This guide explains what to look for in a shoe, and it lists nineteen shoes for men and women plus three accessories that make shoes and socks easier to put on. Every product is in stock on the web US.

Shoe basics for heavier feet
- The NHS says being overweight or obese increases the strain on your joints and your risk of developing osteoarthritis.[1]
- OrthoInfo says running and jumping create an impact force through the legs of three to five times a person’s body weight.[3]
- OrthoInfo describes stability shoes as the choice for runners with flat feet and those with a heavier body weight.[3]
- Feet swell through the day, so OrthoInfo advises buying shoes toward the end of the day, and standing while your feet are measured because your body weight expands your feet.[4]
- Shoes that are too tight, too loose or without enough support put unwanted stress on the feet, ankles, legs, hips and spine.[4]
Being Overweight Affects Your Feet and Body
Your feet carry your whole body weight when you walk, run or stand, and they absorb the impact every time a foot hits the ground.
- Joint Strain – The NHS says being overweight or obese increases the strain on your joints and your risk of developing osteoarthritis.[1]
- Impact – OrthoInfo says running and jumping create an impact force three to five times body weight.[3]
- Heel Pain – OrthoInfo says heel pain from plantar fasciitis is often seen in overweight people because of overload.[2]
- Foot Size – Your body weight spreads your feet when you stand, which is why OrthoInfo says to have your feet measured while standing.[4]
- Staying Active – The NHS calls walking one of the easiest ways to get more active, lose weight and become healthier.[5] Shoes that feel good make it easier to keep going.
Benefits of Wearing the Right Shoes
A shoe made for more weight does a few jobs at once:
- Fit and Room – Shoes that are too tight or too loose put unwanted stress on the feet, ankles, legs, hips and spine.[4] A roomy toe box and the right width prevent that.
- Stability – OrthoInfo says stability shoes, which add firmer material in the arch and heel, suit runners with flat feet and those with a heavier body weight.[3]
- Cushioning – Cushioning softens impact, but OrthoInfo says it becomes less effective over time, even without use, so replace worn shoes.[3]
- Adjustability – Laces, straps and hook-and-loop closures let you set the fit and loosen it as your feet swell during the day.
- Room for an Insole – OrthoInfo says a removable insole lets you swap in a cushioned insole or an orthotic without taking up extra space in the shoe.[4]
Choosing a Shoe and Getting Started
Make sure your shoes are neither too loose nor too tight. Try them on at the end of the day or after a workout, when your feet are at their largest, and wear the same sock weight you plan to wear with the shoes.[3][4]
Many models come in more than one width, marked with the letters A through E or with the word “wide”. OrthoInfo says that if a shoe does not come in a wider size, buy a different brand with a wider toe box instead of going up a size in the same shoe.[4]
The NHS says any shoes or trainers that are comfortable, give adequate support and do not cause blisters will do for walking.[5] Pick cushioning and support to match your foot type, and start with short walks that you extend as they feel comfortable.
OrthoInfo gives runners a rule of thumb for replacing running shoes: divide 75,000 by your weight to find the number of miles to run before you need a new pair.[3]
Features of a Good Shoe for Overweight Men and Women
- Durable Materials – OrthoInfo says leather shoes are typically sturdy, while mesh and other man-made materials are more likely to lose their shape and offer less support.[4]
- Fit – A roomy toe box where the toes can wiggle, and a width option when you need one.[3][4]
- Support – A stable heel counter matters because walking uses a heel-toe gait, and a stiffer shank gives more support. A stable shoe also helps with overpronation.[3][4]
- Cushioning – Good cushioned walking shoes take the edge off impact.[3]
- Easy On and Off – Slip-ons, hook-and-loop straps and elastic laces help if bending to your feet is hard.
How We Chose These Shoes
We do not test shoes ourselves. We compared each model’s width options, cushioning, stability features and closure using the makers’ descriptions and The web product pages, and we kept only products that are in stock on the web US. Brands do not pay to be included, but we may earn a commission from purchases.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Shoes for Overweight Men and Women
- What kind of shoe is best for heavier people?
