In today’s article, we’re going to be reviewing 16 of the best walking shoes for bad knees in 2022.
We do want to get our steps in, we do want to move our bodies, and we know how rewarding that can be.
But sadly for a lot of us, bad knees get in the way.
Or do they?
The good news is the shoes we’ve reviewed have really helped tons of people either walk completely pain-free or walk all day with minimal knee pain.
Let’s dive right into it…
Related:
Quick comparison of the best 4 shoes for knee pain
Saucony Grid Omni | Vionic Walker |
|---|---|
Moderate to severe overpronation | Moderate overpronation |
| Leather upper | Full-grain, water-resistant leather |
| Removable PU insole | Removable orthotic insole |
| Ndurance rubber outsole | Durable rubber outsole |
 | |
Brooks Addiction | Hoka Bondi |
|---|---|
| Moderate to severe overpronation | Mild overpronation |
| Full-grain leather/nubuck | Full-grain leather/mesh |
| Removable insole | Removable insole |
| Durable HPR Green outsole | Abrasion rubber outsole |
| |
Related: How Much Walking For Weight Loss
16 Best Walking Shoes for Bad Knees
It is important that our foot is working correctly to prevent many of these common aches and pains that we do suffer from every day.
But when our feet, knees, arches, and joints get weak, getting good walking shoes with good support, cushioning, and shock absorption is KEY.
Brooks Ghost
Best pick for walking and running
Best for: bad knees, bad ankles, back pain, Plantar Fasciitis, shin splints, Achilles Tendonitis, flat feet.
The Brooks Ghost line is one of the best running and walking shoes hands down. You can run in them, speed-walk in them, go to the gym in them, and they look great for regular everyday wear.
Coming in different widths, the Ghost fits like a glove and offers a comfortable cushiony ride, a wide toe box, and great arch support for flat feet. It even has a little bit more support in the midfoot and offers a smoother ride.
Terri says the Ghost is perfect for her bad knees. Read her review on Amazon.
Pros
- Exceptionally comfortable right out of the box
- Provides an incredibly soft and cushioned ride
- Secure upper & plush heel collar
- Has a roomy, breathable toebox
- Amazing grip & traction on the bottom
- Super durable
- Available in multiple widths
Cons
- 12mm heel-to-toe drop (not an issue if you’re used to that)
Upper
Brooks are using their 3D-printed engineered mesh, which is going to allow for almost 0 to little stitching on this upper. They’ve actually woven the midfoot area a little bit tighter than the previous version and that’s just going to allow for a much better snugger one-to-one fit.
The ankle collar has a nice nylon inner lining and it’s going to be really nice and plush back on your Achilles.
Midsole
In the heel, Brooks is using their Brooks DNA Loft cushioning setup, which is the softest cushioning that they have. DNA Loft is made up of EVA foam, air, and rubber.
For the rest of the shoe, it’s going to be their BioMogo DNA cushioning, which is just a little bit more firm and that’s going to allow for a nice soft landing but then still a snappy toe-off.
Outsole
The outsole has this updated segmented crash pad and these Omega flex grooves which will allow for a smooth heel-to-toe transition no matter where your foot lands in this shoe.
Gravity Defyer G-Defy
Dr. Arnold Ross, D.P.M – Podiatrist Associate Professor, Western University LA recommends the Gravity Defyer for his patients for foot issues like bad knees, Achilles Tendonitis, foot and ankle pain, heel pain, heel spurs, Morton’s Neuroma, overpronation, Plantar Fasciitis, muscle pain, joint pain, arthritis.
If you walk a lot, walk for fitness, or if you’re just on your feet all day long, the Gravity Defyer is your go-to shoe.
What makes Gravity Defyer walking shoes unique?
Walking and running in normal shoes creates shock waves that run up your feet, knees, and hips. This kind of forces you to absorb tons of harmful impact with every step.
The inside of the Defyer is not like any other regular shoe. The heel area is a kind of chamber that has three springs, a rubber trampoline heel, and space for air.
Is this just for show? Absolutely not.
Stewy says finding comfortable shoes for her bad knees and back was a nightmare until she found this Gravity Defyer. Read her review on Amazon.
