Updated on July 6th, 2023 at 08:35 pm

If you are a plus-size individual, finding the right walking shoe can be very tricky. For starters, being overweight puts more pressure on your feet, and it’s often accompanied by numerous foot problems and even knee problems. Doctors always advise overweight people to make walking a daily habit to improve their health, but how on earth can we walk anywhere if our feet are killing us?

Wearing the wrong shoe can make it impossible to enjoy a nice walk. Fortunately, many manufacturers have recognized this issue and started designing walking shoes that meet the needs of plus-sized people. If you are looking for the best walking shoes for overweight individuals currently available to purchase online, take a look at the list of our top picks.

From our tests, the ASICS Men’s Gel-Venture 6 Running Shoe stands out the most. They are the top walking shoes designed for overweight walkers. They have an excellently cushioned insole and durable exterior to withstand high wear and tear.

The best walking shoes for heavy individuals

Asics men’s gel venture 6

Best comfort

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The ASICS Gel-Venture 6 Model is strong, durable, and comfortable, making them an excellent choice for Overweight Walking Shoes. These shoes are designed with superior traction for running on rugged terrains, and that’s what makes them so dependable and comfortable. As a heavy walker, you may have experienced foot problems such as plantar fascia, supination or knee problems, and knee pain. With these shoes, you can finally say goodbye to joint pain and discomfort!

The ASICS Gel-Venture walking shoes come with a trail-specific outsole and high-abrasion rubber for superior traction. The reversed lugs on the outsole enhance the grip on different surfaces, while AHAR rubber adds to the shoes’ durability and flexibility.

Rearfoot GEL cushioning offers excellent shock absorption which keeps you comfortable no matter how long you’re active. If you are looking for extra comfort, this model has a removable sock liner that lets you insert custom orthotics for an even more personalized fit.

My hubby tried these perfect shoes, and he felt the bodyweight is evenly distributed all over the foot. I like that these shoes for overweight women and men have just the right amount of extra cushioning without being bulky and would definitely rate these as the best walking shoes for obese men.

Pros

  • A strong build suitable for heavy walkers
  • Rearfoot GEL cushioning system for absorbing shock
  • Mimics the natural form of human feet
  • Available in various widths
  • True to size
  • Have extra reinforcements on the sides for quality support
  • Have removable footbeds for medical orthotics
  • Excellent arch support
  • Affordable price

Cons

  • The air circulation inside the shoe could be better
  • The strong build makes the sneakers a bit heavy
  • Brooks Men’s Addiction Walker Walking Shoes
  • Best for plantar fasciitis and flat feet

Brooks Shoes Brooks Addiction Running

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The Brooks Addiction 14 caught my attention with its performance and comfort. The upper features stiff synthetic overlays that’ll lock your feet in place and avoid shifting as you train, run or walk. Additionally, the toe box has a thin mesh that allows for ample air circulation and keeps your feet from getting too hot. Its low-profile design makes it easy to break in and keeps you from developing blisters.

Moving inside, the midsole technology on the Brooks Addiction Walker shines through. It features proprietary BioMoGo DNA soft cushioning that gives a squishy feeling when you step down on the foam. The foam conforms to the shape of your foot and offers sufficient support when you need it. Moreover, the midsole has motion control which adds some firmness to accommodate quick movements.

The rubber outsole is versatile and durable. It has modest lugs that increase contact with the ground for better performance on treadmills, road running, and modest trails. I love that the Brooks Addiction Walker includes an extended Progressive Diagonal Rollbar, which provides your arcs with sufficient support and naturally guides your feet to an even gait.

Pros

  • Easy to break-in
  • Strategically positioned venting system
  • Thick material on the upper keeps the insides dry
  • Midfoot roll bar hence ideal for overpronators
  • Great lockdown
  • Padded collar

Cons

  • The overlays create some hotspots
  • A little heavier than most trainers

New Balance 840v4 s Running Shoes

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This is a great walking shoe for overweight women, especially those suffering from plantar fasciitis. The midsole features ABZORB cushioning system. This proprietary system absorbs impact and transmits energy to the legs and feet, helping you to take every step with sureness and ease. The platform’s top section’s surface allows you to add custom inserts without dealing with minimal in-shoe space.

