Get speed and support on stoney and muddy trails with our selection of the best trail running shoes for flat feet. If you’re planning to get involved in trail running, you’ll require footwear that can handle snow, rain, and rocky surfaces. But they should also be versatile enough for smooth pavements and use during warm weather.
If you’re planning on escaping to off-road trails, consider running shoes with reversed lugs to prevent any slips. They should also come with plenty of cushioning around the midsole to support flat feet. Let’s take a look at our top findings for all the support and comfort you need for vigorous workouts. If you are looking for a running shoe for regular surfaces we recommend checking out our article on Best Running Shoes for Flat Feet.
TOP 9 Best Trail Running Shoes for Flat Feet
Men’s Trail Running Shoes
Women’s Trail Running Shoes
What’s So Great About Trail Running Shoes?
Trail running shoes have many features that make them unique. They’re traditionally heavier and designed to support and protect your feet on rugged terrain and hard surfaces. This type of shoe has more aggressive tread patterns to defend your feet against rocks, sticks, and other materials. Finally, trail running shoes come with breathable materials, such as mesh, to prevent a build-up of hot air and sweat within the shoes.
What to Look for in Trail Running Shoes?
There are many factors to consider before buying your first pair of trail running shoes. First, consider the footwear’s tread pattern. This is important for running on muddy and wet conditions as well as hard surfaces, such as gravel. In particular, the deeper the lugs and the wider spaced they are, the more traction you’ll receive in mid. However, lugs measuring between 5 and 7mm in height can be uncomfortable when running on pavement or firm dirt. If you plan on running on gravel or rocky trails, search for the phrase, ‘sticky rubber’ within the outsole description. This rubber feature improves the grip of the shoes on rock.
Cushioning is another important feature when considering trail running shoes. Bear in mind the cushioning if you want to wear a shoe for trails and running on smooth pavements. In this case, you should opt for low levels of cushioning. Alternatively, when running far distances, you may require more cushioning to support and protect your feet for longer journeys. Also, more heavy-set runners who struggle with knee or joint pain prefer highly-cushioned footwear as they reduce the impact from pounding on the pavement.
Another top consideration is a waterproof feature. Waterproof shoes are important for wearing in rain and also allow you to wear them all-year-round. Also, trail running shoes that are waterproof come with waterproof membranes, which even though they’re labeled as ‘breathable’, they aren’t as cool to wear.
What are the Best Trail Running Shoes for Flat Feet?
There are many high-quality trail running shoes for flat feet. But if we could only recommend one pair, it’d be the Glove 5 shoes. The mesh upper allows air to penetrate through the fabric, preventing a build-up of sweat, so you can feel fresher for longer. Plus, the high-performance rubber sole makes the footwear durable and stable, and they feature environmentally-friendly materials.
Trail running can be a challenging activity, so you’ll need running shoes that can keep up with you. The Gel-Venture 7 running shoes feature an Ortholite X-40 sockliner with excellent moisture management and a high-level of breathability. Most importantly, the GEL technology in the rearfoot area provides shock absorption where you need it most. With this additional layer of cushioning underfoot, you can run up and down hills for miles without feeling the impact of the ground beneath your feet. This GEL technology also molds the shoes to your feet, providing a comfortable, long-lasting support. Finally, this footwear’s upper is crafted from synthetic leather while the internal heel counter gently helps your feet to retain their natural line of motion. As a result, you’re less likely to encounter any injuries.
1 Gel-Venture 7 Trail Running Shoes
These running shoes adapt to various surfaces easily. In particular, the aggressive grip on the underfoot provides obvious and penetrating traction on soft ground. This means you won’t have to struggle with slippery surfaces during your trail runs. You’ll appreciate the precise foothold that provides a close-to-foot and comfortable feel, preventing any accidental slips. These running shoes are lightweight, which allows you to tread lightly and keep up your pace without a heavy weight holding you back. They’re also highly cushioned, which not only provides ample comfort, but supports your midsoles, too—a great feature for preventing injuries. The Speedcross 4 shoes deliver a snug and custom foot-wrapping, cradling the foot from the midsole to the lacing system. This fit and level of support is exactly what you’ll need for trail running.
