{"id":19294,"date":"2026-07-27T23:21:03","date_gmt":"2026-07-27T18:21:03","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/usnews-14267fa.ingress-comporellon.ewp.live\/?p=19294"},"modified":"2026-07-27T23:21:03","modified_gmt":"2026-07-27T18:21:03","slug":"the-best-flats-with-arch-support-according-to-podiatrists","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/usnews-14267fa.ingress-comporellon.ewp.live\/?p=19294","title":{"rendered":"The Best Flats With Arch Support, According to Podiatrists"},"content":{"rendered":"<p><script>\r\n  atOptions = {\r\n    'key' : '644b717812d811d6a1c1fc5b6ccd6fa6',\r\n    'format' : 'iframe',\r\n    'height' : 90,\r\n    'width' : 728,\r\n    'params' : {}\r\n  };\r\n<\/script>\r\n<script src=\"https:\/\/www.highperformanceformat.com\/644b717812d811d6a1c1fc5b6ccd6fa6\/invoke.js\"><\/script>\r\n<br \/>\n<\/p>\n<div xmlns:default=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\">\n<p id=\"anchor-1c48a6\" class=\"body-graf\">Flats are stylish and can certainly be more comfortable than heels, but they are not without their own issues. The problem often lies in the very name of this style of shoe. A completely flat shoe means no support \u2014 particularly arch support, which goes a long way when it comes to keeping your feet comfortable and stable. <\/p>\n<p id=\"anchor-53534b\" class=\"body-graf\">\u201cArch support keeps your foot better aligned, which helps support your entire body and makes sure there is good distribution of pressure across your feet,\u201d says<a href=\"https:\/\/ankleandfootcenters.com\/dr-alvarez\/\" target=\"_blank\"> Dr. Gregory Alvarez<\/a>, a podiatrist at the Ankle and Foot Centers of America. That even distribution matters more than you might think \u2014 when weight isn\u2019t spread properly across your foot, it puts extra strain further up the chain, in your muscles, ligaments and joints.<\/p>\n<p id=\"anchor-71e1b0\" class=\"body-graf\">The good news is that there are flats out there that offer that much-needed arch support. To help you find flats that actually do right by your feet, I asked podiatrists what to look for and rounded up the pairs worth adding to your shoe rotation.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"http:\/\/www.nbcnews.com\/select\/shopping\/best-flats-with-arch-support-rcna589466#anchor-92818a\" id=\"anchor-92818a\" class=\"scrollLink\"><\/p>\n<h2 class=\"body-heading\">The best flats with arch support<\/h2>\n<p><\/a><a href=\"http:\/\/www.nbcnews.com\/select\/shopping\/best-flats-with-arch-support-rcna589466#anchor-7b125c\" id=\"anchor-7b125c\" class=\"scrollLink\"><\/p>\n<h3 class=\"body-heading\">Best overall<\/h3>\n<p><\/a><\/p>\n<div id=\"anchor-2ed025\">\n<div id=\"rcpd76965\" class=\"styles_product__lnrKX\" data-testid=\"article-product-unit\">\n<div class=\"listicleProduct dn-print  product__grid-container--small\" data-activity-map=\"listicle-product-article-body-vivaia-square-toe-all-day-standing-flats\" data-testid=\"product-container\">\n<div class=\"product__grid-row\">\n<div class=\"product__border\">\n<div class=\"df flex-column items-stretch product__card-container flex-row-m\">\n<div class=\"product__pictureLink product__picture-link db-m dn\"><a href=\"https:\/\/ncls1.com\/irk?o=nthd73&amp;s=515050&amp;subid=nbcnews.com&amp;bkd=vivaiacollection.com&amp;di=bestflatswitharchsupportrcna589466&amp;d=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.vivaia.com%2Fproducts%2FXRPD01014%2FMabel%3Fgid%3D10033344&amp;arid=rcna589466&amp;aurl=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.nbcnews.com%2Fselect%2Fshopping%2Fbest-flats-with-arch-support-rcna589466&amp;srnm=direct_desktop\" data-product-id=\"rcpd76965\" rel=\"sponsored noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\" data-testid=\"product-picture-link\" class=\"w-100\"><picture class=\"\" data-testid=\"picture\" data-flavor=\"fit\" data-original-height=\"800\" data-original-width=\"800\"><source media=\"(min-width: 1240px)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com\/image\/upload\/t_fit-260w,f_avif,q_auto:eco,dpr_2\/rockcms\/2026-07\/DIFFBOT-Square-Toe-All-Day-Standing-Flats-Mabel-806498.jpg 2x, https:\/\/media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com\/image\/upload\/t_fit-260w,f_auto,q_auto:best\/rockcms\/2026-07\/DIFFBOT-Square-Toe-All-Day-Standing-Flats-Mabel-806498.jpg 1x\"\/><source media=\"(min-width: 1000px)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com\/image\/upload\/t_fit-260w,f_avif,q_auto:eco,dpr_2\/rockcms\/2026-07\/DIFFBOT-Square-Toe-All-Day-Standing-Flats-Mabel-806498.jpg 