Running when you're overweight isn't easy. Problems like sore knees and aching feet are common if you wear the wrong shoes. Most running shoes just aren’t built for bigger bodies.
That’s why finding the best running shoes for overweight men is so important.
The right pair can:
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Ease joint pressure
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Support your arch
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Help you actually enjoy moving again.
And no, it doesn’t have to cost a fortune or feel bulky and stiff.
Keep reading, as we’re sharing the top 10 running shoes for overweight men. Here’s the table:
|
Shoe |
Best For |
Stability |
Weight |
Versatility |
Wide Fit Available |
|
Asics Gel-Kayano 31 |
Stability |
High |
Medium |
Walking + Running |
Yes |
|
Brooks Glycerin Max |
Maximum Cushion |
Medium |
Light |
Walking + Casual Running |
Yes |
|
Adidas Adizero Boston 12 |
Daily Training |
Medium |
Very light |
Running + Gym |
No |
|
Saucony Endorphin Speed 4 |
Versatility |
Medium |
Light |
Running + Cross-training |
No |
|
Asics Novablast 5 |
High Arches |
Medium |
Light |
Walking + Light Running |
Yes |
|
Hoka Clifton 9 |
Everyday Wear |
Medium |
Medium-light |
All-day wear + Walking |
Yes |
|
Nike Pegasus 41 |
All-Purpose |
Medium |
Light |
Running + Errands |
Yes |
|
New Balance 880v15 |
Durability |
Medium |
Slightly heavy |
Daily Use + Long Walks |
Yes |
|
Puma Velocity Nitro 3 |
Responsiveness |
Medium |
Very light |
Running + Treadmill |
No |
|
Brooks Adrenaline GTS 24 |
Support |
High |
Medium |
Walking + Light Runs |
Yes |
Best Running Shoes for Overweight Men (Tested by Us)
We tested 10 popular running shoes over several weeks. The best shoes for overweight men are Asics Gel-Kayano 31, Brooks Glycerin Max, and Adidas Adizero Boston 12. Each one offers a different kind of comfort, support, and feel.
Asics Gel-Kayano 31 – Best for Stability
The Asics Gel-Kayano 31 is the best running shoe for overweight men who need strong arch support. We wore these shoes for two weeks straight. It helped keep our feet aligned and reduced the pressure on our knees. If you overpronate or have flat feet, this shoe makes a huge difference.
Quick Overview Table
|
Best For? |
Runners who need extra stability and arch support |
|
Made From? |
Mesh upper, GEL cushioning, FF Blast Plus Eco foam |
|
Suitable For? |
Road running, walking, everyday use |
|
Pairs Well With? |
Supportive socks, flat-foot insoles |
Total Score: 4.5 / 5
-
Comfort: 4.5
-
Durability: 4.8
-
Breathability: 4.2
-
Versatility: 4.3
Key Features
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Stability Design: This shoe stopped our feet from rolling inward. It gave great balance during long walks.
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GEL Cushioning: The heel felt soft and reduced joint impact. Our knees were less sore the next day.
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FF Blast Plus Eco Foam: It gave bounce without feeling too soft. We liked the mix of comfort and control.
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Durable Outsole: After 50 miles, the bottom still looked almost new.
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Heel Lock: The back held our foot in place with no sliding.
Pros and Cons
|
Pros |
Cons |
|
Great arch support |
A little heavy |
|
Helps with flat feet |
Could be cooler on humid days |
|
Soft heel cushioning |
|
|
No break-in needed |
|
|
Long-lasting sole |
|
|
Fits true to size |
|
|
Comfortable for long hours |
Brooks Glycerin Max – Best for Maximum Cushioning
The Brooks Glycerin Max is best for overweight men who want soft comfort for walking or standing all day. We wore this shoe during recovery weeks. It gave our joints a break and felt like walking on foam. It’s not for fast runs, but it’s perfect for daily comfort.
Quick Overview Table
|
Best For? |
Runners and walkers who need soft cushioning |
|
Made From? |
Nitrogen-infused foam, mesh upper |
|
Suitable For? |
Walking, running, long days on your feet |
|
Pairs Well With? |
Thick socks, orthopedic insoles |
Total Score: 4.6 / 5
-
Comfort: 5.0
-
Durability: 4.4
-
Breathability: 4.5
-
Versatility: 4.3
Key Features
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DNA Loft v3 Cushioning: This foam is soft but never felt flat. We could wear it all day.
-
Wide Base: Gave us more room and better balance.
-
Soft Heel and Tongue: Made it easy to wear without any pressure points.
