10 Best Running Shoes Bad Knees [2025]

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Finding the best running shoes for bad knees can feel like an overwhelming challenge, especially with the myriad of options available on the market today. With so many brands, styles, and technologies to choose from, it’s easy to feel lost amidst the sea of information and marketing claims. The wrong choice can lead to discomfort, increased pain, and frustration, making the pursuit of running—whether for fitness, therapy, or enjoyment—more detrimental than beneficial.

To simplify this daunting task, we meticulously researched and shortlisted ten of the best running shoes specifically designed to accommodate bad knees. Our selection process involved evaluating features such as cushioning, support, stability, and overall design, ensuring that each option not only meets the needs of runners with knee issues but also enhances their performance. With our curated list, you can save valuable time and avoid the hassle of sifting through endless product reviews, allowing you to focus on what truly matters: getting back on the road with confidence and comfort.

Top 10 Best Running Shoes Bad Knees In The Market

Last update on 2025-07-06 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Best Running Shoes Bad Knees Reviews

Bestseller No. 1
ALLSWIFIT Women's Walking Shoes Comfortable ActiveEase Running Tennis Athletic...
  • All-Day Cushioning for Active Lifestyles: These women's running shoes feature a thick EVA foam midsole that provides long-lasting cushioning, perfect for gym sessions, walking routines, or daily errands.
  • Stable Movement for Every Activity: Equipped with an X-shaped TPU torsion plate, these sneakers support proper foot alignment and reduce fatigue during walking, cardio, or tennis practice.
  • Breathable Mesh for Cool Comfort: The lightweight 3D mesh upper promotes airflow to keep feet cool and dry, ideal for women's tennis workouts, summer running, or casual walking.
  • Confident Grip Across Surfaces: Designed with a patterned rubber outsole, these tennis shoes offer strong traction for running on treadmills or walking across diverse terrains.
  • Seamless Transition from Workout to Everyday Wear: These versatile sneakers are built for women's running, gym sessions, tennis games, or casual daily use, making them the go-to shoes for active transitions.
Bestseller No. 2
Brooks Men's Glycerin 20 Neutral Running Shoe - Lime/Red/Ebony - 12.5 Medium
  • THIS MEN'S SHOE IS FOR: The Glycerin 20 is perfect for runners who think there is no such thing as too much cushioning. The plush internal fit and soft transitions keep runners surrounded by supreme softness. This Brooks Glycerin 20 is a certified PDAC A5500 Diabetic shoe and has been granted the APMA Seal of Acceptance. We recommend ordering Brooks running shoes 1/2 to one size larger than your dress shoe.
  • NEUTRAL SUPPORT: Provides neutral support while offering the maximum amount of cushioning. Ideal for road running, cross training, the gym or wherever you might want to take them! Predecessor: Glycerin 19. Look for the Brooks Glycerin GTS 20 for the same style with added Support.
  • SUPREME SOFTNESS: The ultimate in softness and supreme comfort, designed for runners who want pillowy soft cushioning. The Glycerin 20 with nitrogen-infused DNA LOFT v3 offers the softest cushioning optimized to be lightweight, responsive, and durable.
  • PLUSH FIT: The plush feel of an internal stretch bootie surrounds your foot and moves and expands with your stride. The engineered breathable mesh upper provides a secure fit while comfortably keeping your foot in place.
  • SMOOTH TRANSITIONS: Redesigned midsole and outsole offer a widened platform for smoother and even easier transitions.
Bestseller No. 3
NORTIV 8 Women's Walking Shoes Cushion Running Tennis Shoes ActiveFloat Non-Slip...
  • Comfort & Shock Absorption: These fashion sneakers boast a plush, high-rebound EVA midsole that cushions each step, alleviating strain on your knees. Feel the softness and shock absorption with these sneakers.
  • Traction & Durability: From city streets to running paths, enjoy stability and lasting performance, step after step thanks to the robust rubber outsole.
  • Breathability & Coolness: The soft and light woven mesh upper is gentle against your skin, ensuring your feet stay cool, while also boasting effortless cleaning and upkeep.
  • Support & Stability: Designed with a TPU film, these athletic shoes offer increased foot support. Experience a secure fit that reduces the risk of injury during workouts or daily activities.
  • Versatile Wear: Whether you're walking, running, hitting the gym, walking the dog, or commuting to work, these women's walking sneakers are your reliable companion.
Bestseller No. 4
Kicksology: The Hype, Science, Culture & Cool of Running Shoes
  • Metzler, Brian (Author)
  • English (Publication Language)
  • 272 Pages - 10/15/2019 (Publication Date) - VeloPress (Publisher)
Bestseller No. 5
Brooks Men's Glycerin GTS 21 Supportive Running Shoe - Blue/Peacoat/Nightlife -...
  • THIS MEN'S SHOE IS FOR: The Glycerin GTS 21 is for runners who think there is no such thing as too much cushioning but seek additional support from our trusted GuideRails holistic support system. This Brooks Glycerin GTS 21 has been granted the APMA Seal of Acceptance. Predecessor: Brooks Glycerin GTS 20.
  • GREAT SUPPORT: The Glycerin GTS 21 is the more supportive version of the Glycerin 20. The innovative GuideRails holistic support system supports your body in its natural motion path while keeping excess movement in check. Ideal for road running, cross training, the gym or wherever you might want to take them!
  • PLUSH IMPROVED FIT: The plush feel of an internal stretch bootie surrounds your foot and moves and expands with your stride. The newly engineered warp knit upper is breathable and allows for a flexible, accommodating fit while staying soft against the foot.
