Finding the right pair of shoes that fit well can be a bit challenging for overweight individuals compared to others. As you may know, excess weight can put more strain on the feet, leading to various foot problems such as supination, overpronation, plantar fasciitis, and even knee and back issues. Therefore, it is crucial to invest in the best shoes designed for overweight people. Fortunately, several shoe companies recognize this need and create shoes that cater to the specific foot problems faced by plus-size men and women. This means there are plenty of options available that can meet your requirements in terms of weight, size, additional support features, and more.
What Are the Best Shoes for Overweight People?
Heavier individuals often subject their feet, ankles, and joints to higher pressure, which can result in fatigue, soreness, and potentially more severe foot problems. Wearing the right shoes can improve your walking posture and address related foot issues. Here is a comprehensive review of the top ten shoes available on the market for overweight people, which can help you find your ideal pair.
1. Skechers Women’s Go Walk Joy 5Gen Cushioning Walking Shoes:
Perfect for Individuals with Morbid Obesity
Key Features: Mesh upper, Fabric lining, Synthetic sole, Goga Max insole, 5Gen cushioning, Padded collar, Slip-on design, back pull-on tab.
Product Specifications: The Skechers Women’s Go Walk Joy 5Gen Cushioning Walking Shoes boast a top-notch mesh upper that offers exceptional comfort for all-day wear. The supple fabric lining adds an extra layer of smoothness and comfort when you slip your feet into these shoes. The padded collar ensures that your feet have minimal contact with the shoe. What sets these shoes apart as the ideal choice for individuals with morbid obesity is their superior cushioning. The state-of-the-art 5Gen cushioning midsole provides ample cushioning while maintaining excellent responsiveness.
Pros:
- Incredibly lightweight and comfortable for extended use.
- Flexible yet sturdy enough to support your movements.
- Easy to slip on and off with the convenient slip-on style.
Cons:
- The sizing may run slightly larger than the standard size in reality.
2. Skechers Men’s Equalizer Persistent FlexSole Slip-On Sneakers:
Ideal for Men with Excess Weight
Key Features: Textile upper, Synthetic sole, Double stretchy panels, Slip-on design, FlexSole insole, Memory foam insole.
Product Specifications: The Skechers Men’s Equalizer Persistent FlexSole Slip-On Sneakers, highly recommended for men with a larger build, offer exceptional comfort and quality. Crafted with premium materials, these shoes provide a comfortable experience while on your feet. The memory foam insole offers enhanced comfort and support.
Pros:
- Comfortable and lightweight construction.
- Easy slip-on design, perfect for all-day standing or walking.
- Excellent traction to prevent slipping.
Cons:
- For individuals with narrow feet, it may be advisable to choose a half-size smaller.
3. Saucony Women’s Cohesion:
Top Choice for Overweight Women
Key Features: 100% mesh upper, Rubber sole, Padded closure, Lace-up closure, Injected EVA foam insole.
Product Specifications: The Saucony Women’s Cohesion 10 Comfortable Running Shoes, despite their sporty appearance, are an excellent option for overweight women seeking versatile sneakers for various occasions. These shoes feature a spacious toe box to accommodate wider feet comfortably.
Pros:
- Excellent side and arch support.
- Provides exceptional stability in all situations.
- Cushioned lining helps prevent chafing or blisters.
Cons:
- Sizes may run half a size smaller for individuals with regular-width feet.
4. ASICS Women’s Gel-Venture 7 Ortholite Running Shoes:
Perfect for Female Runners with Obesity
Key Features: Synthetic and mesh upper, Innovative GEL technology, AHAR Rubber sole, Premium Ortholite X-40 Sockliner, Padded collar.
Product Specifications: The ASICS Women’s Gel-Venture 7 Ortholite Running Shoes are highly recommended as the best option for female runners with obesity. These shoes feature a synthetic and mesh upper, providing a combination of durability and breathability. The innovative GEL technology ensures excellent cushioning and shock absorption, reducing the impact on joints. The AHAR Rubber sole offers great traction and durability. The premium Ortholite X-40 Sockliner provides additional comfort, and the padded collar ensures a secure fit.
Pros:
- Sturdy outsole for enhanced slip resistance.
- Exceptional durability with excellent overlays.
- Breathable mesh lining for maximum ventilation.
- Provides excellent stability with the internal heel counter.
Cons:
- The actual color may vary slightly from the image.
Ideal for Heavy Men
5. Under Armour Men’s Charged Assert 8 EVA Shock Lining Running Shoes:
Key Features: Mesh upper, Leather overlay, Synthetic sole, Rubber outsole.
Product Specifications: The Under Armour Men’s Charged Assert 8 EVA Shock Lining Running Shoes offer optimal comfort and assurance for heavy men. The leather overlays provide added stability and secure the midfoot. The rubber outsole is sturdy and supportive, minimizing strain on the feet under heavy weight. The synthetic sole reduces overall shoe weight, making it feel lighter during runs.
Pros:
- Provides a comfortable and plush sensation.
- Ensures excellent durability with a solid design and rugged outsoles to reduce the chance of slipping.
- Offers a responsive midsole and optimal cushioning.
Cons:
- The width may be too wide for some individuals.