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Good for Joint Relief: We felt less pain in knees and hips.
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Lightweight for its Size: Felt less bulky than we expected.
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True to Size: We didn’t need to size up or down.
Pros and Cons
|
Pros |
Cons |
|
Super soft underfoot |
Not built for speed |
|
Very breathable |
Can feel too soft for some |
|
Good for sore joints |
|
|
Works for all-day wear |
|
|
Wide toe box |
|
|
No pressure on arches |
|
|
Doesn’t need breaking in |
Adidas Adizero Boston 12 – Best for Daily Training
The Adidas Boston 12 is the best running shoe for overweight men who want a light shoe for daily runs or gym workouts. This was the lightest shoe we tested, but it still had enough support for us. It worked well when we needed something quicker and more flexible.
Quick Overview Table
|
Best For? |
Runners who want a daily shoe that’s light and fast |
|
Made From? |
Textile upper, Lightstrike Pro and Lightstrike 2.0 foam |
|
Suitable For? |
Daily runs, gym use, treadmill workouts |
|
Pairs Well With? |
Thin socks, light arch support insoles |
Total Score: 4.3 / 5
-
Comfort: 4.3
-
Durability: 4.2
-
Breathability: 4.4
-
Versatility: 4.3
Key Features
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Lightstrike Foam Combo: Gave a bit of bounce and felt stable under our weight.
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Thin Upper: Let in lots of air. It felt cool the whole run.
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Energy Rods in the Sole: Gave us a firm feel and helped with faster runs.
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Good Grip: Worked well on road, treadmill, and even gym mats.
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Low Drop: Helped us move naturally, without leaning forward.
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Eco-Friendly Build: Parts are made with recycled material.
Pros and Cons
|
Pros |
Cons |
|
Very light and fast |
Not soft enough for longer runs |
|
Breathable |
May feel too firm for some |
|
Secure fit |
|
|
Good for gym or treadmill |
|
|
Looks great |
|
|
Grippy sole |
|
|
Solid for training |
Saucony Endorphin Speed 4 – Best for Versatility
The Saucony Endorphin Speed 4 is the best running shoe for overweight men who want one shoe for everything — from running to walking to gym workouts. We tested this shoe on pavement, treadmill, and during strength training. It handled all of it.
Quick Overview Table
|
Best For? |
Overweight runners who want a multi-use shoe |
|
Made From? |
Mesh upper, PWRRUN PB foam, nylon plate |
|
Suitable For? |
Running, walking, training, cross-fit |
|
Pairs Well With? |
Cushioned socks, supportive insoles |
Total Score: 4.4 / 5
-
Comfort: 4.4
-
Durability: 4.3
-
Breathability: 4.5
-
Versatility: 4.5
Key Features
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PWRRUN PB Foam Midsole: It gave us a good bounce without being too soft. Every step felt smooth and light.
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Nylon Plate Inside: This helped with energy return.
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Lightweight Build: The shoe felt light, even under our heavier frames.
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Flexible Fit: It adjusted to different workouts.
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Secure Heel Fit: Kept our feet from slipping.
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Slight Rocker Shape: Helped us move forward naturally.
Pros and Cons
|
Pros |
Cons |
|
Great for both running and cross-training |
Not ideal for slow, easy walks |
|
Bouncy but not unstable |
May feel narrow for wider feet |
|
Breathable mesh |
|
|
Lightweight design |
|
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Smooth transition from heel to toe |
|
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Good grip indoors and out |
|
|
True to size fit |
Asics Novablast 5 – Best for High Arches
The Asics Novablast 5 is the best shoe for overweight runners with high arches. We noticed this shoe gave just the right lift and bounce under our arches. If your feet feel tired or unsupported in flat shoes, this one will feel much better. We used it for both walks and short jogs, and our arches stayed comfortable the whole time.
Quick Overview Table
|
Best For? |
Overweight runners with high arches |
|
Made From? |
Engineered mesh, FF Blast+ Eco foam |
|
Suitable For? |
Running, walking, light training |
|
Pairs Well With? |
Arch support socks, neutral insoles |
Total Score: 4.4 / 5
-
Comfort: 4.5
-
Durability: 4.3
-
Breathability: 4.5
-
Versatility: 4.2
Key Features
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High Arch Support: It lifts feet in the right spots.
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FF Blast+ Eco Foam: Soft and springy. Helped us move without feeling tired.
-
Wide Platform: Gave us more balance, which we appreciated at higher weights.
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Good Heel Fit: The back didn’t slip or rub.
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Rocker-Style Sole: Helped us roll forward smoothly.
