What type of running shoe is best for knee pain?

While everyone’s preferences and feet differ, people who are prone to knee pain generally benefit from a running shoe with extra cushioning to reduce impact and good support to promote a stable gait. Our top overall pick, On’s Cloudrunner , checks those boxes and also has a spacious toe box that provides additional comfort and stability.

Can running shoes affect your knees?

Yes, running in improper or worn-out running shoes can lead to knee pain. Before starting a running program, make sure to get a running gait analysis done at a running store so you can get the right shoes for your foot type and gait.

What can you expect to pay for running shoes for bad knees?

A quality pair of running shoes for bad knees usually costs anywhere from $100 to $170. Cheaper pairs may not have as many high-tech features, such as carbon plates or structures that control overpronation. More expensive pairs may be made of higher quality, more durable materials. The budget-friendliest pairs on our list, Brooks’ Launch 9 and Asics’ GT-2000 10 are often available for about $100. And our top overall pick, On’s Cloudrunner , was $150 when we published this list. If you’re looking to save some money, older models of running shoes usually have many of the same features as the latest version but at a discounted price.

The 16 Best Running Shoes for Bad Knees of 2023

Graphic of running shoes on a pink background — Verywell / Sabrina Jiang

If you're experiencing knee pain while running, the culprit could be anything from your running form to your weekly schedule—and even what kind of surface you run on. But if you're confident that you've built a running routine that's easy on your body, then your shoes are likely to blame. Wearing the wrong type of running shoes (or wearing shoes that are worn out) can also lead to knee pain, either occasional or chronic.

When looking for a running shoe, “comfort is one of the best predictors of whether a shoe will work for someone or not,” Jack Hackett, head coach and founder of Infinity Running Company, says. To protect knees from impact, the shoe’s cushioning should be soft without being overly plush and offer excellent shock absorption.

Additionally, running shoes should be supportive and provide a good fit that contours to the shape of the foot. Hackett also advises looking at a shoe’s smoothness, noting that an even transition from landing to pushing off is essential to finding a shoe that will protect your joints and feel comfortable long-term.

To find the best running shoes for bad knees, we laced up and hit the ground running to test 24 pairs. We completed at least two runs a week for a period of six weeks, evaluating shoes for fit, comfort, cushioning/knee protection, responsiveness, stability, and overall value. We scored each product on a scale of 1 (would not recommend) to 5 (highly recommend) for these key categories and ranked them accordingly. We also had a certified running coach from our Review Board review the claims in this article for accuracy around running shoes for bad knees and how to evaluate their different features.

Our Top Picks

Best Overall:

On Women's Cloudrunner at Dick's

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Best Budget:

Brooks Men's Launch 9 at Amazon

Jump to Review

Best for Speed:

Asics Women's Magic Speed 2 Ekiden at Zappos

Jump to Review

Best for Trail Running:

Asics Women's Novablast 3 Platinum at Amazon

Jump to Review

Best for Beginners:

Asics Women's GT-2000 10 Running Shoes at Amazon

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Best for Stability:

Brooks Ghost 14 at Amazon

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Best for Wide Feet:

Hoka Clifton 8 at Zappos

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Most Versatile:

Brooks Women's Glycerin StealthFit 20 at Amazon

Jump to Review

Best Lightweight:

Hoka Arahi 6 at Amazon

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Most Stylish:

lululemon Chargefeel Mid Women's Workout Shoe at Lululemon

Jump to Review

In This Article

Our Picks
How We Rated
We Also Tested
How We Tested
What to Look For
FAQ
Why Trust Verywell Fit

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Our Ratings

Fit

5/5
Cushioning/Knee Protection

5/5
Comfort

5/5
Responsiveness

5/5
Stability

5/5

Pros

Extremely comfortable and supportive
Very responsive
Versatile

Cons

Sizes run small
Limited color options

On’s Cloudrunner shoe provides exceptional comfort and support when running, doing high-intensity interval training, or when you’re on your feet all day. The versatile pair earned a perfect score of 5 out of 5 in all five key categories, making it a clear winner for our best overall shoe for bad knees.