Pros
- Incredibly comfortable if you’re on your feet for long hours at a time
- Amazingly supportive on all sides
- Fits great and is dreamy to walk in right out of the box
- Great for various foot issues
- Excellent comfy toebox
- Offers extra support in the heel area
- Accommodates custom orthotics easily
- Offers plenty of cushioning for shock absorption
- Comes in extra wide
- Quality construction
Cons
- Expensive (but worth every penny)
Soles
The secret of the Gravity Defyer is the Verso Shock Trampoline sole that absorbs harmful shocks you may run into on a daily basis as we live in a world that’s a concrete jungle.
This technology also helps give you the energy return you need to propel you forward and eliminate fatigue. The Gravity Defyer really makes a point of difference for walking and standing and absorbing that kind of shock.
You’re not going to feel the springs or feel unsteady as this shoe feels super cushiony and you don’t know the work it’s doing.
If you’re going from maybe 3 to 5000 steps a day to maybe doubling that every single day and then you’re getting more in the next day, the Defyer is vital for your feet.
Vionic Classic Walker
Best pick for support
Best for: bad knees, bad hips, bad ankles, back pain, Plantar Fasciitis, heel spurs, arthritis, osteoarthritis, fibromyalgia, shin splints, Achilles Tendonitis, bunions and hammertoes, flat feet.
If you’re:
- doing any sightseeing,
- running errands,
- chasing after kids or grandkids,
- trying to get your 10.000 steps,
- in a profession where you’re on your feet all day long,
… then this is how you’re going to protect your feet and how you’re getting all of that support and comfort. This is one of Vionic’s most structured and one of their most supportive walking shoes.
It’s nice and flexible in the forefoot, firm and supportive through the rearfoot with a nice firm heel counter and wonderful padding.
This is a wonderful construction with EVA midsole and unparalleled midfoot support.
Desna says the Classic Walker is great for her bad knees and Plantar Fasciitis. Read her review on Amazon.
Pros
- Exceptional support thanks to the podiatrist-designed Orthaheel insert
- Long-lasting comfort
- Midsole compound helps attenuate impact
- Prevents the foot from rolling inward too much
- Upper is premium full-grain leather
- Fits great right out of the box
- Durable rubber compound on the bottom
- Outsole delivers great traction
- Flex grooves deliver flexibility
Cons
- Style might not be for everyone
Podiatrist-designed
These are podiatrist-designed shoes which provide great support like an orthotic. It’s designed to help relieve those common causes like bad knees, heel pain, flat feet issues, overpronation issues…
The Walker also received the seal of approval from the American Podiatric Medical Association.
Footbed
Part of what makes the Vionic Walker so special is the full-length relief Orthotic footbed which is going to provide unparalleled comfort and support your natural alignment.
The footbed is flexible in the forefoot and comes with two built-in shock-absorbing sections in the front and the heel to help with cushioning.
The footbed also has a soft top cover that’s been treated with EcoFresh to maintain an odor and bacteria-managed foot environment.
Overall, if your feet tend to overpronate, or roll inward too much, the Classic Walker is going to give you that great support to push your feet back to their normal position
How it works
In this image, the right foot is barefoot on flat ground. The foot’s pronating in, the ankles are receiving more stress, and that kind of works its way all the way up to your knees and hips.
Looking at the left foot which sits on a Vionic sandal featuring their built-in Orthaheel insert, you can see that great alignment. The ankle and knees are now in line as they should be naturally.
Upper
The Classic Walker has a premium super comfortable full-grain leather upper with mesh inserts to help with breathability.
It’s very flexible through the forefoot and has a sturdy plastic heel counter to help keep your heel locked in place.
On that orthotic correction, the Walker has a soft padded lining that’s also been treated with EcoFresh to help reduce odor.
Last but not least, the Walker has lots of cushioning on the tongue, on the collar, and even on the heels giving you lots of great coverage in a lightweight package.
Outsole
The Vionic Walker has a durable rubber outsole that offers great traction. It also has a TPR (thermoplastic rubber) shank to help with additional arch support.
I recommend that you wear these shoes for a few hours at a time for the first few days to allow your body to adapt to the technology because they will feel different from your regular shoes.
This shoe is recommended by DR. Andrew Weil. It also carries the American APMA Seal of Approval meaning that podiatrists recognize this shoe is great for people’s foot health.
