Best Walking Shoes For Overweight Men in 2023
Walking is a great way to exercise if you want to lose weight.
Don’t assume that because it’s less intense than running, it won’t help. You can burn up to 300 calories per hour walking at a moderate pace, so it’s definitely something you should consider!
What’s nice about walking is you don’t need to invest in a lot of equipment or lessons. That being said, you still need to choose your shoes carefully to protect your feet. And if you’re looking for the best walking shoes for overweight men to support your exercise, there are certain boxes to tick.
Overweight walkers need shoes that are well-cushioned and absorb shock. The shoes should support your feet on every step, and be made with quality materials that last.
Our top pick is the Brooks Dyad 11. It has great cushioning, a support design, and an accommodating fit that adds to the shoe’s comfort.
But it’s not the only great shoe on the list. Read on to find the one that’s right for you!
Top 3 Best and Favorites
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Best Overall
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Best Overall
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Brooks Dyad 11
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Top Value
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Top Value
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SKECHERS Max Cushioning Premier 2.0
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Most Supportive
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Most Supportive
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New Balance 928v3
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Best Overall
1. Brooks Dyad 11
Brooks makes great, no-fuss running and walking shoes that do the job well. The Dyad 11 is an excellent choice for heavier guys who need a shoe that ticks all the right boxes to walk comfortably.
What We Like
The Brooks Dyad 11 is a good-looking shoe with an array of features that make it a good choice for heavier guys.In the midsole, you’ll find BioMoGo DNA foam, which adapts to how your weight is distributed across the shoe to provide cushioning and shock absorption in all the right places, protecting heavier walkers’ joints.
It’s not the most responsive midsole, but that shouldn’t be an issue if you’re sticking to walking and not running. With a 10 mm drop, it’s a good choice for heel strikers who need more shock absorption in the rearfoot.
The Dyad 11 has excellent stability features. Under the arch, you’ll find Arch Pods, one on each side. They support the arch and prevent your foot from rolling during your stride, which can be an issue when you’re carrying extra weight.
If you need more or different support, you can remove the existing insole and add a custom insert.
Another feature that increases this shoe’s stable feeling is a robust heel counter that’s bigger than most. Expect little to no heel slip and a great lockdown when laced properly.
The upper is seamless and soft, providing a chafe-free experience. It’s also fairly breathable, so you can walk on hot days without itfeeling like your feet are burning.
On the outersole, the shoe features high-abrasion rubber that grips well to different surfaces. The sole is well-covered with thick rubber, so you can expect it to last hundreds of miles before needing to be replaced.
The outsole is quite rigid, but when walking, that shouldn’t impact your stride; instead, it will provide extra stability. It makes feature flex grooves, but they add only a slight bit of flexibility to the sole, which means heavier walkers should be well-supported by shoes that don’t twist or “give” underfoot.
Why We Like It
The Brooks Dyad 11 is a great all-around walking shoe that’s comfortable, stable, supportive, and looks good at the same time. It’s got everything a heavier man would need to start walking regularly.
What to Consider
One of the things that some users don’t enjoy about the shoe is that the midsole foam can begin to feel quite stiff after long distances. However, most reports are from runners, so it might be less noticeable if you’re walking.
What’s New
There’s not a lot of change between the Dyad 10 and 11, but the changes that have been made are to the upper. The newer version boasts a seamless upper that significantly reduces chafing problems experienced with the 10.
PROS:
- Breathable mesh upper with a wide, roomy toe box lets your toes splay naturally while your feet remain cool and dry
- BioMoGo DNA midsole adapts to your footsteps and offers responsive cushioning that absorbs shock
- Dual arch pods offer extra arch support, while wide platform of the shoe excellent provides stability for heavier walkers
- Removable insoles allow for more room so that you can use custom orthotics if you need more support
CONS:
- The cushioning may begin to feel a little stiff after long distances
Top Value
2. SKECHERS Max Cushioning Premier 2.0
The SKECHERS Max Cushioning Premier 2.0 is an excellent entry-level shoe. It’s affordable enough to justify buying it if you’re new to exercising but packs a punch with its features at this price point.
