Finding ordinary shoes for flat feet can be hard enough, but finding work boots is even tougher! Let’s face it, flat feet are a pain in the…foot. At one time, it was guaranteed to get you a 4F dismissal from military service. (Today, with most of the fighting done from a computer, just how debilitating your flat feet are would be negotiable grounds.)
Roughly twenty to thirty percent of the population suffers from fallen arches so you are not alone with your problem. For some people, this is a congenital problem brought on by a genetic fluke. Nerve damage and arthritis can lead to fallen arches as can obesity, diabetes, and hypertension. If your feet are flat due to pregnancy, you are urged to stay off roofs in any case.
Sometimes flat feet are just part of the aging process. The author knows from experience how futile it is to talk someone out of doing something due to their age, so you might as well keep reading to find out what the best boots for flat feet are.
The Three Things Every Work Boot for Flat Feet Should Have
- Sole Support If you are troubled by flat feet, you will need to use boots that have a strong, thick, and solid sole that provides pliability for any type of movement you need to perform at your job. This will also see to it that you do not experience any pain in the soles of your foot. Thusly, if you have to choose, a boot that has shock absorbing abilities and a thick sole is always a great choice over anything else. This is especially true if you are already experiencing regular aches and discomfort due to flat feet.
- Durability As with any work boot, you will need to opt for something strong and durable that stands up to the test of time while protecting your feet in any sort of situation. The reason for this is because if you choose boots that are inferior quality and not durable, then they will fall apart quite quickly after only a few months of use. What’s more, your feet, which are in need of special care given their condition, will not be secured and taken care of. Leather and rubber are generally the most ubiquitous materials work boots are made from. While it is true that each one is slightly different, try to search for boots that are known to use high-quality versions of these materials.
- Comfort. The most crucial thing to think about in a work boot if you have flat feet is the comfort, particularly a type of comfort that lasts for long stretches of time. The benefit of purchasing a pair of work boots that is really comfortable is the ability to alleviate the pain you must suffer from having flat feet. This on its own is reason enough to pick out a high-quality boot that has this feature.
The Reviews:
Flat feet can be annoying especially when you are on the lookout for the appropriate footwear. To make your job easier, we have compiled a list of the five boots that we believe will be of good help to your flat feet condition. Check them all and pick the one that is best suited to your needs.
1. Georgia Boot Georgia Giant – Wellington
- These are extremely secure boots with a cushioned insole.
- The rubber sole is slip-resistant, making it great for use on wet floors.
- It has an oil-resistant bumper guard that will keep you from spreading oil all over the place.
- The high-performance lining will keep your foot very well protected from extremely high and low temperatures.
- The repairable Goodyear welt construction ensures that you bought a really durable work boot. It is lightweight yet sturdy.
- This reliable boot features an earthy brown full-grain leather foot beneath a matching eleven-inch pull-on leather shaft.
- It has a round, soft toe and a sensible one and a quarter inch heel.
- It is constructed of rubber, mesh, genuine leather and nylon.
Pros:
- These boots are comfortable enough for everyday use.
- They look good, work hard, play hard.
- They’re very well built.
- Even people who have nerve damage find them comfortable.
- Finding a good fit does not seem to be an issue and comes in wide sizes.
- All Georgia products have a one-year limited warranty.
- The notched corners add greater flexibility.
Cons:
- The leather is a bit stiff when new and takes a while to break in, particularly around the ankles, but once it’s in it’s in.
- Hope you like brown! That is the only color they come in.
- The boots can be described as better as “water-resistant” than waterproof.
- They run a little on the big side, so you may need to wear extra thick socks.
- Made in the Dominican Republic.
2. Timberland PRO Men’s Soft Toe Boot
- The Timberland PRO Pit Boss soft toe is what a durable work boot is expected to be.
- It is safe, tough and comfortable; the three things a work boot needs to be.
- These leather work boots are up to ANSI safety standards and feature slip, oil and abrasion-resistant outsoles for increased traction.
- They provide a very pliant midsole that is made of plastic which makes it good and lightweight.
- In addition, they also have an antimicrobial treated footbed to give you supreme comfort and breathability to your feet at any temperature.
- It comes with a six-inch oiled full-grain leather contoured footbed for comfort that is easily removable.
- It is made with Goodyear Welt Construction and has a Slip/Oil and abrasion-resistant outsole.
- It comes in brown and wheat.
Pros:
- They look great and they fit great.
- They’re incredibly comfortable and can take a lot of damage before showing it.
- Timberland has some excellent customer service.
