Top 10 cross training shoes for flat feet you can trust when buying.
Having flat feet can be challenging. But you still can experience every type of workout – mostly injury-free for a long time – by paying the right attention to your training, your warning signs, and your shoes. Don’t let flat feet preclude you from being a great athlete. Let’s see how to select the right footwear!
Do you know that about 30% of people and more than 25% of the adult population in the world have flat feet, which is also called “fallen” or “low” arches, and medically referred to as “Pes Planus”? However, not everyone realizes that we need some special treatment and, no less important, special shoes both for everyday routine and for cross training classes.
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Why Do You Need Special Training Shoes for Flat Feet?
Having flat feet can be challenging. But let me tell you the good news: don’t let flat feet discourage you from cross training, a bootcamp class junkie, or solo sessions in the gym. As you might know, due to lack of arch cushioning, flat feet are much more prone to injuries and muscular stress. And those who would not have an arch, which provides a ‘springboard’ action when moving, generally apply pressure with leads towards tendon damage on their foot.
Whether you are jogging, jumping, lifting weights, or doing cardio, it is always important to have support and protection for your feet that will get you through your intense workouts. Having the right shoes with adequate arch support and deep heel cups will help you get over those challenging exercises feeling comfy and properly-supported. To feel your best, in this case, all you need is cross training shoes.
10 Best Cross Training Shoes for Flat Feet
After having seen a physical therapist and know that you overpronate and become more aware of the overpronation issue and its significance, you can do something about this condition in order to correct it. All you need to do is to look for a pair of shoes with decent medial support, since it prevents your foot from rolling and allows for pain-free, secure movements no matter if you are perform a variety of athletic activities, ranging from strength training to cardio and back or any other activity you like. After having thoroughly tested and reviewed the latest models of well-known brands, researched their pros and cons in terms of overpronation, here’s an in-depth look at these 10 best cross training shoes for flat feet and why we are recommending them.
1. Nike Free Trainer 5.0 V6 Training Shoe
The new Nike Free Trainer 5.0 V6 training shoe is the heavy duty stability shoe in the lineup. A shoe designed for those requiring a serious motion control and well-cushioned shoe, it performs exceedingly well to meet the demands of intense multi-sport workouts. In addition to comfort and control, it also provides the fitnessers confidence to go hard when they need to.
Giving your feet stability while lifting weight for hours without any sort of discomfort, the Nike Free Trainer 5.0 V6 training shoe is a good one to start the transition from padded shoes to barefoot shoe training. You may choose this shoe for its light weight but love it for its flexibility and support through the introduction of multidirectional flex grooves and the ample ventilation noticeable during long-duration class.
You would never know this shoe possesses max stability by looking at it. But once trying, you will feel really comfortable thanks to plenty of room in the toe box area. With its unique design, its hexagonal pods separating in different directions to match the surface, and its low-profile phylite midsole enough to double as an outsole, the Nike Free Trainer 5.0 V6 training shoe is not surprisingly the users’ top choice. The Nike Free Trainer 5.0 V6 training shoe has managed to capture the interest of many professional individuals in the fitness community thanks to the combination of flywire cable lockdown, and mesh breathability.
Pros
- The perfect amount of decent arch support and a lockdown fit without sacrificing style. Delivers premium stability that sits above the rest.
- Rounded anatomical heel, removable insole for a better fit, water resistance allow shoe to perform fast but not sacrifice comfort.
- Impressive amount of reflective details.
- Long-lasting traction.
Cons
- Not built to stand the test of time.
- Not true to size (order 0,5 – 1 size bigger
2. Adidas Speed 3.0 Cross-Trainer Shoes
For flat-footed trainers, it is not as easy as some you might have thought to make the right choice. But when it comes to Adidas Speed 3.0, you have a choice you can trust. Having numerous features and being durable enough for years of use; this is the kind of a shoe that makes you feel like a champion. What you need is a shoe that makes you comfortable and best Adidas Speed 3.0 Cross-Trainer Shoes, which are ultra-light for speed around the bags, are your choice for this.
