Running is a high-impact sport that can take its toll even on the healthiest of knees [1].
Whether you have an underlying issue or not, wearing the right kind of shoe can massively ease the pain in your knees as well as in the lower back, feet, and hips.
Repetitive stress on your knee joints, from running, jumping, or excess body weight can all make knee pain worse.
Jacqueline Sodera
DPM, Podiatrist.
If you're like me, you're not going to be giving up running anytime soon; it's a great way to stay fit [2].
So if you're looking for some of the best running shoes for bad knees and specifically designed for a woman's body, then read on.
PRODUCT | HIGHLIGHTS & BENEFITS |
|---|---|
Best Overall OUR #1 RATED  Brooks | |
OUR #2 RATED  Saucony | |
OUR #3 RATED  Asics |
1. Brooks Womens Adrenaline GTS 19 Running Shoe (Editor's Choice)
The Brooks Adrenaline is the obvious pick for the top spot for me, because it's the running shoe I use myself.
I was recommended the Brooks Adrenaline a long time ago due to some problems I was having.
They work so well that whenever they wear out, I replace them with the newer model.
They are designed to help runners with underlying issues or problems to have better form and lessen the impact.
Pros
CONS
2. Saucony Women's Cohesion 10 Running Shoe
The Saucony Cohesion 10 is my backup running shoe.
It's a neutral running shoe, which is perfect because I pronate and I know it will take my insole which provides the support, extra cushioning, and stability I need.
The Saucony Cohesion is also an excellent option for those on a budget, as it comes in significantly cheaper than other shoes in the same market.
Pros
CONS
3. ASICS Women's Gel-Venture 6 Running Shoes
ASICS specializes in comfort and support. No matter if you're prone to supination or pronation, they have a style of shoe specifically designed to offer you the extra support, shock absorption, and cushioning to help ease foot, knee, and back pain.
You can refer to the guide on their website to find the perfect model for you, with the ASICS gel venture being ideal for those with a normal to high arch.
I suspect some of the reviews that claim they are not comfortable are due to people ordering the wrong model.
Pros
CONS
4. NIKE Women's Tanjun Running Shoes
It's impossible to escape NIKE's firm toehold on the sneaker market, and the Tanjun is one of their best in terms of comfort, support, and style.
It's super simple and straight to the point design provides a great deal of extra cushioning and shock absorption owing to the memory foam sole.
They're also reasonably priced in comparison to some of NIKE's other shoes.
Pros
CONS
5. Under Armour Women's Micro G Pursuit Running Shoe
Under Armour has entered the best shoes for runners with bad knees market by focusing on a shoe that is all about cushioning impact.
By designing for comfort, they have created a shoe that softens footfall and lessens and eases knee pain.
The breathable mesh exterior keeps your feet fresh, and there is great traction in the sole's grip too.
Pros
CONS
6. New Balance Women's Fresh Foam 1080v6 Running Shoe
This shoe makes a lot of bold claims about the science and research and development that went into it, but if you want the real story, just read the reviews.
There are a lot of people who are massive fans of the New Balance brand, but have been disappointed with the last few models
There is an almost unanimous cry that New Balance is back on track with the 1080v6.
Pros
CONS
7. NOBULL Women's Training Shoes
The NOBULL training shoe is simplicity shoe-iefied.
No gimmicks, no flashy design, no bold claims at anything other than being a seriously good shoe.
They are durable and incredibly light, and owing to their ready for anything design, they are seriously good at shock absorption and easing any knee problems.
Pros
CONS
8. HOKA ONE ONE Womens Bondi 6 Running Shoe
With the amount of cushioning that goes into HOKA shoes, it's no surprise that they're one of the best shoes for bad knees.
The thick cushioned sole is incredibly thick, and the shoe is sure to ease the impact on your knees when running.
It is also very popular with those who have jobs where they're on their feet all day.
Pros
CONS
9. adidas Women's Senseboost Go Running Shoe
ADIDAS' Senseboot is designed for athletic performance, and with the money thrown at the R&D for such a big brand, it's no surprise they got it incredibly right.
It's one of their comfiest shoes yet, and the shock absorption is incredible.
The super-light mesh upper means the shoe follows your natural stride with every step.
Pros
CONS
10. AUPERF Women Slip on Running Shoes
If you can stomach how they look, you won't be disappointed by how well these slip-on shoes fit and how ridiculously comfortable they are.
For me, they look a little space-age or alien, and I like it, but I know others on the MFS team who don't.
The color options are simple but fun and the design is incredibly unique. They're a relatively new and unknown brand, but the reviews for these shoes are all excellent.
Pros
CONS
What to look for when buying running shoes
Comfort
If the shoes aren't comfortable, it could put you off wearing them/working out, and it could negatively impact your weight loss or fitness goals.
If a shoe is comfortable it means it is well designed but it also means that it matches your foot size and shape.
Be sure to order a shoe that compliments your arch and foot's natural stride, if you don't know if you pronate or supinate, find out! [3]
Support
A shoe that supports you is an extra layer of protection from injury, and it's as simple as that [4]. Without proper support and strength in the areas where your foot and shoe need it your shoe is going to feel the wear and tear quicker and your foot or joints along with it.
Look out for rave reviews from people who've had ongoing problems that the footwear has eliminated.
Durability
A well-made shoe is an investment, and it should stand the test of time. With a running shoe that sees daily use, you can't expect it to last as long as more casual footwear, but it shouldn't be falling apart months after purchase either.
Look into reviews from other customers for information about the average lifespan of the shoe and then work out whether that's good value for money.
Shock Absorption
Shock absorption is the ability of the shoe to lessen the impact of each footfall. Excellent shock absorption means the shoe is decreasing the shockwaves that travel up from your feet and into your knees.
The cushion is important to avoid micro-trauma to the joints, especially in patients who already have knee pain.
Kavita Sharma
MD, Pain Management Expert
If you’re looking for a shoe that eases your knee pain, then excellent shock absorption is one of the most critical things to look out for.
Common symptoms of knee pain
Knee pain isn't just sharp aching or shooting pain; below are some other common symptoms that might indicate your shoes aren't giving you the proper support. [5]
Ideal exercises for runners with bad knees
If you suffer from knee pain when running, the right shoe can help, but there are other things you can do to ease the pain.
Check out this video for some of the ideal exercises you can do to lessen the impact on your knees.
FAQ
How does running affect bad knees?
Can poor running shoes cause knee pain?
How can you strengthen your knees?
How can you strengthen your knees?
Our Favorite Women’s Running Shoe For Bad Knees
More than most sports equipment or clothing, shoes are incredibly unique to each user, and what might be great for me might not be for you. It all depends on the shape of your foot and where you need support.
That said, most users that experience problems with their knees or feet agree that the Brooks Women's Adrenaline is the best option.
For someone who has had knee pain and knows that this is directly aggravated by my shoes, it's the shoe that has let me love running again.
It's beautifully designed with extra cushion to soften each footfall and with strong support in all the right places.
Brooks Adrenaline GTS 19
#1 Best Running Shoes for Bad Knees
