7 Best Running Shoes for Bad Knees

In a Hurry? Editors choice:
Hoka One One Clifton 8
Test Winner: Hoka One One Clifton 8
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The Best Shoe For Bad Knee's in 2021 is the Hoka One One Clifton 8.

We reviewed and tested many impressive options. The Hoka One One Clifton 8 outperformed in all categories. What put this shoe ahead is the combination of, support, performance, comfort, durability, and value.

Read our full reviews below.

Standout Picks

Incredibly versatile, perfect for speed as well.
A neutral trainer and a stability shoe.
Don't have to sacrifice speed for additional support and stability.
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Provides you with stability during your runs
Unmatched cushioning and knee support.
Higher durability and supportive features make it a perfect option for distance.
Amazon Link
A top stability shoe for running,

Criteria Used for Evaluation

Support

As some knee problems can actually stem from issues with motion control or lack of proper stability, many of our choices are also good for providing other needed support. This footwear can be suitable for other conditions such as overpronation or underpronation.

Running without the necessary amount of stability needed for these types of foot conditions can actually add to the stress on the knee, causing more issues and further discomfort while running.

So, be sure you follow these criteria we laid out to find the best shoes for runners knee.

Comfort

Really, who wants to run in a shoe that is terribly uncomfortable? Right, nobody wants that. Each of our picks have their own proprietary technologies when it comes to upper and underfoot comfort, but most have many things in common with each other.

The models on our list have to provide enough underfoot comfort to alleviate some of the stress that will transfer to the knee while running.

With models built around things like DNA technology, REVlite midsole and Gel cushioning, our choices are designed with comfort in mind

Protection

The best running shoes for knee pain need to protect the wearer from experiencing pain in the first place. This can take the form of extra shock absorption but can also involve gait stabilization or a tight fit.

However this is accomplished, the important thing is that the wearer no longer suffers from any chronic pain or soreness.

Aside from this, it's also important for any reputable pair of running shoes to protect the wearer's feet from a variety of hazards. In addition to knee pain, pains from other repetitive stress injuries need to be prevented. Protection from the elements is another important design aspect, especially if the wearer is interested in hiking or trail running.

Durability

They have to last as long as they are expected, bottom line. Digging deeper into it, if you have a pair that starts to fall apart right in the middle of a long run, there is a real potential for some kind of injury there.

It could be a fall caused by the sole peeling off, the construction failing, causing a lack of the much needed support.

The options we have chosen for our list of best choices have all passed the durability test, when it comes to major issues which might affect their function and performance.

Shock Absorption

Shock absorption is super important when it comes to choosing a pair of running shoes for people with knee pain.

While the stability and support that the shoes on our list offer the runner can help to keep your foot in proper placement while you run, a good shock absorption system will transfer some of the impact from each foot strike to the shoe instead of your body. This means that not only your knees but your hips and ankles as well will receive less wear and tear.

Top 7 Running Shoes for Bad Knees

1. Hoka One One Clifton 8

Where to buy
HOKA ONE ONE Men's Clifton 8 Running Shoe
HOKA ONE ONE Men's Clifton 8 Running Shoe
HOKA ONE ONE Men's Clifton 8 Running Shoe
Amazon Link

Incredibly versatile, perfect for speed as well.

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What makes Hoka stand out is the construction of its midsole. This super thick platform midsole is composed of a layer of Durable full-length EVA foam for a comfortable ride and easy transitions. This also results in very good shock absorption. It also boasts a grippy rubber outsole that transitions easily from treadmills to trails and provides a good deal of shock absorption as well.

Runners also love that this supportive design boasts a lightweight upper that keeps your feet cool and dry. It is composed of stretchy mesh materials that contour to the shape of your foot and work to lift sweat and hot air away from your feet where it quickly evaporates on the surface.

It is important to note that Hoka comes in at a pretty steep price The durable EVA foam and the rubber outsole are built to last hundreds of miles before they start to show even a little bit of wear and tear. Plus, they come in a wide variety of unique color options and designs that are worth checking out.

2. Brooks Adrenaline GTS 21

Where to buy
Brooks Men's Adrenaline GTS 21
Brooks Men's Adrenaline GTS 21
Brooks Men's Adrenaline GTS 21
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A neutral trainer and a stability shoe.

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Runners can expect a high level of cushioning and support in the midsole of this design. It is composed of a blend of Brooks’ BioMoGo DNA and DNA LOFT foam materials. This midsole design works to absorb the impact when running on hard surfaces through all stages of your gait to keep your feet, ankles, and knees protected.