Style-wise, the all-black version is great for the service industry. Talking about work…
Work
If you do need a black sneaker for work for your uniform and you want to be really comfortable, Vionic has got you covered.
Sizing
The Walker Classic comes in medium and wide widths, which is awesome sauce.
Again, the comfort and the support that you get in a shoe like this really is unparalleled, and this makes this Vionic one of the best shoes for arthritic knees as well.
Overall, whether it’s knee issues, fitness, being active, or maybe even the shoe that you’re just wearing most of the day, The Vionic Classic Walker is a great choice for you.
RYKA Women’s Devotion Plus 2
Best pick for plush cushioning
Best for: bad knees, knee replacement, hips, and lower back pain, Plantar Fasciitis, heel spurs, arthritis, metatarsal issues, flat feet, wide feet.
When you go out and about and active with your kids, you have to be super comfortable.
Ryka shoes are designed on the last of a woman’s foot, which means they’re narrow in the heel but generously spacious through the toebox.
The Devotion line has become one of Ryka’s customer-favorite as far as how awesome it feels whether you’re doing a walk around the neighborhood, walking around the house, or power walking getting those 10.000 steps.
This lady says the Devotion is super comfy for her bad knees. Read her review on Amazon.
Pros
- RE-ZORB foam is responsive on hard surfaces (easy on the knees)
- Super comfy for all-day wear & everyday walking
- Provides prolonged walking comfort
- Versatile (great for gym)
- Plush cushioning
- Adequate arch support
- Provides plenty of room & depth in the toebox
- Lightweight & breathable
- Snug secure fit
- Inexpensive
Cons
- Laces are a bit difficult to lace
- Tongue slide
Upper
The mesh on the upper is breathable and is actually larger in some areas and smaller in others depending on where you are on the shoe.
It features no-sew Flex-Foil overlays which are extremely lightweight and give you structural support around your foot.
The inside has a super smooth fabric lining that feels really wonderful to the touch so you have a great in-shoe fit and feel even without a sock on.
It also has a lace-up closure to make sure you’re fitting in it nice and snug while the padded tongue and collar give you that extra comfort around your ankles.
Inside
The sock liner is removable. So if you wear a custom-built orthotic, you can always slide it in.
The footbed is a Q-contour footbed and it is anatomically designed around a woman’s foot.
The Devotion has a firm piece of foam at the arch area for extra support while the heel of the footbed is deep and cups around your heel.
The reason why it’s important to have a deep heel cup is that women have hips, and cupping around the heel actually gives support to your heel and stabilizes it.
This way your foot and knees don’t get fatigued as they don’t have to work so hard trying to stabilize you.
Midsole
Underneath your foot, you’ll feel two layers of Ryka’s RE-ZORB Active foam which don’t bottom out. This cushioning setup is going to give you full heel-to-toe cushioning and great shock absorption.
It’s actually responsive foam that puts that spring in your step and gives energy return back to your body. This translates to less foot fatigue at the end of the day.
Outsole
The durable rubber outsole is going to give you rebound while the pods are designed to make you feel like you’re walking on a yoga mat.
The pods also give you a little bit more height when you’re walking but also add to the shock absorption which your bad knees, ankles, hips, and lower back are going to appreciate.
The shock absorption provided by the Ryka Devo Plus 2 is great if you’re trying to get in shape or starting a new fitness routine.
As one of the best cushioned walking shoes for bad knees, the Ryka Devo Plus 2 comes in medium and wide widths as well.
New Balance 928v3
Best for widths
Best for: bad knees, knee replacement, hips, ankle, and lower back pain, Plantar Fasciitis, heel spurs, arthritis, bunions, flat feet, high arches, wide feet, Achilles Tendonitis, Morton’s Neuroma.
Consistency, support, cushioning, quality, and motion control are signature features of the well-loved New Balance 928v3.
The 928 is definitely one of the most comfortable and most supportive New Balance shoes for knee pain and Plantar Fasciitis as it helps relieve these pains almost instantly.
This is a really high-supportive shoe that accommodates orthotics easily. So, if you’re experiencing foot problems, you stand or you walk a lot, you definitely want to look into this great walking shoe.
Laura got the 928 for her dad’s bad knees. Read her review on Amazon.
