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Flat feet and overpronation.

Runners who have these feet conditions need a running shoe that has a lot of arch support.

And if you are running on trails, then you need to have a lot of stability from your out-sole as well.

In both of these department ASICS Gel-Kayano 27 Running Shoe is the best.

However, if you want more option we have compared 14 best trail running shoes for flat feet and overpronation. 

And if you still need more just scroll down more. We have reviewed all these 14 running shoes completely to help you find your best match.

So, check out and let us know, how you find our selection.

Related: 

Best Running Shoes for Flat Feet and Shin Splints Reviewed

Our Top Picks

For Women:

Salomon XR Mission Running Shoe

“Maximal cushioning and exceptional support. Vibrant colors.”

For Men:

ASICS Gel-Kayano 27 Running Shoe

“Improved gait efficiency and support.”

Best Trail Running Shoes for Flat Feet and Overpronation in [current_year](Top 6 Compared)

#3

Editor Rating:
(4.5)
Vibram Men's V Trail Runner

#4

Editor Rating:
(4.5)
Editor Rating:
(4.8)

This trail running shoe from ASICS will help runners who have mild to severe overpronation.

Most of the time, overpronation is a result of flat or fallen arches.

This running shoe will take care of that as well by providing you with proper arch support.

Gel-Kayano comes with Impact Guidance System or I.G.S Technology and it uses ASICS design philosophy.

The Dynamic DuoMax Support technology is designed to provide ultimate support and stability.

Using this philosophy, this running shoe employs linked componentry to enhance your feet’s natural gait efficiency.

Also, this running shoe has a very energetic foam and uses FLYTEFOAM PROPEL Technology.

This gives the mid-sole supreme bounce and you get a very responsive ride.

FLYTEFOAM LYTE TECHNOLOGY is also used in the midsole which provides continuous cushioning and makes this shoe lightweight.

Also, the reversed lugs present in the AHAR out-sole, keeps you firmly planted on the muddy and rocky trails.

+ POSITIVES
  •   Light weight and perfect for mild to severe overpronators
  •   Great for long distance running even on trails
  •   Suitable for all surface running
  •   Can help you with shin pains also
  •   Great fit and sharp looking
 NEGATIVES
  •   Some runners did not like the rounded toe-box.
  •   Some felt, the quality is not up to the mark.
Editor Rating:
(4.7)
Salomon Women's XR Mission Running Shoe

Salomon XR Mission is a trail running shoe which is lightweight and highly cushioned.

It has proper arch support for flat footed runners and will provide you with good stability for overpronation.

It combines a lot of technologies like:

  • Sensifit and Sensiflex for Comfortable Fit
  • Contagrip Outsole for Traction
  • Quicklace System for Optimal Fit

The upper has a breathable mesh which will keep you comfortable and cool during you entire run.

Also, the lugs on the out-sole are multi-surface. This provides you with good grip from all directions.

To improve the level of comfort, the foot-bed has a foam layer.

This helps you to reduce friction and keeps your feet blister free.

They can be used as a multipurpose shoe, however, the sole may erode away faster on the harsh, solid concrete.

+ POSITIVES
  •   Resilient cushioning with shock absorption.
  •   Head turner
  •   Lightweight.
  •   Good ankle support
 NEGATIVES
  •   Seems a bit smaller.
  •   Quicklace system is not favored by some runners. They said, it is difficult to put on.
Editor Rating:
(4.8)
Vibram Men's V Trail Runner

If you want to have a barefoot running experience, then this is the trail runner to go for. It will help you with your pronation as well as your flat feet.

How?

Running barefoot is the best thing for your feet. It strengthens your muscles and makes your feet strong. 

Using these running shoes, you will get the same barefoot experience minus the hassle of injury.

So, your feet will become strong and your will be able to better cope with your pronation.

The out-sole has Vibram Cocoon 3D technology which is very strong and protects your feet from rock, debris and sharp objects on the trails.

This material now extends from the balls of the feet to the tip of the toes providing you with additional protection.

Also, it comes with multi-directional lugs which will provide you with grip in all directions.

It comes with an anti-microbial poly fabric sock liner and keeps your feet fresh even on the long runs.

