Walking can be a chore when you are overweight. All that extra weight you are carrying can put more pressure on your joints, especially in the feet and lower leg areas. Choosing the correct footwear can help prevent many of the conditions associated with obesity, including Achilles tendon pain.
Join us as we take a look at some of the best walking shoes for overweight walkers and which features you should consider in the top shoes.
Here is the list best walking shoes for overweight walkers men & women
No manufacturer likes to advertise their shoes as fat people shoes, and how many people would feel comfortable asking for “fat shoes” anyhow? Below are five of the contenders for the best walking shoes for a heavy person—we do prefer the word “heavy” to fat or obese. We will look in more detail at each shoe later in this guide.
1. New Balance MW840 Health Walking Shoe
Looking more like a casual sneaker, the New Balance Health Walking Shoe is available for both men and women. New Balance shoes use a patented ABZORB technology to energize their shoes and distribute the shocks more evenly—handy when carrying extra weight.
- This is the 840.
- Medicare/Hspcs Code = Pdac A5500 Diabetic Shoes
- Rubber Outsole
- Lace Closure
2. Propét Men’s Stability Walker Sneaker
Propét may not be the best-known brand, but these sneakers are definitely worth your attention when it comes to the best walking shoes for heavy persons. The Stability Walkers are designed with a wider forefoot for a more stable stride and are even Medicare approved.
- Material: Full grain leather OR suede with a rubber sole
- Shoe Closure: Space lacing closure system
- Comfort Features: One of our most popular models for people with diabetes, this walking shoe is designed with a wider forefoot and heel base, for the ultimate in stability. The PU insole features a heel pad and cushioning ridges for superior comfort.
- Removable Insole: These styles feature footbeds that can be removed to accommodate custom orthotics.
- Medicare Approved: Style has been approved for reimbursement under the Medicare Therapeutic Shoes for Persons with Diabetes Benefit (also known as the Therapeutic Shoe Bill)
3. Skechers Sport Women’s Go Walk 3 Slip-On Walking Shoe
It’s not always easy to find stylish shoes for obese women which are functional and supportive as well as attractive looking. Skechers slip-on walking shoes use memory foam inner soles for comfort, provide adequate arch support, and allow you to look fashionable at the same time.
- Radically lightweight
- Full length goga mat return energy insole.Multi directional traction sole.
- Memory foam cushioned heel and vamp
- 1 1/4 inch heel height
4. Saucony Women’s Echelon LE2 Walking Shoe
Saucony is one of the most respected names in walking and running shoes for their innovation and ingenuity. The Saucony Echelon LE2 was designed for overweight men or women and features a plush tongue and collar to make them fit as comfortable as possible with superb arch support too.
- Made from super-plush, Garment full-grain leather
5. Brooks Women’s Addiction Walker Walking Shoes
Coming with the fit and feel of a traditional running shoe, this walking shoe from Brooks is highly durable and can deal with all types of terrain. A MoGo midsole is energy returning and ideal for cushioning every step for heavier people as they walk.
- SHOE SIZE: "B" = Medium width, "D" = Wide width, "2A" = Narrow width, "2E" = Extra wide width
- MAXIMUM SUPPORT: Our Extended Progressive Diagonal Rollbar strategically supports your arch to guide and keep your body in its natural path of motion.
- SLIP-RESISTANT, SECURE FIT: The forefoot MC Pod construction and an innovative outsole sets your foot in an efficient, balanced, and stable position.
- SOFT CUSHIONING: BioMoGo DNA adapts to your stride, weight and speed, to make every step comfortable.
- LONG-LASTING: Both comfortable and durable, this shoe with a full-grain leather upper will be a staple to your wardrobe.
Read also our buying guide on the best walking shoes for overpronation.
Reviews of The Best Walking Shoes for heavy person in 2019
To make your job easier in which shoes to pick for walking when you are overweight, we have picked from a selection of the best walking shoes on the market. Each of the shoes we have reviewed aim to make walking more enjoyable and easier on your joints while offering support to your feet.
1. New Balance MW840 Health Walking Shoe
These New Balance walking shoes are designed to support an overweight person and push them to new sporting challenges. Not only do they feel super comfortable due to plentiful cushioning, but they can also help prevent many of the foot problems associated with being overweight.
Available for both men and women, you can also choose from wide width sizes which can be ideal for overweight walkers and wider feet. Featuring excellent arch support, they can also be suitable for people with plantar fasciitis issues or overpronators.
A feature which really makes these walking shoes stand out is the patented ABZORB midsoles which prevent too much impact or shocks in every step—very painful when overweight. The overall design features a higher instep, with breathable perforations and mesh tongue and collar for all-day comfort.
Pros
- Durable full grain leather construction on the upper.
