For individuals who have flatfeet, looking for the right kind of hiking shoes can be a bit challenging. In this post, we have shared the best hiking boots for flat feet to help you find the right type of hiking shoe for maximum comfort and support.
What Exactly Are Flat Feet?
This condition is also known as “pes planus” or “fallen arches”. Flat feet are often characterized by a flattened arch on the insides of your foot and when standing, the entire sole of your foot tends to touch the floor. This foot abnormality can be hereditary or can develop over time.
Usually, no treatment is necessary when it’s painless and doesn’t interfere with normal body function and movement. In cases where it causes pain and problems with the body, treatment can be done. Some of the treatments that can be done to correct this condition are by using appropriate footwear/ orthotics, lifestyle changes, medication, and foot surgery.
Benefits of Wearing Hiking Boots For Flat Feet
Compared to casual or regular shoes that you have, hiking boots offer more features that are tailored to keep you safe and comfortable on the trail.
- Support– People with flat feet don’t have enough support when walking. Hiking boots with enough arch support keep the feet comfortable, preventing pain and injuries along the way.
- Shock absorption– Hiking boots reduce the impact that can be transferred to your feet when walking or running preventing your foot from getting hurt or injured.
- Comfort- boots for hiking are specially developed to help you feel more comfortable when hiking. Maximum comfort may not be achieved when you wear regular shoes, especially on rugged terrains.
- Foot protection– Wearing hiking boots protects you from all sorts of things and conditions that can hurt your feet. From sharp objects to extreme weather conditions, hiking boots are a reliable companion.
Related Reading: Best Wide Toe Box Shoes For Hiking
Factors To Consider When Choosing Hiking Boots For Flat Feet
Material & Construction
A quality performance is achieved through quality material and construction. Hiking boots that are made from sturdy and durable materials are ideal to keep your feet protected in different conditions and terrains.
Arch Support
For hikers with flat feet, superior arch support is necessary. Hiking on rugged, slippery, and uneven terrains can be challenging especially for people with such conditions. To prevent pain and injuries along the way, choose hiking boots that offer excellent support for your arch, these can be seen on the insole design and materials, so make sure you check it.
Ankle Support
Aside from your arches, you should also give importance to your ankles. High ankle boots are especially beneficial if you are prone to roll and sprained ankles. Plus a high-cut boot provides extra protection for your foot and can reduce the impact on the sole of your foot when stepping.
Fit
Just like any other footwear, choosing the right fit for your hiking boots is essential. Wearing small and tight hiking shoes can lead to blister formation and other foot injuries. To find the right pair, you should know how to fit hiking boots properly.
Cushioning
Cushioning adds more comfort to your shoes, plus it also helps in shock absorption.
Insoles with deep heel cups can help decrease wear and tear on your feet. Added cushioning is also ideal for hikers with a heavy load Insole materials like Gel and foams are used to make your journeys pain-free every step of the way.
Outsole
Some terrains can be extremely demanding, wet conditions and slippery surfaces can make it more challenging. To prevent accidents and injuries, having reliable outsoles is an important factor. Deep and multi-directional lugs provide excellent grip for surfaces that are slippery and more rugged.
Weight
The weight of your hiking boots is another factor to consider. If you plan to go on a whole day hike, you should pick a more lightweight pair so as not to put too much strain on your foot. But you can also choose a heavier design and more rugged pair of boots if you plan to do multi-day hikes and you expect challenging terrains your way.
Other Features
Here are some other features you should keep an eye on when choosing the best hiking boots for you.
- Waterproof– Hiking boots that have a waterproof surface help keep your feet dry and protect your boots from being damaged by water or moisture when hiking.
- Breathability– On warm or hot weather conditions, the foot should have enough ventilation to keep it cool throughout your hike.
- Insulation– To keep your foot warm in colder weather, your hiking boots should provide enough coverage and insulation.
What Are The Best Hiking Boots For Flat Feet?
Having a flat foot when hiking isn’t so much of an issue when you have reliable hiking boots that can provide enough arch support and protection for your special needs. You don’t have to spend hours looking for the best fit for you because we’ve rounded up the best hiking boots for flat feet that can make your hiking experience one for the books. Be sure to check them out!
Best Hiking Boots For Flat Feet
If you’re in the market for a hiking boot that matches your flat feet, look no further because The Salomon Men’s Quest 4D 3 GTX is one of the top hiking boots out there that are designed for flat-footed people. Just like its predecessor which has been loved by many hikers for its impressive performance, this version never fails to deliver as well. It is designed to provide ultimate support, comfort, and excellent grip for people with flat arches and overpronation. Plus it is super lightweight and won’t drag you down while hiking.
