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Best Running Shoes for Heavy Runners in 2024
This guide is not only for overweight people: for the purpose of this article we consider heavy runners men that are heavier than 80kg/180 lbs and women heavier than 70kg/155 lbs.
You can be a 85kg man, tall, and be in an amazing shape. Not fat - but heavier in the context of buying running shoes.
While running, your joints will have to sustain anything between 3 and 5 times your bodyweight with each step. Good form and proper running shoes are important for all runners, but even more so for runners at a higher weight.
Since 2009 we buy, test and review more than 120 pairs of shoes per year. This is our selection of the best running shoes for heavier runners in 2024.
Table of content
The 5 Best Running Shoes for Heavier Runners
Best for Daily Training
Best Supportive Daily Trainers
Best for Fast Training
Best for Trail Running
Best for Racing
What to consider
As for any other kind of running shoe, the first thing to consider is what will you be using these shoes for?
Different types of shoes for different purposes
- Daily Trainer: if you only have one running shoe to do all your running in, this should be your daily trainer. These are neutral, comfortable, versatile and durable shoes that will take you through most (of all) of your training.
- Supportive Daily Trainer: many runners, me included, have weak ankles that wobble while running. This is risky because at best you are not cushioning your stride properly and at worst (as it happened to me more than once) you might end up spraining your ankles. Choose a supportive daily trainer if you want one shoe for most of your running, and you want a shoe that will support and protect you.
- Fast Trainer: fast trainers are running shoes that are either lighter or more responsive (usually both) than a daily trainer – but cheaper and more durable than a proper racing shoe.
- Trail Running: this is self-explanatory, but if you run off-road you need shoes that focus on things like traction (you don’t want to slip on wet surface or rocks), protection (a protruding stick should not puncture your foot) and comfort.
- Racing: Many people run their races (half and full marathons) in their daily trainers or fast trainers. It’s understandable: they are the shoes you know best and you don’t want surprises during your 26.2 mile race… But if you are an experienced runners and you are trying to beat your PB… these shoes can definitely help you do that.
2 More Things to Consider
- Comfort and Fit: Comfort is the absolute most important factor when choosing a pair of running shoes. Make sure they are nice and snug on your heel and mid-foot (based on preference) and that you have enough room for your toes. Remember your foot can swell up to a size higher when running.
- Responsive vs Plush Cushion: We rate cushion on a scale of “responsive to plush”, where responsive is a snappy feeling of energy return and plush is the softest feeling. Responsive is usually better for going fast, plush is better for going long. But overall, it’s a matter of preferences.
Now let’s see which shoes we recommend. For each category we have the best running shoe, then a runner-up and a “also consider” option.
Best for Daily Training
Our daily trainer criteria stays the same: we are looking for good neutral shoes with great comfort and durability - but with the twist of adding extra cushioning.
Luckily in 2024 high-cushion shoes don't need to weigh a ton anymore!
The winner
In short
The Nike Vomero 17 is a good, premium trainer that delivers a cushioned, stable ride. It has a balanced ride suitable for most types of runs. While it isn't as exciting as some of the other premium trainers, it excels in outsole durability. Version 17 is an improvement over version 16. It has a plusher, more energetic ride with smoother transitions due to the removal of the outdated Zoom airbag.Pros
- Smoother ride due to the removal of the airbag
- Lighter than previous version
- Extremely durable outsole
- Softer ride
Cons
- Warm upper due to the inner sleeve
- Price has increased
Who should buy it
If you’re a runner looking for a more modern, more engaging Pegasus, the Vomero 17 is the shoe for you. The ZoomX in its midsole gives it a much more exciting ride than the boring Pegasus ride.
Who should not buy it
If you’re looking for a similar ride to the Pegasus Turbo 2, you should skip the Vomero 17 because it’s much heavier and not as fast. The Vomero 17 is more of a daily trainer than a shoe you can use for speedwork.