2x, https:\/\/media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com\/image\/upload\/t_fit-260w,f_auto,q_auto:best\/rockcms\/2026-07\/DIFFBOT-Square-Toe-All-Day-Standing-Flats-Mabel-806498.jpg 1x\"\/><source media=\"(min-width: 758px)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com\/image\/upload\/t_fit-360w,f_avif,q_auto:eco,dpr_2\/rockcms\/2026-07\/DIFFBOT-Square-Toe-All-Day-Standing-Flats-Mabel-806498.jpg 2x, https:\/\/media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com\/image\/upload\/t_fit-360w,f_auto,q_auto:best\/rockcms\/2026-07\/DIFFBOT-Square-Toe-All-Day-Standing-Flats-Mabel-806498.jpg 1x\"\/><source media=\"(min-width: 320px)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com\/image\/upload\/t_fit-320w,f_avif,q_auto:eco,dpr_2\/rockcms\/2026-07\/DIFFBOT-Square-Toe-All-Day-Standing-Flats-Mabel-806498.jpg 2x, https:\/\/media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com\/image\/upload\/t_fit-320w,f_auto,q_auto:best\/rockcms\/2026-07\/DIFFBOT-Square-Toe-All-Day-Standing-Flats-Mabel-806498.jpg 1x\"\/><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com\/image\/upload\/t_fit-320w,f_auto,q_auto:best\/rockcms\/2026-07\/DIFFBOT-Square-Toe-All-Day-Standing-Flats-Mabel-806498.jpg\" alt=\"Vivaia Square-Toe All-Day Standing Flats\" height=\"800\" width=\"800\"\/><\/picture><\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"styles_accordion__Z2nEy styles_accordion__Z_3zC undefined styles_closed__PAn2s\" data-testid=\"accordion\" data-title=\"What to know\">\n<div aria-hidden=\"true\" aria-labelledby=\"accordion-button\" class=\"styles_accordion__content__09JIS styles_accordion__content__NO3i2 styles_closed__PAn2s\" data-testid=\"accordion__content\" role=\"region\" tabindex=\"-1\">\n<div class=\"styles_prosConsContainer__bhblj\" data-testid=\"listicle-product__pros-cons-container\" data-activity-map=\"product-article-body-vivaia-square-toe-all-day-standing-flats\">\n<div class=\"styles_prosConsChild__qnk7K\">\n<p>What we like<\/p>\n<ul class=\"styles_prosConsItems__rVNhO\">\n<li>Lightweight<\/li>\n<li>Breathable upper<\/li>\n<li>Machine-washable<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p id=\"anchor-2b3e97\" class=\"body-graf\">I have wide feet and zero natural arch \u2014 and these square-toe flats from Vivaia keep me comfy all day. The built-in arch support and honeycomb-cushioned insole cradle my feet, while the responsive outsole eases pressure on my knees and back through long days when I\u2019m on my feet for several hours at a time.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"http:\/\/www.nbcnews.com\/select\/shopping\/best-flats-with-arch-support-rcna589466#anchor-d1167f\" id=\"anchor-d1167f\" class=\"scrollLink\"><\/p>\n<h3 class=\"body-heading\">Best trendy style<\/h3>\n<p><\/a><\/p>\n<div id=\"anchor-a52987\">\n<div id=\"rcpd76096\" class=\"styles_product__lnrKX\" data-testid=\"article-product-unit\">\n<div class=\"listicleProduct dn-print  product__grid-container--small\" data-activity-map=\"listicle-product-article-body-cushionaire-siesta-modern-lattice-ballet-flats\" data-testid=\"product-container\">\n<div class=\"product__grid-row\">\n<div class=\"product__border\">\n<div class=\"df flex-column items-stretch product__card-container flex-row-m\">\n<div class=\"product__pictureLink product__picture-link db-m dn\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/dp\/B0GYQ3JK18?tag=bestflatswitharchsupportrcna589466-20&amp;psc=1\" data-product-id=\"rcpd76096\" data-aps-asc-tag=\"bestflatswitharchsupportrcna589466-20\" data-aps-asin=\"B0GYQ3JK18\" rel=\"sponsored noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\" data-testid=\"product-picture-link\" class=\"w-100\"><picture class=\"\" data-testid=\"picture\" data-flavor=\"fit\" data-original-height=\"500\" data-original-width=\"500\"><source media=\"(min-width: 1240px)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com\/image\/upload\/t_fit-260w,f_avif,q_auto:eco,dpr_2\/rockcms\/2026-07\/AMAZON-CUSHIONAIRE-Siesta-Modern-Lattice-Ballet-Flats-for-Women-Comfortable-Slip-On-Pointed-Toe-Womens-Jelly-Shoes-MOCHA-7-42fa78.jpg 2x, https:\/\/media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com\/image\/upload\/t_fit-260w,f_auto,q_auto:best\/rockcms\/2026-07\/AMAZON-CUSHIONAIRE-Siesta-Modern-Lattice-Ballet-Flats-for-Women-Comfortable-Slip-On-Pointed-Toe-Womens-Jelly-Shoes-MOCHA-7-42fa78.jpg 1x\"\/><source media=\"(min-width: 1000px)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com\/image\/upload\/t_fit-260w,f_avif,q_auto:eco,dpr_2\/rockcms\/2026-07\/AMAZON-CUSHIONAIRE-Siesta-Modern-Lattice-Ballet-Flats-for-Women-Comfortable-Slip-On-Pointed-Toe-Womens-Jelly-Shoes-MOCHA-7-42fa78.jpg 