Best Walking Shoes for Flat Feet and Overpronation
- By Tim Ashdown
After testing 27 pairs of walking shoes, we feel the Propét Stability Walkers are the best walking shoes for flat feet and overpronation.
We wrote this article together with Dr. Katherine Enes: our team osteopath and physical therapist. She told us that shoes with arch support, a wide heel section and a roomy toe box can help with flat feet and overpronation. To see more of what she had to say, check our Buyer’s Guide section – which she wrote.
After speaking to Dr. Enes, we used social media to hear from over 40 people with flat feet that roll inward. We shortlisted the models that came up most often, then tested them in-store. We then detailed what we found in this article.
Our top pick for men and women is the Propét Stability Walker. This orthotic shoe excels at raising flat arches and correcting foot placement. It keeps the arch in a healthy, natural position. It also stabilizes the foot and ankle with a wide base, high eyelets and a heel counter.
The Propét walker’s insole is orthotic. It’s also removable. The midsole has a rocker shape, letting the foot roll through easily when you walk.
Of course, the Stability Walkers aren’t right for everyone. If you want an athletic shoe that’s good for walking, get the Ryka Devotion Plus 3 (women) or New Balance Ralaxa V1 (men). If you want a hiking shoe, get the KEEN Targhee 2 (women) or Merrell MOAB 2 (men).
Keep reading to learn more about our top picks (and read Dr. Enes’ insights)!
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Table of Contents
Best Walking Shoes for Flat Feet and Overpronation (Unisex)
99/100
Our Score
Propét Stability Walker
99/100
Our Score
The best walking shoes for flat feet and overpronation are the Propét Stability Walkers. They’re available in both male and female models. These look similar but have a slightly different base and fit. The men’s shoe is wider around the middle; the female has a slightly different toe box. This is important; a unisex shoe would have a hard time giving you the support and cushioning you need for relief.
Inside the shoes is a soft orthotic footbed. It has a gel heel pad for comfort and shock absorption. It also features cushioned ridges that cradle your feet for maximum support. This helps prevent overpronation and protects you from further injury. Unlike many other footbeds, this one isn’t too hard. This makes it a good choice for inflammations like plantar fasciitis, morton’s neuroma, etc.
At the same time, the footbed has strong orthotic support. It’s fully removable if you want to add your own custom orthotic. Further support comes from the tall heel section and eyelets. It wraps around your heel, reducing the level of pronation while simultaneously supporting your arches.
With a full leather upper, this stability shoe is durable. It features thick overlays, held in place by high-quality stitching. They reinforce the sides, toe and heel, preventing them from getting damaged as you walk. There are also perforations across the top of the upper allow your feet to breathe and prevent moisture build-up. The padded lining is super soft. It reduces rubbing and improves comfort.
The D-Ring lacing system speeds up tying your laces because they glide through the rings easily. Once done up, the laces tighten the upper, collar and tongue around your foot to create the most stable shoe we tested.
These walking shoes for flat feet are available in a range of widths from narrow to 3X Wide.
Cons
These shoes run a little small in both the male and female models. We advise ordering half a size up to be safe. If possible, try the shoes in store or via Prime Wardrobe. You may need to go for a wide version or a half-size up.
We also noticed that the D-rings in the lacing system sometimes come with sharp edges. This can result in your laces breaking. The two options we found to fix this issue was to replace the standard laces with extra tough versions. Or, to file down any sharp edges.
Pros
- Separately designed for men and women
- Strong orthotic support
- Padded lining reduces rubbing
Cons
- Laces can break
Best Walking Shoes for Flat Feet (Unisex)
98/100
Our Score
Vionic Men's Walker
98/100
Our Score
The best walking shoe for flat feet is the Vionic Walker. It’s available in both male and female models. Both are designed by podiatrists to prevent plantar fascia injury.
They’ve been awarded the American Podiatric Medical Association Seal of Approval. Our testers confirm that they are excellent for overpronation and flat feet, with a focus on the latter. The Active Motion System combines the supportive podiatrist orthotic with a flexible rubber sole and rugged.
It extends into the breathable upper. It supports the foot arch and foot placement as you walk. Together with the gentle heel drop, it encourages a efficient, natural gait. This maximizes your foot’s natural cushioning ability, protecting you from injuries like plantar fasciitis
Available in both leather and suede versions, the upper is durable. It features reinforcing overlays across all areas of high wear. Around the back, supportive overlays pull your heel into the heel cup. This improves fit and stability.
