How To Choose The Right Cross Training Shoes For Flat Feet

CrossFit training incorporates the set of movements, performed at high intensity. All CrossFit workouts are based on functional movements, and these movements reflect the best aspects of gymnastics, weightlifting, running, rowing and more.

Obviously, the varied nature of the CrossFit training means that every part of the body will work out and develop. Thus, this type of training brings numerous benefits to women. You’ll become leaner, improve your health, enhance your metabolism and build the muscle mass when it is necessary.

Of course, if you want CrossFit training to be safe and efficient, you should choose the appropriate attire. One of the major staples in your sports wardrobe is footwear….this means that having sturdy crossfit shoes is a must. It not only enhances your performance but also protects from the impact, put on the feet during the training and reduces the risk of injuries.

Oftentimes, women with flat feet, face the problem of the choice of appropriate CrossFit shoes, which give them adequate cushioning and support. However, if you are aware of all key factors to consider and know your foot type, you can easily find the best pair for you.

So, if you have decided to hit the gym and incorporate CrossFit training into your routine, go for the right Cross training shoes. Here is information about the best CrossFit shoes for flat feet and the buyer’s guide.

Types Of Pronation

Pronation is the natural foot movement that happens during foot landing. If the foot rolls inward about 15%, then the pronation is neutral. If the foot rolls inward less than 15%, then it is called supination. Overpronation means that the foot rolls inward more than 15% and that is why there are problems with stabilization.

Women with flat feet require stability, support, and cushioning because they are prone to overpronation.

Causes Of Overpronation

• Flat feet;
• Low arches or too flexible arches;
• Knee/leg/hip injuries;
• Obesity;
• Tendonitis (inflammation or irritation of a tendon);
• Arthritis;
• Aging.

Treatment Of Overpronation

After you’ve seen a podiatrist and know that you overpronate, you can do something about this condition in order to correct it.

• Choose shoes with extra medial support as it prevents the foot from rolling. Also, make sure the shoe offers adequate arch support and deep heel cups.
• Use orthotic inserts. They provide additional cushioning and support. Besides, in case of injuries, you may require specially casted orthotics from a relevant sports injury therapist or podiatrist.
• Stretch the legs and feet to reduce muscle tightness, which is caused by overpronation.
• Do exercises to improve the foot shock absorption ability, stability, and support (e.g. toe curls, heel raises).

Things To Consider When Choosing Cross Training Shoes For Flat Feet

Women with flat feet require stable, supportive, and comfortable shoes. So, before purchasing the pair of shoes, take into consideration the following features.

• Stability

Women with flat feet suffer from destabilization because their foot rolls inward after landing. Therefore, the shoe should have stabilizers on the side of the forefoot, arch support, which will prevent pronation and a padded collar for additional support.

• Support

CrossFit training encompasses the exercises of different intensity, so the shoe should provide good support. Otherwise, there may be the risk of injury. Supportive shoes should keep your foot in its place and prevent sliding. Therefore, invest in the sneakers with a great lace-up system, overlays, a padded tongue and a cushioned insole. Besides, arch support is crucial. So, look for the best workout shoes for arch support.

• Slip-Resistance

Women with flat feet are prone to instability so the shoe should prevent slipping and provide support and stability. Thus, look for the shoes with the grippy outsoles, which provide great traction on different surfaces. The outsole may be made of rubber (it has natural slip-resistance attributes), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polyurethane (PU).

• Cushioning

Additional shock absorption in the forefoot and heel area improves shock absorption and enhances comfort.

• Durability

CrossFit training puts much stress on the feet and the shoes should be able to withstand everything. Therefore, the upper should be made of breathable yet durable materials (Flyknit, Kevlar, which is even stronger than steel), the outsole should be made of a high abrasion rubber or a blown rubber, which is lightweight but durable.

• Comfort

Comfort makes your training more enjoyable. A cushioned insole, padding on the tongue and the collar, a responsive and cushy midsole contribute to the overall comfort.

• Size

If the shoe runs true to size, then your training will give you only a pleasant experience. If the shoe runs small, you will experience discomfort and it may cause injuries as well as too big shoes. If you have flat feet then go for shoes with an increased width because the toes should have enough space to splay naturally.

Top Three Best Workout Shoes For Women With Flat Feet

Top training shoes for men and shoes for women provide superior support, cushioning, stability and come in a wide range of colors and styles. Here are the best Cross training shoes for women with flat feet.

• Inov-8 Bare-XF 210

Featuring a zero heel-to-toe drop, the shoe has been designed for women with flat feet. The shoe fits the foot biomechanics. The upper is mesh so that the foot receives adequate ventilation. This is a crucial criterion in CrossFit shoes as during the CrossFit session, you’ll sweat much.

The support is top notch in this shoe. It is provided by the TPU lacing and a 360-degree rope-tec delivers traction and durability on rope climbs.

Besides, the flexibility is ensured by the Meta-Flex technology. It means that there are grooves in the forefoot of the outsole, they encourage the natural foot movement. Therefore, you feel comfortable.

The rubber outsole is grippy so that you get great traction on any surface. Image courtesy of Pinterest.

Pros:

• Fits great;
• A zero heel-to-toe drop;
• Gives a barefoot feeling, which is crucial for flat feet;
• Breathable and supportive;
• Grippy and flexible.

Cons:

• The insole may be too loose.

 

• Puma Tazon 6

This shoe is one of the best workout shoes for flat feet because it provides the necessary arch support and shock absorption. Featuring a sleek design, they have a synthetic leather upper with perforations for a good airflow. In the meantime, this material makes the shoe durable. The traditional lace-up provides a lockdown fit so that the foot doesn’t overpronate.

Besides, the shoe has EVA cushioning in the heel area so that the foot receives perfect cushioning. As for the outsole, it has flex grooves in the forefoot area, which enhances flexibility and improves comfort. Image courtesy of Pinterest.

Pros:

• Great arch support;
• EVA cushioning;
• A breathable upper;
• A sock-like fit;
• Affordable price.

Cons:

• Runs narrow;
• It isn’t appropriate for outdoor trail running.

 

• Reebok Crossfit Nano 7

In these low-profile shoes, you’ll feel as comfortable as ever. The breathable upper fabric creates a nice environment during any type of the CrossFit sessions. As for the midsole, it gives enough cushioning the flat feet need as it is made of CMEVA foam. This compression molded EVA is made through compression molding. This process means that a block of EVA foam is compressed inside a metal mold. Besides, the forefoot flex grooves make the shoe super flexible and comfortable.

On top of that, the shoe is highly durable due to the High Abrasion rubber outsole and the DuraGrip print on the toe cap. Image courtesy of Pinterest.

Pros:

• CMEVA midsole is cushy and responsive;
• The upper is stretchy and breathable;
• The High Abrasion upper is durable and grippy.

Cons:

• Runs narrow;
• May be too stiff.

Conclusion

Thus, having flat feet isn’t a reason for despair. If you choose well-balanced and stable shoes, which meet all your needs, then CrossFit training will bring you physical and emotional benefits.