What Are the Best Running Shoes for Kids with Flat Feet? – Shoes with Extra Arch and Heel Support!
If your child has flat feet and struggles to find comfortable running shoes, you’re not alone. Many families I help at the shoe store ask the same question: What are the best running shoes for kids with flat feet? Whether your child is just starting to run or already training regularly, this guide covers the most supportive running shoes with extra cushioning and heel support. As a passionate shoe fitter with over a decade of experience, I’m here to help you find the ideal fit to support your child’s active lifestyle.
The Complications of Having Flat Feet
When children have flat feet, their feet often roll inward—a condition known as overpronation—which can throw off the alignment of their knees and hips. This misalignment affects how efficiently their muscles function, making everyday movements more tiring and putting extra strain on their joints. Over time, flat feet can also impact your child’s overall posture and comfort.
Before and After: The Impact of Supportive Running Shoes
Seeing is believing. The difference between a child standing barefoot versus wearing supportive running shoes is significant. Supportive shoes can dramatically improve posture, comfort, and overall foot health.
Let’s clear up a common misconception: Just because brands like Nike, Adidas, and Under Armour are popular doesn’t mean they’re the best choice for your child’s feet. In fact, if your child has any foot conditions, these brands are often not supportive enough. Many of their styles are too flimsy, lacking the structure and stability needed to promote healthy foot development.
The running shoes I recommend are supportive but they are lightweight and flexible at the same time, which is going to help prevent your child’s feet from easily getting tired. Disclosure: Some links may be affiliate links, earning us a small commission at no extra cost to you.
Best Running Shoes for Kids with Flat Feet – My Top Picks in 2025
After years of fitting shoes for children, I’ve compiled a list of the best running shoes for kids with flat feet. These recommendations are based on the latest models available in 2025 and have been selected for their support, comfort, and durability.
1. Shoe Style GT-1000 by Asics
These Asics running shoes for flat feet offer a snug, secure fit with lightweight cushioning and excellent support—perfect for active children with narrow to medium-width feet.
Key Features
- Order the shoe GT-1000 by Asics on Zappos or Amazon
- Fits narrow or medium feet
- Available for little and big kids
- GEL technology: Improves impact absorption and creates a softer feeling at footstrike
- I suggest that you get this shoe a whole size larger than your child’s current foot size
2. Shoe Style Fresh Foam 625 by New Balance
These New Balance running shoes for flat feet are perfect for kids who need a reliable all-around shoe, capable of supporting diverse sports engagements.
Key Features
- Order the shoe Fresh Foam 625 by New Balance on Amazon or the New Balance website
- Fits medium, wide, or extra wide feet
- Fresh Foam midsole cushioning provides an ultra-cushioned, lightweight ride
- Padded collar and tongue
- I suggest that you get this shoe a half size larger than your child’s current foot size
3. Shoe Style Gel-Noosa by Asics
These Asics running shoes for kids with flat feet are a popular choice for their vibrant colors and appealing design.
Key Features
- Order the shoe Gel-Noosa by Asics on Amazon or Zappos
- Fits narrow or medium feet
- Available for little and big kids
- Stitched toe and solid rubber outsole to improve durability
- I suggest that you get this shoe a whole size larger than your child’s current foot size
4. Shoe Style Assert 10 by Under Armour
These red Under Armour shoes for kids with flat feet are lightweight, supportive, and have a cushioned sole that provides all-day comfort and stability.
Key Features
- Order the shoe Assert 10 by Under Armour on Amazon or Zappos
- Fits narrow or medium feet
- Available for little and big kids
- One-piece EVA midsole that transforms cushioned landings into explosive takeoffs
- I suggest that you get this shoe a whole size larger than your child’s current foot size
5. Shoe Style Mach by Hoka
These Hoka shoes for flat feet provide a plush midsole with superior shock absorption, while the lightweight design ensures ease of movement.
Key Features
- Order the shoe Mach by Hoka on Amazon or Zappos
- Fits medium or wide feet
- Available for big kids
- Cushioned midsole for shock absorption
- Durable outsole with excellent traction
- Ideal for children who need extra support from their shoes
- I suggest that you get this shoe a half size larger than your child’s current foot size
6. Shoe Style 1906 by New Balance
These are the best New Balance running shoes for flat feet in terms of support and they offer a blend of style and functionality.
