The 21 Best Hiking Shoes For Flat Feet

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If you have flat feet, you might find that even just shopping for normal, everyday shoes to wear around the house or to the office is a pain (both literally and figuratively). So when you’re trying to find the perfect pair of hiking shoes, the frustration only mounts. However, that doesn’t mean you should give up the hunt and settle for your fav pair of tennis shoes for your next hike.

Having the right hiking shoes is so important to your next excursion, both for your comfort and keeping you safe. The best hiking shoes will offer support, traction, breathability or warmth and protection from the elements — and, yes, it is possible to find a pair of boots that offers all this and more for flat feet.

We’ve pulled together some of the 21 best hiking shoes for flat feet so that you can have a fun and safe hiking trip— no matter where in the world you’re hiking, no matter your level of activity (whether you’re hiking easy switchbacks or trail running down a mountain) and no matter your budget. Here are the 18 best hiking shoes for flat feet.

Editor Picks:

Best Flat Feet Hiking Shoes and Boots for Men

Here are the best hiking boots for men available this season. 

1. KEEN Men’s Targhee II Mid Waterproof Hiking Boot

On the more affordable side of hiking boots, KEEN Men’s Targhee Boots are only a little over $100 and provide a solid level of arch support for extra comfort when hiking. 

Extra heel support keeps your foot in place no matter the rough situations you find yourself in, and the ankle padding provides additional comfort. The arch and heel support specifically, though, are what make this hiking boot ideal for men with flat feet. Extra features include a mix of water-resistant and breathable mesh upper materials and 18 different color options. 

2. Salomon Men’s Quest 4 GTX Hiking Boots

These waterproof hiking boots from Salomon channel the power of Gore-Tex for comfort even in the worst mountain rainstorms. 

The deep lugs in the Contragrip TD (aka, the bumpy bits on the bottom of the shoe that give you extra traction) provide enhanced stability. And the foamy cushioning for your arch helps absorb shock while contouring to the shape of your foot. 

3. Merrell Moab 2 Vent Hiking Shoes

If you’re not a fan of hiking boots with high ankle support, you may like these Merrell favorites. Definitely a hiking shoe rather than a boot (more on the differences in a minute), the Moab 2 Vent Hiking Shoes offer all the ruggedness of a hiking boot, just in shoe form. They look more like your average pair of tennis shoes than a piece of hiking gear. Still, they offer lots of stability, breathability and shock absorption. 

The only downsides? This shoe isn’t waterproof, even if it does dry quickly, so expect some soggy socks if you’re hiking in particularly wet conditions. 

Also, because this is a hiking shoe rather than a boot, it doesn’t have that ankle protection that some hikers with flat feet prefer due to the extra stability a high-ankle boot provides. 

4. Chaco ZVolv 2

If you don’t hike on anything particularly treacherous and you can’t stand putting on a pair of socks during the summer, you may want to consider the Chaco ZVolv2 for your next pair of hiking shoes. 

Chacos are known for being comfy, but they’re also a pretty good option for light, summertime day hikes, too, especially if you’re going to be near the water. They are also a good fit for other outdoor activities, such as kayaking or paddleboarding. 

These Chacos offer a grid sole for more traction and webbing heel risers for excellent support along your heel and Achilles tendon. 

A hiking sandal that’ll keep you comfortable and safe during the hottest hiking days of the year, it’s easy to see why these are a favorite for hikers with flat feet.

Related: The 15 Most Comfortable Hiking Sandals [For Men and Women]

5. Timberland Men’s White Ledge Mid Waterproof Ankle Boots

This best-selling hiking boot is 100% waterproof and entirely rugged. Whereas Chacos are ideal for your summertime leisurely hiking, these Timberland White Ledge Boots deliver when it comes to wintertime, rough hiking. 

