What Are ‘Flat Feet’? And, How Do They Look?
Our body is engineered so perfectly, and how. We realize this only when there’s a deformity – and Flat Feet are one such example. Normal feet arch at the sides and do not come in contact with the floor entirely, balancing out the weight with a spring-like action between the front part of the feet and the rear. All of this is connected to the lower part of the leg, and affects the overall functionality. The absence of these arches causes the feet to touch the ground entirely, and the condition is called ‘Flat Feet’. Some people might not have absolute flat feet but an arch that is smaller than it should be, while for some it is unilateral – or just for one foot. The image is an excellent reference to understand how flat feet look like, but it is best to visit a physician or an orthopedic when in doubt.
How To Choose Flat Feet Shoes?
The inner arches act as shock absorbers and help with weight distribution etc., and since that is not present in people with flat feet, you need something that can suffice and make up for it. There are shoes that come with in-built raised insoles that give your feet the support and cushioning they need. While there are special orthopedic certified shoes you can purchase from surgical stores, there are other stylish options too. Some brands make comfortable and fabulous looking footwear for those with flat feet. Let’s look at them.
10 Best Running Shoes For Flat Feet (Overpronation)
1. Brooks Adrenaline
You would not normally pay attention to these things, but if you are suffering from flat feet or cannot take the pressure from high-intensity workouts, go for the best of the lot – Brooks. Brooks has a lot of variants that help people with overpronation, but ‘Adrenaline’ is by far the best. It has something called the DNA midsole that gives you extra cushioning and stability. It has a great grip and is good for all terrains and weather conditions. It’s worth everything you put in for buying these shoes.
2. Asics Gel Kayano
Asics, as you know, is one of the best in the industry and a go-to brand for sports apparel, shoes, and accessories. Kayano from Asics is specifically meant to help overpronation and people suffering from sensitive soles that prevent them from enjoying physical activities. There are other versions in this, but the latest Gel Kayano shoes come with an improved fit, gait control, shock absorption, and cushion support. Plus, these are highly durable.
3. New Balance Fresh Foam Vongo
New Balance shoes are all about being lightweight, comfortable, and breathable shoes that make your running experience as seamless as it can be. They cushion your feet without compromising on the style. These are one of the best in the line and provide balance like no other.
4. Nike Lunar Glide 9
Nike is an industry leader. Its innovative designs cater to all kinds of industry specifications, and there’s a separate stability category that takes care of overpronation too. The Lunar Glide 9 is the best from this category as it cushions the inner arch of your feet the right way and gives them the stability they need without putting too much pressure. The breathable knitwear material is another significant add-on to these shoes, while the flywire cables give your feet excellent support and keep them cool.
5. Mizuno Wave Inspire 13
If you are a runner or want to get into running but your flat feet or overpronation is dampening your hopes, Mizuno Wave Inspire 13 shoes are what you need. These are specifically designed to support your feet while running and reduce the pressure on your body that falls directly on your flat feet. They are lightweight, stable, shock absorbing, and durable – everything running shoes need to be.
6. Adidas Adistar Boost ESM
The Adistar Boost ESM shoes arch and fit the inner arches of your feet perfectly. They give you great balance and support. The price point is yet another aspect that makes these shoes irresistible. Runners love these for the responsiveness and the traction these shoes provide.
7. Brooks Beast 16
If you have been looking for sports shoes that protect your feet, chances are you stumbled upon Brooks, the Beast edition. They are all about cushion support and take the natural shape of your feet and have something called the Extended Progressive Diagonal Rollbar with better motion control. Look no further than the Brooks Beast 16, I tell you.
8. Saucony Freedom
Saucony specializes in making shoes that provide stability and constant cushioning to your feet. They hug your feet and take their shape, keeping them comfortable the entire time. They are lightweight, dynamic and one of a kind. You pick any random variant from Saucony – and you won’t go wrong.
9. Under Armor Spectre
Under Armor is known for its cutting-edge sporting goods and affordable accessories. Spectre from Under Armor comes with an internal heel counter to cushion your heel and protect them from pressure when they come in contact with the ground. It is extremely flexible, light, and easy on your body.
10. HOKA Bondi 5
If you are a seasoned runner, you would have heard of HOKA. It makes shoes for runners suffering from flat feet. Bondi from HOKA is specially designed to help runners with hard terrains and hikes, and give them support for extended periods.
