Flat arches are a common phenomenon that many adults face. Finding shoes that will not cause discomfort is a top priority when shoe shopping. But with so many shoe options it can be a difficult task.
The crew at AtHomeDaily has a few places to start. From running, lifestyle, high heels, and sandals, we have got you covered with this detailed guide.
Running Shoes
Low arches and flat feet cause a number of challenges for runners. There are two types of arches that runners might experience, anatomically low arches or collapsed arches due to muscle weakness. For both conditions, there are different types of running shoes you should look for in order to help your arches feel supported and comfortable. Runners with weak arches should add arch support into their shoes until the muscles have enough strength to sustain an arched food. Runners with anatomically flat arches, arch support sends stress up to the knee, resulting in knee problems.
- Stability shoes - these shoes control the overpronation of arches. Overpronation is when the arches of the foot roll inward after landing and it is common for flat feet. Stability shoes will control this motion.
Find some shoes here.
Walking/Lifestyle Shoes
Unfortunately, trendy converse and vans do not make the cut for this category. These popular shoes have flat soles, offering no arch support. Longwear of them will cause the soles of your feet to hurt. But don’t worry, we have some solid alternatives to these shoes that will provide a great look and comfortable wear. The right pair should firmly grip the heel and the toe box should have enough room to wiggle your toes. The middle part of the shoe should be somewhat flexible.
- Dr. Sholl’s No Chill Sneaker: These Van-like, slip-on sneakers have a cushioned insole that can be removed as well as a leveled platform outsole, which helps take the pressure off the heel
- Vionic Honey Sneakers: These trendy shoes, which were made with the help of a podiatrist, have a “cushioned EVA footbed with tons of support for low arches.”
High Heels
It’s a good thing leather heels are all the rave because they are the best to look for. The leather protects your feet from sweat and can also flex to your foot shape. Since toe space is important, you should try wide-fitting heels with room in the toe-box area to prevent crowding. Find heels with comfortable padding. Although it is not completely necessary, consider heels with an ankle strap because they will provide extra ankle support to keep your feet stable.
- IDIFU Women’s Platform Chunky High Heel - With these shoes, you will get lots of height and pizzaz with their 4.7-inch chunky heels and rounded toe. The high toe platform helps relieve some of the height that you would feel walking in other heels.
Sandals
Sometimes sandals can get a bad rep for their foot support. However, there are some great ones out there that offer the same amount of arch support as a tennis shoe would while allowing your feet some breathing room. Even better, most of the sandals listed are trendy and can be found almost everywhere.
- Birkenstocks - A classic pair of Birkenstocks will never mislead you. While they do take a while to break in and might hurt at the beginning, when the cork and latex of the footbed began to adapt, so will your feet.
- Chacos - These shoes are great for outdoor activities with their rubber soles and waterproof straps. Many like to wear these for hikes and other outdoor adventures. The flat footbed of the shoes relieves pain and the arch support ensures long-lasting comfortability for flat feet.