What We Like
The Premier 2.0 starts with a slab of ULTRA GO cushioning in the midsole. It’s soft and comfortable without being too compressible. It gives the shoes a lightweight feeling so they won’t weigh you down on the walk. But they still provide great shock absorption for heavier strides.
For extra comfort, there’s an Air-Cooled Goga Mat insole. This adds a touch more cushion to every step and also makes the shoe breathable even underneath your feet.
We also love that the lining of the footbed is infused with copper, which gives it antimicrobial properties. Say goodbye to smelly feet!
As for the outsole, it has a natural rocker shape that makes walking more effortless and takes stress off the muscles and tissues of the feet, as well as the joints. This is invaluable for heavy guys who are heavy-footed, as it makes each step lighter and easier.
A Goodyear Performance outsole offers excellent traction on most surfaces and lasts surprisingly long, considering the price point of this shoe. Even with heavy use and extra weight on the shoe, you can expect them to last ages.
The shoe looks sleek and polished, with a tight textile upper overlaid by sections of synthetic material for greater sturdiness.
Why We Like It
The SKECHERS Max Cushioning Premier 2.0 shoe is a surprisingly affordable walking shoe. It’s not top-of-the-range, but it offers everything a heavy man needs to walk comfortably, safely, and for many miles.
What to Consider
These shoes don’t have a removable insole, so you won’t be able to add a custom orthotic if you need more support. Also, the tongue is thin, which reduces the weight but may be uncomfortable.
PROS:
- ULTRA GO cushioning offers a soft and comfortable ride without feeling heavy or bulky
- Copper-infused footbed lining has antimicrobial properties that help promote good foot health
- Natural Rocker Technology provides smooth heel-to-toe transitions and reduces stress and impact on joints
- Goodyear Performance synthetic outsole provides great coverage and lasts longer than expected, considering the shoe’s affordability
CONS:
- The thin tongue may cause discomfort or lace bite for some wearers
- The insole isn’t removable
Most Supportive
3. New Balance 928v3 Leather
The New Balance 928v3 is a great choice if you need a support shoe. We like the leather upper as it makes the shoe more supportive and looks good too!
What We Like
The leather upper of this shoe gives it a great look, but it also makes it more durable than others, which is a pro when you are harder on shoes. The stiffness of the leather also adds to the shoe’s stability, adding a touch more support.
Men who prefer extra space in the toe box will be pleased with the size of the toe box. This has been updated from the last version, so if you tried it and felt like your toes were cramped, you’ll be happy with the updates on this shoe.
In the midsole, you’ll find NB’s ABZORB cushioning. It’s a sturdy CMEVA foam, which provides excellent shock absorption and resists compression, so heavier guys can walk comfortably and with happier joints for many miles.
The stability features include a Rollbar posting system, which is a molded TPU plate in the midsole that connects to lateral and medial posts, stopping the shoe—and your foot—from twisting or rolling, which is more common with heavier walkers.
On the outsole is a visible strip of rubber, slightly off-center. This is known as the Walking Strike Path technology, and it helps to guide the foot through a natural heel-to-toe progression. A slight rocker shape to the sole also helps make every step easier and more comfortable.
Ndurance rubber underneath the foot protects against the surface you’re walking on, allowing you many miles of hard use before it starts to wear away. It also offers excellent grip on a number of surfaces, so those with a bit of extra weight and less flexibility can walk safely and confidently.
Why We Like It
The New Balance 928v3 is a great stability shoe that provides enough structure for overpronators to walk safely and comfortably. It’s a bonus that they’re made of leather and extra durable!
What to Consider
Some people have mentioned that the tongue of the shoe is unusually short and narrow, which might feel strange at first. It might not be a big deal if you aren’t running, but it’s worth being aware of.
What’s New
There are few changes to this shoe’s third version. The biggest difference is that the toe box now has more depth, which makes for a more comfortable fit. This was a big issue in the previous version.
