If you have flat feet, you’re not alone – an estimated 20–30% of people have flat feet because their arches never fully developed, according to North Texas Podiatry Associates, P.A.
I’ve done the research for you, testing and reviewing the best hiking boots specifically designed for flat feet.
In this article, you’ll discover what makes these boots different from standard hiking footwear and why I selected each one. My recommendations come from real-world testing and understanding exactly what flat-footed hikers need on the trail.
The Verdict – Our Nr. #1 Pick
These shoes felt super comfy during a long hike, and they are also very durable boots with a breathable lining that wicks moisture away well.
I really appreciated these shoes for their immediate comfort and excellent heel cushioning, which is great for my flat feet. They fit perfectly straight out of the box, providing stability and breathability with no break-in time required.
They also received many solid reviews from other customers.
Comparison Table
| Name | Rating | Fit (Width) | Weight | Waterproof | Upper Material | Best For | Durability |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Moab 2 Vent | 4.8 | Regular/Wide | Light | No | Mesh/Suede | Hot weather, comfort | High |
| Targhee II Mid | 4.7 | Wide/Roomy | Mid | Yes (KEEN.DRY) | Leather/Mesh | All-around, trails | High |
| X Ultra 3 Mid | 4.7 | Regular | Light | Yes (GTX) | Synthetic | Technical trails | High |
| Quest 4 | 4.6 | Regular/Wide | Heavy | Yes (GTX) | Nubuck/Synthetic | Backpacking, tough | Very High |
| Mt Maddsen Mid | 4.5 | Regular | Mid | Yes | Leather | All-purpose, casual | High |
| Talus Low | 4.5 | Regular | Light | Yes | Leather/Mesh | Day hikes, comfort | Good |
| Newton Ridge II | 4.3 | Regular | Mid | Yes | PU Leather/Mesh | Budget, wet trails | Average |
| Targhee III Low | 4.2 | Wide/Roomy | Light | Yes (GTX) | Leather/Synthetic | Wide feet, day hikes | High |
| White Ledge Mid | 4.1 | Regular | Mid | Yes | Leather | Value, light hikes | Average |
| Lowa Renegade | 4.0 | Regular | Mid | Yes (GTX) | Nubuck Leather | All-terrain, support | High |
| Asolo Falcon GV | 3.8 | Regular | Light | Yes (GTX) | Suede/Synthetic | Long hikes, technical | High |
To identify the top 11 hiking boots for flat feet, we tested 16 pairs across the United States and Europe. Each underwent trials across terrains like flat, rocky, muddy, and gravel. We evaluated their waterproofing in rain, breathability in heat, and insulation in snow. Our team’s multi-day tests, supplemented by independent experts, determined the break-in period. Boots were rated on criteria such as fit, cushioning, tread, breathability, and more. After calculating average scores, we incorporated external feedback and warranties into our final recommendations. Learn more about our product selection process.
EDITOR’S CHOICE
Merrell Moab 2 Vent
#2ND BEST CHOICE
KEEN Targhee 2 Mid
#3RD BEST CHOICE
Salomon X Ultra 3 Gtx
Our Top Recommended Hiking Boots For Flat Feet
1) Merrell Moab 2 Vent Hiking Shoe – Rating 4.8/5
The Merrell Moab is known for its comfort level and the excellent cushioning that they provide on the heel.
This lightweight shoe is a fantastic choice for adventurers who want a high-performing option that isn’t a traditional hiking boot. Although these hiking shoes look minimalist, they still deliver stability, support, and breathability.
The extra padding absorbs shock very well. This feature is especially important for flat-footed hikers.
They claim to be true to size, and I found that to be true. When I ordered my regular size, they fit well straight out of the box.
PROS
CONS
2) KEEN Targhee II Mid-Hiking Boots – Rating 4.7/5
This completely waterproof boot offers extra heel support as well, making it one of the most versatile boots for flat-footed hikers.
The Targhee II is one of the best boots for flat feet because of its excellent arch support.