It comes with an ergonomic tongue for improved comfort, laces that stay tied better, and fresh design details. It is made from durable split suede leather and features a nylon mesh upper for better flexibility and breathability throughout your adventure.
The Ortholite footbed insert absorbs shock and the insole does a great job in wicking away moisture so your feet stay cool and dry. This GORE-TEX hiking boot is perfect for different types of terrain and weather conditions, it provides great waterproof protection whether it's raining or you’re crossing a stream.
Features
- 4D Chassis
- Contagrip- Salomon's branded grip technology
- GORE-TEX
- Lace-up closure
- Over-the-ankle
- Split suede leather
- Nylon mesh uppers
- Mud Guard
- Protective Rubber Toe Cap
- Heel cap and strap
- Gusseted Tongue
- OrthoLite footbeds
Pros
- Lightweight
- Perfect for people with flat feet
- Excellent stability and grip
- Breathable
- Waterproof
- 4D chassis offers protection and active comfort
- Ankle support
- Quick-dry interior
- Very durable
- Abrasion-resistant
- Great heel to toe protection
- Impressive lacing system that does its job all day long
Cons
- Not ideal for wider feet due to its snug fit
The original Merrell Moab has been on top of the game when we talk about comfortable all-around hiking boots. Continuing the legacy is the Merrell Moab 2 Mid Hiking Boot which offers great waterproof protection, stability, and high traction on different terrains, surfaces, and weather conditions. These impressive hiking boots are also perfect for people with flat feet and overpronation as they offer a 3D contoured footbed that helps in arch support. Included in the new and improved footbed is a molded resin heel that helps in heel support.
The Merrell Moab is known for its out-of-the-box comfort so you’ll be ready to hit the trail anytime you want. You’ll also see the suede upper with mesh that is breathable and water-resistant, adding to this is a silicone band on both sides of the shoe that provides additional support. The Vibram® outsole provides excellent traction, so whether you’re walking on mud and wet surfaces you’ll encounter no problem.
Features
- MSelect™ Dry Waterproofing
- Vibram® TC5+ Outsole
- Leather and mesh construction
- Bellows Tongue
- EVA midsole
- Gore-Tex lining
- The 3D contoured footbed
Pros
- Breathable
- Waterproof
- Ideal for flat feet and overpronation
- Lightweight
- Durable
- Snug fit
- Excellent traction
- Great performance even in different weather condition
- Arch and heel support
- Out of the box comfort
- A very short break-in period
- Wide Toe Box
Cons
- The not very durable lacing system
- A bit lacking when it comes to underfoot support
Want something different for your hiking boots? Unlike most boots with a mesh + leather construction, the Danner Mountain 600 4.5" offers a durable and waterproof suede leather upper that includes a moisture-wicking collar inside. For flat-footed individuals who are looking for durable, flexible, and lightweight hiking boots that offer enough arch support, this particular hiking boot is for you.
Inside this shoe is a Vibram SPE midsole with natural rubber and EVA that provides excellent cushioning and support. You can also find an Ortholite insole that adds support and better breathability. It uses Vibram technology both inside and out for superior comfort and performance and Vibram Fuga's Megagrip "sticky" rubber outsole that provides excellent traction and grip on different surfaces.
Features
- Vibram technology
- Vibram Fuga's Megagrip rubber outsole
- SPE midsole with natural rubber and EVA
- Ortholite insole
- Danner Dry's 100% waterproof barrier
- Nylon shank underfoot support
- Built on the DPDX last
Pros
- Breathable
- Waterproof
- Great traction whether n wet or dry surfaces
- Excellent cushioning
- Arch support
- Moisture-wicking and quick-drying materials
- Sleek design
- Highly abrasion-resistant
- Durable
- Can handle different types of terrains
Cons
- Not 100% waterproof
- A bit pricey
The Vasque Inhaler II GTX is made from Gore-tex waterproof, breathable liner with extended comfort technology that is perfect for every type of hiker and is flat feet friendly. The upper is made from 1.6 mm PU coated leather and abrasion-resistant mesh that is long-lasting, breathable.
The mesh upper provides great ventilation, which makes this footwear perfect in hot weather conditions. Adding to this is the lace-up closure that provides a snug fit for a more secured hiking experience. It has a dual-density footbed that provides excellent comfort and support throughout. Also, one great thing about it is its wide toe box feature that provides enough space for toe movement.
The EVA midsole plus TPU shank insert provides enough stability and support for more quick-paced hiking. Last but not the least is the Vibram pneumatic outsole that features mega grip compound rubber that is durable and reliable on different types of surfaces.
