Best Pickleball Shoes For Flat Feet 2024 (Men & Women)

According to Dr. Nelya Lobkova, a Podiatrist in New York City, if you have flat feet, it’s best to choose stability-oriented footwear like shoes or sneakers. Whereas the pro pickleball players tell you to steer clear of walking shoes, running shoes, and cross-trainers. Most flat-feet-friendly walking and running sneakers are not suitable for pickleball’s side-to-side movements and quick stops and starts. 

We went through a rollercoaster of emotions, trying countless flat-feet-friendly shoes of all kinds while playing pickleball. And after months of testing, we found some that worked well for flat feet pickleball players. 

To make it easier for you, we have put together a guide to help you choose and understand the best pickleball shoes for flat feet. Additionally, you can find tips to reduce the pain you may experience in your flat feet. 

Let’s get into the guide for the best pickleball shoes for flat feet in 2023. We have added pickleball shoes suitable for both men and women. 

Comparison Of Top 10 Best Pickleball Shoes for flat feet

Best Pickleball Shoes For Flat Feet For Men 

The Top Stability Pickleball Shoe for Flat Feet is the ASICS Men’s Gel-Resolution 8 Tennis Shoes. It’s not because of the price, which is expensive, but due to the unmatched comfort the Flexion Fit Upper provides. Thanks to this, the shoe fits so snugly that it feels like a second skin. Also, it keeps your feet stable during those quick pickleball lateral moves. 

Most pickleball players with flat feet have trouble finding stability, but ASICS has cracked the code with their DYNAWRAP Technology. Our feet stayed right in the sweet spot and did not cause any strain on flat arches.

Furthermore, PGuard Toe Protector adds an extra layer of toughness to the front of the shoe. Keep in mind that its sizing is inconsistent, and our shoe pair fit wide feet, but the second pair of the same size was narrow. By testing numerous models, it’s safe to say that these run narrow and aren’t suitable for wide feet. 

Aside from that, the AHAR Plus Outsole is 50% tougher than standard ASICS High Abrasion Rubber. These shoes can handle intense pickleball games and are durable. Lastly, the Trusstic System Technology makes sure you get lightweight sneakers without compromising sturdy support.

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Furthermore, the no-sew material application is bliss as it eliminates any irritation points that could worsen flat foot pain. For wide-foot pickleball players, it fits, but the toe box is narrow, so we recommend Nike Men’s Air Monarch IV Cross Trainer. 

In addition to that, the 8mm drop addresses flat feet concerns. The heel-to-toe drop promotes a more natural alignment of the foot. This approximately 8mm drop allows flat-footed players to experience a smoother transition from heel strike to toe-off. One aspect where it falls a bit short is the perception of its price-quality balance. Some users may find the shoe’s cost to be on the higher side regarding the intermediate quality it offers.

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Being a pickleball enthusiast with flat feet, finding lightness is challenging, but not with the New Balance Men’s 806 V1. Thanks to the precision-engineered Fresh Foam midsole cushioning, these shoes offer excellent support while remaining lightweight. By wearing these lightweight shoes, they ease the strain and pressure on flat arches. With each step, the cushioning absorbs shock and reduces discomfort. But you have to know these lack cushioning when compared to others.

To contribute to lightness, the soles are made to be thin, which is not for outdoors. Aside from that, there is a version for women, which is also a great pick as a Superior Lightweight Pickleball Shoe for Flat Feet. 

Beyond its lightweight advantage, it comes with a breathable Hyposkin upper. We found the synthetic/mesh upper was easy to clean, and it kept our feet cool. They don’t require extra maintenance and stay aesthetically pleasing for long. It may be breathable but we felt that it was tight around the toe area initially. 

For indoor pickleball courts, the no-sew overlays make it durable. These shoes can handle the demanding nature of indoor pickleball matches. Lastly, the slip-resistant outsole ensures superior traction on various surfaces. While testing, we felt that the outsole provides a reliable grip for pickleball but not on other outdoor court surfaces.

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When looking to deal with flat arch support is important; ASICS Men’s Gel-Challenger 12 serves best. The secret lies in the SOLYTE midsole foam, which not only gives you superb cushioning but also keeps the shoes surprisingly light. We liked how consistent the arch support stays during those long matches. We tested the Women’s version as well and found it suitable for women pickleball players with flat feet.

Unlike New Balance Men’s 806 V1, these are cushioned as well as light. The Rearfoot and Forefoot GEL Technology Cushioning System makes this performance possible. It absorbs shock during impact and toe-off without causing any strain on flat feet. 

To promote ventilation, it comes with a removable OrthoLite sock liner. Not only does it add bounce to each step, but your feet stay dry as well. Plus, it allows the natural flow of your foot as you move quickly side-to-side. With the AHAR Plus Outsole, lateral movements are effortless to make. Also, ASICS uses its TRUSSTIC SYSTEM technology in this shoe as well. As frequent pickleball players, the durability is questionable as we noticed some wear and tear sooner than we expected. But looking at the price and the level of comfort, these are worth it.

