My recommended best running shoes for overweight runners is Brooks Glycerin 17.

Read on to find out why and other great options!

If you are a beginner and overweight, check out the ultimate running guide for overweight runners

Are there running shoes made specifically for overweight runners? Yes, but only if you know how to recognize it, choosing the correct running shoes for you is one of the important things you should do if you’re overweight because wrong running shoes hurt you.

The 11 best running shoes for overweight runners

  1. Asics Gel-Kayano 26 (Best stability shoes)
  2. Adidas Solar Drive 19 (Best for price)
  3. Brooks Glycerin 17 (Recommended)
  4. Brooks Adrenaline GTS 20 (Best for severe overpronation)
  5. Mizuno Wave Rider 23 (Best for cushioning)
  6. Nike Epic React Flyknit (Best lightweight)
  7. Asics Gel Nimbus 22
  8. Reebok Harmony Road 3
  9. Saucony Freedom ISO 2
  10. Altra Paradigm 4.5
  11. Hoka One One Bondi 6
best running shoes for overweight runners

You can’t expect to run for a mile with the wrong shoes. Although choosing a running shoe is largely based on individual preference, there are a few things to look out for if you want a best running experience.

Quick summaries, the three most important characteristics of running shoes for heavy runners are:

  1. Moderate Cushioning
  2. Durable Outsole
  3. Correct shoes upper fitting

Before we get into the good running shoes for overweight runners, I’d like to make it clear what’s considered overweight.

If you have 190lbs of body weight, but 6’ 3’’ high, you are not considered overweight. One way to know if you are classified as overweight or obese is from Body Mass Index(BMI) estimation.

Although it’s not the best method, it does give you a good approximation. Utilize this tool to estimate your BMI for men and use this tool for women BMI

What to look for when choosing a running shoe ?

please note that best running shoes for overweight men are also part of these selection.

Moderate cushioning 

Many beginners will make a mistake by getting a super-cushioned running shoe. Because that’s probably the advice you are likely to get from online forums or local shoe stores.

You heard “running shoes with soft-cushioning have better shock absorption feature for overweight runners”. Such advice is not entirely wrong, but it missed a few points.

Most running shoes with super soft-cushioning have higher stack height (distance between bottom of your foot and the ground). Which makes it relatively unstable, especially on a smooth surface.

Your body will have to constantly try to readjust during runs to keep yourself stable, which isn’t ideal for an overweight runner. Max-cushioning shoes are usually well liked by experienced runners, due to impact protection features over long distances.

running shoes

If you’re just started out, you don’t want to force your body to run for such a long distance without stopping, you probably do not need super-cushioned shoes.

Not saying that you should get rock hard minimal shoes, but a shoe that has a good cushioning system to run comfortably. Avoid max-cushioning shoes if possible!

Durable midsole

A firm and durable midsole is also one of the things you should aim for. Traditional midsole cushioning systems use EVA(Ethyl Vinyl Acetate) rubber foam as shock absorption material in the midsole.

More and more newly designed running shoes use expanded Polyurethane polymer. It holds their cushioning better in the long run.

Such running shoes usually sold at a higher price point than EVA made midsole shoes, due to the cost of material. But they proved to have higher mileage(last longer) than their traditional counterpart.

Firmness and structure integrity in the midsole are important to keep runners stable and comfortable.

One way of preserving the firmness of your running shoes is by rotating between at least 2 running shoes. In this way, both shoes extend their mileage and runners decrease their possibility of an injury. 

Shoes weight doesn’t matter

If you are a frequent marathon runner or into track and field running, the weight of running shoes does play an important role. These racing shoes usually have shorter mileage, but it does give you a greater speed. You are just starting out, it’s advised to just get comfortable shoes with durable cushioning and a proper support system. 

Having more than one pair

Of course you can choose to have just one pair of running shoes at a time. But having multiple running shoes(2 to 3) to be able to rotate on helps to lengthen their mileage. A standard mileage of a shoe is from 350-500 miles, this will depend on the type of running pattern, running terrain and the shoes itself.

It’s important to keep track of total distance travelled for your running shoes. You can track it easily with free apps like Runkeeper or Nike Run Club. Heavier runners should be checking the wear and loss of their shoe when it reaches 200 – 250 mile range, to prevent potential injury.