There are also mesh panels near the top of the upper to help breathability. The tongue and collar are well padded. High-level lace eyes mean that, when tied, the tongue and collar provide a ton of ankle support. The EVA footbed matches the natural contours of your feet. It keeps your foot securely locked in place and also contributes to arch support.
The shoes have a wide toe box. This gives your toes room to flex, reducing load on the arches. The shoes are available in wide sizes if you have wide feet or a high-volume insert you want to use. If you need flat foot correction with a little overpronation support, this is the go-to walking sneaker.
Cons
The rubber outsole on these shoes is not the most durable we’ve come across. It provides excellent grip but wears down after less than a year if used on abrasive surfaces like concrete or tarmac.
Pros
- Prevents plantar fascia injury
- Improves stability and fit
- Suitable for people with wide feet
Cons
- Rubber outsole could be more durable
Best Walking Shoe for Heel Pain, Flat Feet and Overpronation
96/100
Our Score
Gravity Defyer
Gravity Defyer
Why this product?
Available for men and women with heel pain. Supportive and comfortable with VersoShock Technology for overpronation. Reduces the impact of footfalls and protects from injury. Free set of orthotic insoles worth $50 separately included. Available up to Extra Wide.
96/100
Our Score
If heel pain accompanies flat feet and overpronation, your best option is the G-Defy Mighty Walk. This shoe is available for both men and women. It features advanced technology to create one of the most supportive and comfortable shoes we’ve ever tested.
In the heel is G-Defy’s proprietary VersoShock Technology. This patented suspension system has excellent shock absorption. It reduces the impact of your footfalls, protecting you from pain and injury. Clinical studies conducted in 2017 showed that foot, ankle, knee and back pain was reduced by up to 92% when patients wore VersoShock shoes.
From our testers’ notes, the heel area is particularly well-cushioned. It’s extra wide, with an extra layer of cushioning. It’s incredibly stable, which helps prevent your feet from rolling in. The front of the sole has a rocker element, making the heel-to-toe transition smooth and effortless.
These shoes come with a free set of orthotic insoles, worth $50 seperately. These lightweight, perforated orthotics are treated with an antimicrobial layer to prevent bacteria build-up. They’re flexible, featuring a foam heel pad for support and energy return. They provide good arch support but are fully removable should you need to use your own. The shoe is available in wide and extra-wide sizes; handy if you need to use a high-volume orthotic.
The mesh upper is flexible and allows air to flow around your feet. It’s reinforced around the toes, heel, sides and laces. There’s an extra supportive overlay around the heel. This holds your heel securely in place. The high eyelets, as well as cushioned tongue and collar, help lock your foot into the shoes. The interior is completely seamless and well padded. This ensures there are no obvious pressure points that can cause rubbing and blisters. Walking Shoes
The shoes are available in a range of widths, up to Extra Wide. They all have wide, deep toe box, allowing your toes to splay as you walk.
Cons
Some of our testers found these shoes to be quite heavy compared to the competition. They’re also more expensive than most. If you’re on a strict budget, check out the best budget options further down this guide.
Pros
- Proprietary VersoShock Technology provides shock absorption
- Free set of orthotic insoles included
- Breathable and flexible mesh
Cons
- Heavier than competitors
Best Athletic Shoe for Walking with Flat Feet and Overpronation (Women)
97/100
Our Score
Ryka Women's Devotion Plus 3
Ryka Women's Devotion Plus 3
Why this product?
Exclusively designed for female runners. Keeps feet pain-free and aligned during intense exercise. Arch and heel support for the whole day. Flexible, lightweight outsole with 8-piece skeletal rubber construction is grippy. Breathable light mesh.
97/100
Our Score
Need a shoe that’s good for sports and walking with flat feet and overpronation? Check out the Ryka Devotion Plus 3. This running shoe is specifically engineered for women’s feet. Its features keep your feet aligned and pain free when walking, lifting, cross training and even running.
Inside the shoe is an Anatomical Precise Return footbed. This offers heel and arch support, as well as cushioning and a good level of energy return from each step. More arch support is built into the midsole, which is slightly elevated in the middle. The extra wide base, padded ankle collar and padded tongue provide reduce pronation. The high heel area acts like a heel counter, keeping your feet and ankles secure in the shoe. All these features improve arch posture and foot placement.