+ POSITIVES
  •   Good grip on muddy trails.
  •   Good for plantar fasciitis.
  •   Strengthens your foot.
  •   Improves your sense of balance.
 NEGATIVES
  •   Some felt the back of the foot is very high on Achilles.
  •   Soles seems to be stiffer than the previous version.
Editor Rating:
(4.5)
ASICS Women's Gel-Kahana

This is a low drop shoe and is built for the trails. The out-sole has reversed lugs and provides you with proper traction uphill and downhill.

To reduce the weight of this running shoe Trusstic System Technology has been implemented.

It not only makes the shoe lighter, but also helps to retain its structural integrity.

You also have DuoMax Support System which is a dual density mid-sole which helps to improve the support and durability of this shoe.

This mid-sole has a longer longevity as it is made from SpEVA mid-sole material.

This material also provides extra bounce to the shoe.

The rear foot has Gel cushioning system which absorbs shock and keeps your feet protected in the trails.

This comes with a good arch support and provides stability. This gives you a very enjoyable ride.

 

 

+ POSITIVES
  •   Excellent cushioning and shock absorption
  •   Helps with heel pain and plantar fasciitis
  •   Blister-free experience
  •   Good grip
 NEGATIVES
  •   Runs a bit narrow
  •   Lesser padding at the side of the toes
Editor Rating:
(4.3)
Mizuno Men's Wave Kazan Trail Running Shoe

This is a vegan approved running shoe. This means, no part of this running shoe is made from animal product.

It comes with “Concave Wave” which protects the heels from excessive movement.

The upper pattern is designed based on topography and Japanese rock garden.

The heels has a special carbon rubber called X-10. This material enhances the longevity of this running shoe and and provides traction to the heel strikers.

The fore foot has X-Lug out-sole which is strategically patterned to provide optimal grip and traction.

This also gives your running shoes optimal flexibility when needed.

The mid-foot has X-Grooves. This delivers maximum adaptability on any surface allowing the heel and the forefoot to move independently.

+ POSITIVES
  •   Good for older people also.
  •   Light weight and comfortable.
  •   No break-in period needed.
  •   Good for even wide, flat feet
 NEGATIVES
  •   Seems like less durable than previous models.
  •   Some faced issue with the sole pasting.
Editor Rating:
(4.3)
ASICS GT-2000 7 Trail Men's Running Shoes

GT-2000 7 comes with an improved material called SpEVAFOAM 45 lasting.

This gives you a soft platform feel and an improved comfort.

It also comes with the lightest mid-sole from ASICS made from FLYTEFOAM LYTE Technology.

This mid-sole provides continuous cushioning due to the organic nano fibers.

The fore foot and the rear foot as Gel cushioning which reduces the impact of shock and helps in easier heel to toe foot transitions.

It also is built on GUIDANCE TRUSSTIC SYSTEM which integrates GUIDANCE LINE or enhanced gait efficiency.

This also provides you with mid-foot structural integrity.

It comes with ORTHOLITE SOCKLINER which is very efficient at moisture management.

This keeps you dry and fresh for a longer period of time.

+ POSITIVES
  •   Good for neutral to overpronation.
  •   Aggressive lugs for stability on the trails.
  •   Multiple measures to improve your gait efficiency.
  •   Ortholite sockiliner for keeping you dry and fresh for a  longer time.
 NEGATIVES
  •   Sizing seems a bit off.
Editor Rating:
(4.3)

Altra has made some significant updates to make a great shoe even better.

The upper is improved and the integrated tongue now has static webbing for better cinching ability, a flexible strap for overlay for a more roomier fore-foot and a sandpaper texured toe-cap.

It also has draining mesh at the heels and the forefoot. This improves the breathability of this running shoe.

The TrailClaw and the multi-directional carved lugs provides you with improved traction and reduced weight.

Also, the StoneGuard is completely upgraded to map the skeletal structure of your foot.

This gives you a better performance and dynamic flexibility.

It is a zero-drop shoe which gives you a very stable and natural ride.

Also, energy-return compound sits directly under foot to reduce the impact and add extra bounce to your feet.

Canted lugs positioned strategically beneath the metatarsals to provide traction at toe-off.

