Have you been spending most of your days in socks? That’s right, socks are the new shoes, and did you know that the socks you wear can have a great impact on how your feet feel, too, especially if you have flat feet? The wrong socks can exacerbate foot pain and arch pain, and they can cause new symptoms of foot problems to arise. This is why today, we’ll be telling you all about socks for flat feet.
Flat feet, also referred to as fallen arches, need arch support, which helps in pain relief. Flat foot pain can be temporarily addressed by stretching, strengthening, and providing support to your arches. But for long-term comfort, you’ll need to add firm arch support insoles to your footwear. In addition, experts also recommend using flat feet socks.
You can use socks for flat feet, even barefoot, to help support and promote arch traction. Since they provide easy comfort and support for flat-footed individuals, these socks encourage swelling relief by raising, stretching, and stabilizing the arch. Arch support socks can help alleviate the daily gradual pain associated with conditions such as plantar fasciitis.
As you can tell, flat feet socks provide that extra shock absorption to the arches of the feet. Arch support socks can also provide a stabilizing surface for your feet to land to lessen the burden of impact on your feet as you stand and walk. If you think you can benefit from wearing flat feet socks, you are in the right place as we’ll be sharing below some of the best socks for flat feet available now.
Socks For Flat Feet Reviewed In This Guide
- Best Overall Socks For Flat Feet: Saucony Women’s Performance Heel Tab Athletic Socks
- Best Seller on Amazon Socks For Flat Feet: PAPLUS Compression Sock for Men and Women
- Best Affordable Socks For Flat Feet: CWVLC Cushioned Compression Athletic Ankle Socks
- Best Copper Compression Socks For Flat Feet: Arch Ankle Support Socks
- Best for Running Socks For Flat Feet: FUNDENCY Women’s Athletic Crew Socks
How To Choose The Perfect Socks For Flat Feet?
When choosing the best sock for flat feet, you need to consider essential features and have in mind important criteria as you should be able to identify which models will match your needs. The words you want to focus on most are comfort, support, and the right fit.
Some general fabric rules apply when searching for the perfect pair of socks for flat feet to give you the most comfortable throughout the day.
In general terms, you want a flexible fabric that can mold to the arches in your feet to help shape the contours of your feet to be properly aligned for the best shock absorption. Flexible fabrics can also provide a feel similar to that of a compression sock.
The right cushion for the arch support should also be made of soft, breathable, moisture-wicking material. However, more than just the fabric composition and the presence of cushioning for arch support is vital when choosing foot support socks.
The size also plays a big role in how the arch support actually assists your feet. You want to be sure that the cushioning is placed in strategic areas to cover all your arches and that they align with the arches in your feet to provide the maximum support.
For instance, let’s say you have an XL foot but are wearing a medium size sock; the cushioning will be stretched very thin and unable to support your arches very well. Thus, you want to ensure your arch support socks are built for your specific foot size.
Types Of Socks For Flat Feet
Arch Support Socks For Flat Feet
A flat foot is a deformity that occurs when the arches of the foot either partially or completely collapse or never fully develop from childhood. The result is that the entire sole of the foot makes contact with the ground, causing increased stress and pain in the foot.
Arch support socks can help mold the feet by providing an arch-like shape to the feet, and strategically-inserted compression can help lift some of the soles off the ground. This can make a big difference to those dealing with the aches and discomfort that come with flat feet.
Therefore, arch support socks can improve blood circulation, reduce swelling, and provide pain relief associated with this condition.
Compression Socks For Flat Feet
Compression socks are a good choice for flat feet. The main use of compression socks is for those with poor blood circulation and who need extra support. Normally, doctors and trainers recommend compression sleeves for those with pain in the arch.
You can use compression sleeves to experience the proper arch support. Also, compression socks can be beneficial for those with problematic varicose veins. Some compression socks that feature gel pads enhance arch support capability.
The pads distribute and minimize pressure on the feet, thereby reducing the pressure on your tendons. Additionally, they absorb the shock you may experience when moving and ease the discomfort from the flat feet.
Flat feet need over-the-counter arch supports. Since compression socks or stockings gently squeeze legs, typical socks aim to promote better blood circulation.
That is why people use these socks for various reasons and purposes, including in sports and as medical recommendations.
