The 60 Best Work Shoes for Flat Feet


Around thirty percent of the population has flat feet. That means no defined arch, so the entire sole of your foot touches the ground and absorbs the impact when you walk. When you have flat feet as I do, you understand the struggle find quality work footwear that feels comfortable for long hours on your feet. We have found work shoes that offer extra support for people with flat feet, and these shoes are suitable for a variety of professions.

These are our picks for the best work shoes for flat feet.

Work ShoeFitPriceSafety Toe?Best Feature
KEEN Utility Men’s Atlanta Cool Steel Toe Work ShoeMenModerately pricedSteelOur pick for the best men’s work shoe for flat feet; dual density EVA foam midsole and insole for shock absorption and comfort
Timberland PRO Women’s Powertrain Sport Alloy Toe SD+ Industrial and Construction ShoeWomenModerately pricedAlloyOur pick for the best women’s work shoe for flat feet; dual-density rubber outsole has Anti-fatigue technology to prevent sore feet
Skechers Felton Work ShoeMenBudget-friendlyNoShock-absorbent midsole
Timberland PRO Men’s 40008 Mudsill Low Steel Toe ShoeMenModerately pricedSteel24/7 PRO Comfort Suspension system for reduced foot fatigue
Skechers For Work Men’s Flex Advantage Slip-Resistant Mcallen Slip-On ShoeMenBudget-friendlyNoDesigned for standing and walking for long hours
Fila Women’s Memory Foam Workshift Cross Training ShoeWomenBudget-friendlyNoGreat fit for wide, flat feet
KEEN Utility Women’s Flint Low Work ShoeWomenModerately pricedSteelDual-density EVA memory foam midsole and insole for comfort and shock absorption
Page Contents
The Best Work Shoes for Flat FeetKEEN Utility Men’s Atlanta Cool Steel Toe Work ShoeTimberland PRO Women’s Powertrain Sport Alloy Toe SD+ Industrial and Construction ShoeSkechers Felton Work ShoeTimberland PRO Men’s 40008 Mudsill Low Steel Toe ShoeSkechers For Work Men’s Flex Advantage Slip-Resistant Mcallen Slip-On ShoeSkechers Women’s Work Relaxed Fit Sure TrackFila Women’s Memory Foam Workshift Cross Training ShoeKEEN Utility Women’s Flint Low Work ShoeOrthofeet Women’s SneakersGravity Defyer Proven Pain Relief Men's G-Defy Mighty WalkSkechers Work Sure TrackSkechers Men's Afterburn Memory-Foam Lace-up SneakerGravity Defyer Proven Pain Relief Women's G-Defy Mighty WalkNew Balance Women's 877 V1 ASICS Women's GEL-Venture 5 KEEN Utility Men's Flint II Work Shoe Skechers Women's D'Lites Memory Foam Lace-up SneakerKEEN Utility Men's Detroit XT Waterproof Work BootDr. Scholl's Shoes Women's Kimberly Work ShoeSlow Man's Women's Slip-on Walking ShoeTimberland PRO Men's Bosshog 6" Industrial BootSkechers Men's Cessnock ShoeASICS Men's Gel-Kayano 26Brooks Men's Beast 18Caterpillar Men's Diagnostic  BootSkechers Women's Shape Ups S2 Lite Lace-Up Fashion SneakerSkechers Performance Women's Go Walk 4Dansko Women's Fynn Red Mary JaneSaucony Women's Grid Omni Walker Walking ShoeBrooks Women's Ariel 18 Running ShoesWolverine Men's W04821 Buccaneer BootPropet Men's Life Walker Strap SneakerOrthaheel Women's Action Walker ShoesVionic Women's Spark Minna Ballet FlatRyka Sky Walk Walking ShoeMerrell Men's Jungle Moc Leather Slip-On ShoeECCO Men's Helsinki Slip-OnGrasshoppers Women's Janey Ii SneakerASICS Men's Gel-Kayano 24 Running ShoeCobb Hill women's Petra-ch LoaferSkechers USA Men's Mariner Low BootTimberland PRO Men's Direct Attach Six-Inch Soft-Toe BootSkechers Performance Women's Go Walk 4 A.D.C. Vionic with Orthaheel Technology Men's Contest Active Lace UpBrooks Men's Beast 20New Balance Women's 1765 V2 Walking ShoeKEEN Utility Men's Flint Low Steel Toe Work ShoeKEEN Men's Targhee II Hiking ShoeDansko Women's Patti Clog Ahnu Women's Taraval-WDansko Men's WyattDrew Shoe Men's Tucson BootNew Balance Men's 1080 V3 Running ShoeKEEN Women's Targhee II Outdoor ShoeSalomon Men's Quest Prime GTX Backpacking BootThorogood 804-6293 Men's Crosstrex Series Merrell Men's Encore Gust Slip-On ShoeKEEN Utility Men's PTC Dress Oxford Work ShoeASICS Men's GEL-Lyte33 Running ShoeSaucony Women's Cohesion 10 Running ShoeHow We Selected These Work Shoes For Flat Feet Arch SupportCushioningFAQs About Work Shoes For Flat FeetIf I'm on my feet all day, which shoes should I wear for flat feet?  Which types of shoes are good for flat feet?What shoes should I wear for flat feet?Conclusion

The Best Work Shoes for Flat Feet

KEEN Utility Men’s Atlanta Cool Steel Toe Work Shoe

Built to last, the KEEN Utility Men’s Atlanta Cool Steel Toe Work Shoe combines the comfort of a hiking boot with a safety work shoe. With a waterproof leather and mesh upper, the Atlanta can stand up to the messiest work conditions. The rubber outsole has excellent traction, and it is slip-resistant and oil-resistant. A defined 1.25” heel combined with the dual-density EVA memory foam in the midsole and the removable insole absorbs impact as you walk. This protection keeps you more comfortable for long days on your feet. As with most safety work shoes, the Atlanta’s steel toe meets ASTM standards, keeping your toes safe from falling objects.