- Boots like these can stand being through quite a bit of abuse, whether you are into hunting, fishing, outdoor work, hiking, and anything else you might do.
- The fit is perfect and has ample room for wool socks.
- This boot also features a roomier toe box, which means no foot pain even after many hours on your feet.
- It has also got a nonpareil traction-grip for working on wet or slippery surfaces.
- Another boon is the electrical hazard protection that will keep you safe from open circuits.
- As for being comfortable, a removable insole proves that blisters do not necessarily have to accompany hard work.
Cons:
- The shoelaces can be hard to pull right on the bottom half, causing them to end up loosening on the quick laces.
- As these are Timberland’s Pro line, they aren’t made to the same standard as their fashion line.
- That certainly does not mean that they are of poor quality.
- Quite the contrary, it simply means that they were never intended to look as stylish as the more fashionable line of Timberlands.
- If you want to buy boots as a fashion statement, buy the more expensive, non-Pro model if that would suit you better.
3. Caterpillar Men’s Diagnostic Waterproof Steel-Toe Work Boot
- These are boots made to support the natural movement of your foot.
- These Ergo Collection boots are anatomically accurate to give you greater stability, flexibility, and comfort.
- These boots are designed to withstand the elements in style.
- Cat Footwear’s men’s waterproof boots amalgamate durability with style and comfort features that work hard whether on or off the job site.
- All boots in this collection have a breathable lining, steel shanks, and nonslip outsoles that go the distance.
- Some styles provide the extra strength of a steel toe, while others have a comfortable soft toe.
- Whatever waterproof style you opt for, you’ll enjoy all-day dryness, comfort, and support.
- It has an all-leather construction.
- The sole is made of rubber.
- This is a well-insulated work boot that is waterproof and features antiqued lacing hardware and a contrast tone at toe and collar.
- It has a removable EVA foam insert with gel technology.
- Natural leather is breathable.
- A rubber sole is shock-absorbing.
- An insulated boot is warm and comfortable.
- Waterproof boots make healthy feet.
- The foam insert is comfortable and is convenient for changing.
Pros:
- They are thick, comfortable, durable and easy to clean.
- They have excellent heel support.
Cons:
- They lose their waterproof feature after two months.
- They are not ideal for ground workers.
4. KEEN Utility Men’s Flint Low Work Shoe
- This is an ankle-cut work boot with removable footbed and non-marking sole.
- It has got a padded tongue and collar for extra comfort.
- It is one hundred percent leather with a rubber sole.
- In order to treat everyday wear and tear, especially on paler color leathers, it is recommended that you use a leather cleaner and conditioner.
- The shoe also has breathable mesh panels to provide ventilation for this versatile, light-duty work boot.
- A dual-density midsole provides cushioning and a stability shank gives you the support you need for long stretches of time on your feet.
- It comes in Slate Black and Burnt Henna.
Pros:
- KEEN Utility boots come with asymmetrical toe protection.
- They are specifically made to fit your left and right foot, guarding everything from the big toe to the little toe from bumps and bangs.
- KEEN patented toe protection keeps your toes safe from any accident by combining functional design and innovative shape.
- The intuitive toe box is more natural, snug fit in the heel and a more spacious.
- This creates a unique, one of a kind work shoe.
- The metatomical footbed design is what everyone who has fallen arches dreams of.
- It is engineered perfectly to provide superior arch support and cradle the natural contours of the foot.
Cons:
- They are not at all waterproof and so would be better suited to indoor work.
- The top plastic tabs stick out a bit too much, creating something of a tripping hazard.
- The plastic eyelets are not very durable.
- It is not the hardiest of work boots.
- Once more, it is probably best suited for indoor work.
5. Wolverine Men’s Buccaneer Boot
- This hardy waterproof boot gives you supreme flexibility with every step due to its Wolverine Contour Welt construction.
- The thick removable cushioning in the footbed will keep your feet good and comfortable.
- This is an ankle-high work boot with a leather upper that comes with multi-shock compression pads molded in the outsole and moisture-managing mesh lining.
- It is pure leather with a rubber sole.
- The toe is soft and flexible.
- The leather they use is waterproof so that is extremely impermeable to any kind of liquid.
- On top of everything, the all-over strength and ruggedness make your feet feel protected at all times.
Pros:
- These work boots offer a superior quality of foot support from use in daily tasks to tough work activities.
- This makes them the number one option for workers who suffer from flat feet.
- This is all due to the Wolverine MultiShox system which has a removable full-cushion insole and a rubber outsole for the best comfort.