When testing, the shoe’s cushioning felt generous, providing plenty of stability and joint protection during runs and when jumping during workouts. The Cloudrunner put a spring in our step, with a responsive midsole that propelled us forward when running.

We also found that the shoe provided great stability, helping to prevent any knee buckling or ankle rolling. And we like that these sneakers supported our ankles, so we could run and walk with ease. The mesh upper hugs the foot for additional support and a comfy fit with good breathability.

The Cloudrunner is durable, comfortable, supportive, and quite stylish, making them a great option for people who are on their feet all day. Compared to some other brands, the color options are a bit limited, especially in wide sizes, so we hope they’ll be expanded with future versions. It's also worth noting that they tend to run small, so you may want to size up.

Price at time of publication: $150

^{Key Specs:
Materials: Recycled polyester | Closure: Lace-up | Cushioning: Plush but responsive | Weight: 8.8 ounces | Drop: 9 millimeters}

Verywell Fit / Courtesy of Sophia Heald

4.7

Brooks

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Our Ratings

Fit

5/5
Cushioning/Knee Protection

4/5
Comfort

4/5
Responsiveness

5/5
Stability

5/5

Pros

Good responsiveness
Very durable
Lightweight

Cons

Not ideal for long runs

Brooks’ Launch 9 is proof that you don’t have to shell out a ton of money for a high-quality shoe with the right support and cushioning to prevent knee pain. After testing, we think it’s a solid pick for runners who want a springy, lightweight shoe with solid impact protection.

During our test, the Launch 9 proved to have the right amount of stability to allow for a mechanically sound stride. The shoe also has a roomy toe box, and the stretchy upper comfortably hugs the foot for a secure fit. While they have enough cushioning for good shock absorption on shorter runs, they may be a bit too thin and stiff for longer distances.

At just over 8 ounces each, these shoes didn't weigh us down. We also liked how durable they were, even after weeks of test runs. And they're responsive—we noticed that the thin cushioning helped push us forward with each step.

We recommend this shoe to beginners who are just getting started on their running journey and to those who don’t have trouble with high-impact foot strikes. We also think this pair is great for more experienced runners who like sharply responsive shoes and want a less expensive option.

Price at time of publication: $110

_{Key Specs:
Materials: Mesh upper, green rubber outsole | Closure: Lace-up | Cushioning: Responsive | Weight: 8.2 ounces | Drop: 10 millimeters}

Verywell Fit / Courtesy of Anna Knief

4.7

Asics

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Our Ratings

Fit

5/5
Cushioning/Knee Protection

4.5/5
Comfort

4.5/5
Responsiveness

5/5
Stability

4.3/5

Pros

Lightweight
Springy midsole
Good shock absorption

Cons

Limited color options
No wide sizes

If you’re in the market for a lightweight, springy shoe that offers good knee protection, we recommend Asics’ Magic Speed 2. The shoe boasts a full-length carbon and TPU (thermal plastic unit) plate in the midsole that propels your foot forward with each step.

When testing, this pair's midsole felt fast and bouncy. We love them for speedwork or races, as it almost feels like you have mini trampolines in your soles when wearing them.

These shoes provide the ideal amount of cushioning, offering plenty of comfort and shock absorption without being too thick or plush. They also feel comfortable right out of the box, with no tight spots or rubbing. But we’d love to see these shoes in wide sizes, as well as more color options.

Price at time of publication: $150

^{Key Specs:
Materials: Engineered mesh upper, rubber outsole | Closure: Lace-up | Cushioning: Lightweight and responsive | Weight: 7 ounces | Drop: 8 millimeters}

Verywell Fit / Courtesy of Shannon Bauer

4.3

Asics

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Our Ratings

Fit

4.5/5
Cushioning/Knee Protection

4.5/5
Comfort

4.2/5
Responsiveness

4/5
Stability

4.5/5

Pros

Excellent shock absorption
Dependable traction
Very durable and versatile

Cons

Expensive
Limited color options

Boasting a durable rubber outsole with dependable traction, Asics’ Novablast 3 Platinum shoes are our pick for trail running, although they also work well for road running and everyday wear. One of our testers even wore them when she ran the New York City Marathon, noting that her knees stayed pain-free throughout the entire 26.2 miles.