Asics Gel-Kayano 26 (Best stability shoes)

For Men:

q? encoding=UTF8&ASIN=B07KJJ6WHZ&Format= SL250 &ID=AsinImage&MarketPlace=US&ServiceVersion=20070822&WS=1&tag=athleticgens 20&language=en USir?t=athleticgens 20&language=en US&l=li3&o=1&a=B07KJJ6WHZ

For Women:

q? encoding=UTF8&ASIN=B07KKH9LD7&Format= SL250 &ID=AsinImage&MarketPlace=US&ServiceVersion=20070822&WS=1&tag=athleticgens 20&language=en USir?t=athleticgens 20&language=en US&l=li3&o=1&a=B07KKH9LD7
  • Terrain: Road/Treadmill
  • Activities: Casual Road Running, Long Distance Running
  • Heel offset drop: 10mm
  • Pronation: Overpronation
  • Arch type: Medium Arch
  • Arch support: Stability
  • Weight: 315g(Men) 315g(Women)
  • Strike Pattern: Heel strike

Outsole: AHAR(Asics High abrasion Rubber) outsole, made up of blown rubber. This material is used in the heel section of shoes, its durable construction helps to lengthen the life of midsole material. Forefoot section of the shoe is made up of DuraSponge.

A softer material than heel section; such design helps you in the toe-off phase, allowing you to have a better gait cycle. ASICS Gel-Kayano 26 is known for its durability for long distance runners.  

Midsole: ASICS Gel shock absorption technology is used to design the majority part of midsole. This silicon gel material absorbs shock generated by foot strike., you will get a smoother ride with this shoe. The Dynamic DuoMaxTM is a dense foam present under your midfoot to support the arch.

It helps runners with overpronation to gain stability during run or standing idly. A removable sockliner design by ASICS offers your foot extra cushioning. It also have antibacterial and anti moisture features to keep your feet odourless.

Upper: The upper unit is made up of jacquard mesh. The material offers flexibility for you to stretch freely, without sacrificing fitting properties. The FluidFitTM construction adapts to the motion of your foot as you run.

Highlight(s): If you have a flat-feet or overpronation, this stability running shoe is right for you. It is praised for its high quality midsole and responsiveness. The shoe appeared to be worth buying despite a slight higher price point. However, it do face some criticism about narrow toe-boxes for some runners. 

Pro(s):

  • High quality midsole
  • High responsiveness 
  • Durable Outsole
  • Good for overpronator

Cons(s): 

  • Some runners want a wider toe-box 
  • Midsole is too thin for some buyer

Adidas Solar Drive 19 (Best for price)

For Men:

q? encoding=UTF8&ASIN=B07KX9SSGN&Format= SL250 &ID=AsinImage&MarketPlace=US&ServiceVersion=20070822&WS=1&tag=athleticgens 20&language=en USir?t=athleticgens 20&language=en US&l=li3&o=1&a=B07KX9SSGN

For Women:

q? encoding=UTF8&ASIN=B07LBVQTSF&Format= SL250 &ID=AsinImage&MarketPlace=US&ServiceVersion=20070822&WS=1&tag=athleticgens 20&language=en USir?t=athleticgens 20&language=en US&l=li3&o=1&a=B07LBVQTSF
  • Terrain: Road/Treadmill
  • Activities: Casual Road Running, Long Distance Running
  • Heel to toe offset(drop): 10mm
  • Pronation: Neutral
  • Arch type: High Arch
  • Arch support: Neutral 
  • Weight: 318g(Men) 278g(Women)
  • Strike Pattern: Heel strike

Outsole: Wear resistant technology(AdiwearTM) in outsole design protects the shoe from uneven surface. Most buyers are satisfied with the traction provided by this shoe in their run. Shoes with good traction provide you enough stability.

This is so important to reduce the chance of possible injury, especially for plus-sized runners.

Midsole: You might have heard before, Adidas Boost Technology. Solar Drive 19 utilizes this technology to boost your running speed, by having efficient energy return in take off phase.

This is achieved by natural properties of material used by Adidas in their midsole, as opposed to standard EVA midsole. With great stability and boost features, this midsole does perform a good job in giving runners a smooth running experience.

Upper: Standard engineered mesh upper. It provides enough breathability by permitting air to flow through the shoes, which also means the shoes aren’t waterproof. This type of upper construction is suitable for people who like casual road/treadmill running, especially in summer. 

Highlight(s): Most buyers have a positive feedback after getting this shoe. The most notable feature is the comfort it offers over long distance running. Due to the efficient midsole technology, Adidas Drive 19 is relatively light and responsive, allowing long distance runners to preserve their energy in the long run.

However, there are some complaints about the stiffness of the shoes, some users think that the shoe’s upper can be softer.  