2x, https:\/\/media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com\/image\/upload\/t_fit-260w,f_auto,q_auto:best\/rockcms\/2026-07\/AMAZON-CUSHIONAIRE-Siesta-Modern-Lattice-Ballet-Flats-for-Women-Comfortable-Slip-On-Pointed-Toe-Womens-Jelly-Shoes-MOCHA-7-42fa78.jpg 1x\"\/><source media=\"(min-width: 758px)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com\/image\/upload\/t_fit-360w,f_avif,q_auto:eco,dpr_2\/rockcms\/2026-07\/AMAZON-CUSHIONAIRE-Siesta-Modern-Lattice-Ballet-Flats-for-Women-Comfortable-Slip-On-Pointed-Toe-Womens-Jelly-Shoes-MOCHA-7-42fa78.jpg 2x, https:\/\/media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com\/image\/upload\/t_fit-360w,f_auto,q_auto:best\/rockcms\/2026-07\/AMAZON-CUSHIONAIRE-Siesta-Modern-Lattice-Ballet-Flats-for-Women-Comfortable-Slip-On-Pointed-Toe-Womens-Jelly-Shoes-MOCHA-7-42fa78.jpg 1x\"\/><source media=\"(min-width: 320px)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com\/image\/upload\/t_fit-320w,f_avif,q_auto:eco,dpr_2\/rockcms\/2026-07\/AMAZON-CUSHIONAIRE-Siesta-Modern-Lattice-Ballet-Flats-for-Women-Comfortable-Slip-On-Pointed-Toe-Womens-Jelly-Shoes-MOCHA-7-42fa78.jpg 2x, https:\/\/media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com\/image\/upload\/t_fit-320w,f_auto,q_auto:best\/rockcms\/2026-07\/AMAZON-CUSHIONAIRE-Siesta-Modern-Lattice-Ballet-Flats-for-Women-Comfortable-Slip-On-Pointed-Toe-Womens-Jelly-Shoes-MOCHA-7-42fa78.jpg 1x\"\/><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com\/image\/upload\/t_fit-320w,f_auto,q_auto:best\/rockcms\/2026-07\/AMAZON-CUSHIONAIRE-Siesta-Modern-Lattice-Ballet-Flats-for-Women-Comfortable-Slip-On-Pointed-Toe-Womens-Jelly-Shoes-MOCHA-7-42fa78.jpg\" alt=\"Cushionaire Siesta Modern Lattice Ballet Flats\" height=\"500\" width=\"500\"\/><\/picture><\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"styles_accordion__Z2nEy styles_accordion__Z_3zC undefined styles_closed__PAn2s\" data-testid=\"accordion\" data-title=\"What to know\">\n<div aria-hidden=\"true\" aria-labelledby=\"accordion-button\" class=\"styles_accordion__content__09JIS styles_accordion__content__NO3i2 styles_closed__PAn2s\" data-testid=\"accordion__content\" role=\"region\" tabindex=\"-1\">\n<div class=\"styles_prosConsContainer__bhblj\" data-testid=\"listicle-product__pros-cons-container\" data-activity-map=\"product-article-body-cushionaire-siesta-modern-lattice-ballet-flats\">\n<div class=\"styles_prosConsChild__qnk7K\">\n<p>What we like<\/p>\n<ul class=\"styles_prosConsItems__rVNhO\">\n<li>Cushioned insole<\/li>\n<li>Breathable<\/li>\n<li>Six color options<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p id=\"anchor-22ab6e\" class=\"body-graf\">These trendy jelly flats come recommended by Dr. Samantha Landau, a podiatrist and professor at <a href=\"https:\/\/nycpm.touro.edu\/\" target=\"_blank\">New York College of Podiatric Medicine at Touro University<\/a>. Though she has not personally tried them, she says they appear to have cushioned support to help keep you comfortable when you wear them; which Cushionaire confirms. The insole is cushioned, with extra padding at the arch. <\/p>\n<p id=\"anchor-791c8d\" class=\"body-graf\">The on-trend jelly style has a lattice design and a slightly pointy toe that makes them look stylish. One thing to note: They run large, so if you are in between sizes, you should size down, according to the brand. <\/p>\n<p><a href=\"http:\/\/www.nbcnews.com\/select\/shopping\/best-flats-with-arch-support-rcna589466#anchor-50fb25\" id=\"anchor-50fb25\" class=\"scrollLink\"><\/p>\n<h3 class=\"body-heading\">Best sporty style<\/h3>\n<p><\/a><\/p>\n<div id=\"anchor-d3a668\">\n<div id=\"rcpd76966\" class=\"styles_product__lnrKX\" data-testid=\"article-product-unit\">\n<div class=\"listicleProduct dn-print  product__grid-container--small\" data-activity-map=\"listicle-product-article-body-revitalign-women\u2019s-siesta-serenity-flats\" data-testid=\"product-container\">\n<div class=\"product__grid-row\">\n<div class=\"product__border\">\n<div class=\"df flex-column items-stretch product__card-container flex-row-m\">\n<div class=\"product__pictureLink product__picture-link db-m dn\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/dp\/B0G1VF83ND?tag=bestflatswitharchsupportrcna589466-20&amp;psc=1\" data-product-id=\"rcpd76966\" data-aps-asc-tag=\"bestflatswitharchsupportrcna589466-20\" data-aps-asin=\"B0G1VF83ND\" rel=\"sponsored noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\" data-testid=\"product-picture-link\" class=\"w-100\"><picture class=\"\" data-testid=\"picture\" data-flavor=\"fit\" data-original-height=\"375\" data-original-width=\"500\"><source