Main Specs
Rating breakdown
Team review
While the Nike Pegasus is Nike's staple daily trainer - many people think that it's versatile and comfortable, but a little "uninspiring". The Vomero 17 is the Pegasus "on steroids", with better comfort, energy return and overall exciting ride. Read full reviewRunner up
In short
The Saucony Triumph 21 is a daily trainer that can log all the miles you want to throw at it. This shoe is designed to take a pounding and make you feel comfortable the whole time, and it hits the mark.Pros
- Incredibly comfortable in all running situations
- Enough traction for all runs in all conditions
- Lots of energy return on the toe-off
- Well proportioned last
- Breathable upper that flexes with each step
Cons
- The cushion can be too bouncy for all-day wear if you stand a lot
- If you land extreme end of heel, the cushion becomes unstable
Who should buy it
This shoe is designed for any daily runner who wants high cushion. Bigger, or smaller runners would benefit from it as it provides cushion and is not too heavy.
Who should not buy it
There is absolutely no stability features in this shoe, so anyone who needs any type of stability — especially with a high-stack and high-bounce sole unit.
Main Specs
Rating breakdown
Team review
One of the absolute best shoes of last year, the Triumph 21 has a soft, plush ride but also a good amount of energy return in a package that is not that heavy to start with. Read full reviewAlso consider
In short
The New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080 v13 is a highly cushioned daily trainer that will feel soft and bouncy on your feet. It’s a great all-around shoe that can handle high mileage along with the occasional speedier runs.Pros
- High cushioning
- Comfortable and bouncy ride
- Soft upper
Cons
- Not stable
Who should buy it
This is a shoe for just about any runner. If you’re looking for a daily trainer that can handle just about any kind of run than look no further.
Who should not buy it
The only person that might not like this shoe is someone who is looking for a some stability. This is a shoe that has very little stability to it so it can make you feel a little unsettled on uneven terrain or tight turns.
Main Specs
Rating breakdown
Team review
The softest of these three, the 1080 V13 is not the best choice for runners who need stability or runners who want to go fast... but if comfort is what you are looking for, the 1080 V13 has it in spades. Read full reviewBest Supportive Daily Trainers
Modern stability running shoes are not the clunky, rigid and heavy monsters that they used to be. Here's a selection of three stability running shoes with high cushion that are perfect for heavier runners who need some extra support in their stride.
The winner
In short
The ASICS Kayano 30 is a top-tier stability trainer. Drawing inspiration from other ASICS offerings the Kayano has been completely rebuilt for its 30th edition. The result is an adaptable and stable shoe that provides comfort mile after mile. This overhaul continues Kayano’s run as one of the leaders of the stability field.Pros
- 4d Guidance System
- Completely Rebuilt
- Adaptive Stablity
Cons
- Midfoot tightness
Who should buy it
A runner who wants a rebuilt Eco-friendly stability trainer ready to take them through any training plan.
Who should not buy it
Main Specs
Rating breakdown
Team review
It's not secret that the Kayano 30 is one of my favorite updates of 2023. Asics brought its arguably most popular shoe into the new millennium and I will keep recommending it to people until a better version comes out! Read full reviewRunner up
In short
The HOKA ONE ONE Gaviota 5 offers top comfort and support, with an ultra-wide base and one of the brand’s highest stack heights, yet has dropped almost an ounce from previous models. This latest Gaviota offers an enhanced stability, accommodating fit, comfort, lower weight, and a more smooth transition through the footplant over the past two models.Pros
- Wide, plush base
- Comfortable, secure fit
- Large heel loop
- More accommodating toe box
- Lighter than previous
Cons
- Moderate outsole durability
- Price
Who should buy it
Gaviota’s updated midsole supports runners who supinate (run on the outside of the foot) as well as overpronate (roll excessively in) and is especially suited for long and recovery runs; it is also a great shoe for walkers and those on their feet all day who need supportive shoes.
Who should not buy it
Though Gaviota is lighter than in the past, it is not best for speed-focused runs or runners who prefer a light, quick feel underfoot. The midsole support is helpful for non-neutral runners, this outsole is not the most durable option for those with heavy wear patterns.
