The best trail running shoes for overpronation and flat feet

How they compare

How stability works on trails

Road stability shoes guide your foot on flat, even ground. On trails every step lands differently, so a firm post under the arch helps less. What helps more is a wide base, a midsole that doesn't squash too much, and sidewalls that cradle the foot.

In a blinded trial of 372 runners, those with pronated feet had fewer injuries in motion control shoes than in standard ones. If a more supportive shoe feels better to you, that's a good reason to choose one.

What to look for

A wide platform, especially under the heel. A firm, protective midsole rather than a very soft one. A secure heel and midfoot, so your foot doesn't roll inside the shoe on cambered paths.

Frequently asked questions

Are there stability trail running shoes?

A handful, but most supportive trail shoes are neutral shoes with a wide base and firm sidewalls. For most runners with flat feet, that's enough.

Can I put my orthotics in trail shoes?

Usually, yes. Take out the shoe's own insole and check your heel still sits securely.

Do flat feet need stability shoes on trails?

Not necessarily. Comfort is the best guide. If you feel your feet roll in on longer runs, a more stable shoe is worth trying.

How we picked

Every shoe we track is scored on cushioning, stability, responsiveness, weight, drop, plate, width options and price. For this guide we ran that scoring for a typical runner with these needs and show the top three. No brand or retailer can pay to appear. How we rank.

Sources

1. Malisoux et al. (2016). Injury risk in runners using standard or motion control shoes: a randomised controlled trial with participant and assessor blinding. British Journal of Sports Medicine 50(8)
2. Nigg et al. (2015). Running shoes and running injuries: mythbusting and a proposal for two new paradigms. British Journal of Sports Medicine 49(20)