It was day one of my first solo trip, and I already had my legs elevated against the wall above me in Stockholm’s Story Hotel. My feet were in such excruciating pain, I couldn’t bear the thought of standing.
Throughout my travels, this became routine until a podiatrist told me what I already knew: I have flat feet. The condition affects up to 37 percent of the population, according to a National Library of Medicine study, and can go unnoticed; For some, it can cause pain with every step. My extreme case eventually was diagnosed as posterior tibial tendonitis, an inflammation of my foot and ankle tendons.
“For anyone who has symptomatic flat feet, the more they walk without proper support, the greater the chances for potential foot issues,” says Justin Hill, a certified pedorthist with Hanger Clinic. “For many travelers, these issues are worse when on a trip because they are more active than when they are at home. This is further compounded by wearing unsupportive shoes, such as slip-ons or flip-flops.”
While I imagined being confined to clunky orthopedic footwear for the rest of my life, it turns out there are plenty of supportive options, if you know what to look for. So I talked to experts about finding the best shoes for travelers with flat feet.
What to look for in a shoe
In general, a low arch doesn’t necessarily mean you’re symptomatically flat-footed, so first consult with a professional, as everyone’s feet are different, says New York University’s Dr. Louis Iannuzzi, who is on the Pedorthic Footcare Association Board of Directors.
Hill says structural support and fit should be top priorities when looking for a supportive shoe, and suggests getting your feet measured with a Brannock device regularly. “Feet do slowly change over time and people are [often] wearing the wrong size because they just continue to get the same size they have always gotten,” he says.
You can learn a lot by giving shoes a twist. “I tell my patients if they can wring their shoe like a washcloth, they aren’t getting any support,” Hill says, adding that only the ball of the shoe should be flexible. “Any side-to-side bending is a clear indication of lack of support, which could contribute to eventual discomfort or pain.”
Built-in arch support can be hit or miss since they’re not molded for each individual foot. The same goes for the best shoe materials. “A person with plantar fasciitis most often benefits from a firmer material like cork or plastics like polypropylene,” Hill says. “Conversely, a person with diabetes would benefit from a softer material, like a plastazote-based support.”
With that in mind, here are some of the best shoes to consider for those in need of extra support.
Find the best arch support shoes by category:
Sneakers for active adventures
When I first started running, I went to my local Fleet Feet, where employees studied and measured my feet before pointing me to Brooks—which is the top recommended brand as soon as I say the words “flat feet,” followed by New Balance and certain models of Hoka—all passing the twist test. Other supportive athletic shoe brands: Saucony and Asics.
Brooks Dyad 11 sneaker
Just how foot-healthy are the Brooks Dyad 11? They earned the American Podiatric Medical Association Seal of Acceptance, after a committee of podiatrists tested them out. And it’s no surprise. While Brooks are all designed based on support, this pair has extra stability, thanks to Dual Arch Pods that provide ultimate support, and a wider footbed since flat-footed folks tend to need extra room. Also helpful: The brand’s site as an interactive Shoe Finder tool that has you do certain exercises to find the best support for your specific needs.
New Balance Fresh Foam X 860v13
After an injury, this was the first shoe I was able to wear comfortably without custom orthotics. This pick from New Balance’s Fresh Foam series ups the game with both stability and comfort. Since flat footers tend to overpronate, this shoe is engineered with a medial post—a device in the midsole that’s firmer than the rest of the sole—to keep feet aligned.
Hoka Clifton 9 sneaker
After both my physical therapist and orthopedic doctor suggested Hokas, I went back to my local Fleet Feet where they scanned my foot (which is indeed so flat I naturally overpronate) and pointed me toward Clifton, a popular entry-level shoe from the brand known for its oversized soles. Immediately, it hit just the right combo of being both soft and light, yet so supportive. The latest version weighs even less and has an extra 3 mm in stack height. Designed for walking and everyday runs, the vegan shoe made of recycled materials has balanced cushioning and neutral stability, providing just enough give for flexibility on any adventure you choose. I wear them so regularly, I’m already on my third pair—and even though doctors told me never to run long distance again, my Hokas have gotten me through 18 weeks of Boston Marathon training and will be on my feet on race day!
Asics Gel-Kayano 30 road-running shoe
This stabilized running shoe is specifically designed for flat-footers and those with low arches. While it’s lighter than its predecessors, the latest model uses energetic medial foam to help guide the foot to a more effective gait, as well as a wider base for more stability.
Saucony Guide 17
Support and cushioning are maximized in this aptly named Guide line from Saucony. The top priority here is comfort, with a sole that feels plush and absorbs shock, yet still gently directs the foot in the direction of ultimate stability, using its Centerpath Technology, to optimize your strides.
