According to the latest statistics, more than 1.9 billion adults are overweight. The prevalence of obesity is 39.8 percent and affects about 93.3 million U.S. adults. Obesity is the leading cause of heart attacks and linked directly to diabetes. This is why people who are overweight should pay special attention to their diet and exercise regularly to shed those extra pounds.
Doctors at the California Podiatric Medical Association are of the view that walking is one of the best exercises to lose weight. It can control metabolism, cholesterol levels, and blood sugar as well as burn calories. Walking is a great exercise and relatively easy for most people. However, those who are overweight might find walking every day hard; this is because all that extra weight places more strain on the back, legs, knees, and feet.
The pressure applied to feet with each step is more forceful due to those extra pounds and this can cause severe foot conditions including overpronation, plantar fasciitis, and supination. The question that might come to your mind now is, “How on Earth can you walk if your feet are killing you?”
The answer is simple – by wearing a pair of shoes that best suits overweight walkers.
With the right pair of walking shoes, you would be able to enjoy a potentially rewarding walk around the block without feeling pain in your feet or anywhere else. So, if you are overweight and want to walk regularly to lose belly fat, we recommend you invest in a pair of high-quality walking shoes. There are plenty of walking shoes available in the market which could make it hard for you to find a pair that’s right for you. To help you out, we have compiled a list of best walking shoes for overweight walkers. Before we move on to review each pair of shoes on our list, we’ll discuss some important things that will make it easier for you to find the right walking shoes for your needs.
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Walking Shoe Buying Guide for Overweight Walkers
Factors to Consider When Buying a Pair of Walking Shoes
· Cushioning
When shopping for a pair of walking shoes that best suits you, one of the most important factors to consider is cushioning. Shoes with good cushioning will be able to absorb most of the shock and pressure that comes from walking. Cushioning is provided by insoles so make sure that your footwear has great insoles. If you suffer from some kind of foot condition and use custom orthotics, opt for a pair of shoes with removable insoles so that you can replace them with your own.
· Arch Support
When you are a little bit on the heavy side, you might not have as much arch to your foot as skinny people. As a result, you will have to compensate for this by getting yourself a pair of shoes with good arch support. If you don’t do this, you’ll likely feel pain in your legs, ankles, knees, and feet. Therefore, when you are shopping for a pair of shoes, look for the one that has good support for your soles.
· Pronation
When you are looking to invest in a pair of shoes for walking, pay special attention to your pronation. Pronation is an issue for a lot of people – one might over-pronate or under-pronate. Fat people are more likely to over-pronate, which is why they need to get shoes with great support. Being overweight may cause your feet to flatten which, in turn, causes over-pronation.
Good walking shoes will give you a great amount of shock absorption and help stabilize your gait. This will keep your knees healthy.
· Width
When you are overweight, odds are that your foot is going to be larger. So, when you are shopping for walking shoes, look at the feature-width sizes and make sure there aren’t finding the shoes too small or too narrow. With all that extra weight bearing down on your feet, the last thing you need is a pair of badly fitted shoes.
You should also ensure that the shoes can be tightened up because you are not always going to be obese. You might start losing weight from walking every day and the shoes might eventually become loose as you shed those extra pounds.
· Breathability
You should look for a pair of shoes that ensure maximum breathability. This is because a person who is overweight is likely to sweat a lot and walking with sweaty feet can be very uncomfortable. To avoid this, make sure that the shoes you buy have a breathable upper material like breathable leather, ventilation perforated holes, or mesh-like materials.
· Weight
Heavy shoes can make it hard for you to walk and make your feet ache only after a small stroll around the park. To make walking an enjoyable and comfortable experience, go for light shoes, but make sure that they are made from durable materials and provide sufficient cushioning.
· Outsole
The last factor to consider is the outsole of the shoes you are buying. Your extra weight will put more pressure on the outsole, which is why you should look for a pair with a thick outsole so that it can absorb that extra load. Also, go for something that provides good traction to ensure that you can maintain your balance while walking on different types of terrains.
Health Benefits of Walking
· Burns Calories
Walking can help burn calories thereby helping you lose weight. The actual calorie burn from walking depends on several factors including distance walked, walking speed, terrain, and your weight.