The outsole features an 8-piece skeletal rubber construction. This creates a sole that’s lightweight and flexible but grippy. The base is extra wide at the bottom for increased stability. The midsole uses EVA foam as well as Ryka’s RE-ZORB foam. The EVA section is lightweight and supportive, cradling your feet as you walk. The RE-ZORB areas offer excellent shock absorption. Perfect for running and lateral movement.
The lightweight mesh upper is breathable. Its perforations make it even more breathable and stretchy. It’s reinforced around the toe and heel for extra stability and durability. There are welded overlays on the sidewalls. They ensure the shoe holds its shape and prevent the mesh from tearing. In front, the wide toe box offers plenty of wiggle room. This lets the feet move naturally and freely. The shoes are available in regular as well as wide.
Cons
Some of us found the lace loops to be quite fiddly with these shoes. They’re slits rather than regular eyelets. One tester managed to damage one of the loops while trying to lace the shoes. That was probably us being careless, but still – be careful.
Pros
- Suitable for walking and intense exercise
- Extra wide base at bottom for stability
- Excellent shock absorption
Cons
- Lace loops can be fiddly
Best Athletic Shoe for Walking with Flat Feet and Overpronation (Men)
97/100
Our Score
New Balance Men's Ralaxa V1
New Balance Men's Ralaxa V1
Why this product?
Includes removable insoles and EVA midsole for arch support, comfort, and foot stability. Soft and light Cush+foam midsole. Great choice for recovering from injuries like shin splints. Flexible and durable mesh upper with ankle support. Incredibly stylish.
97/100
Our Score
The best men’s athletic shoe for walking flat feet and overpronation is the New Balance Ralaxa V1. These shoes include a New Balance Soft+Supportive removable insole. This PU footbed works with the EVA midsole to provide arch support, foot stability and high-level comfort. It’s easy to remove if you need your own custom orthotics. It has good arch support, whether you have a low arch or a high arch.
The midsole utilises Cush+ foam. It’s softer and lighter than traditional EVA foam. It’s also more responsive and just as effective at absorbing impact. This makes this a good shoe for recovering from shin splints, plantar fasciitis and other overuse injuries. It’s moulded to offer maximum comfort and is extra wide around the heel for stability. Flat footed runners and walkers recommend it for foot pain reduction.
The mesh upper is flexible and durable. It features no-sew overlays on the toes and a rigid external heel panel. This delivers excellent stability and ankle support. It prevents your feet from rolling in or sliding around inside the shoes. The internal lining is soft and kind to your feet. It’s well-cushioned to keep you secure and to reduce rubbing or chafing. The padded tongue and ankle collar also grip your feet. Especially when your laces are tied to the top.
The ground contact EVA outsole is reinforced with rubber at the toe and heels to protect these high wear areas. It features flex grooves that encourage your foot to work through its natural range of motion as you walk. This can restore your natural arch height as the foot builds strength.
Testers say this is the most stylish shoe on the list. If you want a model that looks more like a fashion sneaker, get the Ralaxa V1.
Cons
The overlays around the lace eyes could do with some more reinforcement. We found that if we tied the laces too tight, the eyelets would start to tear. The only way to solve this issue is to be gentle when doing up your shoes.
Pros
- EVA midsole provides foot stability
- Good for injury recovery
- Stylish design
Cons
- Overlays around lace need reinforcement
Best Budget Walking Shoe for Flat Feet and Overpronation (Women)
95/100
Our Score
New Balance Women's 608 V5
New Balance Women's 608 V5
Why this product?
Affordable and comfy shoe specifically designed for women on the go. Dual-density ankle collar helps grip the feet and keeping them in place. Suitable for women with a moderately low arch looking to build foot strength. Breathable.
95/100
Our Score
The most budget-friendly, comfortable shoe for women with flat feet and overpronation is the New Balance 608 V5. This shoe looks and performs very similarly to our favourite overall pick, the Propét Stability Walker. The difference is that it’s more casual shoe than stability shoe… And available at close to half the price.
The 608 V5 features a tall heel section and dual-density ankle collar. These grip your feet, securing them in place and preventing you from pronating as you walk. You’ll also notice that when your feet are inside the shoes, they’re cushioned from every angle. The padded tongue, internal lining and footbed cradle your foot to create a comfortable, stable base.