The upper design has a lightweight mesh that’s flexible and irritation-free. Despite having a cloth predisposition, it allows ample airflow to keep your feet cool. The upper has thin synthetic overlays for reinforcement that help hug the foot securely without adding too much weight or causing foot pain.

The outer sports Ndurance rubber sole on high-wear spots and blown rubber on the forefoot. The latter offers protection and traction while being malleable. Flex grooves on the sole unity are flexible, which encourages natural bending.

Pros

  • Synthetic mesh uppers
  • Malleable blown rubber outsole
  • Ankle height
  • Secure fit
  • Responsive cushioning

Cons

  • Is a little too tight

Saucony Shoes Saucony Cohesion Running Shoes

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Saucony Women’s VERSAFOAM Cohesion walking shoes have changed a lot since the first edition of the Saucony Cohesion line. It seems like each line surpasses the previous one, and surprises the consumers with innovative technologies and design.

The cohesion 12 comes with an enhanced VERSAFOAM cushioning system for ultimate comfort, durable rubber outsole, supportive upper layers, and lightweight design. The shoes have excellent traction, which makes it suitable to wear on different terrains.

They are even recommended by the podiatrists association. When we consider all the features, these sneakers are a must-have shoe for heavy hikers looking for a thrill or want to lose weight!

I would also recommend Saucony’s Cohesion 12 walking shoe to people who walk a lot, struggle with foot issues and pain, and are overall looking for durable yet affordable walking shoes for overweight people.

Pros

  • VERSAFOAM cushioning system
  • Variety of widths available
  • Lots of color options
  • Durable rubber outsole
  • Supportive upper overlays
  • Lightweight construction
  • Removable insoles
  • Provides quality support
  • True to size
  • Affordable price

Cons

  • A bad grip on wet terrains

Skechers Men’s Equalizer

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The Skechers Men’s Equalizer Persistent Slip-On Sneakers are not athletic shoes, but they are as comfortable as running shoes for an overweight person. This model has a classic design with no twists and outstanding details. For the best shoes are simple, made from high-quality materials, comfortable, and easy to fit with any outfit.

If you hate lacing up your shoes or even bending down to put on your shoes, this slip-on model is the right choice! The Skechers Equalizer shoes are also very lightweight. They have a flexible traction outsole which is great for wearing on any terrain, dual side elastic fabric panels for easy slip-on, and a stitched collar trim. The insole of these good shoes are made from memory foam, and the only downside is that you cannot remove the insoles.

Pros

  • Simple design that fits any outfit
  • Slip-on shoes
  • Lightweight and made from breathable materials
  • Comfortable and soft interior
  • Skechers Max Cushioning
  • Memory foam insole
  • Flexible outsole with excellent traction

Cons

  • The memory foam insole is not removable
  • There is no variety in shoe width

YHOON Women’s Walking Shoes Sock Sneakers Slip on Mesh Platform Air Cushion Athletic Shoes Work Nurse Comfortable

Best on a budget

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YHOON Women’s Walking Shoes for overweight women are a great option if you are looking for comfortable, easy-to-put-on slip-on sneakers at an affordable price. These sneakers are made from breathable, lightweight materials, and they are very flexible and comfortable. I found them great for taking a casual walk around the block.

They are not very durable, but they are an excellent option for the given price. I liked the breathable sock sneaker design because it’s very casual and convenient for everyday wear. After trying them on, I could freely move my toes and even my entire feet, which really feels great! Also, no breaking in period is necessary; they are good to go straight out of the box.

Pros

  • Super easy slip-on design
  • Breathable and lightweight
  • Sock sneaker design
  • Conforms nicely to the feet
  • Provides quality support
  • Suitable for everyday use
  • Soft MD air-cushion sole
  • No break-in period required
  • Affordable price

Cons

  • Not very durable

Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 36

Best light shoes

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The Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 36 Running Shoes are super light sneakers. They are designed for running, but since they are super comfortable, many people wear them as everyday footwear.

Overall, this is a very good shoe that comes from a reputable brand. It has a simple upper, comfortable sole, and it’s made from high-quality materials. These running sneakers have a slimmer design than the previous line, and that design managed to reduce the overall bulkiness without compromising comfort.

