Hiking is one of the best ways to get outdoor exercise and has countless physical and mental benefits, making it one of the most popular and fastest-growing outdoor activities in the world, but can be challenging for those with flat feet. Having the right footwear is key to enjoying your time on the trail which is why we put together this guide to the best hiking boots for flat feet..
Having the right pair of hiking boots for flat feet is going to make your hikes safer and provide you more stability than hiking boots for non-flat-footed folks.
That’s exactly why we put together our top picks for the best men’s hiking boots for flat feet here in this guide for you.
The Best Men’s Hiking Boots For Flat Feet – Quick Reference
| Overall Best Men’s Hiking Boots For Flat Feet | Merrell Moab 2 Men’s Mid |
| Best Men’s Hiking Boots For Flat Feet With Shaft Support | Salomon X Ultra Mid 3 GTX |
| Best Men’s Waterproof Hiking Boots For Flat Feet | Keen Targhee 3 Mid |
| Most Comfortable Men’s Hiking Boots For Flat Feet | Dunham Cloud Plus Mid II |
| Best Premium Men’s Hiking Boots For Flat Feet | Lowa Renegade GTX Mid |
| Best Affordable Men’s Hiking Boots For Flat Feet | Timberland White Ledge Mid |
| Best Budget Men’s Hiking Boots For Flat Feet | Columbia Newton Ridge Plus II |
| Best Premium Men’s Hiking Boots For Flat Feet Runner-Up | Salomon Quest 4 GTX |
The Best Hiking Boots For Men With Flat Feet
Merrell Moab 2 Men’s Mid Waterproof Hiking Boots
The Merrell Moab 2 Mid Waterproof Hiking Boot is a favorite among flat-footers due to it’s excellent waterproof qualities thanks to a waterproof membrane in the boot.
They feature a Vibram TC5+ outsole, which offers outstanding traction on almost any type of terrain.
These boots have plenty of underfoot cushioning, insoles with great arch support, and are breathable, keeping your feet dry in any situation.
The boot also features an EVA midsole which is great at shock absorption.
Why We Like It:
-Waterproof membrane and breathable materials keep your feet dry in wet conditions
-Kinetic Fit Base EVA footbed provides much-needed heel support
-Vibram TC5+ outsole offers great traction on plenty of terrain types
-Full-grain leather upper is highly durable
Salomon X Ultra Mid 3 GTX Men’s Hiking Boots
The X Ultra Mid 3 Waterproof Hiking Boots by Salomon earned high marks in our reviews because they offer plenty of support by way of a shaft that runs mid-top from the arch and also double great as a work shoe, giving them plenty of versatility.
The Descent Control Technology really helps on declines and even in wet surfaces, keeping the pressure off your flat feet when it’s most needed.
These are great all-around performers for hiking, backpacking, mountaineering, and even trail running.
Why We Like It:
-Shaft provides extra support where it’s needed
-Tons of versatility means you’re not stuck only using these boots on the trail
-Durable and waterproof with Descent Control Technology
KEEN Targhee 3 Men’s Mid Waterproof Hiking Boots
KEEN’s Targhee 3 Mid Waterproof Hiking Boot is a great all-around performer, offering a waterproof and breathable membrane, durable materials, and a high-grip outsole.
The mid-high cut of these boots offers great ankle support and balance, and the contoured heel adds extra stability where it’s most needed.
These boots take waterproofing seriously, combining a membrane along with an all-leather and water-repellant upper to make sure your feet stay absolutely dry on the trail.
They’re no slacker in the support category either, offering an external support shank, which is a nice feature not often found in the budget hiking boot category.
Why We Like It:
-Excellent waterproof materials and membrane keep moisture out
-Removable dual-density EVA footbeds
-Mid-height ankle cut, support shank, and contoured heel offer excellent support
-Large toe cap offers extra protection
-Lots of features for a low price point
Dunham Cloud Plus Mid II Waterproof Hiking Boots
The Dunham Cloud Boots were designed to provide tons of comfort which is great for flat feet.
These boots offer breathable uppers and a removable memory foam footbed with stability cradle, and feature a fiberglass shank in the midsole to help create a smoother gait and support your arches.
The durable rubber outsole performs well in wet and dry conditions and is made with seam-sealed waterproof construction, making it a great performer for any type of weather.