- And what’s more, they have a flexible contour welt that molds itself to your every movement.
- These are boots that can keep your feet comfortable all day plus provide protection and traction. It doesn’t hurt that they look good at the same time!
Cons:
- Dark brown seems to be the only color available.
- Like all leather products, they take a while to break in and scuff easily.
- The uppermost lace hooks tend to be somewhat weak.
- Keep in mind that if any shoe has a removable feature it is because this feature wears out easily and needs to be replaced often.
How To Buy Boots For Flat Feet
After you get your boots, try them late in the day after your feet have swollen. This especially applies to people with flat feet who need the ultimate comfort. If you have one foot larger than the other, get that one fitted first. You can always wear thick socks to make a loose shoe feel more snug or do up the laces.
Nothing will make a too-tight shoe feel looser. Keep in mind that brands are not uniform when it comes to size. Even within the same brand, there may be size differences. Wear the same socks that you plan on wearing with the shoes. If you usually wear heavy socks, see to it that’s what you have on when you try on shoes.
Wiggle your toes to make sure you have some room for flexibility. Take a walk around to see how they feel. Feel free to hop, jump or stand on tiptoe. If your feet are unusually wide, get a wide size or go up a size.
Otherwise, just go with the usual features you would look for in a work boot. You need laces that will tie properly and not present a tripping hazard. The boots should be able to stand any weather or harsh conditions. They must have deep lugs and thin treads. It must not damage the surface you are working on. For someone with flat feet, a comfortable shoe is of vital importance.
What Can Be Done About Flat Feet
Generally, nothing short of reconstructive surgery will completely cure pes planus, the medical term for flat feet. This is a drastic measure with long-reaching consequences, medical risks and a sizable recovery period that should only be taken if you are in severe, constant pain and/or unable to walk. There are gymnastics, exercise, massage and acupuncture techniques that reduce pain in the tendons.
A tight calf muscle is often the culprit in flat feet. A runner’s stretch or the downward dog yoga position might help matters as could the practice of picking up small objects with your foot. There are removable corrective arch supports or orthotics you can put in your shoes. Some people with flat feet have found that plantar fasciitis shoe inserts to be an excellent solution.
All you have to do is just slip them in your shoes and get instant relief. Today, many shoes now come with arch support for flat feet in the form of raised insoles. Going barefoot (in a safe environment, of course) can train the muscles in the foot to become stronger. In any case, have a long discussion with your podiatrist about what would be the best way for you to treat your fallen arches.
Frequently asked Questions
Is having flat feet really that big a problem?
It can be if you ignore it. As time passes, the pains may start to get worse until one day you realize the suffering is so unbearable that you find that you cannot even stand on your feet. The pain might be worst in the heel or arch area of your foot combined with swelling in the ankle.
The pain can even work its way up the leg all the way to the hip and lower back. If you find yourself distressed by such pain often or if it becomes too serious and just the idea standing makes you want to scream, you may want to go to your doctor for advice and additional treatment.
What is the treatment for flat feet?
If you are in pain, different people have different ways of dealing with it. Good old aspirin or ibuprofen might do the trick. Your doctor may prescribe something stronger if over the counter medication is not working. Hot or cold therapy may be combined with medication.
Some people like to use herbal remedies like ginseng, kava-kava and valerian root. Tell your doctor or pharmacist what herbal supplements and other medication you take as some cannot be safely combined. Some people cope with yoga and meditation. Elevating the foot may improve circulation. A soak with warm water and Epsom salts may be what you need. Find out what works for you and go with it.
As for the foot itself, well-fitted and supportive shoes may be all that is really needed. Look for something with a wide fit. Wearing an ankle brace temporarily may be beneficial. Devices such as fitted insoles and orthotics or custom-designed arch supports can relieve pressure on the arch and even reduce pain if the feet roll too far inward.
Do keep in mind, these accessories will only treat the symptoms and do not provide much in the way of long-lasting benefits. You may hate to hear this, but if the problem is exacerbated by obesity, dieting could help. Keep tabs with your doctor. If worst comes to worst, surgery may be the only way.
What are the best exercises for flat feet?
You may need to relax your Achilles tendon to keep your foot from rolling inward. The best way to do this is heel cord stretching. To do this, first, stand and face a wall and place a hand flat on it at eye level. Place the leg that needs to be stretched just one step behind the other leg. You must then plant the heel firmly on the ground.
Bend the knee of your front leg until you feel a stretch in the back leg. Hold this for thirty seconds then rest for thirty seconds. Do nine reps of this. Do not arch your back at any time. Just keep it straight as you can. Do this exercise twice daily for best results.