We really like the shoe’s cushioning, which was comfortable without being too bulky and provided stellar shock absorption. The fit felt snug but not too tight, with a roomy toe box. We’re also impressed with how these shoes maintained their comfort and support even as we racked up the mileage in a short period of time—a testament to their quality and durability.

We ran on both treadmill and asphalt with these shoes and on trails, and they remained stable—regardless of the terrain. We found them to be especially beneficial for those with especially weak ankles and/or bad knees.

The Novablast 3 is expensive, but for a durable, well-cushioned road-to-trail shoe with good responsiveness, it’s well worth the price. We only wish they were available in more color options.

Price at time of publication: $160

^{Key Specs:
Materials: Jacquard mesh upper, rubber outsole | Closure: Lace-up | Cushioning: Plush | Weight: 7.8 ounces | Drop: 8 millimeters}

Verywell Fit / Courtesy of Abigail Moore

4.6

Asics

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Our Ratings

Fit

4.3/5
Cushioning/Knee Protection

4.5/5
Comfort

4.5/5
Responsiveness

4/5
Stability

5/5

Pros

Excellent stability
Good value
Aligns your feet

Cons

No wide sizes
Need some breaking-in

If you’re new to running and looking for a reliable entry-level shoe, Asics’ GT-2000 10 is a comfortable, affordable option. They offer a generous amount of cushioning to support knees and ankles without making the shoe too heavy. The shoes’ gel cushioning in the heel also delivers good impact protection with each step.

In testing, we liked the firm foam on the medial side of the midsole, which helps promote a natural gait. The shoe also holds your foot in alignment, keeping it stable as you run.

In terms of fit, it took several runs to break these shoes in when testing, but they felt comfortable and secure after that. We do wish they came in wide sizes for those who need some extra space. We found these shoes to be ideal for slow, distance-focused runs, as they seemed more likely to keep our running form consistent even as we got tired or distracted after many miles.

Price at time of publication: $130

^{Key Specs:
Materials: Recycled polyester, rubber outsole | Closure: Lace-up | Cushioning: Plush | Weight: 8.4 ounces | Drop: 8 millimeters}

Verywell Fit / Shannon Bauer

4.7

Brooks

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Our Ratings

Fit

5/5
Cushioning/Knee Protection

4/5
Comfort

5/5
Responsiveness

4/5
Stability

5/5

Pros

Very stable and supportive
Excellent cushioning
Stretchy upper

Cons

Heavier than previous versions

Runners with a history of knee pain need shoes with exceptional support and cushioning, like this pick from Brooks. During testing, we liked that they felt solid without being heavy, with just the right amount of cushion. The shoe’s dependable support allows you to easily change paces or surfaces without any issues or aches. After testing, it quickly became our go-to shoe for all types of runs.

The shoe also delivers an outstanding fit, thanks to the comfortable, stretchy upper and roomy forefoot. As some wearers noticed, this version is a bit heavier than the previous ones. However, both casual and serious runners will undoubtedly appreciate the Ghost’s support and comfort for logging miles or everyday wear.

Price at time of publication: $140

^{Key Specs:
Materials: Engineered lace upper, rubber outsole | Closure: Lace-up | Cushioning: Soft but responsive | Weight: 9 ounces | Drop: 12 millimeters}

Verywell Fit / Courtesy of Sara Michael

4.8

Hoka

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Our Ratings

Fit

5/5
Cushioning/Knee Protection

4/5
Comfort

5/5
Responsiveness

5/5
Stability

5/5

Pros

Good shock absorption
Breathable, flexible upper
Roomy fit

Cons

Too unstable for narrow feet
Expensive

HOKA’s Clifton 8 offers plenty of room in the toe box and midfoot, making it a comfortable option for those who are prone to blisters, bunions, or feet that swell when running. If you have narrower feet, you may find that these shoes will slide around slightly if running on uneven terrain. However, we were impressed by the shoe’s overall comfort and responsiveness.

