16 Best Hiking Boots for Flat Feet in 2023 (Super Comfy!)

Looking for the best hiking boots for flat feet?

In all my experience hiking, the biggest challenge I have faced is painful feet.

Rain, mud, and grotty camp food can all be tolerated with a smile but painful feet and I turn into a melodramatic grumpy bear.

Painful feet are a norm for us, women, with flat feet and I had to search AGES to find the right hiking boots that could cater for my flat feet and keep them happy and pain-free.

If you can relate and you also want a pain free hike, check out the list of best hiking boots for flat feet I have found for you below!

Disclosure

Some of the links below are affiliate links and I may earn if you click and buy from them, AT NO EXTRA cost to you. Hope you find the information here useful! Thank you so much.

My Top Recommendations

Best Quality: Merrell Moab 2 Mid Waterproof Hiking Boots

Most Budget-Friendly: Dunham Cloud Men’s Waterproof Boot

Mid Range Compromise: Columbia Women’s Newton Shoes

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16 Hiking Boots For Flat Feet

1.Merrell Moab 2 Mid Waterproof Hiking Boots

The Merrell Moab 2 Mid Waterproof Hiking Boots are true to the reputation of the best hiking boots for flat feet and overpronation. A versatile package of durable leathers, a supportive footbed, and Vibram traction perfect for your flat feet condition.

These best men’s hiking boots for flat feet are made of 100% suede leather/mesh for durability and ventilation. They are also made of synthetic soles for good grip and traction on challenging surfaces.

What’s Great

Waterproof and moisture-wicking
Molded nylon arch shank for flat feet support
Bellows and closed-cell foam tongue to keep moisture and dirt out
Shock-absorbent air cushion for security and protection
Added stability with 5mm lug depth
Protective rubber toe cap and breathable mesh lining
Heel support and contoured footbed with zonal arch addition for added support

What’s Not

Short lifespan of the tread and sole, apply leather conditioner at least once a month to avoid this
Not enough grip and traction on very slippery surfaces, suitable for moderate terrains

2.Dunham Cloud Men’s Waterproof Boot

The Dunham Cloud Men’s Waterproof Boots are suitable for various occasions. The leather upper has string seams and laces and a rubber-reinforced toe guard. The mid-cut collar of these flat foot hiking boots provides ultimate ankle support and the durable rubber outsoles help keep you grounded on rough terrains.

What’s Great

Rubber sole for ample grip and traction
4.5” shaft measurement from arch for added support
Adjustable circumference for comfort and flexibility
Removable ethyl vinyl acetate (EVA) and memory foam footbed plus cradle for stability and comfort

What’s Not

Not completely waterproof, avoid streaming water and water pools
Constant jabbing pressure on feet, make sure your sufficiently break in before long hikes

3.Columbia Women’s Newton Ridge Shoes

These best hiking boots for flat feet women are made with strong stitching and high-quality materials. They are constructed with waterproof seam with full-grain leather and suede upper and designed for long-lasting hiking use.

The Columbia Women’s Newton Ridge Shoes are the stable and secure boots you want on long treks over difficult terrains. They also have a mesh tongue, a scratch rubber heel, and outdoor lace hardware.

What’s Great

Slip-free movement rubber sole
5” Shaft measurement from arch for added support
Durable and lightweight midsoles for ultimate cushioning and comfort
Waterproof full-grain leather and long-lasting suede construction
Durable and breathable mesh tongue
Lace-up closure for a secure adjustable fit
Soft suede exterior for comfort
Solid footing on icy and snowy surfaces from dual-zone winter tread pattern

What’s Not

Fit smaller than your regular shoe size, consider sizing up or consult for best fit
Needs regular maintenance by applying leather conditioner and drying after used on wet conditions

4.Oboz Bridger Mid Hiking Boots

The Oboz Bridger Mid Hiking Boots have insoles molded to match the specific construction and shape of every pair of hiking boots made. Made of nubuck full leather, they provide durability and utmost protection.

These good hiking boots for flat feet also have molded rubber toe caps to protect your toes from trail debris. They come with a heel counter to maintain a comfortable snug fit.

What’s Great

Suitable for day hiking
TPU Chassis improves stability and avoids stone bruising
Single-density EVA gives comfort and added cushioning
Outsoles built for added support and protection for hiking
Waterproof and well-ventilated

What’s Not

Could hurt you feet after more than 10 wears if you do not maintain properly – try drying and applying leather conditioner to ensure the hiking boots are still comfortable to be worn
Fit smaller than your regular shoe size which could cause blisters, so consult for best fit

5.REI Co-Op Flash Hiking Boots

The REI Co-Op Flash Hiking Boots uppers are made from 99% recycled polyester and are lightweight and durable. The rubber tread provides an anti-slip grip on various terrains with 4mm lugs.

