Theresa Makowski
Many modern companies produce specialized footwear to make it easier for people who have some health problems, such as bad knees, to exercise. In this article, I have collected the ten best running shoes for knee pain for men and women from a wide variety of brands. Such trainers have a special cushioning system, securely fix your feet, provide maximum comfort, and can even fit an additional orthopedic insole. You shouldn’t avoid your favorite activities if you have some health issues.
It is a known fact that knee pain can be caused not only by sports or household injuries but also by improperly picked shoes. For example, frequently repetitive stress on your joints during exercise (for example, jumping) can severely increase pain in the knees and spine.
To avoid this, you should choose the right athletic shoes that will reduce stress and support your feet’ arches. I made reviews on the best models and answered the most frequently asked questions to help you cope with the problem of sore knees. I recommend that you consult with your doctor before purchasing new shoes and obtain a sports permit from a specialist.
Top 10 Best Running Shoes for Knee Pain
Contents
- Top 10 Best Running Shoes for Knee Pain
- 1. Best Men’s Running Shoes for Bad Knees: Mizuno Men’s Wave Inspire 13
- 2. Best Women’s Running Shoes for Bad Knees: New Balance Women’s 880v10
- 3. Best Running Shoes for Bad Knees with Excellent Grip: Adidas Men’s Solar Boost
- 4. Good Running Shoes for Bad Knees with Perfect Amortization: New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 1080 V9
- 5. Universal Running Shoes for Knee Problems: Under Armour Men’s Charged Rogue
- 6. Trail Running Shoes for Knee Support: ASICS Women’s Gel-Venture 6
- 7. Good Running Shoes for Sore Knees for Beginners: Saucony Women’s VERSAFOAM Cohesion 12
- 8. All-Purpose Running Shoes Good for Knees: HOKA ONE ONE Men’s Bondi 6
- 9. Running Shoes for Arthritic Knees and Overpronation: Brooks Men’s Beast 18
- 10. The Most Affordable Shoes for Runners Knee: Nike Men’s Dart 12 MSL
- Most Common Questions About Knee Pain Running Shoes
- Best Results With the Perfect Running Shoes for Bad Knees
When in doubt about whether you need a new pair of running shoes or not, think back to how long ago you bought your current trainers. Even the best quality ones lose their properties over time. So maybe now is the time to get new athletic shoes!
1. Best Men’s Running Shoes for Bad Knees: Mizuno Men’s Wave Inspire 13
The Mizuno Men’s Wave Inspire 13 Running Shoe delivers a high level of foot stability while being lightweight (11 ounces). The patented Wave System provides superior cushioning and durability. The upper is made entirely of AIRmesh, traditional for Mizuno running shoes, for good ventilation.
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The forefoot outsole is made of blown rubber for lightweight cushioning. The midsole features u4icx technology, which contributes to the athlete’s quick start. The heel looks quite bulky, especially because of its shape. For athletes with wide feet, I recommend taking half a size up. However, the length of the model’s size corresponds to declared parameters. The product is available in 6 colors, and the design is very similar to the previous Mizuno models.
- Very flexible model;
- Feet are well ventilated;
- Budget-friendly.
- Those with wide feet should take a larger size.
2. Best Women’s Running Shoes for Bad Knees: New Balance Women’s 880v10
The 880v10 from New Balance is suitable for everyday wear and long-distance running. The updated midsole of this shoe deserves special attention. It was created using the ultra-modern Fresh Foam X material, soft yet responsive, and EVA foam inserts. This combination provides excellent cushioning, although it slightly increases the entire product’s weight (9.5 ounces).
The main outsole is made of dense rubber with specific coverage in the form of lungs. It ensures a reliable grip on almost any surface and good rebound. The insole perfectly supports your foot arch and the collar locks in the heel. All this guarantees your foot’s correct position in the shoe and helps to reduce the load on knee joints. The upper is made of breathable Hypoknit jersey. This mesh material is breathable, flexible, and provides adequate ventilation.
- Good grip;
- Reasonable price;
- A great model for those with wide feet.
- A bit heavy;
- The tongue may seem too thick.
3. Best Running Shoes for Bad Knees with Excellent Grip: Adidas Men’s Solar Boost
The Adidas Men’s Solar Boost Running Shoe is versatile trainers that are great for any hard surface. They have been specially designed for long-distance runners. The outsole of this model is made of Continental rubber. It provides a good grip even on wet or snowy surfaces. Perhaps that is why this model is rather heavy (12 ounces).
Patented Boost technology was used to create the midsole and Solar Propulsion Rail to create a stable base. The top looks a little out of the box. Instead of a breathable mesh, the manufacturer used a denser material, which creates a compression effect.