Pro(s):

  • Breathable upper
  • Durable Outsole
  • Affordable
  • Good traction 
  • Efficient midsole construction

Cons(s): 

  • Some buyer think shoe upper is too stiff

Brooks Glycerin 17 (Recommended)

For Men:

q? encoding=UTF8&ASIN=B07LCXCM86&Format= SL250 &ID=AsinImage&MarketPlace=US&ServiceVersion=20070822&WS=1&tag=athleticgens 20&language=en USir?t=athleticgens 20&language=en US&l=li3&o=1&a=B07LCXCM86

For Women:

q? encoding=UTF8&ASIN=B07D3YN31Z&Format= SL250 &ID=AsinImage&MarketPlace=US&ServiceVersion=20070822&WS=1&tag=athleticgens 20&language=en USir?t=athleticgens 20&language=en US&l=li3&o=1&a=B07D3YN31Z
  • Terrain: Road/Treadmill
  • Activities: Road Running, Treadmill Running, Marathon Training, Long Distance Running
  • Heel offset drop: 10mm
  • Pronation: Neutral
  • Arch type: High Arch
  • Arch support: Neutral 
  • Weight: 300g(Men) 261g(Women)
  • Strike Pattern:Heel strike

Outsole: The entire bottom of the midsole is covered with rubber compound, which has a net-like structure to provide enough traction and protection to the midsole. Flex grooves structure designed by brooks in this shoe allow the shoes to bend naturally during heel-to-toe transition.

See also  7 Best Trail Running Shoes with Achilles Support

It’s a standard outsole for casual road running, if you are into trail running, this might not be your go-to shoe.  

Midsole: Brooks utilizes its DNA LOFT technology, which uses a long lasting foam to create a relatively thick cushioning system. It doesn’t have a substantial weight despite its thick cushioning. Many runners expressed their satisfaction with its responsiveness during the toe-off phase.

Above the midsole is the OrthoLite sockliner, which is said to have anti-moisture and antibacterial properties. 

Upper: Woven cloth is used to make up the shoe upper. Many runners love its soft construction, the material adapts to the natural shape and motion of your foot as you run with this shoe.

This shoe’s upper receives many positive feedback from existing buyers from various online shopping sites.

Breathing hole is present in various parts of the shoe upper to allow ventilation and air circulation. Sets of synthetic print(3D print technology) are present in the left, right, and heel side of the shoe not only to add colour to the shoe upper. It also results in firmer upper with long lasting integrity.  

Highlight(s): Without surprise, this shoe impresses many runners with its overall shoe quality. Lots of people use this shoe for speed training, casual road running and even gym exercising. With its medium cushioned midsole and firm shoe upper, it’s a shoe that is worth considering for overweight runners. 

Pro(s):

  • Comfortable shoe upper
  • Outsole with great traction
  • Responsive and light midsole

Cons(s): 

  • Some people don’t like its colour

Brooks Adrenaline GTS 20 (Best for severe overpronation)

For Men:

q? encoding=UTF8&ASIN=B07LCVMN2G&Format= SL250 &ID=AsinImage&MarketPlace=US&ServiceVersion=20070822&WS=1&tag=athleticgens 20&language=en USir?t=athleticgens 20&language=en US&l=li3&o=1&a=B07LCVMN2G

For Women:

q? encoding=UTF8&ASIN=B07LCS7C97&Format= SL250 &ID=AsinImage&MarketPlace=US&ServiceVersion=20070822&WS=1&tag=athleticgens 20&language=en USir?t=athleticgens 20&language=en US&l=li3&o=1&a=B07LCS7C97
  • Terrain: Road/Treadmill
  • Activities: Road Running, Marathon Training
  • Heel offset drop: 12mm
  • Pronation: Severe overpronation
  • Arch type: Low Arch
  • Arch support: Motion control 
  • Weight: 302g(Men) 266g(Women)
  • Strike Pattern: Rearfoot strike

Outsole: Brooks makes use of blown rubber(air-injected rubber) in its construction of the entire outsole of this shoe. This material is more light and flexible than the conventional rubber, allowing it to have better protection against abrasion.

Like Brooks Glycerin 17, Flex grooves structure designed by brooks in this shoe allow the shoes to bend naturally during heel-to-toe transition.

Midsole: This running shoe is specially designed for people with severe overpronation who need a support system. GuideRails support technology by Brooks keeping your foot in place in the case of excessive movement.

Overpronators and even neutral runners who have poor gait cycle should make use of this feature to correct their striking and toe-off pattern.

Other than DNA Loft technology like Glycerin 17, this shoe also uses BioMoGo DNA foam, which is a firmer material, to provide responsive structure to the toe area.

Overall, this is a medium cushioned structure that provides runners with a good amount of comfort with responsiveness. 

Upper: Double layer FlexFit upper was designed to fit and stabilize the foot of overpronator. The firmness in shoe upper helps to secure the runner’s foot in place, yet doesn’t sacrifice flexibility.

Despite the double layer upper feature of this shoe, Brooks was able to come up with lightweight upper structure. 

Highlight(s): Best for people with flat-feet or severe overpronation. The shoes receive compliments for its quality midsole, wide toe-room, and modern looking shoe upper. Some people are disappointed with its narrow heel section, and lack of colour choice. Overall, people with overpronation are satisfied with the performance offered.

If you are plus-sized runner with severe overpronation, this shoe is definitely recommended, without question. 