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One of the best shoes for frequent pickleball players is the Nike Air Monarch IV. The shoe’s thoughtful construction prioritizes the comfort and protection of flat feet. Its shaft measures low-top from the arch, which provides ample support. Durability is a crucial aspect for frequent players. Their high-quality leather upper makes them perfect in that regard without compromising on breathability. 

Unlike others, these also cater to individuals with wide feet. Finding well-fitting shoes can be challenging for those with wider feet, but you can rest easy with these trainers. These shoes are comfortable because of the lightweight foam in the midsole and the full-length Air-Sole unit. 

They give great cushioning that absorbs impact which makes them perfect for professional pickleball players with flat feet. Additionally, the solid rubber outsole gives amazing traction suitable indoors and outdoors. However, during footwork, we heard squeaky noises while wearing them. 

But, it’s essential to remember that this issue doesn’t affect the performance, and it diminishes over time as the shoes break in. Lastly, it comes in various styles and colors to appease your fashion sense. You can wear these on a daily basis aside from pickleball as they are made to last and come with a stylish look.

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Best Pickleball Shoes For Flat Feet For Women

Best pickleball shoes women are the ultimate solution for female players with flat feet. The following shoes were tested by our flat-foot female players. 

For women, our first pick is the Prince T22 Women’s Shoes, which comes with a breathable synthetic upper. We liked the incorporation of mesh panels that kept our feet cool during intense pickleball matches. Additionally, the herringbone tread patterned PRC 1000 durable outsole compound offers exceptional grip. Whether we played on an indoor or outdoor court, the stability was unmatched. To ensure confidence, these shoes come with a six-month outsole durability guarantee.

Another thing is the combination of an EVA Midsole with a ShockEraser heel insert and a SoftSpring PU forefoot insert. 

Thanks to this well-designed feature, it feels like you’re walking on clouds. The cushioning and shock absorption also ease pressure on the arches and joints. So, this shoe is good for flat feet and knees as well. But, these shoes may not be suitable for players who prefer lightweight footwear, as they have a slight heaviness to them.

Women pickleball players with wide and broad feet sizes will find this well-fitting. You get a roomy toe box for optional comfort. However, we found that the online sizing may not always be accurate. To overcome this inconvenience, it’s recommended to visit a physical store and try the shoes in person. That way, you can ensure the best fit and comfort for your feet. Once it fits, it works great for your flat feet and knees.

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To get agility with flat feet while playing pickleball, we recommend ADIDAS Women’s Grand Court 2.0 Tennis Shoe. The standout feature of these shoes is the cloud foam midsole that offers comfort and superior cushioning. With our flat feet, foot fatigue and pain are common, but these relieve the pain by absorbing impact on feet. To get agility with flat feet while playing pickleball, we recommend ADIDAS Women’s Grand Court 2.0 Tennis Shoe. The standout feature of these shoes is the cloud foam midsole that offers comfort and superior cushioning.

With our flat feet, foot fatigue and pain are common, but these relieve the pain by absorbing impact on feet. We did not encounter any slips while making quick lateral moves or chasing down tough dinks. But while playing outdoors, we noticed that these shoes tend to get dirty quickly and look tacky. As they are hard to clean, these might not be for you if you prefer being stylish without extra maintenance.

Lastly, the textile lining feels soft and pleasant during intense matches. This pickleball shoe is designed to provide comfort through pickleball rallies. To get this comfort, you first have to break into shoes as they are initially stiff. With consistent wear, they mold to your feet and are worth the wait for a custom fit.

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The most Supportive Pickleball Shoe for Overpronation, according to our testing, is the New Balance 411 V1 shoe. Even as a walking shoe, the rubber sole provides a grip suitable for pickleball. It’s designed to reduce the risk of slips or falls, especially if you have flat feet. Just like ADIDAS Grand Court 2.0, it comes with a soft lining and cushioned insoles, but these are easier to maintain. A standout feature for flat-footed pickleball players is their lightweight leather design. We were surprised how these shoes remain breathable despite being made with leather.

The mesh material keeps your feet cool and comfortable during walking and pickleball matches. You can wear these every day as they look stylish and don’t get dirty easily. Some potential drawbacks are the initial stiffness and sizing issues. You might experience a brief break-in period before the shoes adapt to the shape of their feet. Be patient and enjoy their comfortable support for countless hours on the court or for your everyday walks. Keep in mind to size half up while getting these so that they fit perfectly. 

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The New Balance Women’s 796 V2 Hard Court Tennis Shoe is a game changer for women with wide, flat feet looking for breathable options. Firstly, the REVlite midsole and mesh upper are both breathable and lightweight yet supportive too. While playing pickleball, we found these shoes responsive, and they absorb all impact while jumping or lateral movements. Secondly, the plush feeling makes you forget all the fatigue or flat foot pain. Just like other pickleball shoes, these come with rubber soles for grip on the court. Thirdly, in terms of durability, the NDure upper technology is included.

