Running is one of the most authentic and ancient remedies for weight loss. And to run on different terrain you need just the right kind of sneaker especially if you are on the heavier side.
Our recommended best running shoes for heavy runners will help you pick the perfect running shoe if you are thinking about jogging to shred some pounds.
Excessive weight adds extra strain on tendons, bones, and ligaments “says Rick Muhr, co-founder of The Marathon Coalition and a Boston Marathon running coach.
“Running could put up to 2 to 3 times of your body weight pressure to the joints.
So, correct form and the right pair of shoes are essential for all joggers, and this is particularly true for overweight runners, who require more impact protection and support.
Runners are considered “heavy” if their BMI is more than 27. Though BMI is not ideal practice, it might act as a guide when looking for the proper pair of running or walking shoes.
10 Best Running Shoes for Heavy Runners Reviews
Here is a range of athletic shoes that can assist heavier runners in minimizing the strong impact of jogging. Trail running shoes, regular trainers, neutral shoes, hefty stability shoes, and racing flats are all included.
1. ASICS Gel Kayano 28- Our Top Pick: Most Comfortable Running Shoe
Features
- True to Size
- Shoe Weight: 10.9 oz/308g
- Heal to Toe Drop: 10mm
- Category: Neutral runners
- Cushioning: Maximum
The ASICS Gel-Kayano 28 is our top pick for any heavy runner. They are actually more of a stability shoe.
This means they’re extremely supportive and ideal for overpronators. There are a lot of factors that make them so at ease.
This running shoe is made of SpEVA Foam, which provides a sturdy but responsive base. A lively bounce and comfortable cushioning are additionally provided thanks to its EVA sock liner.
The Asics gel Kayano is equipped with premium GEL cushions in both the forefoot and rearfoot. This is one of the most important comfort features of this shoe.
You may not notice much other than their bouncy nature, yet their shock absorption technique top notch.
Additionally, the cushion gives a dynamic toe push-off and heel-to-toe transition.
Aside from comfort, you’ll discover useful features such as an Impact Guiderail System to keep your foot correctly balanced.
Furthermore, you will have ASICS’ Dynamic DuoMax arch support system to boost stability without increased weights, and a heel lock design to protect your foot from wandering about in the shoe.
Pros
- GEL cushioning mechanisms in the fore and rare foot
- Dynamic DuoMax hold up system
- FLYTEFOAM PROPULSION Systems
- Heel lock design
Cons
- None
Final Verdict
We found the Kayano 28 to be faithful to its Kayano heritage. It is well focused on stability, durability, and support, as well as minor modifications to increase comfort and flexibility.
And with more flex, the runner was simply plain fun! For heavy men and women, this is the clear winner. This shoe is ideal for runners who are carrying a few extra pounds.
2. Brooks Women’s Ghost 14- Best Neutral Running Shoes
Features
- True to size
- Shoe Weight: 255g/9oz
- Heal to Toe Drop: 12mm
- Category: Neutral runners
- Cushioning: Maximum
The Ghost 14 is the best neutral shoe for overweight women for its premium gender-friendly features.
Brooks is recognized for its great cushioning, making it an excellent choice for heavier runners. Women tend to have softer feet than heavy men.
So, brook made this running shoe keeping this in mind. This sneaker includes DNA LOFT midsole. It covers the entire mid-section to provide a smooth and soft ride.
And together with BioMoGo DNA cushioning it gives you just the right amount of underfoot softness feels without compromising the responsiveness and durability.
Regardless of how your foot hits the ground, the Segmented Crash Pad will protect it.
This integrated system will support your feet and stride for a seamless heel-to-toe transaction. So, you can use it for cross, trail, road running, and even gym workouts.
The rubber outer sole gives your sole stability and longevity. You will be able to use this runner for a long time.
Pros
- Extra cushioning
- Premium upper and midsole
- Extremely stable on the feet
- Smooth running experience
- Very light
Cons
- Outsole sometimes wears down quickly
Final Verdict
The runner is a steady performer with the ideal combination of long-distance cushioning and riding stability. It performs well both on long and at a steady pace runs.