The footbed itself is a New Balance Soft+Supportive insert. It offers a decent level of support. As far as flat feet women’s shoes go, we’ve seen better. But if you have a moderately low arch or want to build foot strength, it works. It can be removed and replaced easily if you want a better orthotic.
Below the footbed, the midsole is firm but flexible EVA foam. It rises around your heel and the sides of your foot, cradling it for maximum support. There’s also a stability shank which helps with pronation when you walk or stand. The rubber outsole features ABZORB technology in the heel. Using a combination of cushioning and compression, this absorbs impacts. Especially useful if you have very flat feet. The outsole is much wider than the rest of the shoe, especially around the heel. It ensures a secure, stable base for your feet.
The durable faux leather upper has reinforced overlays to extend the life of the shoes. It features perforations for breathability as well as extra support around the heel for increased stability. Flex grooves allow the shoes to expand and your feet to bend freely. These shoes are available in narrow, regular and wide.
Cons
We found the sizing on these shoes can be quite inconsistent. Some of us needed to size down, others needed to size up. We advise trying them on in store or via Prime Wardrobe to ensure the best fit.
Pros
- Best budget-friendly option
- EVA foam offers maximum support
- Faux leather upper with reinforced overlays for durability
Cons
- Inconsistent shoe sizing
Best Budget Walking Shoe for Flat Feet and Overpronation (Men)
95/100
Our Score
Skechers Men's Go Walk Max
Skechers Men's Go Walk Max
Why this product?
Most affordable option for active men. Lightweight and stable with excellent arch support. Goga Max technology with ‘SQUISH’ component creates supportive base. Proprietary 5 Gen foam offers memory retention and absorbs impact. Flexible and breathable mesh knit upper.
95/100
Our Score
The best budget shoe for men with flat feet and overpronation is the Skechers Go Walk Max. This comfortable shoe is stable, lightweight and has excellent arch support. The insole is made using Skechers’ Goga Max technology and features a ‘SQUISH’ component. This means your feet sink into the footbed, creating a secure, supportive and stable foundation. The footbed molds to your foot, providing more arch support and cushioning after a few weeks of wear.
The GoWalk Max midsole delivers reliable comfort and support. It works in conjunction with the insole to ensure maximum stability. It has an extra-wide base and extra cushioning under the heel; perfect for walking. The proprietary 5 Gen foam offers excellent memory retention. It absorbs impacts and protects your feet as you walk. The heel is extra wide which prevents your feet from rolling in and increases stability.
The mesh knit upper is lightweight and flexible. It allows your feet to breathe, preventing a build of sweat that can cause your feet to slide around inside the shoes and reduce stability. It also features solid weave heel and toe panels for increased stability. Inside, the lining is soft and moisture-wicking. It works with the upper to remove moisture from your feet. As for the outsole,
Cons
These shoes don’t have any overlays on the upper to increase durability. This means if you overpronate a lot, the mesh upper may end up getting stretched or torn.
There’s also less ankle support than we ideally like to see in shoes for overpronation. The low cut design means you need to be confident with your ankle strength if you plan on wearing these for extended periods.
Pros
- Lightweight and stable with arch support
- Extra wide heel increases stability
- Moisture-wicking lining
Cons
- Lack of ankle support
Best Work Shoe Flat Feet and Overpronation (Women)
97/100
Our Score
Dr Scholls Kimberly
Dr Scholls Kimberly
Why this product?
Best shoe for working women with flat feet. Insole with Cool Fit Memory Foam provides heel and arch support. Gel pad absorbs impact and reduces foot fatigue. Feet can bend and flex naturally. Outsole is oil and slip-proof. Anti-odour technology.
97/100
Our Score
The best work shoe for women suffering from flat feet and overpronation is the Dr Scholls Kimberly. A Cool Fit Memory Foam insole cradles the natural contours of your foot, providing excellent arch and heel support. It features a gel pad that absorbs impact, reducing foot fatigue and preventing a low arch. The insole is anti-compression too. It maintains its shape through hundreds of miles of walking, continuing to support your foot and arch.
The midsole absorbs shocks without being constricting. It allows your foot to bend and flex naturally, protecting you from injury and allowing you to build up strength in your feet. The outsole is non-slip and oil-resistant – a requirement for many workplaces. The padded tongue and collar grip your ankle. They deliver good ankle support and stability. There’s a lace eye at the very top of the shoe. It allows you to tighten the collar as much, or as little as you need for maximum comfort.