Pro(s):

  • Roomy toe-box
  • Quality midsole support system for runner with overpronation
  • Modern-looking design
  • Firm but flexible shoe upper 

Cons(s): 

  • Narrow heel section for some runner

Mizuno Wave Rider 23 (Best for cushioning)

For Men:

q? encoding=UTF8&ASIN=B07QR77WC4&Format= SL250 &ID=AsinImage&MarketPlace=US&ServiceVersion=20070822&WS=1&tag=athleticgens 20&language=en USir?t=athleticgens 20&language=en US&l=li3&o=1&a=B07QR77WC4

For Women:

q? encoding=UTF8&ASIN=B07QSCDHL4&Format= SL250 &ID=AsinImage&MarketPlace=US&ServiceVersion=20070822&WS=1&tag=athleticgens 20&language=en USir?t=athleticgens 20&language=en US&l=li3&o=1&a=B07QSCDHL4
  • Terrain: Road/Treadmill
  • Activities: Road Running, Marathon Training, Long Distance Running
  • Heel offset drop: 12mm
  • Pronation: Neutral
  • Arch type: High Arch
  • Arch support: Neutral 
  • Weight: 289g(Men) 241g(Women) 
  • Strike Pattern: Heel strike

Outsole: Durable carbon rubber makes up the heel section of the outsole, giving runner traction during heel striking. Meanwhile, forefoot outsole uses a softer blown rubber to provide enough responsiveness during toe-off phase. The plush quality of blown rubber also acts as an extra layer of cushioning to support the midsole.

Midsole: Different technologies that Brooks created are put together to create a lightweight and durable midsole. The U4ic is a lightweight foam used as the main cushioning material from heel to toe.

U4icX, which is only located in the heel section, is a softer foam that can help you in shock absorption during heel striking phase.

A piece of rubber, made from TPU(Thermoplastic Polyurethane), is present under your heel to give you springiness during heel striking or just standing up.

These midsole technologies greatly increase the mileage of the shoe, and provide some level of firmness and responsiveness to the midsole, which is perfect for overweight runners.

Upper: Wave Rider 23 ‘s upper is made up of dual layer engineered mesh. It gives you a good level of comfort and flexibility, while preventing debris to enter from small holes. Many runners are happy with the shoe upper because of its stretchability.

Dynamotion Fit Technology by Mizuno wraps around your foot naturally, even when your foot expands or shrinks, if you get the correct size.

Highlight(s): Mizuno Wave Rider series has been on the market for a long time. It remains a reliable choice for runners who look for durable running shoes that can withstand a high mileage. With the consistency in providing comfort and supportive midsole, each version in the series doesn’t disappoint most of the runners. 

Pro(s):

  • Stretchable upper
  • Roomy toe-box
  • Durable and supportive midsole, good for overweight runner
  • Lightweight

Cons(s): 

  • People who own Mizuno Rider 22 think it’s not worth upgrading, commenting that overall design is almost the same. 

Nike Epic React Flyknit (Best lightweight)

For Men:

q? encoding=UTF8&ASIN=B00JFRKAWC&Format= SL250 &ID=AsinImage&MarketPlace=US&ServiceVersion=20070822&WS=1&tag=boladale21 20&language=en USir?t=boladale21 20&language=en US&l=li3&o=1&a=B00JFRKAWC

For Women:

q? encoding=UTF8&ASIN=B07QK2YLCG&Format= SL250 &ID=AsinImage&MarketPlace=US&ServiceVersion=20070822&WS=1&tag=athleticgens 20&language=en USir?t=athleticgens 20&language=en US&l=li3&o=1&a=B07QK2YLCG
  • Terrain: Road
  • Activities: Road Running, Marathon Training
  • Heel offset drop: 10mm
  • Pronation: Neutral
  • Arch type: High Arch
  • Arch support: Neutral 
  • Weight: 239g(Men) 195g(Women) 
  • Strike Pattern: Heel Strike

Outsole: Unlike the conventional outsole, where shoe’s bottom is covered by rubber, Nike Epic React Knit only places 2 thick translucent rubber on the toe and heel section of the outsole. These 2 rubber were placed strategically to give you enough traction on various surfaces. 

Midsole: Nike claims that the shoe is at the cutting edge of sneaker innovation. With its newly designed midsole. The rubber-based midsole is 30% lighter than most of the conventional midsole, it’s called “React foam”. 

Nike also introduces a new technology, called “Fluid Geometry”. They alter the design of the midsole by extending the midsole rubber to the heel side, this helps to enhance stability of runners. If you’re getting the shoes, expect it to be responsive, medium cushioned and bouncy. 

Upper: Upper of Nike React Flyknit is made up of a single piece element (Flyknit Cleatie). The minimal construction results in great breathability. It’s perfect for people who love lightweight, and breathable shoes. 

Highlight(s): Newly designed midsole has just the right amount of cushioning, without being too soft or too firm, as explained by one of the reviewers. The shoes are perfect for overweight runners who like road running, with lightweight shoes. Most people are pleased with how responsive the midsole is.

