The 11 Best Shoes for Knee Pain, According to an Expert

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Knee pain is frustrating and can aggravate every part of your day. Aside from the fact that it just hurts, there’s little rest for a sore knee — walking around, going up and down the stairs, and every movement is painful. However, you can mitigate some of that irritation by finding the best shoes for knee pain that serve your needs. 

Finding the right shoes for knee pain begins with knowing the source of your discomfort, which can vary, says Dr. Mark Mendeszoon, a podiatrist and owner of Achilles Running Shop in Pennsylvania. Overuse injuries are one of the most common causes. “Most overuse injuries are related to faulty biomechanics in which people may develop muscle imbalances, stress on tendons, or bones secondary to the foot being either too flat (hyper-pronated) or too high of an arch (caved foot),” he says. Overuse injuries can include patella tendonitis, patellofemoral stress syndrome, patella tracking, hamstring and quadricep muscle injuries, or tendonitis and IT band syndrome. Other causes of knee pain can include arthritis or common foot ailments, such as plantar fasciitis, bunions, or hammertoes that alter your gait pattern which can affect the knee.

Shoes alone are not going to fix knee pain, but they can help reduce discomfort or at least avoid aggravating the pain by properly aligning the foot, supporting joints, and diffusing pressure away from the knee. Whether you face temporary knee pain from an injury or long-term discomfort with arthritis, the wrong shoes may aggravate the problem, but appropriate shoes for knee pain can make all the difference. It’s important to choose your footwear carefully according to your needs. If you have a job that requires standing all day, you need dress shoes for work, or you’re in the market for basketball shoes or the best tennis shoes for knee pain, there are several factors to consider when shopping for the best shoes for knee pain.

While you may expect that the only shoes for knee pain are orthopedic shoes with lots of thick cushioning, you can actually find plenty of shoes for all types of occasions. There are specialized shoes for a variety of sports, like Nike golf shoes, pickleball shoes, and cushioned running shoes. Casual shoes, dress shoes, hiking boots, and even walking sandals can be found for both men and women in styles that support your joints and minimize knee pain when you’re in shoes standing all day.

When shopping for shoes for knee pain, look for shoes with support and cushioning that keep your feet properly aligned. If you have other compounding concerns in addition to knee pain, there are options for the best shoes for knee and back pain, the best shoes for hip and knee pain, or along with dual support shoes for shoes for plantar fasciitis. An expert’s look at your foot, stride, and general biomechanics is the best bet for getting a shoe that works for you.

Below, shop the best shoes for knee pain, as recommended by a podiatrist.

Best Walking Shoes for Knee Pain

New Balance 990v6 Sneakers

Size Range: 7-16 men’s; 5-12 women’s
Colorways Available: Navy, Gray, Black
Pros: Available in three widths, responsive cushioning 
Cons: Sizing runs large
Amazon Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.5/5 stars
New Balance Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.5/5 stars

$199.99 Buy Men’s At Amazon

$199.99 Buy Women’s At Amazon

$199.99 Buy Men’s At New Balance

$199.99 Buy Women’s AT New Balance

The best New Balance shoes are well known for supportive cushioning and a range of sizing for several width options. The trendy 990v6 walking shoe for men and women comes equipped with responsive midsole cushioning to increase energy return with every step, which softens the impact on the joints and fights fatigue on long walks. The insoles are removable if you require custom orthotics and the shoes are available in standard, wide, and extra wide sizes. If you’re in between sizes, New Balance recommends that you size down since this model runs large. 

What Reviewers Say: “I love these shoes…..sooo comfortable!! My knee pain was gone in a week!!! Please make these in other colors!!!”