- Breathability and moisture management with perforations and mesh collar and tongue.
- Excellent arch support protects your knees and joints from impact.
- Cushioned insoles with ABZORB impact absorbing midsole.
- Insoles can be removed.
- Durable sole with traction to prevent slipping.
- Available in wider sizes.
Cons
- Rather bulky with an orthopedic look to the silhouette.
- Only two colors are available, black or white.
- Can only be worn for walking and too bulky for running or jumping.
| If you choose the New Balance 840 walking shoes, you can walk without the fear of the consequences that often come from poorly designed shoes. The reliable shock absorption and comfort you get with this shoe mean you can walk that extra mile—literally! |
2. Propét Men’s Stability Walker Sneaker
Although a relatively unknown brand, Propét is a rapidly expanding company that specializes in making some of the world’s best walking shoes. An affordable imported sneaker, this Stability Walker features a 100 percent suede upper with a molded EVA midsole for better shock absorption.
A rigid heel design of this sneaker combats fatigue of the foot which is a common problem for many overweight walkers. A properly padded collar and tongue ensures a comfortable fit with a removable footbed providing yet more cushioning.
Medicare approved, these quality walking sneakers are some of the best for men of a heavier weight with a rocker profile and low heel to arch drop. They can also be used to deal with common issues many overweight walkers experience including joints pains, overpronation, and flat feet.
Pros
- High-quality materials with a choice of either leather or nubuck suede uppers.
- Locked in feel with a rigid heel design.
- Molded EVA midsole provides shock and impact absorption.
- Multi-directional tread on the sole for better traction.
- Speed lace-up system with D-ring enclosures.
- Wider forefoot for a more stable stride.
- Padded tongue and collar for a more comfortable fit.
Cons
- Sizing tends to run small and you are recommended to choose a half size larger than you regularly need.
- Rough stitching can irritate your feet if you don’t invest in an extra sock lining.
| If you are unsure about buying from a relatively unknown brand, let us assure you the Propét Men’s Stability Walkers are some of the best shoes for overweight men. Not only will they support your weight, but the design will cope with many other potential foot health issues too. |
3. Skechers Sport Women’s Go Walk 3 Slip-On Walking Shoe
It’s almost impossible to look at the most comfortable shoes for any activity without mentioning at least one pair of Skechers—they’re just so darned comfortable, like walking on a cloud!
The Go Walk 3 Slip-On Walking Shoe is available for both men and women. It’s one of the best for women out there, with a choice of fashionable colors. The Go Walk 3 is easy to slip on or off and features a mesh material upper, meaning you can wear thin socks and still allow the feet to breathe.
A heel cushion has been crafted inside the memory foam inner sole suggesting you don’t need any additional insoles and is great for those with high arches. What we really like about this high cushioning is you could increase how long you walk without feeling tiredness in your feet.
Aside from the memory foam, where Skechers really stands out for a lightweight walking shoe, is the Goga pillar technology on the midsole and outsole. The GoImpulse and Goga mat offer a more flexible and responsive walking experience while still absorbing shock and impact.
Pros
- Simple slip-on design with a wide choice of 11 colors.
- Very lightweight construction.
- Full-length memory foam insole with a padded heel cup for more support and stability.
- Skechers Performance FitKnit mesh upper for more breathability.
- Under the sole heel padding is ideal for high arches without additional insoles.
- Goga mat and pillars for improved flexibility and feedback.
- Run true to size.
Cons
- Not waterproof for longer walks in more extreme weather or terrain.
- Memory foam can flatten over longer periods of time.
- No wider sizes available.
- Not enough arch support for overpronators.
| If you want a walking shoe which is both supportive of your extra weight and also looks fashionable, Skechers is one of the best options for you. The memory foam inner with a padded heel cup provides both comfort and support, with Goga mat technology providing traction. |
4. Saucony Women’s Echelon LE2 Walking Shoe
After years of catering to competitive athletes, Saucony has decided to take a different track with their shoes and now include overweight people. The Echelon LE2 Walking Shoe has been designed for overweight women and men with features that can prevent foot or joint issues.
A highly orthotic-friendly design features a plush collar and tongue to make your foot feel as comfortable as possible. A feature that really impressed us was the molded EVA ComfortLite sock liner to cradle the foot, providing arch support and reducing the pressure on your forefoot.
A plush supportive leather upper is combined with a carbon rubber outsole material which is 33 percent lighter than standard blown rubber. A full-length PowerGrid midsole absorbs impact and redistributes shock absorption to the heel to smooth each transition.
Pros
- Stylish with super plush, full grain leather upper.
- The durable sole uses a carbon rubber which is lighter than traditional rubber soles.
- An 8mm differential is ideal for heavy walkers who suffer from under-pronation.