Version 14 sports a more streamlined top and a snappier forefoot, giving it a little upgrade over version 13.
3. Under Armour Men’s Charged Assert 8 – Best Budget Running Shoe
Features
- True to size
- Shoe Weight: 208g/9.9oz
- Heal to Toe Drop: 10mm
- Category: comfort
- Cushioning: optimal
Assert 8 is one of the best men’s running shoes on our list. This running shoe is the perfect addition for heavy men with wide feet.
The midsole of the Under Armour Charged Assert 8features Charged Cushioning.
This is a cushioning brand that employs compression molded foam to provide responsiveness and durability.
You will notice the squishy-ness of the foam after you put the shoes on to stroll about. It gives a very relaxing feeling. They feature a great EVA sock lining.
So, every step and stride will be comfortable. The EVA along with optimal cushioning, makes up for the best shock absorption technique.
This shoe’s outsole is comprised of solid rubber. This rubber does not completely cover the outsole’s bottom, though.
It is deliberately put on the high-impact regions of the shoes, providing higher durability while weighing less.
The foundation is particularly flexible due to the presence of deep and shallow flex grooves between the midfoot and forefoot.
Pros
- Breathable upper
- Outsole made of anatomical rubber
- perfect arch reinforcement
- Exceptional sturdiness
Cons
- Not enough arch support
Final Verdict
The Assert 8 is a low-cost training shoe. It is really comfortable for people with wide feet. The extra cushioning and stability make it a good road running shoe. You can also use it as a walking shoe.
4. Saucony Women’s Cohesion 10 Running Shoe
Features
- True to size
- Shoe Weight: 281g/9 oz
- Heal to Toe Drop: 12mm
- Category: comfort
- Cushioning: medium
Some sprinters just land harder than most others, causing their shoes to burn out faster.
If you’re on the same page as these guys, the Saucony Women’s Cohesion 10 is the perfect gear for you.
The grid and Injection EVA innovation of Saucony molds to the contour of your foot and responds to your running style.
The shoe has been designed to work with your motion and foot flex grooves when you’re on the move. So, your foot will move naturally and pleasantly in these shoes.
The Heel grid design, that’s carefully placed in a responsive midsole foam for ultimate and more solid cushioning.
It disperses the pressure on the foot over a larger surface area, minimizing the stress on a single spot of the foot.
Hence, the less risk of damage and injury. Walking and jogging about all day may be quite hot and unpleasant.
That’s why the Saucony Cohesion sneaker sports a totally breathable mesh upper that keeps you cool and comfortable throughout the day.
The outsole is also fairly sturdy, and it is built to handle the road’s tough conditions. They are also available in a variety of sizes.
Pros
- Well padded shoe
- Comfortable riding experience
- Durable and good arch support
- Affordable.
Cons
- Narrow feet structure
Final Verdict
Regardless of where your training takes you, you’ll need equipment that can do it all. The Cohesion 10 neutral running shoe provides firm cushioning.
The running shoe also features a heel GRID system and an injection-molded EVA midsole, while a mesh upper provides breathability when needed.
5. Salomon Men’s Alphacross Trail Running Shoe – Best Running Shoes for Heavy Men
Features
- True to size
- Shoe Weight: 300g/10.5 oz
- Heal to Toe Drop: 10mm
- Category: comfort
- Cushioning: medium
The Salomon Alphacross is a versatile trail running shoe for men. These trail shoes are great for traveling off-road, whether you’re trail jogging or running around your neighborhood park.
You won’t even have to worry about the weather thanks to its waterproof protection.
The plush lining and broad fit of the top make it extremely comfortable. Your feet in this trainer are held firmly in position without becoming too stiff; Especially suitable for flat feet.
EnergyCell is used in the midsole. The shock of landing is cushioned by this high-quality EVA foam.
Despite the fact that the shoes are soft, you will feel a lot of energy return. As a result, the trail shoes are suitable for quick off-road trips.