+ POSITIVES
  •   Good fit and grip.
  •   Highly functional for walking and running on trails.
  •   Great for flat feet and overpronation.
  •   Improves ventilating for upper
 NEGATIVES
  •   You may feel a bit tighter at the mid-foot
  •   The toe guard seems less durable.
Editor Rating:
(4.3)

Upper of this running shoe is made from thermoplastic polyurethane and synthetic washable mesh.

This makes these running shoes breathable and easy to wash.

If it is caked in mud also, a simple hose pipe and water wash is enough to clean this up completely.

The outsole is made from blown rubber and has multi-direction lugs.

This not only makes these running shoes very durable but will also provide you with superior grip on the muddy tracks.

Due to the multi-direction lugs, you will get good grip and traction from all directions.

It comes with traditional lace-up closure and comes with drainage ports.

This helps to drain water from inside the shoes and helps you get dry faster.

They can take on any kind of races like the Spartans and the Tough Mudder and they will last you for such multiple tough mudders.

+ POSITIVES
  •   Good for any kind of trails.
  •   Very durable.
  •   Easy to clean.
  •   Well ventilated upper and comes with drainage ports.
 NEGATIVES
  •   Some felt the cushioning is a bit less.
  •   Some felt the quality is not up to the mark.
Editor Rating:
(4.3)

The upper of this running shoe is made from 100% water resistant textile.

For complete weather protection you have a full gore-tex bootie.

You will get an improved stability as the 3D chasis stabilizes the foot.

It now has improved fore-foot mobility and is not sacrificed due to the 3D chasis.

As with all Salomon shoes, it comes with the Quicklace system.

You can get a perfect and comfortable fit with a single pull.

The out-sole is made from high abrasion rubber and has contragrip

This provides you with proper grip and traction from all directions.

Due to the nature of the rubber sole, it lasts for a long period of time and doesn’t get eroded very easily.

Overall, you get a very durable, comfortable running shoes for a great trail running experience.

+ POSITIVES
  •   Good for long distance running.
  •   True to fit.
  •   Great for people with feet and back pain.
  •   Full gore-tex for complete weather protection.
 NEGATIVES
  •   The inside lining is less durable.
  •   Dome felt it is a bit narrow.
Editor Rating:
(4.3)

This is one of the best and affordable running shoes around.

It comes with a rear-foot gel band technology. This enhances the shock absorption and allows for smooth heel-to-toe transition.

If you need, you can easily remove the sockliner and replace it with your favorite orthotic.

The out-sole is made from AHAR rubber, acronym for ASICS High Abrasion Rubber. 

This rubber is placed at strategic places and improves the durability of this shoe manifold.

Th out-sole also has trail specific reversed lugs which provides proper uphill and downhill traction on all types of terrains.

It is a low-drop shoe which means the heel-to-toe drop is around 4 mm.

This enhances your running experience and strengthens your foot.

Also, it comes with a breathable upper and keeps you cool and fresh during your entire outdoor session.

+ POSITIVES
  •   Good for people with flat feet, overpronation, or plantar fasciitis.
  •   Need zero breaking in.
  •   Lightweight.
  •   Removable in-soles.
 NEGATIVES
  •   Some felt they are wider at the heels.
  •   For some the inside cushioning is not that good.
Editor Rating:
(4.3)

Altra combines a lot of technologies to build this shoe, so that you get the stable and comfortable running experience when on the trails.

First, you have the FootShape ToeBox. It helps you to spread your toes naturally to relax and keeps your big toe straight for maximum power and stability.

It is built on the Altra’s Zero Drop platform. This means, your heels and the balls of your foot are at the same level from the ground.

This helps you to have a more natural running experience, and also helps to strengthens your feet.

It comes with an innovative hook and loop tab that secures your gaiters to your trail shoe to keep dirt and debris out.

The out-sole is made from durable rubber and gives you a very good grip on any kind of terrain.

It comes with an innovative StoneGuard which is sandwiched between A-Bound and EVA mid-sole.

This StoneGuard offers your extra protection by deflecting rocks into the mid-sole for a smooth and stable ride.

Also, the canted lugs positioned strategically beneath the metatarsals provide traction at toe-off.