Price upon publish date of this article: $199.99

Best Casual Shoe for Knee Pain

Oofos Oomg Eezee Low Shoe

Size Range: 8-14 men’s; 5-12 women’s
Colorways Available: Six color combinations
Pros: Machine washable, Cushioned arch support 
Cons: The fit may be snug so it’s recommended that you buy a half size up
Oofos Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.7/5 stars

$129.95 Buy Now Men’s At Oofos

$129.95 Buy Now WomeN’S AT OOFOS

Perfect for every day or casual weekend wear, these slip-on sneakers from Oofos provide plenty of support for daily living. Like other Oofos shoes, the Eezee Low Shoes have OoFoam technology that absorbs more shock than typical shoes, which softens the impact of each step and reduces the stress on your knees. A stretchy, slip-on upper makes these best shoes for knee and foot pain simple to put on and take off, and also make for easy-packing travel shoes. The grippy, rubber outsole has a slight rocker design that reduces fatigue and keeps every step in alignment.

What testers say: “My son bought me a pair of Oofos right after my total knee replacement. From the first time I tried them on they gave me relief. I felt balanced and it felt like pressure on my knee was removed! I have a high arch and I usually cannot wear shoes that come up so far on the front of my foot, but these stretched on and held my foot snugly in place comfortably!”

Price upon publish date of this article: $129.95

Best Court Shoes for Knee Pain

NikeCourt Air Zoom Vapor 11 Hard Court Tennis Shoes

Size Range: 5-15 men’s; 5-12 women’s
Colorways Available: 6 colors
Pros: Molded sidewall for stability
Cons: Low arch support
Nike Top Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.6/5 stars

On Sale 25% off

$127.97 Buy Men’s At Nike

$170 Buy Women’s At Nike

If you play tennis or other court sports, the quick stops and starts and lateral movements can put a lot of stress on your knees that can aggravate pain or cause even more. The Zoom Vapor 11 court shoes from Nike have a molded side wall for lateral stability and lots of midsole cushioning to support your knees. There’s also Zoom Air unit in the forefoot that adds an extra spring in your step when you’re moving around the court. For even more stability, this version of the Vapor shoe line is designed a little lower to the ground and its thick tread outsole offers plenty of traction when sliding. One downside is that these shoes have low arch support, so they may not bode well for as shoes for high arches.

What testers say: “Great all-around shoe. Stable, comfortable and lightweight as you play tennis. The only con is you need to break them in unlike the previous Vapors. Like, two days of tennis and then you’re good to go.”

Price upon publish date of this article: $170

Best Running Shoes for Knee Pain

Brooks Adrenaline GTS 23 Running Shoes

Size Range: 7-15 men’s; 5-13 women’s
Colorways Available: 14 color combinations
Pros: APMA Seal of Acceptance, GuideRails support system
Cons: The arch support may be too high for some wearers
Amazon Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.5/5 stars

$138 Buy Men’s At Amazon

$139.95 Buy Women’s At Amazon

$140 Buy Men’s At Brooks

$140 Buy Women’s At Brooks

Brooks Running shoes are often recommended by podiatrists and physical therapists for those suffering with knee pain, but also make for some of the best cross-training shoes for knee pain. The Adrenaline GTS shoes are among the best cushioned running shoes for joint discomfort and boast the APMA Seal of Acceptance. The Brooks’ signature GuideRails support system provides rigid support in the back half of the shoe to keep your foot aligned for a natural stride. It minimizes excess side to side motion that can put too much stress on your knees. This newest version of the popular GTS shoe has even lighter weight midsole cushioning than previous versions. It comes in 14 color combinations and four widths for extra room. 

What testers say: “I’m a big guy who frequently has knee issues. I was having knee problems with an older pair of shoes, so I bought these online. They fit great and took just a couple of runs to break them in. Now I feel great running. No more knee problems.”