These boots can cost a bit more than some of the others, but we found them on sale, and their excellent comfort and durability make them worth the investment. Of all the boots I tried on, this pair proved very suitable for hiking long distances.
These also make a great option for hikers who prefer a 100% full-grain leather boot.
PROS
CONS
3) Salomon X Ultra 3 Mid GTX – Rating 4.7/5
They’re also very comfortable, and the OrthoLite insole works great for flat feet because it provides excellent cushioning.
If you’re looking for genuinely waterproof hiking boots, the Salomon X Ultra 3 Mid features a Gore-Tex membrane that effectively keeps water out.
This design element, paired with the shock-absorbing EVA midsole, makes it an excellent pick.
I was curious about their descent control technology, which claims to provide extra stability when going downhill, even on slick terrain. When I tried this feature, it truly made me feel more secure on wet rocks.
Check our Salomon X Ultra 3 Mid GTX review for more information on this product.
PROS
CONS
4) Salomon Quest 4 GORE-TEX – Rating 4.6/5
These definitely provided my foot with excellent support during a summit hike, and rigidity through the arch protected my fallen arches well.
If you’re looking for a pair of rugged hiking boots that will take you comfortably through the mountains or roughest terrain, the Salomon Quest 4 is a great option. These boots are designed for extreme conditions and hold up well to their claims.
Although they are expensive, they are built to last and made of high-quality premium nubuck leather with a gore-tex membrane. They’re also lightweight, a rare find in a boot with this type of construction, which is part of why they made our list of best-hiking boots for flat feet.
PROS
CONS
5) Timberland Mt Maddsen Mid Leather – Rating 4.5/5
This leather boot is waterproofed as part of the tanning process, making it hold up better than other waterproofing methods.
This boot brands itself as “anti-fatigue”, and the geometric cone technology built into the midsole provides comfort when standing, shock absorption, and helps keep energy levels. These features make it one of the best hiking boots for flat feet.
Customers say that the waterproofing held up well over time also. In my short experience testing them out, it seems to hold up well, but only time will tell if this continues in the long run.
PROS
CONS
6) Vasque Talus Low Hiking Shoe – Rating 4.5/5
The excellent support partly has to do with the thermoplastic urethane (TU) shanks in the footbed. These shanks work great for providing enhanced stability to the arch and heel.
For hikers with flat feet looking for a hiking shoe rather than a boot, the Vasque Talus makes a great option. It’s not only supportive in the right places but also very lightweight and breathable.
They also have a waterproof membrane which keeps your feet dry in muddy or rainy conditions. I was slightly disappointed in the color options, as only two colors appear available, and none of them really matched my style.
However, I could overlook it because of the way they worked well with my flat feet.
PROS
CONS
7) Columbia Newton Ridge Plus II Waterproof – Rating 4.3/5
The rubber sole of these boots features a multi-terrain traction system suitable for many different terrains, including ice and snow.
Columbia has made quality hiking boots for a while now, so it’s no wonder that they make our list of best hiking boots for flat feet. Columbia Newton Ridge Plus II Waterproof comes in various colors and is made of waterproof material that holds up well.
The Techlite midsole provides great cushioning. My flat feet really felt comfortable and well-supported in these boots.
While testing these boots in shallow water for several minutes, I noticed that the upper did let some water seep through, causing my socks to get moisture.
For a complete breakdown check our Columbia Newton Ridge Review.
PROS
CONS
8) KEEN Targhee III Low – Rating 4.2/5
The ankle support on these is exceptional, and they have a durable waterproof cover that helps them hold up well in harsh weather.
The Targhee III, another KEEN hiking shoe on our list, offers support and water resistance for those with flat feet. Its low cut is comfortable, and I appreciate being able to swap out the insoles for my orthotics, improving support for my arch and heel.
This shoe combines a classic hiking boot design with the unusual choice of an Oxford shoe style, maintaining durability for outdoor activities.