They’re built to withstand intense pickleball sessions, and even after several months of playing pickleball, we didn’t see much wear and tear. Additionally, the no-sew construction of the upper makes these shoes look modern. We liked the blister-free experience while wearing these, but the heel is quite narrow. As most women have narrow heels, this feature isn’t a dealbreaker unless you are overweight. In that case, we recommend sizing up for perfect fitting. 

For those who need extra support, the TPU overlay feature is also added. You’ll feel more stable during all those quick side-to-side moves. Overall, New Balance has your back with its wide version of these shoes, specially designed for different foot shapes.

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If you want a flat-feet-friendly option that won’t break the bank, we recommend the FitVille Women’s Wide Width Court Shoes. Let’s start with the upper part of these shoes which is a mix of trendy mesh and soft microfiber material. One thing that sets them apart from others is the anti-odor tech that reduces the chances of smelly, flat feet after hours on the court. Furthermore, they’ve got honeycomb insoles with Ortholite material which gives both cushioning and support.

We did not feel any pain in our feet after wearing these all day for pickleball and other activities. So, you get adequate arch support for flat feet, but it also keeps plantar fasciitis at bay. Due to our first pair, we wanted another one due to limited durability, but the sizing seemed off. So, we recommend trying them on or contacting the manufacturer for sizing confirmation before buying.

Moving onto outsoles, these are made from dual-density EVA material and anti-torsion TPU rubber. When it comes to agility, the outsoles combined with non-slip design work wonders. However, when it comes to durability, they seem lacking. But if you mostly play indoors or on well-kept surfaces, you’re good to go for a long time. Lastly, male pickleball players with flat feet can also try their men’s version. 

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Understanding Pickleball Shoes For Flat Feet

What are flat feet?

Flat feet, also known as fallen arches, a common foot conditions. The arch of the foot collapses and comes into near-complete or complete contact with the ground when standing. Instead of having a distinct upward curve in the middle of the foot, individuals with flat feet have flatter soles.

Having flat feet is quite common, and there’s no need to worry too much about it. It can be caused by genetics, weak arch development, or even acquired over time due to wear and tear. So, if you’ve been wondering why your feet feel so connected to the ground, chances are you have flat feet. The good news is that having flat feet doesn’t prevent you from playing pickleball or other activities.

Key features to consider in pickleball shoes for flat feet:

Now that you understand what flat feet are let’s explore the essential features you should be on the lookout for when searching for the perfect pair of pickleball shoes that cater to your flat-footed needs:

• Arch Support and Stability:

Since flat feet lack the natural arch, having proper arch support in your pickleball shoes is crucial. Look for shoes with firm arch support to keep your feet comfortable and stable during those intense games. This feature helps to maintain proper alignment and reduce strain or discomfort on the feet.

• Cushioning:

Opt for pickleball shoes that come with ample cushioning, whether you have flat feet or not. Cushioning is needed for shock absorption. Flat feet can be more susceptible to impact-related issues, such as joint pain and fatigue. They absorb shock and reduce the impact on your feet, which, in return, provides much-needed relief during intense games.

• Motion Control:

Overpronation, where the foot rolls inward excessively, is a common concern for flat-footed individuals. Choosing shoes with effective motion control features can help counteract overpronation, promoting a more natural gait and preventing injuries. Check for shoes that promote natural foot movement, as good motion control prevents overpronation. 

• Support for lateral movements:

Flat feet can sometimes lead to instability, so make sure your shoes offer excellent lateral support. We recommend running and walking shoes only if you have flat feet, as they provide the lateral support needed for pickleball. To maintain balance while making those quick movements on the court, look for shoes that offer adequate lateral support to ensure stability. 

• Breathability and Moisture Management:

Nobody enjoys sweaty feet on the court, so look for Pickleball shoes with breathable materials and moisture-wicking properties. Some even come with anti-odor tech, so check them out for ideal picks and preventing odors. 

Guide Before You Buy The Best Pickleball Shoes For Flate Feet

As flat-footed pickleball players, we would like to share some tips that’ll help you improve your gameplay. Try these to enhance your footwork without straining your feet. Here are some useful tips to deal with or take care of your flat feet:

• Choose the Right Shoes: 

As we’ve discussed earlier, investing in the right pair of pickleball shoes for flat feet is a game-changer. Don’t compromise on quality and comfort; although they may be expensive, your feet will thank you.

• Strengthening Exercises and Foot Care:

We always engaged in foot and calf strengthening exercises to improve foot function and reduce discomfort. Many flat-footed pickleball players found relief from flexibility and pain-relief stretches. Additionally, pay attention to foot care, such as pampering your feet with soothing massages.

• Use of Orthotic Inserts:

There is no shame in considering orthotic inserts or custom-made orthotics for added support and stability. These inserts can be tailored to your specific foot shape, providing personalized comfort for your flat feet. Investing in them is worth it as they feel tailored to your specific foot shape.

• Importance of Rest and Recovery:

Just as strengthening is essential, so is rest and recovery.  Give your feet ample time to rest and recover after intense pickleball sessions. Adequate rest allows your feet to be ready for the next game. Lastly, pay attention to any signs of discomfort or pain in your feet. If you experience persistent issues, don’t hesitate to seek advice from a podiatrist.

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