You’ll enjoy a great grip, lots of ankle support and highly supported arches for less foot, knee and back pain. Plus, they come in several different colors, and they’re built to last, with high-quality materials, rust-proof hardware, waterproof lacing and sealed seams. 

6. Vasque Men’s Talus Trek Low Ultradry Hiking Shoes 

Another hiking shoe to consider is this versatile model from Vasque. It’s not always easy to find hiking shoes that are supportive but light and breathable, but this design delivers on all fronts. 

One of the special features of these all-terrain Talus Trek shoes is a footbed with thermoplastic urethane (TU) shanks that keep your feet comfortable while also stabilizing your heel and arch – very important if you have flat feet. They also feature multidirectional lugs on the sole for excellent grip on the trail.  

But the most important difference between these hiking shoes and the Merrell Moab 2 Vent Hiking Shoes is that they’re waterproof. When the going gets mushy, you can depend on their UltraDry membrane. 

But again, as they are shoes as opposed to boots, you won’t get the ankle support that some people with flat feet are looking for. 

7. Dunham Cloud Mid-Cut Hiking Boots

These Dunham Cloud mid-cut hiking boots have a Memory Foam Footbed with a specially designed stability cradle that will keep your feet comfortable while giving them the extra support that they need. 

Another feature that makes them great for flat feet is built-in rollerballs that help to counteract overpronation that a lot of flat-footed hikers suffer from. 

The leather upper sole is waterproof, and the multidirectional grip design on the sole gives you great traction making them a solid choice for rough hikes and rainy weather. 

And if you have an unusual foot size, not to worry. These boots are available in a variety of extended sizes and widths. With all of those features and the padded collar and shoe tongue, you may indeed feel like you’re walking in the clouds. 

8. Lowa Men’s Renegade GTX Mid Hiking Boot 

Though not as affordable as some models on this list, these hiking boots from Lowa have some high-tech features that may make them worth the investment. 

First of all, they have a reinforced insole that reduces impact and a stacked heel that will make them comfortable for hikers with flat feet. And while definitely sturdy, they also feel lightweight. Another nice plus is the Derby-cut style, which helps to reduce chafing. 

But perhaps the most interesting feature of these boots is that they have a climate-controlled footbed that wicks away moisture. So even on the hottest of days, you won’t have to worry about sweaty feet! 

Though a bit pricey, these boots definitely deliver on comfort and versatility. 

9.  Oboz Bridger Bdry

This boot from Oboz will give you the support and durability that you need for serious hiking. 

As far as the insole is concerned, you’ll find it to be a little studier and rigid than some models, which gives the extra support you need in your arch and heel. To help cushion you from impact, it also has an EVA pad under the heel and ball of the foot. 

The durable nubuck upper sole has a BDry membrane underneath the leather that makes this boot waterproof yet breathable. 

You’ll also find that the 4mm lugs on these boots make them nice and grippy. In fact, the tread actually comes up and around the side of the boots, which gives you extra traction on crooked trails and switchbacks.

With durability and a lot of great features, we think you’ll find that these boots are great for flat feet as well as being truly trail-worthy.

10. Skechers Men’s Relment- Pelmo Boots

The Skechers Men’s Relment-Pelmo Boots feature a waterproof faux-suede upper, mesh details, and Skechers Air-Cooled Memory Foam® insoles for uber comfort.

Perfect for trail hiking, these boots have a high traction rubber lug outsole for a better grip, a roomy toe box for added comfort, and lace-up details. They’re an all-around great hiking boot that won’t bust your budget.

11. NORTIV 8 Men’s Waterproof Hiking Shoes

The NORTIV 8 Men’s Waterproof Hiking Shoes feature a low profile in suede leather and mesh with pop color accents. These hiking shoes are waterproof and breathable with a mesh lining, a waterproof membrane that lets vapor out, and a slip-resistant rubber outsole that makes them ideal for wearing in muddy areas and on rocky surfaces.

These NORTIV 8 shoes are also built with a shock-absorbing midsole and an anti-collision rubber toe cap.

