The 11 Best Running Shoes for Knee Pain in 2025, Tested

If you experience knee pain while running, it could be from incorrect running form, the type of surface you run on, or overdoing it in your running routine. But more often than not, the culprit is your shoes. Wearing the wrong kind of running shoes often leads to knee pain, either occasional or chronic. The best running shoes for knee pain should be comfortable and supportive. Look for thick, soft midsole cushioning that offers protective shock absorption for your joints.

To find the top running shoes for bad knees, we first consulted running and footwear experts to understand what key features make sneakers supportive. Then, we laced up and hit the ground running to test 24 expert-approved pairs. We completed at least two runs weekly for six weeks, evaluating the shoes for fit, comfort, cushioning, knee protection, responsiveness, stability, and overall value.

Credit: Amazon

Key Specs

Who They’re For

Best for runners who need motion control shoes for overpronation.

Why We Love Them

Altra’s Provision 7 Running Shoes combine cushioning, flexibility, and support, making them our top choice for alleviating knee pain. They feature a zero heel-to-toe drop, meaning the forefoot and heel are on the same level. This helped diminish our knee pain and left our legs feeling more energized on runs. We also noticed that the balanced cushioning in the midfoot felt equally supportive and springy.

The sole has flexible grooves that promote natural toe flexion, making our strides more aligned. And the shoes are built with medial support to minimize overpronation, or the inward rolling of your ankles as you stride. We also like that these shoes have the APMA Seal of Acceptance, which means that podiatrists determined that they help promote better foot health.

Potential Flaws

These shoes have a bit of a narrow fit, so we wouldn’t recommend them if you need wide shoes.
Zero drop running shoes may put extra strain on your calves, especially if you have flat feet.

Meet Our Testers

Both of our testers run on concrete in their neighborhoods two to three times a week. In the past, both testers have had sporadic knee pain due to old training injuries. These shoes helped alleviate current and prevent future knee pain while running.

Credit: Amazon

Key Specs

Who They’re For

Best if you need a durable shoe for everyday runs.

Why We Love Them

If you’re a daily runner and don’t want knee pain to prevent your practice, we recommend Saucony’s Guide 16 Sneakers. A spacious toe box gives us enough room for our toes to naturally spread out, while the snug fit around the ankle promotes even more stability. The midsole features plush cushioning that absorbs shock without feeling too squishy.

When wear-testing, we liked that they felt lightweight and responsive but still provided plenty of stability with each footstrike. We never felt like our feet and ankles were out of alignment. We also appreciate that the durable rubber outsole is tacky to enhance traction on all terrains. Plus, the shoes are vegan and made with recycled materials.

Potential Flaws

Credit: Zappos

Pros

Ultra-lightweight feel
Powerful energy return
Wide toe box

Cons

Not much ankle support
Upper feels a bit rough

Key Specs

Who They’re For

Best if you need a lightweight running shoe to help you run faster.

Why We Love Them

Be ready to run a personal best on race day with Saucony’s Endorphin Elite Running Shoes. During speedy runs, our joints felt well-protected from impact thanks to the firm yet bouncy midsole. The sole also features a carbon plate that promotes powerful energy return. Our runs were more efficient, with a rebound just as strong at the end of the run as it was at the beginning.

When practicing speedwork, you need a lightweight shoe. We love that these feel light as a feather while still providing a supportive, secure fit without slipping or sliding. Plus, the toe box has plenty of room to help us find an even more stable stride. We never experienced knee pain throughout testing, even while running a half marathon.

Potential Flaws

While the mesh upper is very lightweight and breathable, we found it to be a bit rough to the touch.
If you have especially unstable ankles, you may want to choose a stability running shoe for more support.

Meet Our Testers

Both of our testers run four to six days a week on roads, sidewalks, or trails. One tester trains for races from 5Ks to half marathons and includes track work once a week. Our other tester suffers from some general aches and pains in their knees and hips after running.

Brooks Ghost 15 Women's Road Running Shoes

Credit: Amazon

Key Specs

Who They’re For

Best if you need a stable, durable shoe to help you run safely on the road.

Why We Love Them

Brooks’ Ghost 15 Road Running Shoes seriously help keep knee pain at bay on the road. The moderately cushioned midsole is supportive and shock-absorbing without feeling bulky. We found that these minimized our knee pain, helping us run for longer. They also prevented shin splits in one tester and didn’t aggravate another tester’s pre-existing bunions.

