Knee pain can happen to anyone, whether you are a new runner who ran too much too soon or a veteran who trained too hard. Several issues in the muscles or bones that require serious medical attention can cause this problem. And even after your doctor has cleared you for any serious cause, it doesn’t make it any less frustrating as it may keep you from doing what you love. Most of the time, the culprit is as trivial as wearing the wrong kind of sneakers.
Taking the time to find the right pair of running shoes can mean the difference between a pleasant running experience or a frustrating walk home. The best feature to look for in a couple of running shoes is support and comfort, as it helps take some pressure off the knee joints. Moreover, cushioned shoes help reduce the chances of having micro-trauma to your knees.
Fortunately, there are a few excellent choices for running shoes made to combat knee pain and help provide a better running experience. Here are nine of the best shoes that will help cushion your knees and joints for a smoother run.
Hoka One One Bondi 6
The Bondi 6 is known for its cushioning feature as the brand tailored this release for running on hard artificial surfaces. It is the company’s most cushioned road shoe model providing a 43.5mm of cushion right at the heel. Whether you will be using it on a marathon or just standing on your feet at long periods every day, these are shoes that are indeed, worth your money.
The shoes have a steady curve on the bottom, which gives a smooth transition on every step. It has an innovative design that rocks you forward, guiding your foot through its natural gait. The rocker on the sole may take some getting used to, but once you break it in, it should perform smoothly throughout.
Hoka One One Gaviota 2
Similar to Bondi 6, Gaviota 2 appears as one of the company’s softest running shoes. Plus, it has enough stability to correct overpronation. Overpronating is one of the common causes of knee pain. The gear’s exceptional stability made it the go-to shoe for overpronators.
Thanks to its J-Frame technology, runners have enough cushioning and security that guide the feet during the running gait, which ultimately prevents overpronation. Moreover, the EVA foam and rubber cushioning give runners that cloud-like feeling. Perhaps the only downside is that the Gaviota 2 weighs about 10.5 oz putting it in the heavy shoe category.
Asics Gel Kayano 24
Another great shoe for overpronators is the Asics Gel Kayano 24. Its gel technology helps overpronators keep their foot roll efficient and stable. It’s rearfoot and forefoot gel technology absorbs shock through the entire gait cycle making it easier on the knees.
Its shock absorption feature is what makes it a popular shoe and one of the best-selling running shoes in the world. However, similar to Hoka’s Gaviota 2, the shoe is rather heavy.
ASICS GEL-Venture 6
The GEL-Venture 6 is ideal for running on rough or concrete terrain because of its high abrasion rubber outsole that provides incredible durability and traction. The shoe is particularly made for runners with high arches, which is why it may not be a good fit for those who have flat feet.
The shoe also has a removable sock liner, which is an excellent feature for runners who prefer inserting medical or custom orthotics for a more comfortable and personalized fit.
Adidas Supernova
The Adidas Supernova is a trail shoe that provides enough support to stabilize your legs while still light enough to give you a breezy run. The brand boasts a responsive cushioning system that offers runners plenty of traction. Moreover, runners report that due to its supportive feature, they can barely feel the road beneath their feet.
Also, the shoe sports a mesh on top, with a water line that keeps your feet dry. It is also a suitable pair of shoes for non-runners who are often on their feet all day.
Skechers Energy Afterburn
Not only does it fashions a sleek design, but the Skechers Energy Afterburn also has remarkable features. It provides exceptional comfort and support for people with bad knees with its optimal cushioning from the memory foam and padded tongue and collar. Another outstanding quality of the shoe is its accuracy in sizing.
Moreover, the lace-up design allows you to make adjustments in the fit, giving you a more comfortable and secure feeling. While they may be heavier as compared to other running shoes, they offer excellent arch support that helps ease discomfort, especially at times when knee pain is unbearable.
Brooks Adrenaline GTS 20
Experts, doctors, and casual runners often recommend Brooks Adrenaline GTS 20. These shoes provided enough support and decent cushioning designed to prevent knee injuries and offer stability. Despite being equipped with plenty of cushioning, the shoe is lightweight and breathable.
The particular model has a progressive diagonal rollbar feature that helps control pronation and ensures a smoother running experience. It may be a more expensive choice than other models. However, its quality makes it worth every penny, particularly if you have been struggling with knee pains for a while.
Brooks Glycerin 17
The Glycerin 17 is a perfect choice for runners whose knees are actively hurting. With its DNA loft foam, runners enjoy an ultra-cushioned running shoe that lasts for miles. While it is not as cushioned as Hoka’s Bondi 6, the shoe has a more traditional moving shoe design.
The Glycerin 17 weighs about 10.4 oz, which makes it a relatively heavy shoe. However, what it gains in weight, it makes up for in overall comfort and support.
Saucony Cohesion 12
The Saucony Cohesion 12 is a neutral shoe making it a perfect choice for everyday running. It provides plenty of cushioning and ventilation. The upper material comes from a special mesh that keeps you cool and dry while you run. Moreover, the model is best known for its durability, considering its price range.