Choose a shoe that fits well with a roomy toe box, firm cushioning and a stable heel. OrthoInfo describes stability shoes as the choice for runners with flat feet and those with a heavier body weight.[3] - Do I need wide shoes?
Many models come in wide widths, marked with a letter from A to E or the word wide. OrthoInfo says to try a different brand with a wider toe box before you go up a size.[4] - When should I replace my shoes?
OrthoInfo says cushioning becomes less effective over time, even without use. For running shoes it suggests dividing 75,000 by your weight to estimate the miles before you need a new pair.[3] - Are sandals a good choice?
OrthoInfo says sandals generally do not offer much foot support and stability, and that a sandal with a cork midsole is more supportive than one with a rubber sole.[4] - Why do my feet hurt when I stand or walk a lot?
OrthoInfo says heel pain from plantar fasciitis is often seen in overweight people because of overload.[2] See a doctor or podiatrist if the pain does not go away.
Key Specs
| No. | Shoe | Type | Closure | Width options | Drop / Cushion | Weight |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | ASICS Cumulus 28 | Running | – | – | FF BLAST | – |
| 2 | New Balance M1540v3 / W1540v3 (women's) | Running | – | Medium, X-Wide | – | – |
| 3 | Saucony Guide 19 | Running | – | – | – | 10.5 oz |
| 4 | New Balance MW928v3 / WW928v3 (women's) | Walking | Lace-up | Medium, Wide, X-Wide | ABZORB | – |
| 5 | Drew Force | Walking | Hook-and-loop | Medium, Wide, X-Wide | – | – |
| 6 | New Balance 577 V1 | Walking | – | Medium, Wide | – | – |
| 7 | Vionic Walker Classic | Casual sneaker | – | – | – | – |
| 8 | New Balance 608 V5 | Casual sneaker | – | Medium, X-Wide | 10 mm drop / EVA | – |
| 9 | New Balance Fresh Foam 680 v9 | Running | – | – | ABZORB | – |
| 10 | Orthofeet Lava | Walking | – | Medium, Wide | – | – |
| 11 | Skechers Go Walk 6 Slip On | Walking | Slip-on | Medium | Goga Mat | – |
| 12 | Orthofeet Avery Island / Chelsea (women's) | Dress/casual | – | Medium, X-Wide | – | – |
| 13 | Rockport Style Leader 2 | Dress/casual | Lace-up | – | – | – |
| 14 | Dansko XP 2.0 / Professional (women's) | Shoe | Slip-on | Medium, Wide | – | – |
| 15 | KEEN Utility San Antonio / Santa Fe (women's) | Work | – | Medium, Wide | – | – |
| 16 | Crocs Classic Clog | Shoe | Slip-on | – | – | – |
| 17 | ASICS Gel-Venture 11 | Trail/hiking | – | – | GEL Technology | – |
| 18 | Birkenstock Arizona | Shoe | – | – | Eva | – |
| 19 | Propet Daytona | Shoe | – | – | – | – |
| 20 | RMS Deluxe Sock Aid | Accessory | – | – | – | – |
| 21 | Hickies Tie Free | Accessory | Lace-up | Medium | – | – |
| 22 | RMS Extra Long Handled Shoe Horn | Accessory | – | – | – | – |
– = not stated by the maker. Specs as stated by the maker, not tested by us.
Reviews: Shoes for Overweight Men and Women
Here are our picks. Each product is in stock on the web US. We may earn a commission if you buy through the links on this page, at no extra cost to you.
Best Running Shoes for Overweight
Running shoes are the most cushioned everyday shoes, and the stability models add a firmer arch and heel. They also work for walking.
1
Neutral Cushioned Daily Trainer
- FF Blast Max foam and rearfoot PureGEL cushion each landing and return energy at toe-off.
- The engineered mesh upper is light and breathable, and the Fluidride outsole blends EVA and rubber for traction without extra weight.
- An OrthoLite X-30 sockliner cushions and manages moisture, and reflective details help you stay visible in low light.
2
Motion Control Running Shoe
- An Encap midsole combines light foam with a polyurethane rim for support and impact absorption.
- A Rollbar stability post controls rear-foot motion for a steadier stride.
- The mesh and synthetic upper is breathable. New Balance has stopped making the 1540v3 in the US, so stock is limited.