Main Specs
Rating breakdown
Team review
The Gaviota is the high-stability option from Hoka. This shoe is extremely interesting for the runners that are intrigued by Hoka's plush cushion but were afraid that the high stack height could be too unstable. Get the Gaviota 5 and experience the best of both worlds. Read full reviewAlso consider
In short
The Brooks Launch GTS 10 continues to be a lightweight, supportive shoe with a fast feel with few changes in ride from the last model; most upper modifications enhance look and function. The medium-high levels of cushion, stability, and durability make it a wise buy for the price.Pros
- Smooth ride
- Comfortably-snug fit
- Light & Breathable
- Sleek, revamped look with enhanced function
- Reasonable price
Cons
- Loss of double hole on second-to-top lacing
- Lower reflectivity
Who should buy it
Buy Launch GTS 10 for light stability and low weight if your build and form are somewhat easy on shoes. This shoe shines in speedwork yet without the stiffness or price of a plate or rods, with balanced cushion for comfortable medium-length runs.
Who should not buy it
Do not choose this shoe if you have high motion control needs or prefer plush cushion to a responsive ride. This is not the shoe for runners who want a wide, solid feel below the heel or for heavy over-pronators.
Main Specs
Rating breakdown
Team review
We chose the Launch over the Adrenaline (or Beast/Ariel) because it has a faster feel but still delivering great cushion and support. Read full reviewBest for Fast Training
Just because you are heavier than the average (elite) runner it doesn't mean you can't or shouldn't go fast!
These three running shoes are great options for increasing the pace while still enjoying max cushion!
The winner
In short
The Adidas Adizero Prime X 2 Strung is a superb but heavy multi-purpose racer/trainer which can handle intervals, tempo, long runs & races. It has a very high toe-spring with an effective rocker that helps you increase your pace. Version 2 has a wider base which results in much better stability. It also has a softer forefoot with more stack height in the front but it has gained 1.4 oz (40 g) in weight.Pros
- More stable than previous versions
- High level of speed assistance
- Slightly softer ride
- Deep cushioning
- Great grip
Cons
- Less durable outsole
- Big weight increase
- Heavily overpriced
Who should buy it
If you already own the Adidas Adios Pro 3 and you’re looking for something with more cushioning and more speed assistance, the Prime X 2 Strung is the shoe for you.
Who should not buy it
If you’re looking for a light racer with a natural ride, the Prime X 2 Strung is a shoe that you should pass on.
Main Specs
Rating breakdown
Team review
Here is a shoe that is highly cushioned and fast. It could double up as a racer to be honest - fast and plush, what's not to like? Read full reviewRunner up
In short
The Kinvara Pro is an exciting new, stiff speed trainer with a carbon plate. It performs well at a variety of paces due to its stable ride and its snappy forefoot. It’s a great training companion for the Endorphin Pro and Elite if you want a similar ride at a cheaper price point. While it doesn’t have as much bounce or energy return as other speed trainers, it still has a fast, propulsive ride.Pros
- Stiff ride, similar to the Saucony racers
- Stable ride for such a thick midsole
- Energy-saving forefoot rocker
- Comfortable upper
- Highly cushioned
Cons
- Midsole foams feel a bit flat
- Low outsole durability
- Narrow fit
Who should buy it
If you find the Endorphin Speed 3 too soft or flexible for speed training, the Kinvara Pro is a good option which delivers a more similar feel to the Saucony super shoes. It has a more stable, snappier ride.
Who should not buy it
If you prefer minimal rides with a lot of ground feel, look elsewhere because the Kinvara Pro is a firm, maximalist trainer. If you like flexible, natural rides, the Kivara Pro is also not for you.
Main Specs
Rating breakdown
Team review
Saucony managed to introduce the Kinvara Pro this year: a more modern, plated option for their popular minimalist trainer which will help runners go faster. Read full reviewAlso consider
In short
The Adidas Adizero Adios 8 is a lightweight shoe that can be used for fast workouts and racing. While it doesn’t have the same energy return as the Adidas Adios Pro 3, the brand’s carbon-plated shoes, they do a great job of disappearing on your feet while giving you a great ride on your fast run.Pros
- Lightweight
- Smooth, fast ride
- Great outsole grip
- Very breathable upper
Cons
- Laces can become untied
- Slightly long
- Low durability
Who should buy it
This is a great shoe for anyone looking for an alternative to the carbon plated shoes for either fast workouts or for shorter distance race (5k/10k or less). If you’re looking for something that complements your stride and encourages you to pick up the pace, this is the shoe for you!
