Best Running Shoes for Knee Pain

Last Updated on May 30, 2025 by Andy Walker

Knee pain can be a constant challenge—whether it’s caused by arthritis, injury, or strain from daily movement. This guide explores the best running shoes for relieving various types of knee pain, including runner’s knee (patellofemoral pain syndrome), IT band syndrome, arthritis-related pain, meniscus injuries, and general overuse or alignment-related discomfort. The right footwear can make a huge difference by improving joint alignment, reducing shock impact, and providing targeted support where it’s needed most.

We’ve selected top-rated shoes that help minimize pressure on the knees by offering features like cushioned soles, motion control, and stability enhancements. Whether you walk long distances, stand for hours, or are recovering from a knee injury, this list includes styles tailored for comfort and pain relief.

From athletic shoes to supportive walking footwear, these choices can help restore mobility, reduce inflammation, and make each step more comfortable.

Summary of Best Running Shoes for Knee Pain

Here are our picks for the best shoes for knee pain that you should consider:

Our Reviews of the Best Running Shoes for Knee Pain

Check out the detailed reviews below to help find the best running shoes if you have knee pain.

Hoka Bondi 9

Best for: Max cushioning and long-distance walking

The Hoka Bondi 9 builds on the legacy of the Bondi series as one of the most cushioned road shoes on the market—now redesigned for even better comfort and alignment. This updated model features a softer, more responsive midsole with a modified MetaRocker system that helps create a smoother heel-to-toe transition, reducing joint stress and knee strain. The extended heel geometry offers a broader landing zone, which helps support better gait mechanics and makes it ideal for individuals with overpronation or flat feet contributing to knee pain.

Unlike many max-cushioned shoes, the Bondi 9 maintains excellent stability despite its plush feel. It’s a top pick for people dealing with chronic IT band syndrome, arthritis, or recovering from orthopedic procedures. The upper is also reworked with more breathability and fewer pressure points for all-day comfort.

This model may not suit those looking for a lightweight or low-profile shoe, but for comfort-driven performance, it’s hard to beat.

Specs

• Revamped EVA midsole
• Early-stage MetaRocker
• Open-engineered mesh upper
• Heel-to-toe drop: 4mm
• Weight: ~10.5 oz (men’s)

Pros

• Softer, smoother cushioning
• Excellent joint protection
• Great for daily wear and recovery

Cons

• Slightly bulky
• Premium price point

Men’s version | Women’s version

Brooks Addiction Walker 2

Best for: Stability walking and overpronation control

The Brooks Addiction Walker 2 is a highly supportive walking shoe built for people who need motion control, especially those with flat feet, overpronation, or knee pain caused by poor alignment. It features an Extended Progressive Diagonal Rollbar, which guides your body back into its natural stride. This helps reduce stress on your knees, hips, and lower back.

The outsole is slip-resistant and the leather upper offers durability and structure, making it a reliable daily walking shoe for both casual and work settings. Its cushioning is firm but responsive, which helps stabilize every step and prevent wobbling that can aggravate joint discomfort.

While it lacks the trendy design of athletic sneakers, its orthopedic-level support makes it a go-to for people seeking serious knee relief. It’s also one of the few motion control shoes available in multiple widths, making it suitable for wider feet and custom orthotics.

Specs

• BioMoGo DNA midsole
• Extended Progressive Diagonal Rollbar
• Slip-resistant rubber outsole
• Supportive full-grain leather upper
• Weight: ~14.5 oz (men’s)

Pros

• Excellent motion control for overpronation
• Very stable and durable
• Comes in wide and extra-wide options

Cons

• Heavier than average walking shoes
• Less breathable than mesh-based shoes

Men’s version | Women’s version

Asics Gel-Kayano 32

Best for: Stability running with knee alignment issues

The Asics Gel-Kayano 32 is the latest in one of the most trusted stability shoe lines for runners and walkers with knee pain linked to overpronation and poor joint alignment. The 32nd edition features Asics’ updated 4D Guidance System, which helps stabilize the foot during motion without compromising comfort. This reduces unnecessary rotation and impact that often contributes to knee pain, especially on longer runs or brisk walks.

What sets this version apart is the newly engineered PureGEL cushioning in the rearfoot and softer FF BLAST™ PLUS ECO foam. Together, they deliver a bouncy yet controlled ride that absorbs shock and lessens stress on the knees, making it a strong pick for those with IT band issues or patellofemoral pain.

The fit is slightly snug, so it may not suit wide-footed users unless ordered in a wide version. But for runners or active walkers seeking advanced support with premium cushioning, this model delivers.

Specs

• 4D Guidance System
• FF BLAST™ PLUS ECO midsole foam
• Rearfoot PureGEL technology
• Engineered mesh upper
• Weight: ~10.5 oz (men’s)

Pros

• Great stability for runners and walkers
• Soft, responsive cushioning
• Reduces overpronation-related knee stress

Cons

• Higher price point
• Narrow fit for some users

Men’s version | Women’s version

New Balance 990v6

Best for: Lifestyle support and casual walking

The New Balance 990v6 is a heritage-inspired walking and casual shoe that blends premium comfort with orthopedic-grade support. It’s a great option for people dealing with mild to moderate knee pain caused by poor shock absorption or lack of arch structure in everyday footwear. This latest version updates the classic 990 with a redesigned FuelCell midsole, which adds more energy return while maintaining the ENCAP stability platform trusted by longtime fans.

While not as sporty as a running shoe, the 990v6 shines in versatility—it works well for commuting, standing at work, errands, or light walking. The durable outsole and secure heel counter help keep your gait aligned, reducing strain on knees over long periods.

This model runs slightly heavy and premium in price, but its craftsmanship and comfort justify the investment. It’s also made in the USA and available in multiple widths, which adds to its orthopedic appeal.

Specs

• ENCAP and FuelCell dual-density midsole
• Pigskin and mesh upper
• TPU heel stabilizer
• Blown rubber outsole
• Weight: ~13 oz (men’s)

Pros

• Strong mix of support and comfort
• Ideal for standing or walking long hours
• Available in wide and extra-wide sizes

Cons

• Heavy for some users
• Price reflects premium build

Men’s version | Women’s version

OOFOS OOmg Sport Low

Best for: Recovery and post-workout relief

The OOFOS OOmg Sport Low is a recovery shoe designed to reduce impact on joints, making it an excellent choice for people with knee pain stemming from arthritis, overuse, or post-surgical rehabilitation. Instead of traditional cushioning, it uses OOfoam technology, which absorbs 37% more impact than standard EVA foam. This helps ease stress on the knees, hips, and lower back with every step.

The Sport Low version features a more structured upper than the classic OOmg, offering improved foot containment while still feeling soft and accommodating. It’s also machine washable and features a rocker sole that promotes a natural stride—helpful for those with unstable gait patterns.

While it’s not built for high-intensity activity, this shoe is ideal for recovery days, walking around the house, or errands. It runs slightly large, and some may find the rocker design unusual at first—but it often becomes a go-to once broken in.

Specs

• OOfoam™ impact-absorbing midsole
• Closed-toe stretch mesh upper
• Patented rocker bottom
• Machine washable
• Weight: ~9 oz (men’s)

Pros

• Absorbs shock to protect knees and joints
• Lightweight and supportive
• Excellent for recovery and all-day wear

Cons

• Unusual rocker feel for first-time users
• Not suited for high-performance use

Men’s version | Women’s version