During testing, we noticed that the lightweight and breathable mesh upper helps prevent sweaty feet from overheating. And we felt a springy responsiveness and effective energy return with each stride. Although these have less cushioning than other Brooks running shoes, they are still incredibly comfortable.

Potential Flaws

These shoes may not have enough balanced support if you tend to overpronate.

Meet Our Testers

Our testers run regularly two to three times a week outdoors on pavement or concrete. All of our testers suffer from some knee pain due to previous injuries and prioritize supportive running shoes with arch support.

These shoes offer supportive cushioning for those who want to prioritize their foot health.
Credit: Verywell Fit
These breathable shoes have a wide toe box, come in four widths, and offer great traction.
Credit: Verywell Fit

Credit: Amazon

Pros

High arch support
APMA Seal of Acceptance
Very stable sole

Key Specs

Who They’re For

Best for users who need strong orthopedic support and have the budget to invest.

Why We Love Them

MBT’s MTR-1500 II Running Shoes have a supportive and curved sole that absorbs shock and promotes a more efficient stride. We also immediately noticed that they felt exceptionally stable, with no side-to-side rolling. The arch support is high, and there’s lots of cushioning in the heel, which helps alleviate knee stress and pain. And we like that these shoes have the APMA Seal of Acceptance.

During testing, we loved the snug fit and firm support, which deliver a locked-in feel. Whether you’re practicing speedwork or going the distance, the shoe’s cushioning provides a nice springiness that gives a popped-up feeling with each step. And the cushioning is thick enough—even minimizing one tester’s shin splits.

Potential Flaws

While these shoes are very stable and firm, these features make them feel bulkier and heavier than other options we tested.

Meet Our Testers

One of our testers is just getting back into running and runs once or twice per week. They are prone to shin splints and plantar fasciitis, and feel some hip and knee pain if not properly supported. Our other tester runs between 25 and 35 miles a week and has nagging knee pain that often goes away after warming up.

Credit: New Balance

Key Specs

Who They’re For

Best for neutral runners who don’t need a lot of extra support.

Why We Love Them

New Balance’s FuelCell SuperComp Elite v3 Running Shoes feature a small drop and high arch support that balance your midfoot strikes. This, along with the plush midsole, helps absorb shock on all running surfaces. The curved outsole also helps generate energy return to push you forward with each stride. While running, we felt light on our feet and noticed relieved knee pain.

The built-in tongue provides a snug and secure fit. And the shoes fit tight around our heels, with no sliding or slipping, while offering plenty of room in the toe box for our toes to wiggle and spread. The plush cushioning feels cloud-like underfoot, supporting us on long- and short-distance runs.

Potential Flaws

We didn’t feel that these shoes had much lateral stability, so they wouldn’t be good for cross-training.
The seam on the top of the toes caused some rubbing and irritation, but this didn’t affect our overall comfort.

Meet Our Testers

One of our testers runs three to four times a week on a variety of surfaces like sidewalks, trails, or a track and has no knee issues. Our other tester runs between 25 and 35 miles a week on park trails or a treadmill and suffers from nagging knee pain that dissipates after they’re warmed up.

The New Balance FuelCell Supercomp Elite V3 has high arch support and a lace-up closure.

Verywell Fit / Alena Kharlamenko

Credit: Nike

Key Specs

Who They’re For

Best if you run in hot climates or are prone to sweaty feet.

Why We Love Them

Are your running shoes smelly from sweat? Nike’s InfinityRN 4 Running Shoes have an ultra-light, breathable upper (made from recycled materials) that promotes airflow and prevents overheating, so you can run stink-free in warm weather. We found them suitable for running on all terrains, including treadmills, concrete, and park trails.

During testing, we quickly realized that these were among the most comfortable running shoes we’ve ever worn. They made our treadmill running experience a lot more enjoyable. The shoe conforms to our foot shape and feels like a natural extension of our leg and foot. It even helps our legs and feet feel less fatigued. Just note that Nike recommends ordering a half-size up, and we agree based on our test.

Potential Flaws

These shoes are super breathable in warm weather, but aren’t protective enough for wet or cold conditions.