media=\"(min-width: 1240px)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com\/image\/upload\/t_fit-260w,f_avif,q_auto:eco,dpr_2\/rockcms\/2026-07\/AMAZON-Revitalign-Womens-Siesta-Serenity-Black-9-fb7c41.jpg 2x, https:\/\/media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com\/image\/upload\/t_fit-260w,f_auto,q_auto:best\/rockcms\/2026-07\/AMAZON-Revitalign-Womens-Siesta-Serenity-Black-9-fb7c41.jpg 1x\"\/><source media=\"(min-width: 1000px)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com\/image\/upload\/t_fit-260w,f_avif,q_auto:eco,dpr_2\/rockcms\/2026-07\/AMAZON-Revitalign-Womens-Siesta-Serenity-Black-9-fb7c41.jpg 2x, https:\/\/media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com\/image\/upload\/t_fit-260w,f_auto,q_auto:best\/rockcms\/2026-07\/AMAZON-Revitalign-Womens-Siesta-Serenity-Black-9-fb7c41.jpg 1x\"\/><source media=\"(min-width: 758px)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com\/image\/upload\/t_fit-360w,f_avif,q_auto:eco,dpr_2\/rockcms\/2026-07\/AMAZON-Revitalign-Womens-Siesta-Serenity-Black-9-fb7c41.jpg 2x, https:\/\/media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com\/image\/upload\/t_fit-360w,f_auto,q_auto:best\/rockcms\/2026-07\/AMAZON-Revitalign-Womens-Siesta-Serenity-Black-9-fb7c41.jpg 1x\"\/><source media=\"(min-width: 320px)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com\/image\/upload\/t_fit-320w,f_avif,q_auto:eco,dpr_2\/rockcms\/2026-07\/AMAZON-Revitalign-Womens-Siesta-Serenity-Black-9-fb7c41.jpg 2x, https:\/\/media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com\/image\/upload\/t_fit-320w,f_auto,q_auto:best\/rockcms\/2026-07\/AMAZON-Revitalign-Womens-Siesta-Serenity-Black-9-fb7c41.jpg 1x\"\/><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com\/image\/upload\/t_fit-320w,f_auto,q_auto:best\/rockcms\/2026-07\/AMAZON-Revitalign-Womens-Siesta-Serenity-Black-9-fb7c41.jpg\" alt=\"Revitalign Women\u2019s Siesta Serenity Flats\" height=\"375\" width=\"500\"\/><\/picture><\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"styles_accordion__Z2nEy styles_accordion__Z_3zC undefined styles_closed__PAn2s\" data-testid=\"accordion\" data-title=\"What to know\">\n<div aria-hidden=\"true\" aria-labelledby=\"accordion-button\" class=\"styles_accordion__content__09JIS styles_accordion__content__NO3i2 styles_closed__PAn2s\" data-testid=\"accordion__content\" role=\"region\" tabindex=\"-1\">\n<div class=\"styles_prosConsContainer__bhblj\" data-testid=\"listicle-product__pros-cons-container\" data-activity-map=\"product-article-body-revitalign-women\u2019s-siesta-serenity-flats\">\n<div class=\"styles_prosConsChild__qnk7K\">\n<p>What we like<\/p>\n<ul class=\"styles_prosConsItems__rVNhO\">\n<li>Orthotic-grade arch support<\/li>\n<li>Removable footbed<\/li>\n<li>Slip-on design<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"styles_prosConsChild__qnk7K\">\n<p>Something to note<\/p>\n<ul class=\"styles_prosConsItems__rVNhO\">\n<li>Style is not for all occasions<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p id=\"anchor-7fb829\" class=\"body-graf\">\u201cI love this shoe company,\u201d says Landau. \u201cTheir built-in arch support is very good and cushioned.\u201d The shoe pairs a quilted denim upper with stretchy elastic gore panels for an easy slip-on fit. Inside, a removable cork memory-foam footbed delivers orthotic-grade arch, according to the brand.  <\/p>\n<p><a href=\"http:\/\/www.nbcnews.com\/select\/shopping\/best-flats-with-arch-support-rcna589466#anchor-50ca86\" id=\"anchor-50ca86\" class=\"scrollLink\"><\/p>\n<h3 class=\"body-heading\">Best splurge <\/h3>\n<p><\/a><\/p>\n<div id=\"anchor-d630a4\">\n<div id=\"rcpd76967\" class=\"styles_product__lnrKX\" data-testid=\"article-product-unit\">\n<div class=\"listicleProduct dn-print  product__grid-container--small\" data-activity-map=\"listicle-product-article-body-naot-purini-flats\" data-testid=\"product-container\">\n<div class=\"product__grid-row\">\n<div class=\"product__border\">\n<div class=\"df flex-column items-stretch product__card-container flex-row-m\">\n<div class=\"product__pictureLink product__picture-link db-m dn\"><a href=\"https:\/\/click.linksynergy.com\/deeplink?id=ucE5BarM2zo&amp;mid=54033&amp;u1=bestflatswitharchsupportrcna589466&amp;murl=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.zappos.com%2Fp%2Fwomens-naot-purini-polar-sea-leather%2Fproduct%2F10013656%2Fcolor%2F247264\" data-product-id=\"rcpd76967\" rel=\"sponsored noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\" data-testid=\"product-picture-link\" class=\"w-100\"><picture