If you’re here, you’ve probably decided that it’s time to turn your life around, and we couldn’t be more proud of you! There’s nothing better than feeling good in your skin, and running is a great way to do so. Because of that, we’ve decided to make a list of some of the best shoes for beginner overweight runners.
If you’re on the heavier side, running is a perfect way to get yourself into fitness. Although it might be hard at first, you’ll start feeling better as the sessions go on. The pride you’ll feel for doing something good for yourself will keep you motivated, and the results will start to show pretty fast.
However, to stay motivated, it’s important to make the whole experience enjoyable. A good pair of running shoes plays a huge role in that. Getting into running can be hard on itself, if you add uncomfortable footwear on top of it, it might make it harder for you to stay consistent.
Before you get started, it’s important to think about some things first. Mainly, make sure you know what kind of running shoes you’ll need.
If you’re overweight, you’ll need shoes that will provide you with enough support. That way, you’ll avoid any running-related injuries, which often include knee pain and shin splints.
Taking on running is a perfect New Year’s resolution, and we’re happy to be a part of it with our picks of the best shoes for beginner overweight runners. Before we go over our favorite pairs, we’ll see why it’s important to find the right footwear, and what are some things you should pay attention to.
What to look for in running shoes?
Choosing the right footwear becomes ten times easier when you know what to look for. There’s a huge variety of styles and types on the market, but to choose the best shoes for beginner overweight runners, it’s important to look for what your body requires.
There’s no “one size fits all” when it comes to running footwear because everyone should listen to what their body is telling them. There are a lot of factors that influence the type of shoes you need, such as your biomechanics, the shape of your feet, and weight.
Because of that, you shouldn’t listen to what your friend considers ideal running footwear, but rather get advice from your doctor, and start searching for your perfect pair. Here are some things you should pay attention to.
1. Consider going one size bigger
Although it’s common sense that you should wear running shoes that are your size, that’s not always the case. During your running session, your foot might spread inside your shoe more than when you’re simply walking around town.
On top of that, it’s common for feet to swell during running, and your footwear to start feeling too tight and uncomfortable. Because of that, it would be a great idea to play safe and go up half your size. That way, the difference won’t be too big for your shoes to slip off, but it will give your feet enough space.
Next time you try on a pair of running shoes, make sure they’re not too small or too big. There should be enough room between the tip of your big toe and the front of the shoe when you tie up your laces.
2. Let comfort guide you
When choosing the best shoes for beginner overweight runners, it’s important to be guided by comfort. For you to fall in love with running, you have to make the whole experience as comfortable as possible. A nice pair of running shoes plays a huge role in that.
Trying on different pairs before you find the one that feels the best is a good way to go. Because of that, we don’t recommend simply reading the reviews online, ordering a pair, and hoping for the best.
Select a few that sound like a good choice, and take a trip to the mall to try them on. However, although some shoes might be comfortable at first, make sure their midsoles aren’t too soft, as it can cause the shoe to bottom out.
On top of that, a shoe that’s too soft might be unstable for a higher body weight, while super-soft cushioning has lower durability. The best way to approach this is to find a middle ground – a shoe that feels good on your feet but isn’t too soft.
3. Make sure you choose the right type of shoe
Although there are a lot of types of running shoes, there are two main categories when it comes to those designed for running on pavements – neutral and supportive. To choose the best shoes for beginner overweight runners, it’s important to know what’s the best type for your feet.
Neutral running shoes are designed for people with feet that have a natural inward rolling of their feet. They vary in cushioning – some are light and perfect for fast running, while others have thicker midsoles that allow you to walk or run long distances.
Support shoes, on the other hand, are designed for people whose feet roll inward when running. If you’re one of them, you’ll need shoes with a good amount of cushioning and some kind of support. These shoes usually have a firm insert on the inside of the midsole, which makes running a lot more comfortable.
How does weight affect running shoes?
You might think that running shoes have nothing to do with how much you weigh, but that’s not really the case. Our feet are natural shock absorbers, and they achieve that in three ways: pronation, flattening of your arch, and toes splaying out.
When you’re on the heavier side, you hit the ground with extra force, which means your shoes often need extra help. Because of that, typical lightweight shoes might not be enough. Let’s find out why.
If you’re looking for the best shoes for beginner overweight runners, it’s important to keep in mind that lightweight shoes usually come with soft cushioning. For heavier runners, this might be an issue because they’ll bottom out the cushioning pretty fast. As a result, you won’t get nearly enough shock absorption.
So, if you’re one of the heavier runners, make sure you get a pair of running shoes that has a denser midsole. Although it does make shoes a bit heavier, you’ll be grateful when it stops you from injuring yourself.
