10 Best Walking Shoes For Overweight Walkers 2025 in the United States

The Skechers Women's Go Walk Joy Sneaker is a suitable option for overweight walkers, thanks to its thoughtful design and features aimed at enhancing comfort during walks. One of its standout strengths is the lightweight and responsive 5Gen midsole cushioning, which provides excellent shock absorption, making it easier on the joints. The Air Cooled Goga Mat insole adds an extra layer of comfort with high-rebound cushioning, ensuring a pleasant walking experience, especially for those who may need more support. The breathable engineered mesh upper promotes airflow, helping to keep your feet cool and dry, which is important for longer walks.

In terms of fit, the sneaker's soft fabric lining offers a snug yet comfortable feel, catering to various foot shapes. The flexible traction outsole enhances grip, providing stability on different surfaces, an essential feature for heavier walkers. Plus, the machine washable design makes maintenance simple, which can be a big plus for active individuals.

While it excels in cushioning and breathability, some users might find that the arch support isn't as robust as needed for those with specific foot issues. Additionally, while the sneaker is crafted with vegan materials, those looking for a more traditional leather option might be disappointed. The durability is decent, but heavy usage on rough terrains might wear them down quicker than expected.

The Brooks Women’s Ghost Max 2 Neutral Running & Walking Shoe is designed with the needs of overweight walkers in mind, offering several features that cater to comfort and stability. A standout strength of this shoe is its protective cushioning, thanks to the nitrogen-infused DNA Loft v3 midsole foam. This cushioning provides a soft, smooth ride, reducing impact on joints, which can be particularly beneficial for heavier individuals. The broad base and raised sidewalls enhance stability, ensuring secure landings that don’t disrupt your natural stride.

Another highlight is the GlideRoll Rocker transition technology, which encourages smooth heel-to-toe transitions, making walks feel effortless. This is especially advantageous for those who may struggle with mobility or fatigue during longer periods of walking. Additionally, the shoe accommodates various foot shapes and orthotics, promoting a fit that supports different needs.

On the flip side, while the Ghost Max 2 excels in cushioning and stability, it may not be the most breathable option, particularly for those who walk in warm climates. The materials used, while durable, might retain heat, leading to discomfort during extended use. Also, the shoe's weight—around 1.5 pounds—might be perceived as heavy by some users, although this is often a trade-off for the added stability and cushioning. In terms of versatility, the Ghost Max 2 is great for both running and walking. However, those purely seeking walking shoes may find cheaper alternatives that offer similar levels of comfort without the running features. The Brooks Women’s Ghost Max 2 is a solid choice for overweight walkers looking for cushioning and stability, but users should consider their specific needs regarding breathability and weight before making a purchase.

The Ryka Women's Devotion X Walking Shoe is specifically designed to meet the needs of overweight walkers who prioritize comfort and support during their fitness activities. One of the standout features is its full-length RE-ZORB cushioning, which offers excellent shock absorption and impact protection. This is particularly beneficial for heavier individuals, as it helps reduce stress on the joints during walking. The additional cushioning in the forefoot and heel enhances comfort, making long walks more enjoyable.

The shoe’s design takes into account the unique shape of a woman’s foot, featuring a narrower heel and a roomier toe box, which provides a comfortable fit. The ACTIVfoam EVA midsole adds another layer of soft cushioning, ensuring stability, which is essential for preventing injuries during exercise.

On the durability front, the eight-piece rubber sole provides decent grip, and the built-in compression channels help with shock absorption, contributing to the shoe’s performance in various walking conditions. Moreover, its synthetic fabric is machine washable, making maintenance easy. While the cushioning is great for impact protection, some users might find it a bit too soft and lacking in support for longer distances or uneven surfaces. Additionally, the fit may not be suitable for everyone; individuals with wider feet could experience discomfort due to the narrower design. The shoe offers breathability but may not be as effective in hot weather, depending on the thickness of the fabric. It is best suited for walkers looking for a reliable shoe for fitness activities rather than casual wear.