The Best Work Shoes for Flat Feet Standing All Day Reviewed 2023

Are your feet flat or have your arches fallen? Do you find your shoes are less than supportive and your feet and legs get tired? Give your feet a treat by getting the best work shoes for flat feet.

Your work shoes are more than likely the ones you wear the most. Making sure they support your feet is important for comfort and the health of your feet. This is especially the case if you have flat feet which are causing you pain and discomfort.

 

Here are our top seven choices of the best work shoes for men and women with flat feet.

1. Timberland PRO Men’s Hyperion Work Boot

This work boot has all the bells and whistles—it’s waterproof, has toe protection, electrical hazard protection, and antimicrobial treatment. Then there is the Vibram sole, supportive shank and footbed, shock absorbing anti-fatigue technology, and targeted comfort system throughout. This boot is lightweight and great for supporting flat feet.

 

2. Propet Men’s Life Walker Strap Sneaker

This shoe has a 100 percent leather upper and a removable orthotic insole with arch support designed to shape to your foot. The outsole is rubber with a lightweight molded EVA midsole to absorb shock and impact. These are some of the best shoes for flat feet standing all day.

 

3. Skechers Men’s Mariner Utility Boot

Available in smooth black leather or dark brown nubuck, these shoes are a lace-up ankle boot style. They have good traction on the outsole and a cushioned insole for comfort and support. There is a wide range of sizes in two widths, medium and extra wide.

 

4. Dansko Women’s Patti Flat

This work shoe for women has been awarded the seal of acceptance by the American Podiatric Medical Association. It has a nubuck upper which has been treated for stain resistance and a Vibram slip-resistant sole. The removable EVA footbed is triple density and has Dansko’s Natural Arch technology to support your feet.

 

5. Dansko Men’s Wyatt

This shoe from Dansko is great for those men looking for a dressier style in a work shoe. It has a leather upper and lining and a firm support EVA insole which can be removed. A polyurethane midsole to absorb shock and antimicrobial sock liner for odor control are further features of this stylish oxford style loafer.

 

6. Keen Utility Men’s PTC Dress Oxford-M Industrial Shoe

Keen brings us a work shoe with good arch support in a style for both men and women. Their proprietary Metatomical footbed cradles the contours of your foot naturally. It has a water-resistant leather upper with a lace-up design and a rubber certified slip-resistant sole.

 

7. Dansko Women’s Loralie Mary Jane Flat

This is one for the ladies who want a stylish shoe that can deal with the rigors of all-day wear at work. It has a removable contoured footbed with memory foam and arch support and a leather upper and textile lining. These shoes are both pretty and practical.

 

Reviews of the Best Work Shoes for Flat Feet for Men & Women

Finding supportive shoes that accommodate your flat feet can mean hours of trudging round shops or surfing the net. Let’s make your life easier with our in-depth, honest reviews of the best work shoes for flat feet.

 

1.Timberland PRO Men’s Hyperion Work Boot

Timberland manufactures a wide range of casual and work boots and shoes. The Hyperion is a rugged style, packed with features to keep your feet comfortable and protected.

 

Available in medium and wide fittings, the sizes range from 7 through 15, with half sizes up to 11.5.

The black and brown premium leather uppers have a waterproof membrane to help keep your feet dry. They have a lightweight alloy toe cap to protect from injury and are rated for electrical hazards and bloodborne pathogens.

Support for your arches comes from a molded lightweight EVA midsole, fiberglass shank, and a dual density anti-fatigue footbed. They are contoured for comfort and designed to absorb shock when you walk, returning this energy to your feet.

The mesh lining has an antimicrobial treatment to keep feet odor free and there are thermoplastic instep overlays to give more support.

The outer sole is made from Vibram, giving it durability as well as being oil and abrasion resistant. This will give you a firmer footing with each step.

Absorbing shock and returning energy to key zones of the foot, the Dual-density dynamic anti-fatigue technology provides moisture management for all-day comfort.

Timberland offers a 30-day money back guarantee if you feel these boots are not as comfortable as your current brand.

Some find the tongue of this boot can create a pressure point on the ankle when laced. Others may also find these boots are a little on the heavy side.

Pros

• Anti-fatigue footbed that molds to your foot.
• Fiberglass shank.
• EVA molded midsole.
• Leather uppers.
• Alloy toe caps.
• Electrical and bloodborne hazard resistance.
• Odor control.
• 30-day comfort guarantee.

