7 Best Cross Training Shoes for Flat Feet in 2024

The best cross training shoes for flat feet can be made of many different materials, as long as they are durable and provide you with a firmer sole. Flat feet cross training shoes should also give you plenty of traction and grip, so you can workout safely in different environments. Lastly, the best gym shoes for flat feet should have a breathable upper, to keep the feet cool during the workout.

20 pairs of cross training shoes for flat feet were tested and compared by our expert team that consists of professional athletes, certified experts, coaches, and medical professionals. They carefully examined them and only 7 were considered to be the best and have made it to this list.

Our experts spent more than 500 hours testing the shoes, and in addition to this, they have also analyzed hundreds of online reviews. The shoes were evaluated on 5 key criteria to bring you the most straightforward, detailed information. We’re always updating this list, so leave us a comment and let’s chat!

Top 7 Best Cross Training Shoes for Flat Feet Reviewed

1. Reebok Nano X2 – Top Pick
2. Nike Metcon 8 – Runner-Up
3. Reebok Nano 9.0
4. INOV-8 F-Lite 260 V2
5. Nobull Trainer+
6. Nanoflex TR Training Shoes – Budget Pick
7. Goruck Ballistic Trainers – For General Fitness

Product	Total	Stability	Material	Durability	Comfort	Grip
Reebok Nano X2	49	9.5	10	10	9.5	10
Nike Metcon 8	48	9	10	10	9	10
Reebox Nano 9.0	47	9	9.5	9.5	10	9
INOV-8 F-Lite 260 V2	46.5	9	9	9.5	9	10
Nobull Trainer+	46	9.5	10	10	8	8.5
Nanoflex TR Training Shoes	45.5	8.5	9	8.5	10	9.5
Goruck Ballistic Trainers	45	9	9.5	9.5	8	9

1. Top Pick: Reebok Nano X2

• Heel Lift Height: 7mm
• Sole Material: Injection EVA
• Upper Material: Flexweave and plastic
• Sizing: Recommend you size down
• Weight: 10.2 oz

The Reebok Nano X2 is made of EVA material which is considered very lightweight and flexible. This is great if you’re planning on doing training that involves a lot of moving around and sprinting. However, the material has some drawbacks as it can be too flexible for weight training where you’d rather have firmer soles. A firmer sole allows for better ground contact, which is ideal when you’re performing movements like squats and deadlifts.

But the lightweight and flexible nature of the shoes does aid comfort, which is always important. Another thing that helps comfort is the construction of the upper material. The flex weave and plastic combination is supposed to enhance the breathability of the shoe, so you should feel good wearing it.

The toe box is also wider than normal, so you feel comfortable in the shoes. However, the shoe has a slimmer design, which means if you have wide feet, you could feel constricted in them. This issue has mainly to do with the midfoot as there is a wider toe box than normal, which can be ideal for flat-footed athletes.

Even though the midsole of the foot isn’t ideal for weight training, the heel lift does accommodate well for movements like squats as the extra heel material makes it easier to get into proper squat form.

While the grip of the shoes has been tested on surfaces like concrete, tarmac, gym floor, and wood, and it holds up in all of these different environments. As for durability, several components of the shoe come reinforced such as the heel clip, toe box, and eyelets. This is a big reason why the Nano X2 is an excellent cross trainer for flat feet.

2. Runner Up: Nike Metcon 8

• Heel Lift Height: 4mm
• Sole Material: Nike React Foam
• Upper Material: Mesh
• Sizing: Fit to size
• Weight: 12.5oz

The Nike Metcon 8’s are made of Nike’s special react foam material, which is designed to be very responsive and soft. It is a synthetic rubber that provides responsive cushioning to your soles, while also being springy and stable. This unique combination makes these shoes stand out from other cross trainers. This is why they are the best workout shoes for flat feet.

The responsiveness of the midsole is in full effect when you perform various kinds of workouts. Although the shoe aims to deliver a comfortable and safe product for different running training, you can still use them for weight lifting and feel the same stability.

While compared to their previous products, the upper material has been re-engineered to provide more durability to the shoe, while keeping it as lightweight as possible. However, there are better materials for this than mesh.