Who should not buy it
If you’re looking for a shoe with energy return, good support, and decent cushioning, then this shoe isn’t for you. If you are looking for a shoe that will last 250+ miles, I’m not certain that this shoe will do that nor will can this shoe be your everyday trainer.
Main Specs
Rating breakdown
Team review
This is a great shoe for anyone looking for an alternative to the carbon plated shoes for either fast workouts or for shorter distance race (5k/10k or less). If you’re looking for something that complements your stride and encourages you to pick up the pace, this is the shoe for you! Read full reviewBest for Trail Running
Running on trails is usually softer than running on concrete. For this reason you don't have to focus on cushioning as much as you would do for a road shoe.
Here are our three favorites:
The winner
In short
The HOKA Stinson 7 provides an exceptionally stable, reliable, highly cushioned ride for road to non-technical trails. For everyday training or longer efforts where the terrain varies between roads, grass, and gravel, the Stinson 7 goes the distance in plush comfort.Pros
- Exceptionally stable on road and non-technical terrain
- Plush cushioning
- High stack protects from underfoot hazards
Cons
- Subpar agility in tight spaces and on rocks
- Outsole can get slippery on rock when wet
- Break-in period may be required before optimal comfort
Who should buy it
For a road-to-trail runner or non-technical trail runner or hiker looking for a stable, maximalist shoe to go the distance in comfort.
Who should not buy it
Trail runners who primarily run on technical, uneven terrain with tight rocks where a lot of agility is required or speed is the focus.
Main Specs
Rating breakdown
Team review
While not the most technical Hoka trail shoe, there are not many terrains that the Stinson cannot dominate. If you are looking for a shoe you can easily take from road to trail, while being cushioned and protected all the way - look no further. Read full reviewRunner up
In short
The Voyage NITRO 3 are redesigned, lighter and filled with Puma technology. They are an optimal all-weather, all-season trainer with plenty of cushion and grip to tackle any type of terrain you may encounter.Pros
- Ultra durable
- Superior quality
- Great for winter conditions
Cons
- Narrow toebox
- Not breathable for hot conditions
Who should buy it
Anyone looking for a stylish trail shoe that checks several boxes should consider the Voyage NITRO 3s. Whether you’re training, racing, hiking or just enjoying outdoor adventures, this shoe will not disappoint.
Who should not buy it
I’d steer clear of these sneakers if you’re looking for a firm, low profile, racing shoe. Also, due to the all season upper material, they might be a bit warm for hot summer days.
Main Specs
Rating breakdown
Team review
In the end, there are a few things that stand out to me about the Voyage NITRO 3s that would cause me to choose them over many other trail shoes. The build quality and materials are superior to many shoes on the market. They have ample protection for rugged trails and other outdoor adventures. Lastly, they are surprisingly light for being a max cushion shoe. If you haven’t checked out the Voyage NITRO 3s, I suggest you do! Read full reviewAlso consider
In short
This new Caldera Takes what the Catamount and Cascadia aren’t to create a shoe that is a bruiser, and fully focused on comfort, protection, and distance. The Caldera is a great shoe for long running days and ultra distance efforts on moderate and below trails.Pros
- Bottomless cushion and protection
- Lively and smooth ride
- Extremely broad and stable
- Excellent road behavior
Cons
- Wide platform is not well suited for technical terrain
- Heavy
- Voluminous upper.
Who should buy it
The Caldera 6 is a great shoe for the runner that loves a door to trail option that provides a responsive and protective ride for long miles.
Who should not buy it
Runners with a narrower foot or those wanting a maximal shoe that works well on technical terrain.
Main Specs
Rating breakdown
Team review
With the Caldera 6 Brooks has decently upped its game against many of the max cushioned commanders. The Caldera is a great choice for daily training especially on moderate terrain that is more focused on distance or duration. While many may argue because of their weight I believe these would be a great 100 mile distance type of shoe. Currently I have not found a maximal shoe that even comes close to the energy, responsiveness, and stability of the Caldera 6 . Read full reviewBest for Racing
These are the so-called "super shoes": carbon-plated, ultra light and cushioned just the right amount, their purpose is not to last you a long time, but simply to run your race as fast as you can (and also a little faster).