Features
- Gore-tex with extended comfort technology
- Rubber sole
- Air mesh and Leather upper
- Dual Density Footbed
- EVA midsole
- TPU shank insert
- Vibram pneumatic outsole
Pros
- Very Breathable
- Great as hot weather hiking
- Abrasion-resistant mesh upper
- Waterproof
- Snug fit
- Wide toe box
- Durable
- All around traction
- Super lightweight
- Arch support and stability
Cons
- Provides moderate stability
- Not fully waterproof
Timberland was founded in 1973 and is based in Stratham, New Hampshire. This global outdoor lifestyle brand is famous for its original yellow boot and is widely known today for producing different footwear, apparel, and accessories that are great for anyone who loves the outdoors as well as for people who believe in sustainable living.
Although it is made of full-grain leather, the Timberland Women's White Ledge Mid Ankle Boot is quite lightweight and won’t drag you down mid-trail. Aside from its stylish and classic design, it is constructed with a seam-sealed leather upper that is waterproof which helps to keep your feet dry when the rain pours or when you cross a stream. Lace-up closure helps to achieve a snug fit and a pull loop at the back that makes it easier to put on and off. The padded collar and tongue provide additional comfort for the wearer, and the fully gusseted tongue helps keep out debris as you walk. It features a Dual Density EVA midsole for lightweight cushioning and a rubber lug outsole for excellent traction on different surfaces.
Features
- Premium waterproof leather uppers
- Padded collar and tongue
- Fully gusseted tongue
- Cushioned EVA footbed
- Dual-density EVA midsole
- Rubber lug outsole
- Lace-up closure and pull loop
Pros
- Full leather
- Waterproof
- Wide sole
- Classy style
- Excellent traction
- Seam-sealed
- Comfortable and provides support even on long hikes
- Available in different colors
- Follows naturally to the bending of your foot when walking
- Durable
- Thick ankle padding
- Reasonable price
- Moisture-wicking lining
Cons
- Not fully waterproof
- Some reviewers complain about water leaking through the seams
New Balance is known for producing the finest shoes you can find on the market. With the goal to help athletes achieve greater heights and for people to live a more healthy and active lifestyle. Their products are the perfect combination of function and style, giving performance technology you need, in the style that you want.
An innovative update to the New Balance 1569 , The Women's WW1400V1 feels like a walking shoe but is built for rugged terrain. This stylish boots is more than meets the eye, its quality construction and durability is evident with its full packed features. It features a waterproof membrane, leather upper and gusseted tongue to help keep you dry. And a Rollbar technology for rear foot and midfoot stability to keep you on the right path. Because of its stability and support features it is perfect for people with foot problems or injuries. Its 5- inch ankle shaft and compression EVA foam midsole provides more comfort for people with flatfeet.
Features
- Compression molded EVA midsole
- 5- inch ankle shaft
- Comfortable collar foam
- Internal waterproof bootie
- Seam-sealed
- leather upper
- Thinsulate® Quilted B200 lining
Pros
- Durable
- Textiles/laces/thread are all non-wicking
- Waterproof
- Offers excellent stability and support
- Stylish
- Versatile and can be used for different outdoor activity
- Reasonable price
- Great cushioning and ankle support
Cons
- Not suitable for hiking with heavy loads
Exercise For Flat Feet
To help correct and manage the pain that goes with flat feet, you can insert these super easy exercises in your daily routine or you can also do this to prepare your feet for when you hike.
- Heel stretching– Stand with your hands resting on a wall at the shoulder or eye level, then keep one leg forward and one leg extended at the back. Press both your heels firmly on the floor for about 30 sec and do this 4 times on each side. Make sure that you keep your spine straight as you do the exercise.
- Tennis or golf ball rolls– Sit on a chair and place a golf or tennis ball under one foot and roll them under your feet. The spine should always be straight, do this on each side for 2-3 min.
- Arch lift– Stand with your feet directly underneath your hips and roll your weight to the outer edges of your feet as you lift your arches as far as you can, then return to the original position. Do 10–15 repetitions in 2 to 3 sets.
- Towel curl– Spread a thin towel flat on the floor and place your bare foot on it. Keep your heel in place, pull the towel toward you by grabbing it with your toes and arch. 5 reps on each foot.
- Achilles Stretch– Stand on a step with your heels out and hanging off, slowly drop your heels down to the edge then bring them back up to the step level after 15 sec. Repeat it for 5 times.
Are Hiking Boots Good For Flat Feet?
Hiking boots offer support, stability, and protection for your feet when hiking. When choosing hiking boots for people with flat feet always look for boots that offer superior arch and ankle support for a more comfortable and pain-free hike. Aside from these benefits, wearing quality hiking boots protects your foot from getting blisters and foot injuries.
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