class=\"\" data-testid=\"picture\" data-flavor=\"fit\" data-original-height=\"1472\" data-original-width=\"1840\"><source media=\"(min-width: 1240px)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com\/image\/upload\/t_fit-260w,f_avif,q_auto:eco,dpr_2\/rockcms\/2026-07\/DIFFBOT-Naot-Purini-Womens-19f2b3.webp 2x, https:\/\/media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com\/image\/upload\/t_fit-260w,f_auto,q_auto:best\/rockcms\/2026-07\/DIFFBOT-Naot-Purini-Womens-19f2b3.webp 1x\"\/><source media=\"(min-width: 1000px)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com\/image\/upload\/t_fit-260w,f_avif,q_auto:eco,dpr_2\/rockcms\/2026-07\/DIFFBOT-Naot-Purini-Womens-19f2b3.webp 2x, https:\/\/media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com\/image\/upload\/t_fit-260w,f_auto,q_auto:best\/rockcms\/2026-07\/DIFFBOT-Naot-Purini-Womens-19f2b3.webp 1x\"\/><source media=\"(min-width: 758px)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com\/image\/upload\/t_fit-360w,f_avif,q_auto:eco,dpr_2\/rockcms\/2026-07\/DIFFBOT-Naot-Purini-Womens-19f2b3.webp 2x, https:\/\/media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com\/image\/upload\/t_fit-360w,f_auto,q_auto:best\/rockcms\/2026-07\/DIFFBOT-Naot-Purini-Womens-19f2b3.webp 1x\"\/><source media=\"(min-width: 320px)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com\/image\/upload\/t_fit-320w,f_avif,q_auto:eco,dpr_2\/rockcms\/2026-07\/DIFFBOT-Naot-Purini-Womens-19f2b3.webp 2x, https:\/\/media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com\/image\/upload\/t_fit-320w,f_auto,q_auto:best\/rockcms\/2026-07\/DIFFBOT-Naot-Purini-Womens-19f2b3.webp 1x\"\/><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com\/image\/upload\/t_fit-320w,f_auto,q_auto:best\/rockcms\/2026-07\/DIFFBOT-Naot-Purini-Womens-19f2b3.webp\" alt=\"Naot Purini Flats\" height=\"1472\" width=\"1840\"\/><\/picture><\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"styles_accordion__Z2nEy styles_accordion__Z_3zC undefined styles_closed__PAn2s\" data-testid=\"accordion\" data-title=\"What to know\">\n<div aria-hidden=\"true\" aria-labelledby=\"accordion-button\" class=\"styles_accordion__content__09JIS styles_accordion__content__NO3i2 styles_closed__PAn2s\" data-testid=\"accordion__content\" role=\"region\" tabindex=\"-1\">\n<div class=\"styles_prosConsContainer__bhblj\" data-testid=\"listicle-product__pros-cons-container\" data-activity-map=\"product-article-body-naot-purini-flats\">\n<div class=\"styles_prosConsChild__qnk7K\">\n<p>What we like<\/p>\n<ul class=\"styles_prosConsItems__rVNhO\">\n<li>Work-ready look<\/li>\n<li>Strap is adjustable<\/li>\n<li>APMA-accepted brand<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p id=\"anchor-6f02f0\" class=\"body-graf\">This Mary Jane-style flat comes recommended by Landau and has a smooth leather upper for a polished look and an adjustable strap for a secure fit. A removable cork and latex footbed cushions and supports the arch, while the lightweight, slip-resistant outsole keeps you steady. <\/p>\n<p><a href=\"http:\/\/www.nbcnews.com\/select\/shopping\/best-flats-with-arch-support-rcna589466#anchor-c317c6\" id=\"anchor-c317c6\" class=\"scrollLink\"><\/p>\n<h3 class=\"body-heading\">Best wide toe box style<\/h3>\n<p><\/a><\/p>\n<div id=\"anchor-2ac3b7\">\n<div id=\"rcpd76969\" class=\"styles_product__lnrKX\" data-testid=\"article-product-unit\">\n<div class=\"listicleProduct dn-print  product__grid-container--small\" data-activity-map=\"listicle-product-article-body-birkenstock-santa-clarita-flats\" data-testid=\"product-container\">\n<div class=\"product__grid-row\">\n<div class=\"product__border\">\n<div class=\"df flex-column items-stretch product__card-container flex-row-m\">\n<div class=\"product__pictureLink product__picture-link db-m dn\"><a href=\"https:\/\/go.redirectingat.com\/?xs=1&amp;id=96128X1608993&amp;url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.birkenstock.com%2Fus%2Fsanta-clarita-natural-leather%2Fsantaclarita-smoothleather-naturalleather-S004865-eva-w_109.html&amp;sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.nbcnews.com%2Fselect%2Fshopping%2Fbestflatswitharchsupportrcna589466\" data-product-id=\"rcpd76969\" rel=\"sponsored noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\" data-testid=\"product-picture-link\" class=\"w-100\"><picture class=\"\" data-testid=\"picture\" data-flavor=\"fit\" data-original-height=\"1312\" data-original-width=\"1312\"><source media=\"(min-width: 1240px)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com\/image\/upload\/t_fit-260w,f_avif,q_auto:eco,dpr_2\/rockcms\/2026-07\/DIFFBOT-633598.jpg 