PROS:
- Durable full-grain leather upper with a generous toe box can accommodate wider feet
- ABZORB foam cushioning provides a soft and comfortable feel underfoot while also resisting compression under heavy steps
- Rollbar posting system supports the foot by reducing rearfoot movement and overpronation
- Walking Strike Path technology gently guides your foot through your gait cycle
- Durable rubber outsole offers excellent traction on a variety of surfaces
CONS:
- Some wearers have complained that the tongue is short, narrow, and can be annoying
Most Cushioned
4. Hoka Bondi 8
Walkers who love a cushioned shoe will appreciate the Hoka Bondi 8. It’s a max cushioned shoe that’s a fantastic choice for those who want extra joint protection.
What We Like
The Bondi is one of Hoka’s bestselling shoes, thanks to its thick cushioning. The chunky layer of EVA foam in the midsole absorbs shock and provides soft comfort, making walking much more comfortable for heavier guys.
It’s a great choice for long-distance walks. In addition to the cushioning, it features a rocker design that helps to propel you forward with less effort. This helps to take the heaviness out of your steps, taking stress off your muscles and joints.
The shoe is surprisingly stable, despite being a neutral shoe. Its wide platform adds inherent security to each step, especially for guys who are a little heavier. The rocker paired with flex grooves, guides the foot through its natural stride, reducing the chance of an altered gait due to extra weight.
High-side walls and a firm heel counter keep the foot firmly in place, working together with a breathable upper that molds nicely to the foot.
Between the thick layer of padding and the decent amount of rubber on the outsole, you can expect this shoe to last a few hundred miles.
Why We Like It
We love how cushioned this shoe is. Plus, the rocker sole makes walking easy and comfortable for heavy men for both long and short distances.
What to Consider
These shoes are quite chunky and may take some getting used to. Those who aren’t used to max-cushioned shoes may feel a little unstable on their feet, and they may also take some time to break in.
What’s New
While the Hoka Bondi 8 is still as cushioned as ever, the midsole foam has been tweaked to be softer and yet more responsive than the previous model. It also has more rubber covering the outsole, which makes it more durable, and now features more sustainable material in the shoe’s upper.
PROS:
- Versatile daily trainer that offers an excellent balance between stability and comfort for heavy men
- Breathable engineered mesh upper holds your foot securely and comfortably in place
- Generous layer of cushioning provides a plush and comfortable running experience even with extra weight
- Meta-rocker platform encourages a natural foot roll, while providing a smooth and efficient ride
CONS:
- These shoes may take some time to break in, and some might feel unstable with the high stack height
Best for Wide Feet
5. Saucony Echelon 9
Men with wide feet may struggle to find shoes that fit comfortably, especially shoes that support extra weight simultaneously. But the Saucony Echelon 9 is an excellent option in terms of fit and performance.
What We Like
Wide-footed heavy men will appreciate the Saucony Echelon 9. Not only does it have a naturally wide fit, but it also comes in a few different widths, so there’s something to suit almost every foot.
As well as the wider toe box, there’s also a decent bit of volume in the forefoot, so there’s space for your toes to move comfortably. Despite its wider nature, the shoe is quite stable, thanks to various features.
The shoe is naturally geared towards a neutral foot but works best for lower arches, which can easily cause overpronation in heavy men when not supported properly.
However, the insole is removable, so you can always add a custom orthotic if the existing one isn’t quite right for your foot, which is a great feature.
A thick slab of PWRRUN cushioning feels soft enough underfoot for many comfortable miles, but remains firm enough not to feel sloppy. Combined with a rocker effect, the wide base makes walking easy and comfortable when you’re carrying a bit of extra weight, for both long and short distances.
It’s a decently stable neutral shoe, thanks to a firm heel counter, the wide platform, and the rocker bottom, all of which help make a walk more stable for heavy men.
There’s a good bit of rubber on the bottom of the shoe, which helps you stay steady on most surfaces. However, it’s smoother than many others, so take caution on smooth surfaces.