- Removable insole can accommodate most orthotics.
- Revolutionary technology like PowerGrid is the first sole based stability cushioning system.
- Dual-density EVA foams for better rebound and durability at a reduced weight.
- Molded EVA sock liner cradles the foot for a more secure fit.
Cons
- Only available in rather dull black or white color choices.
- Very little breathability with only a small mesh at the top of the thick padded tongue.
- Runs a whole size smaller.
| With the Echelon LE2, Saucony has used their years of studying the biometrics of top athletes to develop a walking shoe for overweight people. An innovative grid system and molded EVA sock liner keeps your foot secure while offering support, stability, and comfort. |
5. Brooks Women’s Addiction Walker Walking Shoes
Despite looking like one of the more heavy duty shoes we have reviewed, the Brooks Addiction Walker has the fit and feel of a running shoe. Specifically designed for walking, this casual shoe/sneaker is loaded with support for low arches to prevent your feet from turning inwards or outwards as you walk.
When you’re carrying more weight, to protect your feet, lower leg muscles, and tendons, you need your foot position to be more secure. A reliable slip resistant outer sole uses MoGo midsole cushioning for more return and greater traction as you walk.
Available in a choice of nubuck or full grain leather, this walking shoe is well built using high-quality materials. For those green folk amongst us, the outsole uses an environmentally friendly silica compound which is lightweight, durable, and offers great support.
Pros
- A sturdy, well built walking shoe using only top quality materials.
- Designed especially for overweight people.
- Lightweight with the fit and feel of a running shoe.
- Better heel and arch support.
- Control of pronation with plenty of low arch support and a progressive rollbar.
- Removable sock liner allows for your own insoles and customization.
- A full-length MoGo midsole provides tons of cushioning to your entire foot.
- Hydro flow technology with fluids placed in forefoot and heel to absorb shock and impact.
Cons
- Not very stylish and comes in only three neutral colors—white, bone, and black.
- Silica sole can make squeaking sounds when indoors.
- Many users find the soles are not slip-resistant, especially in snow or icy conditions.
| If you are unlucky enough to suffer from pronation as well as being overweight, the low arch supports of this walking shoe can ensure your feet remain more stable. The shock absorbing midsole can also absorb more shock from the inner sole to make your walk more comfortable. The biggest bonus is the lightweight feel of these shoes compared to some heftier well-cushioned walking shoes. |
Why Do Overweight Walkers Need Special Walking Shoes?
Walking can be a great way to exercise if you’re trying to lose weight and a good way of improving your general health too. According to the latest CDC statistics, walking is the most popular form of aerobic exercise, with six in every 10 adults walking for at least 10 minutes a week.
If you remember that feeling of being ready to take on anything when you were younger, that’s the feeling you can get from an invigorating walk. A daily routine of just 30 minutes of walking is often enough to drop your blood pressure or cholesterol levels and have other health benefits too.
But when you are overweight, you suffer from more pressure on your joints and feet which can result in many health problems. Wearing special walking shoes designed especially for heavyweight walkers can help you lose that weight while protecting your joints and feet better.
How Being Overweight Can Affect Your Feet
We’ve all heard about how extra weight can put us more at risk of diabetes, heart disease, arthritis, and many more conditions. But how does it affect our feet? We know it can be more painful to walk when carrying too much weight, but there are a number of other negative health impacts.
A few obesity-related symptoms your feet may feel include:
- Plantar fasciitis.
- Pain in the heel or the ball of your foot.
- Stress fractures.
- Hammertoes or bunions.
- Ulcers caused by the extra pressure.
- Diabetic neuropathy.
- Swelling from retaining too much water.
- Pain in the ankle or even the Achilles tendon.
- Arthritic pains.
Being obese can also cause many musculoskeletal issues which may affect your foot region and if they persist, without seeing a doctor it can get worse.
Before you panic and start to do something about your weight by exercising, watch this short YouTube video from Seattle Podiatrist Larry Huppin. From the Foot & Ankle Center of Washington, the doctor explains precautions you should take first, including choosing the proper footwear.
Factors to Consider in the Best Walking Shoes for Overweight Walkers
It’s unlikely you are going to find a store in the local mall which has a sign screaming “Shoes for fat people!”—imagine the shame. Instead, you have probably typed into Google in the privacy of your own home phrases like “heavy walkers”, “shoes for overweight people”, or even “best shoes for obese women.”
Being fat, or overweight as I prefer to call it, is nothing to be ashamed of, the vast majority of American adults are overweight or obese—more than 60 percent according to The Lancet. At least you are trying to address it by walking, but if they’re not going to label the shoes as being for overweight people, how do you know which to choose?