The midsoles are created with algae-based foam to cushion your feet soft like your running shoes. These men’s hiking boots for flat feet have insoles created with podiatrists for comfort and support.

What’s Great

Durable and supportive uppers for long hours of light hikes
Molded nylon midfoot shanks give lightweight support, protect your feet, and propel you forward
Midfoot cradle system made of polyester webbing and lacing for ultimate support
Adjustable and locked-down fit
Extra toe space for natural changes (like swelling)

What’s Not

Too much pressure when worn straight out of the box- need proper breaking in
The tongue is too long and creates pain, consider sizing up a bit, or take more time to break in

6.KEEN Voyageur Women’s Low Hiking Boots

Made of waterproof leather and breathable mesh upper, the KEEN Voyageur Women’s Low Hiking Boots are suitable for beaches, mountains, and city streets. If you stain these hiking boots for flat feet womens, treat them by rubbing gum eraser lightly. Gently brush debris and loose dirt with a soft bristle brush or hand towel.

The soles are made of rubber for grip and traction. The uppers repel water and the mesh increases ventilation.

What’s Great

High-traction grip from the terrain rubber outsoles suitable for muddy and rocky environments
Multi-directional 4mm lugs for ultimate traction and security
Dual density EVA midsole for support and comfort and to reduce boot overall weight
Lightweight support from the external stability shank
Cushioned collars reduce discomfort and irritation around your ankles
Foot sealed in place with reinforced eyelets

What’s Not

Narrow toe box – consider sizing up a bit or consult for best fit

7.LOWA Renegade GTX Women’s Flat Feet Hiking Boots 4.7*

If you’re into short day hikes, the LOWA Renegade GTX Women’s Flat Feet Hiking Boots are perfect for you. With a footbed that eliminates moisture, these best women’s hiking boots for flat feet comes with a full-length nylon shank and shock-absorbent Vibram soles.

These hiking boots for flat feet also support loads up to 25 pounds. They are also equipped with corded lace-up vamp and speed-lacing grommets uppers.

What’s Great

4.75” shaft measurement from arch for added support
1.5” heel measurement for stability and protection
1” platform measurement to help you propel forward while hiking
Padded tongues and collars for comfort
Full-length nylon stabilizing shank for support

What’s Not

Not wide toed, you might want to get a slightly bigger size for toe comfort
Could feel bulky and heavy, suitable for light hikes and bringing light backpacks

8.Merrell Women’s Siren Hiking Shoe

These best hiking shoes for flat feet are made of breathable mesh and TP for uppers and have traditional lace closure. The soles are made of rubber for traction gripping. They have the bellow tongue to keep debris out.

The Merrell Women’s Siren Hiking Shoes have contoured insoles for flexible support. Specifically designed for a woman’s foot, you will find yourself fully supported all day long.

What’s Great

3D-printed TPU for support and breathable mesh upper
Plush tongue and collar that provide comfort
Lace-up closure and heel pull tab for adjustable fit around your ankle
Contoured insoles to fit foot shape for arch and lightweight support
Shock-absorbent
Molded nylon arch shank for added support

What’s Not

The bottoms could get heavy, suitable for light hikes
The footbed could get lumpy over time, so make sure you maintain by drying properly and not allowing any moisture trapped to avoid this

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

These best hiking boots for flat feet men’s keep your feet dry and comfortable. They provide great traction control with 4mm lug depth. The ES shank gives torsional stability for support through various surfaces.

The KEEN Targhee II Mid WP Hiking Boots allow you to hike without wetting your feet with its 100% waterproof nubuck leather. They also have rubber soles for traction grip on various surfaces.

What’s Great

The waterproof breathable material keeps your feet dry and comfortable all day long
The leather is treated with PFC-free water repellent to avoid water from flooding the boots
High-traction grip rubber outsoles suitable for all environments
Leave no traces indoor with non-marking rubber outsoles
Added ankle support and balance with External Support Shank (ESS), mid-cut, and contoured heels
Low-profile upper for secure fit with padded collar and tongue

What’s Not

The boots could wear off quickly if worn on extreme conditions
Need regular treatment to last long (apply leather conditioner)

10.Salomon Quest 4D 2 GTX

These best hiking boots for wide flat feet are built to carry heavy burdens in hostile mountain ranges. The boots are lightweight, anti-static, and provide ultimate support, traction, and weather protection.

What’s best is that the Salomon Quest 4D 2 GTX has oil- and slip-resistant outsoles as well as puncture-resistant. As a well-known military personnel footwear, these boots provide stable and durable support in extreme conditions.

