Foot knowledge

Flat feet: What they are & how the right shoes can help

While flat feet are incredibly common, that doesn’t mean they should be ignored. If your feet tire easily, your arches seem to disappear when standing, or your feet ache after a long day, flat feet may be the reason. With the right support, many women with flat feet can walk much more comfortably. And yes, good shoes can make a huge difference.

More about flat feet

What are flat feet?

People with flat feet have little to no visible arch on the inside of the foot. When standing, the entire sole of the foot may touch the ground.

Some people are born with flat feet, while others develop them over time due to aging, pregnancy, injuries, or years of strain on the feet (often caused by unsupportive shoes).

Flat feet are not automatically a problem. But for some people, they can lead to discomfort and fatigue because the feet don’t absorb shock and support the body as efficiently.

Common symptoms of flat feet

Common symptoms of flat feet include aching feet after standing or walking, tired feet, pain in the arch or heel, swelling along the inside of the foot, ankle instability, and knee, hip, or lower back discomfort.

Why good shoes matter

When you have flat feet, proper support is key. Shoes that are too flat, flimsy, or unsupportive can put extra strain on the feet. Good shoes help support the foot in a more natural position and improve comfort throughout the day.

Wolky feature for flat feet

Arch support

Good arch support is one of the most important features for flat feet. Because the natural arch of the foot provides less support on its own, the feet – and often the ankles, knees, and back too – have to work harder while walking.

Shoes with proper arch support help distribute pressure more evenly across the foot and support a more natural foot position. This can help reduce fatigue and discomfort.

Wolky feature for flat feet

Stability

Flat feet often cause the feet to roll inward while walking, which can lead to instability and extra strain on the body. Shoes with good stability help keep the foot properly support and aligned throughout the walking motion. Stable soles and supportive footbeds help create a steadier, more confident step, especially when standing or walking for long periods.

Featured styles

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Jewel – linen leather

$275.00

Bliss XW – denim leather

$260.00

Fortune – red leather

$275.00

Jewel – inox leather

$275.00

Feel XW – red leather

$260.00

Explore flat feet

Best shoes for fallen arches

If you have fallen arches (aka flat feet), you know the struggle is real. Whether you’re running errands, chasing after kids, or just trying to make it through the day without aching feet, the best shoes for fallen arches can make all the difference. Not all shoes are created equal! The good news? Wolky’s got your back (and your feet!). As a Dutch brand with over 40 years of experience in crafting comfortable, supportive, and high-quality shoes, we know exactly what your feet need. So, let’s dive into the best shoes for fallen arches and why Wolky should be your go-to.

Do flat feet cause wearing down of heels in shoes?

Ever feel like your heels wear out way too fast? Like your favorite shoes are giving up on life way before their time? If you’ve got flat feet, that might just be the culprit. So yes, flat feet can definitely contribute to uneven heel wear in shoes.

Why trust Wolky

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Designed in-house with comfort in mind, made by hand

Made with premium leathers and materials built to last

Family-owned craftsmanship for over 40 years

Removable footbeds – compatible with custom orthotics

Let us guide you

→ How to measure your foot

→ Why do my feet hurt?

→ Are Wolky shoes true to size?

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Flat feet: What they are & how the right shoes can help

More about flat feet

Arch support

Stability

Featured styles