· Can Help Lower Blood Sugar
Walking every day for a short period after eating a meal can help lower your blood sugar levels. In one study, it was found that walking for 15 minutes three times a day is more effective in controlling blood sugar levels than a 45-minute walk at any point of the day.
· May Ease Joint Pain
Walking may help protect your joints, including the hips and knees. Reason being, it helps lubricate the muscles that support the joints. Walking can also prove to be beneficial for people suffering from arthritis. However, if you have arthritis, you should consult with your doctor before you start walking as it can also have negative effects.
· Strengthens the Heart
Research shows that walking 30 minutes a day, five days a week can lower the risk for coronary artery disease by 19 percent. Your risk of suffering from this disease may reduce more when you increase the distance or duration of your walk.
· Boosts Immune Function
Walking may help reduce your risk of developing flu. In one research study, it was found that people who walked every day for 30-45 minutes at a moderate pace had 43 percent fewer sick days than people who didn’t walk.
· Improves Your Mood
Waking can have a positive impact on your mental health. Studies reveal that walking can help reduce depression, anxiety, and negative moods. It may also boost your self-esteem and make you more likely to engage in social interactions.
· Boosts Your Energy
Going for walk may give you that much-needed energy boost after a hectic day at work. Walking increase the flow of oxygen through the body and it may also increase levels of norepinephrine, epinephrine, and cortisol. These hormones help elevate energy levels.
Read Also: Best Hiking Sandals
Our Top 3 Choices
Best Overall Choice: Brooks Women’s Addiction Walker Walking Shoes
Premium Product: Brooks Men’s Beast ’18
Best Value: Rockport Men’s We are Rockin Chranson Walking Shoe
Best Walking Shoes for Overweight Walkers
1. Brooks Women’s Glycerin 17
The Brooks Women’s Glycerin 17 is lightweight, durable, and flexible pair of shoes, designed for walking and running. These shoes offer exemplary comfort, support, and underfoot protection. It should deliver a luxurious walking experience while ensuring that your extra weight doesn’t become a cause for discomfort, even during long walks.
The uppers of the Brooks Women’s Glycerin 17 are made of jacquard mesh that wraps your foot securely and flexibly. The high-quality interior ensures that blisters and irritation are not caused. The uppers allow maximum breathability, thereby reducing the likelihood of your feet sweaty and resulting in bad odors. The padded tongue and collar of these shoes should enhance their supportive fit and protect your ankles against the stress that might occur each time your foot hits the ground.
The midsole of the Brooks Women’s Glycerin 17 is made of DNA LOFT technology and provides a good amount of cushioning. Thanks to this responsive cushioning, you might not feel pain in your feet even when you keep the shoes on throughout the day. The outsole of these shoes is made from rubber, which means that you will get good traction even on slick surfaces.
One thing that you should know about this pair is that they run narrow. So if your feet are a little bigger, it would be better to go for one size above your usual.
Pros of the Brooks Women’s Glycerin 17
- Excellent support
- Great breathability
- Stylish
- Comfortable and lightweight
Cons of the Brooks Women’s Glycerin 17
- Runs narrow
2. Skechers Performance Men’s Go Walk 3 Slip-On Walking Shoe
Like several other walking shoes from Skechers, the Go Walk 3 is renowned as one of the most comfortable shoes on the market. One of the reasons for this is that they feature GOga mat technology, which makes them an extremely easy-wearing pair of walking shoes.
Since the Go Walk shoes are made with lightweight materials like memory foam and resalyte, you are getting a very light shoe that doesn’t compromise on bounce The mesh design of these shoes allows for more airflow, keeping your feet comfortable and free of sweat for longer periods.
The multi-direction traction sole of these shoes should also prevent slipping on wet surfaces, so it might be possible for you to go on a walk even when it’s raining. However, we don’t recommend it since the uppers of the Skechers Performance Men’s Go Walk 3 aren’t water-resistant. The thicker outsole of these shoes should support your additional weight and distribute it across the bottom of your foot. On the other hand, the midsole will absorb shock with Go impulse on all surfaces.