Best Flat Feet Hiking Shoes and Boots for Women

For the adventure-loving gal, here are the best hiking shoes for women. 

12. Merrell Moab II Waterproof Hiking Boot

These Merrell waterproof boots are a favorite. They offer a huge amount of stability in the heel, with airy cushioning that can help your foot and legs better absorb shock. 

Tons of lugs along the bottom of the rubber sole provide extra traction on rugged terrain. But beyond all of the features that make this boot ideal for women with flat feet, it also offers a lot more.

The design keeps water and even particles — twigs, leaves, pebbles and the like — out of the shoe; the breathable lining protects against odors. The sole even features an antimicrobial solution. You get it all for an agreeable price, too.

13. KEEN Women’s Voyageur Hiking Shoe 

For a hiking shoe rather than a hiking boot, look to KEEN Voyageur Hiking Shoe. The leather and mesh shoe is breathable and comfortable, with lots of stability for rough terrain. Even though the shoe doesn’t feature that high ankle that you normally see with a pair of hiking boots, it still provides lots of ankle support for fewer risks of accidents while out on the trail. 

The footbed is removable, too, in case you want to personalize this pair of hiking shoes to better fit your needs, with a specialty sole insert.

14. Merrell Women’s Siren Hiking Shoe

Another hiking shoe that looks even more like a traditional running shoe than a hiking boot, the Merrell Siren is one of the more stylish on our list but still ticks all of the boxes for functionality. 

The contoured footbed is ideal for those with flat feet and comes complete with a foot frame that helps to better contour the shoe to your foot and stride patterns. The overall result is less stress and shock on your feet, for no more painful toes or blisters after a long day of hiking. 

15. Columbia Women’s Newton Ridge Plus Waterproof 

But if you really would prefer something rugged and durable over something that puts a heavy emphasis on style, you might want to consider this suede leather waterproof hiking boot from Columbia. This shoe is easy to break in, durable and ideal for the roughest of terrains, which is why Brianna Leonhard, founder of Third Row Adventures, picks this boot for her family hikes. If you’re an average hiker who gets out on the trails a few times per month, you’ll find that these boots easily last a season or even two. 

The shoe is filled with cushioning that helps to keep your feet in place, but it’s also flexible enough to adjust to your foot needs.

16. Lowa Women’s Renegade GTX Mid Hiking Boots

While most of the hiking boots on this list are relatively budget-friendly, at around the $100 to $150 mark, the Lowa Renegade GTX is a little more pricey, at over $200 — but you get what you pay for, especially when it comes to outdoor gear. 

The boot features a sturdy heel, lots of arch support and extra ankle support. The molded Vibram soles gently adjust your foot to the proper position for ultimate comfort over a long hike. 

The overall result is a shoe that keeps your feet in place and safe while also ensuring all-day comfort. And even though the boots are 100% leather and totally waterproof, they’re also very breathable, making them suitable for hiking all year round.

17. Keen Targhee II Mid

If you prefer a hiking boot over a shoe, Keen also makes a great mid-cut boot for women. The specially designed footbed cradles the feet and provides great arch support. But a number of other features make them an all-around great boot for the trail.

While this waterproof boot won’t let water in, it also allows your feet to breathe at the same time. The rugged sole has 4mm lugs that grip the terrain and give you excellent traction on both rocky and muddy surfaces. 

Wrap that all up in a lightweight package, and you have a boot that will keep you dry and comfortable on all of your outdoor adventures. 

18. Manfen Women’s Hiking Boots

If you’re looking for a more economical pair of boots to support your feet, this pair from Manfen runs between $45 to $75 and is especially good for cold weather hikes thanks to the Thinsulate Insulation.

Flat-footed hikers will appreciate the excellent cushioning and heel protection. And they also have a toe cap and a molded TPU ankle support for added protection. 