For those with wider feet, we found these shoes to be very comfortable for wearing all day and for running. Since they’re not the most stable shoes, we recommend them for shorter distance runs on even surfaces, rather than for longer runs.

Designed as an everyday training shoe, the Clifton 8 boasts soft, bouncy cushioning and a durable rubber outsole that helps with shock absorption. The shoe’s knit mesh upper felt soft and breathable, with no chafing or blistering issues. We also like the extended heel tab, which adds some extra stability and allows for easy on and off. While the Clifton 8 is more expensive than some of our other picks, we think you get what you pay for in terms of their superior construction and support.

Price at time of publication: $160

^{Key Specs:
Materials: Mesh upper, rubber outsole | Closure: Lace-up | Cushioning: Soft but responsive | Weight: 7.2 ounces | Drop: 5 millimeters}

Verywell Fit / Courtesy of Abigail Moore

4.7

Brooks

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Our Ratings

Fit

5/5
Cushioning/Knee Protection

4.5/5
Comfort

5/5
Responsiveness

4.5/5
Stability

4.9/5

Pros

Versatile
Very durable
Comfortable, seamless fit

Cons

Expensive

While Brooks’ Glycerin StealthFit 20 is designed with neutral runners in mind, its dependable comfort and support make it an all-around performer for cross-training, walking, or long days on your feet. As CrossFit enthusiasts and runners, we appreciated that this durable pair was up to the task for both gym workouts and distance runs.

With a knit mesh, breathable upper that stretches and adapts to your foot shape, this shoe is built for comfort. The toe box was wide enough for toes to spread, which helped with blister prevention. During our test, the shoe’s super-soft cushioning felt lightweight and responsive, offering good protection from pounding on hard surfaces. We also loved this pair’s plush underfoot and secure, seamless upper.

Additionally, the shoe’s wide midsole and outsole also help with shock absorption and evenly disperse impact for a smooth, even ride. We found that the Glycerin StealthFit offered good, long-lasting support, especially in the heel area, for a wide range of activities. Similar to other well-designed running shoes, this pair is on the pricey side—but we think their high-quality comfort and protection make them well worth the cost.

Price at time of publication: $160

^{Key Specs:
Materials: Knit upper | Closure: Lace-up | Cushioning: Plush | Weight: 8.4 ounces | Drop: 10 millimeters}

Verywell Fit / Courtesy of Michael Navarro

4.5

Hoka

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Our Ratings

Fit

4.5/5
Cushioning/Knee Protection

5/5
Comfort

4.5/5
Responsiveness

4/5
Stability

4/5

Pros

Well-cushioned
Excellent shock absorption
Breathable upper

Cons

Not as stable on uneven surfaces

Despite its ample cushioning and support, Hoka's Arahi 6 shoe is remarkably lightweight, making it a nice option for runners who don’t want a bulky look and feel. But they don't sacrifice padding: We found the Arahi 6 really absorbed impact, even when running on hard, paved roads. The durable shoes were also very comfortable and breathable and didn’t have any irritating seams or tight spots.

When testing, we found the sensation of wearing these shoes to be similar to not wearing shoes at all—that’s how lightweight and comfy they are. We continued to wear these shoes throughout the day post-run without dying to take them off.

The Arahi is versatile for short or distance runs, whether you opt for roads and paths or are looking for a great pair of treadmill running shoes. However, we noted that this pair didn’t feel as stable on uneven surfaces as other options we tested, so they might not be the best choice for uneven or off-road conditions.

Price at time of publication: $140

^{Key Specs:
Materials: Mesh upper and lining, rubber outsole | Closure: Lace-up | Cushioning: Plush | Weight: 7.6 ounces | Drop: 5 millimeters}

Verywell Fit / Courtesy of Abigail Moore

4.2

Lululemon

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Our Ratings

Fit

4.2/5
Cushioning/Knee Protection

4/5
Comfort

4/5
Responsiveness

5/5
Stability

4/5

Pros

Very responsive
Comfortable cushioning
Secure fit

Cons

Not ideal for speedwork
May need to size up for wide feet

Known for making some of the best leggings on the market, lululemon proves its trademark comfort and style extends to their footwear line with the Chargefeel shoe. The shoes are designed for running and training, and the streamlined look is perfect for going straight from the gym to a coffee meet-up.

