The best running shoe for flat feet depends on how your feet move, what feels comfortable, and where you run—not on arch height alone. Runner’s World’s August 11, 2026 roundup names eight shoes for different purposes, from daily training to racing and trails. Treat those picks as a shortlist, then use fit and comfort to decide whether any is right for you.
Eight running shoes for flat feet, by use
The models below are Runner’s World’s editorial picks, not a guarantee of clinical benefit or personal fit. Its roundup says its editor reviewed testing data from approximately 300 wear-testers, who logged hundreds of miles and assessed comfort, fit, and ride. Contributors also consulted chiropractor Kimberly Davis and physical therapist Jay Dicharry. Those are descriptions of the publication’s review process, not findings from a clinical study. See the Runner’s World roundup, updated August 11, 2026.
| Model | Stated use | Support style | Cushioning and ride | Heel-to-toe drop | Available widths | Terrain | Fit notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Brooks Adrenaline GTS 25 | Daily trainer | Not stated in the cited roundup | Not stated in the cited roundup | Not stated in the cited roundup | Not stated in the cited roundup | Road; the roundup does not state a terrain specification | Assess heel hold, midfoot feel, and width in person |
| New Balance Ellipse | Budget choice | Not stated in the cited roundup | Not stated in the cited roundup | Not stated in the cited roundup | Not stated in the cited roundup | Not stated in the cited roundup | Confirm the fit and current size and width options with the retailer |
| HOKA Arahi 8 | Lighter daily trainer | Not stated in the cited roundup | Not stated in the cited roundup | Not stated in the cited roundup | Not stated in the cited roundup | Road; the roundup does not state a terrain specification | Check whether the heel and midfoot feel secure without pressure |
| ASICS Magic Speed 5 | Speedwork | Not stated in the cited roundup | Not stated in the cited roundup | Not stated in the cited roundup | Not stated in the cited roundup | Road; the roundup does not state a terrain specification | Try it at the pace and with the socks you expect to use |
| Saucony Guide 19 | More cushioned support | Not stated in the cited roundup | Described by the roundup as more cushioned support | Not stated in the cited roundup | Not stated in the cited roundup | Road; the roundup does not state a terrain specification | Check comfort and width; “support” is an editorial category, not a diagnosis |
| Altra FWD VIA 2 | Zero-drop option | Not stated in the cited roundup | Not stated in the cited roundup | Zero drop, per the roundup’s use label | Not stated in the cited roundup | Not stated in the cited roundup | Choose zero drop for that ride preference, not simply because you have flat feet |
| HOKA Rocket X 3 | Marathon racing | Not stated in the cited roundup | Not stated in the cited roundup | Not stated in the cited roundup | Not stated in the cited roundup | Road; the roundup labels it for marathon racing | Evaluate it for race-day fit and comfort rather than assuming it suits daily miles |
| HOKA Speedgoat 7 | Trail running | Not stated in the cited roundup | Not stated in the cited roundup | Not stated in the cited roundup | Not stated in the cited roundup | Trail running | Prioritize secure fit on the terrain you run |
The roundup’s use labels help narrow the field, but it does not establish comparative drop, width availability, or detailed cushioning specifications for these models in the cited material. Check the current manufacturer or retailer listing and try the shoe where possible; model generations, sizes, and widths can vary by market and stock.
Do flat feet mean you need a stability shoe?
No. A low arch by itself does not show that a runner needs a stability shoe. Flat feet can be flexible or rigid, and those patterns do not call for an identical choice. Tom Biernacki, DPM, FACFAS, a foot and ankle surgeon, describes stability shoes as cushioned trainers with added structure around the heel and arch to resist inward rolling. His guide also qualifies that advice: some flexible flat feet may benefit from stability, while a painless rigid flat foot may be comfortable in a neutral shoe. The guide is at Podiatrist Tested, updated October 2, 2026.
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#1 Best Overall
- Athletic mesh upper with durable leather overlays for added dimension & midfoot support
- Charged+ midsole cushioning provides unmatched softness & all-day comfort
- Durable rubber outsole provides traction & durability with strategically-placed flex grooves for proper toe-off , Upper contains at least 30% recycled content
- Weight: 10.2 oz , Lace type: Standard tie
- NEUTRAL: For runners who need a balance of flexibility & cushioning
Use stability as a shoe category to try, not as a diagnosis or a requirement. If a shoe feels intrusive, uncomfortable, or changes your stride unpleasantly, its stability label is not a reason to persist with it.
How to check fit before choosing
A practical try-on is more useful than choosing by the words “flat feet” or “arch support” on a label. The checks below come from Biernacki’s guide; they are screening and fit checks, not a diagnosis or replacement for a clinical assessment.
