Flat Feet (2024)

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