Flat feet condition is a major challenge to many runners and non-runners. WebMD describes flat feet as fallen arches. Many shoe companies have an entire list of shoes specific for flat feet runners.
One inexpensive way (in comparison to buying shoes) to help relieve the pain and stress is to purchase socks that are specifically designed for flat feet.
Here are the socks that I include with links so you can check pricing on Amazon. They come in different styles, colors, and shapes.
Top 3 Best Socks For Flat Feet
1. TechWare Pro Arch Support Socks
2. QUXIANG Reinforced Heel Socks
3. Saucony Arch Stripe No-Show Socks
Our Top Choice:
RunDry moisture management helps keep feet dry. Targeted zone cushioning in high impact areas for added comfort. Mesh ventilation enhances breathability and comfort
Understanding The Flat Feet Condition
Before you step out to get the socks that are designed for your flat feet, you need to understand the condition and what causes it.
We have already mentioned it earlier that flat feet can lead to difficulty in running and even walking. You can do the simple "wet test" as a way to fully know exactly your foot type. Flat feet runners typically have the low arch.
You should know that flat feet come in two types; the rigid flat feet and the flexible flat feet.
- The Flexible Flat Feet is a condition where an arch is seen bulging on the foot when you raise it above the ground. However, when weight is placed on the arch, it will flatten.
- Conversely, the Rigid Flat Foot is when the foot becomes flat due to the structure of the bones, but not exactly the arch tendons.
Among the people who complain to me about a flat feet condition, most of them have a flexible flat foot. Regardless of the type, both conditions will deliver a similar effect to the feet and knees. So how does this happen?
How Does Flat Feet Affect Your Running?
Foot Smart mentions that over-pronation is the main issue that is linked to flat feet. Pronation is where the foot normally rolls at the end of a step as you run or walk. This happens for the foot to absorb impact as you move.
So when the foot rolls in too much beyond the shock absorption point, it is called over-pronation. Here, your ankle joints will extend, which will then make your upper and lower leg bones to rotate inwards.
At this point, you’ll experience pain in your knee joints, ankles, lower leg muscles, hips, and even the back area.
The major cause of pain is the over-pronation, and not exactly the flatness of the feet.
Actually, I have a friend who has flat feet, and he has never complained of experiencing any problem. Drs. Schrupp & Heineck break down the possible injuries in the video below.
But Why Do You Have Flat Feet?
Medical News Today cites the major causes of a flat foot, and how each can be handled.
It might seem unfair to professional runners that have flat feet. This actually might be true, because the majority of people that have flat feet develop it naturally as they grow. It is genetic-related for most people, making it impossible to evade their effects. Other than genetics, there are other causes of flat feet;
- Age. The daily walking and pressure put on the feet can also make one develop a flat foot surface. Here, the arches will gradually drop as the tendons weaken. In the long run, the arch’s natural support will be lost. That is why most of the elderly have flat feet.
- Foot injuries. If you experience torn or stretched tendons, dislocated or broken bones, you can also end up having flat feet.
- Health conditions. Specific health conditions like diabetes, obesity, or pregnancy can also make your feet flat.
- Not wearing shoes/the right shoes. If you are used to wearing open shoes that are flat, the arch will naturally drop and cause your feet to be flat.
Though these conditions vary, they all deliver the same state; a flat foot. The main focus should not be on how you got the flat feet, but rather how you should handle it.
I already said that one way to handle this is by getting the right pair of socks for flat feet (and shoes).
How To Find The Right Socks For Flat Feet
Consider the Padding
The padding is a major factor to keep in mind when you are in search for the right socks for flat feet. The major area of concern should be the arch section. This is the main area where the pain originates from. Ideally, the heels, ball, and the toes should have a dense padding. Conversely, the arch should have a light padding to promote shock absorption.
The Orthodontics/Shoe inserts Design.
You should also consider these factors as you select your socks. Choosing socks with custom-designed Orthodontics will help to enhance the performance of your flat feet. Generally, they help to make your feet work like the normal {non-flat} feet.
Size/Fit.
Unless you choose socks that fit well on your feet, you will end up experiencing pain and not exactly enjoy the delivery of those socks. Also, well-fitted socks will enhance the comfort as you put them on.
Material/Technology.
The technology or material used to make the socks will also help to reduce the pain caused by flat feet while enhancing the overall comfort. Some of the technologies used for flat feet socks include the Wick Dry and the Far Infrared Rays technology.
The 3 Best Socks for Flat Feet that Are Actually Worth Buying
TechWarePro features gentle compression on your arch that soothes the flat feet pain. Additionally, the fabric is soft, lightweight, and elastic. It is also breathable and moisture-wicking.