Why We Like It
This shoe is not only wide enough for almost all feet to fit comfortably and securely, but it’s also very stable. We like that it features a removable insole, so walkers can customize their support if necessary.
What to Consider
The outsole on this shoe isn’t the most robust we’ve ever seen. It may be a little slippery on some surfaces, so you may need to be extra careful on smooth or wet surfaces.
What’s New
The upper has been redesigned completely to look sleeker and more professional. Some of the changes include a reduced toe bumper, a new gusseted tongue, and the inclusion of a heel and tongue tab for easier removal.
The outsole has also seen some changes. It now features a large flex groove down the middle of the rearfoot and an increased heel bevel and toe spring. The shoe has also lost an impressive two ounces, although it’s still not light.
PROS:
- Soft, breathable mesh upper is wider and has a higher volume that provides plenty of room for a variety of feet
- Plush sockliner can be removed to accommodate custom orthotics or insoles
- Thick layer of PWRRUN cushioning is soft without being mushy and is a great option for easy or longer walks
- Firm heel counter that holds your foot securely throughout your stride
CONS:
- The grip may be a little slippery on certain surfaces
Top Lightweight Shoe
6. Mizuno Wave Inspire 19
It’s important to note that while the Mizuno Wave Inspire 19 isn’t the lightest walking shoe on the market, it feels surprisingly lightweight for its features. When wearing this shoe, you’ll feel light on your feet and won’t feel weighed down.
What We Like
The Wave Inspire 19 features Mizuno’s ENERZY foam, which has been revamped to be significantly lighter than before while providing a somewhat softer but bouncier ride than the previous version.
In this version of the shoe, the foam is wrapped around the Wave Plate in the midsole, offering a comfortable bit of softness in the forefoot while retaining some firmness and excellent shock absorption in the heel.
This is great for heavy guys, as it offers the perfect combination of shock-absorbing stability in the heel, where most overweight guys will strike first, and softness in the forefoot, where you push off.
One of the complaints about the previous version of this shoe was that the Wave Plate felt intrusive. This one has been redesigned and fits much more seamlessly into the midsole, extending more into the medial side of the shoe, where it’s thicker and provides support against overpronation, a common occurrence in overweight walkers.
It also has slight side walls, which makes your foot fit comfortably and increases stability. The inclusion of a Wave Plate rather than a medial post also reduces the weight of this shoe.
The upper is soft and seamless, reducing the chance of chafing and providing a good lockdown. You’ll also find a stiff heel counter, which adds to the stability of this shoe and keeps your extra weight from leading to rolling feet.
Note that this shoe features a classic 12 mm heel-to-toe drop on the higher side of the spectrum. It’s a great choice for heavier men struggling with Achilles tendon issues or sore calf muscles.
There’s also a grippy, durable rubber outsole that handles roads easily and can even easily take to gravel or light trails, making heavy men more confident.
Why We Like It
We appreciate that the Mizuno Wave Inspire 19 feels surprisingly light even though it’s basically the same weight as the previous version. It’s the ideal combination of comfortable, responsive, and supportive.
What to Consider
Although this shoe has a spacious forefoot, the heel may feel uncomfortably snug to some wearers. However, this depends on the person wearing the shoe, but if you have a wider heel, you may prefer a different shoe.
What’s New
The new version of this shoe has only a few minor changes. A redesigned Wave Plate increases the comfort of the shoe, and makes for smoother transitions. There’s also more ENERZY foam around the Wave Plate, which makes it feel softer and more comfortable.
PROS:
- Soft, seamless upper is breathable with a light stretch that hugs your foot
- ENERZY midsole foam is wrapped around the Wave Plate and provides a good amount of responsiveness and stability
- High heel-to-toe drop of 12 mm helps reduce strain on the calf muscles and Achilles tendon
- Durable and grippy rubber outsole provides excellent traction on pavement, gravel, and light trails
CONS:
- Some wearers may find the heel to be somewhat snug
Best for Long Distance Walking
7. New Balance Fresh Foam X More v4
Heavier men who want to take long walks and have their feet stay protected and comfortable will appreciate the New Balance Fresh Foam X More v4.