Pros and Cons
|
Pros |
Cons |
|
Great arch support |
Can feel too bouncy for some |
|
Cushioned but light |
Not made for speed workouts |
|
Cool and breathable |
|
|
No pressure points |
|
|
Good fit for heavier runners |
|
|
Handles both walking and running |
|
|
Stylish design |
Hoka Clifton 9 – Best for Everyday Wear
The Hoka Clifton 9 is the best shoe for overweight men who need all-day comfort. We wore this shoe to work, on walks, and it never felt bulky or stiff. The cushion stayed soft all day. It’s not a fast shoe, but it’s one we kept grabbing for daily use.
Quick Overview Table
|
Best For? |
Everyday wear and long hours on your feet |
|
Made From? |
Engineered mesh, EVA foam midsole |
|
Suitable For? |
Walking, standing, errands, casual runs |
|
Pairs Well With? |
Compression socks, gel insoles |
Total Score: 4.5 / 5
-
Comfort: 4.8
-
Durability: 4.3
-
Breathability: 4.5
-
Versatility: 4.4
Key Features
-
Full EVA Foam Midsole: Gave soft support underfoot all day long.
-
Breathable Mesh Upper: Kept our feet cool, even when worn for hours.
-
Wide Base: Made us feel stable and balanced, especially while walking.
-
Padded Collar and Tongue: No rubbing, even when worn without thick socks.
-
Meta-Rocker Sole Shape: Helped us walk naturally without foot strain.
Pros and Cons
|
Pros |
Cons |
|
All-day comfort |
Not built for speed or workouts |
|
Super soft feel |
Slightly bulky look |
|
Great for wide feet |
|
|
Breathes well |
|
|
Stable and supportive |
|
|
Easy to walk in for long hours |
|
|
Holds up well with regular use |
Nike Pegasus 41 – Best for All-Purpose Running
The Nike Pegasus 41 is the best all-purpose running shoe for overweight men who want a balance of comfort and everyday performance. We’ve used the Pegasus line for years, but this version really improved the ride. It feels smoother underfoot and is better suited for heavier runners now.
Quick Overview Table
|
Best For? |
All-around daily running and walking |
|
Made From? |
ReactX foam, Zoom Air units, breathable mesh |
|
Suitable For? |
Road runs, treadmill, casual wear |
|
Pairs Well With? |
Cushioned socks, neutral insoles |
Total Score: 4.4 / 5
-
Comfort: 4.5
-
Durability: 4.3
-
Breathability: 4.4
-
Versatility: 4.4
Key Features
-
ReactX Foam Midsole: Delivers soft cushioning without feeling mushy. We liked the mix of bounce and control.
-
Zoom Air Units: Provided a smooth takeoff and landing. The added spring helped us go farther.
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Slightly Roomier Toe Box: Gave our toes some breathing space.
-
Trusted, Neutral Ride: A go-to for everything from runs to errands.
Pros and Cons
|
Pros |
Cons |
|
Very comfortable right away |
Not much structure for flat feet |
|
Works well for everyday use |
May lack stability for side movements |
|
Breathes well in warm weather |
|
|
Good for casual and performance use |
|
|
Holds up with heavier weight |
|
|
Soft but responsive ride |
|
|
No break-in needed |
New Balance Fresh Foam X 880v15 – Best for Durability
The New Balance 880v15 is the best running shoe for overweight men who want something durable. We logged over 70 miles in this shoe during testing — it still looks and feels nearly new. The sole held up, the foam didn’t flatten, and the upper stayed firm.
Quick Overview Table
|
Best For? |
High-mileage running and walking |
|
Made From? |
Fresh Foam X midsole, durable rubber outsole |
|
Suitable For? |
Long runs, daily walks, treadmill |
|
Pairs Well With? |
Durable socks, custom inserts |
Total Score: 4.5 / 5
-
Comfort: 4.4
-
Durability: 4.8
-
Breathability: 4.3
-
Versatility: 4.5
Key Features
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Fresh Foam X Midsole: Gave a soft, steady ride without flattening out. We felt solid support even after heavy use.
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Sturdy Rubber Outsole: Still looked fresh after weeks of running.
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Padded Collar and Tongue: Added comfort on longer days.
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Breathable Mesh Upper: Handled sweat and warm weather easily.
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Balanced Cushioning: Not too soft, not too firm.
-
Daily Trainer Vibe: Great for both consistent runs and casual wear.