Skechers Men’s Go Walk 3 can also be used on treadmills, just in case you don’t fancy going out for a walk. The only downside to these shoes is that they aren’t durable. If this isn’t a deal-breaker for you, you could go with the Skechers Go Walk 3; otherwise, look elsewhere.
Pros of the Skechers Performance Men’s Go Walk 3 Slip-On Walking Shoe
- Lightweight
- Easy wearing
- Memory foam cushioning
Cons of the Skechers Performance Men’s Go Walk 3 Slip-On Walking Shoe
- Not durable
3. Propét Men’s Stability Walker Sneaker
If you are overweight and have wide feet, the Propét Men’s Stability Walker Sneaker might be a good option for you. These sneakers are very wide and have a high heel height which should provide you good support. They are designed with a heel base and a wide forefoot. Propét Stability Walker Sneakers are also flexible so they should allow your foot to move naturally as you walk. Their outsole is made from rubber, so you could grab a drink from a store on your way back from your walk without worrying about slipping on a slick floor.
Targeted padding provides better than average arch support. Comfort features of these sneakers include padded tongue and collar. Moreover, the insole features cushioning ridges and a gel heel pad for comfort.
The Propét Men’s Stability Walker Sneaker is also a good option for people with diabetes. It comes with removable footbeds so you can replace them with custom orthotics for extra support.
One area where Propét Men’s Stability Walker Sneaker lacks is durability. A few customers have also compliant of uncomfortable rubbing at certain areas of the shoe. However, the majority of customers have had positive things to say about the Propét Men’s Stability Walker Sneaker.
Pros of the Propét Men’s Stability Walker Sneaker
- Removable footbed
- Suitable for wider feet
- Hook-and-loop fasteners
- Good arch support
- Good traction
Cons of the Propét Men’s Stability Walker Sneaker
- Wears out fast
- Uncomfortable rubbing
4. New Balance Women’s WW846 Walking Shoe
The New Balance Women’s WW846 features rollbar TPU system that helps reduce the back and forth movements of your feet to offer a smooth and comfortable experience. The synthetic mesh uppers allow for maximum breathability, keeping your feet sweat-free and reducing the likelihood of awful odors. Anti-microbial Ortholite foam should help protect against fungus and mold, keeping your feet feeling fresh even after a long walk.
The New Balance Women’s WW846 also features lightning dry lining that helps prevent moisture build-up inside the shoes. The outsole of these walking shoes is made of rubber, so you can expect good traction from them on nearly all surfaces.
Since the uppers of the New Balance Women’s WW846 Walking Shoe aren’t made of leather, they won’t last a long time. Another potential deal-breaker can be the style of these shoes as they aren’t the best looking shoes out there. If you can compromise durability and design for comfort and breathability, the New Balance Women’s WW846 Walking Shoe is an option worth considering.
Pros of the New Balance Women’s WW846 Walking Shoe
- Good tread pattern ensures excellent traction
- Anti-microbial Ortholite foam
- Synthetic mesh uppers allow for maximum breathability
Cons of the New Balance Women’s WW846 Walking Shoe
- Not too durable
- Not the most stylish pair out there
5. Rockport Men’s “We are Rockin’ Chranson” Walking Shoe
The Rockport Men’s “We are Rockin’ Chranson” boasts stylish looks and is made from genuine leather. Despite leather construction, these shoes are relatively light and flexible, making them a potential option for overweight walkers.
The Rockport “We are Rockin’ Chranson” is made using ADIPRENE technology which provides support to your heels. The outsole of this pair is designed to offer you good stability when you are walking. The upper materials of these shoes allow flexing without compromising on the movement of your feet. The enhanced arch support of the “We are Rockin’ Chranson” should allow you to use them for long walking sessions.
These shoes also feature TruFLEX technology that provides excellent shock absorption. Moreover, the rubber EVA outsole of the “We are Rockin’ Chranson” should offer you durable grip on almost any surface. The stylish leather design of these shoes makes them a sure win for any casual occasion.
The only problem with these shoes is that they aren’t too durable. Apart from that, the “We are Rockin’ Chranson” is a great pair and we can easily recommend it to you.
