Best Running Shoes for Overpronation or Flat Feet

by jacky chou
Updated on

If you have flat feet, you know that maintaining your pace during runs can be challenging if you wear the wrong type of shoes. You need shoes that can support your fallen arch to ensure that your weight is well distributed on your feet to prevent discomfort. That is why you should only buy the best running shoes for overpronation.

This post discusses the best stability shoes for overpronators and the factors for consideration when making a purchase.

Let's get started! Our Top Picks

1. Best Overall - ASICS Women's GT-2000

ASICS Women's GT-2000 8 Running Shoes
  • REARFOOT AND FOREFOOT GEL TECHNOLOGY CUSHIONING SYSTEM - Attenuates shock during impact and toe-off phases, and allows movement in multiple planes as the foot transitions through the gait cycle.
  • FLYTEFOAM MIDSOLE TECHNOLOGY -Our Our FlyteFoam technology provides exceptional bounce back and responsiveness no matter the distance, utilizing organic super fibers to help reduce packing out that...
  • ENGINEERED MESH UPPER -Multi-directional mesh material improves ventilation and stability.
  • DYNAMIC DUOMAX SUPPORT SYSTEM -This evolution of DuoMax system enhances stability and support, with reduced weight and increased platform support.
  • TRUSSTIC SYSTEM TECHNOLOGY -Reduces the weight of the sole unit while retaining the structural integrity of the shoe.

Starting out our list of the best running shoes for overpronation is the New Balance Fresh Foam Stability Running Shoe. It features a thick Fresh Foam midsole that can keep you comfortable through short or long runs. This means that it delivers ample shock absorption to reduce the stress and impact that reaches your feet to help you maintain your pace on the track.

These New Balance stability shoes feature an engineered mesh upper that is lightweight enough to allow a healthy exchange of heat and moisture to keep your feet cool and dry. This means you can say goodbye to sweaty feet even when running on a hot day, thanks to the high level of breathability.

The medial post support on this pair of shoes is designed to help keep your strides aligned by controlling pronation. As a result, you'll feel more stable on your feet without the extra weight that normally characterizes stable running shoes.

Since the Ultra Heel feature ensures a snug fit by hugging the back of the foot, you won't feel this shoe coming off at any point during your runs.

  • Pros
  • Non-slip rubber outsole
  • Lightweight build
  • Arch support
  • Thick cushioning
  • Cons
  • Run a bit small

2. Best Value Shoe - ASICS Women's GT-2000 8

ASICS Women's GT-2000 8 Running Shoes
  • REARFOOT AND FOREFOOT GEL TECHNOLOGY CUSHIONING SYSTEM - Attenuates shock during impact and toe-off phases, and allows movement in multiple planes as the foot transitions through the gait cycle.
  • FLYTEFOAM MIDSOLE TECHNOLOGY -Our Our FlyteFoam technology provides exceptional bounce back and responsiveness no matter the distance, utilizing organic super fibers to help reduce packing out that...
  • ENGINEERED MESH UPPER -Multi-directional mesh material improves ventilation and stability.
  • DYNAMIC DUOMAX SUPPORT SYSTEM -This evolution of DuoMax system enhances stability and support, with reduced weight and increased platform support.
  • TRUSSTIC SYSTEM TECHNOLOGY -Reduces the weight of the sole unit while retaining the structural integrity of the shoe.

Second on this list of the best stability running shoes is the ASICS GT-2000, featuring a gel technology cushioning system that provides shock absorption around the forefoot and rearfoot areas. This enables you to move smoothly on different planes by enhancing motion control in your natural gait cycle.

Thanks to the FlyteFoam Midsole technology, you can expect this stability shoe to provide the responsiveness you need to keep running for long runs. As such, you'll get a high level of bounce back as you run, which can help energize you to go further. The engineered mesh upper facilitates multi-directional breathability to keep your feet dry and increases stability because of the secure fit it delivers as it hugs your foot.

These running shoes can also provide a secure platform to support your feet, courtesy of the DuoMax Support System which increases stability without unnecessary weight. As a result, this shoe remains a lightweight yet durable option that can meet your running needs without hassle.

  • Pros
  • Breathable
  • Lightweight
  • Great for flat feet
  • Durable
  • Comfortable
  • Cons
  • Run narrow, so sizing up is necessary for wide feet.

