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How can I Choose the Best Sneakers for Flat Feet?
Most people who suffer from flat feet do not experience pain as a result of the condition, so no accommodations are necessary to treat the issue. Runners and people who suffer from pain due to flat feet, however, will need to consider sneakers for flat feet that will help correct the problem and properly support the foot. Good sneakers for flat feet will offer support through the midsole and will not curve too far inward throughout the course of the shoe. Since every foot is different, every person will react differently to a specific shoe, so you should ultimately choose a shoe that is comfortable for you while still correcting the issues causing pain.
Most sneakers for flat feet offer extra support in the insoles. Flat feet are the result of collapsed arches of the foot, which means all or almost all of your foot will press against the ground when walking. Pronation in runners often leads to such a condition, and the runner may want to consider doing a gait correction to help alleviate the pain due to flat feet. Purchasing sneakers for flat feet can also help in gait correction by putting the foot in the proper position for walking and running. While raised supports in the insoles can be helpful, they can also be painful for some people; if you have been flat footed for a long time, start with an insole that raises the arch only slightly, then work up to more supportive insoles from there.
Be sure to choose sneakers for flat feet that are well-constructed and breathable, just like other high quality sneakers. The soles of the shoe should have adequate cushioning without being too flimsy; the soles should allow the foot to move naturally but should prevent excess movement that will contribute to flat feet or pronation. Be sure the shoes are made from materials that will allow sweat and moisture to escape from the foot to help prevent hot spots and blisters.
Choose a simple shoe that does not feature excess padding. Running shoes often feature excess padding to absorb the impact of the running motion, but excess padding can make a flat foot flex more than it would otherwise, potentially causing discomfort or pain. Choose a shoe that is comfortable but not too squishy or flexible; excess padding can push upward on the collapsed arch, causing the muscles of the foot to tire quickly and tense up.
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![Shoe insoles can be beneficial for flat feet.]()
Shoe insoles can be beneficial for flat feet. -
![Choosing supportive sneakers is especially important for runners.]()
By: Picture-FactoryChoosing supportive sneakers is especially important for runners. -
![Some people with flat feet do not experience pain from the condition.]()
By: soupstockSome people with flat feet do not experience pain from the condition. -
![Be sure to choose sneakers for flat feet that are well-constructed and breathable, just like other high quality sneakers.]()
By: Nomad_SoulBe sure to choose sneakers for flat feet that are well-constructed and breathable, just like other high quality sneakers.
Discussion Comments
@ladyjane - There are a couple of tests you can do yourself at home to determine if you might be flat footed.
The first test requires a swimming pool or a bathtub will do. Examine your footprint after you get out. In a normal foot the front and back of the foot are joined with a narrow strip. If you are flat footed then there won't be a narrow strip but instead a stretched out appearance.
The second test is done by evaluating the shoes you wear most often. Put them on the table and look at them closely from behind at eye level. If the foot is flat it will have caused more wear on the inside of the shoe (the big toe side) and will be especially be noticeable around the heel.
For a more complete evaluation you should seek a trained orhopedic surgeon and have them advise the perfect flat feet treatment for you. It may be that all you'll need is an orthotics for your flat feet, but a trained professional will best know for sure. And maybe it's just the type of shoes you've been wearing.
How can you tell if you have flat feet or not? I used to be able to wear high heeled shoes all the time, but anymore when I put them on it nearly kills my feet from the pain. Sometimes the mid-sole of my feet hurt in tennis shoes or other flat shoes if the arch is too high.
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