6. New Balance Women’s WW411v2:
The Perfect Walking Shoe for Overweight Individuals. Stylish, Supportive, and Comfortable.
Key Features: Leather and mesh upper, Rubber sole and outsole, Cushioned insole.
Product Specifications: The New Balance Women’s WW411v2 is widely regarded as the best walking shoe for overweight people. It offers a winning combination of style, support, and comfort. The leather and mesh upper provides durability and breathability. The rubber sole and outsole are designed to provide excellent traction and cover more ground. The cushioned insole ensures a comfortable walking experience.
Pros:
- Breathable material keeps your feet cool all day.
- Outstanding stability and all-day comfort with the use of high-quality overlays.
- Cushioned insoles provide a pleasant and cushioned feel.
- Excellent traction to prevent slipping.
Cons:
- These shoes may run about half a size smaller than advertised.
7. Saucony Women’s Grid Excursion TR12 VERSAFOAM Cushioning Sneaker:
The Best Shoe for Overweight Nurses.
Key Features: Knit mesh upper, Synthetic overlay, Rubber sole, Padded collar, Back pull-on tab.
Product Specifications: The Saucony Women’s Grid Excursion TR12 VERSAFOAM Cushioning Sneaker is the ideal shoe for overweight nurses. The knit mesh upper offers a better fit and keeps your feet dry throughout the day. The tough overlays are designed to provide stability by securing your feet in place. The trail-tested tough outsole, composed of premium rubber and featuring triangle lug designs, ensures excellent grip on various surfaces, reducing the risk of slipping.
Pros:
- Excellent traction for a solid footing and spacious front toe area.
- Provides exceptional stability while allowing natural foot motion and utilizing long-lasting materials.
- Responsive and comfortable insoles.
- Ensures firm foot placement.
Cons:
- It may run half a size smaller than the indicated size.
8. Skechers Men’s Expected Gomel Knit Mesh Slip-On Loafer:
The Best Choice for Casual Attire
Key Features: 100% knit mesh upper, Rubber sole, Slightly padded collar.
Product Specifications: The Skechers Men’s Expected Gomel Knit Mesh Slip-On Loafer is highly recommended for casual wear. Its slip-on design makes it incredibly convenient to put on and take off. Among the many options available for overweight individuals, this shoe stands out as the perfect choice for everyday use, ensuring comfort and style.
Pros:
- Easy to slip on and off.
- Highly breathable, keeping you comfortable throughout the day.
- Excellent responsiveness for every step.
- Provides sufficient support in the arch and heel areas.
Cons:
- The outsole pattern may easily collect small debris.
9. Skechers Men’s Energy Afterburn Lace-Up Workout Sneakers:
The Ideal Choice for Exercise for Larger Men
Key Features: 100% premium leather upper, Rubber sole and outsole, Soft lining, Padded heel and collar, Cushioned midsole.
Product Specifications: The Skechers Men’s Energy Afterburn Lace-Up Workout Sneakers are perfect for various activities such as walking, jogging, or going to the gym. The upper is made of high-quality, cool leather with secure overlays, providing durability and support. This model excels in comfort, featuring a padded heel and midsole.
Pros:
- Offers excellent traction on various terrains.
- Ideal for individuals with larger, wider feet.
- Provides all-day comfort for different tasks.
- Built with excellent materials for remarkable durability.
Cons:
- It may not be the lightest option available.
10. The TIOSEBON Women’s Athletic Casual Mesh-Comfortable Walking Shoes:
The Best Slip-On Option
Key Features: Mesh fabric upper, Highly springy MD outsole, Slip-on design, Pigskin insole, Elastic shoe mouth.
Product Specifications: The TIOSEBON Women’s Athletic Casual Mesh-Comfortable Walking Shoes are highly recommended for overweight individuals. These shoes provide a lightweight, breathable, and comfortable experience once you slip them on. With their easy slip-on design, they are the perfect choice for heavier individuals who value convenience.
Pros:
- Lightweight and comfortable to wear.
- Breathable, keeping your feet cool.
- Provides sufficient arch support with the pigskin insole.
- Easy to slip on and off quickly, offering excellent shock absorption.
Cons:
- If you have wide feet, it may be necessary to order one size larger.
How to Choose the Best Shoes for Overweight People: A Buyer’s Guide
If you are overweight and looking to engage in walking or other physical activities, it is important to choose the right shoes. The models discussed above are excellent options for overweight individuals, but there are other factors to consider. In this buyer’s guide, we will cover some crucial components to look out for:
- Padding: Cushioning is a key feature to consider in the best shoes for overweight people. Adequate cushioning provides comfort and support.
- Stability: When carrying extra weight, stability becomes crucial. Look for shoes that offer stability to help with balance and pronation.
- Size: Ensuring the proper shoe size is important for a secure and comfortable fit. Avoid shoes that are too big or too small.
- Traction: Good traction is essential for walking confidently and securely. Look for shoes with a strong grip to prevent slips.
- Sole: A springy and responsive sole is ideal for overweight individuals. Consider the solidity and flexibility of the shoe’s sole.
- Breathability: Opt for shoes that offer breathability to prevent excessive sweating and discomfort during physical activities.
By considering these factors, you can find the best shoes that cater to the needs of overweight individuals, providing comfort, support, and functionality.
