Best Running Shoes For Heavy Men - A Practical And Insightful Guide

A Guide To Buying Running Shoes For Heavy Men

Finding running shoes that mold perfectly to your feet may look like an easy task, at first glance - but it is not. With so many options on the market, we can feel a little overwhelmed at times.

To help you find the perfect running shoes, we have put together this guide to buying running shoes for heavy men. Here you'll find the best tips and explanations for deliberating between running shoes.

1. Parts of running shoes

 (i) Upper of the running shoe

This part is called Upper and covers the foot to ensure a comfortable and secure fit. At the same time, it provides stability at the moment of executing each stride.

• Fabric - The fabric is the part of the Upper that is usually a mesh of synthetic materials or braided yarns. This fabric provides comfort to your feet and gives the feeling of a soft sock.
• Cover - It can have more than one layer and provides support and visibility thanks to the reflective materials.
• Tongue - This element protects the instep of your feet with the laces of your shoes. It also keeps dirt out. On the other hand, the reinforced ones fit better, but are more difficult to put on, unlike the ones attached to the side.
• Toe cap - It protects your toes from any injury and should provide them with enough space. This will minimize friction between the toes and the shoes and thus avoid painful blisters.
• Heel Pad - It is a piece of plastic or fabric that offers the perfect support for your feet. It can be internal or external.

(ii) Midsole

This is the core of the shoe and it is the area where the sole and the liner into which the foot fits. Its main function is to provide cushioning, transition, protection and stability. They are usually made of the following rubbers.

• EVA (Ethylene Vinyl Acetate) - This is the standard material used in running shoes since the 1970's, also known by the term Foamy. EVA materials are soft, flexible and very economical. However, they tend to become stiff in cold weather, in addition to gradually compressing with mileage and losing their ability to rebound.
•   PU (Polyurethane) - Polyurethane is a polymer that reacts less than EVA. That is to say, it is more resistant to temperature and rebound much more. But it weighs 50% more than the previous material.
•  TPU - Some specialized companies usually fuse thermoplastic polyurethane beads to obtain a variant that functions as a more flexible, durable and rebounding foam. However, it weighs more than PU.
• PEBAX (Polyether amide block) - This material is a block copolymer obtained by polycondensation of chemical components. It maintains its flexibility and energy return in cold conditions. It is one of the most recommended rubbers, because it is 20% lighter than TPU rubber.
•   Air chambers - Many companies have opted to replace the rubber with an inner tube, to avoid rubber weight, wear and deformity. They therefore opted for gas-based compounds that would cushion more and keep their shape longer.

(iii) Sole

This is the bottom part of the shoe, usually made of solid rubber, air-injected rubber or a combination of both. Rubber is usually more durable, but air-injected rubber is usually more flexible and cushioned.

The sole is the key element to differentiate between running and trail running shoes. Running shoes usually have a flatter tread with flexible grooves. Trail running shoes have a more aggressive lug pattern with better grip. Here are the parts that make up the sole:

•  Footbridge or shank - This element is located between the heel area and the forefoot. It reduces torsion and provides stability.
•  Beveled heel - As the name implies, it involves the heel part and comes rounded or angled. It reduces impact and allows for a soft landing.
•  Hardened plate - These pieces are protective for mountain, rocky or complicated areas. They are part of the footprint left by the shoes.
• Separated heel - This is a split piece that absorbs the impact of your heels on the pavement or any smooth surface.

