10 Best Running Shoes Bad Knees [2025]

This post contains affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

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 2025-03-23 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Best Running Shoes Bad Knees Reviews

Bestseller No. 1
Brooks Women’s Adrenaline GTS 23 Supportive Running Shoe - Blue Glass/Nile...
  • THIS WOMEN’S SHOE IS FOR: The Adrenaline GTS 23 is for runners who need support and want a smooth, reliable ride. This Brooks Adrenaline GTS 23 is a certified PDAC A5500 Diabetic shoe and has been granted the APMA Seal of Acceptance. Predecessor: Adrenaline GTS 22
  • GUIDERAILS HOLISTIC SUPPORT SYSTEM: Our unique technology aligns your body in its natural motion path while keeping excess movement in check.
  • SOFT, LIGHTWEIGHT CUSHIONING: New midsole features soft and lighter weight DNA LOFT v2 cushioning.
  • ENHANCED UPPER: Engineered air mesh upper provides comfort and breathability with 3D Fit Print for added structure.
  • TRUSTED, SECURE FIT: Engineered Air Mesh and use of 3D Fit Print to enhance upper and deliver the structure and proven fit the Adrenaline is known for.
Bestseller No. 2
New Balance Women's Fresh Foam 680 V8 Running Shoe, Quarry Blue/Chrome Blue/Sea...
  • Fresh Foam midsole foam cushioning with approximately 3% bio-based content is precision engineered to deliver an ultra-cushioned, lightweight ride. Bio-based content is made from renewable resources to help reduce our carbon footprint.
  • Dual density midsole uses two different foams for the ideal combination of comfort and performance
  • No sew overlays
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
ASICS Women's Gel-Excite 10 Running Shoes, 10, Black/White
  • Engineered jacquard mesh upper: Creates a softer feel against the foot while improving breathability
  • AMPLIFOAM PLUS cushioning: Helps to improve durability creates a softer and more comfortable feel at footstrike
  • Rearfoot GEL technology: Improves impact absorption and creates a softer feeling at footstrike
  • OrthoLite sockliner: Provides soft step-in comfort
  • GUIDANCE LINE technology: Provides a more consistent stride
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
New Balance womens Fresh Foam Roav V1 Running Shoe Sneaker, Black/Light...
  • Truly Unique: The New Balance Fresh Foam Roav v1 running shoes are the ultimate in casual athletic style. Pairing a bold, attractive look with plush comfort, these cushioned running shoes are in a league of their own.
  • Fresh Foam Midsole: Feel like you're running or walking in the clouds. The first of three proprietary technologies in this athletic shoe, Fresh Foam midsole cushioning is precision engineered to deliver an ultra-cushioned, lightweight ride.
  • NDurance Outsole: Step up your game without wearing out your favorite running shoes. Ndurance rubber outsole technology provides superior durability in high-wear areas to help get more out of the shoes.
  • Ultra Heel: These neutral running shoes boast a head-turning heel that performs as well as it looks. The Ultra Heel design hugs the back of the foot for a snug, supportive fit. This unique heel works alongside the bootie upper for all-day comfort.
  • 8mm Drop: These lightweight shoes feature a heel-to-toe drop of approximately 8mm. Due to variances created during development and manufacturing processes, references to 8mm are approximate.
Bestseller No. 7
ALLSWIFIT Women's Walking Shoes Comfortable ActiveEase Running Tennis Athletic...
  • Exceptional Energy-Return: These women's running shoes come with a thick EVA foam midsole that cushions every footstep while delivering outstanding shock absorption upon landing.
  • Enhanced Stability: Constructed with an X-shaped TPU torsion plate placed in the midfoot area that effectively stabilizes the foot. Moreover, incorporated with the TPU film on the upper, these tennis shoes offer enhanced reinforcement and a snug fit.
  • Lightweight & Breathable: Designed with a 3D mesh fabric upper that keeps feet fresh and cool. Plus, these women’s lightweight sneakers provide flexible & effortless strides throughout the day.
  • Non-Slip Outsole: A patterned rubber outsole delivers great wear resistance for long-lasting durability while providing confident and surefooted strides.
  • Versatile Shoes: Whether you're walking, dressing for casual days, hitting the gym, dog walking, running, jogging, commuting, or just wearing them every day these shoes are the perfect go-to option.
Bestseller No. 8
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. 9
ASICS Women's Gel-Venture 8 Running Shoes, 7.5, Black/Ivory
  • GEL Technology: Cushioning provides excellent shock absorption
  • Re-engineered outsole lugs for better off-road traction:
  • Wide fit:
  • The heel height is inches and the color is Black/Ivory
Bestseller No. 10
ASICS Women's Gel-Excite Trail 2 Running Shoes, 7, Lake Grey/Guava
  • Durable and breathable no-sew mesh upper:
  • AMPLIFOAM PLUS cushioning: Helps to improve durability and create a more flexible feel at footstrike
  • Rearfoot GEL technology: Improves impact absorption and creates a softer feeling at footstrike
  • OrthoLite sockliner: Provides soft step-in comfort
  • Trail-specific outsole: Helps provide better grip on off-road surfaces

Last update on 2025-03-23 / 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.