3. Best shoe for overpronation - Brooks Adrenaline GTS 21

Brooks Women's Adrenaline GTS 21 Running Shoe - Oyster/Alloy/Light Blue - 5
  • THIS WOMEN'S SHOE IS FOR: Runners looking for a supportive shoe that's soft and smooth, the Adrenaline GTS 21 offers an improved ride and reliable support for however your body moves so you can forget...
  • SUPPORT AND CUSHION: Provides just the right amount of stability and support, great for overpronation while providing high energizing cushioning. Ideal for road running, cross training, the gym or...
  • BALANCED, SOFT CUSHIONING: The DNA LOFT Crash Pad cushions each footfall and works with BioMoGo DNA to adapt to your every stride.
  • MODERNIZED FIT: A streamlined, engineered mesh upper with 3D Fit Print offers the structure and proven fit the Adrenaline is known for-without excess bulk.
  • GUIDERAILS HOLISTIC SUPPORT SYSTEM: We've shifted our focus beyond the feet to the most injury-prone part of a runner’s body: the knees. GuideRails keep you moving comfortably by keeping excess...

We also have the Brooks Adrenaline GTS 21 Stability running shoes, which are a great pick for runners who need a supportive option for better movement. These shoes are great for overpronators since they can provide the necessary stability to ensure the feet don't overpronate as you run.

The cushioning on this shoe is designed to energize your natural gait by reciprocating the energy you give with each step. This makes it suitable for a smooth ride when road running, workouts, or cross-training.

It comes with DNA Loft Crash Pad Cushions, which combine with the BioMoGo DNA to ensure comfort in every stride. As a result, you can experience relief from the pain you get from pronation. This means that runners can stay comfortable enough to run in these stable shoes all day without any discomfort.

The guide rails in these shoes are meant to prevent injury in other areas of your body other than the feet. Additionally, you'll get a secure fit since the engineered mesh upper will cover your feet without bulkiness to ensure a tight and lightweight feel throughout your run.

  • Pros
  • Stylish design
  • Ideal ventilation
  • Proper fit
  • Responsive performance
  • Cons
  • Not great for wet surfaces

4. Best Connected shoe - ASICS Gel-Kayano 27 Running Shoes

ASICS Men's Gel-Kayano 27 Running Shoes, 11, Sheet Rock/Magnetic Blue
  • Engineered mesh upper:
  • AHAR Outsole: Acronym for ASICS High Abrasion Rubber. Placed in critical areas of the outsole for exceptional durability.
  • Rearfoot and Forefoot GEL Technology Cushioning System: Attenuates shock during impact and toe-off phases, and allows movement in multiple planes as the foot transitions through the gait cycle.
  • EVA Sockliner: Removable sockliner that provides cushioning performance.
  • Dynamic DuoMax Support System: This evolution of DuoMax system enhances stability and support, with reduced weight and increased platform support.

Next, we have the ASICS Gel Kayano 27, which is also among the best running shoes for overpronation. With a solid heel counter, you can rest assured that you'll get the support you need from stable running shoes. They feature a DuoMax system that improves the level of stability without adding weight.

The outsole on this shoe isn't as heavy as those you find in standard running shoes since it features a Space Trusstic System Technology. As such, it can provide the solid support you need without extra weight dragging your performance down.

The forefoot and rearfoot sections have GEL Cushioning for maximum shock absorption during your daily runs. It also makes it easier for overpronators to maintain a neutral gait that allows transitions from multiple angles. Plus, the outsole features AHAR Plus material designed to add durability to critical areas of the shoe to ensure long-lasting performance.

  • Pros
  • High breathability
  • Ample cushioning
  • Supportive heel counter
  • Light
  • Cons
  • Expensive

5. Best supportive shoe - Saucony Men's Seasonal Guide 14 Running Shoe

Sale
Saucony Men's Seasonal Guide 14 Running Shoe, Storm/Frost
  • Newly formulated PWRRUN foam packs in more responsiveness with a softer feel than most other EVA formulations, so it delivers a livelier sensation than what stability-seeking runners are accustomed...
  • The tonal medial TPU guidance frame and 3D-engineered fascia in the upper both help deliver 360 degrees of stability while disappearing into the design of the shoe for a clean overall look
  • FORMFIT addresses the collective constructions that help our shoes wrap and fit around your entire foot, and the Guide 14 has been streamlined to achieve more comfort with less bulk

Lastly, we have the Saucony Guide running shoes to close our list of the best shoes for overpronation. They are a great option for runners looking for extra support and comfort from stable running shoes. With an EVERUN Topsole, you'll get all the cushioning you need to stay cozy while running for miles.

You don't have to worry about these shoes lowering your performance because of their heavy build since it's made to deliver lightweight stability. This means that it can promote a neutral gait to stop your foot from rolling inwards without adding too much weight.

At the same time, the engineered mesh upper will deliver a dynamic fit while ensuring your foot stays breathable. This is because the materials can allow heat and moisture to escape to prevent the build-up of sweat inside the shoes, which can cause discomfort.

You can also say goodbye to unexpected slips thanks to the Tri-Flex sole, which enhances traction and flexibility by providing a wider surface area for force dispersion. As a result, you'll feel more stable as your run around in these shoes with a lowered injury risk. So, even if you have to run on wet terrain, these are the shoes you want.