3
Stability Trainer with Guided Platform
- Softer, more responsive PWRRUN foam gives cushioning in every step.
- Centerpath Technology uses a broad base with higher sidewalls that hug the foot and guide it through each step.
- The engineered mesh upper is breathable and stretchy, and it has a 6 mm offset. The women’s pair comes in a wide width.
Walking Shoes for Overweight
4Motion Control Walking Shoe
- Motion control design and a Rollbar stability post reinforce the inside and outside of the midsole to limit rear-foot movement.
- Abzorb cushioning absorbs impact at the heel and forefoot.
- The leather upper holds its shape, and the shoe comes in medium, wide and extra-wide widths.
5
Drew® Men's Force Extra-Depth Strap Walking Shoe
The Drew Force V is an extra-depth walking shoe with an adjustable strap.
- The Plus Fitting System has two removable footbeds, which adds depth and room for an orthotic.
- A tempered steel shank and a heel stabilizer add stability, and the Tri-Support insole has a built-in heel pad.
- A hook-and-loop closure makes the shoe easy to put on, and the Drilex lining manages moisture and odor.
6
Leather Lace-Up Walking Shoe
- The full-grain leather upper keeps its shape.
- Abzorb cushioning in the midsole absorbs impact, and the Walking Strike Path outsole guides a natural heel-to-toe stride.
- It comes in several widths.
7
Vionic® Men's Walker Classic Lace-Up Walking Shoe with Hidden Orthotic
The Vionic Walker Classic is a lace-up walking shoe with a built-in orthotic.
- Full-grain, water-repellent leather forms the upper, and an action lacing system adjusts the fit.
- A concealed orthotic gives arch support.
- The breathable mesh liner has a PU foam base, which reduces friction against the skin.
8
Casual Cross Trainer
- An Abzorb heel crash pad absorbs impact, and a molded insert adds cushioning underfoot.
- The suede upper breaks in to your foot, and dual-density collar foam steadies the ankle.
- A Phantom Liner interior has few seams to rub, and the EVA midsole has an internal shank for midfoot stability.
9
Cushioned Daily Trainer
- A Fresh Foam midsole with bio-based content gives a soft, responsive ride.
- The molded engineered mesh upper breathes well, and the integrated rubber outsole grips on roads, sidewalks and gym floors.
- It weighs about 9.7 oz, and the lace-up closure lets you adjust the fit.
10
Orthofeet® Men's Lava Stretch No-Tie Walking Shoe
The Orthofeet Lava is a no-tie walking shoe with a stretchable, breathable upper.
- The stretchable upper contours to the foot, and Orthofeet says it accommodates bunions, swelling and sensitive spots.
- The seam-free, padded interior removes friction points, and the orthotic insole has arch support and multilayer cushioning.
- The fit is true to size with a wide toe box, and the shoe comes in medium and wide widths.
11
Skechers® Men's Go Walk 6 Slip On Stretch-Fit Slip-On Walking Shoe
The Skechers Go Walk 6 is a slip-on walking shoe with a stretch fit.
- The Air-Cooled Goga Mat insole and Ultra Go cushioning deliver cushioning, and the athletic mesh upper keeps feet cool.
- High-rebound Hyper Pillars and a dual-density traction outsole add stability.
- The stretch-fit design wraps the foot with a sock-like feel for easy slip-on wear.
Dress Shoes for Overweight
12Leather Dress Shoe with Wide Toe Box
- The men’s Avery Island has a supple full-grain leather upper with a wide toe box, which gives the forefoot room.
- The women’s Chelsea is a leather loafer with an adjustable strap that opens on either side and a tongue that flips up for easy entry.
- Both pairs include an orthotic insole with anatomical arch support and multilayer cushioning, and both are true to size.
13
Rockport® Men's Style Leader 2 Lightweight Cushioned Oxford
The Rockport Style Leader 2 is a lightweight lace-up oxford for the office.
- Rockport’s lightweight comfort technology absorbs step shock and cushions the heel.
- The memory foam insole is removable, so you can swap in an orthotic.
- The sole flexes for active days, and Rockport offers extended sizes and widths.
