From past to present, shoes are a great support friend for runners. Whether you are thin, normal, or fat, there will always be shoes that are right for you. However, choosing shoes for heavy runners can be difficult at times. Heavy runners need to make sure they are wearing shoes that match their foot type and gait. It is important to choose running shoes specifically designed to provide enough support and stability to all heavy runners. If you are having a hard time choosing shoes, then this list of 20 best running shoe for heavy runners review will help you out.
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Best for trail running | Best for cross-training | Best for orthotics |
** Below, you will find our detailed reviews of the Best Running Shoes For Heavy Runners, but you can also click the links above to see current prices or read customer reviews on Amazon.
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Detailed Review: Best Running Shoe For Heavy Runners
Salomon XA Pro 3D V8 will become a great companion for overweight guys who are looking for a pair of trail running shoes with plenty of arch support.
One of the best features Salomon XA Pro 3D V8can brings about is that it comes in both a breathable mesh version for hot sunny days as well as a Gore-Tex version for cold and wet days.
Besides that, Salomon XA Pro 3D V8 is also made from Contagrip rubber- a special rubber that helps it stick to any surface without letting small stones or small pebbles get clogged into the shoe.
In addition, this shoe makes it possible to run on challenging trails with the combination of dual EVA cells that feature cushioning. It is also equipped with a multitude of other protective features such as an Advanced Chassis System or a support toe bumper to give the runner flexibility and safety.
All of that features makes the Salomon XA Pro 3D V8 a great choice for overweight runners looking for a shoe with outstanding performance and a comfortable fit.
The Reebok ZigWild TR 2-M is a perfect choice if you are looking for a good shoe to run on harsh terrain. There are many factors that make this shoe a great shoe for heavy runners.
The first important feature is that the midsole of this shoe is made from molded PU foam. This foam increases shock absorption and provides maximum protection for your feet when running through rough terrain.
In addition, the sole of this shoe is designed in a zigzag style, creating firmness and great traction on a variety of running terrains. Moreover, it's also designed with grooves that curl around the forefoot area, while the upper part of the shoe is also low-cut. All of these features help you move quickly on any challenging terrain without worrying about leg injuries.
If you're looking for an incredibly sturdy yet comfortable shoe that can ride rocky trails and muddy terrain, then this Under Armor Fat Tire GTX monster shoe is for you.
The reason to say that this is the shoe can help you overcome any difficult terrain is because it has a very unique structure. The upper part of the shoe is equipped with Gore-Tex technology, which makes this shoe truly waterproof and protects the foot from harmful effects from the environment. On the other hand, the upper part is also made of breathable material, preventing foot sweating due to hot weather.
In addition, the outsole of the shoe is made from Michelin rubber, which is commonly found on mountain bikes. It helps to strengthen adhesion to almost any surface, whether hard or soft.
Additionally, the midsole of this shoe is designed with Under Armor Charged foam. This foam is very elastic and helps to absorb impact and bounce. This foam will make the wearer very comfortable even when standing for a long time in a humid environment.
The Saucony Echelon 7 is a hard shoe suitable for people with wide feet, people with low arches or who have orthopedic.
The Saucony Echelon 7 is a wide sole shoe with a wide foot box. This helps the wearer to move their legs comfortably without having to worry about blisters.
Besides, it is also suitable shoes for runners who tend to rotate their ankles in the direction out when running. This is because it's uniquely designed with zigzag-patterned Tri-Flex grooves on the outsole providing effective traction support around your ankles. The wearers commented that after about a month of use, they could not believe their eyes because the shoes did not appear to appear any wear.
In addition, the Echelon 7 has a midsole called Saucony's Everun, created by combining TPU particles together into foam. This increases shock resistance for heavy runners.
New Balance M990v3 Jogging Shoe will definitely be the best running shoe for heavy runners.