Cons

• Could have a pressure point on the ankle for some wearers.
• Might be too heavy for some.

The Timberland Hyperion has good support and cushioning for flat feet from an anti-fatigue footbed, EVA midsole, and fiberglass shank. With built-in protection for toes and from other hazards, it’s ideal for many different workplaces.

 

2. Propet Men’s Life Walker Strap Sneaker

Propet has been bringing us comfortable footwear for over 30 years. They focus on using quality materials, technology, and construction to provide biomechanical footwear.

 

This shoe has a leather upper available for men in black, brown, and two shades of white. The sizes range from 7 to 15, in medium, extra wide, and extra extra wide fittings.

There is also a similar model available for women, the Propet Women’s Eden. This comes in sizes 5 through 11 with four width fittings, narrow, medium, wide, and extra wide.

 

Light arch support in the shoes for men and women is provided by a removable Ortholite insole. This is made from open cell foam which is lightweight and allows air to circulate. The top layer of the insole is made from memory foam for added comfort.

The rubber outsoles are flexible and durable and have an EVA cushioned midsole. This gives further support for your feet as well as protection from impact.

The women’s shoes also have an antimicrobial Drilex lining. This controls odor, keeping feet fresh.

The firm heel counter on the men’s shoe helps stabilize your feet. Both styles are secured with velcro straps, making them easy to put on and take off.

These are some of the best shoes for standing all day.

Although some find the arch support is not sufficient, custom orthotics are easily accommodated in these shoes.

Pros

• Good range of sizes for men and women.
• Choice of width fittings up to extra extra wide for men.
• EVA cushioned midsole.
• Firm heel counter for stability.
• Removable open cell foam insole with memory foam upper.

Cons

• Arch support might not be enough for some.

In styles for both men and women, these shoes come in a wide range of sizes and widths. An Ortholite insole with a memory foam upper gives cushioning and support for flat feet.

 

 

3. Skechers Men’s Mariner Utility Boot

This shoe from Skechers is a firm favorite in the choice of footwear for work. The casual design reaches to the ankle and it’s available in both black leather and brown nubuck.

 

Sizes for this shoe are available between 6.5 to 14 in medium and extra wide fittings. It has a 1.5-inch heel and thick lugged outsole. This gives it good traction on most surfaces.

The toe box on this shoe is deep and roomy and it has a supportive instep. A lightly padded, cushioned insole gives support and comfort to your feet.

The padded collar keeps your ankles comfortable while a lacing system holds the shoes securely on your feet.

While the arch support is very light in these shoes, they are able to accommodate custom insoles or orthotics. If you feel you need additional arch support, you can check out our article on the best insoles for work boots.

Pros

• Casual design work shoe.
• Available in wider sizes.
• Roomy toe box
• Padded removable insole.

Cons

• Might need additional arch support.

A firm favorite with many, this Skechers work shoe is comfortable and practical. It has a thick lugged outsole that gives good traction. The insole is padded for support and comfort.

 

4. Dansko Women’s Patti Flat

Dansko makes many shoes awarded a seal of acceptance by the American Podiatric Medical Association. This women’s style is one of them.

 

The waterproof uppers are made from milled nubuck leather and are available in black or chocolate brown. These shoes are also treated with a 3M Scotchguard for stain resistance. The slip-on style makes them easy to wear.

Sizes available range from 5.5 to 12. The sizes are converted from European sizing and consequently, each covers a half size range, for example, 5.5–6, 7.5–8, etc.

The support from a triple density footbed is great for your arches. They also absorb impact making your feet more comfortable. If you need custom orthotics then these shoes have room to accommodate them.

Feet are kept fresh and dry from both moisture managing and odor control treatments.

The Vibram rubber sole has a built-in shank giving more support and stability to your feet. The sole is also slip resistant.

Some find these shoes run a little on the narrow side and also might develop a squeak when walking.

Pros

• Leather clog style work shoe.
• Good arch support.
• Moisture and odor control.
• Water resistant.
• Slip resistant.
• Scotchguard treated.

Cons

• Might be too narrow for some.
• Can develop a squeaky noise.

Dansko manufactures a number of shoes with good arch support. This style is made from nubuck leather, has odor control, and moisture protection inside and out.

 

5. Dansko Men’s Wyatt

Do you need a smart shoe for work that will still give your feet the support they need? This Oxford-style loafer from Dansko could fit the bill.