Price upon publish date of this article: $138

Best Sandals for Knee Pain

Vionic Rejuvenate Recovery Sandals

Size Range: 5-14 women’s; 7.5-12.5 men’s
Colorways Available: 9 colors 
Pros: Adjustable strap, high side wall for lateral support 
Cons: Only offered in one width
Amazon Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.5/5 stars
Vionic Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.6/5 stars

$79.95 Buy Now At Amazon

$79.95 Buy Now At Vionic

Vionic is a brand well known for support and cushioning, and their sandals are no exception. These slide sandals are best for recovering after tough workouts but are also comfortable enough to wear whenever your feet and joints need some support. The top strap is padded for minimal rubbing and can be adjusted for a perfect fit. There’s also a molded footbed with a deep heel cup to aid in stability and proper foot alignment, and the insole has a high side wall to protect from overpronation. These recovery slides can also help alleviate pain from other foot concerns, such as plantar fasciitis or achilles tendonitis.

What Reviewers Say: “The very day I put on my first pair of Vionic slides (this is my second pair) my chronic knee pain was gone, and has never returned.”

Price upon publish date of this article: $79.95

Best Men’s Dress Shoes for Knee Pain

Orthofeet Men’s Gramercy Oxford Dress Shoes

Size Range: 7-14 men’s
Colorways Available: Black
Pros: Four widths available, adjustable arch support
Cons: Only come in one color
Zappos Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.8/5 stars

$144.95 Buy Now At ZAppos

$109.95 Buy Now At Orthofeet

When you have knee pain, the best dress shoes for knee pain can help you get through your work day with minimal discomfort. These Oxford dress shoes from Orthofeet are designed to support and align your feet for good posture as well as minimize knee and ankle strain. The mild rocker outsole helps to reduce joint strain and allow for smooth transitions with each stride, while an antimicrobial foam insole provides soft landings. A unique feature of these shoes is that they allow you to adjust the arch support and they come in four different widths for appropriate sizing. They also come with an additional arch booster insert if you need extra arch support.

What testers say: “This is my second pair of these shoes. The style is good for everyday wear and dress. They fit great. They don’t need breaking in, they’re ready to go.”

Price upon publish date of this article: $109.95

Best Women’s Dress Shoes for Knee Pain

Drew Summer Women’s Pump

Size Range: 5-13 women’s
Colorways Available: Black, Navy, Pewter
Pros: Removable insole, available in four widths
Cons: Only three colors available
Amazon Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.5/5 stars

$109.99 Buy Now At Amazon

Mary Jane-style pumps are a timeless design favored by many and these shoes from Drew provide the comfort you need if you face knee pain. They have a cushioned, supportive insole for built-in arch support, though it is removable if you need to insert your own custom orthotics. The hook and loop closure is easy to adjust for a snug fit and a rounded, wide toe box keeps feet and toes from feeling pinched and provides pressure relief. These pumps also feature a firm heel counter to provide plenty of all-day stability.

What testers say: “Very comfortable. I have a hard time finding shoes, especially dress ones, that fit my wide foot. They don’t pinch my toes. These are perfect.”

Price upon publish date of this article: $109.99

Best Hiking Shoes for Knee Pain

Merrell Moab 3 Mid Waterproof Hiking Boots

Size Range: 7-16 men’s; 5-12 women’s
Colorways Available: Nine colors available
Pros: Waterproof, removable insole that contours to your foot
Cons: Recommended to order a size up
Amazon Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.5/5 stars
Merrell Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.6/5 stars

On Sale 24% off

$109.95 Buy Men’s At AMazon

$74.77 Buy Women’s At Amazon

$150 Buy Men’s at Merrell

$150 Buy Women’s At Merrell

These hiking boots from Merrell, a leader in outdoor active footwear, sit at mid-height for ankle support and shock absorption. The cushioned footbed contours to the foot to lock your stance in place, along with a reinforced heel for added terrain stability and shock absorption. This version of the Moab hiking boot for men and women is extra durable, due to its waterproof design and rubber cap that protects the heel and toe. Many reviewers recommend sizing up by a half or full size for your best fit, which can also allow room to layer with hiking socks.