Why We Like It:
-Fiberglass shank provides necessary arch support
-Waterproof construction and grippy outsole make these boots great for all-weather
-Lightweight, durable, and breathable materials
Lowa Renegade GTX Mid Hiking Boots
The tons of support and comfort offered by the Lowa Renegade GTX Hiking Boots make them perfect for long days of hiking – even with flat feet.
The Gore-Tex liners keep your feet dry while the derby-cut lacing fits a wide variety of foot sizes to keep you comfortable.
The Vibram Evo rubber outsoles provide awesome traction and a full-length nylon shank offers great shock absorption and support.
Why We Like It:
-Full-length nylon shanks
-Waterproof and breathable
-Great for all-weather hiking
-Top choice of hiking boot by many outlets
Timberland Men’s White Ledge Mid Waterproof Ankle Hiking Boots
Timberland’s built a longstanding reputation for their quality boots, and that’s absolutely apparent in the White Ledge Mid Waterproof Ankle Boot.
They’re casual enough for everyday use, but are also excellent for hiking and outdoor work.
The large toe box provides comfort where it’s needed, and the fact they’re waterproof and durable means you’ll be using them in all kinds of hikes – and other situations – for a long time.
Why We Like It:
-Premium waterproof materials hold up to moisture and are highly durable
-Rustproof lace hardware makes sure your boots stay on tight
-Very comfortable materials
-Multidirectional lugs on the soles provide plenty of traction and grip
Columbia Men’s Newton Ridge Plus II Waterproof Hiking Boots
The Columbia Newton Ridge Plus II Waterproof Hiking Boot is an excellent lightweight, water-resistant boot for flat feet that is also absurdly comfortable.
The cushioning and advanced traction rubber sole makes these boots excel at handling steep inclines and rough terrain.
The lace-up enclosures allow for a secure, tight fit and the inner materials are breathable and supple.
These boots are great all-weather performers and come in a variety of colors to suit any style or preference.
Why We Like It:
-Waterproof makes these boots great for year-round use
-Sole offers excellent grip and traction
-Extremely comfortable and breathable
-Lightweight while still offering all the support you’ll need
Salomon Quest 4 GTX Men’s Hiking Boots
The Salomon Quest 4 GTX Hiking Boots are great for flat footed hikers thanks to their contoured instep fit and removable OrthoLite footbeds that absorb shock and neutralize odors.
There’s a thermoplastic urethane midsole that helps control flex, enhance stability, and reduce ankle strain, while the rubber toe caps and heel slings protect your toes and uppers from abrasions and bumps on the trail.
These hiking boots incorporate advanced trail-running shoe tech into a hiking boot that will last even for the most demanding multi-day hiking trips, making them a favorite among many in the hiking community.
Why We Like It:
-Tons of comfort and support
-Lots of great safety features
-Shock-absorbing footbeds and urethane midsoles help keep flat feet comfortable
The Best Women’s Hiking Boots For Flat Feet – Quick Reference
| Overall Best Women’s Hiking Boots For Flat Feet | Merrell Moab 2 |
| Best Women’s Hiking Boots For Flat Feet With Shaft Support | Salomon X Ultra 3 Mid GTX |
| Best Women’s Waterproof Hiking Boots For Flat Feet | KEEN Targhee II Mid |
| Best Premium Women’s Hiking Boots For Flat Feet | Lowa Renegade GTX Mid |
| Best Affordable Women’s Hiking Boots For Flat Feet | Timberland White Ledge |
| Best Budget Women’s Hiking Boots For Flat Feet Runner-Up | Columbia Newton Ridge Plus |
| Best Premium Women’s Hiking Boots For Flat Feet Runner-Up | Salomon Quest 4 GTX |
The Best Hiking Boots For Women With Flat Feet
Merrell Moab 2 Women’s Mid Waterproof Hiking Boots
The Merrell Moab 2 Mid Waterproof Hiking Boot is a favorite among men and women due to it’s excellent waterproof qualities thanks to a waterproof membrane in the boot.
They feature a Vibram TC5+ outsole, which offers outstanding traction on almost any type of terrain.
These boots have plenty of underfoot cushioning, insoles with great arch support, and are breathable, keeping your feet dry in any situation.
The boot also features an EVA midsole which is great at shock absorption.