They are the ideal shoe for working on construction sites, industrial sites, or any other environment that require safety footwear. KEEN Utility designed the Men’s Atlanta Cool Steel Toe Work Shoe for ultimate comfort. An interior mesh liner breathes well in warmer weather, and your feet will stay dry throughout the day. A roomy toe box gives you enough wiggle so that your toes don’t feel cramped. The back of the shoe fits snugly against your heel, eliminating rubbing and blistering. These shoes are so comfortable that they feel like you are wearing tennis shoes.

There is a mild-break in period with the Atlanta which shouldn’t last more than a week if you wear them consistently. The shoe is a bit heavier than most low-rise shoes because of the steel toe protection. KEEN Utility’s unique lacing system, with elastic laces with an adjustable stopper, take some time to get used to if you are used to lace-up shoes. The Atlanta’s should last you about a year if you wear them, but they can fall apart sooner if you are rough on your shoes. The moderately-priced KEEN Utility Men’s Atlanta is our pick for the best men’s work shoe for flat feet because of their protection and comfort.

Pros

  • Our pick for the best men’s work shoe for flat feet
  • Ideal for construction sites, industrial sites, or any other environment that require safety footwear
  • Moderately priced
  • Steel toe meets ASTM standards
  • Rubber outsole is oil-resistant and slip-resistant; great traction
  • Waterproof leather and mesh upper
  • 25” heel, dual-density EVA foam in the midsole and removable insole for shock absorption
  • Interior mesh liner breathes well in warmer weather
  • Snug heel fit and roomy toe box for better, more comfortable fit

Cons

  • Heavy
  • Mild break-in period
  • Elastic bungee lacing system takes some time to get used to
  • Last about a year (depending on how rough you are on your shoes)

Timberland PRO Women’s Powertrain Sport Alloy Toe SD+ Industrial and Construction Shoe

Women in construction jobs often have trouble finding comfortable safety shoes, especially if they have flat feet. Timberland is one of the leading manufacturers in durable and stylish work footwear. The Timberland PRO Women’s Powertrain Sport Alloy Toe SD+ Industrial and Construction shoe is a comfortable and sturdy shoe suitable on a variety of construction sites. Its alloy safety toe is lighter than a steel toe, but it offers equal protection. It passes ASTM standards, along with the shoe’s electrical hazard protection. The upper also includes a toe bumper for even more protection for the most sensitive part of your feet.

With a nylon textile upper, the Powertrain is breathable in any climate, keeping your feet comfortable. The padded interior of the shoe supports the whole foot, and the roomy toe box prevents blistering. The Timberland Women’s Powertrain has a synthetic rubber outsole that is slip-resistant and oil-resistant, and it has excellent traction. This dual-density outsole also has Anti-Fatigue technology to eliminate soreness during long hours on your feet. With a fiberglass shank in the midsole, the Timberland PRO Women’s Powertrain has shock-absorption for uneven terrain. The shank also keeps the midsole bendable so that it will move with you.

There is a mild break-in period with the Powertrain, but this shouldn’t last longer than a week or so. They do run large and wide, so you should invest in a size down to get the right fit. The only real downside of the Timberland PRO Powertrain is that it isn’t waterproof. They are water-resistant, so they are okay to wear during rainy days. With consistent use, the shoe will wear down in about a year. However, unlike other work shoes, the inside will break down before the exterior. With so many benefits and few drawbacks, the moderately-priced Timberland PRO Women’s Powertrain Sport Alloy Toe SD+ Industrial and Construction Shoe is our pick for the best women’s work shoe for flat feet.

Pros

  • Our pick for the best women’s work shoe for flat feet
  • Moderately priced
  • Synthetic rubber outsole is slip-resistant, oil-resistant, has great traction
  • Alloy safety toe; lighter than steel toe with just as much protection
  • Passes ASTM standards – alloy safety toe and electrical hazard protection
  • Nylon textile upper with rubber toe bumper
  • Dual-density outsole has Anti-Fatigue technology to eliminate sore feet
  • Fiberglass shank in midsole for shock absorption and bendability
  • Ideal for warehouse or manufacturing work, trucking, delivery
  • Made for comfort: a breathable shoe with a roomy toe bed and padded interior

Cons

  • Not waterproof
  • Run large and wide
  • Mild break-in period
  • Inside wears down in about a year of consistent wear

Skechers Felton Work Shoe

Even when you don’t work in construction or hard labor professions, finding a good pair of work shoes can be difficult. When you have flat feet, you need shoes that are not only durable enough for your job, but you also need enough comfort for your flat feet. Skechers is a popular footwear company that manufactures a line of work shoes and boots for customers in several professions. The Skechers Felton Work Shoe is ideal for those in food service, customer service, or labor jobs without the demands of a safety toe shoe.

With a slip-resistant and oil-resistant synthetic outsole, the Felton has a 1” platform and a 1.25” heel for shock absorption for long days of walking and standing on your feet. The shoe follows all OSHA regulations, and it is incredibly comfortable. With reinforced stitching in the synthetic leather upper, Feltons last longer than other work shoes. Since comfort is key during long work days, this shoe has a padded tongue and collar, with a fabric lining along the interior. The shock-absorbent midsole and memory foam heel diffuse impact to prevent foot fatigue during long stretches of standing and walking.

If you have certain needs for your feet, the insole is removable for your own custom insert. Due to the leather upper and fabric interior, the shoes do not breathe as well as some other non-slip work shoes. There is a mild break-in period for the leather upper to stretch. These shoes aren’t the quietest on the market, and they squeak on certain floor types, such as marble and tile. The Skechers Feltons run narrow, so you’ll have to order a size up from your standard size. They do fall apart within a year of use, but they are so budget-friendly that you can buy multiple pairs. The Skechers Felton Work Shoe is a great option for workers who walk and stand for the majority of their work hours.

