Last Updated on December 28, 2024 by Kimberly Stroh
If you’ve got plans to kick your fitness goals into high gear, you’ve come to the right place. I’m all about helping you get started with the best knowledge and gear you need. Purchasing the right shoes will make all of the difference when you’re running. I’ve gathered some great reviews from fellow bloggers and running resources to bring you the 10 best women’s running shoes for overweight runners. Plus, I’ve divided them into two categories: road running and trail.
Related: 10 Plus Size Running Clothes Every Curvy Runner Needs
10 Best Running Shoes For Heavy Women Runners
Picking the right shoes can make such a difference in your running. It can prevent injuries, help elevate excess stress on your joints, and even offer some cushion to make running more comfortable. You shouldn’t cheap out on running shoes. They’re an investment that will help you crush those fitness goals.
When you’re shopping shoes for overweight runners (or I like to say… fluffy), it’s even more important to pick a shoe that will give you support, stability, and cushion. There’s more stress on your joints, and the ankle needs support. Some injuries, like plantar fasciitis, are more common amongst overweight runners.
When To Buy New Running Shoes
You should be replacing your running shoes every 300 – 400 miles. Do not purchase new running shoes right before a race. You want to allow time to break in your running shoes. Allow at least a month before a race to break in your running shoes. If you’re running multiple back-to-back races, like Run Disney’s Dopey Challenge, you’ll want to purchase several pairs of running shoes. If you run on a daily basis (which you really shouldn’t do that year-round), your running shoes need a break. By alternating shoes, you’ll allow the cushion to expand. Once again, it’ll offer you the support you need.
How To Track The Mileage On Your Running Shoes
After purchasing a new pair of running shoes, you want to make a note of it. Most likely, you’re probably already using a fitness tracker to keep track of the miles you are logging. I use my Apple Watch. When I complete my first workout in a new pair of shoes, I make a note of that workout. Most fitness apps have a section where you can add notes about your workout. From there, you’ll be able to keep track of how many miles you’ve run in that particular pair.
Best Women's Running Shoes For Overweight Runners
Shopping for running shoes can be overwhelming. There are so many different options and sometimes you just need to be pointed in the right direction.
There are some running stores that offer fittings, and that's great to determine your size. Use this guide to point you in the right direction and maybe try a couple of options before deciding on your favorite to keep!
I have to start this list with my personal favorite running shoe, the Ahari 6 (read my full review), and what I'm currently wearing. If you overpronate, this is a great option. Hoka One One is now popular beyond the running community, but they still make a fantastic stability shoe.
Brooks is another favorite brand of mine. They're quality is top notch. These Ariels are designed to reduce unnecessary movement as you run. They also claim to protect your knees thanks to the built-in stability.
On is a brand that's quickly becoming popular. They don't have the brand history yet, but runners who wear them seem to be big fans. The Cloudswift provides flexibility and support at the same time - if you want to "feel the road".
If you alternate between road and trail running, this is the shoe you need. The Topo Runventure promised to provide the stability and support on the road, with flexibility on the trail. It's made with specialty foam and they have removable insoles if you want to use your own specialty insole.
Do you know the brand Vibram? They are famous for the 5 toe flat shoe, but this is their running shoe. They took original Vibram technology and applied it to running. The high-performance sticky rubber outsole provides unrivaled grip on wet and dry surfaces to prevent injury.
This is a great go to budget-friendly trail running shoe. Skechers started making running shoes and put a lot of thought into the design, when they started in fashion. This shoe is light and responsive, but still provides enough support for trail running.
Notice the anatomical wave shape that Mizuno is known for. It's true to your form for a balanced, stable run every single time. This shoe promises extra cushion and I love the bright neon colors!
The Ultraventure is the most stability looking trail shoe I've ever seen. It looks and feels like a road running shoe, but still has the flexibilty you need for trail.
This design might be my personal favorite (love pink and gray), but the Cohesion is known for great performance too. It has a natural foot shape and comes in wide sizes, too!
Hoka is known for a fabulous road running shoe, but check out this option for the trail! These are great for trail running or hiking and are clearly very breathable for hot or humid weather. I also love this design!