Employing the breathable mesh upper with synthetic overlay, the Adidas Men’s Speed 3.0 is a shoe that offers a much more solid support and delivers a smoother, faster, and more stable ride. That means great dynamic support that will not bog you down or let you slip.
The durable midsole gives you an overall airy feeling, but with plenty of rigidity for traction and multiple surfaces. Meanwhile, the outsole delivers ground-gripping traction on turf. One of the best running shoes for overpronators, the Adidas Men’s Speed 3.0 is the comfortable training shoes for your flat foot.
With the slightly padded tongue and collar, pull-on tab for easier on-and-off wear, and breathable fabric lining inside shoe, these shoes came through when it counts no matter what kind of activities you are taking part in – reverse lunges, single leg deadlifts, side lunges, mountain climbers, planks, etc. Good performance, decent cushioning, and ample support, one of the latest Adidas Speed will not disappoint its loyal following. Why not clock long hours at the batting cage or practice field with Adidas?
Pros
- Enough level of good stability
- Lace-up closure for a secure and adjustable fit.
- Pull-on tab for easier on-and-off wear
- Gel-like shock absorbent material that reduces wear and tear on the foot
- Responsive and soft cushioning with triple layered sole for added support
- Lightweight and comfortable
- Removable insole
- Breathable fabric lining inside shoe
Cons
- Limited padding in the ankle supports
3. Adidas Performance Powerlift.3 Cross-Trainer Shoe
We all know that a pair of cross-training shoes is required in cross-training, which encompasses many different workouts. Have no idea on the right gear to choose? Luckily, Adidas is as capable of doing it all as you are.
Initially a company that is well-versed in the athletic space, Adidas takes workouts to new heights with their development of the Adidas Performance Men’s Powerlift.3 cross-trainer shoes.
Featuring a narrow fit that brings great stability, the Adidas Performance Men’s Powerlift.3 cross-trainer shoes – one of Adidas’s most well-known lifting shoes since the 08 AdiStars – provides an enhanced cushioned ride and high-level support. In addition to the tremendous performance highly suitable for weightlifting, the Powerlift.3 – a heavy duty everyday trainer also offers a single strap design and plenty of security for the recreational lifter.
Offering exceptional levels of cushioning, stability, and comfort, the Powerlift.3 is a sweet testimony to the continuous innovation and thoughtful design of the shoe. What makes this item having firmly been outstanding in the market of sports footwear more interesting is that, should you find the colors unattractive you can return the shoes for FREE! For all these reasons, the Adidas Performance Men’s Powerlift.3 cross-trainer shoe is the best money investment in shoes, especially for those in need of a hybrid shoe for CrossFit® style workouts, or functional fitness styled lifting.
Pros
- Perfect amount of cushioning. Perfect for everyday training.
- Lightweight synthetic upper
- Outstanding durability
Cons
- Tall and big guys might not find this perfect fit for them.
- A little high price
4. New Balance MX857 Cross-Training Shoe
If you are getting bored with running or tired of doing the same reps and sets, cross training, whose main aim is to help one improve fitness or performance in a certain sport, should be the perfect answer to your short fitness attention span. And no matter what you are planning to do or train for, comfort is always the name of the game. If your shoes can’t guarantee that, what can they do for you?
Having kept the established reputation for a ride and performance that most users – who need more stability in their performance have praised, the New Balance Men’s MX857 will not let you down. With great-quality materials for maximum comfort, support, and breathability together with a classical look, theBrooks Adrenaline GTS 18 training shoes will have you ready to perform at your best! The powerhouse of stability features like ROLLBAR with medial and lateral TPU posts for motion control technology delivering a tremendous amount of cushioning makes this go-to training shoe best suited to a pronated foot type.
With the same trusted cushion and support trainers have grown to love, plus a classical design, the New Balance Men’s MX857 shoes are plushly cushioned stability ones made for everyday training needs of moderate to severe overpronators. Defined as the perfect balance of soft cushion, superior stability, and total support with the strong leather mesh upper, the latest edition of this industry favorite is a perfect choice for the active man looking for a reliable training option. A shoe that continues to improve each year, the New Balance Men’s MX857 must be a go-to shoe in the future.
