The Best Running Shoes for Overweight Men – Features, Benefits, and Buying Tips

Running is a great way for overweight men to get in shape and improve their health. However, with the extra weight, finding the right running shoe is crucial to prevent injury and discomfort. The best running shoes for overweight men provide stability, cushioning, and impact absorption to support their frame during running or walking.

 

Why Do Overweight Runners Need Special Shoes?

 

Overweight runners need running shoes that can withstand the extra pounds and pressure on the shoes. Being overweight puts more strain on the feet, joints, ligaments and muscles during any weight-bearing exercise like running or walking. Here are some key reasons why overweight runners need shoes with special features:

More Cushioning

The excess body weight means heavier footfalls during running or walking. This results in greater impact on the feet and joints. Running shoes with proper cushioning absorb this impact better and reduce stress on the feet and legs.

Motion Control and Stability

The extra weight carried by overweight runners can cause overpronation as the arches flatten more than normal. Their feet are also more likely to roll inwards. Motion control or stability shoes prevent overpronation and provide medial support.

Durability

With the larger body mass and more force exerted with each step, overweight runners need shoes that are sturdier and more durable. The shoes should not lose cushioning or break down quickly.

Proper Fit

It’s important to get running shoes in the right size to prevent blisters or chafing which can be more problematic in overweight runners. Wider toe boxes and removable insoles help get a comfortable fit.

 

What to Look for in Running Shoes for Overweight Runners

 

Cushioning

The midsole of running shoes for overweight runners should have good shock absorption and cushioning. Look for thick midsoles made of EVA, polyurethane or gel which compress on impact and reduce force on the feet and joints.

Good options are:

• Asics Gel Nimbus which has gel cushioning units.
• Brooks Glycerin with DNA LOFT cushioning.
• New Balance Fresh Foam shoes with plush Fresh Foam midsoles.
• HOKA One One shoes which have thick compressed foam midsoles.

Support

Overweight runners need good arch support and stability features to prevent the feet from rolling inwards excessively. Look for these features:

• Dual density midsoles with a firmer density foam at the medial side of the arch. This prevents overpronation.
• Stability posts on the medial side made of thermoplastic polyurethane or TPE for supporting the arch area.
• Wide and stiff heel counters which cup the heel securely.

Some good stability running shoes are:

• Brooks Adrenaline GTS
• Asics GT 2000 series
• New Balance 860v11

Fit

It’s vital to get properly fitting shoes with enough room in the toe box for overweight runners. Narrow toe boxes will squeeze the toes together causing pain.

• Try wide size shoes or go up half a size.
• Removable insoles allow you to insert custom orthotics for better arch support.
• Get your feet measured when fitted for running shoes.

Durability

Look for sturdy upper material like breathable mesh with leather or synthetic overlays which reinforces the shoes.

• Outsoles made of carbon rubber with grooved patterns have better traction and are more long-lasting.
• Shoes like the Brooks Ghost with full contact outsoles stand up well to heavy running.

 

Top 5 Running Shoes for Overweight Runners

 

Here are our top 5 picks for the best running shoes for overweight runners:

1. Brooks Glycerin 20: The Brooks Glycerin is a top-rated running shoe that offers superior cushioning and support. It’s a great choice for overweight runners who want a comfortable and supportive shoe for long runs.
2. Nike Air Zoom Vomero 16: The Nike Air Zoom Vomero is another great option for overweight runners. It’s a lightweight shoe with a lot of cushioning and support. It’s a good choice for runners who want a responsive shoe that can handle both short and long runs.
3. HOKA Clifton 9: The HOKA Clifton is a maximalist shoe that offers incredible cushioning. It’s a good choice for overweight runners who want a shoe that will absorb a lot of impact.
4. Saucony Kinvara 13: The Saucony Kinvara is a lightweight and flexible shoe that’s great for speedwork and tempo runs. It’s a good choice for overweight runners who want a responsive shoe that can help them improve their running performance.
5. ASICS Gel-Kayano 29: The ASICS Gel-Kayano is a stability shoe that provides good support for overpronators. It’s a good choice for overweight runners who are prone to overpronation.

Introduction to Running Shoes for Overweight Men

For overweight men, running can get challenging on the knees, feet and back without proper shoes. The biomechanics of male and female runners differ. So overweight men need running shoes tailored to their specific needs.

Choosing lightweight performance shoes offers less cushioning and support which may not be suitable. The best running shoes for overweight men focus on stability, durability and absorbing impact. Let’s look at the key features overweight men should look for when selecting running shoes.

 

Features to Look for in Running Shoes for Overweight Men

 

Maximum Cushioning

With more weight and impact on each foot strike, cushioning is a top priority. Prioritize thick midsoles over a lightweight feel. Look for advanced cushioning systems like:

• Asics Gel – silicone based units absorb shock.
• New Balance Fresh Foam – provides soft and responsive cushioning.
• Brooks DNA LOFT – offers soft cushioning that is also durable.
• Saucony Everun – cushioning material reduces impact force on feet.
• HOKA One One – compressed foam midsoles absorb impact.

Arch Support

Overpronation or flat feet is common in overweight men. Arch support prevents the feet from rolling inwards excessively and causing knee/foot pain. Seek running shoes with:

• Dual density midsoles – firmer foam along the medial arch side.
• Stability posts on the medial arch side.
• Motion control elements like guidance lines reduce inward foot rolling.