Work Shoes for Overweight
14Roomy Leather Clog
- The men’s XP 2.0 has a leather upper, a padded instep collar and a roomy toe box with plenty of wiggle room.
- A lightweight EVA midsole reduces fatigue and gives stability and shock absorption, and the construction is stapled for durability.
- The women’s Professional is the original Dansko style, with extra shock absorption comparable to athletic shoes.
15
Low Work Shoe with Alloy Toe
- Both pairs have a protective alloy toe. The women’s Santa Fe has asymmetrical aluminum toes, a breathable leather lining and a contoured heel lock.
- The men’s San Antonio has a TPU shank for midfoot support and a dual-density, compression-molded EVA midsole.
- The San Antonio has a non-marking rubber outsole, and the women’s pair comes in a wide width.
16
Crocs® Unisex Classic Clog Easy Slip-On Clog
The Crocs Classic Clog is a lightweight slip-on clog.
- The lightweight, flexible cushioning system wraps the foot, and the material wipes clean.
- A fully enclosed toe guards against spills, and the Crocs Lock tread is made for slick floors.
- The clog meets industry standards, and Crocs notes that it runs large, so size down if you are between sizes.
Trail Shoes for Overweight
17Cushioned Trail Running Shoe
- Rearfoot GEL technology absorbs shock, and the Amplifoam Plus midsole gives a softer ride.
- The mesh upper breathes, and the OrthoLite Hybrid Max Lite sockliner manages moisture and adds cushioning.
- The molded rubber outsole grips. The web notes that the shoe runs small.
Sandals for Overweight
OrthoInfo says a sandal with a cork midsole is more supportive than one with a rubber sole.[4] Choose one with adjustable straps.
18
Birkenstock® Unisex Arizona Adjustable Cork Footbed Sandal
The Birkenstock Arizona is a two-strap sandal with a cork footbed.
- The natural cork footbed molds to the foot over time.
- The EVA outsole cushions each step.
- Two individually adjustable straps with corrosion-resistant buckles let you set the fit. This pair is unisex and comes in regular width.
19
Propet® Men's Daytona Adjustable Wide Sandal
The Propét Daytona is a flat sandal with straps that adjust fully.
- The adjustable straps let you set the fit across the foot.
- It comes in wide widths.
Accessories for Reaching Shoes and Socks for Overweight Men and Women
Reaching your feet is hard for many people. Slip-on shoes help, but if you prefer lace-ups and socks, these three tools do the bending for you. None of them is a shoe.
- Long-Handled Shoe Horn – A long handle with a curved end, so you can slide a shoe on while sitting or standing.
- Elastic Laces – Laces that stretch, so you set them once and put the shoe on and off without untying it.
- Sock Aid – A shell with two long cords. You pull a sock over the shell, slip your foot in and pull the cords to bring the sock up.
20
RMS® Unisex Deluxe Sock Aid Sock Aid with Foam Handles
The RMS Deluxe Sock Aid is a device that holds a sock open so you can put it on without bending down.
- A flexible, contoured plastic shell holds the sock open, and soft foam handles give a non-slip grip.
- The cords are 38 inches long overall, and you can adjust their length by tying new knots.
- It works with regular socks such as ankle, flat, knee, calf-length and athletic socks, not with compression socks.
21
Hickies® Unisex Tie Free No-Tie Elastic Laces
Hickies are elastic no-tie laces that turn lace-up shoes into slip-ons.
- Each set includes 14 water-resistant elastic laces, enough for one pair of shoes.
- You can lace them loose, standard or tight for a custom fit.
- They work with sneakers and most other lace-up shoes.
22
RMS® Unisex Extra Long Handled Shoe Horn Long-Handled Shoe Horn
The RMS Extra Long Handled Shoe Horn is a 24-inch tool for putting on shoes without stooping.
- The 24-inch handle lets you use it while sitting or standing, and the curved handle is easy to grasp.
- The smooth surface slides over the foot and the shoe without snagging.
- It weighs only 3 oz, which helps with weak hand strength, and a strap lets you hang it up. The set has two.
