The best shoes for flat feet for 2024, according to podiatrists

Cost: $75 Materials: Suede and mesh upper, durable rubber outsole and PU foam insert Sizes available: 5-12 (women, half sizes until 10.5), 6.5-18 (half sizes until 12.5) Widths: Standard, wide and narrow Colorways: Mulitiple colors available 

Many of the experts I consulted listed New Balance shoes as amongst their top choice for flat feet. Dr. Liza Egbogah, foot expert and orthopedic shoe designer at dr LIZA shoes, calls the New Balance classic trainer "a great overall walking and training shoe." She cites the shoe's stability and arch support as being a large part of why she ranks it so high. The shoes are also available in wide and narrow sizes and can accommodate a custom orthotic insole. Egbogah also praises the brand's "firm heel counters and stable midsoles." 

Dr. Bruce Pinker, a board certified podiatrist and foot surgeon, also includes New Balance shoes as the best overall for flat feet due to their "high quality." He says that "shoppers with flat feet should look for shoes with added medial support in the insoles, along with a cushioned, shock absorbing material." 

The 608v5 also has an ABZORB midsole that serves to absorb impact through cushioning and compression resistance. Hence why it is such an ideal fit for flat feet. Is it the most stylish sneaker? Perhaps not. But if you want a reliable go-to that can get you through a long day of holiday shopping this one is a solid choice. 

Cost: $40 Materials: Knit upper with flexible rubber sole Sizes available: 6-11.5 Widths: Standard and wide Colorways: Available in many different colors

When I first started researching the best shoes for flat feet, I assumed experts would guide me toward super-cushioned shoes with thicker soles. However, that was not always the case. 

Dr. Milica McDowell, a certified exercise physiologist who works for a foot healh and walking education company called Gait Happens, says those with flat feet will be most comfortable in shoes with low or moderate cushioning. McDowell warns that the problem with excess cushioning is that for "people with flatter arches, this creates difficulty with sensing and feeling the ground when walking." 

A lightweight shoe like this one from Whitin with its non-elevated zero-drop heel will also ensure those with flat feet maintain proper posture. This totally flat shoe is closer to the ground, helping you maintain balance and agility. The anti-slip rubber sole with its triangle-shaped lugs give you superior grip with each step. 

The extremely flexible sole and wide toe box also mean those with flatter feet can activate and engage their foot muscles more readily when walking. 

At under $40 for many Whitin, styles it's nice to know that taking care of your flat feet doesn't have to cost a fortune.   

Cost: $145 Materials: Engineered mesh upper with a two-piece Zipfoam formula midsole Sizes: 6-12 (half sizes up to 10.5) Widths: Standard only Colorways: Available in five different colors

When you have flat feet, going for a long run around the neighborhood in poorly made running shoes can quite literally be hazardous to your health. Instead, reach for a pair of Topo runners. With their multi-density midsoles, wider toe box, and Zipfoam sole, this sneaker is a top choice for runners with flatter feet. The American Podiatric Medical Association (AMPA) approved shoe also has a low heel to toe drop, so you move more naturally with each step. 

The secure mid-foot and heel construction ensures whether running outside or on the treadmill you are always supported. The 5MM heel-to-toe drop allows for more under-heel cushioning as you hit the road on your morning run. 

The Phantom 3 is definitely a more expensive sneaker, but when you think about how hard your feet hit the pavement while training for your next race and how that affects your body, the hefty price is more than worth it. Dr. Milica McDowell is such a huge proponent of the Topo brand she includes it as one of her top choices for runners with flat feet. 

Cost: $130 Materials: Leather upper with a slip resistant rubber sole Sizes Available: 5-12 (women, half sizes until 11.5) 7-15 (men, half sizes until 12.5) Widths: Narrow, medium, wide and extra-wide Colorways: Black, white

The reality is, most people walk in running or athletic shoes. But if you are someone like me whose feet are starting to flatten and like to walk at least five miles a day, it's a good idea to invest in a pair of dedicated walking shoes. Jerick Sobie, pedorthist and co-owner of Lucky Feet Shoes is a big fan of the "tried and true" Brooks line of shoes, calling out the Brooks Addiction Walker for its "superior stability and motion control." 