(iv) Other components of running shoes

• Last - This is the manufacturer's mold that mimics the shape of the foot. These can be curved, semi-curved or straight. In running shoes it is very common for the last to be curved, since it provides more support to the arch of the foot.
• Drop - It can also be called heel offset and it is the difference in height between the front and back of the shoe. For training purposes it can be between 8 and 10 mm. Since a 0 to 4mm drop provides a natural position. Keep in mind that if you have a high drop and decide to change to a lower one. This could cause tendon or muscle pain – this is the opinion of some runners.
• Mid Wedge - This is a firm foam wedge that is located under the ankle, right in the midsole of the shoe. This piece is responsible for distributing the forces of the foot as you run, thus reducing the impact on the ankles.
• Guide strips - These are located on the sides of the shoe, inside the midsole. Their main function is to synchronize the rotation of the ankle and knee, which provides support and increases running efficiency.
• Energy Return - This is the amount of rebound or spring from the shoe when the foot hits the ground. Keep in mind that the higher you go, the more rebound you will feel. This energy return functions as an impulse to project the next stride. However, you must take into account factors that we will discuss later in this guide.

2. What factors to consider when choosing running for heavy and overweight men

We should not get carried away by the best-looking or most fashionable shoes or those that appeal to us for various reasons. We should choose the shoes that best suit our needs.

It is definitely worth taking the time to get the right information. Running shoes play an important role in absorbing the impact of the feet against the ground. Here are some essential factors:

(i) Cushioning

You should make sure that the shoes you buy have good cushioning, since these must withstand stress and remain comfortable over long distances. They should also be durable so that you will not need to buy another pair frequently

Long distances are demanding. Therefore, the midsole must absorb the maximum foot impact during a run,

(ii) Lightweight

All elements are designed to be constructed with the lightest materials, the lighter the shoe model, and the more beneficial for the runner. However, it is not necessary to be so critical if it is only a short daily routine, but at the time of a competition it becomes extremely important.

(iii) Breathability

Sweat emanating from the feet can be counterproductive for the runner. Since, the sweat runs down our own body and legs which results in discomfort.

It is of utmost importance that the material covering the shoes is able to breathe easily. The drier the feet are, the less discomfort there will be. During a long training session, it is best to keep your feet cool.

(iv) Stability

Running shoes should be stable. They must guarantee you a correct stride - so that, when the foot falls with all its weight, it will remain stable and not give way under any circumstances.

There are models of shoes that integrate extra elements to enhance this stability. They are known as pronator shoes, and they usually present an excess of thrust towards the inside of the foot when supporting it. This will help to control your footsteps.

(v) Grip and traction

Having a shoe that slips or slides when in contact with the ground can cause an unfavourable situation when running, especially, on surfaces such as dirt, curves or paint on crosswalks.

In addition, the shoes must have good traction to push the body forward and execute the next stride. So having a good Grip will bring essential benefits for workouts.

(vi) Support

The mesh that envelops the foot is lightweight and breathable, but it is flimsy. That's why running shoes are lined with synthetic leather, heat seals and other materials.  These materials keep your feet tight to the shoes, which will improve support.

(vii)  Durability 

In addition to all the materials and technologies that make up running shoes. They must be able to withstand pressure for long periods of time. Durability involves more factors than just the number of kilometers run. For this reason, you must take into account that the hours of training also play an important role.

(viii) waterproof

If you usually run in a humid and water-filled environment, it may be necessary to take this aspect into account. Waterproofing ensures durability and the other aspects mentioned above.

(ix) Elastic memory

This elastic memory makes the shoes adapt better to your feet. So they provide even more comfort when running. On the other hand, it can also prevent injuries.

3. How to choose the perfect running shoes for men

Since we showed aspects with which the shoes must have at a general level. In this section, we will show you what factors you should take into account, based on your physical characteristics:

