9 Best Gym Shoes for Flat Feet (2025): Expert Review

Finding the best gym shoes for flat feet can be frustrating. You buy a pair, hit the gym, and end up with sore feet. Flat arches need real support, not just soft foam or trendy logos.

The problem is, most gym shoes aren't made for flat feet. And when your arches collapse mid-workout, your whole body pays the price.

So we tested the top gym shoes made for flat feet in real workouts—treadmill, squats, HIIT, CrossFit, you name it. And yep, we found the ones that actually help.

Stick around, as we’re giving real opinions.

Key Takeaways

• We tested all shoes personally in real gym workouts.

• The Asics Gel-Kayano 30 is our top pick for all-around stability.

• Brooks Beast 20 is perfect for serious overpronation and heavy lifting.

• HOKA Arahi 6 is light, supportive, and great for circuit training.

• Reebok Nano X4 is the best CrossFit shoe for flat feet.

• Ultraboost ST looks good and supports flat arches all day.

• Altra Provision 7 is great if you want a natural, zero-drop feel.

Best Gym Shoes for Flat Feet (Proven List)

When it comes to gym shoes for flat feet, we’ve tried dozens over the years. Some made our feet ache, while others actually changed the game. We’ve tested these shoes in real workouts: lifting, cardio, HIIT, and treadmill runs.

Let’s start with our picks:

Asics Gel-Kayano 30

Gel-Kayano 30 is the best gym shoe for people with flat feet. You feel the stability the moment you put them on. The cushioning is soft but still firm enough to keep your foot from rolling in. During testing, we wore them for weight training and long treadmill sessions. No pain, no fatigue, just clean support.

One of our team members, Sarah, has struggled with flat arches and shin splints. She wore these for two weeks, and the pain literally disappeared.

Ratings

• Comfort: 4.8/5

• Durability: 4.6/5

• Breathability: 4.3/5

• Versatility: 4.5/5

Total Score: 4.55 / 5

Key Features

• Dynamic DuoMax Support System: Prevents overpronation and keeps your feet aligned

• Rearfoot and Forefoot GEL Cushioning: Absorbs shock in every step

• FF Blast+ Eco Midsole Foam: Soft, responsive cushioning that lasts

• Engineered Stretch Knit Upper: Hugs the foot without being tight

• 3D Guidance System: Supports the full gait cycle

• External Heel Counter: Gives a locked-in feel during movement

• Ortholite X-55 Sockliner: Adds extra comfort for flat feet

• AHARPLUS Outsole: Durable grip for gym floors and pavements

Pros / Cons

Brooks Beast 20 / Ariel 20 (Men/Women)

The Brooks Beast (for men) and Ariel (for women) are built with maximum support in mind. If your feet roll inward a lot or if your knees hurt during squats, these shoes help bring everything back in line. They’re not flashy, but they deliver big time when it comes to foot health.

Ratings

• Comfort: 4.6/5

• Durability: 4.7/5

• Breathability: 4.2/5

• Versatility: 4.1/5

Total Score: 4.4 / 5

Key Features

• GuideRails Holistic Support System: Keeps your knees and feet aligned

• BioMoGo DNA Midsole: Adapts to your stride for soft but responsive cushioning

• Engineered Mesh Upper: Breathable and stretches with your foot

• Spacious Toe Box: Allows natural foot spread during lifting

• Certified PDAC A5500 Diabetic Shoe: Medical-grade support level

• Soft Internal Padding: Prevents irritation and hotspots

Pros / Cons

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Nike Zoom Structure 24

Nike doesn’t always get flat feet right, but this one? It's a win. The Structure 24 is perfect for gym days when you’re jumping, running, or doing a mix of everything. It has a stable base and a nice, snug fit that gives enough arch support without feeling stiff. It’s not bulky like some other support shoes either.

Our teammate Rachel wore these for interval workouts and said they felt “springy but stable.” She has mild overpronation and said these helped her feel more balanced on the treadmill and during lunges.

Ratings

• Comfort: 4.⅘

• Durability: 4.3/5

• Breathability: 4.5/5

• Versatility: 4.6/5

Total Score: 4.45 / 5

Key Features

• Zoom Air Unit in Forefoot: Delivers responsive, cushioned takeoff

• Medial Post and Cushlon Foam: Provides stability for flat arches

• Secure Heel Fit: Locks the foot in place during fast movements

• Durable Rubber Outsole: Grips gym floors and outdoor surfaces

• Midsole Rocker Shape: Smooth transition from heel to toe

• Low-Profile Arch Support: Subtle but effective for mild pronation

Pros / Cons

New Balance 1540v3

The 1540v3 is secretly one of the most supportive gym shoes for flat feet. It’s firm, not flashy. But if you care about your joints and alignment, this shoe works hard.

We tested it during treadmill walks, deadlifts, and a few squat sessions. One of our testers, Leo, has wide, flat feet and found these to be the most stable of the bunch. The ENCAP midsole kept his foot steady and pain-free.