Pros of the Rockport Men’s “We are Rockin’ Chranson” Walking Shoe
- Feels more stable
- Fits both wide and narrow feet
- Rubber outsole provides solid traction
- Comfortably lined collar and tongue offer extra comfort
Cons of the Rockport Men’s “We are Rockin’ Chranson” Walking Shoe
- Not the most durable offering
- Some people may find the design unappealing
6. New Balance Men’s MW411v2 Walking Shoe
When it comes to comfort and durability, a few can compete against the New Balance Men’s MW411v2. This pair offers all-around comfort and support, ensuring that your extra pounds don’t make walking a burden on you. The New Balance MW411v2 shoes are flexible and light, so you should be able to wear them on long walks regularly.
The shoes feature leather perforations to allow good breathability and come with removable insoles, in case you want to use your specialized orthotics. They are also extremely comfortable because of the excellent amount of cushioning in the pair. The plush footbeds in the inside enhance comfort while the solid midsole absorbs shock from each impact to the ground.
The insole of the MW411v2 Walking shoe is made of foam while the midsole and outsole utilize light, rubber compounds to reduce the overall weight. It is important to note that these shoes come with relatively narrow sole, which is why they might not be a good option for people with wide heels.
Pros of the New Balance Men’s MW411v2 Walking Shoe
- Durable
- Removable insoles
- Comfortable
Cons of the New Balance Men’s MW411v2 Walking Shoe
- Narrow sole
7. Brooks Women’s Addiction Walker Walking Shoes
If you are overweight and suffer from hammertoes, bunions, or other conditions, the Brooks Women’s Addiction Walker Walking Shoes is an option worth considering. This pair of shoes is loaded with great arch support and control for over-pronation. It also comes with an energy-returning, highly durable midsole (MoGo) that offers great traction.
The exterior of the Addiction Walker is made of leather so you can expect good durability from it. These shoes provide a certain amount of stability and support, securing your feet firmly in place. It also ensures that your foot doesn’t turn inward, which can cause knee pain. The Brooks Addiction Walker features a MOGO midsole cushioning that helps reduce shocks on impact to the ground. These shoes are also slip-resistant, so you can wear them out for a walk on a rainy day.
The design of the Brooks Women’s Addiction Walker is the only thing that could put you off. Other than that, it’s a great option for any obese women looking for a comfortable and durable pair of walking shoes.
Pros of the Brooks Women’s Addiction Walker Walking Shoes
- Durable and sturdy
- Slip-resistant
- Excellent support and exceptional comfort
- Lightweight
Cons of the Brooks Women’s Addiction Walker Walking Shoes
- Unattractive design
8. Skechers Sport Women’s D’Lites Original Non-Memory Foam Lace-Up Sneaker
The Skechers Sport Women’s D’Lites Lace-Up Sneaker is another highly-rated shoe and popular option for overweight walkers. It is available in a variety of designs, colors, and styles, so you should able to find a pair that suits your taste.
These shoes feature cushioned-fabric footbed for maximum comfort while the midsole has been crafted to absorb shocks on each impact. This should spread the weight evenly for the ladies who carry extra pounds. A high heel should help keep the foot firmly in place whether you are walking on smooth or uneven terrains. The uppers are made from genuine leather and come with a lace-up front. The rubber traction sole and cushioned insole of these shoes would help keep your movement stable and steady.
The Skechers Sport Women’s D’Lites Lace-Up Sneaker has received positive reviews from the majority of customers and most of them have praised this pair for its exceptional comfort features.
Pros of the Skechers Sport Women’s D’Lites Original Non-Memory Foam Lace-Up Sneaker
- Comfy and stylish
- High heel should ensure good stability
- Genuine leather
Cons of the Skechers Sport Women’s D’Lites Original Non-Memory Foam Lace-Up Sneaker
- Wears out relatively fast
9. Brooks Men’s Beast ’18
If the price isn’t a concern for you, the Brooks Men’s Beast ’18 should be on your shortlist. This walking shoe is a good option for overweight men as it offers exceptional arch support, good stability, and commendable comfort. This motion control pair of shoes is designed to deliver exquisite performance whether you are walking on rugged trains or smooth tracks.