Index Table: Top Rated Shoes for Overweight Men and Women
| No. | Shoe | Men ♂ | Women ♀ | Features | Brand |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | ASICS® - Neutral Cushioned Daily Trainer | ![]() | ![]() |
| ASICS |
| 2 | New Balance® - Motion Control Running Shoe | ![]() | ![]() |
| New Balance |
| 3 | Saucony® - Stability Trainer with Guided Platform | ![]() | ![]() |
| Saucony |
| 4 | New Balance® - Motion Control Walking Shoe | ![]() | ![]() |
| New Balance |
| 6 | New Balance® - Leather Lace-Up Walking Shoe | ![]() | ![]() |
| New Balance |
| 8 | New Balance® - Casual Cross Trainer | ![]() | ![]() |
| New Balance |
| 9 | New Balance® - Cushioned Daily Trainer | ![]() | ![]() |
| New Balance |
| 12 | Orthofeet® - Leather Dress Shoe with Wide Toe Box | ![]() | ![]() |
| Orthofeet |
| 14 | Dansko® - Roomy Leather Clog | ![]() | ![]() |
| Dansko |
| 15 | KEEN Utility® - Low Work Shoe with Alloy Toe | ![]() | ![]() |
| KEEN Utility |
| 17 | ASICS® - Cushioned Trail Running Shoe | ![]() | ![]() |
| ASICS |
| No. | Shoe | Image | Features | Brand |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | Drew Men's Force - Extra-Depth Strap Walking Shoe | ![]() |
| Drew |
| 7 | Vionic Men's Walker Classic - Lace-Up Walking Shoe with Hidden Orthotic | ![]() |
| Vionic |
| 10 | Orthofeet Men's Lava - Stretch No-Tie Walking Shoe | ![]() |
| Orthofeet |
| 11 | Skechers Men's Go Walk 6 Slip On - Stretch-Fit Slip-On Walking Shoe | ![]() |
| Skechers |
| 13 | Rockport Men's Style Leader 2 - Lightweight Cushioned Oxford | ![]() |
| Rockport |
| 16 | Crocs Unisex Classic Clog - Easy Slip-On Clog | ![]() |
| Crocs |
| 18 | Birkenstock Unisex Arizona - Adjustable Cork Footbed Sandal | ![]() |
| Birkenstock |
| 19 | Propet Men's Daytona - Adjustable Wide Sandal | ![]() |
| Propet |
| 20 | RMS Unisex Deluxe Sock Aid - Sock Aid with Foam Handles | ![]() |
| RMS |
| 21 | Hickies Unisex Tie Free - No-Tie Elastic Laces | ![]() |
| Hickies |
| 22 | RMS Unisex Extra Long Handled Shoe Horn - Long-Handled Shoe Horn | ![]() |
| RMS |
In Conclusion
A shoe with room, cushioning and stability does a lot of work for heavier feet, and walking is one of the easiest ways to get more active.[5] Fit your shoes at the end of the day, choose a wide width when you need one, and replace them when the cushioning is gone.[3][4] See a doctor or podiatrist if your foot or joint pain does not go away.
Sources
- National Health Service (NHS). Osteoarthritis. Accessed October 26, 2026.
- American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (OrthoInfo). Plantar Fasciitis and Bone Spurs. Accessed October 26, 2026.
- American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (OrthoInfo). Athletic Shoes. Accessed October 26, 2026.
- American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (OrthoInfo). Shoes: Finding the Right Fit. Accessed October 26, 2026.
- National Health Service (NHS). Walking for health. Accessed October 26, 2026.
Update History
- Oct 2026: Rewrote the article around NHS and OrthoInfo guidance, replaced every unavailable shoe and accessory with in-stock models (current ASICS Cumulus 28 and Gel-Venture 11, Saucony Guide 19, New Balance 577, 608 and Fresh Foam 680 v9, and others), removed the Propet Commuterlite and New Balance MT690v2 because no pair is in stock, switched several pairs to men’s-only entries where the women’s pair is out of stock, fixed typos and added a Key Specs table and sources
- Sep 2014: Added Drew Force
- Jun 2014: Published

































