Why We Like It:
-Waterproof membrane and breathable materials keep your feet dry in wet conditions
-Kinetic Fit Base EVA footbed provides much-needed heel support
-Vibram TC5+ outsole offers great traction on plenty of terrain types
-Full-grain leather upper is highly durable
Salomon X Ultra Mid 3 GTX Women’s Hiking Boots
The X Ultra Mid 3 GTX Women’s Waterproof Hiking Boots by Salomon earned high marks in our reviews because they offer plenty of support by way of a shaft that runs mid-top from the arch and also double great as a work shoe, giving them plenty of versatility.
The Descent Control Technology really helps on declines and even in wet surfaces, keeping the pressure off your flat feet when it’s most needed.
These are great all-around performers for hiking, backpacking, mountaineering, and even trail running.
Why We Like It:
-Shaft provides extra support where it’s needed
-Tons of versatility means you’re not stuck only using these boots on the trail
-Durable and waterproof with Descent Control Technology
-Comes in both regular and wide versions for flat feet
KEEN Targhee II Women’s Mid Waterproof Hiking Boots
KEEN’s Targhee II Mid Waterproof Women’s Hiking Boot is a great all-around performer, offering a waterproof and breathable membrane, durable materials, and a high-grip outsole.
The mid-high cut of these boots offers great ankle support and balance, and the contoured heel adds extra stability where it’s most needed.
These boots take waterproofing seriously, combining a membrane along with an all-leather and water-repellant upper to make sure your feet stay absolutely dry on the trail.
They’re no slacker in the support category either, offering an external support shank, which is a nice feature not often found in the budget hiking boot category.
Why We Like It:
-Excellent waterproof materials and membrane keep moisture out
-Removable dual-density EVA footbeds
-Mid-height ankle cut, support shank, and contoured heel offer excellent support
-Large toe cap offers extra protection
-Lots of features for a low price point
Lowa Women’s Renegade GTX Mid Hiking Boots
The tons of support and comfort offered by the Lowa Women’s Renegade GTX Hiking Boots make them perfect for long days of hiking – even with flat feet.
The Gore-Tex liners keep your feet dry while the derby-cut lacing fits a wide variety of foot sizes to keep you comfortable.
The Vibram Evo rubber outsoles provide awesome traction and a full-length nylon shank offers great shock absorption and support.
Why We Like It:
-Full-length nylon shanks
-Waterproof and breathable
-Great for all-weather hiking
-Top choice of hiking boot by many outlets
Timberland Women’s White Ledge Mid Waterproof Ankle Hiking Boots
Timberland’s built a longstanding reputation for their quality boots, and that’s absolutely apparent in the White Ledge Mid Waterproof Ankle Boot.
They’re casual enough for everyday use, but are also excellent for hiking and outdoor work.
The large toe box provides comfort where it’s needed, and the fact they’re waterproof and durable means you’ll be using them in all kinds of hikes – and other situations – for a long time.
Why We Like It:
-Premium waterproof materials hold up to moisture and are highly durable
-Rustproof lace hardware makes sure your boots stay on tight
-Very comfortable materials
-Multidirectional lugs on the soles provide plenty of traction and grip
Columbia Women’s Newton Ridge Plus Waterproof Hiking Boots
The Columbia Newton Ridge Plus Waterproof Hiking Boot is an excellent lightweight, water-resistant boot that is also absurdly comfortable.
The cushioning and advanced traction rubber sole makes these boots excel at handling steep inclines and rough terrain.
The lace-up enclosures allow for a secure, tight fit and the inner materials are breathable and supple.
These boots are great all-weather performers and come in a variety of colors to suit any style or preference.
Why We Like It:
-Waterproof makes these boots great for year-round use
-Sole offers excellent grip and traction
-Extremely comfortable and breathable
-Lightweight while still offering all the support you’ll need for flat feet
Salomon Quest 4 GTX Women’s Hiking Boots
The Salomon Quest 4 GTX Hiking Boots are great for flat footed hikers thanks to their contoured instep fit and removable OrthoLite footbeds that absorb shock and neutralize odors.
There’s a thermoplastic urethane midsole that helps control flex, enhance stability, and reduce ankle strain, while the rubber toe caps and heel slings protect your toes and uppers from abrasions and bumps on the trail.
These hiking boots incorporate advanced trail-running shoe tech into a hiking boot that will last even for the most demanding multi-day hiking trips, making them a favorite among many in the hiking community.