Pros
- Ample arch support & ankle support
- Ample room in the toe area
- Lightweight & fits like a glove
- Very stable for heavy guys and gals
- Lasting comfort
- Alleviates foot discomfort
- Provides sufficient platform stability
- Accommodates orthotic inserts
- Different widths available
- Leather version keeps its shape longer
- Sturdy construction
- Immediately wearable right out of the box
- Easy to clean
Cons
- Short tongue
- A bit pricey
Rollbar
The 928v3 features the New Balance technology called the Rollbar.
The Rollbar is a dual support system that stops your foot from overpronating (rolling inward) or supinating (rolling outward). By stabilizing the rear foot, the Rollbar helps keep the walking motion steady and consistent.
Upper
The upper is durable leather and has a nice deep toe box that is excellent for hammertoes and bunions. It also has enough depth for those who want to accommodate a sort of thicker orthotic.
Last
Built on an SL-2 last, the 928v3 also gives you much more room in the toe box, which is great for wider-based feet, hammertoes, bunions…
This shoe is going to accommodate you really nicely and it’s not going to cause any slipping in the heel.
Stack
Another very important feature of this shoe is the stack that it has. It has a nice stack to the back and a nice drop in the forefoot.
Rocker Bottom
This shoe also has a bit of what’s called a rocker sole. This feature is going to facilitate the transition from heel to toe so you’re not forcing all the pressure on one part of the foot.
Strike Path
This unique tread pattern is specifically designed to help guide your foot into natural motion.
So technologies like the Walking Strike Path, Rollbar, and rounded heel all make sure that your walking gait is as healthy as can be.
Other great features you’ll enjoy are the ABZORB cushioning for plush but never unstable comfort and Lightning Dry liner to wick away moisture.
The 928v3 is available in both Velcro and lace-up and has a full range of sizes and widths.
Last but not least, the 928v3 is one of the best shoes for standing all day with bad knees and one of the best New Balance shoes for Plantar Fasciitis.
New Balance 813v1
Best pick for severe overpronators
Maximize your walks with this plush walking shoe.
Upper
This New Balance features a supple leather upper with a logo detail for added appeal. The upper is super cool and super stretchy and it’s going to contour to your foot beautifully and accommodate most foot types.
There’s a lace-up closure for an optimal and secure fit and a padded collar and tongue for additional support.
Inside
The inside features a soft fabric lining with a removable Cardio Comfort cushioned footbed for lightweight comfort.
Midsole & Outsole
It features a lightweight ABZORB foam midsole that will give you a ton of added comfort and shock absorption.
Down at the bottom, there’s a durable Ndurance rubber outsole that will help keep you nice and steady along with deep flex grooves for better flexibility.
As one of the best shoes for knee pain, get moving and grooving in these awesome walking shoes from New Balance.
PM Dale says the 813 is great for his bad knees and back. Read his review on Amazon.
Pros
- Super comfortable for all-day wear
- Effective built-in motion control mechanism (Rollbar post) for severe overpronators
- Has a really secure heel & good arch support
- Mesh on tongue and collar for better ventilation
- Durable supple leather
- Lightweight shock-absorbing midsole compound for long-lasting wear
- Very full-length, hard-wearing rubber outsole
- Outsole is slip-resistant
- Also comes in a narrow width for people with narrow feet
Cons
- Design may feel bulky for some
- Narrow upper lace holes
Skechers Go Walk
Best slip-on design
Best for: bad knees, bad hips, bad ankles, Plantar Fasciitis, heel spurs, arthritis, rheumatoid arthritis and neuropathies, bunions, flat feet, high arches, wide feet, Morton’s Neuroma
The Go Walk started by being a slip-on easy answer to the comfort of a sneaker or a trainer.
Lighter than an iPhone and feeling lighter than a feather, the GoWalk from Skechers has long been known to be one of the most comfortable walking slip-on shoes.
Joan says the Go Walk is the only shoe that gives her relief from the discomfort. Read her review on Amazon.
Pros
- Super comfy & cushioned for all-day wear & traveling
- Super breathable thanks to the athletic mesh fabric
- Super lightweight & responsive midsole cushioning
- Lace-less slip-on design makes it super easy to slip on and off
- Very flexible (smooth & comfortable heel-to-toe transition)
- Air Cooled Goga Mat insole is padded, cozy, and breathable
- Bottom features high-rebound underfoot pods
- Offers a wide forefoot
- Fits great with dressy casual wear
Cons
- Materials might stretch over time
- Insole is non-removable
Upper
This awesome slip-on is quite flexible in construction with an upper crafted from textile, canvas, or mesh material.