+ POSITIVES
  •   Ample space in the toe-box.
  •   Blister free running experience.
  •   Zero-drop for a more natural running experience.
  •   Great running shoes for both tame and technical terrains.
 NEGATIVES
  •   Some felt the durability not that great.
  •   Not at all stylish.
Editor Rating:
(4.3)

This trail running shoe comes with a lightweight and responsive mid-sole from New Balance called REVlite.

This gives you that added bounce under your feet and you get a very energetic ride wearing these shoes.

Also, it comes with NB Response 2.0 Performance inserts.

They are designed for you to perform at your best.

The upper has no-sew materials and will not cause any kind of irritation and blisters.

The AT tread out-sole will keep your feet firmly plated on the ground when your are busy chasing your next target.

At the front of the shoe, you get toe-protect.This will provide additional protection to your toes.

It comes with traditional lace-up closure and also a pull tab.

This makes it easy for you to put on and put off this running shoe.

Also, this is a low-drop shoe, which will give you a near natural running experience.

 

+ POSITIVES
  •   Good for long distance running.
  •   Good fitting.
  •   No sew materials for blister free experience.
  •   NB 2.0 Performance inserts to help you perform at your best.
 NEGATIVES
Editor Rating:
(4.2)

This trail runner from New Balance comes with Revlite mid-sole and Vibram out-sole.

Revlite mid-sole is a lightweight foam material, which gives you a lot of speed and bounce.

Not only responsiveness,this mid-sole gives you a lot of cushioning and support.

Also, the Vibram out-sole is specifically made for trails.

They have multi-directional lugs, which helps you to have a good grip on any kind of terrain.

The wear and tear of these running shoes are also less and you get a very durable shoe guaranteed to last a lot of Spartans.

The upper comes with a FantomFit and provides you with a very comfortable fit.

It helps you to provide a breathable and comfortable in-shoe experience.

The gusseted tongue and the padded collar keeps your feet stable and you get a very comfortable ride.

+ POSITIVES
  •   Good for any kind of terrain.
  •   Vibram out-sole for multi-directional grip.
  •   Good for heavier built and wide feet.
  •   Lightweight and great for long distance running.
 NEGATIVES
  •   You may feel heel slippage.
  •   Wider toe-box than normal.
Editor Rating:
(4.0)

It comes with ASICS lightest mid-sole formulation that provides your with continuous cushioning.

This mid-sole technology is called FYLTEFOAM LYTE TECHNOLOGY.

The mid-sole also has DUOMAX SUPPORT SYSTEM which is a dual density mid-sole system which enhances support and stability of this running shoe.

The out-sole has ASICS proprietary rubber called ASICS GRIP.

This enhances the grip of this running shoe and is very durable.

Also, it has an additional ROCK PROTECTION PLATE which provides protection against stone bruises.

Another great feature is that, you will never have your laces comes undone as it comes with LACE GARAGE TECHNOLOGY.

This is a pocket which enables you to tuck away the laces and they remain unexposed.

+ POSITIVES
  •   Plush cushioning and shock absorption.
  •   Lightweight and responsive.
  •   Great durability.
  •   ROCK PROTECTION PLATE for additional protection.
 NEGATIVES
  •   Out-sole may not be as durable as AHAR

Buyer’s Guide

If you are buying trail running shoe and has flat feet and overpronation, here are some of the things you should keep in mind:

Outsole

The outsole of any trail running shoe should be durable and abrasion-resistant.

You should be able to judge that from the sole material. Here are some of the types of soles that are there:

AHAR – ASICS High Abrasion Rubber

MaxTrac – Trail specific outsole material from Altra

Also, the trail-specific brands like Salomon always use high abrasion rubber on their outsoles.

In fact, some of the minimalist shoes that you get from Marrell also has a very tough rubber material on the outsole.

Also, they should provide you with a firm grip on wet grounds also.

Lugs

Trails are different than roads. it will be muddy and softer than the asphalt or concrete roads.

So, if the soles of your running shoes don’t have aggressive lugs, then you will be more prone to slipping on the ground.

The aggressive lugs will provide you with a firm grip on the ground and will keep you stable.

Also, they should have 4-way or multidirectional stretch.

This way they will expand and contract with your feet making it a truly comfortable experience for you.

Some specialty

Well, this is kind of optional or good to have features.