PROS
CONS
9) Timberland White Ledge Mid Ankle Boot – Rating 4.1/5
This leather upper hiking boot is one of Timberland’s best sellers for many reasons. It’s especially good for winter hikes and outdoor activities.
Its extra stability is nearly unmatched, and these boots greatly eliminate foot and leg fatigue and other issues that hikers with flat feet often face on the trail. You can also remove the insoles and replace them with your own, another important feature for people with flat feet.
I appreciated the speed-lace hardware on these, making them easy to put on and take off and supporting various lacing configurations.
PROS
CONS
10) Lowa Renegade GTX Mid Hiking Boot – Rating 4.0/5
The shock-absorbent Vibram soles and reinforced toe make them comfortable in tough environments. They also are good at preventing slippage on wet rocks.
Lowa Renegade Gtx Mid hiking boots are a great option for people with flat feet who do a lot of day hikes on moderate terrain. They support loads of up to 25 pounds, so you can count on them to hold up when you’re carrying a backpack.
Our team reviewed Lowa Renegade Gore-tex Mid, and we liked the look of these hiking boots because they came in some unique color combinations that other hiking boots don’t offer, making them stand out on the trail.
Although these boots are quite pricy, they hold up well and keep my flat feet comfortable during some long day hikes.
PROS
CONS
11) Asolo Falcon GV Hiking Boot – Rating 3.8/5
They’re as durable as heavier boots, but the elastomer-based footbed is much lighter than the ones that have full leather construction.
If you like wearing hiking boots but want something a bit more or a lightweight feel these boots are a great hybrid between traditional hiking boots and hiking shoes.
Many reviewers said they were comfortable right out of the box, and I agree with that assessment. Asolo Falcon GV boots required not breaking in time at all before I was comfortable wearing them, even with my flat feet.
Even though they’re a lower profile than some other hiking boots, they still provide great ankle support. The waterproofing also works well in rainy conditions, muddy terrain, or wintery weather.
PROS
CONS
What We Considered when Choosing the Best Flat Feet Hiking Shoes
We considered the following criteria as we analyzed and tested the different hiking boots on the market for flat feet. These criteria helped us determine our 11 best hiking shoes for flat feet.
1. Fit
Boots that are designed for flat feet offer extra arch support to reduce the strain on ligaments and tendons. However, for this to happen, you need to get a pair that fits you well, ensuring that your foot is properly aligned inside.
We checked every pair we tested to ensure a secure fit and that the hiking shoes prevented our heels from slipping. We also ensured that areas didn’t rub or cause blisters and worked well for a pain-free hike.
Salomon Quest 4 GORE TEX scored the highest for this section, with a 9.5/10 rating granted for its glove-like fit, while the Asolo Falcon GV Hiking Boot got a 9/10 score for its comfortable feel out of the box.
At the other end of the scale, Columbia Newton Ridge Plus II Waterproof scored only 6/10 on our fit scale due to its narrow toe box design.
2. Weight
We looked for shoes that were light in weight and avoided making our feet feel fatigued while walking, but we also took into account that a shoe that is too light may not offer enough support.
A good balance between weight and support is important, especially if you’re carrying a heavy load and don’t want anything extra weighing you down.
With a 9/10 score, Salomon X Ultra 3 Mid GTX managed to pair both good cushioning and a light feel that kept us going on the trail. Unfortunately, when it comes to weight, Timberland Mt Maddsen Mid Leather felt clunky and heavy, scoring only 5/10 on our weight scale.
3. Tread
Hiking boots with a good tread pattern and a rubber outsole will help to give you high traction on slippery surfaces and prevent falls or other injuries.
The only downside of deep lugs is that they can sometimes get clogged, but we found that it only happens in extremely muddy situations.
Our tests revealed that all the boots on our list provide great traction on various terrains, but KEEN Targhee II Mid and Salomon Quest 4 GORE-TEX scored higher (9/10) for their superior performance on rocky terrain and slippery areas.
Conversely, Columbia Newton Ridge Plus II Waterproof showed a few issues in handling wet surfaces, so we only granted it a 7/10 score for traction.