It has plenty of detail and stitching throughout. At the back, there’s a pull loop for easy on and off.
Midsole & Outsole
The Go Walk features a really comfortable Resalyte midsole for added shock absorption.
So the GoWalk brought something slip-on without laces and looks like a boat shoe or a ballet shoe with a sneaker outsole.
The outsole is almost like puffed air and you feel like you’re wearing a sock that happens to be attached to an outsole.
The bottom also features Go Impulse and Go Pillar Sensors which offer flexibility and responsive feedback for a better walking experience.
The Goga Pillars provide more shock absorbency, more cushion, and more bounce when you walk. They also help support your feet by providing a balanced squishy surface.
Famous Goga Mat
The Skechers GoWalk features the Goga Mat technology which is like a yoga mat for your feet. Goga mat is a fantastic squishy pad that feels like your feet are being cradled in a bed of fluff.
The Goga Mat feels wonderful, lovely, flexible, and spongy underneath your feet throughout the course of the day.
When it’s time for some athletic walking, make sure you slip into something comfortable like the Go Walk 3.
Brooks Addiction Walker
Best pick for comfort
Best for: bad knees, knee replacement, hips, and lower back pain, Plantar Fasciitis, heel spurs, arthritis, vein problems, bunions, flat feet, high arches, wide feet, Morton’s Neuroma.
Take strides of confidence because you’re going to be walking with ease and plenty of comfort.
The Addiction is a sleek walker that has smooth and supple full-grain leather that’s durable and easy to maintain. It’s also been updated and now it’s available in suede as well.
It has a lace-up closure with a padded tongue and collar for Achilles’ support and extra comfort next to your skin.
There’s a padded tongue and collar that add to the cushioning around your ankle and Achilles tendon.
The Addiction comes in a wide width, which would be very good if you have anything like bunions, some sort of metatarsalgia, hammertoes, claw toes, and things like that.
Pros
- Super comfortable for long walks and all-day wear
- Features a great stabilizing component for overpronation issues
- Adequate arch support & foothold
- Long-lasting BioMoGo midsole cushioning
- Full-length PDRB technology helps guide guides your foot during the heel-to-toe transition
- Full ground contact design makes the shoe balanced and stable
- Wide enough to accommodate custom orthotics
- Hard-wearing rubber outsole
- Reasonably priced
Cons
- Heavy
- Not very breathable
Insole
This shoe also features a removable cushioned insole which has a deep heel cup to keep your foot in place. The insole is going to provide you with great arch support and plenty of underfoot support as well.
Midsole/BioMogo
The Brooks also features the Hydro Flow Technology inside the midsole.
This fancy term means gel that’s designed to enhance the midsole cushioning, provide excellent shock absorption, and help stabilize your foot.
The midsole has a built-in side posting which makes the shoe a very good option for you if you have overpronation issues. The posting is essentially just a build-up of material in the medial area of the shoe.
The shoe also has a full-length innovative BioMoGo recyclable midsole compound designed to:
- stabilize the foot,
- reduce overpronation,
- provide you with plenty of underfoot support and protection.
Outsole
The bottom has a nice durable outsole with a high-density carbon heel with flex grooves for a great road feel.
The great thing about this is that it’s going to give you a balanced position, maximum motion control, and flexibility from heel strike through toe-off.
The outsole is slip-resistant and it’s great for various conditions. Wet or dry, you’re going to get a good grasp on a variety of surfaces.
Slip in to comfort and feel fantastic with one of the best walking shoes for flat feet and bad knees from Brooks.
Keen Women’s Presidio
Best pick for arch support
Best for: bad knees, knee replacement, hips, ankle and lower back pain, Plantar Fasciitis, heel spurs, arthritis, bunions and hammertoes, flat feet, high arches, wide feet, Morton’s Neuroma.
If you walk a lot or if you’re on your feet all day at work, the Keen Presidio is going to be your new best friend. The Keen offers refined casual comfort with a rugged professional style.
Delores says the Presidio is awesome for her bad knees and terrible feet. Read her review on Amazon.