The winner
In short
The Nike ZoomX Vaporfly 3 is a soft, bouncy super shoe best suited to marathons. It doesn't offer as much speed assistance as other top tier carbon racers because of its gentle forefoot rocker but it's incredibly lightweight and extremely comfortable. Version 3 has been improved in a number of areas including stability, cushioning and weight. The forefoot is softer so it doesn't feel as fast as the Vaporfly 2 but its ride is plusher and it has more long-distance comfort.Pros
- Increase in cushioning
- Stability improvement
- More comfortable fit
- Better breathability
- Lighter weight
Cons
- Less aggressive toe spring than competitors
- Low durability
Who should buy it
If you’re looking for a super shoe with an accommodating fit and a super lightweight build, the Vaporfly 3 is an excellent choice. It has good stability and a soft, propulsive ride.
Who should not buy it
If you want a really durable super shoe that you can use for training as well as racing, the Vaporfly 3 is not for you- its ZoomX foam is extremely soft and delicate.
Main Specs
Rating breakdown
Team review
Third version of the original super-shoe, the Vaporfly is nicely cushioned and has a comfortable fit that will suit many runners. Also, great value for money (if you can say so of a super shoe). Read full reviewRunner up
In short
The Hoka Rocket X 2 is a top-tier marathon racer with a soft, energetic ride. It has smooth, stable transitions and a stiff carbon plate for speed assistance. Version 2 is a vast improvement over the original version although it comes in at a higher weight and a much higher price.Pros
- Aggressive plate placement
- Increase in energy return
- Increase in cushioning
- Relatively stable ride
Cons
- Forked plate results in less propulsion
- Weight increase over v1
- Huge price increase
Who should buy it
This racer is recommended for runners looking for a very soft super shoe which can handle long-distances. The Rocket X 2 is for runners looking for a propulsive alternative to the Vaporfly 2 & Adios Pro 3 which has more stability.
Who should not buy it
If you prefer a firm racer with a lightweight build, the Rocket X 2 is not the shoe for you. It’s not one of the lighter super shoes and its soft ride is built for long-distance comfort.
Main Specs
Rating breakdown
Team review
One of our favorite Hoka shoes of all time - here's an extremely versatile fast trainer that is very much at ease on race day. Read full reviewAlso consider
In short
The ASICS Superblast is a versatile, maximalist trainer without a carbon plate. It's a pricey option for those wanting a racer but who don't like carbon plates or for those wanting a speed trainer but find the Magic Speed 2 too firm. It's a distant cousin of the Novablast 3 but it's lighter, more cushioned and has a smoother ride.Pros
- Super smooth transitions
- Highly cushioned ride
- Excellent stability
- Lightweight
Cons
- No trampoline-like bounce
- Outsole picks up stones
- Heavy price tag
Who should buy it
If you’re a runner who loves the Novablast 3 but you want a smoother ride with more cushioning and stability, the Superblast is the shoe for you. The Superblast is also for those wanting a versatile trainer/racer which can be used for virtually every type of run.
Who should not buy it
If you want a soft ride with a high level of speed assistance, the Superblast is not for you. It doesn’t have a carbon plate so it’s not as propulsive as a conventional super shoe.
Main Specs
Rating breakdown
Team review
A true shoe that "can do it all", especially for heavier runners. Go on long runs, on fast training days and on your marathon of choice! Read full reviewQuick Questions you might have
Even though it has exceptions, calculating your BMI is an easy way to see if you are under or over weight. BMI takes your weight and compares it to your height - the resulting number will indicate where you sit on a scale from seriously underweight to obese.
Running can definitely help you with your weight loss goals - but no amount of running (especially in the beginning) will out-do a bad diet. It's easier to not eat 100 kcal than it is to burn them through running.
A rule of thumb is 100 kcal for each mile run (whatever the speed). Take this with a grain of salt, but it's a decent indication.