As we get to be over 50, it's natural to experience a decline in balance, and Sobie says that "the supportive features of this shoe help combat overpronation while offering extra cushioning." As the natural padding in our feet thins with age, a supportive shoe like this one can help combat any discomfort such inevitable thinning may cause. 

About to sign-up for a six hour walkathon? Sobie suggests picking up a pair of these as their "durable construction" is ideal for longer periods of walking or standing. 

Cost: $120 Materials: Breathable quick dry mesh upper, enhanced Wet Grip rubber bottom Sizes available: 7-16 (men, half sizes until 11.5) Widths: Standard Colorways: Available in six different colors

My dad has a very flat foot and the type of shoe he wishes he could wear is a lightweight boat shoe. The Nohea Moku shoe from the Hawaiian brand might just be the shoe fix he has been searching for. All about casual comfort, this handsome shoe (Nohea Moku means handsome in Hawaiian) boasts effortless style in a supportive design. 

Pedorthist and co-owner of Lucky Feet Shoes Jerick Sobie says these shoes offer a "breathable design without sacrificing essential arch support." Sobie says the slip on boat shoe with its no-tie laces is a great choice for older adults with flat feet "as it helps keep the foot properly aligned, reducing strain on the joints and preventing common pain points in the feet, knees, and back." 

With its quick-dry mesh upper, enhanced Wet Grip rubber bottom and stretch construction allowing for barefoot wear, these boat shoes are all about providing comfort all day long. 

Cost: $80 Materials: Canvas/leather upper, slip resistant rubber sole Sizes available: 5-11 (women's, no half sizes) Widths: Standard Colorways: Several different colors, designs and upper fabric choices offered

When i asked the people in my life with flat feet which sandal they prefer, each of them had the same reply: the FitFlop LULU. My sister has at least half a dozen different ones in her collection and says that no other sandal has ever supported her flat feet with the same level of comfort and style offered by her FitFlops. 

Since the company launched in 2007, FitFlop and their patented Microwobbleboard midsoles have been a spring and summer staple. The ergonomically designed soles diffuse pressure and reduce impact so even after a day of walking your feet won't feel a thing. 

The APMA approved shoe brand has expanded into many areas of footwear, but the bestselling LULU remains a fan favorite. 

When I asked Dr. Bruce Pinker, podiatrist and foot and ankle surgeon, for his recommendation for the best sandal for flat feet, one of his answers was FitFlops. Pinker says "FitFlops are good for flat feet because they have significant arch support and are well-constricted." My sister couldn't agree more! 

Cost: $152 Materials: Genuine suede upper and shearling lined interior Sizes available: 5-10 (runs big, no half sizes) Widths: Standard only Colorways: Available in seven different colors/patterns

For many women, it’s the casual comfort shoes they don around the house that get the most wear. I mean, how many times have I thrown on my comfy slippers to take the kids to school or pick up something at the grocery store? Since they are shoes our feet are in the most, finding ones that offer super support is a must. 

Our pick for this category is the Mave and Chez slippers. The Canadian company, which was founded by two former competitive dancers (along with the guidance of a podiatrist), created ergonomically designed slippers that, thanks to an anti-slip rubber sole, can be worn both indoors and outside.

But aren’t flatter shoes bad for flat feet? According to foot expert, Dr. Liza Egbogah, not necessarily. In fact, “some flats are well designed with arch support, cushioning and a roomy fit which can be beneficial for your feet,” she explains.   

Mave and Chez slippers are constructed with arch support and a deep heel cup which helps with flat feet and plantar fasciitis, encouraging alignment and improving stability. The genuine shearling lining provides temperature control while the spacious toe box allows for plenty of ventilation. The removable and washable insole also helps extend the life of your slippers. 

Dani Kagan, one of the company's founders, says that the unparalleled arch support of the slippers is so important for women during pregnancy, postpartum and menopause when “they are more susceptible to collapsing arches.” 

Kagan and her cofounder, Victoria Marshman are proud to have built a chic and supportive slipper that helps women with flat feet, lower back pain and other issues to “live more pain free.” Do keep in mind if you plan on ordering the website recommends sizing down as the slippers do tend to run big. 