Key Features
- Order the shoe 1906 by New Balance on the New Balance website
- Fits medium or wide feet
- ABZORB midsole absorbs impact through a combination of cushioning and compression
- Padded collar and tongue
- I suggest that you get this shoe a half size larger than your child’s current foot size
7. Shoe Style Kinvara by Saucony
These Saucony running shoes for flat feet are lightweight and offer excellent cushioning and flexibility. It’s perfect for kids who enjoy running and other high-impact activities.
Key Features
- Order the shoe Kinvara by Saucony on Amazon
- Fits medium or wide feet
- Foam padding placed around the ankle collar and under the tongue
- Comfort sockliner molds to your foot with padding in the heel for ultimate cushioning at heel-strike
- Engineered mesh for structure, stretch and enhanced breathability
- I suggest that you get this shoe a half size larger than your child’s current foot size
8. Shoe Style Contend by Asics
These Asics running shoes are known for their durability and support. Designed for active kids, these shoes offer a snug fit with a narrow heel counter.
Key Features
- Order the shoe Contend by Asics on Amazon
- Fits narrow or medium feet
- The toe reinforcement, toe rubber stitching, and solid rubber outsole improve durability
- I suggest that you get this shoe a whole size larger than your child’s current foot size
9. Shoe style Fresh Foam X 1080v13 by New Balance
These New Balance wide running shoes for flat feet offer plush cushioning, a supportive heel, and a smooth ride to keep growing feet comfortable and protected all day.
Key Features
- Order the shoe Fresh Foam X 1080v13 by New Balance on Amazon or the New Balance website
- Fits children with medium or wide feet
- Lace-up closure
- Suede and mesh upper
- I suggest that you get this shoe a half size larger than your child’s current foot size
10. Shoe Style Gel-Excite by Asics
These kids’ Asics running shoes feature a narrow design, making them suitable for children with slim feet.
Key Features
- Order the shoe Gel-Excite by Asics on Amazon
- Fits narrow or medium feet
- GEL technology: Improves impact absorption and creates a softer feeling at footstrike
- I suggest that you get this shoe a whole size larger than your child’s current foot size
Our ultimate goal is to find shoes for your child to run comfortably. If the shoes don’t feel comfortable from the moment your child tries them on, then it’s highly likely that they won’t feel comfortable when your child is running.
How to Retrieve Your Child’s Exact Foot Length and Shape
I created a virtual shoe fitting service that will help you retrieve your child’s shoe size from home. This easy-to-follow method allows parents to accurately determine their child’s correct foot length and width (narrow, medium, wide, extra wide), as well as instep height.
Key Features of Running Shoes for Kids with Flat Feet
Feature One: Substantial Outsoles. A stable base ensures that the foot remains in a neutral position, reducing the risk of injury. Shoes with a wide, supportive base and good traction will help your child stay balanced during physical activities.
Feature Two: Firm Heel Counters. A firm heel counter provides stability to the rear of the foot, helping to control motion and prevent excessive pronation. This feature is crucial for children with flat feet, as it helps maintain proper alignment and reduces strain on the foot and leg muscles. By keeping the heel in place, a firm heel counter minimizes unnecessary movement that can lead to fatigue and pain.
Feature Three: Breathable and Lightweight Materials. Children are active and need shoes that keep their feet comfortable and dry. Breathable materials help prevent overheating, while lightweight designs reduce fatigue.
Does Your Child Need a Different Pair of Shoes for Walking?
The answer is no. While running shoes are designed to handle higher impact forces, they can also be suitable for walking, especially if they offer the necessary support for flat feet. Running shoes are generally more cushioned and supportive, making them versatile for various activities. However, if your child participates in specific sports or activities, it may be beneficial to have shoes tailored to those needs.
Reach Out for Specific Recommendations
Every child’s feet are unique, and finding the right shoes can make a world of difference. For specific running shoe recommendations tailored to your child’s foot shape and degree of flat feet, feel free to reach out. I’m here to assist you in choosing the best footwear to support your child’s growth and comfort. Whether your child requires additional arch support, cushioning, or stability, personalized advice can guide you toward the most suitable options.
The implications of flat feet extend beyond immediate discomfort. Without proper support, flat feet can lead to long-term issues such as joint misalignment and chronic pain. Supporting the foot arch with appropriate footwear helps distribute weight evenly, reducing strain on the muscles and joints. Addressing flat feet early can improve a child’s quality of life by enhancing their ability to participate in various physical activities without pain.
thank you so much, we finally got what our son needed
I am happy to hear that!
Great article, Thank you so much for explaining what to look for!
Hello Lin,
I am happy to hear that you find the article informative!