• Weight - Not all shoes are capable of supporting a certain amount of weight. So you should keep this factor in mind. Especially if you have a heavier, overweight or sturdier build.
• Injuries - There are multiple injuries; therefore, there are many shoes that adapt according to each injury. That is to say, if you have plantar fasciitis, ligament discomfort or any other foot injury, you should take this factor into account.
• Flexibility and fitness - This factor directly influences your running shoes. If you don't have good flexibility and fitness, you will have to buy shoes with more cushioning and stability.
• Arch height - If you have a high arch, buying shoes with a low arch may affect performance and comfort. Vice versa, if you have a low arch, you should not buy shoes with a high arch.
•  Foot width - There are several sizes to choose the width of the shoe. Normally for women, who tend to have narrow feet, the best option is usually size B. On the other hand, for men with wide feet there is size 2E and up to size 4E and D for women.
• The size -The foot usually has some swelling when it is subjected to physical training. Therefore, it is essential to give it a size margin, half a size would be enough. Please keep in mind that different brands of sneakers have different sizes. This means that, if you buy a size in a specific brand, it does not mean that the other brands have the same size of shoes.

4. Differences between running shoes and trail running shoes

There is no one best option. Rather, each shoe has a different function, while the running shoes are for running on asphalt or road surfaces. Trail running shoes work for running in natural environments, such as uneven and hostile surfaces.

To know which type of shoe is best for you. You should know your daily routine very well, in order to adapt to each environment. Normally, trail running shoes Mountain requires a different composition. Therefore, if you wear running shoes, you will not be able to prevent stones or water from entering.

5. Types of footsteps

There are three different types of footsteps, and each shoe according to this factor. It is necessary to identify which type of footprint you have, in order to purchase shoes with the appropriate correction:

 (i) Neutral

This is a flat footprint, which usually has support in the front, heel and midfoot, because it is straight and weight is better distributed. Since the support of the feet is evenly distributed, both on the outside and on the inside of the foot.

(ii) Supinator

In this case, the foot is cavus and the support of the heel and forefoot can be observed. Normally, people with this type of footprint tend to stick their ankles outwards.

(iii) Pronator

This is the opposite of the supinator. And you may notice a flat foot, where the ankles are pulled inward. This type of stride can lead to sprained ankles and other injuries.

How do I know what type of stride I have?

The easiest way to recognize your stride type is the wear and tear on your shoes. In the case of pronator runners, the wear is on the inside of the sole. We can see it in the area of the big toe and on the inside of the heel.

On the other hand, supinator runners usually have wear on the outside of the sole. And it can be seen on the little toe, as well as on the outside of the heel.

Neutral runners show wear in the forefoot and rearfoot area in a centered manner. The sides of the feet are not affected to any great extent. However, if you have any doubts, it is recommended that you consult a podiatrist.

What Is A Good Pace For A Beginner Runner 

As a beginner runner, you don’t want to exhaust yourself too much. There’s always the pressure to run more, do more, but this can end up being a huge challenge. That is why you want to really take your time and find the right pace. Even if it does require some experimentation, in the end you can achieve some cool results and the experience will be an amazing one.

A. Follow your breathing and use it as a guide

If you see that you are breathing too much and you cannot talk with a person near you, that is a sign that you have to slow down. The truth is that you want to let your breathing be the right guide for your pace. It can help you focus more on what you want to do and the things you want to achieve. Experimenting while also checking your breathing and seeing where you go can make a huge difference.

B. Run and then walk

The main problem with concrete is its hardness. For this reason, when you keep a single position, you wear down your joints and tire your muscles. Standing or sitting still in the same position affects your circulatory system, and your feet and ankles can inflame.

The main recommendation to avoid this kind of injury is continually changing your positions, as sitting down or standing up for a few minutes several times in the day. If you do not have the possibility of sitting in your workplace, you can make a static move while you are standing, for example, stand on the balls of your feet or make little jumps to move your muscles and improve your circulation.

C. Is speed work suitable for the beginner runner?

Yes, because it helps your body handle the lactic acid in the muscles a lot better than it would normally do. On top of that, it will also allow your body to utilize the oxygen in a more efficient manner. When you boost the efficiency in these areas, you can maintain a faster pace. That does not mean it will just happen in a moment. It does take a lot of time and effort as you try to figure out how you can handle everything, and you can adapt it at your own pace. Remember that there is no need to rush here, the focus is on you getting the utmost results and benefits.