Pros
- The perfect balance of soft cushion and support
- Remarkably lighter shoe that gives a high amount of support.
- Provided removable perforated insole
Cons
- Narrower in size
5. Puma tazon 6 cross trainer
Switching up your workouts and adding new methods to your usual, everyday routine might be a good idea to span your fitness plan. But what to do first? Of course, choosing your right cross training shoes. The Puma is going to be one of your top choices if you are taking it from the gym to the pavement.
Even thoughthe Puma Tazon 6 looks like the perfect shoe for any active man who still wants to stay stylish, it provides the necessary arch support and shock absorption. Featuring a synthetic leather upper with perforations for a good airflow, lace-up closure for a snug and customizable fit, etc. this shoe is one of the best workout/training shoes for flat feet and a highly effective running and gym companion.
Besides the perfect out-of-the-box fit applauded by many trainers, it is the sleek, streamlined silhouette that sets the Puma Tazon 6 training shoes apart from the rest.
Offering the maximum breathability throughout the training course, Tazon 6 sneaker from Puma is right on trend. Are you now looking for a comfy low-top kick that can protect you from all foot-related injuries with its highly comfortable plush tongue and collar and midfoot saddle? Hit the gym or add an athleisure vibe to your casual attire with this sleek fitness shoe of Puma Tazon 6!
Pros
- Stylish and eye-catching design
- Great arch support
- EVA cushioning in the heel area
- A breathable upper
- Effective as a cross-trainer
- Good amount of colorways available
Cons
- Thin soles
6. Reebok Crossfit Nano 7
You could use more than just a straightforward running shoe if your goal is athleticism and total-body fitness. That’s where of the best training shoes of all time in the Nano series, the Reebok Crossfit Nano 7, excels. You may never train in a shoe as greatly made to take a beating as as this one.
Reebok has consistently been famous for producing and receiving positive marks for the great pairs of trainers in theirNano series. And Nano 7 is not an exception. The seventh generation of the iconic Reebok Nano, which continues to roll out new features, maximizing the all-purpose versatility of one of the industry’s most trusted cross-training shoes, promises to make you feel as comfortable as ever but it is highly recommended for such exercises as lateral movements and box jumps.
The new addition of the wraparound heel clips makes the seventh iteration of its signature CrossFit shoe them sturdier and more supported than any other Nano. Whether you are weightlifting, running, or under the harshest of conditions, the modest release of the Nano 7.0 live up to our high expectations. Keeping the natural shape and stability athletes covet and coming with a flexible bottom for mobility and traction, Reebok Nano 7 is one of the best training shoes on the market.
Pros
- Super light, flexible, and comfortable disposition
- Cushy and responsive CMEVA midsole gives enough cushioning the flat feet need
- Durable and grippy High Abrasion rubber outsole
- Stretchy and breathable upper
Cons
- Too long length but too tight midfoot
- May be too stiff.
7. Vibram KMD LS Cross Training Shoe
These Vibram shoes are freakishly comfortable and can take on any challenge you face, whatever and wherever that may be, whether it is running, cross-training, hiking, working out in, or casual traveling. And yes, consider that a challenge in and of itself. These shoes, which have a quick-lace setup accommodating wide feet and high insteps, are ready for you.
Super stable and really durable with the overlays in the fabric, the Vibram Men’s LS cross training shoe is designed for the most severe overpronated foot motion. Thanks to the special rope traction lugs in arch for rope climbing and circular lug pattern for grip during lateral movements, the next KMD Sport LS version is also responsive on unpredictable terrain.
Check your workout off your to-do list with the help of the all new Vibram Men’s LS cross training shoe with the uncompromised support and sensational cushioning coming together!
