If you are struggling to find soccer cleats that can accommodate your foot shape, wearing the best soccer cleats for flat feet might be a good option.
Having the right cleats can make a huge difference to a player's game, with certain ranges specifically designed for those that require a little additional comfort. FFT has been dedicating itself to categorizing designs to make cleat shopping easier for you. If you're simply looking for the best soccer cleats out right now, or the best soccer cleats for defenders, best soccer cleats for midfielders, best soccer cleats for strikers or even the best soccer cleats for wingers, be sure to check out our other reviews.
But right here you'll find the best soccer cleats for flat feet...
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Nike's gripknit upper is among my favorite materials on the market right now, with the texturing providing a premium and unrivalled touch on the ball. The flexible soleplate and wide fitting makes these a great option for players with flat feet.
Featuring premium materials throughout the cleat, a cushioned soleplate and plenty of support, the Morelia II is an elite option when it comes to comfortability for all foot shapes. Considering they have been constructed with such quality, they're considerably more expensive.
Offering a sock-like playing experience, as well as plenty of space and volume, the Puma Future 8 Ultimate are both comfortable and accomodating. The repositioning of the pwrtape technology has certainly helped improve comfort.
Bargains are always well-received, so to see a quality option cost less than $100 is quite remarkable. The leather is soft and works brilliantly on the cleat, which itself is comfortable and durable throughout practice and games.
A modernised version of the Adidas Copa Mundial, the Icon 2 takes everything great from that cleat and has brought them into the modern day. The leather is soft, the fit is ideal for players with flat feet, and they don't break the bank to buy, either.
Now made from a synthetic upper, the upgraded New Balance 442 V2 Elites still offer great protection through the padding, while making them slightly lighter and more comfortable underfoot. They come in a wide-feet version which are more suited to flat-footed players, too.
Best overall
One of the best Nike soccer cleats, the Nike Phantom GX 2 Elite features a flexible soleplate that can cushion players with flatter feet a lot better, with the low-profile further enhanced through the low-recess heel containing plenty of padding - not only does this ensure comfortability for people with flat feet, but it's great on your achilles as well.
I love how much volume the cleat has in the forefoot. This aspect means my midfoot isn't hugged too tightly, limiting the pressure on my flat arches as a result. While I find this narrows at the toebox, the upper can still stretch over time and certainly accomodates those with wide feet.
Not only does the gripknit upper with high tenacity yarns make the upper soft and pliable, but it also has a noticeable impact on your touch on the ball. The 3D texturing truly provides a grip level that is unmatched on the market, and my favorite when it comes to the best soccer cleats for firm ground.
Underfoot, I found the Cyclone 360-degree soleplate placed less strain on my flat feet thanks to the enhanced rotational movement. When coupled with the flexible soleplate, I had absolutely no problems whatsoever during practice and games.
Best quality
The Mizuno Morelia II Made in Japan is a masterclass in craftsmanship, offering a blend of tradition, premium materials, and top-tier performance. Designed for players who value a classic soccer cleat, they feature a premium kangaroo leather upper that delivers an unparalleled touch on the ball and great comfort underfoot.
Engineered for optimal traction through conical studs, which promote smooth pivots and secure footing at all times, the solplate provides plenty of stability despite having a low-profile design. There's good levels of flex to ensure flat feet aren't hindered with a rigid soleplate, while there's plenty of cushioning, too.
Micro-taffeta is used to help prevent the premium leather from overstretching on the upper, ensuring a glove-like fit at all times, while the fact each cleat has been meticulously stitched in Japan highlights the craftsmanship involved. What I love is that it's still able to compete with the best lightweight soccer cleats, with Mizuno refusing to sacrifice agility or stability with the Morelia II.
While it may not boast modern tech innovations, its focus on quality and performance makes it a top choice for traditionalists seeking elegance and reliability on the pitch.
Best for wide feet
Built with multiple layers on the upper, which Puma names Fusionfit 3, the Puma Future 8 Ultimate adapts to the player's footshape in a way that is similar to leather but with slightly more structure, making them a great option for flat feet - and, in my opinion, one of the best soccer cleats for wide feet. Underneath the upper you find 3D Fuzionpods, which also help provide a custom fit as well as a more dampened and cushioned feel on the ball.
Certainly an upgrade from the previous Puma Future 7 Ultimate, the latest model continues with Pwrtape, a feature that works in the same way as kinesiology tape, to provide a better lockdown. I personally found this a lot better on the new model, with pressure slightly reduced and therefore easing the impact on my flat feet.
Because of the thicker upper, the touch on the ball feels more padded and dampened, with the voluminous shape ensuring there's enough space for all players to get on well with the cleats. The soleplate is comfortable, too.