Secure Heel Counter

The heel counter which cups and stabilizes the heel should be wide and firm. This provides rearfoot stability for overweight men.

Durability

With bigger bodies, overweight men need highly durable shoes which resist wear and tear. Seek out:

• Carbon rubber outsoles which are extremely durable.
• Thick durable foam midsoles that retain cushioning.
• Upper material like breathable mesh reinforced with leather/synthetic.

How to Choose the Right Running Shoes for Overweight Runners

Choosing the right pair of running shoes is crucial for overweight runners to stay comfortable and avoid injuries. Follow these tips:

Get Fitted By a Running Expert

Get your feet sized and try running shoes at a specialty running store. Experts there can assess your gait and suggest the right shoes based on your pronation and running style.

Try On Different Shoes

Try on shoes from different brands to get the right fit and feel. Walk and jog in them on different surfaces inside the store before deciding.

Walk and Run In the Shoes Before Buying

Test run the shoes outdoors before making a purchase. Walk and run in them to check if they feel right for a longer duration.

Buy Shoes That Are Comfortable and Supportive

Don’t compromise on either cushioning or support. Try different styles to find one that checks both boxes and fits well. Breaking into a new pair gradually helps.

Replace Shoes Frequently

Running shoes lose cushioning and support with use. For heavier runners, replacing shoes around every 300-500 miles is recommended. This helps prevent injury.

Benefits of Running for Overweight Men

Running offers many benefits making it worth the effort for overweight men.

Weight Loss

Running is an effective calorie burning exercise. It builds metabolism helping overweight men shed excess pounds.

Reduced Risk of Disease

Running helps reduce visceral belly fat which lowers the risk of diabetes, heart disease and stroke in overweight men.

Improved Heart Health

Aerobic exercise like running improves heart and lung capacity. It also lowers bad cholesterol and blood pressure.

Better Mood

Running releases feel good hormones giving an endorphin rush. This boosts mood and relieves stress.

Increased Stamina

Regular running builds stamina and endurance. Overweight men can progress from walking to jogging to running.

Stronger Bones and Muscles

Running improves bone mineral density reducing the risk of osteoporosis. It also builds leg and core muscle strength.

Tips for Running Safely as an Overweight Man

Here are some tips overweight men should follow for safe and injury-free running:

• Start with a walking and jogging program before progressing to running. Build slowly.
• Choose soft surfaces like trails or tracks rather than roads in the beginning to reduce impact.
• Do some dynamic stretches before running to activate muscles and prevent injury.
• Focus on posture and engage core muscles while running to take pressure off the back.
• Hydrate well before and after runs to prevent dehydration and fatigue.
• Listen to your body and take rest days when needed to allow recovery between runs.
• Replace running shoes frequently to maintain cushioning and support.
• Consider supplements like glucosamine and chondroitin for joint health.
• Reward achievements to stay motivated but avoid comparing with others.

Conclusion

The right running shoes provide overweight men the comfort, support and durability they require for running without pain or injury. While all overweight runners need cushioning and support, men benefit from shoes tailored for their specific needs. Proper gait analysis, trying shoes on correctly and replacing them at intervals are key for heavier male runners. With the right footwear, overweight men can gain immense health benefits from running.

FAQs

Which shoes are best for heavy weight persons?

For overweight and heavy runners, cushioned stability shoes from brands like Asics, Brooks, New Balance work well. Go for shoes with thick midsoles, ample cushioning and technologies like Gel, Fresh Foam etc. Stability shoes provide arch support and help with pronation.

What is the weight limit for runners?

There is no specific weight limit for running. But shoes provide around 300-500 miles of use for heavier runners over 200 lbs compared to 500-800 miles for lighter runners. The key is choosing shoes with maximum cushioning and support and replacing them more often.

Do heavier runners need more cushioning?

Yes, extra cushioning in shoes is crucial for heavier runners due to the higher impact on their feet and joints. Thick midsoles and advanced cushioning systems like Fresh Foam, Gel, Everun etc help absorb shock better.

Should overweight runners wear stability shoes?

Stability shoes are recommended for overweight runners who tend to overpronate or have flat feet. The medial support and motion control elements in stability shoes prevent excessive inward foot rolling and pain in the feet, knees or back due to improper gait.

What are the best running shoes for overweight men?

Some top picks are Asics Gel Nimbus, Brooks Glycerin or Adrenaline GTS, New Balance 860v11 or Fresh Foam shoes, Saucony Omni and Guide ISO, Mizuno Wave Inspire, Nike Zoom Structures, and HOKA One One Gaviota or Bondi models.

What features should overweight men look for in running shoes?

Key features are thick midsoles, excellent cushioning systems, stability elements, ample toe room, durable outsoles, breathable mesh uppers with overlays, removable insoles and secure heel counters.

How can overweight men choose the right running shoes?

Visit specialty running stores for gait analysis and fitting by experts. Try shoes from different brands to get the right combination of cushioning, support and fit. Walk and run in shoes before buying. Replace shoes regularly every 300-500 miles.

What are the benefits of running for overweight men?

Running helps overweight men lose weight, build stamina, strengthen muscles and bones, reduce disease risk, improve mood and heart health. It burns calories and belly fat while building metabolism.

What are some tips for running safely as an overweight man?

Start slowly, use soft surfaces initially, do dynamic stretches, focus on posture, stay hydrated, listen to your body, replace shoes often, consider joint supplements, reward achievements, and don’t compare yourself to others.