Flat feet refers to feet with no or very low arches in the inner part of the foot. While it isn’t a serious condition, it can make activities such as running painful. Fortunately, there are ways to help give support to those with flat feet in the form of insoles and shoes designed specifically to combat this problem. This post will tell you what the top 2 running shoes for flat feet for women are and how they can help.
Problems Caused By Flat Feet and How to Combat Them
Firstly, it is important to know how flat feet actually affects running. If you have flat feet, then you may have experienced one or two of these symptoms:
– Overpronation – The ankle rolls inwards when walking or running, which can cause shin splints.
– Pain in the heel, ankle, knee and lower back
– Bunions
Like we mentioned before, insoles (removable layer in the shoe) can be really beneficial to help combat flat feet. It is designed to give wearers extra comfort. To help with flat feet, you can use additional insoles to help maintain the arch of the foot and give it more support, especially if your shoes are not really suitable for flat feet.
However, if you are serious about running or run quite regularly, then we really recommend getting running shoes for flat feet. These shoes will really assist in protecting the lower limb from potential damage to the muscles and ligaments.
What to Look for in Running Shoes for Flat Feet
The best running shoes have specific features that work together to lessen the weight on the foot. Some common key features that the best running shoes for flat feet have include:
- Rigid middle part of the shoe – This shoe shouldn’t be able to fold or bend in the middle to maintain arch support.
- Rigid heel counter – This refers to the back of the shoe. Likewise, with the middle, the heel counter should not have the flexibility to bend so that the heel bone is properly supported.
What are the Best Running Shoes for Flat Feet for Women?
Fortunately, many brands are addressing the problem with flat feet for runners. Knowing what to look for in running shoes for flat feet can show you which shoes are best for you. The top two ranked best womens running shoes for flat feet are:
Brooks Ariel 16
One of the best running shoes for flat feet that has been consistently rated highly by wearers is the Brooks Ariel 16. Its arch support means that flat footed people will be able to run properly while reducing the issue of overpronation, even if it is on the more severe side.
Design
This shoe is one of the best running shoes for women with flat feet. It has element mesh and lining that helps the foot to breathe and it helps to repel water. The Omega Flex Grooves in the sole also enables wearers a more smooth movement when running.
Technology and Functionality
The star technology in this shoe is the Progressive Diagonal Rollbar (PDRB).
As you run, this technology helps that heel-to-toe transition, helping to stop the ankle from falling inwards. Your foot stays in place and is controlled as you run. The BioMoGo DNA midsole cushioning also assists, helping to adapt to every step that you take.
Accompanied by the Full-Length Segmented Crash Pad that helps your foot land safely on the ground and absorbs shock impact, there is a reason why Brooks Ariel 16 is considered one of the best womens running shoes for flat feet.
As we mentioned before, one of the main features that running shoes for flat feet should have is good support in the middle part of the shoe. The Brooks Ariel 16 definitely provides this. The insole is thick so the wearer gets that extra cushioning and padding. This also means that excellent midfoot and arch support is there as well.
Alternative for Men
If you want the male version of the Brooks Ariels 16, check out the Brooks Beast 16.
Nike LunarGlide 9
The Nike LunaGlide 6 was one of the favorite shoes amongst flat footed people so it is no surprise that the most recent upgrade – LunarGlide 9 – is better than ever.
Design
Upholding Nike’s standards of their aesthetically superior products, the LunarGlide 9 is no exception. With the trademark tick on the outer side, its one-piece textile makes for better breathability, while giving it a sleek and modern look.
As one of the best womens running shoes for flat feet, it comes in different colors such as a soft purple and the ever classic black, white and greys.
Technology and Functionality
Nike is one of the sportgiants for a reason. Their shoes are always high-quality, prioritizing comfort and durability for the wearer. The Nike Lunarglide 9 offers stability and motion control to runners. The sole has Lunarlon foam which enhances the cushioning on this shoe, making it one of the best womens running shoes for flat feet. It really helps to lessen overpronation of the foot which is extremely important.
Despite the extra cushioning though, it is still a lightweight shoe.
Nike has taken advantage of its Flywire technology with the Lunarglide 9. This refers to the filaments designed onto the shoe. They are strategically placed to maximize the support offered to wearers. Hence, the shoe gives you a very secure fit.
One factor that flat footed people need to take into account is the toe box. Most flat footed people have wider feet so they need more room in the upper sole of their shoes. The Nike Lunarglide 9 has an ample toe box that wearers will find very comfortable, which can really make a positive impact on your run and help combat potential problems.
Don’t Let Flat Fleet Stop You From Running
As you can see, having flat feet doesn’t need to interfere with your running. It just means that you may have to take extra steps to accommodate to them. This may include using insoles or wearing specific running shoes for flat feet. The good news is that with brands adapting to flat-footed people such as Brooks and Nike, you won’t be at a loss of finding the best running shoes for flat feet anytime soon.
Zen Labs Fitness offers a range of running apps for every runner. Whether you are new to running, if you want to improve or even if you have flat feet, there is something for everyone. Become the healthier version of yourself by downloading our apps today and join our amazing community!
Do you have a favourite shoe that helps with your flat feet? Let us know in the comments below, we would love to know!
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