The best shoes for beginner overweight runners
Wearing the right footwear can make a huge difference in your running experience. Not only does it make it a lot more comfortable and enjoyable, but it can also prevent injuries and elevate excess stress on your joints.
Because of that, it’s important to invest in a pair of high-quality footwear, especially if you’re just starting your weight-loss journey. We guarantee it will help you crush all your fitness goals. Here are our picks when it comes to the best shoes for beginner overweight runners, so you can choose the ones that suit you best.
1. Hoka One One Arahi 5
We’re starting our list with one of the best shoes for beginner overweight runners you can find on the market. Hoka shoes have won the hearts of many runners all over the world, and their Arahi 5 model is perfect for those who have set their minds on losing those extra pounds.
This pair is perfect for heavier runners, as they have a thick base and offer the best kind of cushioning for those who wear them. Because their bottom is thick, a lot of people might think they’re super heavy and difficult to run in, but that’s far from the truth.
It’s rare to find shoes with thick bottoms that still provide exceptional cushioning without adding excess weight, but Hoka One One exceeded our expectations. With their amazing shock absorption, wearing Arahi 5’s will make you feel like you’re running on clouds.
On top of that, their designers made sure the runner is provided with as much stability as possible. Combined with their J-Frame technology, they stop excessive overpronation and keep your feet in place.
These shoes tick all the boxes, and they can be worn by both men and women. They’re supportive, absorb shocks well, correct overpronation, and offer great cushioning. We see no cons with these ones!
2. Brooks Glycerin 20
Designers over at Brooks made sure their Glycerin 20’s are soft but don’t let that keep you away from this amazing pair. Their cushioning provides a perfect balance between comfort and stability. Soft no longer means unstable!
Their new midsole has a medium-soft feeling to it, with a well-cushioned, removable insole, making them perfect for heavy runners. Because its midsole isn’t too mushy, it provides excellent support when running. Their wide heel and forefoot create are sure to make running as comfortable as possible.
Because their outsole is made of rubber, it provides the runner with a lot of traction, while their single-density midsole creates a smooth ride. Their midsole is firm and resilient, and it will make you feel safe and comfortable during your running sessions.
Because they’re not made for fast running, this is a perfect pair for long-distance cruising or daily runs, making them one of the best shoes for beginner overweight runners.
3. Saucony Triumph 18
Would you like to feel like you’re running on cotton and marshmallows? Then you’ll love the Saucony’s Triumph 18 model. They’re sure to make your runs soft and light, without making you feel like you’re dragging your feet.
Thanks to their generous amount of padding, it seems like this model was made for comfort. Their perfect cushioning keeps your heel in place, your midfoot secure, and there’s no tongue sliding.
Another great thing about these shoes is that they need no break-in period. Lots of people are surprised by how comfortable this pair is right out of the box. What makes them perfect for heavy runners is that they’re not built for speed, which is great if you’re just beginning your fitness journey.
They’re ideal for easy or recovery runs, or simply for your daily training sessions. Triumph 18 is soft, yet not mushy, and it’s a perfect combination of responsiveness and bounce.
Because of their super thick tongue and padding, these are one of the most comfortable running shoes you can get! Probably the best thing about them is that they’re super durable, which means you’ll be able to use them for a long time.
4. Asics Kayano Lite 2
Ask around about the best shoes for beginner overweight runners, and a lot of people will tell you about Asics shoes. Although they offer a lot of shoes that are perfect for heavier runners, their Kayano Lite 2 model is probably among the best ones.
They’re lightweight athletic shoes, yet they have a firm midsole that provides maximum cushioning. The cool thing about these shoes is that their soles are made from organically derived materials, which means you’ll be eco-friendly, too!
Just like Hoka shoes, Kayano Lite 2 has an oversized sole, which provides the runner with a lot of stability, and a smooth landing. A lot of overweight runners deal with overpronation, and this heavily cushioned shoe proved to be a great choice for them.
It won’t allow you to put too much pressure on the inner edge which, as a result, provides a pain-free running experience. However, because they’re a bit firm, these shoes are designed for forefoot and mid-runners. If you often land on your heels when you run, you might not enjoy this model as much.
Overall, these shoes are perfect for those who want to improve their gait efficiency. Your running sessions won’t require as much energy and, as a result, your feet won’t be as sore when you’re back home, which is a huge plus in our books.
5. Saucony Cohesion 14
Another Saucony model on our list, and for a good reason. They produce a wide variety of shoes for every runner out there, and their Cohesion models are perfect for those who’d like a good-quality pair while staying within a budget.
We know how expensive running shoes can be, but it’s important not to be put off just because of how much they cost. Saucony shows us it’s possible to wear quality footwear for a good price, even if you’re an overweight runner.
Because Cohesion 14 are entry-level shoes, they’re one of the best shoes for beginner overweight runners. If you’d like to start with long-distance walking first, these shoes are ideal for that, too!