The Contagrip TD outsole blends Salomon’s most durable rubber compound with a deep, aggressive lug design.
You will have maximum traction on all sorts of terrain as a result of this, you will be able to enjoy these shoes for many kilometers to come.
Pros
- Budget-friendly
- running shoe
- Excellent grip
- Suitable for people
- with flat foot
- Slick design
Cons
- Not for wide feet
Final Verdict
Salomon’s Alphacross Blast is an excellent choice for beginning joggers. It checks all the boxes for a trail shoe while being reasonably priced.
The Alphacross Blast is ready to suit your shorter trail runs and occasional treks as long as you don’t need a lot of cushioning or extra room for broader feet.
6. ASICS Women’s Gel-Kahana 8 – Best Trail Running Shoes for Bunions
Features
- True to Size
- Shoe Weight: 9.9 oz/280.66g
- Heel to Toe Drop: 10mm
- Category: Neutral runners
- Cushioning: Maximum
In the running shoe market, finding the best running shoes for heavy runners is a difficult job.
But ASICS Gel-Kahana 8 is a trail shoe designed for neutral and overpronating runners for achieving additional arch support.
The shoe line is noted for its ability to provide all-day comfort even during the most demanding outdoor activities.
The Kahana 8’s gel technology in the heel aids the heavy runners in shock absorption for healthier strides.
The SPEVAFOAM midsole benefits runners with better bounce-back and durability.
The DUOMAX dual-density system adds support and stability, making it an enthusiastic frontrunner of a heavy runner.
The outsole of this shoe is made of AHAR (Asics High Abrasion Rubber). It is intended to give a gripping and long-lasting underside for the Gel Kahana 8.
The sole unit also has flex grooves for increased flexibility when crossing more challenging terrain.
The customer reviews indicate that heavy runners were quite impressed with its excellent ability to toe-off effectively and swiftly handle trail running.
The midsole foam of the Gel-Kahana 8 is designed with a SPEVAfoam to give good energy return and prevent shoe wear.
Its DUOMAX uses a dual-density structure for better support and stability.
To feel comfortable and locked in to avoid slippage during natural foot movements. The lightweight resin TRUSSTIC is placed into the center of the sole unit.
This new configuration reduces twitching during movement and allows for a stabilized movement.
Kahana 8’s gel cushioning is used to help with impact shock absorption and generates an excellent follow-through during the transition.
Any runner will be satisfied with its capacity to keep its feet comfy in wet or warm weather.
The breathable upper mesh of this shoe will provide you with the utmost comfort in long-distance road running.
Pros
- Excellent arch support
- The rough trail performance is well rated
- Heel tab for easier putting on and taking off the shoe
- Heel tab for easier putting on and taking off the shoe
Cons
- Have slipping issue with wet surfaces
- Narrow toe box
Final verdict
The Asics Gel-Kahana 8 is a great trail running shoe that is both comfortable and versatile.
It also has a reasonable price. Despite its flaws, it’s still a good trail running shoe for women that can cross over.
The best thing about this is that you can go from pavement to dirt roads and moderately difficult trails for a meager price.
7. ALTRA Women’s AL0A4VRB TIMP 3 – Best Women’s Trail Running Shoes For Wide Feet
With the suppleness of Altra’s EGO midsole, the midsole features Altra’s superior Quantic midsole technology.
To give a plush-feeling cushioning while keeping your feet comfy and absorbing the impact, these characteristics of lightness and softness were designed.
Outsole rubber used by Altra has a multi-directional lug design that provides excellent traction and shock absorption.
New arrow shapes at the forefoot, and well-spaced longitudinal bars at the heel have been added.
It adapted the square-shaped lugs of earlier Timps to improve uphill traction and downhill performance.
The sticky rubber makes it easier to traverse tricky and rainy conditions.
In addition to having three metatarsal flex grooves under the forefoot, the forefoot appears to have a little more prominent bend at the forefoot toe area.