2x, https:\/\/media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com\/image\/upload\/t_fit-260w,f_auto,q_auto:best\/rockcms\/2026-07\/DIFFBOT-633598.jpg 1x\"\/><source media=\"(min-width: 1000px)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com\/image\/upload\/t_fit-260w,f_avif,q_auto:eco,dpr_2\/rockcms\/2026-07\/DIFFBOT-633598.jpg 2x, https:\/\/media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com\/image\/upload\/t_fit-260w,f_auto,q_auto:best\/rockcms\/2026-07\/DIFFBOT-633598.jpg 1x\"\/><source media=\"(min-width: 758px)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com\/image\/upload\/t_fit-360w,f_avif,q_auto:eco,dpr_2\/rockcms\/2026-07\/DIFFBOT-633598.jpg 2x, https:\/\/media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com\/image\/upload\/t_fit-360w,f_auto,q_auto:best\/rockcms\/2026-07\/DIFFBOT-633598.jpg 1x\"\/><source media=\"(min-width: 320px)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com\/image\/upload\/t_fit-320w,f_avif,q_auto:eco,dpr_2\/rockcms\/2026-07\/DIFFBOT-633598.jpg 2x, https:\/\/media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com\/image\/upload\/t_fit-320w,f_auto,q_auto:best\/rockcms\/2026-07\/DIFFBOT-633598.jpg 1x\"\/><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com\/image\/upload\/t_fit-320w,f_auto,q_auto:best\/rockcms\/2026-07\/DIFFBOT-633598.jpg\" alt=\"Birkenstock Santa Clarita Flats\" height=\"1312\" width=\"1312\"\/><\/picture><\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"styles_accordion__Z2nEy styles_accordion__Z_3zC undefined styles_closed__PAn2s\" data-testid=\"accordion\" data-title=\"What to know\">\n<div aria-hidden=\"true\" aria-labelledby=\"accordion-button\" class=\"styles_accordion__content__09JIS styles_accordion__content__NO3i2 styles_closed__PAn2s\" data-testid=\"accordion__content\" role=\"region\" tabindex=\"-1\">\n<div class=\"styles_prosConsContainer__bhblj\" data-testid=\"listicle-product__pros-cons-container\" data-activity-map=\"product-article-body-birkenstock-santa-clarita-flats\">\n<div class=\"styles_prosConsChild__qnk7K\">\n<p>What we like<\/p>\n<ul class=\"styles_prosConsItems__rVNhO\">\n<li>Leather feels soft<\/li>\n<li>Available in black<\/li>\n<li>Goes up to size 12.5<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"styles_prosConsChild__qnk7K\">\n<p>Something to note<\/p>\n<ul class=\"styles_prosConsItems__rVNhO\">\n<li>Need some breaking in<\/li>\n<li>Run small<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p id=\"anchor-88f69e\" class=\"body-graf\">Podiatrists have previously recommended Birkenstocks to me as a go-to brand for <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcnews.com\/select\/shopping\/best-walking-sandals-rcna346823\" target=\"_blank\">walking sandals<\/a> because they offer a supportive, contoured footbed with built-in arch support. These ballet flat-style shoes cradle your arch and heel the way most flats never do, plus have a strap that goes across the top of your foot to keep your foot from sliding around.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"http:\/\/www.nbcnews.com\/select\/shopping\/best-flats-with-arch-support-rcna589466#anchor-afd023\" id=\"anchor-afd023\" class=\"scrollLink\"><\/p>\n<h2 class=\"body-heading\">How I picked the best flats with arch support<\/h2>\n<p><\/a><\/p>\n<p id=\"anchor-aa235c\" class=\"body-graf\">To select the best flats with arch support, I asked experts what to consider while shopping. Here are the things they suggest you prioritize: <\/p>\n<ul id=\"anchor-c9b62a\" class=\"break-above body-ul body-list-el\">\n<li><strong>Support: <\/strong>Look for a raised section in the middle of your insole \u2014 almost like a mini hill. This will tell you that the shoe has built-in arch support. Additionally, look for a flat that cups your heel to keep your foot in place. This ensures your foot doesn\u2019t move around and helps you stay steady on your feet. <\/li>\n<li><strong>Limited bendability: <\/strong>Before you buy a pair of flats, consider trying a bend test. Here\u2019s how to do it: Try bending the sole in half. You want it to be able to bend it at the ball of the foot, not at the midfoot, says Landau. Firmness from the midfoot to the heel means the shoe is more supportive, while bending at the ball gives you enough flexibility to be comfortable.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Heel drop:<\/strong> You want your flats to be, well, flat \u2014 but too flat could cause issues. That\u2019s where a heel drop comes in. Heel drop is the height difference between the heel and the forefoot of a shoe; you want the back of the shoe to be slightly more elevated than the front of the shoe. \u201cThis matches the foot anatomy more and reduces stress on your feet,\u201d says Landau. \u201cIn turn, this will reduce pain and soreness.