Socks For Flat Feet List
1. Saucony Heel Tab Athletic Socks For Flat Feet
Pros
- Polyester, Spandex
- Pull On closure
- Machine Wash
- Arch Stability Control & Support
- Comfort Toe
Cons
- Slightly Large
Saucony women’s performance Heel tab athletic socks perfectly combine comfort and support. Great for the toughest training sessions.
The socks for flat feet feature RunDry Moisture Management, providing superior moisture transport with our ultra-wicking fibers. So, your feet stay fresh in the gym or on the road.
The Mesh ventilation construction creates maximum airflow to keep your feet cool and dry in any running conditions. Light cushioning provides impact protection without taking up too much space inside your shoes.
What Our Testers Say
These are seriously my favorite socks of all time. I first bought a pack of them multiple years ago at a big box store and haven’t been able to find them in stores since then. (Maybe I’m just bad at looking but oh well). I finally found them here on Amazon and was so excited. I have multiple different brands, types, and styles of socks, and I always find myself reaching for these ones above all my other pairs.
They never fall down into my shoe, even when I’m running at the gym or working 9-hour days. I’ve even worn them in winter boots for extended periods of time, and they still stay up! Plus, even the ones I bought years ago still have no holes and have held up very well. Super happy 🙂 I never thought I’d be so passionate about socks, yet here I am.
Engineered with just the right amount of compression, keep your arch stable and secure. The arch support system also prevents bunching and helps keep your sock from slipping.
Tips
I’m a size 7 1/2 and got the set that fits sizes 5-10, but they are a little on the long side. There’s a little excess length to manage at the bottom of the sock, but once they’re on, you don’t really notice it too much.
2. PAPLUS Compression arch support socks
Pros
- Machine Wash
- Breathable Material
- Daily Wear
- Reduced Injury
Cons
- Not For Big Ankles
Compression improves blood flow, moves faster, reacts quicker, and uses less energy. Targeted compression zones provide varying levels of support from moderate to extra firm.
These ankle compression socks are designed to promote blood circulation and oxygen flow, preventing cramping, fatigue, and swelling, and help in muscle recovery and plantar fasciitis; the compression low-cut socks are engineered with the latest arch to below ankle compression technology, offering targeted foot support.
The no-show compression socks with a 3d circular progressive pressure design provide you with permanent all-around protection and ensure your feet are at the right angle to reduce sports injuries while providing ankle support.
What Our Testers Say
Suffering from flat feet makes standing up for long periods of time very uncomfortable and sometimes painful. These socks help relieve the pain of walking or running by applying pressure around the bottom arc area of my feet. I am very pleased with the result and comfort of these socks! Highly recommended.
Designed for everyday use and boost your performance for any sports activity, yoga, gym, cycling, running, walking, standing, travel, or just sitting on the couch.
Tips
Use the size chart to choose the perfect fit.
3. CWVLC Cushioned Compression Socks For Flat Feet
Pros
- Lasting Elasticity
- Machine Wash
- Schock Absorption
- Moisture Control
- Low Cut
Cons
- Little Compression
What We Like:
What We Don’t Like:
The moisture-wicking material is AB yarn. A stands for high-tech quick-drying yarn, it has moisture-wicking performance, durable, but the foot feels hard; B stands for high-quality natural fiber with softness, skin-friendly, anti-odor, fast sweat absorption characteristics, but dry slowly, not very durable.
The sock’s material is exceptionally elastic, making it look small, but it has a great stretch. Moisture-wicking fabric and mesh ventilation construction keep your feet cool and dry in any running conditions.
What Our Testers Say
These socks are high quality and very well made. I am a size 12.5, and this XL fits great; a size 13 would have no issues either. They are also labeled L and R and padded very well on the bottom, and don’t let moisture build up on the top of the foot. Highly recommend!!!!!!
The flat feet socks help promote blood circulation and oxygen flow, prevent cramps, fatigue, and swelling, and help muscle recovery and plantar fasciitis.
Power bands of Lycra and nylon are designed to contour to the individual shape of your foot. This snug, supportive fit eliminates movement to prevent blisters. Their light cushioning provides impact protection without taking up too much space inside your shoes.