Rank #2
- THIS MEN’S SHOE IS FOR: The Adrenaline GTS 25 is perfect for runners and walkers seeking reliable support and a smooth ride. Featuring holistic GuideRails for Go-To Support and soft, dynamic premium nitrogen-infused DNA LOFT v3 cushioning, it delivers distraction-free comfort mile after mile. This Brooks Adrenaline GTS 25 is a certified PDAC A5500 Diabetic shoe and has been granted the APMA Seal of Acceptance. Predecessor: Adrenaline GTS 24.
- GUIDERAILS HOLISTIC SUPPORT SYSTEM: Our innovative technology - known as “GTS” for “Go-To Support” - supports your body in its natural motion path while keeping excess movement in check.
- SOFT & DYNAMIC CUSHIONING: Even more premium nitrogen-infused DNA Loft v3 cushioning delivers lightweight softness, and feel-good comfort mile after mile.
- TRUSTED FIT: The breathable engineered mesh upper and flat-knit collar offer a secure, comfortable fit, providing both structure and flexibility to accommodate natural movement during active use.
- SMOOTH TRANSITIONS: The specially designed outsole and midsole work together to promote seamless transitions, ensuring comfort and support for every step, so you can stay active longer.
- Check the heel counter. Squeeze the back of the shoe to get a sense of heel structure, then try it on and notice whether your heel feels held without rubbing or pressure.
- Feel midfoot resistance. Gently twist the shoe and compare how much resistance it offers. Consider whether the feel is comfortable and appropriate for your running, rather than treating more resistance as automatically better.
- Bend at the forefoot. Flex the shoe where the toes meet the foot. Notice whether the bend feels natural to you and does not create discomfort.
- Check width and toe room. Make sure your foot is not squeezed across the forefoot and that the shoe feels secure through the heel and midfoot. Confirm that the size and width you need are currently offered.
- Observe the arch on a heel rise. The guide describes rising onto your toes to see whether an arch appears. Treat this only as a screening observation; it cannot establish what shoe or treatment you need.
When to consider an insole
An insole is optional, not an automatic add-on for flat feet. Biernacki’s guide says some runners may want additional arch fill or use an orthotic, while many may find a shoe alone sufficient. First see how the shoe feels without an extra insert unless you already use a prescribed orthotic or have been advised otherwise. If you add an insole, reassess shoe volume and fit: an insert can change how much room remains inside the shoe.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.How to use older recommendations
Older shoe lists can refer to previous generations. Michigan Foot Doctors’ guide names Brooks Adrenaline GTS 24, ASICS Gel-Kayano 31, New Balance 860v14, Saucony Guide 17, and HOKA Arahi 7. Those are older-generation models relative to the names in Runner’s World’s 2026 roundup; compare the exact generation on the box or product listing rather than assuming a recommendation carries over unchanged. See Michigan Foot Doctors / Balance Foot & Ankle’s guide.
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- FRESH FOAM CUSHIONING — Precision-engineered Fresh Foam midsole cushioning helps deliver a soft, cushioned, lightweight ride
- ALL-DAY COMFORT — Designed for all-day wear and everyday running, this women’s shoe blends soft cushioning with neutral support
- BREATHABLE MESH UPPER — A mesh upper with no-sew overlays helps create a sleek fit and feel with breathable comfort
- DURABLE RUBBER OUTSOLE — Durable rubber outsole construction supports daily wear, workouts, and everyday athletic activity
- SECURE LACE-UP FIT — Lace-up closure helps provide a secure fit, while the lightweight 194 gram design is ideal for all day wear
Rank #4
- THIS MEN’S SHOE IS FOR: The Adrenaline GTS 25 is perfect for runners and walkers seeking reliable support and a smooth ride. Featuring holistic GuideRails for Go-To Support and soft, dynamic premium nitrogen-infused DNA LOFT v3 cushioning, it delivers distraction-free comfort mile after mile. This Brooks Adrenaline GTS 25 is a certified PDAC A5500 Diabetic shoe and has been granted the APMA Seal of Acceptance. Predecessor: Adrenaline GTS 24.
- GUIDERAILS HOLISTIC SUPPORT SYSTEM: Our innovative technology - known as “GTS” for “Go-To Support” - supports your body in its natural motion path while keeping excess movement in check.
- SOFT & DYNAMIC CUSHIONING: Even more premium nitrogen-infused DNA Loft v3 cushioning delivers lightweight softness, and feel-good comfort mile after mile.
- TRUSTED FIT: The breathable engineered mesh upper and flat-knit collar offer a secure, comfortable fit, providing both structure and flexibility to accommodate natural movement during active use.
- SMOOTH TRANSITIONS: The specially designed outsole and midsole work together to promote seamless transitions, ensuring comfort and support for every step, so you can stay active longer.
Rank #3
- Lightweight, breathable mesh upper with synthetic overlays for added durability & support
- EVA sockliner provides soft, step-in comfort
- Charged Cushioning midsole uses compression molded foam for ultimate responsiveness & durability
- Solid rubber outsole covers high impact zones for greater durability with less weight
- Offset: 10mm
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