Cost: $200 Materials: Insulated wool blend and an OOfoam MEGA midsole Sizes: 5-11 with half sizes up to 9.5 Widths: Standard only Colorways: Available in two colors

For those living in colder climates, it’s nice to have a cute bootie in your shoe collection. The APMA-approved recovery shoe brand OOFOS, recently launched the OOMEGA Londoner, a fun way to add an element of style to your supportive footwear. 

Podiatrist Timothy Karthas says that OOFOS are an ideal choice of shoe for any foot type, but for people over 50, they can be “particularly effective.” As we age, “ligaments and tendons that have been supporting us our entire lives become weaker and the foot becomes flatter and more pronated as a result.” OOFOS are crafted with an elevated arch which in turn prevents this excess pronation. The OOfoam the shoes are made with helps absorb impact and leads to less stress on the joints, critical as we become more prone to injury as we age. 

My 79-year-old mother swears by this brand especially since her feet have become flatter in recent years. She's in love with the Londoner boot which she says “makes my old feet feel young again.” The machine washable platform boot offers stability and support while its insulated wool blend material helps keep feet warm. I also own a pair and they have been a game changer for my aging feet. Since entering menopause I’ve noticed my ankles are weaker and a boot like this keeps this mama striding safely. I also really like the knit collar at the ankle which makes for a more secure fit. 

Cost: $360 Materials: Brazilian leather upper, 3.75 inch heel, royal blue rubber sole and a 0.75 inch shock absorbing EVA platform Sizes available: 5-12 (with half sizes up to 10.5), runs big so see size chart Widths: Standard only (see size chart to determine best fit) Colorways: Available in six different colors

There's no way that wearing high heels with flat feet - or rather any type of foot - is a good idea, right? Not true. Dr. Liza Egbogah, founder of dr. LIZA shoes, has designed a complete line of shoe-wear that “feels and functions like the most comfortable pair of sneakers.” 

As someone with flat feet, Egbogah knows how important a good pair of heels can be, designing her dr. LIZA pump to support and accommodate flat feet. They have an orthotic insole, metatarsal pad for relieving pressure points, wide toe box, deep heel cup and a shock absorbing EVA platform with ample cushioning, ensuring you aren’t compromising support for style. 

The rocker sole and shock absorbing platform also makes these a great option for anyone suffering from plantar fasciitis and achilles tendonitis. The best part? While they don't look like it, they are actually orthopedic shoes, “so you know you’re getting heels that will do your body good,” Egbogah says. 

You would never imagine a 3.75 inch high heel could be this comfortable! The dr. LIZA pump runs big so be sure to use the sizing guide to determine the best fit for your foot. If you have moderate to severe arthritis in your foot, Egbogah wouldn’t recommend this pump and would suggest sneaker pumps or booties instead. 

Cost: $80 Materials: Made in Brazil from sugarcane-based EVA foam Sizes available: 3-17 (men), 5-18 (women), no half sizes Widths: Standard only (size one size up for wider feet) Colorways: Available in 22 different colors/designs

After a long run or an intense workout, feet need a break, and that's where a supportive recovery shoe like this one from Kane Footwear can be essential. Dr. Geller, a foot and ankle surgeon and Chief Medical Officer of Kane Footwear, says that Kane Revive's "dual density construction allows for soft and firm cushioning," which is crucial for those with flat feet. He says the shoe's softness provides "superior foot capture" and its firm cushioning creates an ideal balance of stability and support. 

My sister and her flat feet have been living in these shoes as of late while she's been training for an upcoming physical performance test required for her role in the Army. "I'm approaching 50 and my feet aren't as strong as they used to be. After coming in from a run outside my feet and knees can't wait for me to get into these shoes!" she says. Slipping into these after coming home from work also helps limit any pain or discomfort a long day on her flat feet may cause. 

Geller says as we age our feet become weaker and more susceptible to injury; an orthopedically designed shoe like the Kane Revive "with its smooth heel to toe transition, prevents stress to the feet, ankles and lower extremity." 

The shoe's multiple recovery features work together to keep your feet operating at their best. My sister's favorite thing about the shoe? The raised footbed. "It's like getting a foot massage with every step! And my flat feet need that much more these days."