In addition to having a decent space in the forefoot and heel, the shoe's midsole is also wonderfully designed with 2-way cushioning: ACTEVA LITE and ABZORB. ABZORB is designed right under the feet to provide excellent shock resistance, giving you a comfortable long journey. On the other hand, ACTEVA LITE is designed right on the outsole of the shoe to support the responsiveness of the runner.
In addition, the New Balance M990v3 Jogging Shoe is also covered with Ndurance rubber which is used to cover the side and heel areas of the shoe, limiting abrasion due to external impacts.
The Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 33 is one of Nike's best-selling shoes. It is designed with Zoom Air heel and forefoot, non-stitched toe overlay and Flywire cable providing grip support and reduced impact on the foot.
What's special is that the upper part of the shoe is made of a transparent mesh, providing the ventilation and support that heavy runners always need. The transparent mesh is covered with a durable waterproof (DWR) coating for mild protection in wet conditions.
In addition, the Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 33 also features alternating horizontal and vertical cuts on the rails to help reinforce grip.
The Mizuno Wave Rider 22 is a shoe that is appreciated by heavy runners because of a lot of factors.
Continuing the tradition of durable shoes, the Mizuno Wave Rider 22 uses special Wave technology to increase shock absorption. Besides, it is also designed with two-layer mesh to support the upper part of the shoe, suitable for everyday running.
Plus, these cushioning running shoes can also help you climb light trails. However, you need to avoid roads with small rocks and gravel as they can get stuck in the sole.
In addition, the Wave Rider 22 is a good shock absorbing shoe as the midsole is constructed in a CloudWave pattern. The shoes also have a large energy return thanks to the combination of U4ic and U4icX compounds, helping the wearer to run longer.
The New Balance M1260v6 has become the best running shoe for heavy runners on the market in the last few years.
What makes this so special? Well, first of all, this shoe is designed with a perforated cover on the outside of the shoe. This is especially important for heavy runners as it helps you never have to endure the sticky feeling of the sweat secreting from your legs when running long distances.
Besides that, it is also equipped with an excellent flexible base that gives you very good shock absorption and cushioning. Additionally, New Balance also provides you with a detachable ABZORB cushion base, for convenience and comfort for the wearer.
Apart from that, these shoes are also great for over pronation people - those who run will often roll their ankles inside. This is because it will adjust the shooting mode to suit your stride, making it comfortable to run.
Similar to other Nike running shoes for overweight people, the Nike Free Flyknit 0 has a semi-curved profile, allowing them to match the curvature of your foot.
Besides, although the midsole, outsole and sole of this product are made from durable Phylite foam, the shoes are light and snugly and securely fit your feet. If you take a closer look at the outsole, you'll notice Nike has strategically placed some rubber in all of the highly abrasive areas. The purpose of this is to increase the durability of the shoe and reduce impacts from the environment.
In addition, the shoe is made from the most famous breathable material used in running sneakers - the lightweight Flyknit is on the top, allowing the air to enter the shoe with ease, keeping the foot always dry and cool all day long.
Asics Gel Kayano 26 is designed with unique material called SpevaFoam 45 Lasting material. This makes the shoe able to withstand enduring force overtime and also creates a soft and comfortable feeling for the wearers.
Besides that, this shoe is designed with the combination of two great technologies: FlyteFoam Lyte technology and FlyteFoam Propel technology. FlyteFoam Lyte Technology is the lightest formula which is used to construct the shoe's midsole, providing a continuous cushioning thanks to organic nano fibers. Meanwhile, FlyteFoam Propel technology is an energy foam formulation that has the ability to give the shoe a high bounce.
Apart from that, this shoe is also a great option for you if your feet tend to roll in while you run. It adjusts the shooting mode to suit your stride. This is because Asics Gel Kayano 26 is equipped with a unique system which is called a DuoMax system in the midsole, which enhances support and stability, minimizes the risk of flat feet and bunions.
For heavy runners who are selecting the good shoe for trail running, trail racing or hiking, Altra Olympus 2.0 definitely is what you are waiting for.
