The 11 Best Running Shoes for Bad Knees of 2021

Best Overall for Women: Brooks Women's Adrenaline GTS 21 Running Shoes

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With its innovative stability features and ample cushioning, the Brooks Adrenaline GTS excels at shielding runners’ knees from injury.

The latest version of the Adrenaline has soft, high-energizing cushioning that extends beyond the heel and all the way to the forefoot, giving you a smoother, supportive transition from heel to toe. Meanwhile, the GuideRails support system allows you to run comfortably without unnecessary movement, keeping your knees stable and protected. Finally, a streamlined, engineered mesh upper hugs the foot for a soft, secure fit without excess bulk.

These shoes work well for runners, walkers, and anyone looking for an athletic shoe that can help ward off knee pain.

Best Overall for Men: New Balance Men's 890v8 Running Shoes

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New Balance makes it possible to enjoy exceptional stability and cushioning in a lightweight shoe with their sleek, streamlined 890.

With a modern design, these shoes are an ideal blend of performance and style. The shoe’s full-length FuelCell midsole provides high rebound and delivers energy return and propulsion, and the REVlite outsole delivers lightweight cushioning and a flexible response. And like most New Balance shoes, they are available in regular and wide sizes, so you can get an accurate fit.

Best Budget for Women: Saucony Versafoam Cohesion 13

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Saucony’s Versafoam Cohesion shoe is proof that you don’t have to shell out a ton of money for a high-quality, supportive shoe. Versarun cushioning technology assists with shock absorption and reduces impact pressure on your joints even when you’re running on roads and sidewalks. Yet the shoe remains lightweight and flexible, keeping you comfortable for miles, and the breathable, reinforced upper mesh keeps your feet dry and protected.

The Cohesion is a great option for casual runners, marathoners, and anyone looking for an affordable, supportive, and well-cushioned shoe for exercise.

Best Budget for Men: ASICS Men's Gel-Venture 7 Trail Running Shoes

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Comfortable, supportive, and versatile, ASICS GEL-Venture running shoes are an excellent choice for men who want an affordable, well-cushioned running shoe. The shoes’ popular GEL cushioning system in the rearfoot and forefoot helps with shock absorption and allows for a smooth transition.

With a durable rubber outsole and trail-specific lugs, these shoes can be worn for trail running and hiking, but also work well for road running and even everyday wear.

Best Cushioned: Hoka One One Bondi 7 Running Shoe

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These super-cushioned shoes aren’t the most stylish option, but with their thick and wide soles, they’re tough to beat in terms of comfort. The durable, full-length EVA midsole cushioning provides exceptional shock absorption and stability. And even with all that cushioning, the shoe still has an optimal amount of rigidness to give your feet the support they need. The synthetic sole with grippy rubber inserts adds to the shoes’ overall durability as well.

While Bondi shoes definitely aren't cheap, they are high-quality running shoes that provide maximum cushioning and stability. For many, they're worth every penny.

Best for High Arches: Brooks Women's Ghost 13 Running Shoes

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Runners with a history of knee pain need shoes with exceptional support and cushioning like this popular pick from Brooks. Fortunately, those same features are also beneficial for runners who have high arches, so the Ghost is a solid option for them as well.

The shoe’s DNA Loft foam is super soft and allows for smooth, easy landings on the heel and lateral side while the firm BioMoGo DNA foam provides support and stability under the arch. Additionally, the shoe’s engineered air mesh upper provides a secure but flexible fit that breathes well.

Best for Flat Feet: Asics Women's GEL-Kayano 27 Running Shoes

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With its technical design and innovative features, the popular Asics GEL Kayano running shoe gives runners with flat feet and a history of knee pain the support and cushioning they need. Asics’ Flytefoam technology helps the shoe bounce back to its original shape after each stride. Meanwhile, the shoe’s dynamic DuoMax support system gives your feet stability and support, and the impact guidance system promotes a more natural gait.

With Asics’ signature GEL cushioning in the forefoot and rearfoot, the shoes also deliver superior shock absorption and comfort. The heel clutch technology provides a secure fit as well, so there’s no concern about your rearfoot sliding around.

Best for Wide Feet: New Balance Women's Fresh Foam 1080 V10

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The New Balance 1080 Fresh Foam running shoes have just the right amount of support and cushioning to protect your knees while running. The full-length Fresh Foam midsole keeps your feet comfortable without weighing the shoes down or making them feel too bulky. The shoes’ Ortholite cushion inserts also enhance their comfort while helping with moisture control.

These running shoes are available in several different widths, so those who need some extra room in the toebox can find their perfect fit. 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.

Best Lightweight: Brooks Glycerin 18 Running Shoes

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If you want a lot of cushioning for knee protection but still desire a lightweight feel, the Brooks Glycerin shoe is an excellent pick. Versatile and durable, it's light enough for shorter runs or casual wear, but also provides the comfort and support you need when hitting higher mileage.

The soft cushioning adapts to each step, keeping your feet from straining and helping to protect your knees from the pounding of the pavement. Additionally, the shoe’s transition zone assists with shock absorption and evenly disperses impact for a smooth, even ride. Similar to other well-designed running shoes, this pair of Brooks is on the pricey side, but the high-quality comfort and protection they provide make them well worth the cost.

Best for Overpronators: Saucony Women's Guide 13 Running Shoe

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With an outstanding cushioning system and fantastic shock absorption, Saucony Guide running shoes are a perfect choice for overpronators who want to protect their knees. PWRRUN cushioning provides the right amount of softness and responsiveness while still maintaining a lightweight feel. Additionally, the medial TPU guidance frame keeps your feet tracking straight, providing the stability and motion control that overpronators need.

These shoes also have a wide toebox, so there’s plenty of room for your forefoot to spread when pushing off and landing.