What To Look For
Know your foot type. Foot types consist of normal, high arch and low arch. You also need to understand the way your foot moves. Movement types include normal, overpronation and underpronation. Overweight individuals often have low arches, or flat feet, and tend to overpronate or roll their feet inward when running. Motion control running shoes are designed to provide the support required by heavier runners. Look for motion control running shoes designed with a firm midsole and robust heel and arch design.
Common Pitfalls
Overweight runners should avoid running shoes that are lightweight, flexible and feature a soft cushioned midsole. Lightweight and very flexible shoes are not designed to provide the motion control and stability required by heavier runners. Shoes with a softly cushioned midsole may not provide the shock absorption necessary to minimize the impact caused by each foot strike when running. Avoid buying shoes that are not designed specifically for running.
Where To Buy
Stores that specialize in running shoes and apparel can help you find the right running shoe for your foot type. Many running stores provide a free running gait analysis to help you determine how much you pronate when running. Sporting goods stores are another good resource for finding running shoes. Some running specialty stores and online running shoe stores such as Road Runner Sports guarantee that your running shoes will fit just right or you can exchange them for another pair.
Cost
You should expect to spend between $75 and $150 for a pair of motion control running shoes designed to provide the support required by heavier runners. Some of the shoes identified by the American Academy of Podiatric Sports Medicine as providing the extra stability required by overweight runners include Asics Gel Foundation 8 and Asics Gel-Evolution 5----which both retail for about $90--and New Balance 1123, which can cost $150.
Insider Tips
Try on several different brands of motion control or stability running shoes before deciding on the shoe that is best for you. Make sure to check with the retailer you are working with to see if they provide any guarantee that allows you to exchange the shoes for another pair if the shoes aren't providing the support you need. The American Podiatric Medical Association and American Academy of Podiatric Sports Medicine websites both feature a list of approved footwear for running and other sports.
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