Pros

  • Comfortable, budget-friendly work shoe ideal for food service, customer service, or labor jobs that do not require safety-toe protection
  • Synthetic rubber outsole is slip-resistant and oil-resistant
  • 25” heel, 1” platform, and shock-absorbent midsole
  • Synthetic leather upper with reinforced stitching
  • Padded tongue and collar and fabric lining
  • Replaceable insole with memory foam heel
  • Follow OSHA regulations

Cons

  • fall apart within 6-12 months of consistent use
  • Mild breaking-in period for synthetic upper to stretch
  • Don’t breathe well
  • Squeak on some hard floors (marble, tile, etc.)
  • Run narrow

Timberland PRO Men’s 40008 Mudsill Low Steel Toe Shoe

When it comes to safety work footwear, Timberland is a leader in the market. Construction workers and mechanics wear Timberlands for their long-lasting design and comfort. The Timberland PRO Men’s 40008 Mudsill Low Steel Toe Shoe is a moderately-priced and lightweight work shoe with all of the protection and support that you need for your flat feet. A thick rubber outsole is slip-resistant and oil-resistant. The Mudsill’s steel toe and electrical hazard protection meet ASTM standards. A water-resistant leather upper protects the tops of your feet from lacerations or other injuries, and an antimicrobial mesh lining on the interior keeps your feet dry and comfortable.

The reason why construction workers and other laborers return to Timberlands over and over again is that they are extremely comfortable. Timberlands have a 24/7 PRO Comfort Suspension System to reduce foot fatigue. A nylon shank shock-diffusion plate absorbs impact from walking, keeping pressure off of the heel and ball of your foot. An EVA memory foam midsole and an Ortholite polyurethane insole mold to the shape of your feet. This makes standing and walking on uneven terrains more comfortable. If you have foot conditions that require an orthotic or another specialized insert, the insole is removable.

The best feature of the Timberland Mudsill is that there is no break-in period: you can wear them as soon as you get them. These shoes do run small and narrow, so it is best to order a full size up from your regular footwear. After about a year of consistent use, the back heel area wears down. The lace hooks are also flimsy, so use care when lacing your shoes. Overall, the Timberland PRO Men’s 40008 Mudsill Low Steel Toe Shoe is a great investment for a quality, comfortable safety work shoe.

Pros

  • Moderately-priced lightweight work shoe
  • Water-resistant leather upper
  • Slip-resistant and oil-resistant rubber outsole
  • Steel toe and electrical hazard protection meets ASTM standards
  • Antimicrobial mesh lining to keep feet dry and comfortable
  • 24/7 PRO Comfort Suspension system reduces foot fatigue
  • Shock-absorbent nylon shank
  • EVA memory foam midsole and removable Ortholite polyurethane insole for comfortable all-day wear
  • No break-in period

Cons

  • Flimsy lace hooks
  • Back-heel support wears down
  • Run small and narrow

Skechers For Work Men’s Flex Advantage Slip-Resistant Mcallen Slip-On Shoe

In another quality model by Skechers, the Skechers for Work Men’s Flex Advantage Slip-Resistant Mcallen Slip-On Shoe matches the protection of a work shoe with the convenience of a slip-on. This budget-friendly slip-resistant work shoe is ideal for jobs that involve standing and walking all day, including security and supervisory work. The fabric upper has reinforced stitching for durability, with side elastic gorings for a quick slip-on. The 1.25” heel is shock-absorbent, taking pressure off of your heel as you walk. Made for comfort, the Flex Advantage has a memory foam insole, a padded collar, and an interior fabric lining. The insole is removable if you need an insert with more support.

Since the fabric upper is so stretchy, it may alter the size of the shoe after the short break-in period. It is also hard to clean, so the Flex Advantage isn’t ideal for professions where spills are a possibility. The back of the shoe is flimsy, breaking down in about a year with the repeated motion of slipping on and off. To help your shoes last longer, invest in a shoe horn. Although it doesn’t have safety-toe protection, the Skechers for Work Men’s Flex Advantage Slip-Resistant Mcallen Slip-on is a comfortable work shoe with enough support for people with flat feet.

Pros

  • Budget-friendly, lightweight non-safety work shoe
  • Slip-resistant synthetic rubber outsole with excellent traction
  • Elastic goring on sides for slip-on
  • Padded collar, interior fabric lining, and removable memory foam insole for comfort
  • 25” heel for shock absorption
  • Good for standing and walking jobs: security, nursing, supervisory work

Cons

  • No steel toe
  • Fabric upper with reinforced stitching is hard to clean
  • Stretchy upper can alter the size once broken in
  • Flimsy heel
  • Fall apart within a year of consistent use

Skechers Women’s Work Relaxed Fit Sure Track

The budget-friendly Skechers Women’s Work Relaxed Fit Sure Track is a comfortable work shoe designed for a woman’s foot. This relaxed fit slip-on work shoe has a water-resistant leather upper that is easy to clean, with protective overlays over the heel and toe. The synthetic rubber outsole has excellent traction, and electrical hazard protection passes ASTM standards.  If you walk long distances, you’ll love the shock-absorbent FlexSole midsole that diffuses impact and moves with your natural stride. A roomy toe box protects your toes from blistering, and a toe bumper prevents accidental injury if you stub your toe against a hard surface. Since these shoes have no break-in period, workers in retail, medical, food service, and office professions favor them. They don’t have to spend weeks trying to break in new shoes while keeping up with their hectic schedules.

The Skechers Women’s Work Relaxed Fit Sure Track rides high on the foot close to the ankle to keep your feet more comfortable. There is only memory foam support in the heel, but the insoles are removable. We suggest ordering a ½ size up if you have a custom orthotic. These shoes do run large and wide, and they don’t breathe well. The synthetic soles also squeak on hard flooring. While the Skechers Women’s Work Relaxed Fit Sure Track has a few drawbacks, their benefits make them one of the best budget-friendly options on the market today.