An insane amount of stability and shock absorption delivered by the TPU panels and a very comfortable upper make the Vibram Men’s LS cross training shoe a motion control running shoe providing lots of support to severe overpronators during all-day use. But it is its lightweight nature, its comfortable design, its stiff and stable platform, and the traction it brings to different surfaces that win all barefoot training enthusiasts’ hearts. Enjoy unbeatable stability from the beginning to the end of your cross training course with the Vibram Men’s LS cross training shoe without sacrificing comfortability.
Pros
- Fits perfectly
- Ideal for wide feet and high insteps
- Lightweight nature
- Responsive on unpredictable terrain
- Optimal balance of traction and durability
- Nice color, nice design
- Very comfortable
Cons
- The manufacturer should improve the durability of the shoe
- Lack breathability
- Unable to accommodate people with Morton’s toe, in which the second toe longer than the big toe.
8. Inov-8 F-lite 195
An anatomical design that will ensure that you have a more locked in stability, the Inov-8 F-Lite 195 is an innovation to the added list that you always have missed. There are also other much loved details that model is perfect for those ailing from flat feet need to get. Work hard and train harder with the Inov-8 F-Lite 195!
Featuring a zero heel-to-toe drop, the Inov-8 F-lite 195 helps flat-footed people train as comfortably and effectively as those with arched feet. META-FLEX and META-CRADLE technologies make it good all-round shoes that deliver a solid level of performance in each movement. The thin layer of protection between the foot and the ground with minimal extras make the Inov-8 F-lite 195 suitable for a wide range of functional fitness movements such as squats and lifting.
With the upper made of a one-piece, lightweight mesh with plastic overlays, the midsole – the perfect blend of cushioning and low profile, and the sticky rubber outsole featuring Rope-Tec reinforcements for rope climbing, awesome grip and flexibility for movement and speed, the Inov-8 F-Lite 195 is a perfect universal cross-training shoe. Thanks to a new internally structured one piece upper allowing the shoe to adapt and breathe with increased durability, it is really comfortable and gives a plenty of support. Another plus point is all colorways not just feminine or masculine easily making it one of the best choice of shoes for all fitness athletes.
Pros
- Super lightweight (at only 195 grams)
- A zero heel-to-toe drop;
- Gives an awesome support and feet feeling
- Stable during lifting and squatting
- Grippy and flexible.
Cons
- Modest cushioning
- The loose insole
- The stiff sole unit
- The outsole does not provide enough traction
9. Asics Gel-Craze TR 4
From one of the first companies to pioneer into the cross-trainer space, ASICS is gradually becoming a top one thanks to their Gel-Craze TR 4. The model which combines protection and responsiveness for ultimate performance has a superb fit for those ailing from flat feet. Credit that to the seamless mesh upper that reduces chance of irritation and hugs your foot as you move, improving comfort and giving you support just where you need it.
With the firm inner soles, the strong and sturdy construction, and Asics famous Gel cushioning technology, the Gel-Craze TR 4 is a perfect multipurpose shoe model. Thanks to its lighter weight midsole compound than ASICS’ standard EVA and SpEVA with enhanced cushioning and durability, it is stable enough for both HIIT and weight training, especially for people with flat feet. Get ultimate cross-training performance like no other in your Gel-Craze TR 4!
Searching for a versatile cross-training shoe combining protection and responsiveness for ultimate performance? The Gel-Craze TR 4 meant to help you perform at a high level is always an ideal choice. Whether you are hopping, and jumping, and skipping around, and running in the gym or outside, the Gel-Craze TR 4 designed with FluidAxis technology is extremely comfortable and without a doubt durable.
Pros
- Super lightweight
- Firm inner soles
- Gives an exceptional support for the feet
- Decent arch support offered by the sole
Cons
- Heel slippage possibility
10. PUMA Cell Surin 2 Cross-Training Shoe
If you are looking for something classic, then take the PUMA Men’s Cell Surin 2 Cross-Training Shoe into consideration. Manufactured by one of the best and leading companies developing the best shoes for your footwear, the Puma Men’s Cell Surin Cross-Training Shoe will not disappoint you. A versatile cross-training shoe with lightweight midsole materials creating a cushioned and bounce back experience, it can be used for gym training and as a casual shoe.
