Flat Feet is a medical condition wherein the arch of the foot is lower than the average curvature. This condition weakens the structure of the feet and hence affects the balance of the body weight while running or standing. The problem is most significant while running as most of them tend to overpronate the foot while walking. The inward rolling of feet while running due to collapse of arch is called overpronation. This puts excessive strain to the inner feet, big toes as well as to the tendons of the feet thus causing pain. Gradually the person becomes prone not just to foot pain, but can also other parts of the body like leg, knee and back.

The two different types of Flat Feet that one should always consider

Flat footed people can be divided into two types. First ones are the people who have anatomically flat feet, and others are ones who are suffering from muscle weakness that resulted in fallen arches. Their situation seems to be similar, but a single thumb rule can’t be applied for picking the right running shoes for them. The patients with weak foot muscles should choose the footwear, which can add arch support to their feet so that they can become stronger and be corrected to some extent. Whereas, this option might not be suitable for anatomically flat feet patients who can develop knee problems if they wear shoes with an added arch.

In today’s world, there is a plethora of athletic or running shoes. You can pick up any style or color, but the most crucial factors are the structure and comfort.Hence it is important to understand the type of the shoe needed for people having flat feet before buying them.

Types of running shoes available

• Cushioned shoes: This type of footwear is considered appropriate for a high arch or rigid feet patient as it provides enough support to the feet with softness.
• Stability shoes: This kind can be useful for people who have neutral feet and they have cushioning features as well as an adequate support. These shoes can be use with mild flat feet who don’t overpronate.
• Motion-control shoes: This type can be of great help for the people with flat feet and overpronators.

Which can be the ideal PAIR for flat feet patients for running?

Flat feet patients should go for the shoes which have the following characteristics:

• Stability to prevent arch collapsing

It is an essential feature that your running shoes should posses. Flat feet patients tend to put weight on the inside of the foot while running due to overpronation. So shoes that provide an extreme level of stability can help prevent the collapse of the arch when you are running.

• Support for the arch

Your shoe must have firm support that can compensate for the height of the arch and prevent injuries while running. But this feature of the shoe can also lead to problems for some patients.

• Motion control to restrict movements

This feature is considered as a must in footwear for people suffering from severe overpronation due to flat feet. It ensures a sturdy structure for the foot that can limit the foot movements.

• Ensure to have straight last

The last of the shoes refers to the shape of the mold. Straight last indicates that the shoe has enough space to move the foot freely and is less curvy in structure. This helps in avoiding injuries and pain.

• Pick most comfortable one

This is the key to buying any footwear. Always buy any shoe that provides you ample comfort. Compromising on this feature can result in many negative effects on foot health.

A few tips that can be helpful when you shop for running shoes

• Always look for a store that has a special range in running shoes and also have knowledgeable staff
• Never forget to try the shoes before buying them to check the comfort level
• Avoid shopping in the first half of the day as at the end of the day; your feet may be swollen and hence the shoe may not fit well.
• Always ask for return policy and guarantee, if the shoes don’t work for you

Which shoes are best for flat feet:

Based on our experience and consumer feedback, we have outlined some of the shoes available in the market that might be beneficial for people with flat feet. Here is the list:

1. Asics Gel Kayano
2. New Balance 860 series (v10)
3. Adidas Solarboost (ST19)
4. Nike Air Zoom (structure 22)
5. Nike Odyssey React
6. ASICS GT-1000 & GT-2000
7. Brookes Adrenaline (GTS 20)

If you are suffering from any foot problem, you can book your appointment with Dr. Anuj Chawla. He is an experienced and trusted foot and ankle surgeon in Gurgaon and has treated many patients in his medical career of 10+ years.