What’s Great

Durable all-around hiking boots for extreme conditions
Suitable for rough terrains
Waterproof and lightweight
Wide toes for comfort if you toes swell

What’s Not

The boots can get stiff especially out of the box, so break in slowly and properly
Hurt your feet if not properly broken in

11.Skechers Men’s Pelmo Boots

The Skechers Men’s Pelmo Boots are made of 100% leather and have synthetic soles that grip like a glue! These hiking boots for wide flat feet are also comfortable to stand in for a long time.

The hiking boots are waterproof and suitable to be worn in snowy weather. This makes the boots tough and durable.

What’s Great

Memory foam for comfort cushioning
Relaxed fit, not too tight
Synthetic soles for security and slip-free movement
Ankle high shaft measurement from arch for ultimate support
10” boot opening measurement for comfort
Waterproof and durable
Warm in cold weather

What’s Not

Do not last that long on regular rough terrains, suitable on moderate terrains
Insoles are not durable, might need extra or take out the insoles after every rigid use to eliminate moisture

12.Merrell Moab 2 Hiking Shoe

These hiking shoes for flat feet are made of suede leather and mesh for durability and ventilation. With man-made soles, the shoes are anti-slip and can stand on slippery surfaces well, as long as you don’t stand in flowing water.

What’s Great

High performance suede leather and mesh upper
Bellows and closed-cell foam tongue to avoid moisture and debris
Protective rubber toe cap
5mm lug depth mesh lining for ventilation and air circulation

What’s Not

Not waterproof so avoid wet conditions

13.Vasque Men’s Mantra 2.0 Hiking Shoe

These flat feet hiking boots are made of abrasion-resistant mesh and nubuck leather upper for durability and breathability. They also have vibram soles. The low-cut boots have the same grip and stability of backpacking boots.

What’s Great

Comfortable fit by speed lacing system
Dual-density EVA footbed for support and comfort
Vibram outsoles for trail traction and slip-free movement
Removable insoles – can be worn or not (up to you)
Excellent support, flexibility, and comfort

What’s Not

Not enough traction on very slippery surfaces
Small toe box, consider sizing up a bit or consult for best fit

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

These hiking boots from Timberland are made of 100% premium waterproof leather with seam-sealed construction. They are great looking, comfortable, and durable.They have gusseted tongues and EVA footbeds and midsoles for comfort.

The Timberland Men’s White Ledge Mid Waterproof Ankle Boots have rubber soles and 4.75” shaft measurement from arch. With rustproof speed lace hardware and hooks at the top, expect secure lacing and support.

What’s Great

Great for various mild conditions
Seam-sealed construction provides waterproof quality
Gusseted tongues for long-lasting wear
Speedy and secure lace-up for security and comfort
Provides arch support

What’s Not

Only suitable for casual hikes, not for rough terrains and extreme conditions

15.Zamberlan Vioz GT

These hiking boots for flat feet are most suitable for extra rough terrains.

They are equipped with safety and comfortable features. They are also good for a day hike, outdoor work, and adventure travel. The soles are man made and the Zamberlan Vioz GT boots are made of full-grain leather.

What’s Great

Breathable waterproof lining
Contoured and moisture-wicking flatbed
Deep-lug rubber soles for traction and durability
Durable and high performing rubber outsoles
Gore-Tex lining to protect your feet from various climates
Lightweight and breathable
Great lateral support and freedom of movement

What’s Not

Soles could detach, so dry after every use on wet terrains
Not suitable to hike on steep surfaces

16.XPETI Women’s Thermator Mid High-Top Waterproof Outdoor Hiking Boot

The XPETI Women’s Thermator Mid High-Top Waterproof Outdoor Hiking Boots have molding toe caps and TPU heels to protect your feet. They have cushioned EVA midsoles for durability, stability, extra support, and comfort. These womens hiking boots for flat feet are the most suitable to be worn for winter hiking.

What’s Great

8” shaft measurement from arch
Hydroshield membrane waterproof mesh upper to keep your feet cool and dry
Sturdy although when carrying load
EVA midsoles to lessen foot fatigue and absorb shock
Molded TP heel stabilizer for durability
Ultimate X-grip and rubber outsoles for higher traction grip

What’s Not

Fit smaller feet, consider sizing up or consult for best fit
Padding could wear out, so clean properly

Types of Flat Feet

hiking boots for flat feet women wearing shoes

Flat feet or pes planus is a condition where your foot arches touch the floor when you’re standing up.

There are several conditions related to flat feet, which are neutral or pronation, overpronation,and underpronation.

Neutral Pronation occurs when your foot moves from side to side when you walk or run. This condition can also occur when you’re standing, and the term pronation refers to how much your foot rolls inward toward the arch.
Overpronation or pronation happens when the foot rolls too far inward toward the arch.
Underpronation, or supination, happens when the foot rolls too far outward from the arch.