Another home run from Puma’s line, the PUMA Men’s Cell Surin 2 Cross-Training Shoe impresses trainers with its fantastic ride and construction at an incredibly attractive price. It starts in sports and finally ends up in fashion. Therefore, not only practical, but Puma’s cross-training shoes also add a touch of style to your feet. It is now becoming a more viable option for those who require a soft yet durable cushioning and the buyers’ top choice.
A lightweight shoe with a minimalist design that still incorporates stability and some motion control is perfect for indoor or outdoor workouts, from the running track to a spinning class. If you are going to go to the gym regularly into a number of different classes, the lightweight PUMA Men’s Cell Surin 2 Cross-Training Shoe does it all. Requiring no break-in, yet giving the athlete optimal support, this is dedicated to helping athletes achieve their goals.
Pros
- Very fast shoe.
- High-quality construction of the shoe
- Offers performance without sacrificing support
- 10CELL technology for optimal heel cushioning and added comfort
- TPU shank for increased stability
Cons
- Half-a-size smaller than their usual size.
- Too narrow for many trainers’ preferences.
Important Criteria to Consider When Choosing a Best Cross Training Shoes for Flat Feet
To manage to train injury free as hard as you want, those with flat feet require stable, supportive, and comfortable shoes. So, to find out a perfect pair of cross training shoes, take into consideration the following criteria:
Stability
Flat feet are a particular concern for trainers with strength-gaining goals and those with flat feet suffer from destabilization as their knees overcompensate and their foot rolls inward after landing. Therefore, to prevent pronation, the cross training shoes should have stabilizers on the side of the forefoot, arch support, and to provide additional support, a padded collar is required. Cross trainers are stable and should be even twice or three times more stable to provide sufficient support, balance to help overpronation.
Support
Flat feet need support. Without good support, there may be the risk of injury. Look for the best workout shoes with low arch, great lace-up system, good amount of cushioning, a padded tongue, a cushioned insole, and a proven track record of working well for flat footed people.
Cushioning
Cross trainers are considered as universal footwear which provides greater shock absorption in the forefoot and heel area like running shoes to improve shock absorption and enhance comfort.
Durability
As cross training puts much stress on the feet, the key to effective training is the high quality of the materials and technologies in the sneaker. Only the durable one, which is able to withstand everything, can keep up with repeated, long and regular use. Therefore, instead of expecting a good cross training shoe pair a cheap one, you can pay a little more than usual to get a good amount of wear out of cross training shoes for flat feet for your money.
Comfort
How to make your training more enjoyable? Pay attention to the comfort! Contributing to the overall comfort are a breathable shoe encouraging more air flow, padding on the tongue and the collar, a responsive and cushy midsole.
Size
Almost all trainers have different foot sizes. You get the correct size, then you get a perfect pair of cross-training shoes. The shoes true to your size mean that you will have a pleasant training experience. But the too small or too big shoes will give you discomfort and may cause injuries. For flat-foot fitnessers, my recommendation is to go for shoes with an increased width, which provide toes enough space to splay naturally. In general, trying them on, or at least, measuring the length and width of your foot before purchasing the sneaker is always the best way to find the perfect pair.
FAQ
Can you run with flat feet?
Definitely, the answer is that you shouldn’t run with heavy performance. Of course, you can keep running if you have flat feet. However, it will be too difficult for you to run with flat feet for long periods of time. Your flat feet will pound the pavement daily. If you keep running with your flat feet, pains commonly occur to your feet even your back, which affects your daily life significantly. Many people do not experience any pain or problem with their flat foot, but it affects the way you walk.
Running with your flat feet maybe makes you subject to an altered alignment of the pelvic girdle, femur, and tibia due to your condition. The pelvis and lower extremity will have internal rotation stresses, which can increase compress forces to the joints and strain to the soft tissues. Although this is just a minor problem, it can result in more debilitating one. Hence, you must find the best solution for your flat feet problem as soon as possible in case it is getting worse.