The strong leather upper has reinforced overlays along the sides and around your heel. There’s extra stitching to ensure they remain in place, even if your feet roll in a lot. However, the tight heel cup and chunky rubber outsole keep your feet planted, reducing the risk of your feet rolling in at all.
With non-slip soles, anti-odour technology and incredible arch support, these walking sneakers are ideal for keeping you comfortable and safe at work.
Cons
As far as supportive shoes go, these are quite narrow. Even the wide models were tighter on our feet than many of the shoes we tested. If you have a very wide foot shape, we suggest sizing up by around half a size. Try them in store or via Prime Wardrobe wherever possible.
Pros
- Cool Fit Memory Foam insole is anti-compression
- Excellent stability and ankle support
- Slip-resistant soles with anti-odour technology
Cons
- Narrow shoes
Best Work Shoe for Flat Feet & Overpronation (Men)
96/100
Our Score
Dr Scholls Omega Sneaker
Dr Scholls Omega Sneaker
Why this product?
Best shoe for working men with flat feet. Supportive sneaker with slip-resistant rubber outsole. Keeps feet cool and dry. Arch support and comfort. Air pillow gel insoles for impact absorption and support cushioning. Hook and loop closure system for easy customizability.
96/100
Our Score
The best work shoe for men with flat feet and overpronation is the Dr Scholls Omega. This sneaker is rugged and supportive. It has a non-slip rubber outsole and perforations in the upper which keep your feet cool – exactly what you need if you’re on your feet at work all day.
All three parts of the sole work together to deliver arch support. It starts at the outsole where flex grooves allow your foot to work through its natural range of motion. Arch support also begins at the outsole and is visible from the bottom of the shoe. The midsole creates a lightweight, cushioned layer. It cradles your feet as they sink gently into it, creating an incredibly stable platform. The insole features air pillow gel insoles. These absorb impacts and cushion your feet for all-day comfort and support.
The padded ankle collar and tongue offer a good level of comfort and support. They prevent your feet from sliding about inside the shoes, reducing your risk of injury. The liner is also well cushioned to reduce chaffing and abrasion. Rather than relying on laces, these shoes use a hook and loop closure system. This velcro like design is easy to adjust, tighten and release. It also offers a good level of support, while still allowing your feet to bend and flex naturally.
The leather upper features overlays around the toes, heel and where the closure straps grip the shoes. These are double stitched with extra stitching around the side of the shoes to reduce wear and tear. The shoes are available in wide sizes, accommodating for people with flat feet or other problems.
Cons
Due to the hook and loop closure system, these shoes do not have the same level of ankle support as others we tested. It’s still better than “normal” shoes but if your overpronation is severe, you’ll want more ankle support.
They also fit quite large. We advise buying half a size down to get the best fit. If possible, try them on in store or via Prime Wardrobe.
Pros
- Keeps feet cool
- Stable platform with cushioned and lightweight midsole
- Padded ankle collar and tongue keep feet in place
Cons
- Quite large
Best Walking Boot for Flat Feet & Overpronation (Unisex)
97/100
Our Score
Dr. Martens 1460
Dr. Martens 1460
Why this product?
Iconic durable shoe for support and comfort. Anti-fatigue design is lighter and more flexible than original version. Offers great support while allowing feet to flex and bend. Air pockets in AirWair sole cradle the feet and protect from impact. Slightly raised wide heel reduces ankle rolling.
97/100
Our Score
The best walking boot for flat feet and overpronation is the classic Dr. Martens 1460. Originally made to help the creator heal from a foot injury, Dr. Martens are supportive, comfortable and durable. Plus, they look great and last for ages.
This modern version is built with an anti-fatigue design. It’s flexible, lighter and more cushioned than the original version. These boots allow your feet to bend and flex naturally while still offering incredible support. If you tie the laces through all eight eyes, the boots grip your ankles, keeping them protected and preventing them from rolling in.
The AirWair sole features small air pockets that cradle your feet. It protects them from impact and provides a comfortable, supportive base. The wide heel is slightly raised. It creates a stable platform, which reduces the chances of you rolling your ankle. The heel cup is tight, offering even more support.