Pros

  • Budget-friendly relaxed fit slip-on work shoe
  • Water-resistant leather upper is easy to clean
  • Protective leather overlays over toe and heel
  • Synthetic rubber outsole with excellent traction
  • Passes ASTM standards for electrical hazards
  • Removable insoles; order ½ size up to accommodate replacement orthotics
  • Shock-absorbent FlexSole midsole
  • Roomy toe box with toe bumper
  • No break-in period
  • Ride high on foot for more comfortable wear
  • Great for retail, hospital work, food service, office work

Cons

  • Memory foam for insole only located in the heel
  • Run large and wide
  • Don’t breathe well
  • Squeak on hard floors

Fila Women’s Memory Foam Workshift Cross Training Shoe

If you prefer a comfortable work shoe that looks and feels more like a tennis shoe, then the Fila Memory Foam Workshift Cross Training Shoe is the best option for you. With a slip-resistant rubber outsole with good traction, these shoes stand up to slippery work conditions. A memory foam insole contours to your whole foot, giving you great support for long days on your feet. The leather upper has synthetic overlays and small holes on the side to help your feet breathe.

Although Fila designed the Workshift for wide, flat feet, they do run narrow with a tight toe box. For the best comfort, order a size up from your normal athletic footwear. The insole isn’t removable, unlike other work shoes. If you need more support for your feet, order up to two sizes larger than your standard size, depending on the thickness of the insert that you prefer. With the thick rubber outsole and the leather upper, these shoes can feel heavy during the mild break-in period. The Fila Workshift holds up well, falling apart after about a year of constant wear. With the comfort of the memory foam insole and the breathable holes in the upper, you will probably wear them outside of the workplace. They are a great budget-friendly option for women who like the look of an athletic shoe with the protection of a great work shoe.

Pros

  • Budget-friendly work shoe with the look and feel of an athletic shoe
  • Slip-resistant rubber outsole with excellent traction
  • Leather upper with synthetic overlays
  • Memory foam insole
  • Small holes on the center side to help your feet breathe
  • Great for wide, flat feet

Cons

  • Feel heavy during the mild break-in period
  • Run narrow with tight toe box; order a size up for comfort
  • Insole not removable; order size up for custom orthotics
  • Fall apart within a year of use

KEEN Utility Women’s Flint Low Work Shoe

KEEN Utility is a trusted name in safety work footwear, creating comfortable and durable shoes for the most intense work environments. As one of the most comfortable safety work shoes for women on the market, the KEEN Utility Women’s Flint Low Work Shoe has all of the protection that you need with extra support for your feet. The oil-resistant and slip-resistant rubber outsole is suitable for uneven terrains, and a contoured heel keeps you safe when climbing ladders. This ASTM-certified steel toe work shoe has a waterproof 100% Nubuck leather upper and a moisture-wicking interior to keep your feet completely dry all day.

For women with flat feet, extra support is essential in your shoes. The KEEN Utility Flint has a compression molded, dual density EVA memory foam midsole with a torsional stability shank. This reduces stress on the heel and ball of your foot. The insole also has EVA memory foam for more comfort on the bottoms of your feet. Although the Flint has great support, they don’t have enough cushion if you walk on cement all day. These shoes do run small, so you’ll have to invest in a larger size.

Unfortunately, these shoes don’t breathe as well as other work shoes, so wearing thinner socks will help keep your feet from overheating. Since they are a steel-toe shoe, they can feel heavy during the first few wears. There is a mild-break in period to stretch the leather, but this shouldn’t last more than a week of continuous wear. With a moderate price tag, the KEEN Utility Women’s Flint is an investment worth making for a comfortable and protective work shoe.

Pros

  • Moderately-priced, extremely comfortable women’s safety work shoe
  • Oil-resistant and slip-resistant rubber outsole
  • Waterproof 100% Nubuck leather upper
  • Steel toe meets ASTM standards
  • Removable dual-density EVA memory foam insole
  • Compression molded, dual-density EVA foam midsole with torsional stability shank for extra support
  • Contoured heel for climbing ladders
  • The moisture-wicking interior keeps your feet dry

Cons

  • Run small
  • Break-in period
  • Feel heavy
  • Don’t breathe
  • Not comfortable enough for walking on cement

Orthofeet Women’s Sneakers

Orthofeet’s Women’s Sneakers are the best of the best when it comes to extended use and pain relief.  They feature extensive cushioning and are meant to be used by people with feet issues like plantar fasciitis.   

The orthofeet have been designed by podiatrists to be therapeutic and comfortable, so we have no reservations recommending them.  Just make sure you size them properly and select the style you feel most happy with.   

Gravity Defyer Proven Pain Relief Men’s G-Defy Mighty Walk

If being flat-footed is causing you any pain at all theGravity Defyer Proven Pain Relief Men’s G-Defy Mighty Walk is a good first start.  A good shoe won’t fix all of your problems, but the shock absorption technology that the G-Defy provides will help.

You can replace the insoles of this shoe easily, allowing you to equip them with your own insole support systems.  What makes this shoe different is the explicit focus on comfort and pain reduction.  It also comes with a good amount of wiggle room in the toes.  

Skechers Work Sure Track

Skechers for Work Women’s Sure Track Trickel Slip Resistant Work Shoe are a walking and standing shoe with plenty of heel support.  This pair from skechers has thousands of five-star reviews on Amazon but may still have some problems.

The insoles are not removable, so you won’t be able to easily replace them with arch-supporting soles.  The shoe is slip-resistant, but not slip-proof, you’ll still need to be careful as this is not a workboot.  Skechers is a reputable brand, so the build quality is assured, just make sure to get the right size when ordering online.  

Skechers Men’s Afterburn Memory-Foam Lace-up Sneaker

Skecher’s men’s After Burn is a standard looking sneaker but is on our list for its significant amount of arch bend.  The memory foam should contour to the wearer’s foot, providing customized support for the arch.  