Can barefoot cure flat feet?
Flat feet happen if the arch of your feet is flat toward the ground. Barefoot running is an easy and natural method to treat flat feet. According to some researches, the number of people who experience flat feet is up to 30 percent. If you are running with barefoot, your midfoot or forefoot will hit the ground. This action happens continuously; your heel will touch the ground despite the irrelevant arch height. In addition, running barefoot also helps you to avoid some negative effects from flat feet by increasing strength and flexibility of your feet.
However, barefoot is not the best option on some surfaces or too warm ground in the afternoon. In these cases, choosing a running shoe for flat feet is a perfect idea.
Will run with flat feet make it worse?
Wearing an appropriate shoe and running will not make your flat feet worse by itself. Hence, it’s no need to limit your sports activities such as: walking barefoot, jumping or doing any exercise.
If your flat feet are getting painful, you should seek medical advice as soon as possible by seeing your doctor for his consultant.
When can I run after flat feet surgery?
The answer is not apparent that when you can run. It depends on your recovery time from flat feet surgery. Each person has different time for recovery after surgery. Commonly it will take from 6 to 8 weeks. However, be careful with any weight-bearing activities such as jumping or running. If you try to run long, your flat feet come back easily. The important thing you should do is walking or running on the soft surfaces or choosing a good – quality shoe for your feet.
How I choose the suitable shoes?
Flat feet are caused by the over-pronation. Hence, you should choose a pair of shoes which can not only reduce the over-pronation but also support your feet. A pair of shoes with a firmer midsole is an excellent idea for this purpose.
Choosing a right shoe for running with flat feet is not an easy action. You can go to the featured stores and consult the great idea from their expert staff. They may help you to analyze your mechanics, your feet type and then recommend some kinds of shoes that are appropriate to you.
However, you also can research and gain some knowledge then choose a suitable pair on your own directly at any stores or via online.
Which are the best stability running shoes I can choose for my flat feet?
Stability shoes are a kind of running shoes for flat feet. They are often made from layers of polyurethane in the arch to provide more stability. They also support arches which may be collapsed on foot strike.
This kind commonly uses dual density foam with a medial post, which is the primary technology. The firmer and gray piece of foam is located inside of midsole, commonly under the mid-foot regions or the heel regions that are highly affected by over-pronation.
Furthermore, stability shoes are breathable, well cushioned and lightweight. Thanks to soft synthetic upper – the standard material of most running shoes today, they can let off other common deformities in flat feet runners such as hammertoes and bunions. For those who have moderate and mild flat feet, stability shoes are an excellent choice.
I recommend some kinds of best stability shoes such as Adidas Adistar Boost, Asics Gel Kayano 19, Asics GT – 2000, Brooks Adrenaline GTS 13,…
Do I have severe overpronation, which kinds of shoes can help me?
In this case, motion control shoes can help you to solve your problem. They are often the most rigid and heavies shoes that are always available in the market of running footwear. This kind of shoes is typically designed to support the arch of your feet. Besides, they also provide some features like a relatively straight shape or last to counter the over-pronation and stiffer heels.
Motion control shoes are components of a dual – density foam below the medial arch. This can keep your ankle straight while you’re moving.
Some of the best motion control shoes I recommend are Mizuno Wave Inspire 9, Brooks Ariel (women)/ Beast (men), Asics Gel Evolution 6/ 11.
How useful are the insoles in supporting my flat feet?
The insole is just made from a thin piece of foam. If your shoes need enough support from both inside and outside to provide support for your flat feet, the insole is not. It comes with running shoes and does not provide any support.
A great pair of insoles for flat feet is really helpful in providing firm support for your arch, metatarsal bones or even your heel. This will not only guarantee your gait is aligned but also doesn’t cause too much stress on any part of your lower body.
Bottom Line
Well, you can now see that even flat-footed trainers can easily find the best cross training shoes by following our tips and checking the top 10 cross-training shoes for flat feet from the leading world brands again to find the perfect trainers.