However, the shoe isn’t without criticism, some people complained that the 2 rubber on toe and heel side of the outsole wear out too quickly. 

Pro(s):

  • Breathable upper
  • Light, durable and bouncy midsole (Great feature!)
  • Great energy return during toe off
  • Upper fit the foot easily

Cons(s): 

  • Outsole isn’t durable for some people
  • Rigid heel counter

5 Alternative running shoes

Asics Gel Nimbus 22

For Men:

q? encoding=UTF8&ASIN=B082D57HMY&Format= SL250 &ID=AsinImage&MarketPlace=US&ServiceVersion=20070822&WS=1&tag=athleticgens 20&language=en USir?t=athleticgens 20&language=en US&l=li3&o=1&a=B082D57HMY

For Women:

q? encoding=UTF8&ASIN=B082NN9J64&Format= SL250 &ID=AsinImage&MarketPlace=US&ServiceVersion=20070822&WS=1&tag=athleticgens 20&language=en USir?t=athleticgens 20&language=en US&l=li3&o=1&a=B082NN9J64
  • Terrain: Road/Treadmill
  • Activities: Casual Road Running, Marathon Training, Long Distance Running
  • Heel offset drop: 10mm
  • Pronation: Neutral
  • Arch type: High Arch
  • Arch support: Neutral 
  • Weight: 309g(Men) 255(Women) 
  • Strike Pattern: Heel Strike

Reebok Harmony Road 3

For Men:

q? encoding=UTF8&ASIN=B07DGV621F&Format= SL250 &ID=AsinImage&MarketPlace=US&ServiceVersion=20070822&WS=1&tag=athleticgens 20&language=en USir?t=athleticgens 20&language=en US&l=li3&o=1&a=B07DGV621F

For Women:

q? encoding=UTF8&ASIN=B07DGW9Q1N&Format= SL250 &ID=AsinImage&MarketPlace=US&ServiceVersion=20070822&WS=1&tag=athleticgens 20&language=en USir?t=athleticgens 20&language=en US&l=li3&o=1&a=B07DGW9Q1N
  • Terrain: Road
  • Activities: Road Running, Marathon Training, Long Distance Running
  • Heel offset drop: 10mm
  • Pronation: Neutral
  • Arch type: High Arch
  • Arch support: Neutral 
  • Weight: 275g(Men) 247g(Women) 
  • Strike Pattern: Heel strike

Saucony Freedom ISO 2

For Men:

q? encoding=UTF8&ASIN=B07MGJQP64&Format= SL250 &ID=AsinImage&MarketPlace=US&ServiceVersion=20070822&WS=1&tag=athleticgens 20&language=en USir?t=athleticgens 20&language=en US&l=li3&o=1&a=B07MGJQP64

For Women:

q? encoding=UTF8&ASIN=B07Q9SKTW5&Format= SL250 &ID=AsinImage&MarketPlace=US&ServiceVersion=20070822&WS=1&tag=athleticgens 20&language=en USir?t=athleticgens 20&language=en US&l=li3&o=1&a=B07Q9SKTW5
  • Terrain: Road
  • Activities: Road Running, Marathon Training, Long Distance Running
  • Heel offset drop: 4mm
  • Pronation: Neutral
  • Arch type: High Arch
  • Arch support: Neutral 
  • Weight: 258g(Men) 232g(Women) 
  • Strike Pattern: Forefoot strike

Altra Paradigm 4.5

For Men:

q? encoding=UTF8&ASIN=B07NBRM99T&Format= SL250 &ID=AsinImage&MarketPlace=US&ServiceVersion=20070822&WS=1&tag=athleticgens 20&language=en USir?t=athleticgens 20&language=en US&l=li3&o=1&a=B07NBRM99T

For Women:

q? encoding=UTF8&ASIN=B07NBM4L2F&Format= SL250 &ID=AsinImage&MarketPlace=US&ServiceVersion=20070822&WS=1&tag=athleticgens 20&language=en USir?t=athleticgens 20&language=en US&l=li3&o=1&a=B07NBM4L2F
  • Terrain: Road/Treadmill
  • Activities: Casual Road Running, Marathon Training, Long Distance Running
  • Heel offset drop: 0mm
  • Pronation: Overpronation
  • Arch type: Medium Arch
  • Arch support: Stability
  • Weight: 318g(Men) 261g(Women) 
  • Strike Pattern: Forefoot strike

Hoka One One Bondi 6

For Men:

q? encoding=UTF8&ASIN=B07DDMM67N&Format= SL250 &ID=AsinImage&MarketPlace=US&ServiceVersion=20070822&WS=1&tag=athleticgens 20&language=en USir?t=athleticgens 20&language=en US&l=li3&o=1&a=B07DDMM67N