What testers say: “I’m so glad I bought the Moab 3. I do a lot of walking on uneven ground and my knees and ankles feel well supported no matter the terrain. No breaking in required and they are so light it feels as if I’m wearing a pair of running shoes. Excellent choice!”

Price upon publish date of this article: $74.77

Best Golf Shoes for Knee Pain

Ecco Biom Hybrid 4 Sneakers

Size Range: 5-14.5 Men’s; 5-11.5 Women’s
Colorways Available: 11 different color options
Pros: Often worn by pro golfers, Waterproof, Washable insole
Cons: May not be as durable as other golf shoes
Amazon Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.5/5 stars

$219.95 Buy Men’s At Amazon

$109 Buy Women’s At Amazon

Knee pain can quickly derail a round of golf, so a supportive pair of shoes is essential. Ecco shoes are worn by pro golfers, such as Fred Couples, for their expertly cushioned comfort. The outsole grip is strong enough to maintain stability while swinging a golf club, thanks to plastic inserts on each side of the shoe that provide rotational support and reduce strain on the knees. The removable insole is washable and made with a temperature regulating technology to keep your feet cool and comfortable, and the wide toe box is great for accommodating swollen feet or bunions.

What testers say: “I walk an 11km golf course in these and they are so comfortable and incredibly stable walking over uneven terrain. I feel that their support not only helps my feet but reduces the stresses on my knees.”

Price upon publish date of this article: $109

Best Shoes for Knee Pain and Standing

Hoka Arahi 6 Sneakers

Size Range: 7-15 men’s; 5-12 women’s
Colorways Available: 13 different color combinations 
Pros: Overpronation control, APMA Seal of Acceptance
Cons: Sizing runs narrow
Zappos Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.8/5 stars
Dicks Sporting Goods Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.6/5 stars

$139.95 Buy Men’s At Zappos

$139.95 Buy Women’s At Zappos

$139.99 Buy Men’s At Dick’s Sporting Goods

$139.99 Buy Women’s At Dick’s Sporting Goods

Podiatrists love Hokas for knee pain. Mendeszoon recommends the Hoka Arahi 6, which also has the APMA Seal of Acceptance. This model includes Hoka’s signature thick bed of support but with some details that make it specifically good for knee pain. It uses “J-Frame” foam inside the shoe, which creates a firmer base on the inside of the foot. This helps support and protect your foot from rolling in, which can further exacerbate knee pain. Despite its supreme cushioning, the shoe is lightweight and breathable for a walking-on-clouds feel.

What testers say: “Great sneaker, comfy yet stylish. I have arthritis in my knees and the sneakers help lessen pain when I walk distances. I’m on my feet moving all day at work so Hoka is a blessing.”

Price upon publish date of this article: $139.95

Best Basketball Shoes for Knee Pain

Nike G.T. Jump 2 Basketball Shoes

Size Range: 3.5-18 men’s; 5-19.5 women’s
Colorways Available: Three color combinations
Pros: Thick cushioning, ankle support
Cons: Narrow toe box
Nike Top Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.6/5 stars

On Sale 24% off

$135.97 Buy Men’s At Nike

Nike’s G.T. Jump 2 basketball shoes provide plenty of bounce for explosive jumps. The jump plate on the bottom of the shoe is wrapped in rubber for added responsiveness and durability. Here, ample foam cushioning in the heel allows for soft landings and shock absorption, which is crucial to protecting the ankles, knees, and hips from intense impact. The high ankle collar gives added support, while also providing stability to minimize excessive foot movement that can cause strain on your knees. Some reviewers note the toe box fits narrow, so these shoes may not be ideal for players with wide feet.

What testers say: “These shoes are nothing short of amazing!!! I tore my ACL playing basketball when I was 17. Now that I’m 41, knee arthritis is kicking in hard. For years, every time I’d hoop, it took my knees out of commission for weeks. Then I got my GT Jumps, and everything changed! No exaggeration. The cushioning and impact protection makes every landing soft. I’m back to playing 3 times per week! Couldn’t be happier.”