As you can see, you should try with slow pacing and then go from there. Using the guidelines in this article will make your running experience better. When you’re a beginner runner, the most important aspect is to not rush. It will take a lot of trial and error to figure out how it all works together. At the end of the day, the most important thing is to continue finding your own pace and experimenting. Eventually you can find the right pace for you, and in the end, it will be well worth it!

Can you use golf shoes for running

Golf shoes are very specific, high quality and they are designed specifically to be used on the golf court. However, many consider them suitable for day to day use and for running as well. This does make you wonder though, can you use golf shoes for running, is it a good idea or not? It all depends on a multitude of factors.

A. What kind of golf shoes are you using?

Spiked golf shoes are obviously not going to cut it. They are not suitable for running because they have spikes and those spikes can cause a lot of damage to your feet. This is why it makes a lot of sense to just use golf shoes without spikes for running. These can be used as regular shoes. That means if you want to go for a jog, you can totally do that and there will be no issues. Understanding that is very important, and that is why you need to take your time and assess the process.

B. Can you remove spikes from golf shoes and use them for running?

No, if you have spiked golf shoes, those can’t be modified to be used on a daily basis. But if the model is without any spikes, you can also use it for running.

It is definitely not a walk in the park to try and find golf shoes that you can use for running, but more and more models are suitable for both golf and running.

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C. Is it safe to use golf shoes for running?

If you have the golf shoes without spikes, then yes, those are pretty similar to regular running shoes. Yes, it might take you a little bit to get used to those, but other than that, you will be good to go. That is why you want to address the situation wisely, and the experience can be well worth it every time.

You do want to check it out for yourself and see how good golf shoes can be for running. It will take a bit of research and some experimentation but finding a pair suitable for both golf and running will make you hit 2 birds with one stone.

How to start training for a marathon

Training for a marathon is no joke. Marathons are a test of endurance. They can be really challenging and they will require a lot of attention and focus from your side. On the other hand, you will be quite happy with the marathon training experience, since it allows you to boost your stamina levels, and you will feel better as an individual. That is why you have to at least test things out and enjoy the process.

A. Understand the building blocks for a marathon

The main thing that matters here is the base mileage. This is the foundational easy mileage designed at an easy pace from which you can build up. As a beginner, you will need 12 to 20 weeks to build up a base. Ideally, you should do 3 or up to 5 runs per week. These need to be at a relaxed pace, so don’t rush it at all, as it will make the process a whole lot better. Don’t increase your mileage by more than 10% week after week, as increasing too fast will only lead to problems.

After you do that, ideally you should build up to a weekly, longer run. This will need to be every 7 to 10 days, and you want to increase, and then lower a bit so your body won’t be pushed a whole lot, which is what matters the most.  If you continue training, your body will boost your stamina levels and you will be able to resist more and more. That means you will become a lot more efficient at training and getting the right results, which is what you really need here.

B. Speed work

Another thing you want from your marathon training is definitely speed work. This is helpful because it allows you to boost your aerobic capacity. But the best part is that it helps make your runs feel easier and better as a whole. You will be happier every time because you can boost your stamina levels naturally, and the quality of the runs will be a lot better too. Here you want to focus on the intervals and tempo. The intervals are usually short distance runs, whereas tempo runs are longer, maybe 4 to 10 miles or so.

C. Rest and recover

You do need to realize that resting is important since it helps your body recover from taxing, challenging workouts. If you still want to be active while you have rest days, you can try some swimming, cycling, hiking, walking, weight lifting or any other cross training. The idea is to have some sort of training that’s not very high impact.

D. Conclusion

As you can see, marathon training varies quite a bit and it has its fair share of interesting ideas. You must experiment, try out new things and truly push the experience to the next level. That’s the right approach and the potential can indeed be second to none. That doesn’t mean it will be easy, but it will surely convey the results and quality that you want!