Meet Our Testers

One of our testers is new to running and runs at least once a week. They have had knee pain in the past, but nothing significant during the testing period. Our other tester runs four times a week, sometimes on sand. They have occasional knee and ankle pain during and after running.

Credit: On

Key Specs

Who They’re For

Best for distance runners looking for max cushioning and long term energy return.

Why We Love Them

Knee pain can quickly stop distance running, but a solid shoe can help you keep going. On Running’s Cloudmonster Running Shoes provide thick cushioning that promotes efficient strides and prevents fatigue as we log dozens of miles. The chunky yet light outsole has a mild curve that delivers smooth heel-to-toe transitions and springy energy return for longer distances.

During testing, we also noticed that the flexible mesh upper feels snug (but not too tight) for a secure, locked-in fit. This also helps with stability. Plus, we found that the grippy rubber outsole gives you even more sure-footedness on uneven terrain and wet surfaces.

Potential Flaws

These may not be as durable as other, more expensive running shoes. However, we had no quality issues throughout testing.

Meet Our Testers

Our tester runs a few times a week and experiences some knee soreness and is prone to shin splints. These max cushioning shoes helped alleviate these discomforts.

The On Men’s Cloudmonster Running Shoe has lace-up closures and plush cushioning for comfort.
Credit: Verywell Fit
On Running’s Cloudmonsters offer solid grip on wet surfaces and springy energy return.
Credit: Verywell Fit

Nike Structure 25 Women's Road Running Shoes

Credit: Nike

Key Specs

Who They’re For

Best if you need a well-cushioned shoe that’s suitable for both serious runs and running errands.

Why We Love Them

If you’re running errands after your training run, you might want shoes that are a little more stylish. We recommend Nike’s Structure 25 Running Shoes. They come in regular and wide widths and eight different colorways so you can definitely find a pair to suit your size and style. Plus, they’re comfortable and supportive, with plenty of cushioning in the midsole for ample shock absorption.

During testing, we felt like the mesh upper molded to our feet for a locked-in feel and secure stability. It’s also breathable enough to wear in warm weather. The toe box is wide enough that one of our testers, who typically wears wide shoes, accidentally got a regular width, and they still fit great.

Potential Flaws

These are a bit less springy than other responsive running shoes. Still, we were able to run efficiently and comfortably.

Meet Our Testers

Both our testers run two to three times a week outdoors or on a treadmill. One tester doesn’t have any regular knee issues but notices some soreness after particularly long runs. Our other tester suffers from some nagging knee pain due to a previous injury that is aggravated during running.

Credit: On Running

Key Specs

Who They’re For

Best if you’re just starting to run as a beginner, especially if you’ll be running on pavement.

Why We Love Them

If you’re just getting into running, we recommend On Running’s Cloudsurfer Running Shoes. They combine cushioning, comfort, and support. The fit is snug and stable without rubbing up against your Achilles tendon and causing chafing or discomfort. We noticed that the neutral arch support and plush midsole help with smooth strides and shock absorption—especially for pavement running.

While the cushioning is plush, it never felt unstable or bulky. We like that the pillow-like holes in the outsole compress one by one in sequence to provide a smooth transition from heel to toe-off. It’s worth noting that you may want to consider a half-size up if your feet swell a lot on longer runs.

Potential Flaws

These shoes are not the best option for speedwork or quick direction changes.

Meet Our Testers

Both of our testers run three to five times a week on pavement with some runs on a track. They both suffer from some knee soreness along with tight calves or hip flexors after more mileage.

Credit: Hoka

Cons

Slightly bulky
Not as responsive

Key Specs

Who They’re For

Best for trail runners who run on a variety of terrains.

Why We Love Them

Trail running shoes—like Hoka’s Stinson 7 Sneakers—give you more traction and stability as you traverse uneven, slippery, rocky terrain. They feature brand-specific technology designed to prevent excessive overpronation and add lateral (side-to-side) stability. Plus, plush cushioning and multi-directional lugs add shock absorption and traction for even more support on uneven terrain.

During testing, we felt completely confident navigating rough terrain, including sandy, wet conditions. The upper wraps snugly around our feet for a locked-in feel, while the rugged toe cap offers protection from rocks, sticks, and other rough elements. And we recommend these even more confidently since they’re AMPA-approved.