Altra Olympus 2.0 is enhanced with the Vibram MegaGrip outsole. This specific technology helps enhance traction on steep terrain while maintaining a comfortable foot feel. Besides that, it has an impressive 36Mm stack height, a bottom layer is bonded to add springs, and a top layer in ethylene vinyl acetate to overcome treacherous terrain.
Apart from that, like every other Altra shoe, the toe box helps your feet move freely. Also, the upper part of the shoe is also made of breathable material, making it comfortable for heavy runners. You will never feel uncomfortable from sweat and stinking feet again, allowing you to wear them to anywhere you want.
The Asics Gel-Nimbus 21 is definitely a shoe that will please overweight guys who just started running.
First, Asics Gel-Nimbus 21 is equipped with a large toe box, allowing overweight runners to move their toes comfortably while running. The upper part of the toe box is covered with jacquard mesh, creating elasticity and high ventilation, helping to limit foot sweating in heavy runners.
Besides, Asics uses two types of foam for the midsole: FlyteFoam Lyte and FlyteFoam Propel. While the FlyteFoam Lyte serves as an excellent cushioning, the FlyteFoam Propel provides excellent energy return, giving you endurance even during long runs.
In addition, the outsole uses a unique ASICS rubber compound that is abrasion resistant and works well on both dry and wet surfaces.
If you want to invest in a pair of running shoes for beginners or just want to run for fun, the Saucony Cohesion 10 is a great idea.
The Saucony Cohesion 10 has 2 layers of rubber: iBR + rubber and XT-900 rubber. IBR + rubber is used in the front and middle area of the feet of the shoes. This enables the wearer to move flexibly without affecting traction. On the other hand, the highly abrasive areas of the outsole are made of the XT-900 rubber which increases resistance to the elements of abrasion from the outside environment.
In addition, the Saucony Cohesion 10 also offers shock absorption and improved traction thanks to the Tri-Flex system. In addition, Saucony also uses EVA injection molding technology, which helps to disperse your body weight evenly, thereby reducing pressure from ankles, knees, back and other joints....
The Brooks Beast 18 is a specially designed shoe for those with flat feet and over pronators. It does this because it's equipped with a diagonal scroll bar - the PDRB adjusts the foot to its neutral position, thus keeping your ankles from spinning in while running.
In addition, the upper part of the shoe is also covered with a mesh to help manage moisture and create comfort for the feet.
Furthermore, the Brooks Beast 18's midsole also features a shock-absorbing pad designed to cushion your feet. This keeps all segments working together to customize your personal stride, providing the right amount of cushioning you need.
Apart from that, it also has an outsole made of HPR Plus rubber that limits wear, helping to extend the life of the shoe. This shoe is also designed with Omega grooves to increase the durability of the shoe. These are the perfect running shoes for overweight runners.
The Adidas Performance CloudFoam is a trendy sneaker for heavy runners. You can take it regardless of whether it's rainy or sunny. So what makes it so great?
The first feature is the special material Adidas used for the Adidas Performance CloudFoam. This material can adjust temperature to keep feet dry, cool and ventilated all day long.
Besides, you will experience a comfortable bounce when wearing Adidas Performance CloudFoam because it is equipped with highly responsive midsoles. Its midsole is also made of EVA compound, matching the contour and shape of your foot.
Additionally, the shoe features a durable rubber outsole, plus a padded tongue and collar. That makes the Adidas Performance CloudFoam have a performance that surpasses user expectations.
The Asics Gel Foundation 13 is the best running shoe for heavy runners because it is fitted with GEL technology cushioning on the fore and hind feet. This helps absorb any shock from impact, while also allowing movement on multiple planes as the foot switches through the gait cycle.
The Asics Gel Foundation 13 is a heavy-duty cushioned shoe. Heavy-duty shoes are not breathable and will stay moisturized for a long time. Understanding that, Asics Gel Foundation 13 has been incorporated into a ComfortDry Sock liner to prevent the accumulation of moisture and bacteria.