Lightweight and waterproof, they also have a grippy traction system that makes them suitable for snowy conditions. Just be aware that these boots do seem to run a little small, so you may want to consider sizing up.

Overall, you get a lot of boot for your buck.

19. Salomon Women’s X Ultra 3 MID GTX W

These boots from Salomon keep you extra dry because of a Gore-Tex membrane that blocks out water. Something to consider if you’ll be wading through streams or plunking through puddles on your hike.

But there are several features that make them especially good for flat feet. First of all, the OrthoLite insole has excellent cushioning and conforms to the natural contours of your feet. They also have an EVA midsole that helps to absorb shock and reduce impact when the going gets rough.

Another unique feature is the SensiFit design that cradles your foot from the midsole up to the lacing system adding to the overall comfort. 

But perhaps one of the most interesting features is what they call Descent Control Technology that helps to stabilize you when heading downhill, even in slippery conditions.

In other words, there are a lot of great qualities packed into this mid-cut, lightweight hiking boot. 

20. Teva Women’s W Arrowhead 2 Mid Waterproof Hiking Boot

Not willing to sacrifice comfort for style? Then you may want to check out these cute sneaker boots from Teva. But don’t let the good looks fool you. They also have plenty of great features that you’ll appreciate on the trail. 

These boots provide great arch support (something Teva is known for) and a heel construction that helps to absorb shock and keep you extra comfortable. They’re also extremely lightweight, making them easy to wear all day.

They also have a waterproof upper and will help to keep your feet warm in cold weather. However, something to be aware of is that these boots are known to run a little narrow. And while they do have a decent traction system, they’re not quite as grippy as other boots on this list.

But if you’re looking for a lightweight, comfortable boot, these sneaker boots are a great choice for casual day hiking. 

21. XeroShoes XCursion Fusion

The jury is still out, but some say that walking barefoot can actually help prevent and manage flat feet. Enter the XeroShoes XCursion Fusion hiking shoe with a zero drop heel that lets you better feel the ground beneath your feet.

Rugged, comfortable, and fully waterproof, the XCursion Fusion Hiking Shoe has a foot-shaped toe box that lets your toes spread out, a flexible sole that lets your feet bend and move, and tension straps that provide a snug fit.

More research is needed to determine if zero-drop shoes can be beneficial to people with flat feet, so you might want to consult with your podiatrist for their professional opinion.

Related: 15 Of The Most Beautiful Places To Go Camping [Travel Guide]

Things to Consider When Shopping for Hiking Shoes or Hiking Boots

There are a few things to consider when you’re shopping for the best hiking shoes for flat feet.

Do you want hiking shoes or hiking boots?

You know how all thumbs are fingers, but not all fingers are thumbs? Think of hiking boots and hiking shoes the same way. All hiking boots are hiking shoes, but not all hiking shoes are hiking boots.

Hiking, especially in rough terrain, can wreak havoc on your feet and ankles, so many hikers prefer the ankle support they get from a boot that a low top hiking shoe just can’t provide. 

Technically, hiking shoes don’t provide ankle stability – they’re more like low top tennis shoes. They offer a good grip, stability, and durability, but they don’t hold firm around your ankle (which is key when you’re navigating unsteady, unstable terrain). Hiking shoes are also a bit more versatile – you can pair them with jeans or jogger pants and not look like you’re about to scale a mountain.

Hiking boots are made with more extreme hiking in mind. Do you need them to hike a flat trail with no incline or scrambles? No. But if you plan to scale mountains, traverse natural trails with roots and rocks, or hike in bad weather, boots are the better option.

Special considerations for hikers with flat feet

Whether you prefer to hike in shoes or boots, make sure that whatever option you choose is capable of providing you the extra support you need as a hiker with flat feet. As a hiker with flat feet that don’t have much of an arch (or any arch at all), you may not have the balance and stability that other hikers have naturally. For safety and comfort, choose a shoe or boot that makes up for that overpronation or underpronation. 