Best value for money
A standout option for players seeking comfort at performance from the best soccer cleats under $100, the Kipsta Viralto IV Premium Leather features a soft leather upper that perfectly moulds to the shape of your foot. Indeed, they're ideal for players with flat feet because of this, with the leather offering a premium feel typically found in higher-end models.
Kipsta includes a boot lifespan on their cleats using an XP value that equates to the number of uses, stating the Viralto IV can last 95 wears, which make it the most durable of the best leather soccer cleats available.
The soleplate provides good traction, ensuring stability and quick changes of direction, while there's still plenty of cushioning in the insole which adds extra comfort and reduces pressure on the feet. They are ideal for players who prioritize comfort, touch, and a classic leather feel without breaking the bank.
Best for traditionalists
The Adidas Copa Icon 2 is a sleek homage to the brand's timeless soccer heritage provided by the original Copa Munidal, blending classic aesthetics with modern functionality. As a result, they're also one of the best soccer cleats for comfort.
Crafted with premium leather, the upper provides a supple touch on the ball, ensuring precision and control. Comfort is prioritized with a snug, sock-like fit and a padded collar, making it ideal for long sessions on the pitch. The stud configuration offers excellent traction on firm ground, allowing for swift turns and stable footing during intense gameplay.
While the Copa Icon 2 excels in durability and style, it may not suit players seeking high-tech innovations. Nevertheless, its craftsmanship and nostalgic appeal make it a solid choice for those who prioritise touch and feel, while accommodating all foot shapes. Overall, the Copa Icon 2 is a reliable, stylish option for players at any level.
Combining comfort and performance, New Balance has moved away from the leather upper used on the 442 V2 Pro and introduced a soft microfibre synthetic upper to the Elite version of the cleat. The quilted debossing provides a leather-like feel and aesthetic without the extra weight.
Featuring a one-piece construction with hypoknit in the lace area to provide comfort and a more custom fit to your feet, the New Balance 442 V2 Elite are a great option for flat-footed players as a result. I would heed caution when it comes to sizing, because I find New Balance can fit on the smaller side - I’d recommend getting at least a half-size up from your usual.
What makes these cleats even better for flat feet is the wide-footed variation New Balance offers on their cleats. This extra space will things more comfortable for players with flat feet, because there's not as much pressure squeezing your sole.
How we test soccer cleats for flat feet
Here at FourFourTwo, our cleat testing procedure is all about getting cleats on our feet and personally trying them out as many times as possible. One of our experts is well-versed in trying to find the right cleats for flat feet, with their dropped arches having caused various problems over the years. Each pair has been tested over a number of weeks, in various playing conditions, in order to get a proper idea of what they're like on a soccer pitch.
This is the best way to find out if cleats are better suited for firmer or softer ground, what level of traction they offer and how else they're geared towards improving a player's game. We're passionate about soccer cleats and regularly attend launch events, testing days and Q&As to get as much information as possible from manufacturers and designers before we begin.
All of our reviews are honest (despite working with brands, nobody can "buy" a good review from us) and we always have real soccer players in mind when giving recommendations.
How to choose the best soccer cleats
Finding the right soccer cleat can prove a difficult task in the modern day, with each brand claiming they've created something with the best technology humanly possible. What we've tried our best to do, however, is cut through the marketing jargon right to the core of what each cleat is like.
Each individual will have preferences, though, so ultimately it is up to you what you choose. Whether that's based on fit, feel or even looks, there are multiple different factors to consider when making your next choice.
Leather or synthetic
When it comes to flat feet, leather options are generally safer. That's because they offer slightly more support across your entire foot than the lightweight, minimalist designs often seen on synthetic boots, ensuring your flat feet don't become an issue.
Plus, the leather is more likely to conform to the shape of your foot, helping to eliminate any issues you might have with your lack of arch. This means you are less likely to get injured.
Synthetic options can work well, however - it just depends on the shape of the cleat and what support is offered through the soleplate. Skechers, for example, is a brand synonymous with comfort in the everyday shoe market, and have managed to transfer that expertise into their soccer cleats.
Styling
There are a number of great options available on the market, but that doesn't necessarily mean every cleat is suitable for players with flat feet. It's best, therefore, to focus on the correct fit and feel first, before worrying about the aesthetic you're preferring.
Indeed, brands release multiple colourways of each cleat these days, meaning you're never short of options with whatever style of soccer cleat you choose.
Getting the right fit
We'd always recommend trying a pair on before buying if you have flat feet, otherwise you risking spending a lot of money on something that doesn't even work with your foot type. Finding out how they fit in person is much better than trying to guess online, especially when the market is littered with so many options that could see you make the completely wrong decision.
Sizing often varies between brands, too, with Adidas US 8 soccer cleats differing to what a US 8 from Nike fits like. Before parting with your hard-earned money, it's always wise to try every pair on in person.