Personally, I found the shoe too tight and even a bit stiff. It definitely requires around a one-week break-in period to fully open up, especially on the toe box. After that, you will feel like walking on clouds! Also, the air circulation inside the sneakers is excellent and very pleasant to wear during summer.

Pros

  • Reputable brand
  • Very lightweight and comfortable
  • Great foot conforming
  • Optimal responsiveness
  • Slim and simple design
  • Breathable mesh material

Cons

  • Break-in period required
  • Higher price

Brooks Ricochet Running Shoes

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The Brooks Ricochet 3 is yet another comfortable shoe for overweight woman with wide feet. Ricochet 3 is designed as a neutral running shoe that’s comfortable and responsive, making it perfect for overweight people. Ricochet 3 features DNA AMP in the midsole, which helps with absorption of shock from every step and returns the energy to you instead of dispersing it. It’s because of this technology that every step in this shoe feels springy instead of just soft.

The arrow point rubber on the outsole helps to direct energy and power to your forefoot. This encourages smooth and fast heel-to-toe transitions. The breathable upper material helps to keep your feet dry. The circular knit pattern is a little denser in some areas to support the foot as it moves and flexes.

Pros

  • Breathable mesh upper
  • Feels like a sock and is stretchy
  • Offer impressive comfort and support
  • No heel slipping
  • Great midfoot lock

Cons

  • The upper mesh material could be a little thicker

Ryka Women’s Devotion Plus 2 Walking Shoes

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This is one of the best pair of walking shoes for someone carrying around some extra weight. The Ryka Women’s Devotion Plus 2 has excellent arch support making it perfect for people with medium or high arches. In addition to the support, its soft and comfortable qualities make it great for obese people with plantar fasciitis.

The insole molds to your foot shape to provide heel pain relief. Even better, it’s easily replaceable, so you can swap it with a firmer orthotic. However, the support and lightweight design the insole offers are sufficient for most women.

The midsole has a RE-ZORB platform across its length to absorb shock during your runs and walks. On the other hand, the upper is built with a combination of HD foam, wire mesh, and synthetic material. The synthetic overlays offer ample foot support and durability, while the mesh upper offers breathability and contributes to the lightweight design.

The comfortable walking shoe has a deep heel cup that cradles your heel to provide superior stability and balance for heel and ankle support.

Pros

  • The lace-up closure is comfortable
  • Lightweight design
  • Comfortable
  • Moderate arch support

Cons

  • Runs a little small
  • Not good for trail running and hiking

And the best walking shoes for overweight walkers…

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Asics Men’s Gel Venture 6

If you are looking for the best walking shoes for overweight walkers, you now have a perfect starting point. The ASICS Men’s Gel-Venture 6 running shoe are the most comfortable shoes on the list courtesy of its slip-resistant rubber outsole, mesh uppers, and padded tongue. Obese women will undoubtedly fall in love with these rubber walking shoes.

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What are the best walking shoes for overweight walkers?

Unfortunately, there is no simple answer to this question because every person is different and has different personal preferences. Speaking in general, when buying shoes for overweight walkers, you should focus on comfort, the sole, cushioning and shock absorption, the weight of the walking shoes, stability, and breathability of the running shoes.

The sole should be stable and flexible enough to prevent knee pain and low back pain. The same goes for cushioning and shock absorption. Lastly, your outdoor walking shoes should be lightweight and breathable. You want to be comfortable if attempting to get your steps in, doing yoga, or just going about your day.

Are heavy shoes good for walking?

Heavy shoes are not good for walking, and they are not healthy too! Some people think that wearing heavy shoes during a walk on the Treadmill will help them shed the extra pounds faster. This is true, but the difference is very, very small, and it’s not worth the potential risk of injury.

Wearing a heavy pair of shoes all day can easily cause ankle pain, knee pain, and various joint injuries, and as a heavy person, you already put a lot of pressure on your joints. The lighter the pair of shoes is, the better!

Do skechers equalizer persistent slip-on sneakers require a break-in period?

The Skechers Men’s Equalizer Persistent Slip-On Sneakers are made for all-day comfort and performance. These shoes don’t require a break-in period like most new shoes. They are good to wear for extended periods straight out of the box!