Charlotte Bowens with Conscious Gear adds to the topic. “As an avid hiker with flat feet, I discovered early that the shoe I wore impacted my ability to do long-distance hiking, and in some instances, wearing shoes that weren’t right for my feet caused ankle, knee, back and other bodily pain. I didn’t necessarily need a special shoe. Rather, I discovered that a wider width, along with a certain kind of shoe insert, can make the shoe more supportive when hiking and reduced or eliminated any pain.”

Look for a high-quality hiking shoe that’s flexible, with cushion in the heel and lots of support and stability in the insole, outsole, and midsole. Look for a shoe with lots of traction. Choose a hiking shoe that’s the perfect fit for your foot, both in length and width.

Keep in mind that your feet swell when they get hot, so you might also want to consider a shoe made for wide feet. 

Some flat feet hikers swear by boots outfitted with orthotics, but others prefer less cushioning. Whichever you find more comfortable, it’s best to try on a range of boots and shoes to see what feels good for your feet. There are endless options to choose from, so there’s no need to settle on the first pair you find. 

What to Look For in Hiking Shoes

Beyond the special considerations for those with flat feet, there are a few other things you’ll want to look for in hiking boots or hiking shoes. 

First and foremost, look for boots or shoes that are made for your type of activity.

• Do you trail run?
• What weather conditions do you usually hike in?
• Do you prefer technically challenging trails?

Whatever your preferences and habits, look for a shoe that’s made for that type of activity.

You’ll also want to choose shoes that provide breathability in the summer and insulation in the winter. Waterproof fabrics are another important technical factor, as you can’t rely solely on a rubber outsole to keep you dry.

Even if you don’t think you’ll encounter that much water while you’re out on the trail, you don’t want to be caught at a stream crossing and suddenly realize

Finding the Best Hiking Boots and Shoes for Flat Feet Doesn’t Have to Be Hard

There’s a secret to finding great hiking shoes for your flat feet:

Trying on a variety of different pairs to see what fits and feels best.

Flat-footed people do have a bit more of a challenge when it comes to finding comfortable shoes, but you can get a better sense of what feels good and what doesn’t by trying on a few different pairs.

And if you find a pair you love that doesn’t feel as good as you’d like, talk to your podiatrist. They’ll be able to suggest different types of inserts you can slip into your shoes to provide you with the comfort you need and deserve. 

You might also be interested in: 60 Summer Activities For Kids [The Whole Family Can Enjoy]

Best Hiking Shoes for Flat-Footed Men: 

1. KEEN Men’s Targhee II Mid Waterproof Hiking Boot
2. Salomon Men’s Quest GTX Hiking Boots
3. Merrell Moab 2 Vent Hiking Shoes
4. Chaco ZVolv 2
5. Timberland Men’s White Ledge Mid Waterproof Ankle Boots
6. Vasque Men’s Talus Trek Low Ultradry Hiking Shoes
7. Dunham Cloud Mid-Cut Hiking Boots
8. Lowa Men’s Renegade GTX Mid Hiking Boot 
9. Oboz Bridger Bdry
10. Skechers Men’s Relment-Pelmo Boots
11. NORTIV 8 Men’s Waterproof Hiking Shoes

Best Hiking Shoes for Flat-Footed Women: 

1. Merrell Moab II Waterproof Hiking Boot
2. KEEN Women’s Voyageur Hiking Shoe 
3. Merrell Women’s Siren Hiking Shoe
4. Columbia Women’s Newton Ridge Plus Waterproof 
5. Lowa Women’s Renegade GTX Mid Hiking Boots
6. Keen Targhee II Mid
7. Manfen Women’s Hiking Boots
8. Salomon Women’s X Ultra 3 MID GTX W
9. Teva Women’s W Arrowhead 2 Mid Waterproof Hiking Boot
10. XeroShoes XCursion Fusion