Why We Like It:
-Tons of comfort and support
-Lots of great safety features
-Shock-absorbing footbeds and urethane midsoles help keep flat feet comfortable
How To Choose The Best Hiking Boots For Flat Feet
Not long ago, having flat feet meant extremely limited options or settling for poor-fitting boots.
Fortunately this is not the case today – there are many manufacturers who accommodate us hikers with flat feet, so there are plenty of choices available!
No matter your situation, here’s what to consider to make sure you get the best pair of hiking boots for flat feet.
Arch Support Is Crucial For Flat-Footed Hikers
The lack of arches in your feet is what cause them to be uncomfortable or painful after a short time on the trail, so support in this area of your foot is going to help considerably.
Choose a hiking boot (or additional orthotic support or hiking boot insole) that assists in supporting your arches.
Make Sure You’ve Got Adequate Support
Support is key in any boot, and especially for hikers with flat feet. Make sure your boots support your ankles and prevent them from twisting while you move.
Opt for boots with thicker outsoles that offer lug patterns that will help you to get grip and traction on a variety of surfaces.
Lastly, aim for a pair of hiking boots that offer a shank in the midsole, giving you extra support for rough terrain.
Comfort Is Paramount
Keeping comfort in mind is critically important when choosing hiking boots for your flat feet, as you’ll be spending a lot of time in them.
Pay attention that your toes have enough room to wiggle around in the boot and that the sides of your feet and heel are snug.
Note that while a stiffer midsole may seem less comfortable at first, you’ll be thankful for the support when it comes to hiking on rough terrain filled with rocks or tree roots.
Pay Attention To The Materials
When possible, opt for materials that offer durability and breathability. Most hiking boots will have this naturally, as they are designed to stand up to the demands of the trail.
Waterproofing will also be a key consideration if you’ll be hiking in wet conditions. Look for hiking boots that offer waterproof membranes along with additional water-resistant outer materials.
Think About Your Activities
Will you be doing basic hikes? Hiking steep terrain? Maybe even some mountaineering, ice climbing, or crossing water?
All of these will impact what hiking boots under $100 are best for you. Consider the boots’ compatibility with crampons or gaiters depending on your needs.
Know The Trail You’re Hiking
It’s always a great idea to research a new trail before your first time hiking it to know the type of terrain and any potential obstacles you may be up against.
This will also allow you to choose the best boot features for your situation.
Consider Your Environment
If you’ll be using your boots for both hiking and work, think about the most common situations you’ll find yourself in.
Is water or moisture a concern? Best to go with waterproof boots here.
Same goes for ankle support and safety features – the value of these really depends on your use case, but you generally can’t go wrong with more support versus less.
Keep The Weather Conditions In Mind
Some boots are rated for specific seasons, while others are all-weather.
Pay attention to this (as well as the boot’s waterproof rating) when making your selection.
Factor In The Weight
One big varying factor in hiking boots, especially boots under $100, is the weight factor.
Think about what types and lengths of hiking you’ll be doing, your overall fitness level, and your stamina when selecting your hiking boots, as weight will make a big difference over longer hikes.
How To Get A Great-Fitting Pair Of Hiking Boots For Flat Feet
Hiking boots should fit snugly around the sides and heel of your foot, provide sturdy ankle support, and leave an inch in the front for your toes. You should always try on hiking boots at the end of the day to consider foot swelling, and wear your usual pair of hiking socks.
Here are some key points to look for when you’re thinking about how your hiking boots should fit:
- If you’re flat-footed, you’ll need to consider a half-size up in hiking boot to make room for orthopedic insoles to support your arches.
- You should have at least an inch of toe room in the front, and enough room for your toes to wiggle around.
- Up to a quarter-inch heel lift is okay at first – after your boots are broken in this heel room should resolve itself, otherwise you can use a heel grip to close the gap.
- If you ever start to feel like your foot is falling asleep (aka “pins and needles”), this is a sign that your boots are too tight, and it’s time to move up a size or try thinner socks if you’ve already purchased the boots and can’t return them.
There are many additional factors to consider as you fit yourself for a new pair of hiking boots that will work for flat feet – read on for an in-depth analysis and what to look for.
Check out our guides to How Should Hiking Boots Fit and How Much Toe Room Is Needed In Hiking Boots for an in-depth explanation.
If you already have a pair of hiking boots that need some adjustment, check out our walkthrough on How To Stretch Out Hiking Boots.