Another simple exercise can be done while watching TV or doing work at your desk. Sit in a chair so that your feet firmly touch the floor. Place a golf ball under your foot and roll it around for two minutes at a time before switching feet. This will stretch the plantar fascia ligament.
Could a removable insole help?
Indeed, it could. Do remember that it is of utmost importance to choose an insole that gives you just the perfect balance of structure, flexibility, and stability. What is also essential is the right amount of cushioning for shock absorption.
You must make sure that padding is bouncy and supportive and will not compress after only being used a few times. A dearth of shock absorption can result in a great deal of pain in your lower back and joints. Even the right insoles can feel strange at first. It may take a few days or so for your misaligned ligaments and muscles to become adaptable to correction.
How effective are insoles?
First, you must realize the arch support insoles cannot in actuality “cure” flat feet. As it is, flat feet can cause a plethora of harmful symptoms in the feet. Fortunately, most of these symptoms can be treated, and in many cases relieved, by arch support insoles.
One of the important matters to correctly opting for an over-the-counter arch support insole is first understanding what “flat feet” are. Hopefully, by now you understand what flat feet are and how to treat them. This along with the proper insole can go a long way to providing you with maximum foot comfort.
How do I pick the right insoles?
It is vital to choose an insole that is neither too rigid, nor too pliable. An insole that is too solid provides little to no shock absorption during activity. When you apply force to this type of device, the material or design of the insole does not compress as much as it should. This results in the shock generated from your foot striking the ground being transmitted back into the joints of your body. This may often lead to pain in the back, knee, and ankle.
On the opposing end of the spectrum, an insole that is a little too cushioned may feel comfortable initially. However, due to the inadequacy of support such devices may often fail to ameliorate the symptoms caused by flat feet. These sorts of insoles are quite often fabricated from a compressed foam material. It is generally plainly visible within the initial few uses that the support provided is not enough.
How do I clean leather shoes?
First, remove the laces. They are machine washable. You then use a soft cloth or a brush to remove any dirt that may be attached to the shoe’s leather surfaces. Once you’ve done that, mix a solution of warm water and mild dish soap. Dip a soft cloth into it, wring it out and wipe the outside part of the shoe. Use a second clean, damp cloth to wipe off all of the soap. Dry it thoroughly with a towel.
Now it’s time to condition the leather to protect from stains and add shine. Many shoe manufacturers make and sell their own conditioner but you can do it yourself with a blend of 1 part vinegar to 2 parts linseed oil. Apply this to the leather and let sit for about 15 minutes.
Then you can buff with a soft cloth until you get that reflective shine everyone wants. Allow your shoes and boots to dry in the open air. Do not leave them in the sun or by a heater. This will likely cause the leather to fade or crack.
If you have difficult stains, the remedy may be in your own medicine cabinet. If it is a grease or oil stain, baking soda or cornstarch could work if you rub it in gently with a damp cloth and let it sit overnight. An ink stain can be removed by lightly blotting it with a cotton swab dipped in nail polish remover or rubbing alcohol.
Scuffs can be cleaned with non-gel toothpaste and a soft cloth. For anything else, try mixing equal parts of cream of tartar and lemon juice into a paste. Let it sit on the stain for 30 minutes and remove with a damp cloth. This may have a mild bleaching effect so use it only on light-colored leather.
Conclusion
Flat feet can be a serious condition, but you should not let it prevent you from working, playing and living a normal lifestyle. Shop around and you may find a shoe that works the best for you and your feet. You need to look for all the details and features someone would look for in an ordinary work boot plus a few additional features that would aid you in dealing with fallen arches.
The boot should have a supportive sole, durability and the best comfort you can find. If you can, try them on and see how they fit. Your foot should be able to move comfortably within the shoe. Remember that the right pair of socks can be almost as important as the right kind of shoes.
As for the flat feet themselves, there are many varied ways to treat them. Go over it with your doctor to find out what the best course of action to take would be. If this is a condition you have always had, it may never be completely reversed but it can be dealt with. Sometimes a lifestyle change may be in order.
Changes are never easy, but if it is your health and well-being on the line you may have to seriously consider it. Exercise can stretch your muscles to make it easier for your legs and feet to bear the tension and may burn off a few calories if it is the extra weight that is exacerbating the problem. Eat healthily and make sure your feet get the right balance of rest and exercise.
It is hoped that you have found this article helpful and will aid you in finding the perfect shoes for your foot condition. Take care of yourself and you will feel much better.