While testing, we found that the dual-density cushioning delivered cloud-like comfort and good energy return, with a responsive midsole. We especially liked them for slower runs and walks, noting that the cushioning may not be ideal for speedwork.

The sock compression design means that you can’t just easily slip on these shoes, which takes some getting used to. Fit-wise, they felt a bit snug at the midfoot, so we recommend sizing up, especially if you have a wide foot.

Price at time of publication: $148

^{Key Specs:
Materials: Engineered mesh upper, synthetic outsole | Closure: Lace-up | Cushioning: Soft but responsive | Weight: 9.4 ounces | Drop: 9 millimeters}

Verywell Fit / Courtesy of Stella Yu

4.8

Mizuno

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Our Ratings

Fit

5/5
Cushioning/Knee Protection

5/5
Comfort

5/5
Responsiveness

5/5
Stability

4/5

Pros

Non-irritating mesh upper
Comfortable, secure fit
Durable and stable

Cons

Not versatile for other workouts

Mizuno’s Wave Rider 26 is a solid pick for runners who need a shoe with supportive cushioning to protect their joints but also want to keep the spring in their step. We found the shoe to be very responsive, with exceptional energy return even when running on concrete sidewalks.

While testing, we found the fit to be comfortable right out of the box, with no tight spots or rubbing. The soft, stretchy mesh breathes well to avoid overheated feet and foot blisters. The shoe also felt very durable and stable without feeling too clunky or burdensome.

We especially liked that the responsiveness of these shoes felt immediate—as soon as they pound the pavement, you're back up and running. The shoe’s stellar bounceback and stability make it ideal for running. But there are better, more streamlined options if you’re looking for an all-around running and gym shoe.

Price at time of publication: $140

^{Key Specs:
Materials: Engineered mesh upper, rubber outsole | Closure: Lace-up | Cushioning: Very responsive | Weight: 8.3 ounces | Drop: 12 millimeters}

Verywell Fit / Courtesy of Lily Moe

Brooks

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Our Ratings

Fit

5/5
Cushioning/Knee Protection

5/5
Comfort

5/5
Responsiveness

5/5
Stability

5/5

Pros

Ideal for narrow feet
Excellent stability
Versatile and durable

Cons

Expensive

A well-cushioned shoe can help protect your knees from the impact of running and other activities while also providing plush comfort for miles. As we ran and worked out in this pair from Brooks, the shoe’s soft, thick midsole delivered exceptional comfort and shock absorption, earning the shoe a perfect score of 5 out of 5 for cushioning.

In addition to the pillow-like comfort, we appreciated the shoe’s responsiveness, which was evident when we wore the pair for runs as well as for cardio classes that involved a lot of jumping. Equally impressive was the shoe’s secure fit and reliable stability, thanks to its GuideRails technology that keeps excess movement in check. When wearing the shoes on all different types of terrain, including cement, cushioned gym floors, sand, gravel, and wood floors, we appreciated that our feet and ankles felt very stable, a feature that was especially useful for those of us with narrower feet.

While this pair is on the pricier side, they’re well worth their price tag in terms of impact protection, overall comfort, and durability.

Price at time of publication: $160

^{Key Specs:
Materials: Mesh upper, synthetic outsole | Closure: Lace-up | Cushioning: Plush | Weight: 9.4 ounces | Drop: 10 millimeters}

Verywell Fit / Courtesy of Ivy Ford

Zappos

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Our Ratings

Fit

5/5
Cushioning/Knee Protection

5/5
Comfort

5/5
Responsiveness

5/5
Stability

5/5

Pros

Lightweight
Good stability
Great cushioning

Cons

Laces are short

A solid pick for avid runners, Saucony’s Guide 15 offers exceptional impact protection on a variety of surfaces. When testing, we were impressed with the shoe’s cushioning, which provides the right amount of softness and responsiveness while still maintaining a lightweight feel. The shoes felt plush but not squishy, and we loved that the snug upper didn't shift around while running at all.