Both the rear and forefoot sections of the Brooks Men’s Beast ’18 are made of perforated mesh which isn’t just breathable but also durable. The engineered mesh also increases the flexibility of these shoes. Moreover, 3D-Printed Support Saddle has been incorporated into the mid-foot area to give you firm and snug fit. The toe box and heel area are reinforced with sturdy overlays, which should stabilize your feet while allowing you to maintain a good posture.
The Brooks Men’s Beast ’18 is also a good option for men with a flat-foot condition, as it features Super DNA compound that provides smooth heel-to-toe transitions. Apart from support and cushioning, the DNA compound gives a bouncier feel. Brooks has also equipped the Men’s Beast ’18 with Progressive Diagonal Rollbar to stabilize the arch. You can walk with this pair of shoes on roads, gym, floor, and wet surfaces, thanks to their exceptional traction.
Pros of the Brooks Men’s Beast ’18
- Exceptional stability
- Great support
- Comfortable and breathable
- Stylish
Cons of the Brooks Men’s Beast ’18
- Durability can be an issue
10. New Balance Women’s WW847v2 Walking Shoe
If you are looking for a comfortable walking shoe that offers good breathability, the New Balance Women’s WW847v2 can be an option for you. These shoes feature a traditional lace-up system, ensuring a snug fit. ABZORB technology is used to make these shoes, which should prevent your feet from stinking due to sweat.
The tongue, collar, and heel of this shoe have high-quality padding to ensure comfort even on long walks. The uppers are made from suede/mesh materials, which aren’t the most durable but should protect your feet from external elements.
Because of its wide toe box, the New Balance Women’s WW847v2 is a good recommendation for orthopedic purposes. Moreover, the insoles are removable so you can replace them with your custom orthotics. The outsole of these shoes is made from rubber so you should get decent traction on nearly all types of surfaces.
One problem with the New Balance Women’s WW847v2 Walking Shoes is that they don’t always fit as expected. So you’ll have to be careful when ordering them.
Pros of the New Balance Women’s WW847v2 Walking Shoe
- Durable rubber outsole
- Deep toe allows flexing
- Comfortable interiors
- Removable footbeds
Cons of the New Balance Women’s WW847v2 Walking Shoe
- Sizing isn’t done well
11. ASICS Women’s Gel-Tech Neo 4 Walking Shoe
The ASICS Women’s Gel-Tech Neo 4 features gel cushioning system at the forefoot and heels to provide that extra comfort you need on your wide feet. The simple design and form of these shoes mean that you can use them both as a sports shoe and a casual shoe. The ASICS Women’s Gel-Tech Neo 4 sport removable footbeds, so you can replace them with your own custom orthotics for extra comfort and support.
The shafts of these shoes measure low-top from the arch and this pair also comes with a 3M reflector that increases safety for walks in low-light conditions.
Two downsides to the ASICS Women’s Gel-Tech Neo 4 Walking Shoe are that it isn’t durable and the break-in can take some time.
Pros of the ASICS Women’s Gel-Tech Neo 4 Walking Shoe
- Impact reduction from the gel-cushioning system
- Removable insoles
- Rubber soles offer good traction
Cons of the ASICS Women’s Gel-Tech Neo 4 Walking Shoe
- Breaking into this shoe takes some time
- Not too durable
12. Vionic Women’s Walker Classic Walking Shoes
When it comes to style and comfort at a reasonable price, only a few models come close to the Vionic Women’s Walker Classic. This pair comes with a deep heel cut and contoured arch support that help align your natural gait. The uppers of these shoes are made of genuine leathers and are water-resistant, so you should be alright wearing them in rainy weather.
Breathable polyester lining reduces rubbing and friction while podiatrist-developed biomechanical orthotic controls foot order better. The footbed is also removable in case you want to use your own orthotics. The firm heel counter of the Walker Classic shoes should increase stability while offering you better support on all terrains.
Some people have found this walking shoe effective for reducing plantar fasciitis so you can consider buying it if you suffer from this condition. Durability is an issue with the Vionic Women’s Walker Classic Walking Shoe; don’t expect these to last a long time.