For example, some shoes like Salomon has contra grip and others have stone defectors.

Stone deflectors actually deflect the stone into the midsole for better protection and stability.

Midsole

Midsoles are the part that will provide you with cushioning.

It should be made from a foam material. If the foam is some kind of EVA foam or Fresh Foam as in New Balance, then you are good to go.

They are lightweight, cushy and provides you with the right kind of support.

Also, they are sturdy enough to not get packed out under your weight.

If such a thing happens, you will have to buy a new shoe.

Otherwise, you will end up injured.

Insoles

Since you are having flat feet, you would need a running shoe which has arch support, especially if you have collapsed arches.

If you have flat feet by birth, you may not need it.

Also, arch support should not be too high.

A high arch will put too much pressure on your flat feet and you will end up having achy feet.

Also, this may give rise to other kinds of feet problem like plantar fasciitis.

The ideal arch support should be from low to medium.

This will keep you comfortable while you run and will prevent injuries from developing.

Overpronation support

Since you are overpronating or your feet are rolling inward while you hit the ground, you are more prone to injuries like ankle pain, shin splints, knee injuries, etc.

To combat that, you need a running shoe which will restrict that.

There are two types of shoes which can help you with this.

Stability Shoes – They will keep your ankles stable and are heavily padded in that area. These shoes are more suitable for people with low to medium pronation.

Motion control – These shoes are meant for people with heavy pronation and as the name suggests, it will control the rolling motion.

Essentially, both types of shoes are doing the same thing. They are controlling your feet’s motion.

Upper

If the upper is well ventilated and water-resistant, it is good.

However, you never know what kind of weather or terrain you have to deal with until you hit the trails.

If you have to deal with water, then your shoes should be quick drying.

Water draining

When out in the trails, you will encounter water – be it rain, or that dirty poodle.

If your shoe doesn’t drain well then you will have to live with that yucky, squishy feeling.

So, when you choose your running shoe for the trail, keep all the above things in mind before you pick one.

FAQs

Q) Do flat feet runners need arch support?

A: Not necessarily. You may run just as fine as any other runner.

However, if you are a runner with collapsed arches (meaning, you had a proper arch, but somehow it as fallen), then your feet muscles may not be as strong.

If that is the case, then you must use arch support. 

Arch support will help your muscles to support you as usual and also will return your arches to their natural shape.

Q) What type of running shoes are good for flat feet?

A: Any kind of running shoe will work just fine.

However, with fallen arches, you should use an arch support shoe.

Also, make sure that the arches are not too high.

Select something which will support low to medium arches.

If you are a natural flat footer, then you may as well use minimalist running shoes like Merrell Trail Glove 4 Runner for two main reasons. 

  • Firstly, they will immensely strengthen your feet and will help you to prevent and fight injuries like plantar fasciitis.
  • Secondly, they are incredibly cheap as compared to a full-fledged running shoe.

Q) Can flat feet be corrected?

A: A complete reversal of the condition may not be possible without surgery.

However, you need not do anything, if you are not experiencing any kind of problem or pain.

If you are dealing with pain, then arch support will be able to help. 

You can avail them over-the-counter or your physician may get one custom made for you.

Q) Do flat feet pronate or supinate?

A: Flat feet generally tend to pronate.

However, in rare cases, they can supinate. This will happen, in case your ankles are stiff.

Q) Why is pronation bad?

A: Pronation can give rise to different injuries due to the rolling of your feet.

Some of the injuries are:

  • Ankle pain
  • Plantar Fasciitis
  • Knee pain
  • Hip pain, etc.

This is the reason, you should wear running shoes or shoes which will control your pronation. 

Conclusion

Trail running with flat feet and overpronation is a challenge.

However, you can do it with a lot more ease, if you have a running shoe with proper arch support.

The above list provides you with just what you need. However, we think ASICS Gel-Kayano 27 Running Shoe outshines all.

Check it out and let us know, what you think  about our selection.

Madhusree Basu

Madhusree Basu

Author, Admin

Blogger and a fitness enthusiast. She loves running and Yoga and everything in between. She started running to manage her weight and to eat to her heart’s content. A true foodie at heart she shares whatever knowledge she has gained throughout the years about weight management and fitness.