For Women:

q? encoding=UTF8&ASIN=B07L5PND6K&Format= SL250 &ID=AsinImage&MarketPlace=US&ServiceVersion=20070822&WS=1&tag=athleticgens 20&language=en USir?t=athleticgens 20&language=en US&l=li3&o=1&a=B07L5PND6K
  • Terrain: Road/Treadmill
  • Activities: Casual Road Running, Marathon Training, Long Distance Running
  • Heel offset drop: 4mm
  • Pronation: Neutral 
  • Arch type: Medium Arch
  • Arch support: Neutral
  • Weight: 303g(Men) 252g(Women) 
  • Strike Pattern: Forefoot strike
See also  5 Best running shoes for calf pain

In case you are trying to lose some weight…

It’s without a doubt that running is an excellent sport for weight loss.  But there are other things you need to incorporate in your routine if you are trying to slim down. One of the important things, probably more important than running, diet (no surprise).

Calorie Deficit

You probably heard it before, but it’s worth reminding. In order to lose extra weight, you need to allow your body to be in a state of “calorie deficit”. So it uses body fat to convert energy that you need in daily activity. Running requires substantial energy, it allows your body to convert body fat into energy, but that is just the second part.

healthy food

You need to reduce calorie intake first! Runners often make a mistake by overcompensating for calories used in exercising by eating too much after calories-burning activities.

You will certainly feel hungry after running, reducing your calorie intake after running is a great thing you can do if you are trying to lose weight. You can get a meal plan from verywellfit.com.  

Why don’t I see any progress?

A reasonable rate of weight losing is about 1 to 2llbs per week. If you constantly run and perform cardio activities, your body will get stronger, leaner and grow more muscle. You might even see an increase in weight in this situation due to muscle weight. You are encouraged to use other methods to keep track of your progress, like body fat percentage, or noticing your clothes fitting. 

How to reduce belly fat with running?

Running will not help you to reduce fat in specified areas (spot-reducing). Though it’s an extremely great activity for reducing visceral fat( fat that is stored within the abdominal cavity). Combining a proper meal plan and aerobic exercise like running and other cardio activity is the best way to start losing belly fat!

slim women running

How can I run less and get more results?

The key to get more results in any fitness program is consistency. You don’t want to get burned out in a month and stop for a few months. Start small(click to see benefit of starting small).

I know it’s a little out of topic here, but I’ve seen many people start and give up in the first few months. Start small and allow your body to get used to new activities, this will help you to stick to new habits and be consistent. 

best running shoes for overweight flat feet

Being overweight can be the cause of flat feet with the weight on the feet, more stress is put onto the big metatarsal bones at the ball of your foot that can cause a flatfoot or more commonly known as plantar fasciitis.  

In an attempt to relieve some of this pain and pressure, you might be inclined to buy a shoe with a large heel, but that is not always the best solution.  

Using a shoe with a built up heel can actually cause more issues down the line including knee pain, back pain, and injury to the Achilles tendon.

The first thing you should do if you are overweight is to buy some insoles or orthotics, these products will help give your foot the support it needs so that more stress is not placed on it.  

Insoles can also help with any other foot issues that you might have including hammer toes, neuromas, bunions and more.  

If you are suffering from plantar fasciitis then consider picking up an insole with extra heel cushioning to prevent your foot from being so flat when running or standing for extended periods of time.

Most insoles can be placed into your shoes without any issues but if you are worried about them fitting inside the shoe then try looking for a running shoe with more room in it, buying wide fitting shoes is also a good idea as overweight people tend to have wider feet than normal so this will help relieve some pain.  

1. Brooks Women’s Adrenaline GTS 21

Wide toe box for comfortable fit

Removable insert included to help with specific foot problems

Supportive midsole that provides stability

Minimal heel drop for better movement

2. Nike Men’s Zoom Structure+ 16

Available in widths Narrow, Medium and Wide

Motion lockdown technology for better fit

Midsole cushioning designed to absorb impact

3. New Balance Men’s MW577 Running Shoe

For people who like a little extra cushioning you can not go wrong with these. They are available in widths Narrow, Medium and Wide so they should fit your feet pretty well too.

4. ASICS Women’s GEL-Kayano 23

Full length SpEVA midsole for maximum cushioning

Heel and forefoot dual density cushioning

Fluidride technology for smoother stride

5. Brooks Men’s Adrenaline GTS 16

Removable insoles included to help with specific foot problems

Aggressive tread for maximum traction

Compression molded foam medial post to help with pronation control.