Tips For Hiking With Flat Feet
Many of us were born flat-footed, but that doesn’t have to be end of the story.
Try these tips to help mediate the discomfort caused by hiking with flat feet.
Stair Raises
Performing calf raises on stairs (with or without weights) will help to naturally build arches in your feet over time.
See this video for instructions on how to do stair raises:
Use Hiking Poles
Hiking poles help shift the load off of your lower body, taking pressure off your boots and making it easier to hike with flat feet.
Check out our hiking pole size guide for tips on how to get a great-fitting pair.
Loosen Your Laces
Some flat-footed hikers report that loosening the bottom portion of their laces alleviates some of the pressure on the base of their feet.
Make sure to keep the laces tied tightly around the upper and ankle area for critical support, and test this out before hiking any precarious trails.
If you need to replace your laces, check out this article to find out what size laces for hiking boots you’ll need.
Buy Boots With Shanks
We covered shanks earlier, but the extra support and protection offered by shanks makes a huge difference when you’ve got flat feet.
Tape Your Feet
Try taping your feet with Rock Tape or something similar before hiking, which can work wonders for flat feet.
Check out this video below on how to tape your feet properly:
Try Out Toe Spacers
Using toe spacers like Correct Toes (when not hiking) can get your toes spread back out and in line with their corresponding metatarsal bones, which helps build foot strength and gives shape to your arches.
Give Minimalist Or Zero-Drop Shoes A Shot
Most standard hiking boots and everyday shoes have a good bit of heel elevation which unfortunately is not good for developing or maintaining arches.
Check out our guides to the best minimalist hiking shoes and the best toe shoes for hiking for some good recommendations on minimalist and barefoot-style hiking shoes.
Different Types Of Hiking Boots For Flat Feet – And How They Fit Differently
There are many types of hiking boots available, and all the options can be overwhelming. Make sure to pick the right type of hiking boot for your intended use.
Let’s break down the most common types of hiking boots you’ll encounter while looking for your next pair.
Hiking Shoes
These low-cut models offer flexible midsoles and are best used for day hiking.
Day Hiking Boots
Day hiking boots come in mid and high-cut options and are best for day hiking or shorter backpacking trips with lighter loads.
They’re easy to break in and have decent flex, but they don’t offer as much support as proper backpacking boots.
Backpacking Boots
You’ll want a pair of proper backpacking boots if you’re doing trips spanning several days, or going deep into the wilderness.
These boots usually come in high cut only, wrapping around the ankle to give extra support.
Backpacking boots are durable and offer stiffer midsoles than lighter boot options, and have the support you’ll need both off and on the trail.
Waterproof vs Non-Waterproof
Hiking boots come in both waterproof and non-waterproof options. Waterproof boots are great at resisting moisture, but are less breathable.
The choice is up to you, but be sure to select the right option for your needs.
If you’ll be hiking in snow, crossing streams or creeks, or otherwise getting outside in wet conditions, you’ll absolutely want to opt for a waterproof hiking boot.
If you don’t plan on hiking in these conditions, you can go non-waterproof.
Minimalist, Barefoot, and Zero-Drop Hiking Shoes
These shoes are intended to minimize padding and support to allow you to get as close as possible to a barefoot experience while still providing some protection and grip.
Choosing this type of hiking shoe is largely up to personal preference, and you’ll need to try them on to see if a barefoot-feel is right for you.
Hiking Boot Components
Hiking Boot Uppers
- What material your boot is made from determines critical factors like weight, durability, water resistance, and breathability. Read on to see what materials you’ll come across when shopping for hiking boots.
Full Grain Leather
- Full-grain leather is durable and resists abrasions, and also offers great water resistance. You’ll typically find full-grain leather used in backpacking boots.
- Full-grain leather is not as breathable or as light as split-grain leather or nylon. Also, full-grain leather boots take longer to break in.
Split Grain Leather
- Split-grain leather is usually combined with nylon to offer a breathable and lightweight hiking boot.
- Split-grain leather will result in a lower cost boot, but also is less resistant to water and scuffs.
Nubuck Leather
- Nubuck leather is simply full-grain leather that has been buffed to look like suede.
- Nubuck is durable and resists abrasions and moisture, and is flexible too.
- Expect nubuck leather hiking boots to take longer to break in.
Synthetics
- Nylon, polyester, and synthetic leather are all materials used in many of today’s hiking boots.