What We Like
The Fresh Foam X More v4’s midsole is what makes it great for long-distance walks, especially for heavy walkers. It’s got a serious chunk of foam underfoot, with a shock-absorbing 38 mm in the heel and 34 mm in the forefoot, making every step more comfortable as well as safer for those with extra pounds on them.
It’s an amazing combination of comfortably soft and happily bouncy. An unusual bucket seat design settles your foot into the midsole nicely, and it works well with the soft, breathable upper to create a strong lockdown on the foot.
Aside from the lovely cushioning in this shoe, another thing that makes it excellent for heavyset men on long-distance walks is the rocker sole. This helps to make for an easy heel-to-toe transition, reducing foot and lower leg fatigue, especially during longer sessions when you’re carrying more weight.
Under the sole, there’s a good amount of rubber providing great traction on almost all surfaces. Heavy guys can feel confident walking anywhere and even upping the pace a little in these shoes!
Why We Like It
The New Balance Fresh Foam X More v4 is an all-around great shoe. With versatile cushioning, excellent shock absorption, and great stability, it’s a good choice for keeping your feet safe and comfy on long walks, especially when you’re carrying more weight than you’d like.
What to Consider
This shoe has a 4 mm heel-to-toe drop, which is low for a New Balance shoe. Some users might take some time to adjust to this, and that adjustment could come with Achilles and calf pain.
What’s New
The latest version of this shoe has a slightly wider base, a softer midsole, and revamped upper that improves the lockdown.
PROS:
- Fresh Foam X midsole is a great combination of soft comfort and bouncier energy return for easier long-distance walks
- 34 mm of foam in the forefoot and 38 mm in the rearfoot offers excellent shock absorption on several different surfaces
- “Bucket seat” design adds extra stability and facilitates a good lockdown, keeping your feet secure for many miles
- Rocker outsole design helps to smooth the heel-to-toe transition so your feet take longer to fatigue on long walks
CONS:
- Some walkers might struggle to adjust to the 4 mm heel-to-toe drop
Most Comfortable
8. ASICS Gel-Nimbus 25 Platinum
Comfort is very important when it comes to a walking shoe. The ASICS Gel-Nimbus 25 Platinum is a super comfortable shoe that’ll make you want to add more miles to your daily total.
What We Like
The cushioning is what makes these shoes the most comfortable ones on this list. You’ll find a combination of FlyteFoam Blast PLUS ECO foam and PureGEL technology, providing excellent cushioning from forefoot to heel and protecting your feet effectively from shock.
Since the foam has been redesigned, it’s much lighter than the previous version, which adds to the comfort of the shoes. When paired with the rocker sole design, it reduces a lot of fatigue on the feet, which is helpful for those whose feet are already taking on extra strain from a higher body weight.
Aside from the pillowy comfort underfoot, the shoe offers step-in comfort thanks to a satiny Ortholite sockliner, which is also eco-friendly.
The engineered mesh upper is soft on the feet and slightly stretchy, so it’s not just easy on the skin but also molds to almost any shape of foot. The ability to get a great lockdown makes them extra comfortable to walk in for both short and long distances.
Why We Like It
We love the cushioning of this shoe. It’s the perfect mix of soft, comfortable, and shock-absorbent. Every step feels great with these shoes on your feet! They’re also very durable, which is a bonus, as extra weight on them won’t wear them down too quickly.
What to Consider
Several users have reported that these shoes run a little small in the toe box. You may want to go a half-size up if you’re planning on walking in these shoes, unless you like a very snug fit and wearing thin socks.
What’s New
The midsole has been updated from a soft FF Blast+ foam to a firmer combination. Another great update is the outsole durability, which means you can add more miles for less wear. Probably the most noticeable change is that the gel cushion is no longer visible on this version of the shoe.