The Guide 15 also offered good stability, particularly for the ankles, and we noted that the shoes helped keep knees in proper alignment. The wide toe box gives plenty of room for the forefoot to spread out, which adds to the shoe’s overall stability.

One minor complaint is that the laces are somewhat short, especially if you loop them through the ankle locks. But the Guide 15's padding provides a comfortable ride that absorbs shock better than other shoes we tested, like Brooks' Launch 9.

Price at time of publication: $140

^{Key Specs:
Materials: Mesh upper, rubber outsole | Closure: Lace-up | Cushioning: Soft and lightweight | Weight: 9.5 ounces | Drop: 8 millimeters}

Verywell Fit / Courtesy of Anna Knief

New Balance

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Our Ratings

Fit

5/5
Cushioning/Knee Protection

5/5
Comfort

5/5
Responsiveness

5/5
Stability

5/5

Pros

Lightweight
Excellent cushioning
Streamlined, low-profile silhouette

Cons

Sizes run large

If you’re prone to plantar fasciitis, you’ll appreciate the full-length cushioning and supportive arch and heel in New Balance’s Fresh Foam 1080v12. One of our testers was dealing with a bout of plantar fasciitis and credits this pair with aiding in her recovery.

During our test, we found that the cushioning offered the perfect balance of soft comfort and springiness. Additionally, we felt very stable when running on roads, sidewalks, and trails, in all types of weather conditions.

These running shoes are available in several different widths, and the mesh upper stretches to accommodate the foot shape. One caveat about fit is that the 1080v12 runs big, and New Balance recommends ordering down from your normal size, which our tester was happy she did. With a sleek style and a variety of fun colors and patterns to choose from, these comfy kicks are perfect for runners who like their shoes to serve double duty as athletic and casual wear.

Price at time of publication: $160

^{Key Specs:
Materials: Mesh upper, rubber outsole | Closure: Lace-up | Cushioning: Lightweight and responsive | Weight: 8.3 ounces | Drop: 8 millimeters}

Verywell Fit / Courtesy of Holly Klamer

4.9

Dick's Sporting Goods

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Our Ratings

Fit

5/5
Cushioning/Knee Protection

5/5
Comfort

5/5
Responsiveness

5/5
Stability

4.5/5

Pros

Flexible
Very responsive
Stylish

Cons

Not as stable as some other options

Nike’s React Infinity Run Flyknit 3 offers a smooth, supportive ride with a breathable mesh upper that cradles your foot for a comfy, flexible feel. We love the upper material and how breathable they are, and they fall in line with the quality we expect from Nike Flyknits. One of our testers, who has worn Flyknits for years as her go-to running shoe, was impressed with the shoe’s exceptional fit and comfort, noting that this version felt like it had even thicker cushioning.

Nike’s React technology includes a foam rocker underfoot, which helps to reduce injuries while allowing for a natural gait. The shoes also felt very responsive, with a nice bounce to them. While the shoes felt fairly stable, we took off a half point for their stability score because of the shoe’s narrow silhouette and high sole. We recommend these shoes to those who want a comfy, flexible, and stylish shoe for running or casual wear.

Price at time of publication: $160

^{Key Specs:
Materials: Mesh upper, rubber outsole | Closure: Lace-up | Cushioning: Supportive and responsive | Weight: 8.7 ounces | Drop: 8 millimeters}

Verywell Fit / Courtesy of Ivy Ford

4.7

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Our Ratings

Fit

5/5
Cushioning/Knee Protection

5/5
Comfort

4.5/5
Responsiveness

4.6/5
Stability

5/5

Pros

Very stable and supportive
Plush but responsive cushioning
Rocker-style sole

Cons

Expensive

If you need a well-cushioned shoe that delivers good impact protection as well as ankle stability, we recommend On’s Cloudmonster. The pair earned a 5 out of 5 for stability, thanks to its well-padded collar and heel tab that provides good support for the ankle, as well as an internal heel counter that adds to the locked-in feel. While the shoe’s sole is heavily cushioned, we found that it still felt extremely sturdy and stable, keeping ankles in place with each stride.