It may also provide relief from plantar fasciitis, muscle fatigue, sprains, Achilles tendonitis, among others. This is because of the near comprehensive compression component that supports your entire foot.
The graduated compression ensures that the right amount of compression is applied in the right places, and the sock doesn’t dig into your skin or choke the flow of blood.
- COMFORTABLE STRONG COMPRESSION IN A THIN SLEEVE: Our PATENTED Compression Socks are Made with a LIGHT WEIGHT Stretch Fabric Providing Relief from ARTHRITIS, ACHILLES TENDONITIS, SPRAINS, MUSCLE FATIGUE, in a Slim, Breathable, Moisture Wicking Soft Fabric Not At The Expense Of Less Compression.
- HELPS RELIEVE PLANTAR FASCIITIS PAIN: Helps with STANDING & WALKING Pain. THERAPY Socks Brace the Splint Area to Relieve HEEL & ARCH Pain. Compressing the Ligament EXPEDITING HEALING.
- THOUGHTFUL FEATURES: GRADUATED COMPRESSION Foot Socks Designed with a Slightly FLARED RELAXED TOP for Easy Dressing. ANATOMICALLY CORRECT LEFT and RIGHT FOOT Closed Toe Design without Cushioning Provide Unique SECOND SKIN FIT.
- SOOTHES TIRED FEET: IMPROVES CIRCULATION, REDUCES INFLAMMATION. Greater ENDURANCE & FASTER Tissue RECOVERY. Running, Crossfit, Basketball, Soccer, Walking, Hiking, Tennis, Volleyball, Golf, Kickboxing, Gymnastics, Exercise Gym Workout, Martial Arts, Dance, Cycling or any ATHLETIC Fitness SPORT.
- YOUR FEET / ANKLES DESERVE TO BE HAPPY >> MEASURE BOTH YOUR SHOE SIZE & ANKLE CIRCUMFERENCE. Refer to SIZE CHART before ORDERING to ensure the BEST FIT. 4 Sizes Small, Medium, Large, Xlarge Unisex Mens & Ladies. QUARTER LENGTH socks - 80% DURABLE Nylon & 20% Spandex for tough construction and comfort. 1 Pair
QUXIANG flat feet socks have a premium quality that are ideal for all kinds of indoor and outdoor activities including running, walking, and anything in between.
These socks provide compression of 15-20mmHg, which has been shown to be ideal for improving the blood circulation and also to keep your feet free of fatigue.
It has a no-slip cuff that makes the socks stay in place, while the moisture-absorbing fabric keeps the feet dry and sweat-free.
The arch support compression provides just the right amount of support to your sole that your muscles feel fresh all day long and they may aid in reliving your flat foot pain.
- FINALLY! - QUXIANG Compression running socks that fit just right! Premium Quality stitching for everyday use and boost your performance for any sports activity, Yoga, Gym, Cycling, Running, Walking, Standing, Travel, or just sitting on the couch. Easy to get on even though they are a compression sock. You are getting an amazing offer to keep your feet stay with optimal compression all the time.
- RUN THE EXTRA MILE - QUXIANG compression technology (15-20 mmHg) provides the ideal compression to improve blood flow, move faster, react quicker and use less energy. Circulation support to fight fatigue, Assistance with recovery after exercise.
- COMFPRTABLE - Our Compression Socks fit just right on your feet, not too tight, and provide unmatched comfort. Targeted compression zones provide varying levels of support from moderate to extra firm. Moisture-wicking design to keep feet dry.
- NEW STYLE - Durable with a fashionable look & variety colors available. Unisex and two size options ensure you receive the focused support and muscle fatigue relief that you need. Form-fitting, lightweight, and breathable fabric features maintain foot stability.
- SHOP WITH CONFIDENCE - Finest product and service around, or YOUR MONEY BACK! A veritable necessity for anyone working long-hours standing on their feet, or those heavily invested in athletics and a fitness lifestyle.
Pod Post identifies these amazing socks as a great choice for flat feet. They are designed for women, so you should keep that in mind.
What makes these socks among the best for flat feet is that they feature a band that boosts the arch support. This band goes around the arch so that it supports it perfectly. They have also been designed to hide inside the shoes. With these socks, you can be sure of a stable arch that will prevent over-pronation.
Conclusion
Do not let your flat feet keep you from enjoying the sport you love most. Get out and run as regularly as you can with the help of good flat feet socks.
Make sure to also experiment with different types of socks as well to see what works for your individual needs and you’ll be good to go.
Hi, Jeremy Here,
I am the the guy behind Train for a 5K. On this site, I share everything that learned along my running journey. The content I create is the running training I wish I had before we started this journey. About Me.
Last update on 2023-01-09 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API