PROS:
- Combination of FF Blast PLUS ECO foam and PureGEL technology makes every step comfortable and cushioned
- Soft, stretchy engineered mesh upper offered an adaptive fit that can mold to almost any shape foot supportively
- Ortholite sockliner provides step-in comfort and is produced using an eco-friendly manufacturing process
- Mild outsole rocker reduces strain on the foot muscles and helps you to walk further and for longer without fatigue
CONS:
- These shoes may run half a size small so you should size up
Best Nike
9. Nike Motiva
Nike fans, the Motiva is an excellent walking shoe if you’re a little heavier than you’d like to be. It has a bit of a funky dad-shoe design, but trust us, you’ll appreciate how they feel once you’ve walked in these.
What We Like
This is one of Nike’s innovative shoe designs! It’s great for walkers who love something different and unique, but it’s also backed up with great comfort. A must for weighty guys who want to walk in both style and comfort.
The thick outsole is plain to see, and it does a good job of absorbing shock as you walk, which helps to keep heavy guys’ joints as safe as possible.
It’s combined with an aggressive rocker design that helps you to walk with less effort and more spring in your step, effectively pushing you forward faster without expending more energy. While this means a touch less calorie burn, it does make a difference to the effectiveness of your walk when you’re carrying a few extra pounds.
A tight-knit upper with a gusseted tongue fits comfortably around the foot. Underfoot, textured rubber provides great traction to keep you safe on any surface.
The outsole is uniquely designed to provide a high level of shock absorption, making every walk comfortable and easy. Even if you’ve got a heavy footfall, these shoes should last a decently long time.
Why We Like It
We’re fans of this unusual-looking shoe, not just for its cool design. The thick midsole provides excellent shock absorption and a high level of comfort. The aggressive rocker sole makes walking fun, even for heavier guys!
What to Consider
Some users have reported that the upper of this shoe is quite thick. If you live in a hot place, you might easily overheat when wearing these.
PROS:
- Gusseted tongue and tight knit upper provide a good fit and the flat laces help you to get a comfortable and effective lockdown
- Exaggerated rocker design on the outsole propel you through your stride with less foot strain
- Comfortgroove outsole is uniquely designed to provide more shock absorption on every step
- Textured rubber on the outsole help you to keep a stable footing on a number of different surfaces so you can walk anywhere with confidence
CONS:
- The upper is not very breathable, so walkers who live in warm climates might find that their feet start to sweat
Top Wide Toe Box
10. Altra Torin 7
Overweight walkers who need a spacious toe box will appreciate the Altra Torin 7’s shape and freedom. They’re designed for those who need more space for their toes, so you’re guaranteed to be comfortable.
What We Like
Altra shoes are amazing for those who need a wide toe box. Their FootShape toe box is unique in the shoe world, and it’s the most comfortable thing for people who like space around their forefoot.
The midfoot and heel are fairly snug, which is a bonus because it ensures a good lockdown despite the wide toe box.
If you do happen to need more space, you can remove the insole to add volume. Alternatively, you can replace the insole with one that offers more support if you need it.
This shoe has a zero-drop platform, meaning there’s less pressure on the ball of your foot. However, it might take some getting used to for those who haven’t worn a zero-drop shoe before.
Zero-drop doesn’t mean minimalist, so overweight walkers can still enjoy shock-absorbing, comfortable cushioning underfoot. It can also help encourage a more natural foot position as you walk, effectively reducing the chances of rolling your feet, which is more common amongst heavier walkers.
Why We Like It
We like these shoes for those who need extra toe space. Despite the space in the toe box, you still get a great lockdown, and the removable insole allows you to customize your support.
What to Consider
It’s worth knowing that people who aren’t used to a zero-drop shoe may struggle to adjust to this one.
What’s New
The shoe has some nice updates. There’s more Altra EGO MAX foam in the midsole for a softer but bouncier feel. And the thin tongue issues from the Torin 6 are gone, replaced by a plusher tongue. The upper was redesigned to be more breathable, and the heel collar was changed to provide more support.