As a #1 best seller on Amazon, this shoe has gotten a lot of traction online.  You can expect the After Burns to perform admirably for you whether you’re walking, running, or standing.  

Gravity Defyer Proven Pain Relief Women’s G-Defy Mighty Walk

The Gravity Defyer Proven Pain Relief Women’s G-Defy Mighty Walk take all the same benefits from the Gravity Defyer Proven Pain Relief Men’s G-Defy Mighty Walk and apply them to women.  

It comes with the same removable insoles and high-quality shock absorption systems as well as a suite of colors and styles to choose from.  The focus of these shoes is on the elimination of pain and irritation when walking, besides just being designed for comfort.  

New Balance Women’s 877 V1 

Like the other New Balance shoes on this list, theNew Balance Women’s 877 V1 is built for quality.  They’re designed specifically for walking and New Balance has propriety technology in the shoe to help keep your stride on point.  

The shoe also features special shock absorption technologies through a mix of compression resistance and extra cushioning.  There is also a small variety of different color and style options available for your choosing.  

ASICS Women’s GEL-Venture 5 

These ASICS Women’s Gel-Venture 5 Trail Running Shoes feature a Gel cushioning system placed in the heel and forefoot.  The goal of the Gel is similar to Nike’s air system, it is to absorb shock and reduce impact.  

The shoe has relatively high arches and comes in several styles and colors.  This is a running shoe, so depending on the nature of your work it may not be quite suitable.  

KEEN Utility Men’s Flint II Work Shoe 

The KEEN Utility Men’s Flint II Work Shoe are waterproof and slip resistant with a steel toe.  They feature compression resistant midsoles and electrical protection in case of contact with live wires.  

Keen is a respected brand for boots so expect quality.  The Flint IIs are meant to be lightweight weighing in at about 1.6 pounds, which is low for your average workboot.

Skechers Women’s D’Lites Memory Foam Lace-up Sneaker

Skechers Women’s D’Lites are equipped with extra cushioning and are designed for walking.  The large heel is meant to assist in shock absrobption while the mix of leather and synthetic materials provides flexibility. 

A note of caution, this shoe does not have removable soles, so if you rely on orthiotics then you may be better off elsewhere.   

KEEN Utility Men’s Detroit XT Waterproof Work Boot

As stated elsewhere on our list, Keen is a reputable boot brand.  TheKEEN Utility Men’s Detroit XT Work Boot are more expensive than some options, but the robust feature set makes it highly appealing.  

The boot is waterproof and sports a steel toe.  It uses a compression molded midsole, meaning it should provide a decent level of cushioning.  

Dr. Scholl’s Shoes Women’s Kimberly Work Shoe

Dr. Scholl’s Shoes Women’s Kimberly Work Shoe is built for comfort but can have issues in the quality department.  Some wearers have noted that they fall apart too quickly with consistent use.  

That being said, Dr. Scholl’s is a common shoe brand and this shoe is designed for work purposes.  It is slip resistant and features a gel insole.  

Slow Man’s Women’s Slip-on Walking Shoe

Slow Man’s Women’s Slip-On Walking Shoe These shoes feature an air cushion and rubber sole.  It has a 2 inch heel, which is large for the category, while still remaining a lightweight option.  

It comes in a few standard colors and styles and is very affordable for the category.  If you’re on a budget and just need a pair of shoes with a lot of cushioning, this is a good bet.  

Timberland PRO Men’s Bosshog 6″ Industrial Boot

The Timberland PRO Men’s Bosshog 6″ Industrial Boot sports a polyurethane sole system for shock absorption and a composite toe protector instead of the traditional steel.  

The Bosshog is waterproof and slip resistant as you might expect out of a work boot.  The things to be careful of are build quality and sole cushioning as the polyurethane system may not suit your needs.  

Skechers Men’s Cessnock Shoe

The Skechers Men’s Cessnock Shoe is built for the food service industry, it’s slip resistant and features a breathable mesh exterior.  As a Skechers product it can be expected to serve admirably for your purposes.  

The insole is made out of memory foam like many others on this list which can be either a feature or a problem depending on your needs.  They are also slip-on instead of laced which can be more comfortable at times.  

ASICS Men’s Gel-Kayano 26

The ASICS Men’s Gel-Kayano 26 are a more expensive choice in the running shoe category however they offer a full set of fancy technological features over other shoes.  They are built for people with low arches and have a lot of thought put into their running performance.  

If your work requires constant walking/running then this may be a good choice.  It also comes in a plethora of styles and colors for whatever your tastes may be.  

 

Brooks Men’s Beast 18

The Brooks Men’s Beast 18 are a reliable pair of shoes from a lesser known brand.  They tend to be smaller than expected, so buyers beware.  The shoe has been engineered to be stable for those who overpronate when walking and features proprietary technologies to ensure comfort.  

They are somewhat heavier than some other walking shoes, weighing in at a hefty 2 pounds.  

Caterpillar Men’s Diagnostic  Boot

The Caterpillar Men’s Diagnostic Boot comes with extended ankle support typical of this style of boot.  The sole is a mix of EVA foam and gel but is entirely removable to fit your orthotic needs. 

As a work boot, this offering from Caterpillar is steel toed and waterproof.  Another beneficial component is the thermal insulation that comes built in with the boot which will help on cold worksites.  

 

Skechers Women’s Shape Ups S2 Lite Lace-Up Fashion Sneaker

The Skechers Women’s Shape Ups S2 Lite Lace-Up Fashion Sneaker come with extra cushioning and support in the midsection of the shoe.  The idea behind this pair of shoes is that the extra padding will increase your stability as you work.  

The Shape Ups S2 do not come in many colors or styles which is a consideration for anyone not happy with the pink on black scheme.  The extra padding on the shoe is also meant to help with plantar fasciitis.  

 

Skechers Performance Women’s Go Walk 4

The Skechers Performance Women’s Go Walk 4 Exceed Walking Shoe have a breathable design and extra midsole padding.  The soles are made of synthetic materials instead of rubber and Skechers has implemented a few of their own proprietary technologies to improve shock absorption and stability as well.  