Walking shoes for sightseeing
“Walking shoes should have a comfortable fit and minimize energy expenditure and impact” when you’re taking a step, Iannuzzi says, suggesting that you look for styles with rigid soles, toe spring, medial reinforced arch support, and shock-attenuation materials in the sole. Brands like Propét, Mt. Emey, Rockport, Saucony, Brooks, and New Balance fit the bill.
Birkenstock Honnef High boot
Despite its long history, Birkenstocks only launched its first closed-toe shoe in recent years modeled off the original arch support system, showcased in the unisex Honnef boot. Available in both low and high styles, the lace-up style keeps things secure while the four-part insole has moisture-wicking microfiber, supportive cork and jute layers, and added shock absorption and cushioning.
Oofos OOMG EEZEE low shoe
Oofos may be known for its sandals, but its same strategies for comfort are applied to this walking shoe. The sole’s design is made to cut back on stressors on the ankles, as well as knees and other joints. Plus, the four-way stretch fabric is unbelievably comfy, and the shoes are machine washable. Bonus: This is a perfect recovery shoe for long-distance runners.
On Running Cloudflyer 4 sneaker
Quickly becoming a favorite among runners for its light yet sturdy comfort, On Running’s Cloudflyer 4 merges all-day comfort with a stability like no other. That includes a heel counter and specially molded sock-liner to lock the foot in place. You can also feel good knowing that the cloud-like shoe is made of 80-85 percent recycled polyester.
Vionic Uptown Loafer
Here’s what Vionic does best—take the patented footbed it’s known for with orthotic-grade arch support and apply it to styles that don’t disclose your foot problems. This everyday loafer, made with post-consumer recycled materials, combines that solid support with extreme flexibility and a grippy sole. But the best part for travelers is how packable these loafers are—the upper (which comes in either super soft leather or suede) squishes easily, yet retains its shape and support. From the moment I slipped these on, I haven’t given my foot issues a second thought.
Sandals for beach vacations
Flip-flops get widely criticized for their lack of support—but there are beach-friendly shoes that offer protection. “Generally some sort of built-in arch is preferable,” Hill says. “[Plus,] sandals that have a back strap keep the foot in place better than a generic flip-flop.” Birkenstock, Teva, Keen, Naot, Propét, and Sole fit the mold.
Birkenstock Honolulu Eva sandal
The legendary support of Birkenstocks, which originated in the 1930s, holds up to this day. Not only does the design support arch health, but its deep footbed also helps hold feet in place. “That’s the top of the line,” Ianuzzi says. Though best known for its cork and latex cores, this waterproof EVA twist provides a more flip-flop-like profile to blend in with other beachgoers.
Aetrex Jillian Sport sandal
The water-resistant version of Aetrex’s longtime favorite shoe is the ultimate beach companion. The EVA foam makes it feel weightless, while the contoured arch support and rearfoot, along with a forefoot support pod, work together to lighten the pressure, even during long walks on the sand.
Therafit Taylor Women’s Sports Sandal
Get active on the sand with these sports sandals that will make you forget you have shoes on. The specially-shaped footbed accounts for all of the subtleties, including a thoughtful heel cup and powerful arch support, all with the goal of keeping you light on your feet. Available in three colors, the water-resistant straps and grippy soles will make your day at the beach feel like, well, a day the beach.
Hari Mari Fields Puebla sandal
This pool-friendly pair is made of premium vegetable tan leather and organic hemp straps. Hidden in its design is a slight boost of support—its raised inner arches and cupped heel ease the pressure just enough for those with low arches.
Teva Mush Mandalyn wedge sandal
Give yourself a boost with these wedges that have a cushioned sole that will conform to your feet to cradle you on any surface. The quick-drying straps mean you can seamlessly go from sand to streets without missing a beat. The earth-friendly slide contains Repreve polyester, recycled plastic webbing, and a peppermint-based antimicrobial—plus, it can be recycled through the company’s TevaForever program.
Dress shoes for romantic getaways
“This area gets a little tricky as, by design, dress shoes are typically fashion-forward and not great for your feet,” Hill says, adding to opt for little to no heel. But that doesn’t mean all the fun of dressing up should be stripped away. “Most people with flat feet can still wear pretty much any shoe without much consequence for a short period of time,” he adds. For weddings and other special events, it’s okay to bring fashionable shoes; just get back into your more supportive shoes as soon as you can, he says.
Vionic Lizbeth backstrap sandal
Vionic’s trademark arch-supported footbeds are embedded in every shoe in the line, even dress shoes. These strappy sandals are accentuated with metallic details to add a bit of a shine to a sandal that’s ready for both date nights and destination weddings. The lightweight midsole absorbs stress to keep you dancing all night long.