PROS:
- Classic FootShape toe box allows for plenty of room in the forefoot so your toes are never cramped
- Zero-drop platform reduces pressure on the ball of the foot, making this an excellent choice for those with forefoot problems
- Removable insole allows you to add extra volume to the toe box if you need it
- Snug fit in the midfoot and heel means you still get a great lockdown with no heel slip
CONS:
- Zero-drop will take some adjustment if you haven’t worn this type of shoe before
Buyer’s Guide – Walking Shoes for Overweight Men
Here’s what to look for if you’re shopping for the best walking shoes for overweight men. Tick these boxes; your shoes should keep you comfortable, supported, and protected.
Cushioning
The cushioning is important as it will absorb shock on every step. There should be enough padding for you to feel comfortable and enough to absorb shock so your joints are protected.
How many mm of cushioning is up to you. Some people prefer max cushioned shoes, and others prefer less, but we recommend going as thick as is comfortable.
Support & Stability
Make sure the shoe you choose is right for your arch. Those with a neutral gait will need a neutral shoe, while overpronators should use a stability or motion control shoe.
Being properly supported will take the strain off your feet as you walk, reducing your chances of injury.
You’re also more at risk of your feet rolling inwards when carrying excess weight, so ensuring you’ve got proper arch support will reduce the chances of that happening.
It’s also a good idea to choose a shoe with a removable insole so you can add a custom insert if necessary.
Durability
When you buy a pair of shoes, you want them to last as long as possible before needing to be replaced. Consider the firmness of the midsole foam, the outsole’s rubber coverage, and the upper materials’ quality when assessing the shoe’s durability.
The midsole foam should not be easily compressed and should bounce back nicely on each step. There should be a good layer of rubber underfoot, and the shoe should be well-made of good-quality materials.
Heavier walkers may be harder on their shoes than others, so it’s important to consider these elements before choosing a shoe that might not last.
Breathability
If you’re new to walking or you’re walking for weight loss, it’s likely that you’ll sweat a good bit during your exercises. You want the shoes you choose to be breathable enough that your feet don’t overheat.
On the other hand, you don’t want them to be so breathable that your feet get cold in cooler weather. The level of breathability you need may depend on the weather in which you’re likely to be walking.
Shoe Weight
The heavier your shoes, the more they’ll feel like they’re weighing you down. You’d be surprised how much difference just a few grams make! It’s important to note that stability shoes will naturally weigh more than neutral shoes.
However, it depends very much on the person as to what feels heavy and what doesn’t. You may want to do your research and see what other people are saying, or if possible, try them on and take a bit of a walk to get a feel for them before you buy.
FAQs
Wondering what makes a shoe one of the best walking shoes for overweight men? Here’s some more info to help you decide on the right shoe for your weight loss journey.
When Do I Need More Stability and Cushioning in Walking Shoes?
Well-cushioned shoes are comfy!
Unless you’re running competitively and need snappy responsiveness in a shoe, most walkers are going to favor cushioned, comfortable footwear.
Extra cushioning is great if you’re carrying some extra pounds, as it provides better shock absorption on every step. You can afford to go for more cushion if you’re just walking, as you most likely won’t be assessing the energy return of your shoes.
As for stability, walkers whose feet roll inwards when they step (overpronate) need to look for a stability shoe that gives them adequate support for their feet. Those with flat feet or high arches need proper support so that their feet stay properly aligned.
Improperly aligned feet can lead to muscle fatigue, aches and pains, and even painful injuries.
What Does Cushioning Do?
The primary function of cushioning (apart from comfort) is to absorb shock that can jar the joints. A thick layer of cushion effectively dampens vibrations that happen on every step, protecting your joints from harm.
A spongy or bouncy cushion can also help to reduce foot and leg fatigue, as it uses the energy (shock) from the footstrike to help push you off again.
Why Are Running Shoes Good for Walking?
Not all walking shoes offer the features we mentioned above. Walkins is a lot easier on the joints than running, but often walking shoes don’t have adequate cushion to protect the feet and joints.
Running shoes are often well-cushioned, especially in the particular areas where your foot hits the ground hard. They’re ideal for anybody who is serious about walking as an exercise.