As a walking shoe, you may run into trouble if your work requires you to be moving at a fast clip on a consistent basis.  The shoes also feature a suite of different colors and styles for the wearer to choose from.  

 

Dansko Women’s Fynn Red Mary Jane

For those needing a business shoe, the Dansko Women’s Fynn Red Mary Jane should help provide the type of arch support necessary to stand and walk for those with flat feet.  

The sole is made of a synthetic material instead of the more common rubber and the shoe comes in both red and black.  

Saucony Women’s Grid Omni Walker Walking Shoe

The Saucony Women’s Grid Omni Walker Walking Shoe is one of the bulkier options on our list.  The significant heel provides cushioning while walking while the high arch gives you support in that pivotal midsection of the foot.  

The shoe comes in both White and Black and features an asymmetrical sole for a better fit.  A potential concern is the lack of breathability in this shoe, good for the winter but bad for the summer.  

 

Brooks Women’s Ariel 18 Running Shoes

The Brooks Women’s Ariel 18 Running Shoes are the counterpart to the Brooks Beast 18s elsewhere on this list.  The shoe has been engineered with extra cushioning and comfort in mind.

The midsole and heel sport a proprietary style of sole which Brooks reports offers 25% more cushioning.  What this 25% actually is is not clear.  But regardless this shoe gives a significant amount of padding and arch support while still being fairly durable.  

Wolverine Men’s W04821 Buccaneer Boot

The Wolverine Men’s W04821 Buccaneer Boot, similar to other boots on this list, features a compression molded sole.  As a boot, the high ankle support is always useful for support while walking.

In the marketing for the boot, they say that the boot is constructed using something called Wolverine Contour Welt Construction.  This along with a battery of other patented technologies on the part of Wolverine makes this pair of boots rather appealing. 

Propet Men’s Life Walker Strap Sneaker

Velcro is just one of those things that improves a situation.  The Propet Men’s Life Walker Strap Sneaker use velcro as both the fastening system and the fashioning system.  

These shoes feature a contoured heel and removable soles for your own orthotics.  The EVA midsole also helps with arch support.  It comes in limited styles and colors, mostly just shades of white and black.  

Orthaheel Women’s Action Walker Shoes

The Orthaheel Women’s Action Walker Shoes white/pink size 11 is specifically designed for those fringe cases of severe pain and problems walking.  It features a suite of technologies and components to combat difficulties walking and standing.  

The shoe comes in several styles and colors and features a removable insole.  There is also a surprising amount of breathability through the mesh materials on the top of the shoe.  

 

Vionic Women’s Spark Minna Ballet Flat

The Vionic Women’s Spark Minna Ballet Flat at first glance does not seem to be a shoe with much support or cushioning.  However, Vionic puts a great emphasis on the concealed orthotic support that their shoes provide.  

Product reviews suggest that this pair, more than most, provides the necessary support for people to get through their workday.  it doesn’t hurt that the shoe also comes in a wide array of styles and colors.  

 

Ryka Sky Walk Walking Shoe

The RYKA SKY WALK Walking Shoe is a nifty piece of footwear.  It comes with memory foam soles for customized support and the wearer has their choice in color and style.  

The shoe is built for traction and comfort, but if you don’t like the soles you can remove those in favor of your own.  Ryka has designed these with women in mind, as opposed to other shoes that can have somewhat androgynous designs.  

Merrell Men’s Jungle Moc Leather Slip-On Shoe

The Merrell Men’s Jungle Moc Leather Slip-On Shoe is a fully leather shoe with shock absorption placed in the heel.  The slip-on style removes some of the fuss related to laced shoes, and the removable soles allows you to customize them for your own purposes.  

It only comes in a few colors and styles and the treads on the bottom of the shoe may not be conducive for all types of work.  The Merrell brand is known for high build quality and how long their shoes last, but there is some skepticism on those fronts as of late.  

 

ECCO Men’s Helsinki Slip-On

The ECCO Men’s Helsinki Slip-On is a leather shoe that comes with a removable insole.  The slip-on design and fashionable look makes this a prime choice for business casual dress.  

The thick heel could help with shock absorption, but you’ll need to worry about the specifics of your own gait to make sure that the heel doesn’t get in the way.  A concern would be whether or not it offers sufficient midsole support on its own, or if  you’d require inserts.  

 

Grasshoppers Women’s Janey Ii Sneaker

The Grasshoppers Women’s Janey Ii Sneaker is an affordable walking shoe.  The light treading and the simplistic design may not fair well under harsh work environments.  

Fortunately, the shoe comes in a wide variety of colors and styles, so even the picky among you will find something they prefer.  The sole is made of rubber, and there is not much mentioned about the arch support of the shoe.  

If you’ve got significant pain when walking, we cannot recommend this shoe.  

 

ASICS Men’s Gel-Kayano 24 Running Shoe

The ASICS Men’s Gel-Kayano 24 Running Shoe like it’s younger brother the Kayano 26 written on above, is a quality shoe for enthusiast runners.  ASICS offers high build quality and a suite of technological innovation in their shoes, and the Kayano 24 is no exception.

The shoe comes with ASICS personal brand of gel technology for its soles and some serious treads for stability when running.  Furthermore,the shoe comes in a suite of styles and colors.  

Cobb Hill women’s Petra-ch Loafer

These Cobb Hill women’s Petra-ch Loafers are comfortable little pieces of footwear that are good for light walking and a little running.  They come with some additional support in the heel, but little to speak of in the front or midsection of the shoe.  

Given the niche nature of this shoe, your mileage may vary depending on where and when you purchase them.  

 

Skechers USA Men’s Mariner Low Boot

The Skechers USA Men’s Mariner Low Boot is a work boot, but it lacks the same ankle support that other boots might offer.  The benefits of this particular shoe are its brand name, which will ensure quality, and the substantial treads.