- Compared to leather, synthetics cost less, break in more quickly, are more lightweight, and dry faster.
- The trade-off with synthetics is that they can wear down faster than leather.
Waterproof Membranes
- Waterproof hiking boots feature breathable and waterproof membranes (like Gore-Tex and eVent) to keep water off your feet.
- You’ll be sacrificing breathability with waterproof hiking boots, which can lead to sweaty feet in warmer hiking conditions, but waterproofing is a must if you’ll be doing longer hikes in wet conditions.
Vegan Materials
- Vegan materials are made without any animal ingredients. Modern vegan hiking boots are beefy enough to provide plenty of protection and come in waterproof options.
Insulation
- Some hiking boots offer added synthetic insulation to provide additional warmth, which is a plus if you’ll be hiking in snow or colder conditions.
Hiking Boot Midsoles
- The boot’s midsole provides cushioning for the foot and helps to absorb shocks, which is really important for the comfort of your flat feet while you hike.
- The midsole provides stiffness to the boot, which can provide better comfort and stability when hiking on rocky and uneven terrain.
- Most midsoles are made from either EVA (ethylene vinyl acetate) or polyurethane.
EVA Midsoles
- EVA is lighter, less expensive, and provides more cushioning than polyurethane, and comes in different densities to provide more support in needed areas within the boot.
Polyurethane Midsoles
- Polyurethane is more durable and firmer than EVA, making it a common choice in backpacking and mountaineering boots.
Hiking Boot Internal Support
Shanks
- Shanks are inserts between 3-5mm thick that are placed between the hiking boot’s outsole and midsole to provide stiffness and load-bearing.
- Shanks vary in length, ranging from covering half the boot or all the way to the entire length of the boot.
Plates
- Plates are semi-flexible, thin inserts that may be found in boots either alone or in conjunction with shanks.
- Plates allow additional foot protection against uneven terrain like tree roots or rocks.
Hiking Boot Outsoles
- Rubber is the main material used on nearly all outsoles of hiking boots. Sometimes, additives like carbon are included to increase the rubber’s hardness.
- This hardness is great for durability, but can get slick on wet terrain, especially off trail.
Lug Pattern Outsoles
- Lugs are bumps on the outsole designed to provide traction. Mountaineering and backpacking boots feature deeper and thicker lugs to increase grip.
- Wide-spaced lugs help to shed mud and offer good traction.
Heel Brake Section
- The heel brake section of a hiking boot’s outsole is specially designed to increase heel grip to reduce your chances of sliding while hiking steep declines.
- Opt for a hiking boot with a heel brake on the outsole if you plan on hiking steep terrain.
Crampon Compatibility
- Crampons are hiking boot attachments that improve mobility on snow or ice, typically in ice climbing.
- If that’s something you’ll be doing, be sure that you pick a boot that offers compatibility with crampons.
Tips For Enjoying Your New Hiking Boots For Flat Feet
Maintain A Slow To Moderate Pace
Since most hiking boots weigh more than regular boots or shoes, maintaining your pace will allow you to preserve your energy for longer distances and periods of time.
Wear Comfortable Socks
Always wear hiking socks, even if using a non-hiking-specific pair of boots.
Consider a pair of neoprene hiking socks if you’ll be going through water or when hiking through snow.
Use Walking Poles
Walking poles help provide extra support by distributing weight through the poles and keeping it off your legs.
Avoid Carrying Extra Weight
Minimize your load as much as you can, and if you must use a backpack, opt for a lightweight daypack rather than a bulky pack. This will help with load distribution during your hike.
Stay In Shape
Don’t skip leg day, especially if you’re an avid hiker! Staying in shape and doing leg exercises goes a long way when determining the length and enjoyability of your hiking trips.
Check out 6 exercises to give you explosive power for hiking uphill and the best ways on how to prepare your feet for hiking for some helpful tips.
Best Hiking Boots For Flat Feet – Frequently Asked Questions
We ranked the Merrell Moab 2 Men’s Mid as the best men’s hiking boots for flat feet due to their comfort features, roomy toe box, and support enhancements, all at an excellent value.
We ranked the Merrell Moab 2 Women’s Mid as the best women’s hiking boots for flat feet due to their comfort features, roomy toe box, and support enhancements, all at an excellent value.