Potential Flaws

Since they’re so rugged and durable, these may feel slightly bulky as regular running shoes.
Designed for protection on the trail, these are less responsive than treadmill or road-running shoes.

Meet Our Testers

Our testers both run three to five times a week on a variety of surfaces, including boardwalk, concrete, sand, and trails. One of our testers has slight overpronation and often looks for stability shoes to help. Our other tester has had knee and ankle pain in the past that often flares at the beginning of a run but gets better after they’re warmed up.

Running Shoes for Knee Pain We Also Tested

In total, we tested 24 shoes, but only 11 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.

Hoka’s Bondi 8 Running Shoes are well-cushioned and great for wide feet. We appreciate the breathable upper and plush midsole that support our joints. The super thick cushioning has a tradeoff, though—the shoes feel very heavy and make our legs feel fatigued rather than refreshed.
Asics’ Gel-Kayano 29 Running Shoes feel incredibly stable. Our feet didn’t slip or slide around at all. Unfortunately, we didn’t feel there was enough cushioning in the sole to make them comfortable or responsive.

The running shoes, 24 in total, were put to the test on various terrains.

Verywell Fit

What to Look for When Shopping for Running Shoes for Knee Pain

Cushioning: Wearing the wrong running shoes, such as ones with inadequate support or cushioning, can lead to knee pain that would have been preventable with the proper shoes. Your running shoes should absorb most of the shock from your feet hitting the ground, says physical therapist Robert Gillanders, PT, DPT. 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. But keep in mind that for people with instability issues, too high of a cushion can lead to instability and injury.
Durability: You want to choose a durable shoe 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. Generally, you should replace your running shoes about every 300 to 400 miles, because the cushioning and support will break down over time. If you have chronic injury history at your knees, hips, or ankles, you may want to change your shoes more frequently.
Fit: Physical therapists and other movement experts can evaluate runners to determine the best shoes for their gait, foot type, and injury history to be able to return to pain-free running, says Gillanders. Your running shoes 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.
Heel-to-Toe Drop: 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 your cadence, foot strike, and what part of your body takes on the load or impact of each step. A gait analysis at a specialty running store or with a physical therapist can help determine your foot strike and the best shoes for you. A lower heel-to-toe drop is often better for runners who want a midfoot or forefoot strike and put less pressure on your knees and hips, while the higher drop encourages rearfoot striking.
Weight: To help prevent knee pain, you’ll want a shoe with ample cushioning and good support, which often will increase the shoe’s weight. However, thanks to today’s shoe technology, it’s possible for a shoe to be lightweight and still supportive and well-cushioned. If you look for shoes that weigh somewhere between 6 and 12 ounces, you’ll get a range of options that are comfortable and supportive without being too flimsy or bulky.
Arch Support: Proper arch support in your running shoes will keep your feet, ankles, and knees properly aligned, stable, and supported. Keeping your feet aligned and supported reduces strain on your knees. Look for shoes with molded arch supports or shoes that allow for custom orthotics to be inserted.

The Nike Structure 25 Road Running Shoes are versatile and comfortable with plush cushioning.

Verywell Fit

How We Tested Running Shoes for Knee Pain

To choose the best running shoes for knee pain, we tested 24 pairs over six weeks, hitting trails, paths, roads, and treadmills. We often have two people test each shoe to see how they fit and feel on different foot types. During testing, we evaluate each shoe based on the following criteria.

Fit: When we first try the shoes on, we check that there’s room in the toe box for our toes to spread and wiggle. We also note how the shoe feels around our heel and how the laces feel across the top of our foot and around our midfoot. We use these observations to help determine if the shoe runs large, small, or true to size. During test runs, we make note of any tingling, numbness, or blisters that may indicate poor fit.
Cushioning: During test runs, we note whether the midsole cushioning feels thick and plush or thin and firm. Regardless of the cushioning level, does the shoe absorb the impact of our footstrike? Do our knees hurt more or less after a typical run? We only recommend shoes with enough cushioning to prevent knee pain.
Comfort: The comfort of a shoe is related to its fit and partly dependent on personal preference. To evaluate comfort, we note if the shoe feels breathable and keeps our feet at a comfortable temperature. We check if our toes jam into the front or top of the shoe and if there are any irritating seams or fabrics.
Responsiveness: A responsive shoe has elements of springiness that propel us forward with each step. During our test runs, we determine if the shoe “pops up” or bounces as we step. We prioritize shoes that absorb shock and provide smooth transitions because these features relieve knee pain and pressure.
Stability: While running in each pair of shoes, we pay attention to how the arch and midsole feel, as well as the fit around the heel. Does our heel slip up and down? Does our foot slide around in the shoe? Does the sole of the shoe feel solid and grounded with each step? How do the shoes perform on uneven terrain like paths or gravel?
Overall Value: To assign each shoe a value score, we take a look at the cost of the shoes only after we’ve tested and evaluated for all the other categories. Based on the shoe’s performance, we evaluate if the shoes are priced accurately.