\u201d That said, finding a decent heel drop in a flat can be difficult. Ideally, a heel drop between 7 and 10 millimeters is ideal \u2014 but you won\u2019t find that in most flats. So, the experts I spoke with suggested aiming for 3 millimeters, which should be easier to find. <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<div class=\"styles_faqEmbed___pwwo\" data-testid=\"article-faq-embed\" id=\"anchor-d5fba4\">\n<div>\n<h2 class=\"styles_faqHeadline__pt29p\"><span class=\"text\">Frequently asked questions<\/span><\/h2>\n<div data-testid=\"faq-embed__cards\">\n<div class=\"styles_faqCard___5EGp\" data-testid=\"faq-card__card\">\n<div class=\"styles_faqCardContent__Fcopg\"><button class=\"styles_faqCardQuestion__RTQxf\" type=\"button\" data-testid=\"faq-card__question\"><\/p>\n<p>What happens if you wear unsupportive flats?<\/p>\n<p><\/button><\/p>\n<div class=\"styles_faqCardAnswer__o3VoT\" data-testid=\"faq-card__answer\">\n<div>\n<p>\u201cWearing flats that aren\u2019t supportive can lead to pain in the arch, plantar heel, posterior heel and ball of foot,\u201d says Landau. \u201cIt can also cause knee, low back and hip pain.\u201d In turn, this can lead to conditions like achilles tendonitis and plantar fasciitis, which are inflammation issues that can cause ongoing pain.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"styles_faqCard___5EGp\" data-testid=\"faq-card__card\">\n<div class=\"styles_faqCardContent__Fcopg\"><button class=\"styles_faqCardQuestion__RTQxf\" type=\"button\" data-testid=\"faq-card__question\"><\/p>\n<p>Can you add insoles with arch support to flats?<\/p>\n<p><\/button><\/p>\n<div class=\"styles_faqCardAnswer__o3VoT\" data-testid=\"faq-card__answer\">\n<div>\n<p>Yes, you can absolutely add <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcnews.com\/select\/shopping\/best-insoles-rcna343479\">insoles<\/a> to your flats. Many flats do not have arch support and there are plenty of insoles out there that do not take up too much room in sleeker styles of flats, says Landau, who says she often adds her own custom insoles to her flats. Experts have previously recommended <a href=\"https:\/\/www.awin1.com\/cread.php?awinaffid=686351&amp;awinmid=42935&amp;clickref=bestflatswitharchsupportrcna589466&amp;platform=dl&amp;ued=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.aetrex.com%2Fproducts%2Fl400w-m\" data-commerce-encoding=\"true\" data-seller-id=\"ncrg1309448\" data-seller-affiliate-encoded-url=\"https:\/\/www.awin1.com\/cread.php?awinaffid=686351&amp;awinmid=42935&amp;clickref=bestflatswitharchsupportrcna589466&amp;platform=dl&amp;ued=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.aetrex.com%2Fproducts%2Fl400w-m\">Aetrex Women\u2019s Complete Orthotics<\/a> to us for their streamlined yet supportive fit.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p><a href=\"http:\/\/www.nbcnews.com\/select\/shopping\/best-flats-with-arch-support-rcna589466#anchor-428570\" id=\"anchor-428570\" class=\"scrollLink\"><\/p>\n<h2 class=\"body-heading\">Meet our foot health experts<\/h2>\n<p><\/a><\/p>\n<p id=\"anchor-f5230c\" class=\"body-graf\">At NBC Selected, we work with experts with specialized knowledge and authority based on relevant training and\/or experience. We also ensure all expert advice and recommendations are made independently and without undisclosed financial conflicts of interest.<\/p>\n<ul id=\"anchor-a5258f\" class=\"break-above body-ul body-list-el\">\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/ankleandfootcenters.com\/dr-alvarez\/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Dr. Gregory Alvarez<\/strong><\/a> is a podiatrist at the Ankle and Foot Centers of America.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Dr. Samantha Landau<\/strong> is a podiatrist and professor at <a href=\"https:\/\/nycpm.touro.edu\/\" target=\"_blank\">New York College of Podiatric Medicine at Touro University<\/a>.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><a href=\"http:\/\/www.nbcnews.com\/select\/shopping\/best-flats-with-arch-support-rcna589466#anchor-5ccc77\" id=\"anchor-5ccc77\" class=\"scrollLink\"><\/p>\n<h2 class=\"body-heading\">Why trust NBC Selected?