Are minimalist shoes okay if I have flat feet?

Arch height is predominantly genetic and there’s no evidence that flat feet are better/worse than high arched feet or “normal” feet.

What we think is more important is arch STRENGTH. And strength in your feet, like every other part of your body, comes from USING your feet naturally — letting them bend, flex, move, and FEEL your world.

It’s possible that by strengthening your foot muscles, you could develop or improve your arch.

Research from Dr. Sarah Ridge shows that merely walking in a truly minimalist shoe improves foot muscle strength as much as doing a concentrated exercise program for your feet (and it’s easier to work that into your daily life).