Pros
- High-Strenght shoe
- Very comfortable
- High-end durability
- Ideal for long road running
- Superb traction
Cons
- Debris piles up
- Low on stability
- Extra-wide toe box causes foot slippage
- Dull ride
Final verdict
Running long distances with these shoes is doable, but it’s not the best choice if you want to speed things up.
It’s too big, unsteady, and allows the debris in! But it can be a good choice for those who need a shoe that’s both extra cushioning and robust.
8. Under Armour Men’s Charged Pursuit 2 – Best Shoes for Beginner Overweight Runners
Features
- True to Size
- Shoe Weight: 10.75oz/305g
- Heel to Toe Drop: 8mm
- Category: Neutral runners
- Cushioning: Plush
The Charged Pursuit’s outsole unit is made of rubber. It helps to protect the midsole part from continuous exposure to rough surfaces.
This running shoe resembles the traction-enhancing surfaces of car tires in its grid-like stripes and sipes.
Forefoot flex grooves provide additional pliability and comfort. As the toe joints bend, the forefoot lift takes advantage of these aspects more than any other.
In the Under Armour Charged Pursuit 2, the whole midsole unit is made out of Charged Cushioning.
Under Armour’s Charged Cushioning replaces the Micro G midsole used in the previous Pursuit model.
This change in the recent version boosted impact attenuation and energized steps.
The primary cushioning unit is covered with a sock liner. This add-on provides additional underfoot support.
For even better heel support, it incorporates additional cushioning at the back.
Engineered mesh is used in the upper unit of the Charged Pursuit 2. The smoothness of this technology makes it feel like you’re wearing a sock.
It is elastic and breathable, allowing the wearer to move freely while staying cool and dry.
Engineered mesh is standard these days, and it is employed in several new renditions of venerable designs, such as the Hoka One One.
Pros
- Highly appealing aesthetic
- Lightweight
- Comfortable
- Dependable traction
Cons
- The upper unit is not as comfortable as claimed
- Breathability issues
Final verdict
If you are thinking of purchasing a high-end running shoe at a reasonable price, look no further.
The Charged Pursuit 2 is an excellent choice for individuals who are just starting out.
The general silhouette is reminiscent of modern sneakers, despite the absence of extraneous details.
9. New Balance Men’s Made in Us 990 V5 – Best Everyday Running Shoes
Features
- True to Size
- Shoe Weight: 13.06oz/370.244g
- Heel to Toe Drop: 12mm
- Category: Neutral runners
- Cushioning: Maximum
The upper unit has a classic look that fans of the 990 series will like. It is made of suede in this version.
The shoe is aided by elements such as the TPU Powerstrap from its previous generation.
The ample padding extends to the tongue, cushioning the top of your foot while protecting it from tight laces.
The sole unit of the 990 v5 is still made of blown rubber and New Balance’s proprietary Ndurance compound, as in all the previous versions.
Whether you’re running or spending all day on your feet, an Ortholite® insert will keep you comfortable and supported.
This running shoe is designed for all-day comfort, and it also has a dual-density collar foam that provides support and comfort for your ankles.
The ENCAP EVA midsole features a polyurethane rim for further strength and durability, as well as a soft EVA cushioning core.
This sneaker is highly cushioned. The midsole foam of this shoe ensures the utmost comfort and stability.
Your feet will be supported, but they will not be squeezed or imprisoned in hard material.
For Women: New Balance Men’s Made in Us 990
Pros
- Very flexible
- High-end stability
- Excellent breathability
- Wide variety of size
- Stylish
Cons
- Highly expensive
- Wider toe box
Final verdict
This particular running shoe will cost you. But if you are willing to buy this one. Your money will not go in vain.
For its comforting cushioning, stability, and support, the 990V5 has taken its place in the category of one of the best running shoes.
These New Balance everyday shoes have a sturdy blown rubber outsole that withstands regular wear and aids in providing comfort with every step.
10. Salewa Men’s Trail Running Shoes – Best Cushioned Running Shoes for Heavy Runners
Features
- True to Size
- Shoe Weight: 13.08oz/371g
- Heel to Toe Drop: 8mm
- Category: Neutral runners
- Cushioning: Moderate
The Dropline is made for moving quickly on the rocky ground. It has a lightweight air mesh construction and the right amount of cushioning so that you can keep going for a long time.