Another part of the shoe that could have required some changes is the heel. Although the heel provides stability because of how wide the base is, it can be a little uncomfortable for running. But they somewhat make up for this by having grooves in the shoes' soles, which allow the forefront to bend naturally.

As for the grip, the shoes come with rubber wraps, which run alongside the arch. This should give you a firm grip for activities like rope climbing.

One thing the Metcon’s have going for them is that they have many custom options. You can pick from several different colorways and even tinker around with the design of the shoe, so at the end of it, you’ll have something uniquely your own.

3. Reebok Nano 9.0

• Heel Lift Height: 4mm
• Sole Material: Rubber
• Upper Material: Flexweave
• Sizing: Recommend you size down
• Weight: 12.8oz

The Nano 9.0 comes with flexweave technology for a more durable and flexible upper. Plus, the flexweave pattern provides plenty of breathability, so you won’t feel your feet overheating at any point. While the midsole has a single-density foam to give you a firmer rear foot. As for the heel, it is both stiff and padded, which can cause some irritation at first, but once you break the shoe in, you shouldn’t feel any discomfort.

However, the shoe is lacking some grip on the outsole, which is less than ideal for outdoor activities such as distance running. Especially if the surface is wet. So, this factor can limit the versatility of these cross trainers. However, they do come with RopePro tech, which provides you with traction for activities like rope climbing.

As for weightlifting, the shoe works great because of the wide heel and the firm sole. This gives you plenty of stability and you feel your foot is in contact with the ground throughout the lift, which makes it easier to generate power and balance.

While the shoe might lack proper gripping in the outsole, it does have rubber in the front of the foot, which makes it easier to do athletic movements like burpees or jumps, without damaging the shoe or your feet.

They also come with a wider toe box, which works well if you’re flat-footed. Typically, many trainers have a narrower middle or front of the shoe, which can feel constraining. You don’t have to worry about that with these ones.

The Nano’s are great unisex shoes, so they are one of the best workout shoes for women with flat feet and men.

4. INOV-8 F-Lite 260 V2

• Heel Lift Height: 8mm
• Sole Material: Rubber
• Upper Material: Knitted
• Sizing: True-to-size
• Weight: 9.1oz

The INOV-8 F-Lite 260 V2’s are lightweight shoes, which now come with a gripper outsole. The sole is made of sticky grip rubber, which provides traction in all kinds of environments including wet and outdoor surfaces. The rubber is also graphene-infused, which means that it’s more durable and has even more grip than your typical rubber material. The grip isn’t just for your midsole, rather it goes all the way to the toes, so you can perform exercises like rope climbs easier.

While the Powerflow midsole is more shock-absorbent than many of the other midsole materials, which makes these shoes ideal for jumping and athletic types of training.

While, like most shoes, the upper material is constructed with breathability in mind. However, it is not reinforced with anything to ensure more longevity.

There is also a slight issue with the design of the show. It has a narrow mid-foot, which might be uncomfortable for people with wider feet. While flat-footed users might find the lack of arch support uncomfortable.

Also, the shoe is more expensive than other cross-trainers. But, you are getting a high-quality, specialized shoe, which is very versatile. So, the price is justified for weight training shoes for flat feet.

5. Nobull Trainer+

• Heel Lift Height: 4mm
• Sole Material: EVA
• Upper Material: SuperFabric
• Sizing: True-to-size
• Weight: 12.9oz

The Nobull Trainer+ are some of the most durable shoes out there. With a carbon rubber outsole and a SuperFabric upper material, you’ll have both the durability to perform indoor and outdoor activities, while also having a very breathable shoe. On top of that, the heel of the shoe is reinforced as well, so you won’t find yourself having to deal with a damaged heel from cross-training.

As for comfort, the tongue is made of suede, which can minimize any rubbing or irritation you might feel. Especially with a new shoe that usually requires a few sessions to break. There is further heel and collar padding to increase comfort and an anatomical sock liner, which moulds to the shape of your foot.

While the midsole has minimal cushioning, which is good for stability as you’ll feel the ground better when performing squats or deadlifts. However, there is a drawback as less cushioning means less protection for the soles of your feet. This can limit the use of the shoe.