Besides, this shoe is only suitable for runners with low to flat arch. Runners with a higher arch will find the shoe too stiff.
Another good candidate for heavy runners is Brooks. Similar to his brothers, Brooks Adrenaline 20 is also equipped with LOFT DNA cushioning that produces consistently balanced, steady, and comfortable strides. With the right amount of cushioning, the Brooks Adrenaline GTS 20 is the perfect shoe for walking, cross training, long distance running or gym workouts.
Apart from that, this shoe is equipped with the perfect combination of cushioning and support that protects your feet like a gentle hug. The upper part of the shoe is also covered with 3D printing, which improves stability and support. In addition, the BioMoGo DNA midsole incorporates a Crash Pad DNA LOFT cushion and the exclusive Guide Rails system for maximum support for the wearer.
Plus, the shoe features a rubber outsole, featuring Omega Flex grooves for improved versatility. Brooks has injected a large rubber compound here to limit the harsh effects of the environment to the shoe, improving its longevity. It is also fitted with Caterpillar shock-resistant gaskets, designed to improve stability during motion.
No matter what shoe you're looking for, the Brooks Adrenaline GTS 20 absolutely is the perfect one.
The Adidas Performance Thrasher 1.1 M is a solidly designed shoe which is suitable for heavy runners who want a pair of walking or trail running shoes.
The Adidas Performance Thrasher 1.1 M features padding on the back of the heel and spacious toe box. Besides, the durability of the shoes is also appreciated. You can use them continuously for 1 year without affecting the grip of the shoe.
Adiwear outsole makes the shoes tend to stick, ensuring your safety when walking on rough soil, sand or gravel.
In addition, the Adidas Performance Thrasher 1.1 M is also designed with a breathable upper. Heavy runners no longer have to worry about smelly feet.
If you have to find a good pair of shoes for multi-purpose exercise activities for overweight people, The Reebok Nano 9 is definitely a good candidate.
These shoes are equipped with EVA foam in the midsole so that overweight people can move easily and flexibly. In addition, the outsole of the shoe is also equipped with two separate rubbers, creating the necessary traction for the wearer.
These shoes are mainly designed for CrossFit exercises such as Squat, Wall Balls, Box Jumps, etc. However, you can also wear them for regular training sessions or jogging. Reebok's Flexweave technology enhances the firmness of the shoe. Whatever form of exercise you do, these shoes provide support, comfort and stability.
The New Balance MT690V1 Trail Shoe is an excellent track shoe for heavy runners. These shoes have a variety of colors to choose from, combined with the unique design of New Balance that will always make you stand out from the crowd.
The New Balance MT690V1 Trail Shoe features a rubber sole, IMEVA midsole for reliable traction as well as good durability.
In addition, the shoe is reinforced with a grooved blade, which helps remove debris such as small rocks and sticks as you walk on the trail. In addition, the upper surface is also adopted with no-seam technology, which helps prevent blisters caused by heavy travel.
All of these factors make it a specialized A-class trail running shoe for heavy runners. These shoes will become a great travelling companion no matter how hard your running trail will be.
Key Features to Consider When Selecting the Best Running Shoe for Heavy Runners
Pronation
Another important thing to consider when choosing a shoe is pronation. Humans have 3 common foot styles. One was those with inward inclined legs - over pronate, the other were those with leaning feet outward - under pronate, three were people with flat feet. Because of this difference, you need to know the characteristics of your feet to choose the right shoes.
Often people who are overweight will have flat feet, so there will be a back leaning phenomenon. Therefore, you need good shoes that will give you a decent shock absorber. In other words, the shoe should have your feet and ankles roll correctly with every stride you take when you land. They help stabilize your gait while keeping your knees strong.
Shock absorbance
One feature that overweight runners should notice when selecting shoe is shock absorbance. Shoes cushioning have a great influence on shock absorbance. People often love soft-cushioned shoes for the elegance and softness of the wearer's foot. However, they usually offer much less in shock absorbance.