We also were impressed with the shoe’s responsiveness, which was surprising, given its plush, maximum cushioning. “This pair is really bouncy but maintains a firmness to it, so you don’t feel like you're running on beanbags,” said one of our testers. The shoe’s rocker shape provides a propelling, forward motion, which promotes a natural, more efficient gait.

There’s no doubt that this pair is pricier than most other options on our list, but we think it’s a good investment for its high quality, exceptional comfort, and durability.

Price at time of publication: $170

^{Key Specs:
Materials: Polyester, rubber | Closure: Lace-up | Cushioning: Plush | Weight: 9.7 ounces | Drop: 6 millimeters}

Verywell Fit / Courtesy of Mathieu Jean-Lubin

How We Rated the Running Shoes for Bad Knees

4.8 to 5 stars: These are the best running shoes for bad knees we tested. We recommend them without reservation.

4.5 to 4.7 stars: These running shoes for bad knees are excellent—they might have minor flaws, but we still recommend them.

4.0 to 4.5 stars: We think these are great running shoes for bad knees, but others are better.

3.5 to 3.9 stars: These running shoes for bad knees are just average.

3.4 and below: We don't recommend running shoes for bad knees with this rating; you won't find any on our list.

We Also Tested

In total, we tested 24 shoes, but only 16 earned a spot in our final list of recommendations. While these popular name-brand shoes excelled in some areas, they ultimately didn’t make the cut.

New Balance’s Fresh Foam X More v4 offers pillow-like cushioning, but it’s not as responsive as some of the other options we tested. It’s a durable, comfortable shoe for those who spend a lot of time on their feet, but not the best choice for runners who want to maintain a bouncy stride.
Brooks’ Adrenaline GTS 22 scored well for its comfy fit, good support, and lightweight and responsive feel. Like other Brooks shoes, they’re pricey but a good investment for distance runners who overpronate and want a dependable shoe.
Saucony’s Triumph 20 is a lightweight, highly cushioned shoe that’s ideal for neutral runners who prefer longer distances. While it offered decent support and comfort, the fit felt constricting, and we thought there were better options at this price point.

How We Tested the Best Running Shoes for Bad Knees

To choose the best running shoes for bad knees, we first asked experts for their opinions on which features every pair should have. We spoke with Jack Hackett, Head Coach and Founder of Infinity Running Company, and physical therapists Robert Gillanders, PT, DPT, Brent Rader, DPT, and Brandon Schmitt, DPT, ATC.

Then, we researched dozens of sneakers from the top trusted brands. We considered materials, cushioning, fit, price, durability, style, and more, with guidance from Diana Valencia, DPM, a podiatrist. We ultimately chose 24 pairs to test for ourselves.

First, we tried each shoe on to assess the fit: Did they have enough cushioning? Is the midsole flexible, or could we barely bend it? Next, we wore each pair of sneakers for at least 12 runs over a period of six weeks. We hit the roads, paths, treadmills, and trails, paying particular attention to how our knees felt both during and after running in the shoes. We also kept track of any tingling, numbness, discomfort, or blisters.

At the end of the testing period, we considered how well the shoes held up. We then rated each shoe on a scale of 1 (would not recommend) to 5 (highly recommend) for fit, comfort, cushioning/knee protection, responsiveness, stability, and overall value. We used these scores and insights to create our final list of recommendations.

Verywell Fit / Courtesy of Anna Knief

What to Look For in Running Shoes for Bad Knees

Cushioning

Wearing running shoes with inadequate support or cushioning can lead to knee pain that would have been preventable with the proper shoes. “Shoes that don’t support a patient’s natural foot structure and running mechanics will cause the body to compensate, increasing the likelihood of poor positioning and overload in the ankle, knee, or hip,” Brent Rader, DPT, physical therapist for The Centers for Advanced Orthopaedics, says. You may need running shoes with more cushioning or stability to prevent overpronation, which can lead to knee pain.