 

Available in black or brown leather, there are sizes available from 7.5 to 15. The stitching detail and moc toe design make this a stylish shoe for the office, restaurant work, health care workers, and many other types of work. They are also comfortable when you are standing or walking a lot.

The outer sole is certified slip-resistant and has a polyurethane midsole to provide extra cushioning and shock absorption for the feet. It also has a shank secured in a three-quarter tuck board to provide stability.

Inside the shoe is a removable footbed made from triple-density EVA. It has arch support and cushions your feet. The sock lining is leather for added comfort. There are also antimicrobial, moisture wicking, and odor control properties to keep your feet fresh and dry.

These shoes might take a little while to break in to get the comfort you want. They also tend to be a little heavier than some other shoes which might take some getting used to.

Pros

• Good arch support.
• Odor control and moisture wicking.
• Leather uppers.
• Certified slip-resistant soles.
• Stylish design.

Cons

• Might be too heavy for some.
• Could need a break in period.

These are stylish Oxford-style loafers which are supportive for flat feet in the workplace. The outer sole is certified slip-resistant and they have antimicrobial, odor control, and moisture wicking properties.

 

6. Keen Utility Men’s PTC Dress Oxford-M Industrial Shoe

Mens:

 

Women’s:

 

Keen brings us a work shoe with styles for both men and women. They have a stain and water resistant leather upper and a leather lining.

The shoes come in sizes 5 to 11 for women and 7 to 14 for men. There is only one color choice of black.

The footbed of these shoes is made from proprietary Keen Cush, a blend of recycled polyurethane, cork, and memory foam. This is designed to contour to your foot for all-day comfort and support. The toe box of these shoes is also very roomy.

The outer sole is certified slip resistant and there is a compression molded midsole and a stability shank. This keeps you steady on your feet on slippery surfaces.

The toe of these shoes also offers some protection with Keen’s patented design which wraps the front of the outer sole over the toes.

The durability of these shoes may be questionable and they might need replacing or repairing after about six months of heavy wear. The shoes also have a tendency to squeak.

Pros

• Supportive cushioned footbed.
• Certified slip-resistant.
• Toe protection.
• Roomy toe box.
• Styles for men and women.

Cons

• Durability might be questionable.
• Possible squeak when walking.

These work shoes from Keen have a supportive, cushioned insole to help support fallen arches or flat feet. They are certified slip-resistant and have some toe protection.

 

7. Dansko Women’s Loralie Mary Jane Flat

The ladies among you might appreciate a work shoe that is both pretty and practical. This Mary Jane style from Dansko is a good choice for flat feet.

 

This shoe is available in several colors including black, moss, red, and burgundy. The sizes range from 4.5 to 13.

They have a leather upper and soft leather and textile lining. There is a removable contoured footbed with thermoplastic polyurethane arch support and memory foam. This provides both support and comfort for flat feet.

More comfort and flexibility is supplied from a foam latex tuckboard, while a molded polyurethane wedge gives stability. The outer sole has thermoplastic rubber for durability. The heel height is two inches.

On the downside, there may be some inconsistencies in color, especially in the red shades.

Pros

• Arch support and cushioning.
• Rubber soles.
• Leather uppers in a choice of colors.
• Pretty and practical.

Cons

• There may be color inconsistencies.

Some professions for women require a prettier style of footwear. These Dansko Mary Janes provide support for your arches and are cushioned for all-day wear.

 

You may also be interested in:

• Best work shoes for back pain
• Best work shoes for high arches

 

 

What Are Flat Feet?

Flat feet, sometimes called fallen arches, describes when the whole of the sole of your foot touches the floor when you are standing.

There are two types of flat feet, flexible and rigid. Flexible flat feet will have an arch when you aren’t standing but flatten when you do. Rigid flat feet are flat whether standing or not.

The condition is thought to affect about 26 percent of the population and does not always present with any pain or symptoms.

 

Causes of Flat Feet

There are several reasons why you may have flat feet:

• It could be hereditary or develop during your formative years. Many children and toddlers have flat feet until the arch has a chance to form. Sometimes it doesn’t and the foot stays flat.
• When we get older, general wear and tear takes a toll on our body. Arches can fall over the years when the supporting tendons in the ankles get weaker. When your arches aren’t supporting your feet and body the way they should, you might get problems with your ankles and knees. This is because of changes in the way your legs align.
• Risk factors like rheumatoid arthritis, diabetes, and obesity might render you more likely to develop fallen arches.
• Injuries to your ankles or feet can also lead to this condition.