This shoe has a quick-drying Gore-Tex Extended Comfort inner lining that protects against water for a long time and allows air to flow freely.
The rounded Pomoca outsole provides the best traction on all types of ground. With the S-Path design, you can roll naturally and quickly from heel to toe.
The high-performance EVA midsole is lightweight and comfortable, and it reduces the impact force that hits joints and muscles when you run.
The Salewa 3F system, the EXA shell coating, and the heel cap ensure your foot stays in place and doesn’t twist.
It is made of a breathable material called OrthoLite that cushions your feet and keeps them cool and dry.
The Dropline is the best shoe for safe climbing and descending on fast-paced hiking trips in all weather, no matter how wet it is.
It’s based on what Speed Hikers and Fastpackers want: the most comfort they can get.
Pros
- Waterproof
- Excellent Stability
- Supportive wrap
- Protective
Cons
- Heavy
Final verdict
If you’re looking for a hiking shoe that can keep up with you, this one is for you. It responds quickly and smoothly, allowing you to increase your speed without a hitch and having to navigate over hostile terrain.
The Dropline GTX is not only protective, but it also adheres to your body like a pair of claws.
How to Pick the Best Running Shoes for Heavy Runners
If you’re dragging around a few extra pounds, it can be difficult to enjoy your runs and workouts.
The best running shoes for heavy runners are ones that provide adequate support, breathability, stability and are specifically made to fulfill the needs of a heavier runner!
So, here are the things you should consider before buying the best running shoe for you.
Comfort
If you ask any runner, they’ll tell you that if their shoes aren’t comfortable, they won’t wear them.
It is vital to select the best running shoes that are both comfortable and have the cushioning and fit you want if you want to get the most out of your runs.
Breathability
Your feet will be hot, sweaty, and stinky if your shoes don’t have enough ventilation. Your feet will stay cool and comfy if you wear shoes with adequate breathability.
Thus, breathability is an essential consideration in your search for the best running shoes.
Durability
Shoes must be long-lasting, or they are worthless. Runners wear their shoes out far more quickly than non-runners because they are more abrasive than non-runners.
For heavy men, this can happen even more rapidly. Therefore, it’s essential to have a product that can withstand wear and tear.
Stability
With heavy men, stability is sometimes more critical than it is with smaller, lighter individuals.
If you’re taller, this is especially true. A shoe’s total balance and motion control would be covered by its stability.
Support
The more weight that falls, the more likely the support underneath will be inadequate, resulting in discomfort or worse.
To put it simply, if you’re an overweight runner, you’ll need more assistance. So, look out for how much support the shoe of your choice can give before buying.
FAQ’s
What weight is considered a heavy runner?
When a runner’s body mass index (BMI) is greater than 25 or their weight exceeds 90 kg, they are labeled “overweight runners” or “heavy runners.”
Should heavy men wear stability shoes?
Shoes constructed of soft EVA midsole foam are more prone to tire quickly for overweight runners than lighter ones. Running shoes designed for heavy runners should be solid and stable.
Is running bad if you are overweight?
Running when overweight is entirely possible, whether you want to improve your fitness, lose weight, or both.
Conclusion
From our extensive research and user experience, we have found that ASICS Gel Kayano 28 is the top-notch running shoe for male overweight runners.
They might not the most glamorous shoe out there. But they will give you your money’s worth.
Likewise, we recommend Brooks Women’s Ghost 14 for females. But all the shoes in our list of best running shoes for heavy runners will give you quite the experience.
Choose the one that meets your needs and start your weight loss journey.
References
- Running When Overweight: https://www.runtastic.com/blog/en/running-when-overweight/
- Do Heavy Runners need more Shoe Cushioning?: https://matthewboydphysio.com/do-heavy-runners-need-more-shoe-cushioning/
- My Top 5 Running Shoes for Heavy Runners!: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dfMEkreyHz4