Wrap it up…

I hope you find this post helpful! Choosing the right shoe for you can be hard if you are not equipped with the correct information. Having to narrow down with all these shoe technologies is surely a daunting task.

q? encoding=UTF8&ASIN=B07LCXCM86&Format= SL250 &ID=AsinImage&MarketPlace=US&ServiceVersion=20070822&WS=1&tag=athleticgens 20&language=en USir?t=athleticgens 20&language=en US&l=li3&o=1&a=B07LCXCM86

Brooks Glycerin 17 continues to be my recommendation due to its comfortable fitting and high quality mid and outsole, which I think it’s suitable for most overweight runners. If you are running to lose weight, schedule you running/ cardio exercise hours, combine with an effective meal plan. Running can be a super effective exercise if you are consistent. See you on the road!  

“Make sure to follow me on Pinterest for more awesome content like this! (click on pinterest icon below)”. 

FAQ

Should overweight runners wear stability shoes?

Stable/neutral shoes are generally recommended to maximize injury reduction for people with overweight, whether they’re running or not. The thinking is that unstable shoes will encourage the person to run improperly and increase their risk of joint damage.

What weight is considered a heavy runner?

For a woman, 158 pounds is heavy. For a man, 174 pounds is heavy.

How much more painful are obese runners when they run?

Obese people who run have to work harder than normal weight runners to propel themselves forward and up hills. This means that the forces borne by their joints are higher in some cases 30% higher.

Obese runners have a greater risk of developing knee osteoarthritis than normal weight runners, even if their time spent running is comparable.

They do not necessarily have higher injury rates because they are obese, but rather may have worse outcomes because the increased forces generated by their joints may be especially destructive to already weakened joints.

This makes it very important for obese runners to buy a good pair of shoes and take a little extra time warming up before a run. Make sure you get fitted by an expert, and don’t be afraid to try on several models before you make your purchase.

Many people find stability shoes more comfortable for this reason because they provide more support.

Are Hokas running shoes good for overweight runners?

Hoka’s running shoes do not provide the extra stability that might be necessary. They encourage a forefoot or midfoot strike which is generally less stable than a heel-strike and may lead to falling forward onto your toes, increasing impact forces.

The best choice for obese runners is probably one of Brooks’ Transcend models. It’s important to keep in mind that many obese runners do not have foot or gait issues, so they should buy the shoes for their function, rather than trying to accommodate a preexisting problem.

Do Heavier runners need more cushioned shoes?

This seems logical, but no. People who are not overweight usually have more cushioning in their shoes because they need it to absorb the extra impact forces produced by their joints when they run. Obese people produce less impact force than normal weight people running at the same speed for this reason.

Thus, obese runners can get away with wearing slightly less cushioned shoes than non-obese runners, as long as they still fit them well.

Do overweight runners need wide running shoes?

There is no reason to believe that overweight people should wear wider running shoes than normal weight people. As long as the shoe fits and provides enough support, you do not need to worry about width except for comfort reasons.

How long do running shoes last for heavy runners?

Shoes should be replaced every 350-500 miles, regardless of weight.

What is the best shoe for an obese runner?

The best shoes are the ones that fit the person and provide enough support without encouraging instability. For people with large amounts of excess weight, it may be difficult to find a pair that fits well, but this is a matter of using your best judgement and trying on several models. Stability running shoes are usually a good choice, but not for everyone.

See also  Barkley Marathon: The Ultimate Test of Endurance and Determination

New Balance is the only company that I know of that has specialty shoes just for obese or overweight runners. Their shoes have more reinforcement in the midsole so they don’t compress as much with heavy runners.

Hoka is another good brand for heavy runners because the midsole has a lot of cushioning to absorb impacts, and it has a wider last with more room in the toe box. Brooks Transcend shoes would be good as well. Don’t forget you need to factor in your weight when buying running shoes due to heavier people can make a shoe wear down faster.

Are Brooks Adrenaline good for heavy runners?

Brooks is a solid brand for heavy runners, but it doesn’t have anything special in its line just for obese people. The Brooks Adrenaline series has plenty of support and cushioning to absorb impacts.

The Brooks Transcend shoes are ideal for heavier running because they also have a wider last with more room in the toe box, which keeps the foot from sliding around inside the shoe.

Are Hoka running shoes heavy?

Hoka shoes are heavy, but their midsole has a huge amount of cushioning to absorb impacts. This often leads people to think they’re clunky and heavy when in reality, they just have so much foam.

Which running shoe is the best one for obese runners?

The Brooks Transcend series is ideal for larger runners because its wide last and toe box keeps the foot from sliding around inside, preventing blisters. Its strong heel counter keeps the foot in place while running, which is important for people who pronate or supinate (turn their feet inward or outward).

Which shoes are best for heavy runners?

Some of the best brands for heavy runners are Brooks, Hoka One One, New Balance, Mizuno, and Asics. They have strong heel counters to keep the foot in place while running, thick foam midsoles to absorb impact forces, large toe boxes for normal gait cycles, wide lasts with enough room for the foot inside the shoe so it doesn’t slide around or get blisters due to friction, and strong uppers that won’t tear as easily as thinner ones.

What is the best shoe for large feet?