The difference between men’s hiking boots and women’s hiking boots mostly comes down to the shape and size of the boot.
Men’s feet tend to run larger and wider, while women’s feet are narrower and smaller – the boot designs and sole patterns reflect this.
The only other differences are cosmetic beyond the size and sole patterns such as designs and color options.
The key difference between hiking boots and hiking shoes is the cut, with most hiking shoes being low cut and offering no ankle support.
Hiking boots are typically better for flat feet than hiking shoes.
Beyond that, hiking shoes are typically softer and more flexible than hiking boots, aren’t as tricky to fit, and don’t need breaking in.
Hiking shoes are a good choice for dry weather and gentler terrain and place an emphasis on breathability.
We recommend hiking shoes over hiking boots only if you’ll be hiking exclusively in spring or summer and mainly in dry conditions.
It’s common advice among hikers to buy hiking boots one size larger than your average shoe size to accommodate for the swelling of your feet and to provide ample toe room.
Instead, we suggest trying on hiking boots at the end of the day (when your feet are already swollen) to get a better feel for the size of hiking boot you’ll need.
Flat-footed folks should definintely move up a half-size based on how the boot feels to have room for orthotic supports or insoles, and always be sure you have enough toe room.
Hiking boots should have enough room for your toes to wiggle up and down and side to side, should support your ankle, and should have a quarter inch or less of heel action.
You should be able to fit one finger snugly in between your heel and the back of the boot when your toes are touching the front of the boot.
You should also feel the boot hugging the sides of your foot without pinching or constricting.
Most people with flat feet do use insoles in their hiking boots to provide much-needed arch support.
The lack of natural arches in flat feet is what causes pain and discomfort after hiking for longer periods of time, and hiking boot insoles or orthotic supports help with this considerably.
Your hiking boots are too big if:
-Your heel is slipping
-Your foot can move side-to-side in the boot
-Your ankle feels wobbly within the boot
To combat this, you can use insoles or experiment with thicker hiking socks to decrease movement and improve stability within the boot.
We recommend wearing the hiking socks you usually use when trying on hiking boots, which will give you a more accurate feel.
If you use inserts, insoles, or orthopedic products, bring those along with you too.
This is up to your budget and personal preference. Leather costs more and takes longer to break in, but is more durable over time and can stretch to fit your feet, resulting in a great fit.
If you’re on a budget, synthetic hiking boots work excellently as well.
Most regular shoes are designed for comfort and casual use. You should expect hiking boots to leave more room in front of your toes to be tighter on the sides and heel compared to regular shoes.
Most hiking boots last between 500-900 miles depending on their quality, frequency of use, and the terrain you typically hike on.
Check our guide on when to replace your hiking boots for more info.
Generally you should replace your hiking boots if they are not comfortable to wear anymore, have lost their structure, or if the sole of the boot is not properly attached to the boot’s upper.
Blisters occur when your feet continue to rub against something while you hike like a poor-fitting boot or a bunched up sock – any source of constant friction.
The best way to prevent blisters is to make sure your socks and boots fit well.
Pay attention to where blisters are forming, and that will let you know where you need to focus on reducing friction (or getting more room) in your boot.
We recommend polyester blend hiking socks as they perform better against moisture than cotton socks and also work to reduce friction, cutting down on the chance of blisters.
Be sure that your socks are not too loose, as they can bunch up and cause blisters.
Also, be careful that they’re not too small either, as that can cause extra constriction and discomfort on your feet.
If you’ll be hiking in wet or snowy conditions, consider a pair of neoprene hiking socks for an added layer of protection.
Keeping your hiking boots clean will extend the use you get out of them.
Always read through the manufacturer’s care instructions, but as a general rule leather should only be cleaned with water.
Make sure to completely air dry your boots after cleaning them, and apply waterproofing treatments regularly if your boots feature any type of waterproof materials.
Wrapping Up The Best Hiking Boots For Flat Feet
If you’re flat-footed, having the right pair of hiking boots plays a huge role in the enjoyability of your trek.
Keeping the durability, comfort, fit, and quality of your boots are all things you’ll want to keep top of mind as you choose which pair of hiking boots will suit you and those flat feet the best.
Let us know in the comments below on what pair you picked, along with any questions! We’d love to know what you chose.
Thinking about hiking with the kids, or going winter hiking? Check out our guide to the best all-terrain hiking strollers and the best hiking gloves while you’re here.