Pros
- Sustained comfort from sunrise to sundown
- Comort right out of the box
- Ample arch support that molds to your foot’s natural contours
- Midsole is more durable & responsive
- Forefoot is generously roomy
- Easy on the pocket
- Waterproof to keep your feet dry (hiking-inspired)
- Accommodates orthotics easily
- Full-grain leather/nubuck upper
Cons
- Heavy
- A wit warm
Footbed
The insole is padded and offers a lot of support action making your steps comfortable.
Thanks to the removable Metatomical footbed which conforms to your foot, you’ll be able to focus on the task at hand and not how comfortable and stable your feet are supposed to feel.
Upper
A beautifully crafted shoe, Keen designed the Presidio with a really great leather upper which is water-resistant and features detailed side stitching as well.
You have a really nice generous toe box for a lot of nice width in the toes so you can get that natural toe splay and make your toes dance.
It’s got that classic oxford lacing system with metal eyelets and wide laces to give you a nice secure and customized fit.
This is an easy-going style that’s subtle but not too out of place in a working environment.
The Presidio also has Keen’s patented toe bumper which is going to add durability to the shoe and protection to your toes in all your daily adventures.
Inside
The inside features a really great breathable lining with a removable insole.
Around the ankle and the sides of the foot, it feels like it’s almost a body pillow wrapped around the entire parameter of the inside.
There’s a lovely leather lining right around the entrance for nice, soft, and supple wear over time.
The moisture-wicking fabric on the inside of the Presidio provides you with all-day dryness which translates to comfort and less odors.
You can rest assured you’re not stinking up the house when you finally take them off at the end of the day.
Midsole/Outsole
The midsole offers a great level of support while the non-marking high-traction rubber outsole is going to provide stability on all types of surfaces.
As one of the best walking shoes for flat feet and bad knees, the Presidio’s support and comfort are truly one of the best.
Propet Men’s Stability Walker
Best pick for extended walking and standing
Best for: bad knees, hips, ankle, and lower back pain, Plantar Fasciitis, heel spurs, wide feet, Morton’s Neuroma, Achilles Tendonitis.
Get out there and have the walk of your life with this amazing walker from Propet.
This is an amazing athletic lightweight sporty design that’s very stable and it just looks good.
With perforations on the vamp for added durability and quality materials all around, the Propet was designed to keep you comfortable and stable while still keeping you looking good.
Kimberly says her doctor recommended the Propet for her bad knees. Read her review on Amazon.
Pros
- Provides reliable, lasting comfort & protection for extended periods
- Offers great stability
- Soft EVA midsole that’s able to hold its support & shape
- Midsole offers great shock attenuation
- Remarkable arch & ankle support
- Soft & pliable upper materials (leather, nubuck, suede)
- Fits great around your foot
- Accommodates custom orthotics
- Rigid & secure heel counter to prevent heel slippage
- Durable slip-resistant rubber outsole
- Quality construction
Cons
- Requires break-in period
- Inconsistent sizing
Footbed
The footbed is removable and shock-absorbing and allows you the opportunity to replace it with your custom orthotic if you chose to do so.
The interior features really nice plush cushioning all the way around while the padded tongue and collar are great for all-day comfort.
Shock Absorption
The lightweight midsole offers tons of shock absorption with built-in gel in the heel area for added comfort within the shoe.
This entire shoe is built to absorb shock and that’s what Propet does the best. The Stability Walker gives you the smoothest transition from heel strike to toe-off possible.
Stability
This shoe has added arch support for tons of stability which then translates to lateral stability with every step for a smoother gait cycle so that you can go for longer walks.
Outsole
The sticky rubber outsole has a nice wide platform. It features an arch bridge that has plenty of texture and offers plenty of flexibility and underfoot support.
Again, the Propet Stability Walker is one of the best walking shoes for hip and knee pain.
Nike Men’s Air Monarch IV
Best pick for versatility
Best for: bad knees, knee replacement, hips, ankle, and lower back pain, Plantar Fasciitis, heel spurs, bunions, flat feet, high arches, wide feet.
Dubbed the Cadillac of cushioning, the Air Monarch is consistently one of Nike’s best-selling models.
Featuring full-length air cushioning, the Air Monarch is one of the few Nike models available in the standard ‘D’ and the extra-wide ‘4E’.
