Best Basketball Shoes for Flat Feet in 2021

If you have flat feet, you will notice some hindrance in athletic performance. You may not be able to cut as crispy as you would like, your push-off might cause for agility reduction, and your overall performance might not be up to par. These are minor concerns when it comes to the total scope of flat feet. Many people fail to realize that proper footwear plays an essential role in assisting these issues and prevents against the development of more severe problems. These problems include MCL damage, knee inflation, and even hip problems. All of these issues stem from the root: the flat feet.

Below is an in-depth review of footwear options and features you should keep an eye out for in your selection. Paying attention to these details can help to increase performance and prevent against further damage to the body.

Adidas Performance Men's Cloudfoam Ilation Mid Basketball Shoe

​Our first product comes from one of the largest sneaker manufacturers in the basketball space: Adidas. The Cloudfoam Ilation Mid-Rise basketball shoe applies the correct form of design for athletic performance. Starting on the bottom of the shoe, we notice a strong undercarriage of rubberized materials. This platform measures over 1'' in thickness, adding to the support category in a major way. It is termed a mid-rise but covers most of the ankle for the average foot size. It is constructed with fabric and leather materials, catering to the long-term user.

The Clodufoam technology is utilized throughout the shoe. The inner portion is lined with this cushioning material, extending from the footbed to the back, the upper portion of the shoe. This technology acts as a memory foam that form fits to your foot. We also note a small mid-rise in the undercarriage, which has been termed an important feature for those with flat feet. Limited flexibility in the toe box also marks for a positive sign for flat feet users.

Nike Jordan Basketball Shoe

It wouldn't be a complete basketball shoe article without the inclusion of at least one Nike product. The Nike Jordan model embodies the perfect fit and mold for flat footed individuals. It features a high-top mold that completely houses the ankle. Added support is featured on the sides of the ankles with two high rises of suede materials. These two pillars keep that ankle stable and prevent from sliding. The bottom portion of the shoe is constructed with a rubber sole that is thick.

The very bottom of the shoe is enhanced with gripping mechanisms that allow for proper footing on the court. The very back of the shoe introduces a shock absorber that reduces the pressure on the entire foot on take-off or landing. The insert is cushioned and responds to your foot, creating the proper fit and mold each time you lace them up.

Under Armour Men's UA Curry 2.5 Basketball Shoe

Everyone loves a shoe company that signs an athlete to boost their brand. Curry is one of basketball's brightest and his genius can be featured in the Under Armour Curry 2.5 basketball shoe. This shoe is comprised of synthetic materials that stretch to wrap around the ankle. This creates a firm grip and placement holder for this portion of the foot. The rubber sole and undercarriage is thick and layered with rubberized materials. These platforms are reinforced in the back and thinner in the front.

The shoe also hosts a pronounced mid-rise, evening the necessary weight distribution for flat-footed users. The back rise is fully encompassing and surrounding, meaning your ankle won't slide around or get twisted from shifty movement. The synthetic material is thin and features a sufficient amount of cushioned padding in the back-ankle area.

Informational Video and Product Features to Note

As you deal with flat feet, keep in mind that this can be merely a phase we all could go through. Correction is possible and furthering rehabilitation can occur without the expensive visits to the doctor. Below is a brief video describing the issues that can develop from having flat feet:

While the focus is on flat feet and proper basketball footwear, it is important to note the extensive nature of untreated tendencies. Continuing to ignore the problem can lead to major knee problems and hip issues that may require extensive care or even surgeries. Nipping this problem at the source is the easiest way to keep these issues away.

The Importance of the Mid-Rise/Arch

One of the most important features in selecting a basketball shoe for your flat feet is the benefit of the mid-rise. The mid-rise is located in the middle of the shoe on the bottom portion. It is either pronounced by a small hike or cut in the material or it takes the form of an upward arch. The main purpose of the mid-rise is to correct the flat feet. Obtaining a shoe that is flat throughout the bottom portion does nothing to improve upon your condition. Pronation, as it is more commonly referred to, develops over time when using improper footwear for a multitude of activities. The activity plays a major role in the development of this condition, making it the most important factor in our discussion.

The mid-rise plays an important role in the activity of playing basketball. Basketball players utilize a lot of different movements when on the court. One thing coaches pound into your heads when you are playing is to stay on your toes when on defense. This is done without error as it is the best way for you to execute quick movements and directional changes. Having a shoe with a flat bottom greatly reduces your speed in executing these movements. The mid-rise keeps your toes an ankle in-check, allowing for heightened focus in these areas of in-game play.

Proper Ankle Coverage and Support

A second area that garners a lot of attention during a basketball contest is the ankle. The same movements described previously rely on this area for proper or heightened production and performance. One of the most common injuries faced by basketball players is an ankle twist. Quick movements and body shifts can place a lot of pressure on this area of the foot. Having flat feet also places more attention on this area, calling for the proper support measures. The desired shoe type is something that rises to cover the entire ankle. A high-top shoe fits this description the best. You want to keep the entire ankle housed to limit the movement of this area. Lateral movements are necessary, but when your foot operates as a whole, you stand a better chance with your defending and drives to the basket. This also calls for extensive padding in this area to limit unwanted movements.

The second measure is the proper build-up in the undercarriage. The desired method is a thick platform that builds up the back of the foot. This helps you keep your balance when facing adverse positioning and allows for proper support to outlast the duration of the game. Building this area up also takes the focus off of the ankle, allowing it to support you in the necessary capacities.

Toe Flex

The last area of concern is within the toe box. Generally, it is good practice to have a spacious toe box. During the game, players spend a majority of their time on their toes. It is the best practice for performing proper movements and shifts. This makes the toe box an essential target area for shoe types. A second feature you'll be looking for in the toe box is the proper amount of flex. You want it to be somewhat flexible, but not enough for a full bend.

The flexibility part is important since you will be putting your feet through multiple courses of action during the game. Too much flex can lead to instability in these areas or can wear on your toes. A good measurement tool is finding a shoe that bends about half the way back and keeps form during that bend. This showcases a stable toe box and the ample amount of support needed for heavy periods on one's toes.

Conclusion

After reviewing some of the options existing in the basketball space for flat-footed individuals, we have chosen the Adidas Performance basketball shoe as the top option for consumers. This Adidas Performance model checks every item off the to-do list for flat foot shoes. It contains a spaced mid-rise allowing for even weight distribution in the high-target and high-traffic foot areas. 

The toe box is both forgiving and spacious, allowing for heightened focus on the high-traffic areas of gameplay. It embodies everything we need in a basketball shoe for flat feet. Remember to be precise when reviewing your options. Knowing your playing style or the style you look to embody is also important to the success of the shoe.