Flat feet or overpronation? How to choose a running shoe that actually helps

Athletics Weekly explains that a low arch, often visible through a wet footprint or mirror check, is a static anatomical trait that does not automatically indicate a running problem or dictate the need for specific footwear. The publication notes that while the NHS describes flat feet as common and typically painless, the dynamic movement of the foot during a run, known as pronation, is a separate and more complex factor that cannot be reliably diagnosed by looking at arch shape alone.

To determine whether a runner requires a stability shoe with added guidance features like a broader base or firmer foam, the report advises against relying solely on home observations or the wear patterns of old shoes. Instead, it suggests bringing worn footwear to a specialist fitting, such as those offered by independent retailer Sole Mate, where the actual gait and feel of new options can be properly assessed.

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