  • SUPREME SOFTNESS: The ultimate in softness and supreme comfort, designed for runners who want pillowy soft cushioning. The Glycerin GTS 21 with nitrogen-infused DNA LOFT v3 cushioning offers supreme softness optimized to be lightweight, responsive, and durable for plush comfort.
  • SMOOTH, STABLE TRANSITIONS: The broad platform stabilizes your foot and promotes smooth heel-to-toe transitions for a supremely soft on-the-run experience.
Bestseller No. 6
Vooncosir Women's Running Shoes, Fashion Non-Slip Blade Sneakers, Comfortable...
  • Lightweight Breathability:Mesh knitting wraps your foot in lightweight support. Inside air cans flow freely for cooling comfort.
  • Cushioned, memory foam insole allow you to stand for a long time without feeling sore after a whole day of work.
  • Increased rubber at the outsole provide better traction and durability for increase the wearing time of our shoes.
  • Flexible Outsole:The blade sole for high flexibility, allow the shoe to free flex Whether you're jogging, working out in the gym or running errands.
  • This Women's Runnning Sneaker is great for all your daily activities.For example Running,Walking,Tennis,Basketball,Baseball,Volleyball,Team Sports,Fitness Cross,Skateboarding,Work,Casual,Fishing,gardening,dress,shopping,travel,driving,athletic sport,workout,Training and so on.
Bestseller No. 7
HuJAT Womens Running Shoes Walking Tennis Gym Fashion Sneakers Athletic Casual...
  • Our running shoes used mesh material, shock absorption cushioning soles, and memory foam insoles, lightweight, breathable and flexible, Let you experience a comfortable wearing feeling all day.
  • Breathable Elastic Upper: The running shoes' upper is made of light and elastic mesh material, which can fit your foot shape better, make your feet feel breathable and unburdened.
  • Soft Memory Foam Insole: Women’s sneaker with memory foam insole has good resilience and flexibility, can disperse the pressure of footsteps, soft to touch,moisture-wicking insoles keep your feet fresh when walking.
  • Shock Absorption Sole: The cushion in the sole improves the shock absorption effect, protects your knees better, and makes you walk for a day without fatigue.
  • Perfect for: Walking, Running, Jogging, Training, Travelling, Shopping, Indoor, Outdoor, Casual, Travel, Exercise, Sports, Gym, Camping, Hiking, Tennis and Workout.
Bestseller No. 8
NORTIV 8 Men's Walking Running Tennis Cushioning Shoes ActiveFloat Non Slip...
  • High-Rebound Midsole: These running shoes for men feature a thick eva midsole for shock absorption, offering a bouncy feel that reduces strain on your knees.
  • Superior Traction & Durability: Made with a slip-resistant rubber outsole that withstands wear and tear. These men’s shoes provide reliable grip and durability to keep you steady and secure on different terrains.
  • Breathable Mesh Upper: The tightly-knit woven mesh upper ensures optimal airflow, keeping your feet cool and comfortable even during prolonged wear.
  • Enhanced Support: The TPU film on the upper offers reinforced strength and stability, while the mesh-foam insole offers exceptional cushioning to reduce foot fatigue.
  • Versatility & Practicality: These sneakers for men are suitable for commuting, running, sports, daily wear, and other occasions when you need style and flexibility.
Bestseller No. 9
Brooks Women’s Launch 11 Neutral Running Shoe - White/Murmur/Blithe - 9 Medium
  • THIS WOMEN’S SHOE IS FOR: The Launch 11 running shoe features DNA FLASH foam underfoot for quick energy returns, while the breathable, lightweight upper provides a distraction-free experience for a faster feel with responsive cushioning. Ideal for all types of workouts, road runs, and even races. Predecessor: Launch 10.
  • RESPONSIVE CUSHION FOR EVERYDAY RUNNING: Nitrogen-infused DNA FLASH midsole paired with DNA FLASH v2 forefoot creates a responsive experience that propels your stride with exceptional energy return and agility.
  • QUICK, SMOOTH TRANSITIONS: The updated RoadTack Rubber outsole delivers enhanced traction precisely where it is crucial, facilitating rapid forward turnover.
  • SOFT, LIGHTWEIGHT CUSHIONING: Lightweight DNA FLASH foam cushioning is soft and extra responsive with DNA FLASH v2 in the forefoot for an energizing ride that adapts every runner’s unique stride.
  • BREATHABLE, SECURE FIT: The mesh upper keeps your foot securely locked in place while remaining highly breathable to help eliminate distractions and enhance overall comfort.
Bestseller No. 10
Nike InfinityRN 4 Women's Road Running Shoes (DR2670-304, Vintage...
  • Waffle outsole provides durable traction. Flyknit tongue is adjustable and plush. Foam collar is soft and supportive to the touch. Increased rubber at the outsole gives traction and durability.

Last update on 2025-07-06 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

The Bottom Line

In conclusion, selecting the right running shoes for individuals with bad knees is crucial for maintaining comfort and reducing the risk of further injury. Our list of the best running shoes for bad knees was meticulously curated based on extensive research, expert recommendations, and user reviews. We analyzed various features such as cushioning, support, stability, and fit, ensuring that each shoe included can help mitigate the impact on your knees while providing a comfortable running experience.

By following our list of the top 10 products, you can make an informed decision that caters specifically to your needs. Whether you’re a seasoned runner or just starting out, the right footwear can significantly enhance your performance and overall enjoyment of running, while also protecting your knees from unnecessary strain. We hope that our recommendations serve as a valuable resource to help you find the perfect pair of running shoes that will support your fitness journey and keep you moving with confidence.

Pamela Couch

I am a designer, shoe-obsessed lifestyle expert, and founder of https://footwind.net/, a shoe boutique located in Downtown Atlanta. I love shoes and I love being able to share my passion for them with others.