2 Speedcross 4 Trail Running Shoes
These rubber-soled trailing running shoes are built to last and stand with you throughout difficult terrain. A top feature of this footwear is the EVA midsole. This material improves bounce-back characteristics and decreases midsole breakdown. So you get peace of mind knowing that your shoes will be long-lasting while protecting your feet during tough activities. Also, the dual-density midsole system is positioned to enhance support and stability. This is great for those with flat feet or arches that often ache after strenuous activity. These trail running shoes are lightweight, too, helping to reduce the weight of the sole unit while retaining the structural integrity of the shoe. This means you can kiss goodbye to uncomfortable, heavy weights that weigh you down and put strain on your feet.
3 Gel-Kahana 8 Running Shoe
The best trail running shoes for flat feet should provide a smooth and comfortable ride. Fortunately, the New Balance V1 footwear has plenty to offer. They boast data-driven technology and trail-specific features that bring speed and traction to any route. So, you can wear these running shoes on mud and hard pavements, and up and down hills. The fresh midsole prevents a build-up of sweat and makes the footwear breathable. In fact, this fresh midsole also features plenty of cushioning to deliver an ultra-cushioned, lightweight ride while supporting flat feet. One single piece of foam provides a plush feel for every stride you take. Finally, the high tread count on the outsole makes these running shoes suitable for any terrain. Plus, the durable rubber outsole provides plenty of traction for both on and off-road surfaces.
4 Fresh Foam Crag Trail V1 Trail Running Shoe
Not all trail shoes for flat feet are supportive and comfortable. Fortunately, the Frequent pair of shoes by New Balance are. In fact, they’re designed for light trail running and come with a reversed lug outsole that optimized traction on both uphill and downhill slopes. Plus, they’re durable and reliable no matter the terrain. The close weave mesh upper keeps your feet dry and cool during vigorous physical activity, so you won’t ever fall behind. This mesh upper also keeps away dirt and debris, allowing you to remain focused on the adventure ahead. The shoe’s weight and breathable upper reduces friction for a comfortable fit and better performance, so you can always stay ahead of the competition. Also, the reversed lugs on the outsole provides traction for running uphill and downhill on all types of terrain with no implications.
5 Frequent Trail Running Shoes
These are one of the best trail runners for flat feet for many reasons. For example, the M-select fresh technology features antimicrobial agents that reduce shoe odors for a fresher feeling for long wear. Also, the hyperlock TPU film heel counter provides a lock-in, secure feel, allowing you to wear these trail running shoes for long periods at a time and up and down hills. Furthermore, the mesh upper allows air to penetrate the fabric for a cool, comfortable environment. Most importantly, this footwear has a barefoot shape with a glove-like fit that provides natural comfort with minimalist construction. Also, the zero drop from heel to toe provides a natural stride and allows you to wear them during vigorous physical activities. The shoe’s construction has an enhanced proprioception and stability during variable movement.
Trail running shoes for wide flat feet need to provide plenty of cushioning and support. Fortunately, the Cohesion 10 running shoes maximize comfort, support, and performance. This footwear boasts an enhanced flex in the forefoot, making them suitable for wide flat feet. Most significantly, they provide a supportive ride that can handle far and fast distances. The Cohesion 10 are versatile on hard surfaces and respond well in varied conditions, including in rain and on pavements. The shoe’s technology sits closer to the foot, delivering the necessary feedback you need for heel-to-toe transition. The sole unit of these running shoes provide plenty of responsiveness and don’t drain out your energy so you can focus on the challenges ahead. Finally, the midsole adds a large amount of support and provides excellent cushioning, making these running shoes responsive and rewarding for every challenge.
7 Cohesion 10 Running Shoe
These running shoes come with a mesh upper that allows air to penetrate the fabric for a cool, comfortable environment. Also, the M-Select Fresh technology features antimicrobial agents that reduce shoe odor for a fresher feeling for longer. These are the best trail shoes for flat feet for security purposes. In particular, the hyperlock TPU film heel counter provides a locked-in, secure feel. As a result, you can wear them for longer. The high-performance rubber sole makes these running shoes durable and stable, while the slip-resistant outsole provides confidence on your feet. Another great feature of these shoes is that they’re made from recycled materials, making them environmentally-friendly to purchase and wear.
Finally, these men’s and women’s trail running shoes for flat feet come with numerous top features. For example, the bootie construction provides a custom-like fit for comfort and stability. Also, the fresh foam innovative midsole is created from a single piece of foam that provides a plush, more natural ride, which is ideal for trail runs. In fact, you can wear these running shoes in a variety of conditions, thanks to the rubber outsole that makes them durable and versatile.
9 Fresh Foam Crag Trail V2 Trail Running Shoe
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