Tips
Machine wash cold, low tumble dry. Do not iron, do not bleach, and do not dry clean.
4. Arch Support Socks For Flat Feet
Pros
- Removable footbed liners
- Spacious back heel.
- Arch support, comfortable.
- Breathable, washable.
- Anti-slip.
Cons
- Pricey
Copper is a great conductor of electricity; we extended its natural property to rejuvenate blood circulation in your legs through copper fibers capable of reviving blood circulation and providing an 8-15 mmHg compression.
What Our Testers Say
When the package arrived, I was excited to open it to see if these socks would help. I was so very happy to feel the relief my feet felt after just a few minutes of wearing them. They gave support where needed. I’m glad to say I will be purchasing more. I gave two packages to my niece, and she likes them too. You will not be sorry to purchase these socks. Especially if you have arthritis and diabetes, as I do. The neuropathy foot pain is like lightning; these socks have tamed that problem. Purchase these, and you will be glad you did.
They keep your feet and legs fresh throughout the day by providing a mild squeezing action to support enhanced blood flow. It offers the perfect settlement scheme for those who sit for long periods during travel or work.
Constructed with soft sole cushioning for adding comfort, providing performance and extra breathability for an active athlete. These no-show loafer socks will keep your feet fresh, odor-free, and cool all day long.
They are designed to mold to your feet and provide the most comfort. These socks for flat feet fit just right on your feet, are not too tight, and provide unmatched comfort.
Tips
They keep your feet warm if they have problems with ‘cold feet.’
5. FUNDENCY Women’s Athletic Crew Socks For Flat Feet
Pros
- Quality Material
- Reinforced Heels
- Arch Support
- Cushion Sole
Cons
- Pricey
- Very Thick, Not Good For Summer
The women’s athletic crew socks are made of 90% polyester and 10% spandex. The premium spandex yarn and cushioned polyester absorb sweat to keep feet comfortable and provide much-needed breathability during your hiking, running, or other outdoor sports.
The right amount of arch compression will keep your arch secure and stable for a perfect fit. The elastic cuff tightly locks the heel to prevent sport crew socks from sliding down from your daily work.
The cushioned sole covers the entire bottom of the socks, getting the ultimate combination of softness and strength in the running crew socks. Max cushioning is placed in areas of high impact to reduce sock and foot pain during sports or daily activity.
What Our Testers Say
Wow! These socks are fantastic. The fit is perfect. Although they’re not compression socks, there are no loose or bulky areas; they fit perfectly against every aspect of my foot and lower leg. When I first pulled them out of the package, I felt them and thought, these don’t feel very thick. But then, when I wore them, they were more comfortable, supportive, and cushiony than a bulky thick sock. They are more cushiony and supportive than any sock I’ve ever worn, and they fit around every curve of your foot. After wearing these for a full 12-hour shift, my feet feel great.
Be suitable for sports shoes, casual shoes, work shoes, leather shoes, boots, and more. Be perfect for indoors, especially for outdoor activities like running, hiking, and walking.
Tips
Machine wash cold (suggest using wash bag). Hang to dry. Don’t iron. Don’t bleach.
flat feet socks Buying Guide
What Are Socks For Flat Feet?
The best socks for flat feet are those that offer arch support, and arch support in socks can be translated to cushioning. The force of our movements is absorbed by whatever we step on. For example, if you walk barefoot on a hard floor, your foot absorbs the entirety of the impact.
Any type of cushioning, be they in your socks, shoes, or a combination thereof, will provide some level of arch support. However, cheap and flimsy socks provide such little support that most people don’t even notice it.
Socks marketed as socks for flat feet need to offer arch support to provide exponentially more cushioning, compression, and support in strategically-placed areas to ease the pain that comes as arches get worn down.
How Do arch support socks Work?
Socks for flat feet work by exerting pressure. This pressure from the compression socks keeps the muscles at the arch well circulated with blood. When there is enough support to the arch, and the blood is circulating properly, the arches will cause less pain.
Due to their great blood circulation, people with flat feet wear them when sitting for a long period. Yet, the compression of the tissues beneath the skin reduces excess leakage of liquid in the capillaries.
It prevents the flat feet from swelling, which otherwise causes more pain.