Pros and Cons
|
Pros |
Cons |
|
Extremely durable build |
A little heavier than others |
|
Supportive for high mileage |
Not for speed workouts |
|
Comfortable under pressure |
|
|
Wide-foot friendly |
|
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Cushioned but steady feel |
|
|
Upper holds its shape |
|
|
Reliable for daily use |
Puma Velocity Nitro 3 – Best for Responsiveness
The Puma Velocity Nitro 3 is the best shoe for overweight men who want a light, responsive feel without losing comfort. We didn’t expect this one to impress us as much as it did. It felt faster, bouncier, and smoother than most other shoes we tried.
It’s ideal for runners who want to move quickly and stay light on their feet.
Quick Overview Table
|
Best For? |
Lively runs and fast-paced workouts |
|
Made From? |
Nitro foam midsole, engineered mesh upper |
|
Suitable For? |
Running, short tempo sessions, treadmill |
|
Pairs Well With? |
Thin performance socks, light insoles |
Total Score: 4.3 / 5
-
Comfort: 4.2
-
Durability: 4.3
-
Breathability: 4.5
-
Versatility: 4.2
Key Features
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Nitro Foam Midsole: Made each step feel light and snappy.
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Responsive Cushioning: Enough padding for heavier runners, but never felt soft or squishy.
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Good Grip: Reliable on wet pavement and gym floors.
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Stable Base: Surprisingly solid for how light the shoe feels.
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Modern Design: Looks good enough to wear outside of workouts, too.
Pros and Cons
|
Pros |
Cons |
|
Great energy return |
Lacks support for flat arches |
|
Very breathable |
Not ideal for recovery days |
|
Fast and lightweight |
|
|
Grippy outsole |
|
|
Stylish and low profile |
|
|
Smooth ride feel |
|
|
Quick transitions during runs |
If you’ve struggled with arch pain, check out these top running shoes for flat feet—they’re designed to absorb shock and prevent injury.
Brooks Adrenaline GTS 24 – Best for Support
The Brooks Adrenaline GTS 24 is the best shoe for overweight men who need structure, stability, and reliable ankle support. This is the shoe we reach for when our joints feel off or when we’re recovering. It doesn’t push too hard, but it holds everything in place.
Moreover, for flat feet or overpronation, this shoe is a real help.
Quick Overview Table
|
Best For? |
Arch support and overpronation |
|
Made From? |
DNA Loft midsole, GuideRails support, mesh upper |
|
Suitable For? |
Walking, light running, daily errands |
|
Pairs Well With? |
Stability socks, orthotics |
Total Score: 4.6 / 5
-
Comfort: 4.6
-
Durability: 4.6
-
Breathability: 4.4
-
Versatility: 4.8
Key Features
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GuideRails System: Helped stop our feet from rolling inward. Our knees thanked us.
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DNA Loft Cushioning: Just the right softness underfoot. No foot fatigue after long days.
-
Stable Ride: Gave us confidence, especially during uneven ground walks.
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Roomy Toe Box: Our toes had space to spread and stay comfortable.
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Great for Flat Feet: One of our team members with fallen arches found instant relief.
Pros and Cons
|
Pros |
Cons |
|
Great support for arches |
Not the lightest shoe |
|
Soft and steady cushion |
Not made for fast runs |
|
Feels stable on every step |
|
|
Reduces joint strain |
|
|
Long-wear comfort |
|
|
Great for walking or errands |
|
|
Works well for flat feet |
On Cloud has built a reputation for comfort. See which ones made the list in our top walking shoes from On Cloud review.
Factors Overweight People Should Consider Before Buying Running Shoes
Before you buy a pair of running shoes, it’s important to think about what your body really needs. If you carry extra weight, the wrong shoe can lead to sore knees, foot pain, or even make you give up running altogether.
Here are 6 factors you should always consider before buying running shoes if you’re overweight:
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Cushioning That Holds Up: You need foam that doesn’t flatten too quickly. Good cushioning will absorb shock and keep your joints from feeling the impact.
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Arch and Heel Support: If your feet roll inward or your arches collapse, you’ll want a shoe that gently guides your foot into proper alignment. This can help prevent knee and ankle pain.
-
Durable Materials: Extra weight puts more pressure on every part of the shoe. Look for a strong rubber outsole and a midsole that keeps its shape even after weeks of use.
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Fit and Width Options: Your feet need room, especially during longer walks or runs when they might swell. A wide toe box or wide-size option can keep your feet from feeling cramped.
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Breathability: If your shoes trap heat, your feet will overheat fast. A mesh upper helps air flow in and out, so you stay cooler and drier.
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Weight of the Shoe: Heavy shoes make running harder. You want something that feels light but still gives the support and structure you need.
Now, you know all about how to get the best running shoes for overweight men.