 

Symptoms of Flat Feet

Many people have no symptoms associated with this foot condition. Others might experience pain in the arches, heels, or elsewhere in the foot. Sometimes it can affect the ankles causing swelling.

If you do experience pain in your feet, you should see your doctor.

 

Treatment for Flat Feet

If your flat feet don’t cause any pain then no treatment is necessary. However, there are some things a foot doctor might suggest. These include:

• Advice on what shoes to wear. Generally, wide shoes which are comfortable with a low heel are best. Shoes which have plenty of support might also be better than sandals or casual soft shoes.
• Insoles with supportive arches or which contour to the shape of your feet can alleviate pain. These could be over-the-counter or custom made.
• Foot stretches and exercises might strengthen tendons that support your arches.
• Use painkillers when necessary.

This video details some of the features and symptoms of flat feet.

 

What to Look for in Work Shoes for Flat Feet

Most of us will spend over eight hours, five days a week, in work shoes. You want to make sure they are going to be comfortable and supportive. These are some of the things you should consider when looking for the best work shoes for flat feet:

• Arch support: Fallen arches can lead to overpronation—the feet turning in as you walk—which can cause foot pain. Having some arch support in your shoes will help correct the way you walk as well as support the tendons and muscles in the foot. It doesn’t mean you need the highest arch support—this could cause even more pain—light support is often enough.
• Cushioning and shock absorption: A good level of cushioning from both the insole and midsole of a shoe can help make feet more comfortable and compensate for uneven weight distribution. Look for materials like memory foam, EVA, or polyurethane foam—materials that mold to your foot would also be good. These will be durable and give your feet the protection they need from impact.
• Shoe width: Flat feet tend to lead to wider feet. Shoes which offer plenty of room in both the width and the toe box might be more comfortable.
• Quality: While tempting, skimping on a budget for lower quality materials might be a false economy. Materials like leather, although more costly, will generally wear better and give more support.
• Removable footbed: While many supportive shoes come with cushioned, contoured insoles, they are not always going to suit all feet. Over time, you might also find these wear out before the shoes do. If they are removable you can replace them with a custom or over-the-counter orthotic of your choice that suits your feet.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Flat Feet Be Cured by Wearing the Right Shoes?

There is no cure for flat feet. Nevertheless, wearing supportive shoes can alleviate associated issues. Supporting your arches and cushioning your feet along with stability in a shoe will be beneficial. They can correct the way you walk and help relieve pain.

 

How Can I Tell If I Have Flat Feet?

There is a simple way you can check to see if you have flat feet:

• Firstly, wet your feet.
• Stand on a flat surface or a piece of kitchen towel where the imprint of your foot can be seen.
• When you lift your foot off the floor, examine the imprint. If there is a complete print of the whole of the base of your foot then it’s likely you have flat feet.

This video shows you one way you can do the water test using cardboard to stand on.

 

How Often Should I Replace My Work Shoes for Flat Feet?

For the majority of people, work shoes need to be replaced every eight to 12 months or after about 300 to 430 miles of use. There are some telltale signs that your work shoes may be past their sell-by date. These include:

• Soles: Excessive wear in a particular area of the sole indicates they could be ready to be replaced. The same applies to shoes that tip over or rock when they are on a flat surface (and not on your feet).
• Midsole: Many shoes have an EVA midsole to cushion and absorb shock. When it compresses too much, visible wrinkles will appear and it won’t be doing its job.
• Uppers and interiors: Holes, unusual wear in an area, or shape distortion are indicators of wear in the uppers of your shoes. Check to see how well the heels are holding up, this is another telltale area for wear and tear.

It really is a matter of common sense. If your shoes are no longer as comfortable as they used to be and are looking a little shabby then you might need new ones.

 

Working It Out

Many people with flat feet won’t experience any symptoms, all the same, having supportive shoes won’t cause any harm. Getting the best work shoes for flat feet means you will have all day comfort and get the spring back in your step.

We have reviewed several different styles of shoes for work for both men and women. Which ones you choose to help your flat feet will depend on the type of work you do and what type of shoe you need.

The ultimate choice is up to you and we hope we have given you useful information and made that task easier. Please leave us a comment with your own experiences or thoughts and don’t forget to share.