Plus, EVA midsoles tend to have some stability issues when you have to do fast-moving, athletic workouts. The flatness of the shoe can also be a drawback because the lack of arch support can be uncomfortable. The lack of arch support might once again limit the versatility of the shoe as it would be difficult to do long-form running activities.

6. Budget Pick: Nanoflex TR Training Shoes

• Heel Lift Height: 0mm
• Sole Material: Rubber
• Upper Material: Mesh
• Sizing: True-to-size
• Weight: 10oz

The Nanoflex TR Training Shoes come at a budget-friendly price point largely because they don’t have any specialized specs in terms of material construction. Typical cross training shoes have rubber soles, mesh uppers, and some kind of EVA foam for the midsoles. That’s exactly what these shoes have. However, the shoes do come with a flex groove outsole, which makes the shoe more flexible, so you feel more natural walking and running in them. However, unlike other shoes that have mesh uppers, these don’t come with flexweave technology to enhance durability.

They also provide arch support, which isn’t typical for cross trainers, so that’s a big plus. Especially if you’re planning on using these shoes for running training. While the rubber soles do provide you with a good enough grip for most activities, there is no medial rope grip.

However, there is a drawback in the design of the shoe, which has been a common problem with several cross trainers. The shoe is narrow fitting, making it difficult for people with wider feet to wear them comfortably. The narrowness of the shoe also calls into question the stability as there are balance concerns with the narrow toe box. Having balance and stability concerns is less than ideal for weight training where you want something firmer that gives you more control.

7. For General Fitness: Goruck Ballistic Trainers

• Heel Lift Height: 8mm
• Sole Material: Rubber EVA
• Upper Material: Engineered Knit
• Sizing: Recommend a half size smaller than the usual fit
• Weight: 10.8

The Goruck Ballistic Trainers come with gradient-dense midsoles, which enhances the stability of the shoe. The cushioned soles make the shoe ideal for jumping and explosive movements. While the dense and stiff heel, combined with the gradient-dense midsoles, is great for heavy lifting. The cushioning of the shoes is further enhanced by the polyurethane insert, which contours to your foot and arch.

However, although the shoe has some cushioning, the amount of it is better used for shorter distances. If you wish to perform regular long-distance walks or runs, you might find the cushioning is lacking a little bit.

The back two-thirds of the shoe also has ballistic nylon material, which is used to make the shoe more durable and long-lasting. So, it’s made to handle the typical wear and tear a cross training shoe might go through.

However, there are some drawbacks to using this material. Although you’re getting a more flexible and durable shoe, the high-quality material means a higher price point.

As for the grip, the shoe is constructed using different types of rubber and one reason for that is to make sure you have plenty of traction. There is a suction cup pattern on the tip of the toes and lateral forefoot, which gives you a feeling of control and stability even when you’re on wet surfaces.

Do You Really Have Flat Feet?

Flat feet are when you have little to no arch in your foot. So, when you’re standing the entire sole of your foot touches the ground. However, there are different types of flat feet. One is a flexible flat foot where you do have an arch as long as you don’t put pressure on your foot. Meaning, that arch disappears when you stand up.

Another is through the tightness of your tendons or shin muscles, which prevents your foot from performing their natural movement and over time, you can lose your arch and develop flat feet.

With all of that being said, the best and easiest way to see if you have flat feet is to dip your foot in some water and then stand on a bathroom title or concrete and see the imprint left behind by your foot. You have flat feet if you can see almost the entirety of your foot.

How To Choose Cross Training Shoes For Flat Feet

1. Sole & Arch Support

A firm yet slightly flexible sole for a shoe works best for flat feet. This is because the sole of your feet will continually make contact with the ground, so you need something firm in between your sole and the ground to lessen the impact. If the sole has too much cushion, you might feel unstable using the shoes because of the lack of ground contact.

Additionally, having an arch to your shoe is a good idea as well. The arch will help take pressure away from the midfoot, which can also lessen the risk of injuries. However, arch has more to do with preferences. If you naturally don’t have an arch in your foot, then having no arch in your shoes is fine. But if you’re flat footedness was a result of injury or posture issues, then having an arch in your shoes can help.