Simultaneously, the upper has a sock-like design, that is, the tongue does not move freely, but is fixed inside. Such a construction is not always good. If you have a very narrow foot, you will have to tighten the lacing very tightly so that the shoe fits snugly against your foot.
- Elastic cushioning;
- Good grip;
- Durable.
- Sock-like design;
- Insufficient ventilation.
4. Good Running Shoes for Bad Knees with Perfect Amortization: New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 1080 V9
All New Balance 1080 trainers have excellent cushioning. This product is very lightweight, with an average weight of only 9 ounces. Fresh Foam was used for the midsole, but the outsole feels firmer than the previous V8 model.
The main outsole is a solid bumpy rubber that feels firmer in the heel than in the forefoot. It results in better rebound and cushioning during landing. Besides, due to many lungs on the outsole, your body weight is more evenly distributed. It should be said that it is one of the few models with a large enough toe box, so it will be just a godsend for those with a wide foot.
The upper is made of Engineered Mesh, a soft and breathable material. Despite the overall comfort, the collar does not seem to be reliable enough. Moreover, the back part’s height could be higher: the sneaker ends right at the Achilles tendon.
- Wide toe box;
- Good bounce;
- Lightweight.
- The midsole seems too soft;
- Insufficient collar height.
5. Universal Running Shoes for Knee Problems: Under Armour Men’s Charged Rogue
Under Armor Men’s Charged Rogue Running Shoe can be called multifunctional trainers. Excellent cushioning and arch support allows you to run comfortably long distances, and reliable side support lets the athlete perform even agility drills. The upper is made of synthetic mesh. It is quite thin, but it does not stretch too much while running and provides good ventilation. The design of its toe box seemed a little narrow to me.
The outsole is a solid rubber covering with a thickened heel. Charged Cushioning in the midsole provides superior cushioning, reducing stress on knee joints when running on pavement. Despite the rather thick heel and additional inserts, this model is quite lightweight. A pair of men’s running shoes weighs 9.5 ounces. Especially important for those who prefer to run in the evening, this model has various reflective elements. With it, you can train safely, even near roads.
- Multifunctional;
- Reflective inserts;
- Lightweight;
- Inexpensive.
- Narrowish.
6. Trail Running Shoes for Knee Support: ASICS Women’s Gel-Venture 6
If you like cross-country jogging, hike a lot, and generally have a very active lifestyle, then ASICS Women’s Gel-Venture 6 Running-Shoes is worth a try. Despite its rather low price, this model provides the proper level of leg fixation, arch support, and cushioning. The upper is made of breathable mesh and reinforced with synthetic panels. It is a fairly lightweight model, weighing 9 ounces.
In general, it is not a universal model, but good trail running shoes. Perhaps its only drawback is weak sock protection from hitting a stone since it does not have a rock plate. If you usually run on pavement, be prepared for your sneakers to deteriorate faster than you expected. The rubber AHAR outsole provides a good grip on a trail, and the GEL midsole perfectly absorbs impacts, especially in the heel area.
- Soles do not lose elasticity over time;
- Perfect for trails;
- Budget-friendly.
- No rock plate;
- Not multifunctional.
7. Good Running Shoes for Sore Knees for Beginners: Saucony Women’s VERSAFOAM Cohesion 12
Another affordable shoe is the Saucony Women’s VERSAFOAM Cohesion 12. And while they are quite durable for long distances, they are primarily aimed at novice runners. The upper is made of mesh with rubber inserts for a more secure fit. There is no rock plate in a toe box to protect your toes from impact like the previous model. But the heel is perfectly fixed. Product weight is 9.3 ounces.
These trainers feel comfortable enough and moderately soft. The midsole is built with VersaFoam mesh for cushioning. Although it absorbs shock well, it seems like it lacks responsiveness, for example, for rapid acceleration. Its outsole is a solid piece of rubber with diagonal treads. In my opinion, they are not made deep enough to guarantee a good grip on any surface. I recommend running very carefully if wet paths.
- Good shock absorption;
- Great for beginner runners;
- Inexpensive.
- The toe part is not enhanced;
- The grip could be better.
8. All-Purpose Running Shoes Good for Knees: HOKA ONE ONE Men’s Bondi 6
Do not be intimidated by the unusual design of HOKA ONE ONE Men’s Bondi 6. They seem somewhat awkward only at first glance; in general, they do an excellent job. It is this model that provides the highest cushioning among the entire Hoka One One product line. That is why these shoes can be called versatile: they will protect your feet while running on any surface. The upper is made of lightweight mesh with quite large holes.