These, in our opinion, are the key features you should look for in the best walking shoes for overweight walkers:
Good Arch Support
Choose a shoe that features the right arch support for your foot arch type, whether it’s flat, high, low, or normal.
To reduce the amount of pressure on your foot arch and your plantar fascia, it’s important your shoe features effective and proper support. Your foot arch takes all of your weight when you are mid-stride and often 50 percent as you stand.
Stability
Stability in your shoes is so important when you are overweight, much more than someone who is an ideal weight.
Features in the best walking shoes that can help with foot stabilization include hardened sections in the midfoot area to reinforce the sole. These sections also prevent torsional twisting and are often referred to as PDRB or progressive diagonal roll bar.
Motion control walking shoes will contain the highest levels of reinforcement with less cushioning, which often allows the foot to roll. These shoes are best for overpronators who are overweight, but for the rest of us, we may prefer more cushioning for comfort.
Cushioning
The key to a more comfortable walking experience, especially for heavy people, is adequate cushioning. Many walking shoes will feature removable inner soles which allow you to add your own orthotics if required.
Memory foam or gel inserts found in many of today’s best walking shoes can significantly improve the cushioning of a shoe. However, remember the heavier you are, the more likely you are to flatten out memory foam.
A cushioned collar and tongue of a shoe can add to the comfort and fit against your ankle which can be prone to more pain if you are overweight. They can also prevent rubbing which can trigger inflammation of the ankle joints, or cause bruised flesh and more pain.
Width
When you are overweight and out of shape, it’s more than likely your feet are going to be larger too. Check the shoes you look at feature wider sizes or don’t have reports of being too narrow or running small. Nothing hurts more than a badly fitted shoe, especially with extra weight bearing down on your foot.
On the optimistic side, ensure the shoes can also be tightened up—you’re not always going to be overweight, hopefully. Most people will lose weight in their feet and hands before they lose around the hips for women or the waist in men. You don’t want to be buying a new pair of walking shoes every time you shed a few pounds.
The Sole
The best walking shoes should have a stable yet flexible sole. You will want a sole which offers good rebound and provides you with support to your knees. A supportive sole can also help prevent lower back pain.
Breathability and Weight
If you plan on going for long walks or wearing your shoes for longer periods, they are going to need a high level of breathability. All day freshness in walking shoes can be achieved through mesh-like materials, ventilation perforated holes, or even breathable leather. Try to avoid shoes with no visible signs of ventilation.
You’re also going to want a shoe which is pretty lightweight for more comfort and less foot fatigue. Modern technologies have enabled shoe manufacturers to provide sturdy shoes yet at lighter weights with advanced materials. Plastic or rubber soles will often be more flexible and lightweight on many of today’s best walking shoes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Having decided what we are looking for in the best walking shoes for overweight walkers, here are just a few of the more common questions we get asked.
How Many Calories Can You Lose Through Walking?
Walking is a great way of losing weight which enables you to see the neighborhood and can even be a social thing. The question is how many calories are you burning? Would you be better off running or jogging?
Research from the American College of Sports Medicine suggests a 180-pound person will expend 270 calories per hour at a brisk pace of 3.5 miles per hour. Push that speed up to 4 miles per hour and the calories burned goes up to over 300 calories.
Would You Not Be Better Running?
Although running can certainly increase the calorie burn and help you lose weight quicker, it can be more challenging when you are overweight.
According to top running site Runtastic, a one-hour walk can be more relaxing and you can burn over 200 calories per hour, depending on your weight and the speed. Due to walking being a less intense exercise, more of those calories will come from fat. And walking will put less stress on your joints and muscles.
How Often Should You Walk?
Although many of us buy pedometers with the aim of walking 10,000 steps a day, it has never been the official recommendation of the CDC.
The guidelines laid out by the Center for Disease Control and Prevention state the average American adult should partake in 150 minutes of average moderation exercise like brisk walking every week.
That’s about 30 minutes a day if you take weekends off for good behavior, or 8,000 steps roughly a day. If you are trying to lose weight, then perhaps you want to do more than the minimum and adding 30 minutes extra every day will help hit that weight loss target.
Step to It
We hope this look at the best walking shoes for overweight walkers has inspired you to put on your walking shoes and go for a brisk spring evening walk. With the correct footwear which offers support and comfort, going for a walk no longer needs to be a chore.
The New Balance MW840 Health Walking Shoe meets all the criteria we have looked at for the best walking shoe for heavy people with an ABZORB shock absorption system and excellent arch support.
New Balance has created a lightweight, yet sturdy and durable casual shoe ideal for longer periods of walking, even when carrying those few extra pounds. The extra comfort of this well-cushioned shoe might inspire you to go that extra mile or two—always a good thing when trying to lose weight!