From the brief descriptions above, hopefully you can identify which type of flat feet you have. However, do not be alarmed, having flat feet does not mean you can’t do vigorous activities like hiking.

You only have to find a suitable pair of shoes for ultimate comfort. For your convenience, just refer to the list above.

Things To Consider When Choosing The Best Hiking Boots

hiking boots for flat feet side view walking bridge

Before choosing the best walking boots for flat feet, you should tick the checklist below carefully. Make sure all these characteristics are fulfilled before you buy.

1.Sufficient Cushioning

Cushioning is very important at the midsole of walking boots for flat feet. This is good for arch support and especially if you have fallen arches…

2.Support For Ankle And Arch

Hiking boots for flat feet with ample ankle support would be a good choice to avoid overpronating stride. The pressure on the ankles that roll too far outward can cause tremendous discomfort. Hence, hiking boots with good ankle support will keep your feet in the neutral stride.

3.Quality Materials

Hiking boots of good quality are a must to maintain their supportive structure and stay in shape for long and active uses.

4.Fitting

For a longer comfortable hiking journey, hiking boots should not be too tight or too loose. If you have feet, they tend to be wide, so choosing tight hiking boots will cause more pressure and stress on your feet.

On the other hand, loose hiking boots would create more friction, leading to more chafing and movement, causing blisters! Be sure to carefully measure your foot and gain the correct fitting.

5.Grip and Traction

Hiking boots with good grip and traction should help you maintain your stability. It also avoids slipping mid-hike and keeps you grounded. Deep and multi-directional lugs for the outsole are good to ensure good traction. Anything above 4mm or more is great for you.

6.Insulation and Breathability

Hiking on different challenging surfaces requires hiking boots with good insulation and breathability. Without them, you might suffer blisters.

7.Waterproof

It is always good to wear waterproof hiking boots to avoid water from coming in. This should avoid blisters which could further cause you discomfort.

8. For Neutral Pronation

Neutral pronation occurs when your foot naturally rolls around 15 percent inward and absorbs the shock. This allows your legs and ankles to be correctly aligned.

Compared to other pronation types, this causes you to be less prone to regular injuries.

If you’re in this category, you need hiking shoes that emphasize stability and balanced insole cushion.

9.For Overpronation

For overpronation, where your foot rolls inward, you need hiking boots that are durable and have cushion toward the inside. This provides you with ample support so your feet will stay supported.

10.For Underpronation

If you’re in the underpronation or supination group, you need a sturdy and lightweight outward sole for your foot that rolls too far outward. This will give you more support and protection.

Taking Care Of Your Hiking Boots

To keep you hiking boots longer lasting and stay durable, you can try these tips:

Slowly break into your leather hiking boots. Never immediately put wax on them. Before going on long hikes, go on shorter ones first. Let them get a little lighter and more pliable from the sun and uses.

Make sure they are dry and clean. You can clean off the mud by hosing them down with water and brushing them off. Place them in a warm room or a dryer. Never put them near a heater or it will melt the soles and crack the leather.

Remove the insoles after each use. Wet insoles could cause the hiking boots to become smelly and dirty. Letting them out overnight should do it.

Keep them waterproof. You can do this by applying a thin layer of waterproof agent. Just do this periodically, not all the time.

Frequently Asked Questions

How To Deal With Flat Feet While Hiking?

When you’re a hiker with flat feet, you are prone to have arch support issues. Hence, wearing good hiking boots for flat feet should help you overcome it since they are equipped with midsole/outsole cushioning for extra comfort and support.

How To Make My Boots More Comfortable?

There are several ways that you can do this:

Regularly wear them on short hikes first before going on longer hikes.
Wear them with double socks which should help stretch and break in your boots faster.
Apply heat on leather boots gently. You can use a hair dryer on low heat to do this. Do not heat it too much or you will damage the boots.

How To Pick The Right Size?

Measure the circumference by wrapping a string or a measuring tape around your foot at the widest part (usually the bunion joint). There may be variations in foot sizes, so do this for both feet. Your size is typically the length plus 1 inch for most manufacturers You can refer to this video for reference.

Should Hiking Boots Have Arch Support?

This is a definite yes! An important part of the right fit is proper arch support. The best hiking boots will hold your foot securely and perfectly fit your feet. You should also consider the weight, boot flex, outsole tread, and breathability.

Are Boots Good For Flat Feet?

This is a yes! Ample arch support should be in ideal hiking boots for flat feet. They should also have high ankles, keep you warm, and a supportive sole. Make sure you choose a pair that fits appropriately.

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Conclusion

All in all, the best hiking boots for flat feet are those with comfortable shanks and ankle support. These are the best. But you can do trial and error to see what’s best for your condition. Hope the list above helps! Happy browsing!