The best shoe for a larger feet is one that fits well, has a wide last with enough room in the toe box to prevent friction blisters, doesn’t have seams pressing into your foot because it will cause irritation and blisters, and has enough support for your arch so it doesn’t collapse as easily.

When buying running shoes, make sure to try them on in the afternoon when your feet tend to swell a little bit so you can get an accurate size. Also, if you’re going to be running long distances, don’t go with the assumption that your feet will fit into shoes the same way as they do when you’re just walking around because running can damage your feet.

What are the best high impact running shoes?

Some of the best high impact running shoes are Hoka One One, New Balance, Brooks Adrenaline, Mizuno Wave Universe, Mizuno Wave Rider, Nike Air Max Fury , and Adidas Energy Boost 2. They have thick supportive midsoles with extra cushioning to absorb big impacts in a short amount of time. This makes them ideal for faster paced runs or sprints because it’s difficult to run at a fast pace for long periods of time on your feet without having the proper shoes.

Some of these shoes aren’t designed specifically for high impact workouts, but if you’re just doing them occasionally, they should do the job. High impact running shoes are usually thicker with more cushioning so the impacts of running or sprinting aren’t as jarring on your body.

What is drop in a running shoe?

A drop is the difference in heel-to-toe height between the heel and toe. Some shoes have zero drops, which puts you at a higher risk for knee injuries because your knees can’t handle as much impact as they would with a shoe that has more drop to it.

For obese runners, or people who run long distances, I recommend shoes with the highest drop possible, anywhere between 12mm-20mm. This helps keep impact forces at a minimum because you’re running on the flat part of the shoe rather than up near your toes.

Is running good for all muscles?

Running is great for all the muscles in your legs, and can strengthen and tone them as well. It’s also a good cardiovascular workout that gets blood moving and helps with endurance.

How do I start running?

If you’ve never run before, try walking for a minute and running for 30 seconds to one minute. Start with two such intervals and add on another interval every couple of days or so. Once you can do that easily, increase the time you’re running by about 15% and then add in more intervals again after a couple of days.

read this article for in-depth details of how to start running.

Are Crocs good for bad knees?

Crocs have a flat bottom, which is good for bad knees because it helps take strain off of them. They’re also light and very flexible so they can work as a great option for runners with sensitive knees or who pronate easily.

Are Vibrams good shoes?

Vibram FiveFingers are shoes that cover your feet like gloves. They work well for people who want to strengthen the muscles in their feet, but they aren’t ideal for running because they’re made of very thin materials and don’t have much support.

Are motion control shoes good?

Motion control shoes are usually for people with very flat feet or who overpronate. They tend to be quite heavy, bulky, and stiff to help minimize the effects of over-pronation on your body.

Can the wrong running shoes cause knee pain?

It’s possible your wrong running shoes can cause knee pain, but it depends on the type of pain you’re experiencing. If you’re feeling discomfort behind your kneecap, then I recommend buying some better insoles for additional support because that usually means your arches are too low and aren’t taking enough strain off of the underside portion of the kneecap.

If you have knee pain because of the wrong shoes, it’s usually because your knees are absorbing too much shock from each step even though you have good cushioning in your shoe. For some people, running with a higher drop and more cushion will help while others need to look for a lower drop and/or more minimalistic shoes.

Is running bad for your knees?

Excessively long periods of running or intense workouts can contribute to knee injuries, but it’s usually because the knees are absorbing too much shock so they become weakened over time.

Most people have no problems with running unless they have some sort of pre-existing condition that weakens the ligaments in their knees. Even then, if you take care of your body and wear the right shoes, you’re not likely to have problems.

Why do I get cramps when I run?

If you’re getting cramps while running, it’s probably because you’re not fueling yourself properly before a run. Eat a small snack that includes some carbohydrates and protein about 30 minutes to an hour before you begin running, and drink plenty of water during your workout.

Are bad shoes the only cause of shin splints?

Bad shoes are often the main reason people get shin splints but they can also be caused by overworking your body or not wearing the proper shoes for your foot type. Dehydration can also cause shin splints, so it’s important to stay hydrated and do some light stretching before a run if you’re going to be running a marathon.

Is barefoot running good?

Barefoot running is an incredible way to strengthen your muscles, get a cardiovascular workout, and burn more calories. However, it’s not good for everyone. If you have foot pain or knee problems, barefoot running can make them worse so it’s best to stick with running in minimalist shoes until you know how your body will react.

Are Birkenstocks good for bad knees?

Birkenstocks are a great option if you have bad knees for three reasons. First, they’re usually made of very thick and cushiony material that helps absorb shock and take strain off the knees.

Second, their flat soles also help stabilize feet and keep them in alignment with your legs which can be helpful for people who pronate or supinate too much. Third, they’re incredibly comfortable which means you won’t mind wearing them all day long even if you have bad knees.

Write A Comment

Pin It