Soft-cushioned shoes are not the best shoes for overweight runners. Keep in mind that the heavier you get, the faster the cushioning will compress. After a long time, the cushioning loses the bounce and support to the joints, leaving you with a sluggish and slow run.
Instead, shoes with slightly stiff cushioning are the great option for heavy runners. Such designed shoes have better shock absorption and stability than those with a soft-cushioned design. This will help you use the shoes for a longer time and provide maximum support for your bones and joints.
Arch Support
There are 3 types of arches: low, neutral, and high. Each type of arch corresponds to different types of foot.
If you have flat feet, you should select high-arched shoes. This is because when you are overweight, your arches are very low. When the arch is not high enough, your body is forced to use more force to run, which can cause pain in your knees, ankles and feet. Therefore, you need a lot of arch support because your feet don't have an arch high enough to support the body. To solve this problem, you need to choose shoes that are advertised as having excellent support for your soles.
Apart from this, you should also not choose low arch shoes or barefoot shoes. These shoes may make you look attractive, but they do not support you. If worn for a long time, it can cause undesirable injuries
A Shoe’s Drop
A shoe’s drop - commonly known as the offset – is the difference between the heel height and the forefoot height, measured in millimeters. This is a significant factor that greatly affects the way your foot strikes the ground while running.
Traditionally, the drop of running shoes falls around 10mm and up. This has been shown to bring about comfort for runners since it can provide a lot of cushion in the heel and encourage runners to land first on the heel every time they hit the ground running.
On the other hand, the shoe has a “zero-drop” that offers an equal amount of cushioning under the heels and toes. These are the shoes that 200 lbs runners should avoid as they are so soft, which can make you uncomfortable or even hurt. This is because the lower of the drop, the more a shoe will help to promote a mid-foot strike. This will leave you with Achilles sprains and calf muscle strains after a long run.
Breathability
Another important feature to consider in the search for the best running shoes for heavy runners is the breathability. For heavy people, sweat tends to build up more than normal people; therefore, you should choose shoes with good breathability.
Shoes that do not have a good breathability will leave your feet hot, sweaty and smelly. In contrast, shoes with good breathability will help your feet stay cool and comfortable. When choosing shoes, you should prioritize shoes designed with technical materials that are more breathable than normal shoes. Shoes with good breathability are typically meshed or knitted in the upper section, requiring only the amount of coating required to cover the upper material exactly are what that heavy runners need.
Goal
Keeping in mind that the best shoe for you is the one that has the ability to fulfill your purpose and match your foot characteristics perfectly. You should understand the characteristics of your foot and determine the purpose before buying shoes: Will you wear them often? Are you an excessive sweater? Do you need it to run on the road or on the trail?
These are things you need to pay special attention to when purchasing shoes. Once the above things are clear, you will choose the best shoe for yourself.
Video: Running Shoes for Flat Feet!
Conclusion: My Pick for Best Running Shoe for Heavy Runners
In conclusion, I hope that the know-how tips will help you pick the right shoes to meet your needs. However, if you are still having struggle when picking the right shoes, keep reading in my three best picks for heavy runners.
Best For Trail Running
- Trail Running Shoes: Featuring a protective toe cap, wet traction grip, and 3D advanced chassis for stability, this lighter, softer version of XA Pro 3D lets you play long and hard on any trail or terrain
- No Such Thing as Bad Weather: With an aggressive grip, stability, and protection the iconic Salomon XA Pro 3D line of shoes is perfect for hiking, backpacking, or trail running on every type of terrain
Best For Cross-Training
- Cushioned sole
- Comfort and performance
Best For Orthotics
- A roomy toe box provides ample room for feet to splay, while the midfoot and heel elements frame your foot to hold it in place
- The echelon 7 is also helpful for runners who suffer from underpronation, also known as supination
I hope this guide will be of some help to you to select the best running shoes for overweight runners. In any event, please don’t hesitate to discuss this guide to the best running shoes and provide your opinions below.
Hoping you will find the perfect pair of shoes for your feet.