Along with the full-length Air cushioning system, the Phylon midsole absorbs tons of shock as well.
J. Spurway says the Monarch is the best he’s found. Read his review on Amazon.
Pros
- Exceptionally comfortable & supportive
- Packs style and performance
- Sole absorbs impact quite effectively
- Soft & plush around your foot & ankle
- Super versatile (daily walking, workouts, work, running errands, standing in front of a barbecue for hours…)
- Breathable & guarantees a fresh in-shoe experience
- Great for folks with wide feet
- Budget-friendly
- True to size
Cons
- Might squeak on certain floors
Upper
This fantastic shoe is made of a smooth durable upper. It has a traditional lace-up design with a unique system over the middle area for a secure fit. Then, of course, there’s a padded tongue and collar for additional comfort.
On the lateral side, leather composes the paneled upper with a silver 3M swoosh.
At the back of the shoe, the paneled leather upper wraps around the heel with a pull tab for easy on and off.
Inside
The Monarch features a soft textile lining that feels great against the skin while wicking away moisture.
Outsole
It’s all on top of a durable rubber outsole which is treaded for additional stability and traction. The outsole has a pivot point for enhanced performance.
Get yourself a sleek look with tons of comfort and cushioning.
If you’re into Nike, make sure you check these out Nike Epic React vs Odyssey
Rockport Men’s World Tour
Best pick for durability
Best for: bad knees, knee replacement, hips, and lower back pain, Plantar Fasciitis, heel spurs, flat feet, wide feet.
This great shoe is going to give you hours of comfort no matter how long you wear it.
It does feature a traditional lace-up design with exposed stitching throughout which translates to more durability. There’s plenty of padding around the ankle and collar with an Achilles notch for comfort
You also have the ability to remove the insole which is perforated for breathability and contoured for a bit of comfort. It’s going to give hours of cushioning.
Midsole/Outsole
The midsole is very thick and goes the full length of the shoe and that’s going to help give you plenty of shock absorption from heel strike to toe-off.
The outsole has a great tread pattern with flex grooves for added flexibility.
George says the World Tour really helps support his bad knees. Read his review on Amazon.
Pros
- Looks dressy but feels like a sneaker
- Comfortable to wear for long periods of time
- Great ankle support
- Fits great right out of the box
- Fits custom orthotics easily
- Has enough space to easily accommodate an extra support insole
- Good-looking & lightweight
- Not too narrow nor too wide
- Great for large wide feet
- Unmatched quality & craftsmanship
- Durable and rugged and can withstand constant use
- Comes in US extra wide
Cons
- Laces are a bit short
RYKA Women’s Sky Walk 2
Best for: bad knees, hips, ankle, and lower back pain, Plantar Fasciitis, heel spurs, arthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, bunions, flat feet, wide feet.
The Sky Walk version 2 is Ryka’s number one walking shoe made even better and even more breathable.
This is a supremely lightweight lace-up walker with a breathable mesh and leather upper, a removable footbed, and lots of support.
The lace-up design is fully functional to provide you with an exact fit.
A narrow heel and a wide toe box
Ryka is a company that is by women, for women. The company has been women’s first and only exclusive athletic shoe brand to use the mold of a woman’s foot, which is narrower in the heel and wider in the toe box.
Most women need some structure and support right underneath the arch area because of their flat feet and because of the width of their hips.
If you’ve ever had that sensation of your heel slipping in and out of the back of the shoe causing blisters and friction, that doesn’t happen in the Sky Walk 2.
And if you’re doing any activity or standing on your feet all day long, it’s important to be able to spread your toes and have that flexibility and extra width if your feet tend to swell.
The Sky Walk also provides flexibility at the ball of your foot to better cushion and protect you from ball of foot pain.
Heidi says the Sky Walk is a great affordable option for her knee issues. Read her review on Amazon.
Pros
- Super comfortable thanks to the memory foam footbed
- Plush cushioning that absorbs impact
- Upper is breathable & lightweight
- Increased support and structural integrity thanks to a TPU shank
- Fits great
- Offers breathability & a roomy toebox
- Comes in stylish colorways
- Bottom provides great traction on a wide variety of surfaces
- Affordable
Cons
- Laces may be short for some
- Runs a bit narrow
Ryka Sky Walk 1 vs 2
Sockliner
The first important thing Ryka did is update the sockliner because the Sky Walk 1 had a memory foam footbed that was not removable.