Price upon publish date of this article: $137.97

What to Look for in the Best Shoes for Knee Pain

“Just as folks may need eyeglasses to help accommodate with vision, properly selected shoes can accommodate particular foot problems,” says Mendeszoon. Consider the following attributes when looking for shoes for knee pain.

• Cushioning: Cushioning provides comfort and shock absorption that minimizes walking and running impact from shooting up to your knees. Mendeszoon says, if you have high arches, you might need to go heavier on the cushioning. It’s best to look for cushioned shoes that have layers of foam in the midsole.
• Arch Support: Support for your arches is important for pressure relief and for keeping overpronation at bay. Arch support will aid in proper alignment and largely reduce strain on the knees. Select shoes with built-in arch support, or the option to add arch supporting insoles, even if you don’t have specific arch-related issues.
• Stability: A stable base of support minimizes excess movement in directions that could strain your knees. Shoes with a wide heel or rubber outsole designed for traction is best for stability. Built-in features, like stiff sidewalls, can also help with support and stability. 
• Durability: You certainly don’t want to have to replace shoes frequently, particularly if they’re at a higher price point. Look for shoes made of durable materials, such as mesh or leather, with quality stitching. That being said, the support and cushioning of a brand-new shoe doesn’t last forever, so it’s important to replace them when appropriate. Mendeszoon recommends replacing shoes every 500 miles, or sooner if you start feeling any discomfort beforehand. 

Can Shoes Help Relieve Knee Pain?

Knee pain can be the result of poorly fitted or poorly cushioned shoes, so swapping them out for shoes for knee pain shoes can relieve discomfort. For chronic sources of knee pain, the right footwear, such as the best shoes for arthritic knees, is very important. A 2023 study showed that cushioned shoes can help reduce knee pain from osteoarthritis. Even if you have a more acute injury or flare-up, cushioned, supportive shoes can make a big difference in the speed of your recovery.

Quality shoes with support can also help prevent knee pain in the first place. Flat shoes like flip flops, or high heels do not offer proper support or cushioning, and wearing these types of shoes for long periods of time can lead to more knee pain. This systematic review investigated the effects of footwear on aspects like joint pain, gait, and mobility. It concluded that its best to avoid high heels and sandals and invest in stability insoles or shoes with subtalar strapping to prevent joint pain.

How We Chose the Best Shoes for Knee Pain

For more than 75 years, Footwear News has been the shoe authority. Our coverage spans top industry news, retail trends, head-to-toe fashion, athletic and outdoor analysis and more. Footwear News’ global network of editors has carefully curated all product selections featured using our expansive brand knowledge and thorough research to find quality, long-lasting items.

To choose the best shoes for knee pain, we first collected expert input on the important features to look for and how proper shoes can help. We looked for shoes in a variety of categories to fit different lifestyles and activities, such as hiking, running, or dress shoes for everyday wear. We researched top-rated shoe brands, compared user reviews, and paid special attention to product details and features. We considered elements such as cushioning, built-in stability, arch support, and shock absorption, and included expert-approved brand selections. Learn more about us here.

Meet the Expert

Dr. Mark Mendeszoon is a board-certified podiatrist and owner of Achilles Running Shop in Pennsylvania. He specializes in trauma, sports medicine, diabetic foot and ankle conditions, and foot and ankle surgery. An athlete himself, Dr. Mendeszoon has worked with athletes of all ages, including All Americans and Olympians.

Meet the Author

Jen Zeltwanger, ACSM-EP, is a freelance writer/editor specializing in health and fitness topics and product reviews. As a fitness professional and someone who has worked with clients suffering with arthritis, foot conditions, and knee and other joint pain, Zeltwanger knows how all types of shoes can affect your feet, ankles, knees, and hips and knows what to look for when shopping for quality shoes for knee pain.