  • Pros
  • Cozy plush feel
  • Prevents inward foot rolls
  • Stylish appearance
  • Supportive build
  • Cons
  • Thin elastic laces

Factors to Consider When Buying the Best Running Shoes for Overpronation

1. Types of Running Shoes

Running shoes can take one of three forms; cushioned, stable, or motion control.

i. Cushioned/Neutral Shoes

These running shoes are best suited for runners with high arches. People with this foot type are also called supinators and have rigid feet. As a result, they need a soft cushioning material like the EVA midsole to keep the foot in proper form.

ii. Stability Shoes

These shoes stabilize the feet of runners whose feet tend to pronate while running. The arch of a pronator collapses under the weight during motion which is why they need to support the arch in place. A downside of stable running shoes is that they are heavier than neutral shoes, but this is necessary since they need more components to improve stability.

iii. Motion Control Shoes

Motion control running shoes are the ones specifically meant for overpronation. They can deliver the required level of support to runners with flat feet using stabilizers placed in specific areas like the heel counter to offer as much control as possible.

2. Arch Support

When dealing with overpronation, you need a shoe that can provide adequate arch support. This is because runners with fallen arches or flat feet need a supportive platform to keep the arch in a neutral position to prevent discomfort during long runs.

Without extra support in the arch area, the distribution of body weight will lead to excessive pressure in some areas of the foot. This can lead to painful symptoms or other conditions like plantar fasciitis, which can compromise your performance.

3. Lightweight Outsoles

Much of the support that stability shoes provide comes from the outsoles. While heavy soles can add to the level of stability you feel, they will mostly place your feet under more stress, increasing your discomfort. That is why you should go for a running shoe with a lightweight outsole.

This means that you should scrutinize the materials used to construct the soles. For example, rubber is a great material for outsoles since it is lightweight and durable. Other materials could provide the support you need, but you'll pay the price in foot pain, which will only make it harder to maintain your pace while running.

4. Shock Absorption

If your feet overpronate, the inward rolling will distribute your weight unevenly, which can place certain areas under more strain than others. As you run on hard surfaces like the road, you'll be subjecting your feet to constant shock, which can make your symptoms worse.

As such, the best running shoes for overpronation should offer a comfortable level of shock absorption. This will reduce the level of impact you expose your feet to, reducing the amount of pain you feel. However, without adequate cushioning, the direct shock to your feet can only cause your pain to worsen.

5. Breathability

Another crucial feature of stable running shoes is ventilation. You'll want shoes that allow heat to escape to maintain a cool environment inside the shoe. A shoe with an engineered mesh upper, like the ones in this post, can deliver the breathability you need.

The mesh material allows heat and air to move in and out of the shoe, which helps keep a healthy environment that doesn't promote the development of odors. At the same time, you can run for miles without getting sweaty feet since the exchange of air keeps your feet dry.

6. Stability

Another thing your shoe should offer is stability. People with flat feet don't have a neutral gait which means that their stability is not consistent. As such, you want a shoe that helps you feel as stable and balanced as possible to ensure you can keep running for as long as it takes.

Something you can look for to ensure the footwear has enough stability is wide outsoles. A wide outsole provides a broader base of support for your weight which helps you feel more balanced. Of course, this means that you want a wide outsole that has enough traction to ensure your steps grip the road well.

7. Durability

Since running is an intense activity, running shoes don't last very long. The outward condition of the shoe could be okay, but inside, the cushioning and support could be compromised. Nevertheless, you want a shoe that will last as long as possible, even as you use them in harsh environments.

As a result, you should keep an eye out for materials that can withstand extreme conditions without quickly breaking down. This means that each part of the shoe should be well-reinforced to guarantee a decent performance even after months or years of use.

8. Fit

The last factor to keep in mind is the fit the stability running shoe provides. Sometimes, it can be tricky to find a consistent fit across different brands since manufacturers use varying sizing standards. Unfortunately, you might find that your regular shoe size is slightly smaller or larger depending on the brand you select.

Nevertheless, if you look through the reviews of a particular shoe, you'll get an idea of whether you need to size up or size down for the ideal fit. At the same time, you might find a good fit for your feet, lengthwise, but the shoes could still be too narrow or wide. So, you need to take the time to find out where your optimal size ranges are before you choose a pair of stability shoes.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What are the best running shoes for Overpronation?

The New Balance Fresh Foam 860 V11 is the best stability running shoe on the market.

2. Do Overpronators need stability shoes?

The feet of overpronators are characterized by collapsed arches that need to be stabilized for proper movement. Stability shoes can deliver this support which makes them a great control method.

3. Which Asics are best for Over

The ASICS GT-2000 Women's Running Shoes are the best ASICS option for overpronators.

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jacky chou

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