This option also includes a guide rail system to help with issues such as overpronation. By gently guiding your foot to strike the pavement evenly, this smart midsole reduces the shock to your knees and can prevent pain from happening.

This design from Brooks offers a lightweight and responsive design that is good for long distances and for speed. It is made from lightweight materials that help to guide your foot to an even gait which will cut down on pain.

3. Mizuno Wave Rider 25

Where to buy
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Mizuno Wave Rider Mizuno Women Wave Rider 25
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Don't have to sacrifice speed for additional support and stability.

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They are highly responsive and allow you to maintain your space and agility throughout your runs. Their flexible nature combined with the U4icX cushioning technology they utilize allows them to maintain the same levels of comfort during your entire run.

The MIZUNO ENERZY system gives impressive energy returns with an excellent cushion.
Support for forward-momentum is given via the Mizuno Wave shoe tech. The uppers are 100% synthetic, with the same for an inner liner, breathability is ok. The sole is a tough rubber and traction/grip is good.

These shoes have a nice sleek design and come in several options to allow you to select any color or a different pattern since they can be used as casual shoes too.

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4. Saucony Cohesion 14

Where to buy
Saucony Womens Cohesion 14 Running Shoe
Saucony Womens Cohesion 14 Running Shoe
Saucony Womens Cohesion 14 Running Shoe
Amazon Link

Provides you with stability during your runs

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These shoes are lightweight, comfortable, and well-cushioned. They have an injection-molded EVA midsole for support and utilize GRID technology for shock absorption.

These s come with breathable mesh uppers that will keep your feet cool and dry as well as prevent blisters from forming.

This option is really budget-friendly and great for almost all runners. They are comfortable and have extra cushioning to give you maximum support. Good for those with knee issues.

5. Hoka One One Bondi 7

HOKA ONE ONE Men's Bondi 7
HOKA ONE ONE Men's Bondi 7
HOKA ONE ONE Men's Bondi 7
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Unmatched cushioning and knee support.

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The most important feature to note about this design is that it boasts an impressive 33 mm stack height in the midsole. This higher stable is heavier than most and looks a little clunky, but few trainers are able to achieve the level of cushioning and impact absorption of the Bondi 7. If you can get past the initial clunk, your knees will thank you!

We also love the construction of the upper of the Bondi 7. It provides runners with a structured upper that is composed of mesh materials for breathability as well as synthetic overlays for additional support. It even offers a memory foam collar for extra comfort and locks your foot in place as you train.

It’s a little heavier and clunkier than sporty trainers designed for speed, but few shoes are able to provide the same level of stability and support as the Bondi 7

6. Brooks Glycerin 19

Where to buy
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Brooks Glycerin 19
Brooks Glycerin 19
Brooks Glycerin 19
Amazon Link

Higher durability and supportive features make it a perfect option for distance.

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What makes this design stand out from the pack of other Brooks trainers is the construction of the midsole. It is made from a thick layer of DNA LOFT foam materials that you can feel the minute you slip your foot inside of this shoe. It offers a springy ride that makes hard and unforgiving sidewalks feel like marshmallows.

Runners also love the construction of the upper of this design. It offers an internal stretch bootie that locks your foot in place for smoother movements and transitions. The upper is composed of breathable mesh materials with synthetic overlays for added stability and support on those long runs.

While this design is great for long distances, it’s important to note that it is a little on the heavy side. It weighs in at just over 10 ounces, which may slow you down a little bit. However, if you are in the market for an incredible stability trainer that is made to protect and comfort your knees over a long distance, you can’t go wrong with the Brooks Glycerin 19!

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7. Asics Gel Kayano 27

Where to buy
ASICS Mens Gel-Kayano 27
ASICS Mens Gel-Kayano 27
ASICS Mens Gel-Kayano 27
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A top stability shoe for running,

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The comfort of the Kayano 27 was made for runners who require more support. The stability factor is what really makes these such a great option for those with knee problems, You get that famous ASIC's gel cushioning, which absorbs a lot of shock from the impact on the terrain.

In addition, the FluidFit seamless upper removes the chance of irritation. Along with the secure feel of the upper, the lacing system and the exoskeleton of the heel keep feet secure inside the shoe. The grip and traction control are responsive and reliable.

Durability: Users mention this shoe holds up quite well in the long run, These are solid, well-built runners that will give the support needed to relieve some of that knee pain.

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