Pros of the Vionic Women’s Walker Classic Walking Shoes
- Removable insole
- Adjustable heel straps
- Stretchable uppers
- Shock-absorbing midsole
Cons of the Vionic Women’s Walker Classic Walking Shoes
- Wears out fast
13. Brooks Men’s Adrenaline GTS 19
Brooks Men’s Adrenaline GTS 19 is one of the most popular shoes currently available in the market and it can be a great option for overweight walkers. Brooks features guide rails in this model to aid against overpronation – a common issue with overweight individuals. The upper is made from a breathable mesh that should stretch to the shape of your foot. It’s somewhat water-resistant so you can wear them out in the rain. It is also incredibly comfortable and looks great.
The heel unit of the GTS 19 is soft with firm structure added to it. It should go against the back of your foot quite nicely and won’t cause any slippage. The toe box has ample room to move around but doesn’t cause any discomfort. The fit is also true to size so you might not have to size up. The Brooks Men’s Adrenaline GTS 19 may reduce the excessive motion that starts in the ankle and causes pain in your knees. The rear portion of the midsole of these shoes features a new DNA loft form for a softer, lighter and bouncier sensation in your heel.
A generously padded heel tongue and collar, combined with a high-quality sock liner, make for an incredibly comfortable interior feel. The midsole of the GTS 19 blends a good amount of resiliency with the right amount of softness for the smooth walking experience.
If you are looking for an ultra-comfy pair of walking shoes that can provide good support, add the Brooks Men’s Adrenaline GTS 19 to your shortlist.
Pros of the Brooks Men’s Adrenaline GTS 19
- Extremely comfortable
- Good looking
- Wide toe box
Cons of the Brooks Men’s Adrenaline GTS 19
- Expensive
- Not too durable
Final Thoughts
Being overweight isn’t the end of the world. You can shed those extra pounds by swapping that junk food for green vegetables and nuts and by walking every day. Walking can lead to pain in the knees, heel, and back pain if you aren’t wearing the right footwear. This is why we recommend you to invest in the right pair of walking shoes.
Since we have listed some of the best walking shoes for overweight walkers, you don’t have to look elsewhere to find a pair of shoes that is right for you. All you have to do is pick one from our list. If you are still having trouble selecting the right pair of shoes, we’ll make things simpler for you. We mentioned our top picks at the start, so we’ll now let you know why Brooks Women’s Addiction Walker Walking Shoes is the best overall choice product, what makes the Brooks Men’s Beast ’18 the best premium product and why we believe the Rockport Men’s “We are Rockin’ Chranson” Walking Shoe is the best value offering. You can skip this section if you have already made your decision; otherwise, continue reading.
Best Overall Choice
The Brooks Women’s Addiction Walker Walking Shoes is the best overall choice for overweight walkers. The reason is that these shoes offer great support and control for over-pronation. They also come with an energy-returning and highly durable midsole (MoGo) that offers great traction. The Brooks Addiction Walker features a MOGO midsole cushioning that helps reduce shocks on impact to the ground. Moreover, these shoes are very comfortable, which means that you should be able to enjoy long walks without feeling pain in your back, feet, heel, or ankles.
Premium Product
If you can afford to spend a lot of money on a pair of walking shoes and want to go with a premium product, the Brooks Men’s Beast ’18 is your best bet. These shoes offer exceptional arch support, good stability, and commendable comfort – all the features that an overweight walker would want in their footwear. Moreover, the motion control pair of the Men’s Beast ’18 delivers exquisite performance, whether you are walking on rugged trains or smooth tracks. The features of this pair justify its price and we can easily recommend it to any overweight individual looking for high-quality walking shoes.
Best Value
If you want a pair of shoes that gives you the best value for money, we recommend you go with the Rockport Men’s We are Rockin Chranson. These shoes are made from genuine leather and are relatively light and flexible. The outsole of this pair should offer you good stability while TruFLEX technology will provide excellent shock absorption. Moreover, the rubber EVA outsole of the We are Rockin Chranson should offer you durable grip on almost any surface.
Now pick a pair from our list and enjoy walking without being trouble from that additional weight. When making your decision, consider the factors we discussed earlier including the cushioning, arch support, pronation, width, breathability, outsole and weight of the shoes.
We have provided detailed information on walking shoes for overweight walkers but if you are still finding it hard to select a pair or have any questions to ask from us, feel free to contact us. We’ll be more than happy to assist you in finding a pair of walking shoes.