The industrial leather upper is strong and hard wearing. There’s triple stitching around the sidewall and reinforced stitches around the heel. Even if you suffer with a lot of ankle pronation, the upper will stand the test of time. Inside, the padded lining protects your feet from rubbing and chaffing. The wide toe box also reduces rubbing by giving your toes plenty of room to work through their natural range of motion.
Dr. Martens include their standard insoles in the 1460 boots. These offer a moderate level of arch support but can be easily swapped if you need more customised orthotics.
Cons
As with all Dr. Martens boots, the break-in process is long. We recommend not wearing them for more than an hour or two at a time for the first few weeks. It’s also best to wear thick socks.
Pros
- Durable and supportive, iconic shoe
- Built with anti-fatigue design
- Wide toe box reduces rubbing
Cons
- Takes time to break in
Best Hiking Boot for Flat Feet & Overpronation (Women)
99/100
Our Score
KEEN Targhee Mid Hiking Boot
KEEN Targhee Mid Hiking Boot
Why this product?
Best hiking shoe for women with flat feet. Available in waterproof and breathable versions for support and durability. Dual-density EVA midsole offers cushioning and arch support. Supportive rubber outsole absorbs impact and stops arch fatigue. Wide toe box for ultimate comfort.
99/100
Our Score
The best women’s hiking boot flat feet and overpronation is the KEEN Targhee Mid Boot. Available in both waterproof and breathable versions, this hiking shoe combines rugged durability with high-end support. Perfect for getting back to the trail.
The dual-density EVA midsole offers excellent cushioning around the wide heel. It also delivers fantastic arch support. You can literally see it when you look at the shoe. There’s an arch frame in the lower section of the midsole, and elevation in the upper layer. Testers report the midsole combines different density layers to support the arch while cushioning the heel and forefoot. The rubber outsole is rugged and supportive. It effectively absorbs impacts, stopping arch fatigue and collapse.
Around the back of the shoe is KEEN’s ingenious Contoured Heel Lock System. This grips your heel to keep your feet secure and stable. It tightens as you do up your laces. It works in conjunction with the mid-cut ankle collar and padded tongue to cradle your feet in the shoes. This provides arch support by preventing heel slippage. It also improves stability. Also helping to create a comfortable, stable base is the external stability shank. This prevents your feet from rolling, protecting you from injury.
Both versions of the boot feature a tough leather upper. They also have mesh panels for breathability. In the waterproof boots, these panels are hydrophobic. There are protective overlays around the toes, heel and sides of the boots. These ensure the boots hold their shape and do not tear easily.
The KEEN Targhee Hiking Boot is available in regular and wide widths. The toe box is very wide on both, leaving you plenty of wiggle room.
Cons
The insoles in these boots are some of the thinnest we tested. While they still offer some arch support, we advise adding in your own orthotics to get the most out of the boots.
Pros
- Cushioning and arch support
- Contoured Heel Lock System keeps feet stable
- Breathable mesh panels
Cons
- Thin insoles
Best Hiking Boot for Flat Feet and Overpronation (Men)
98/100
Our Score
Merrell MOAB 2
Merrell MOAB 2
Why this product?
Best hiking boot for men with flat feet. Supportive, comfortable, and durable. Available in vented and waterproof versions with chunky Vibram outsoles. Air cushion absorbs impact. Moisture-wicking mesh lining keeps feet dry. Blister-proof.
98/100
Our Score
The best hiking boot for men with flat feet and overpronation is the Merrell MOAB 2. Affectionately known as the Mother Of All Boots, the MOAB 2 is comfortable, durable and most importantly supportive. It’s available in both waterproof and vented versions. Featuring a chunky Vibrams outsole, these boots prevent your feet from rolling in as you walk. There’s a moulded arch shank that keeps your feet firmly planted on the floor and offers amazing arch support.
The M Select FIT.ECO EVA contoured footbed features enhanced zonal arch and heel support. It cradles your feet, securely locking them into place inside the boots. They’re also home to an excellent air cushion at the heel. This absorbs impacts and enhances stability, no matter the terrain you’re hiking through.
Each version of the boot is available with either a leather or suede upper. Both are super durable. There are thick, protective overlays around the toes, heels and sides of the boots. These ensure the boots hold their form and don’t get damaged if you start to overpronate. The mesh lining is moisture-wicking, preventing the build-up of sweat. It’s padded too, reducing the risk of chafing and blisters.