Orthofeet Gramercy dress shoes
Not all flat feet are created equal—and these Orthofeet shoes acknowledge that with an arch booster that’s adjustable so that it can be moved to exactly where you need that lift. Add to that an insole with heel pain relief, a wider toebox, and upgraded cushioning, and it’s pretty much like wearing sneakers in dress shoe form.
Birdies The Heron flat
While flats are never ideal for flat feet, these vegan velvet smoking slippers—inspired by Venetian gondoliers—integrate Birdies’ seven-layer comfort for those special occasions. The shock-absorbing insoles are reinforced in the arch and heel and made of quilted satin and leather for ultimate coziness. Just how sure are they? Birdies offers a 30-day fit guarantee with free shipping and returns.
Kuru Coda Suvi slip-on sandals
There’s a certain air of timelessness about these slip-ons from Kuru, known for its pain-relief technology, cupping the heel and contouring the arch in the brand’s own patented way, making it a favorite for chronic foot pain sufferers. With a touch of luxury with the leather straps and microfiber footbed, this is one pair of sandals you won’t feel like you need to kick off your feet by the end of the night.
Boots for city exploration
City boots can be one of the hardest shoes to find since they tend to squeeze the foot. Iannuzzi says to look for “adequate room for the forefoot ball to accommodate splay and at least one thumb-width between the longest toe and the end of the shoe to prevent the jamming of the joints.”
Vionic Shantelle waterproof ankle boot
Billing themselves as the “most supportive shoes ever,” this savvy oiled nubuck boot with a 2″ heel provides an orthopedic feel with a stylish look. This pair offers the brand’s highest level of arch support, plus the waterproof zipper on the insides make it easy to slip on and off.
Dansko Cagney suede bootie
Another popular brand among foot specialists: Dansko. Natural arch technology is built into its removable EVA footbeds, allowing flexibility for those with custom orthotics. While Dansko is known for its professional clogs, many designed for medical staffers on their feet all day, the brand also offers walking shoes and boots. This any-occasion suede design even offers odor control to keep you fresh and clean, no matter how far your day takes you.
Noat Maestro ankle boot
My foot shape has never melded well with ankle boots until I met the Noat Maestro. The cork and latex footbed hugs my sole while providing just a sliver of arch support, molding to what my foot needs. The classic everyday look makes it a year-round staple, especially since it’s water-resistant, ready to take on spring rain, fall storms, and even a bit of winter snow. Note: Only available in whole sizes, I sized up to 9 from my normal 8.5 for a perfect fit.
Hiking boots for camping trips
Adventures in the woods, where surfaces tend to be unpredictable and uneven, require an extra dose of support, especially around the ankles.
Canada Goose Journey boot
Best known for its ultra warm jackets, Canada Goose also has a footwear line, including the Journey Boot, inspired by classic hiking boots made for the Alps’ harshest conditions—and the midsole’s cushion is underlined by a stabilizer for ultimate arch support and comfort. The waterproof Italian shoe is classified on Canada Goose’s thermal experience index of “versatile” in warmth in the 5 to 32 degree Fahrenheit range.
Merrell Moab 3 hiking boot
The dependability that comes with Merrell’s high-performing outdoor wear is merged with Gore-Tex’s gold standard of waterproofness in this simple yet powerful hiking boot, that‘s become my go-to for the last few years. A At 16.36-oz. per shoe, it’s a hearty design, which equals stability throughout. The Kinetic Fit-blend contoured footbed strengthens the heel and a molded nylon shank adds arch support, while Vibram traction on the soles prevents slipping on slick surfaces, eliminating any flat-footed hiker’s worries——and taking me on adventures I thought were out of my range.
Columbia Konos TRS Outdry shoe
Let’s face it: hiking shoes can be a pain to pack—which is what makes this Columbia Konos hiking boot disguised as a sneaker so brilliant. The versatile look fits in with casual city days, but is tough enough for the trails, with built-in deflection domes to keep you stable, and a grippy sole to grab onto any terrain. Most impressively, its Outdry breathable waterproof material (which I’m obsessed with in Columbia’s jackets, like the HikeLite) is integrated into the upper here—and has stood the test, keeping my feet bone dry during New York’s recent bouts of extreme rain.
Keen Targhee II Waterproof hiking boots
That stability necessary to navigate ever-changing surfaces often makes boots rigid and painful—but somehow Keen has managed to make these hikers completely comfy. So much so that these boots come with a 30-day trial to guarantee they’re a perfect fit. But the most feel-good aspect of these shoes is that they’re sourced ethically with water-repellent materials and are PFAS-free with eco-friendly anti-odor technology.