Your running shoes should absorb most of the shock from your feet hitting the ground. “Properly supportive and appropriately cushioned running shoes can help to dampen the repetitive loading stresses of running,” Robert Gillanders, PT, DPT, a physical therapist based in Washington, D.C., says. Look for pairs with thick layers of foam or gel padding that will cushion your stride. Some sneakers also have additional cushioning in the forefoot or rearfoot for targeted support where you need it most.

Durability

You want to choose a shoe that’s durable, so the support and cushioning won’t wear out quickly. Look for shoes with sturdy rubber outsoles that will hold up to pounding and abrasion from running on hard surfaces. Also, replace your running shoes often (every 300 to 400 miles), as a lack of shoe cushioning and support can also lead to knee pain.

Fit

Physical therapists and other movement experts can evaluate runners to determine the best shoes for their gait, foot type, and injury history. “This type of assessment can provide a roadmap for runners to return to pain-free miles,” said Gillanders. When choosing your running shoes, they should fit comfortably right out of the box—no break-in period required. And make sure you have plenty of room in the toe box to wiggle your toes.

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Heel-to-Toe Drop

The heel-to-toe drop refers to the difference between the height of the shoe at the heel and at the forefoot. The drop of a shoe can affect things such as your cadence, foot strike, and what part of your body takes on the load or impact of each step. Shoes with lower heel-to-toe drops place less pressure on your knees and hips, which can help to reduce your risk of injury in those areas.

Generally, the average running shoe has a heel-to-toe drop of 10 millimeters, although some brands are known for having lower drops. Most HOKA running shoes, for instance, have a heel-to-toe drop of 5 or 6 millimeters. A lower heel-to-drop is often better for runners who want a midfoot or forefoot strike, while the higher drop encourages rearfoot striking. Getting a gait analysis done at a specialty running store or with a physical therapist can help you determine your foot strike and the best shoes for you.

If you’d rather try a pair of shoes with no heel-to-toe drop at all, check out our list of the best zero drop running shoes.

Weight

To help prevent knee pain, you’ll want a shoe with ample cushioning and good support, which will definitely increase the shoe’s weight. However, thanks to today’s shoe technology, it’s possible for a shoe to be lightweight and still be supportive and well-cushioned. If you look for shoes that weigh somewhere between 6 to 12 ounces, you’ll get a range of options that are comfortable and supportive without being too flimsy or bulky.

When choosing a running shoe, consider how you’ll be using it. Lighter, more flexible shoes are better for speedwork, while heavier, sturdier ones are better for slow-paced distance runs. However, lightweight shoes tend to break down faster than bulkier, thicker ones, so you should pay attention to signs your shoes need to be replaced.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of running shoe is best for knee pain?

While everyone’s preferences and feet differ, people who are prone to knee pain generally benefit from a running shoe with extra cushioning to reduce impact and good support to promote a stable gait. Our top overall pick, On’s Cloudrunner, checks those boxes and also has a spacious toe box that provides additional comfort and stability.
Can running shoes affect your knees?

Yes, running in improper or worn-out running shoes can lead to knee pain. Before starting a running program, make sure to get a running gait analysis done at a running store so you can get the right shoes for your foot type and gait.
What can you expect to pay for running shoes for bad knees?

A quality pair of running shoes for bad knees usually costs anywhere from $100 to $170. Cheaper pairs may not have as many high-tech features, such as carbon plates or structures that control overpronation. More expensive pairs may be made of higher quality, more durable materials. The budget-friendliest pairs on our list, Brooks’ Launch 9 and Asics’ GT-2000 10 are often available for about $100. And our top overall pick, On’s Cloudrunner, was $150 when we published this list.
If you’re looking to save some money, older models of running shoes usually have many of the same features as the latest version but at a discounted price.

Verywell Fit / Courtesy of Sara Michael

Why Trust Verywell Fit

Christine Luff, ACE-CPT, is a contributing writer for Verywell Fit with more than 20 years of experience writing and editing health and fitness content and product recommendations. As a certified personal trainer, running coach, and avid runner, she’s always researching and testing running shoes. Her favorite running shoe is the Brooks Glycerin, which has the perfect amount of cushioning and support to keep her knees pain-free when she’s running.

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