This boot is missing any sort of steel reinforcement for the toes, but it does come in at a much more affordable price than many others on this list.  If you’re more price sensitive this may be the most appropriate option for your needs.  

 

Timberland PRO Men’s Direct Attach Six-Inch Soft-Toe Boot

The Timberland PRO Men’s Direct Attach Six-Inch Soft-Toe Boot is a tall horse for any cowboy.  The name infers a 6 inch height, but the specifications mark it out as 7 inches high.  This extra size comes from the large heel no doubt. 

Timberland is a respected brand in the boot category, and their shoes come with all the features expected in the category.  Note that there is a price premium attached to this shoe, but any good boot will be in the $100 range at least. 

 

Skechers Performance Women’s Go Walk 4 A.D.C. 

The Skechers Performance Women’s Go Walk 4 A.D.C. are yet another offering from the illustrious Skechers brand on this list.  The Women’s go walk 4s are the sequel to the women’s go walk 3 which were held in high esteem by customers for their durability and longevity.

The Women’s go walk 4s are lightweight and meant for continuous use.  They feature a high breathability design with their knit mesh material, but there has been some concern from customers that the shoes are not as durable as prior installments into this series of shoe.  

 

Vionic with Orthaheel Technology Men’s Contest Active Lace Up

The Vionic Orthaheel Men’s Contest Active Lace Up is designed to reduce pain and irritation in men with overpronation issues.  The EVA midsole helps with shock absorption and the lightweight materials are useful for those who stand on their feet all day.  

Vionic are experts in eliminating foot related pain and aches, so if that is a concern of yours then these may work for you.  

Brooks Men’s Beast 20

The Brooks Men’s Beast 20 like the Beast 18 elsewhere on this list comes with extra cushioning than you might expect in a run of the mill running shoe.  The breathable mesh improves airflow keeping your feet comfortable while the extra shock absorption in the heel makes movement less demanding.  

Brooks has engineered the Beast 20 to provide extra stability, so if your gait is irregular you may find that to be helpful.  The Beast 20 comes in a few different styles and colors.  

New Balance Women’s 1765 V2 Walking Shoe

The New Balance Women’s 1765 V2 Walking Shoe is an oddity on our list, as it has far less mesh than most other walking shoes.  The benefit of these shoes is their N2 internal cushioning, which is a proprietary technology from New Balance.

As a walking shoe these will serve you admirably, although it may be difficult to find a pair in an appropriate size as the selection is very limited.  

 

KEEN Utility Men’s Flint Low Steel Toe Work Shoe

The KEEN Utility Men’s Flint Low Steel Toe Work Shoe are the little brother to the Flint IIs we spoke about elsewhere on this list.  As more of a sneaker, they offer the breathability and lightweight materials that a boot doesn’t offer.

The treads should perform on par with a work boot, but if you’re hiking a lot, or are working in hot weather these may be preferable to a full 6 inch boot like the Flint IIs.  Keen as a brand offers high quality footwear, so you should expect durability and longevity.  

KEEN Men’s Targhee II Hiking Shoe

The KEEN Men’s Targhee II Hiking Shoe are great for outdoor work which requires a lot of walking or running.  As a hiking shoe they’re meant for all terrain use, which implies slip-resistance and tread quality.  

The shoe is waterproof and offers a great deal of arch support due to its contoured design. The midsole is made of compression molded EVA, which should provide a fair amount of cushion and comfort.  

Dansko Women’s Patti Clog 

The Dansko Women’s Patti Clog is made of waterproof leather and uses a proprietary technology to deal with any moisture that gets in.  The shoe features significant arch support with what the manufacturer calls a triple density footbed.  What this likely means is that it has an exceptional amount of cushioning in its midsole. 

The midsole is removable to support any orthotics you may use and the shoe comes in three colors.  As a walking shoe this will likely keep you comfortably on your feet for many hours at a time.  

Ahnu Women’s Taraval-W

The Ahnu Women’s Taraval-W come from a small brand with less experience than a New Balance or a Skechers, but the Taraval-W hiking shoes are nothing to ignore.  

The shoes are waterproof and meant for long sessions of standing and walking.  They are exceptional for long distance hiking and traveling.  We do recommend purchasing them through Amazon, as the return process elsewhere can be a bit tedious.  

Dansko Men’s Wyatt

The Dansko Men’s Wyatt is a solid day to day work shoe with great comfort and minimalist flair.  The footbed is removable in case you wanted to replace it with orthotics of your own and the treads are designed to be non-slip.  

Be warned of the heel collar and the Achilles notch on this shoe, it does not offer the same padding as some others, so blisters may arise.  

Drew Shoe Men’s Tucson Boot

The Drew Shoe Men’s Tucson Boot is a little more on the pricey side of things and it also has a very distinctive style but it may be the shoe you’re looking for.  

It’s got decent arch support and a lot of ankle support/cushioning.  While it looks steel-toed and is a boot, it does not have a steel tip, although it does have a steel shank.

New Balance Men’s 1080 V3 Running Shoe

These colorful New Balance Men’s 1080 V3 Running Shoe are quite the fashion statement.  They sport a fancy T-bone shank and N2 heel cushioning.  As an indoor work shoe they’ll perform well if you’re constantly on the move.  Although they likely won’t perform well in an environment where slips are common.  

Shock absorption is key for running shoes and this offering from New Balance does not fall short.  It also supports plenty of room for orthotic inserts if that is necessary for your foot type. 

 

KEEN Women’s Targhee II Outdoor Shoe

The KEEN Women’s Targhee II Outdoor Shoe is sister to the Men’s Targhee IIs and performs just as admirably.  Very comfortable, great for outdoor work and hiking.  

The shoe is waterproof and slip resistant with internal hydrophobic mesh lining, it’s really anti-water.  The compression molded EVA midsole should provide you enough arch support, but you may consider adding your own orthotic to improve your gait. 