4. Breathability
Good ventilation makes all the difference during long hikes that can make your feet sweat, especially in the summer. Yet, breathable shoes often make a compromise, trading features like waterproofing or insulation for better temperature and sweat management.
We rated Merrell Moab 2 Vent’s breathability 9/10 for its mesh insertions that make it one of the best choices for warm weather, while Salomon X Ultra 3 Mid GTX also proved a comfortable choice even with a waterproof membrane (8/10).
Woefully, we found that Timberland Mt Maddsen Mid Leather tends to get hot during more intense endeavors, scoring only 6/10 for breathability.
5. Cushioning
This area of evaluation is perhaps the most important for hikers with flat feet. People with fallen arches need this extra level of cushion to remain without pain, although it does reduce the ground feel and adds extra shoe weight.
The Salomon X Ultra 3 Mid GTX scored an impressive 9.5/10 for this section thanks to its capacity to absorb shocks and remain comfortable without compromising lightness too much.
Asolo Falcon GV, on the other hand, could use more solid cushioning and improved support, although it scores pretty high itself (8/10).
6. Comfort
Nothing is worse than experiencing discomfort during the middle of a hike. We ensured that we tested the best hiking shoes for flat feet that made our feet comfortable for long distances and included features like a contoured footbed or memory foam.
While these features often add extra weight, two hiking boots on our list – the KEEN Targhee III Low and Asolo Falcon GV Hiking Boot – managed to preserve a good balance between comfort and weight, gaining a 9/10 score.
The Timberland Mt Maddsen Mid Leather, on the other hand, scores lower in terms of comfort (6/10) due to its rigid structure.
7. Water Resistance
When hiking, you may come across showers, streams, or a bit of dew in the morning, which calls for good water protection from your footwear.
While a waterproof membrane reduces breathability since it interferes with the air circulation around your feet, it can also help you stay comfortable, preventing chafing and blisters often caused by water entering your boots.
Salomon X Ultra 3 Mid GTX excels at this chapter, with a 9/10 score on our part, while Vasque Talus Low Hiking Shoe could use some improvements in its upper material, which we found to absorb moisture and therefore granted it a 7/10 water-resistance score.
8. Ankle Support
Ankle support helps in preventing sprains and twists by stabilizing the ankle joint. This is a nice bonus, especially on uneven or rocky terrains, reducing the risk of injuries during hiking.
You will also benefit from increased stability and protection against debris, although at first, you may need to put up with the longer break-in period these models entail.
The Lowa Renegade GTX Mid Hiking Boot is a good example of a protective boot with a 9.5/10 score for its ankle cushioning.
However, we wouldn’t recommend KEEN Targhee III Low if you are trying to avoid ankle rolls due to its low-cut design – it gets a 4/10 from us for this section.
What Other Products Could Help When Hiking With Flat Feet?
If your flat feet bother you while you hike, you may want to use a special orthotic insole to improve the support for the arches and heels of your feet [1].
These top hiking insoles can also add more cushion to this area and give you all the stability you need for your hiking adventure.
FAQs
Hiking shoes made for flat feet provide added support, a roomier fit, and more shock absorption to keep your feet stable and comfortable during walks or hikes.
Yes, people with flat feet can hike without pain or discomfort, provided that they wear shoes with ultimate support and a shock-absorbing midsole.
Salomon boots are great shoes for flat feet. The OrthoLite supportive footbed provides extra comfort and stability to help the foot remain supported throughout the duration of your day hike or longer outdoor adventure.
This post is a lifesaver! I’ve been struggling with finding the right hiking boots for my flat feet, and the recommendations here are so helpful. I appreciate the focus on arch support, and the detailed reviews really give insight into each option. Can’t wait to try some of these out on my next hike! Thank you for such a thorough guide!
Thank you for this informative post! I’ve been struggling to find the right hiking boots for my flat feet, and your recommendations are super helpful. I appreciate the details about arch support and comfort for long hikes. Can’t wait to try some of these out on my next adventure!