Features To Look For In Socks For Flat Feet
Materials
Premium, soft, breathable, and moisture-wicking fabrics are the best for socks for flat feet. The technology or material used to make the socks will also help to reduce the pain caused by flat feet while enhancing the overall comfort.
Some of the technologies used for flat feet socks include the Wick Dry and the Far Infrared Rays technology.
Flexibility
Flexible fabrics that mold and contour your arches are essential. Your best socks for flat feet should be flexible enough to allow mobility and ease foot pain and discomfort by providing stability and support to the arch.
Cushioning
Extra cushioning that covers all the arches is key. The padding is a major factor to keep in mind when searching for the right socks for flat feet. The major area of concern should be the arch section.
This is the main area where the pain originates from. Ideally, the heels, balls, and toes should have dense padding. Conversely, the arch should have a light padding to promote shock absorption.
Sizing
Correct sizing for proper support alignment. Unless you choose socks that fit well on your feet, you will end up experiencing pain and not exactly enjoy the delivery of those socks. Also, well-fitted socks will enhance the comfort as you put them on.
Compression
Compression socks feature a pressurizing design that aims to improve blood circulation in your feet. Additionally, depending on the manufacturing company, they have a gel pad that supports the arch.
As a result, you’ll experience more comfort than when wearing regular socks.
The Orthodontics/Shoe inserts Design
You should also consider these factors as you select your socks. Choosing socks with custom-designed Orthodontics will help enhance your flat feet’ performance. Generally, they help to make your feet work like normal, non-flat feet.
Common Questions About flat feet socks
What does it mean to have flat feet?
Flat feet or pes planus, pes valgus, or overpronation are exactly what the name implies; the feet are flatter on the bottom and allow the entire sole of the foot to touch the floor when standing.
Flat feet are normal in babies and toddlers because the arches in their feet haven’t yet developed. Most individuals develop the foot arch throughout childhood; however, some will never develop arches in their feet.
What are the causes of flat feet?
The causes of flat feet are varied. Some inherit the condition from their parents as an isolated trait, particularly for children with hypermobility or “double jointed.”
Others develop flat feet as part of another genetic condition. Still, others develop the condition over time.
- Age. The daily walking and pressure put on the feet can also make one develop a flat foot surface. Here, the arches will gradually drop as the tendons weaken. In the long run, the arch’s natural support will be lost. That is why most of the elderly have flat feet.
- Foot injuries. You can also have flat feet if you experience torn or stretched tendons, or dislocated or broken bones.
- Health conditions. Specific health conditions like diabetes, obesity, or pregnancy can also make your feet flat.
- Not wearing shoes/the right shoes. If you are used to wearing open shoes that are flat, the arch will naturally drop and cause your feet to be flat.
Do flat feet need arch support?
If your flatfeet are painful, your doctor might suggest Arch supports (orthotic devices). Over-the-counter arch supports may help relieve the pain caused by flatfeet. Or your doctor might suggest custom-designed arch supports, which are molded to the contours of your feet.
What do podiatrists recommend for flat feet?
Orthotic devices can help correct gait or structural abnormalities and prevent additional problems from developing. These devices can help with conditions that may affect your spine and limbs. If you have flat feet, orthotic devices should be custom-made to give you adequate support.
Can Socks Have Arch Support?
Foot pain associated with flat feet or fallen arches can be lessened by wearing socks in the foot’s arch because they provide extra shock absorption.
Furthermore, arch support socks assist in stabilizing your feet after landing to help alleviate your discomfort with impacts from a foot issue that you are likely to face standing and walking all day.
Is walking barefoot good for flat feet?
Running barefoot may help strengthen muscles in your arch and ankles for those with flat feet. Those who do a lot of physical activity or run often may experience their flat feet lacking pronation when the arch compresses to help with shock absorption as force exerts on the feet.
Enjoy Your New Socks For Flat Feet
Having flat feet doesn’t mean you have to miss out on enjoying the sport you love most or live in discomfort your whole life. Do yourself a favor and be your best version with the help of socks for flat feet, which can positively impact your life.
You’ll be good to go after you go through this guide and experiment with different types of arch support socks.
Feel free to send out your messages with questions, suggestions, or comments you may have. We are always here for you.