Salomon Men’s Quest Prime GTX Backpacking Boot

The Salomon Men’s Quest Prime GTX Backpacking Boot is a particularly pricey boot.  But with this high cost comes high quality and a broad feature set.  The boot offers an EnergyCell molded midsoles for extra comfort and arch support.  

It also features molded OrthoLite sockliners.  One point of concern would be its durability which some wearers have reported as being poor, although this could easily be isolated incidents which aren’t indicative of anything.  

Thorogood 804-6293 Men’s Crosstrex Series 

The Thorogood 804-6293 Men’s Crosstrex Series are an excellent work shoe.  They’re waterproof and electrically resistant as well as slip resistant.  The composite toe guard is more comfortable than a traditional steel toe.

They feature a cushioned EVA midsole which should have room for orthotics if you so desire.  The polyurethane footbed is removable also if you would like to customize that aspect.  

Merrell Men’s Encore Gust Slip-On Shoe

The Merrell Men’s Encore Gust Slip-On Shoe is a comfortable slip on shoe for walking and excels due to its slip resistant treads.  The heel comes with an air cushion for shock absorption and it sports an OrthoLite footbed.   

Merrell as a brand is competent at creating good work shoes, and the Encore Gust is no exception.  The arch support is superb, but you may also add orthotics to further customize the shoes to your liking.  

KEEN Utility Men’s PTC Dress Oxford Work Shoe

The KEEN Utility Men’s PTC Dress Oxford Work Shoe is slip resistant and comfortable.  The memory foam insoles help customize the shoe to your foot while the stylish exterior keeps you looking suave.  

Keen has positioned these shoes as restaurant shoes, they’re meant to be worn by waiters and cooks who need dependable footwear to remain stable while they work.  However, these shoes will perform admirably for any indoor task or situation you may need them for.  

ASICS Men’s GEL-Lyte33 Running Shoe

The ASICS Men’s GEL-Lyte33 Running Shoe comes with ASICS top of the line Gel cushioning system in the heel which helps with shock absorption when running.  The EVA midsole provides arch support and the treads are designed for stability.  

The lightweight mesh material makes it great for running, but it works as a walking shoe too.  A potential problem with this pair of shoes is the limited variety of colors and styles it comes in.

Saucony Women’s Cohesion 10 Running Shoe

The Saucony Women’s Cohesion 10 Running Shoe is an affordable running shoe that comes in a plethora of color schemes and styles.  They feature a heel grid system that should add comfort and stability when running or walking.  

The midsole is designed for those with problems with underpronation, but they should suffice for those with flat feet as well.  

How We Selected These Work Shoes For Flat Feet 

Arch Support

For those with flat feet, arch support becomes key.  With the support system built into the shoe, you may experience greater levels of knee and lower back pain.  It’s necessary to focus on the natural arching of the foot, because without it you run the risk of exacerbating any pre-existing pain you may feel.  Extra width can also help support arches in some instances, but this is on a case by case basis.  

Cushioning

For people with flat feet cushioning becomes more important in the shoes they wear.  Especially if a flat footed person’s job requires them to stand and walk a lot, it is necessary to prevent excess shock from affecting their knees and lower back.  Flat footed people are prone to experiencing higher levels of knee and lower back pain already, so wearing shoes that mitigate that risk is prudent.  

FAQs About Work Shoes For Flat Feet

If I’m on my feet all day, which shoes should I wear for flat feet?  

Flat footed people need to wear shoes that provide the necessary levels of arch support and cushioning, especially if they are standing for extended periods of time.  Choosing an inappropriate shoe can lead to knee and lower back pain.  The category of shoe is not all that important, what you need to look out for are shoes without removable soles and those that don’t support orthotic inserts.  

Which types of shoes are good for flat feet?

Any type of shoe that can provide support for your arches and have adequate cushioning is generally best for people with flat feet.  It is important to get shoes that you’ll feel comfortable wearing for long periods of time, so durability and breathability are normally good considerations to have.  The category of shoe doesn’t matter too much, whether it’s running, walking, or hiking.  Although depending on your use of the shoe, your mileage may vary if you use your shoes for purposes they’re not meant for.  

What shoes should I wear for flat feet?

For people with flat feet it is good to find shoes that have space for orthotic inserts.  These inserts are used to balance out improper gaits and mitigate knee and lower back pain.  Finding shoes with space for those inserts can be tough, but there are many on this list which have that feature.  It is also important that the shoes give you the arch support and cushioning you need.  If your shoe does not provide adequate of either of those, then you’re liable to fee knee and lower back pain.  

Conclusion

There are many shoes out there that will work well with flat feet, it’s important to find one that also fits the rest of your needs too.  Of all the shoes on our list, a few stand out as great all-around shoes for a multitude of situations.  We think that many of the shoes on this list will perform admirably for you on the job, but these are some of our favorites.  

For males who work outdoors, we recommend the KEEN Targhee II Hiking Shoe.  They’re an outstanding pair of work shoes that are great for many uses, very flexible and very adaptable. 

For females who work outdoors, we recommend the same KEEN Women’s Targhee II Outdoor Shoe.  They’re just an outstanding shoe of upstanding quality.

For males who work indoors, we recommend the MERRELL Men’s Jungle Moc. They are a comfortable slip-on shoe with removable soles that should serve all indoor purposes while providing suitable cushioning and arch support.

For females who work indoors, we recommend the Skechers Performance Women’s Go Walk 4.  They’re an excellent mix of practical and comfortable and are designed for longevity.  

Resources:

“Flatfeet: Symptoms and Causes.” The Mayo Clinic. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/flatfeet/symptoms-causes/syc-20372604

“Flat Feet More Common Than You Might Think.” CBS Baltimore. June 2013. https://baltimore.cbslocal.com/2013/06/13/flat-feet-more-common-than-you-might-think/

Sources

  1. Flatfeet…, www.mayoclinic.org
  2. Flat Feet More Common Than You Might Think, baltimore.cbslocal.com