<\/h2>\n<p><\/a><\/p>\n<p id=\"anchor-39eb67\" class=\"body-graf\">I am a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcnews.com\/author\/bethany-heitman-ncpn1300420\" target=\"_blank\">commerce editor<\/a> at NBC Selected and a journalist who regularly covers beauty, home and lifestyle. I have written about the best <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcnews.com\/select\/shopping\/best-wide-toe-box-shoes-rcna344749\" target=\"_blank\">wide toe box shoes<\/a>, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcnews.com\/select\/shopping\/best-sandals-with-arch-support-rcna158170\" target=\"_blank\">sandals with arch support<\/a> that will get you through the summer and more. For this story, I spoke with podiatrists about what to look for when shopping for flats with arch support. <\/p>\n<p id=\"anchor-dbe51d\" class=\"endmark body-graf\"><em><strong>Catch up on Selected\u2019s in-depth coverage of <\/strong><\/em><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcnews.com\/select\/tech-tools\" target=\"_blank\"><em><strong>tech and tools<\/strong><\/em><\/a><em><strong>, <\/strong><\/em><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcnews.com\/select\/wellness\" target=\"_blank\"><em><strong>wellness<\/strong><\/em><\/a><em><strong> and more, and follow us on <\/strong><\/em><a href=\"https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/NBCSelect\" target=\"_blank\"><em><strong>Facebook<\/strong><\/em><\/a><em><strong>, <\/strong><\/em><a href=\"https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/nbcselect\/\" target=\"_blank\"><em><strong>Instagram<\/strong><\/em><\/a><em><strong>, <\/strong><\/em><a href=\"https:\/\/twitter.com\/nbcselect\" target=\"_blank\"><em><strong>Twitter<\/strong><\/em><\/a><em><strong> and <\/strong><\/em><a href=\"https:\/\/www.tiktok.com\/@nbcselect\" target=\"_blank\"><em><strong>TikTok<\/strong><\/em><\/a><em><strong> to stay up to date.<\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<p><script async src=\"\/\/platform.twitter.com\/widgets.js\" charset=\"utf-8\"><\/script><script async src=\"\/\/www.instagram.com\/embed.js\"><\/script><script async src=\"\/\/www.tiktok.com\/embed.js\"><\/script><br \/>\n<br \/><script async=\"async\" data-cfasync=\"false\" src=\"https:\/\/pl30214220.effectivecpmnetwork.com\/9ab3d4df8a7e1a6171e16ddbf732cc19\/invoke.js\"><\/script>\r\n<div id=\"container-9ab3d4df8a7e1a6171e16ddbf732cc19\"><\/div>\r\n<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Flats are stylish and can certainly be more comfortable than heels, but they are not without their own issues. The problem often lies in the very name of this style of shoe. A completely flat shoe means no support \u2014 particularly arch support, which goes a long way when it comes to keeping your feet&#8230;<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":19295,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"fifu_image_url":"https:\/\/media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com\/image\/upload\/t_nbcnews-fp-1200-630,f_auto,q_auto:best\/rockcms\/2026-07\/260724-flats-with-arch-support-mm-main-7e0f23.jpg","fifu_image_alt":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[6],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-19294","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-pics-news"],"brizy_media":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/usnews-14267fa.ingress-comporellon.ewp.live\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/19294","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/usnews-14267fa.ingress-comporellon.ewp.live\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/usnews-14267fa.ingress-comporellon.ewp.live\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/usnews-14267fa.ingress-comporellon.ewp.live\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/usnews-14267fa.ingress-comporellon.ewp.live\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcomments&post=19294"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/usnews-14267fa.ingress-comporellon.ewp.live\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/19294\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/usnews-14267fa.ingress-comporellon.ewp.live\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/media\/19295"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/usnews-14267fa.ingress-comporellon.ewp.live\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fmedia&parent=19294"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/usnews-14267fa.ingress-comporellon.ewp.live\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcategories&post=19294"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/usnews-14267fa.ingress-comporellon.ewp.live\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Ftags&post=19294"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}