They’re generally a great choice if you’re just starting your journey and still have to find what suits your needs best.
6. Allbirds Tree Flyers
(Source: Allbirds)
If you’re a newby runner who also cares about the environment, Allbirds is a perfect choice for you. They’re a sustainable brand that focuses on low carbon emissions by using recycled and renewable materials.
Their most cushioned model, Tree Flyers, is a high-performance running shoe perfect for heavier runners. Their midsole is both cushioned and springy, and it’s perfect for those who enjoy running faster.
Although they might be a bit basic for advanced runners, they’re a great choice for people who want to start running daily. They’re great as a walking pair, too.
Not only are they super comfortable because of their cushioning, but they also provide good breathability thanks to their knitted upper. On top of that, they look pretty cool, too!
As running shoes, they’re best suited for runs up to 5-6 miles, which is great for beginners. Thanks to its SwiftFoam midsole, they provide a good amount of spring and return, while their stretchy upper hugs your foot well, providing comfort and stability.
Overall, Allbirds are very comfortable shoes that are suitable for daily running. Their midsoles provide plenty of cushioning while still keeping them steady and firm.
You’ll definitely feel supported during your runs, while the wide base of their soles and the exaggerated heel will give you stability, too. They’re also sustainable! Sounds good to us.
7. Asics Gel-Kayano 28
Another pair of shoes from the Kayano line, the Gel-Kayano 28 model is the top tier when it comes to stability. These models have been a staple for many people who’ve been into running throughout their life, and for a good reason. They’re premium, highly cushioned, stable shoes you can’t go wrong with.
These are shoes with a long history and a devoted following, so they’re always a great choice if you’re feeling overwhelmed by multiple options. The Gel-Kayano 28 model has a mesh that locks the foot down to the platform and fits any foot width throughout the shoe.
They come with a full-ground contact outsole, embedded Trusstic technology in the midfoot, and a very soft Flytefoam BLAST that can be found in the forefoot. On top of that, they’re super flexible at the front, with a large, extended heel at the back.
Thanks to its amazing midsole, this is a fun and bouncy shoe that will make running even more enjoyable. Gel-Kayano is a heavy, but soft shoe, with a lot of stability. It will provide you with a lot of balance due to its unbelievably soft ride.
Because of its comfortable and roomy forefoot, they’re a much better choice for heavier runners compared to other ASICS shoes. They’ll provide you with security in both the heel and midfoot and are definitely worth every penny.
8. Adidas Ultraboost 22
There’s hardly a list of running shoes without an Adidas model on it. Their Ultraboost 21 model is a great choice for beginner overweight runners, thanks to its wide midsole and firm outsole.
There are a couple of things interesting about this pair, including its large, plastic heel clip and the raised midsole walls that cup the foot securely. Their Boost foam midsole provides the runner with a lot of comfort and stability, especially compared to their earlier versions, which makes them suitable for heavy runners.
The upper is made of elastic mesh, while the molded midfoot cage creates a great fit with a shallow toe box. Another cool thing about these shoes is that their upper yarn is made of 50% recycled Ocean plastic, while the rest is recycled Polyester.
9. Brooks Adrenaline GTS 21
Brooks Adrenaline GTS 21 is a shoe that withstood the test of time. It’s one of the best-known models when it comes to heavier runners who look for a good, motion-control shoe. And, the best part is – it won’t be too harsh on your wallet, either.
GTS 21 is designed for everyday runs and it’s a perfect choice for those who are carrying some extra weight. Their new DNA Loft plus GuideRails support provides the runner with plenty of comfort, custom-made for your gait.
This model ticks all the boxes when it comes to choosing a good pair of running shoes for heavier runners. On top of that, their designers haven’t focused only on comfort and stability, so they come with lots of colors and styles you can choose from.
They’re definitely one of the best, budget-friendly running shoes you can find. GTS 21s are comfy, reliable, and provide good support. If you plan on starting off your fitness journey with walking, they’re still a perfect choice.
10. Adidas SolarGlide 5
Compared to SolarGlide 4, the 5 model has a lot more stability, thanks to a redesigned midsole. Now, the famous SolarGlides have a wider and stiffer midsole, which makes them a lot more stable and supportive.
They have a wider forefoot and heel, creating enough space for your feet to breathe, but not slip out. On top of that, their Boost foam core is a perfect stabilizing feature, making these shoes an excellent choice for runners who are on the heavier side.
However, since they’re a bit heavier than what you’d expect from running shoes, they’re not a great choice for those who are interested in fast running. SolarGlides 5 are ideal for everyday runs and easy speeds, which makes them a great choice for beginners.
Read more: Best Walking Shoes For Overweight Women: Our Top 11