Shoe testing includes cutting and examining the layers found in each pair.

Verywell Fit

Our Experts

We consulted experts at every stage while researching and testing shoes for this story. Podiatrists and physical therapists provided guidance on how running shoes should fit and feel, as well as features to look for that would support knees and other joints.

Robert Gillanders, PT, DPT, physical therapist in Charlottesville, Virginia
Jack Hackett, head coach and founder of Infinity Running Company
Brent Rader, DPT, physical therapist at Mid-Maryland Musculoskeletal Institute
Brandon Schmitt, DPT, ATC, physical therapist in White Plains, New York
Diana Valencia, DPM, podiatrist at NYC Foot & Ankle Center

The Saucony Endorphin Elite Running Shoes offer an ultra-lightweight feel and wide toe box.

Verywell Fit

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of running shoe is best for knee pain?

People who are prone to knee pain generally benefit from a running shoe with extra cushioning to reduce impact and solid support to promote a stable gait. A spacious toe box that provides additional comfort and stability is also helpful.

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, get a running gait analysis done at a running store to ensure you get the right shoes for your foot type.

What can you expect to pay for running shoes for knee pain?

A quality pair of running shoes for knee pain usually costs anywhere from $100 to $170, but if you want to save money, older models have many of the same features at a discounted price. The budget-friendliest pairs on our list are often available for about $100.

Are cushioned running shoes good or bad for knee pain?

It depends on the cause of your knee pain, but in general cushioned shoes can be helpful for shock absorption and reducing knee pain. For example, a study of individuals with knee osteoarthritis found that cushioned shoes helped reduce the amount of pain in the affected knee and allowed them to walk longer each day compared to a control group. But if a cushioned shoe starts to increase instability on a walk or run, this may set you up for injuries—and potentially more knee pain.

Running shoes are put to the test on trails and against various terrains.

Verywell Fit

Why Trust Verywell Fit

Christine Luff, ACE-CPT, is a 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. Luff relied on her personal experience as well as testing insights from our lab to create this list.

The 11 Best Running Shoes for Knee Pain in 2025, Tested

Key Specs

Who They’re For

Why We Love Them

Potential Flaws

Meet Our Testers

Key Specs

Who They’re For

Why We Love Them

Potential Flaws

Key Specs

Who They’re For

Why We Love Them

Potential Flaws

Meet Our Testers

Key Specs

Who They’re For

Why We Love Them

Potential Flaws

Meet Our Testers

Key Specs

Who They’re For

Why We Love Them

Potential Flaws

Meet Our Testers

Key Specs

Who They’re For

Why We Love Them

Potential Flaws

Meet Our Testers

Key Specs

Who They’re For

Why We Love Them

Potential Flaws

Meet Our Testers

Key Specs

Who They’re For

Why We Love Them

Potential Flaws

Meet Our Testers

Key Specs

Who They’re For

Why We Love Them

Potential Flaws

Meet Our Testers

Key Specs

Who They’re For

Why We Love Them

Potential Flaws

Meet Our Testers

Key Specs

Who They’re For

Why We Love Them

Potential Flaws

Meet Our Testers

Running Shoes for Knee Pain We Also Tested

What to Look for When Shopping for Running Shoes for Knee Pain

How We Tested Running Shoes for Knee Pain

Our Experts

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of running shoe is best for knee pain?

Can running shoes affect your knees?

What can you expect to pay for running shoes for knee pain?

Are cushioned running shoes good or bad for knee pain?

Why Trust Verywell Fit

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