The midsole is soft enough to make the shoe feel comfortable, fast, and responsive. The manufacturer uses the so-called meta rocker technology. It feels like a sneaker pushes you forward, giving you an excellent rebound. This shoe is stable and reliable, although it can take a while to get used to such a thick sole. Because of it, the sneakers weigh quite a lot (12.1 ounces).
- Excellent shock absorption;
- Moderately soft;
- Suitable for running on any surface.
- Heavy;
- Unusual design.
9. Running Shoes for Arthritic Knees and Overpronation: Brooks Men’s Beast 18
Brooks Beast models are traditionally considered to be among the most stable and sustainable. Brooks Men’s Beast 18 does not boast attractive designs, but looks are a matter of taste. The main thing is that the shoes have excellent characteristics. This model is specially designed for those athletes who suffer from overpronation.
The sole of this product is particularly durable. There is HPR Plus rubber in a heel part and Flextra in the toes. In the midsole, the manufacturer used BioMoGo technology to ensure your foot’s correct position in the shoe. Probably because of all these technologies used, this model weighs a lot (13.3 ounces), which can affect long-distance running.
The upper part is highly breathable, ensuring adequate ventilation. This model is quite spacious, both in the toe box and in the center, there is enough space. But it is true to size.
- Stable;
- Flexible;
- Perfect for overpronation.
- Quite heavy;
- Unattractive design.
10. The Most Affordable Shoes for Runners Knee: Nike Men’s Dart 12 MSL
Even though Nike’s products are considered one of the most expensive globally, Nike Men’s Dart 12 MSL has an affordable price with quite good characteristics. In these shoes, you can run both on the grass and asphalt. A thick rubber outsole and a varied tread pattern provide excellent traction on any surface. For those with neutral pronation, arch support will be very comfortable.
The upper is made of breathable mesh. In general, the whole upper part seems too thin and unreliable. Its inner sleeve loses its appearance pretty quickly. On the other hand, your feet do not sweat in sneakers thanks to excellent ventilation. There are synthetic overlays on top to ensure better fixation of your foot. Overall, the shoe is relatively lightweight at 9.9 ounces, while the men’s models tend to weigh more.
- Universal;
- Lightweight;
- Good ventilation;
- Affordable price.
- The upper part is too thin.
Most Common Questions About Knee Pain Running Shoes
Besides choosing a specific shoe model, many athletes are also interested in general questions about running and joint health. In this section, I have answered the most popular and interesting questions from my readers.
Can your running shoes cause knee pain?
Yes, unfortunately, improperly fitted shoes can provoke many running injuries. A thin sole and weak cushioning do not protect your knees from overload. Besides, with various foot defects (for example, flat feet), shock loads are transmitted with each step to the knees, hip joint, and lower spine. Over time, inflammation develops in these places, causing pain.
Which type of running shoes is good for a bad knee?
Athletes with knee pains are advised to pick models with the highest cushioning and great arch support. But apart from that, you should pay attention to your pronation. Depending on its type (overpronation, supination / under pronation, or neutral), you should choose the right running shoe. If you have the first or second type, find a model that provides adequate support from the right side of your foot.
How to treat knee pain while running?
First of all, you need to stop training and give your knee a rest. It is advisable to raise it to an elevation, for example, put a pillow under your leg. Apply ice to it to relieve swelling and pain. Use an elastic bandage to provide additional support for your knee, and get pain relievers if you have severe pain. And be sure to contact a doctor for advice.
Can running help with bad knees?
In the acute phase, of course, it is better to restrict movement. However, some physical activity during injuries can help in your recovery. Just increase the load gradually. Try not to increase the distance by more than 10% weekly. Remember to warm up before exercising (at least 15 minutes), do all the movements correctly, and remember the importance of stretching after a workout.
Does running cause bad knees?
By itself, running, on the contrary, is good for joint health. However, it can worsen knee pain if you do wrong movements. Work on your running technique before tackling long distances. Only wear the right footwear: poor foot support or insufficient cushioning will only worsen your joints’ condition. And it is also especially important to be wise when choosing a location. Avoid running on pavement or concrete, and choose special paths, tamped ground, or grass.
Best Results With the Perfect Running Shoes for Bad Knees
Knee pain is not a reason to give up running. Buy quality shoes with good shock absorption and make sure they fit your foot type. Don’t run in shoes that are too worn out. In some cases, it is worth consulting a podiatrist and using special shoes or orthopedic insoles. I hope my reviews will help you decide on the right trainer model.
Have you experienced knee problems? Which running shoe was the best for you? How often do you change your trainers? If you have any questions regarding the choice of shoes, ask me in the comments section below.
Last update on 2022-11-15 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