2. Heel Support

An issue with flat feet can be that your heel raises before the rest of your foot. This can lead to injuries and the overuse of your midfoot. So, having a raised heel can be good because that will keep your heel in contact with the ground long enough for your foot to move as a singular unit.

A raised heel will also take more pressure off of the rest of your foot. Just an inch or two of heel height works, so you don’t need to buy one with an exaggerated heel lift.

3. More Toe Room

Another thing to take into consideration when buying a cross training shoe if you have flat feet is the width of the shoe. This means, how much room do your feet have inside the shoe? A flat-footed individual tends to use their toe area more when moving and running and finding balance. So, you want a shoe that provides you with plenty of room and doesn’t constrict your toes together.

What's The Difference Between A Cross Training Shoe And A Walking Shoe?

1. Design

A walking shoe usually has a low, rounded heel and is typically lightweight, so you can walk for a long time comfortably. The soles of a walking shoe are also thinner because you don’t need that extra protection. After all, the impact on the ground is minimal.

While a cross training shoe will have to take into consideration different terrains and uses of the shoe, so the design tends to reflect this. This might mean a slimmer design or a wider toe box, and different types of patterns on the soles to increase traction and grip.

2. Support

The main differences lie in the support. Cross training shoes are focused more on supporting your foot. So, you will have the option of thicker soles, firmer soles, cushioned heels, elevated heels, tighter laces, and more ankle support with a cross training shoe.

Meanwhile, a walking shoe doesn’t have to take into consideration so many things. Their main goal is to provide you with something comfortable and breathable. So, at most, they will be looking at softer insoles or a flexible forefront so it bends naturally as you walk or jog.

3. Versatility

A walking shoe can be used for more than just walking, but if you’re planning on hiking on different terrains or using the shoes for athletic workouts, you might find them limited because of the lack of sole support and firmness. That’s where cross training shoes have an edge as their supportive nature allows them to be used for multiple different purposes.

While a walking shoe is true to its name for the most part. You’ll mainly only use it for walking or low-intensive cardio like a light jog on a stable surface.

FAQ

Are Wide Shoes Better For Flat Feet?

A wider shoe can benefit people with flat feet. If you have flat feet, then it’s more likely that you use your toe area when walking and running. So, it’s better to have more room, which is easier to get when you pick a wide shoe over a narrower one.

What Advantages Do Flat Feet Have?

There are a few advantages flat-footed athletes have. One is that they have better balance and stability. The reason is pretty simple. More of your foot is in contact with the ground, so it’s easier to spread the weight across a wider surface area and gain proper balance and stability.

Another advantage is that a flat-footed athlete can generate more speed. Once again, the more surface area you have in contact with, the more force and power you can generate. This can be translated into speed with the proper technique.

Conclusion

The best fitness shoes for flat feet should be versatile so you can perform various different workouts in different environments. Also, durability is a major factor because you’ll be using the shoes often and putting them through tough workouts. Lastly, you want a wider shoe, so you can feel more comfortable wearing them.

The Reebok Nano X2 is one that comes to mind, which fits all of these criteria.

What do you look for in cross training shoes? If you have flat feet, are there any specific workouts you do to address them? Do you prefer a firmer sole or a flexible one?

Let’s discuss all of this and any other questions you might have in the comment section below!

Also read:

• Best Deadlift Slippers
• Converse as Lifting Shoes
• Wide Weightlifting Shoes
• High Top Lifting Shoes
• Best Olympic Lifting Shoes
• Cheapest Weightlifting Shoes
• Flat Shoes for Squats
• Best Squat Shoes
• Are Wrestling Shoes Good For Lifting
• Best Nobull Sneakers

References:

1. Are There Any Advantages To Having Flat Feet? // Orthofeet: https://www.orthofeet.com/blogs/news/wide-width-shoes
2. The 10 Best Weighted Vest Exercises for Building Muscle // Help Shoe: https://helpshoe.com/advantages-flat-feet/#Advantages_Of_Having_Flat_Feet