The overlays around the heel are more rigid and supportive. They act as an external strut, gripping your heel and preventing it from moving around. They work with the padded collar and tongue. Together with the mid-cut design, these protective features deliver an astounding level of support. And they do so without being too stiff or heavy.
The boots are available in regular or wide versions. Both can take an orthotic insole but they fit better in the wide model.
Cons
The waterproof version of these boots can cause your feet to get too hot. Especially if you are hiking in warmer weather. If you don’t necessarily need the waterproof functionality, we recommend choosing the vented version.
Pros
- Enhanced heel and zonal arch support
- No sweat build-up
- Padded mesh lining reduces risk of blisters and chafing
Cons
- Waterproof version can make feet too hot
Buyer's Guide: Best Walking Shoes for Flat Feet & Overpronation
Here’s what our team osteopath and physical therapist recommended for shoes for flat feet and overpronation.
Remember: this is not medical advice. This information is what we used for our research, made available for informational use only. Always consult a qualified doctor when in doubt.
A Footbed with Orthotic Features
Flat feet and overpronation are often caused by a collapsed arch. That’s why we want a shoe with an orthotic insole or footbed. It can fix our ankle posture, elevate the arch and put our foot in a neutral position (i.e. no overpronation).
We’ll also settle for shoes with a removable footbed we can replace with a custom, orthotic one. If the midsole and outsole have orthotic features too – for example, some outsoles have built-in arch support – even better. This is important for athletic and hiking boots that absorb more impact.
A Wide, Well-cushioned Heel Section
Overpronation and flat feet lead to two problems. The first is a hard heel strike, with too much of the impact falling on the rear of the foot. The second is poor foot posture and stability, with the foot rolling inward as we walk.
To help us with these problems we want two things.
First – cushioning around the heel, e.g. via a heel pad. A heel drop of up to 4-8mm is okay if it helps us get this cushioning. We really need to protect the achilles, the plantar fascia, etc from trauma.
Second – a stable heel that minimizes the foot rolling inward. This means a little elevation in the heel is ok, and it also means we want a tight heel cup, high eyelets and/or a wide heel base to minimize that inward roll.
A Durable Upper, Preferably with Reinforced Sidewalls
Overpronation means our feet are always rolling inward. If the upper is weak, it will quickly start stretching, fraying and tearing. That’s why we want a nice, durable upper; preferably with reinforced sidewalls. For mid and high models, a strong shaft can replace this feature.
Ankle support
We want ankle support because pronated feet can collapse inwards, leading to ankle instability and frequently rolled ankles. A tight lacing system that goes all the way up is good, a tight heel cup is good too.
Wide Models and Wide Toe Boxes
Flat feet with a collapsed arch are often longer and wider than healthy ones. We want a shoe with a wide base to accommodate this. This is doubly important here, because walking can tire the arch out and make flat feet even flatter.
A wide toe box is important too. Our toes help us move in a healthy, energy-efficient way when we walk – and if they’re constrained, we feel pain and discomfort.
Sock Liner Padding
A shoe that’s rigid on the inside will rub and chafe against the foot when you’re walking with overpronation. We want a nice, padded shoe with no pointy stitches that can hurt us.fl
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a shoe help fix my flat feet?
The answer depends on your specific foot condition. If you have a flexible flat foot, arch support shoes can help. If you have a rigid flat foot, i.e. one where the bones are flat – no. Don’t fret if this is your situation, though. Dr. Enes, our team osteopathis and physical therapist, says rigid flat feet can be functional and healthy.
Can a Birkenstock sandal or clog help with flat feet and overpronation?
I’m usually a big champion of the brand. I do not recommend open footwear for flat feet and overpronation, though. You need the foot stability a closed shoe can provide. At the very least, this means a low or mid heel section with eyelets you can lace up tight.
Conclusion
The best shoe for people suffering from flat feet and overpronation is the Propét Stability Walker (Men | Women). It’s specifically designed to treat the causes and symptoms of these problems.
The high-end ankle and arch support, as well as the wide toe box, ensure your feet feel as healthy as possible. At the same time, the hard-wearing upper, tough soles and nicely padded liner mean the shoes will stand the test of time.
Fortunately, there are many ways to fix flat feet, such as walking barefoot and physical therapy. Of course, choosing the right footwear is essential too.
Writer:
Tim Ashdown