Ratings

• Comfort: 4.4/5

• Durability: 4.7/5

• Breathability: 4.0/5

• Versatility: 4.2/5

Total Score: 4.33 / 5

Key Features

• ENCAP Midsole Technology: Adds structure and shock absorption for stable movement

• ROLLBAR Stability System: Prevents rearfoot movement and inward rolling

• Synthetic Mesh Upper: Light and breathable with a secure fit

• Dual-Density Foam Collar: Cushions the ankle and keeps it locked in

• Blown Rubber Outsole: Durable grip that’s soft underfoot

• 10mm Drop: Comfortable for cross-training and cardio

• Medicare Approved (A5500 code): Designed for foot health and support

Pros / Cons

Flat feet or not, these shoes offer great support for overweight runners. Check out 10 best running shoes for overweight men.

HOKA Arahi 6

Hoka Arahi 6 is a great gym shoe for those wo have flat feet. You get arch support, shock absorption, and a soft feel without the bulk. This one’s great for people who want comfort and control while doing all sorts of gym workouts.

Ratings

• Comfort: 4.6/5

• Durability: 4.3/5

• Breathability: 4.5/5

• Versatility: 4.4/5

Total Score: 4.45 / 5

Key Features

• J-Frame Midsole Support: Corrects overpronation without using a hard post

• CMEVA Foam Midsole: Delivers lightweight and plush cushioning

• Early Stage Meta-Rocker: Encourages smooth transitions during motion

• Heel Pull Tab: Easy to slip on and off

• Flat-Waisted Geometry: Provides a stable base for movement

• Recycled Materials: Eco-friendly upper components

• 5mm Drop: Good balance of cushion and ground feel

Pros / Cons

Saucony Guide 16

The Guide 16 offers support in a natural, not-forced way. It’s great for gym workouts that mix cardio and weights. The cushioning isn’t overly soft, which helps when you need some ground control.

Ratings

• Comfort: 4.5/5

• Durability: 4.3/5

• Breathability: 4.4/5

• Versatility: 4.5/5

Total Score: 4.43 / 5

Key Features

• PWRRUN Foam Midsole: Soft landings with a stable base

• Hollow-Tech Stability Frame: Provides lightweight structure

• 8mm Drop: Balanced support for gym and running

• Flexible Forefoot: Allows natural movement

• Supportive Arch Fit: Prevents inward roll of flat feet

• Durable XT-900 Rubber Outsole: High wear resistance for gym floors

• Lightweight Construction: Easy to move and pivot in

Pros / Cons

Reebok Nano X4

We’ve tried many CrossFit shoes, but most ignore flat feet. The Nano X4 doesn’t. It gives a wide base, solid arch support, and a stable heel that feels grounded during lifts. You can jump, run, and lift in these without needing to switch shoes.

Ratings

• Comfort: 4.5/5

• Durability: 4.6/5

• Breathability: 4.4/5

• Versatility: 4.7/5

Total Score: 4.55 / 5

Key Features

• Lift and Run Chassis System: Stabilizes during lifts, flexes during runs

• Flexweave Knit Upper: Breathable yet durable for tough workouts

• TPU Heel Clip: Adds rearfoot stability for lifting

• Reinforced Laces and Eyelets: Stay secure through high-intensity sessions

• ROPEPRO+ Outsole: Built for grip during rope climbs

• High-Impact Cushioning Zones: Keeps feet pain-free through dynamic movement

• 7mm Drop: Balanced for both running and lifting

Pros / Cons

Adidas Ultraboost ST

The Ultraboost ST is one of the best gym shoes for flat feet. It’s built with dual-density Boost foam that gives extra support where your arch collapses. It’s soft underfoot, but not squishy like some neutral Ultraboosts.

Josh tested these for walking, treadmill runs, and all-day wear. He has mild overpronation and flat feet. His review? “I didn’t expect to like a stylish shoe this much. My feet didn’t hurt after 5,000 steps.”

Ratings

• Comfort: 4.6/5

• Durability: 4.4/5

• Breathability: 4.2/5

• Versatility: 4.6/5

Total Score: 4.45 / 5

Key Features

• Dual-Density Boost Midsole: Firmer foam under arch for stability, soft foam elsewhere for comfort

• Primeknit Upper: Flexible, breathable, and adapts to your foot shape

• Stability Support Cage: Locks the midfoot for control

• Torsion System Bar: Adds structure during forward movement

• Continental Rubber Outsole: Excellent grip on gym floors and outdoors

Pros / Cons

Altra Provision 7

The Provision 7 is built differently. It has a zero-drop sole, which means heel and toe are level. That can take some getting used to, but it promotes better posture and balance. What really makes this good for flat feet is the GuideRail system—it nudges your foot back into alignment if it starts to roll.

Ratings

• Comfort: 4.3/5

• Durability: 4.2/5

• Breathability: 4.5/5

• Versatility: 4.4/5

Total Score: 4.35 / 5

Key Features

• Zero-Drop Platform: Encourages natural posture and foot strike

• GuideRail Support System: Stabilizes foot only when needed

• FootShape Toe Box: Allows toes to spread naturally

• Altra EGO Midsole: Soft yet responsive foam cushioning

• Heel Fit System: Keeps heel secure without slippage

• Neutral Design: No overcorrecting, just soft control

Pros / Cons

Final Words

Finding the right gym shoes for flat feet is all about feeling supported and comfortable. We tested these shoes in real workouts so you don’t have to worry about sore arches or tired feet.

When you have the right pair, every workout feels easier and more enjoyable. The Asics Gel-Kayano 30 and Brooks Beast 20 are our top picks, but trust what feels good for you. With the right shoes, you can focus on fitness, not foot pain.