Now, the Sky Walk 2 features a removable sockliner which has a lot of that arch support so you’re going to be able to have that lift you’re looking for.
Also, the new footbed has a deep heel cup, meaning your foot sits inside the shoe so you’re not going to be sliding back. Not only that but your foot is going to be in proper alignment in that heel cup.
More EVA
Another difference between the Sky Walk 2 and the original is that you’ve got more of that EVA material in the forefoot area.
What does that mean?
It simply means more shock absorption and cushioning from heel to toe. So, as you’re taking those steps, you’re going to have more support.
SGS
Then there is that little TPU shank in the midfoot area (in pink) that runs medially and laterally to provide the support you need.
Ryka calls it SGS, which stands for a Skeletal Guidance Shank. This shank is designed to protect women’s feet, knees, muscles, and ligaments from taking a beating and getting fatigued.
New Overlays
Another difference in the Sky Walk 2 is that in that toe box, there are less of those stitched overlays and more of those fused on overlays.
This means you don’t have anything that’s resisting the forefoot area. The new overlays actually add to the look of a performance shoe and the Sky Walk has that very sleek design.
So, Ryka is trying to work all of the components into the shoe so that you’ve got the function in there but you don’t sacrifice the look.
The upper is very soft and less restrictive. So if you have bunions, the shoe’s mesh panels are going to allow your bunions more space to splay.
Overall, your ankles, knees, and hips are going to be protected, and eventually thank Ryka.
As one of the best sneakers for bad knees, all you have to do is pick your color, get outside, and let the Sky Walk 2 do its thing.
Ryka Women’s Dash 3
Best for: bad knees, knee replacement, hips, and lower back pain, Plantar Fasciitis, heel spurs, arthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, bunions, flat feet, high arches, wide feet, Morton’s Neuroma.
Pros
- Consistent comfort over prolonged hours of use
- Comfortable right out of the box
- Footbed adds to the comfort and cushioning
- Adequate arch support
- Fits great
- Provides support through the midsole
- Great ventilation
- Offers ample toebox room for wider feet, swollen feet, or bunions
- Don’t run too wide or narrow
- Lightweight
- Durable EVA midsole & rubber outsole
- Sturdy & well made
Cons
- Conflicting fit
D Wilcox says the Dash is great for her aging bad knees. Read her review on Amazon.
Upper
This shoe is super lightweight and built with a woman’s specific fit in mind. It features a lightweight breathable open mesh with overlays for great breathability and excellent upper stability.
There’s a full lace-up closure for a secure yet adjustable fit.
Inside
It’s wonderfully lined on the interior and has nice padding in the tongue and collar for oftness next to the skin and added breathability.
There’s a removable cushioned footbed that’s completely made to fit you anatomically because it’s an Anatomical Precise-Return footbed designed for additional stability, arch support, and squish.
Since it’s removable, you can easily swap it out with your custom orthotic if you have one.
The Ortholite footbed promotes a nice and healthy foot environment for you every single time.
Midsole & Outsole
The Ryka Dash has a full-length compression-molded shock-absorbing EVA midsole and a nice flexible construction along with texture on the durable rubber outsole for a ton of stability and traction.
The outsole provides the perfect balance of traction and flexibility.
You’re going to speed up your routine and be fast and furious with the Dash 3 from Ryka.
Rockport Men’s M7100 Milprowalker
Best for: bad knees, hips, ankle and lower back pain, Plantar Fasciitis, heel spurs, arthritis, flat feet, neuropathy, high arches, wide feet.
Upper
The Rockport’s upper has been crafted with a genuine smooth full-grain leather upper that is easy to clean and maintain.
It has an incredibly sturdy construction. It features a traditional lace-up design with blind eyelets for a proper fit.
The Rockport has a padded tongue to prevent lace bruising and a padded collar to prevent blisters for continuous comfort.
The Rockport has a patented walking platform for support and stability. It also has a removable cushioned insole that is odor and fungus resistant and it also helps wick away moisture.
Outsole
On the bottom, you’re looking at a very sticky and durable rubber outsole that provides durability whether you’re walking indoors or outdoors.
The Rockport 7100 proves that there is a difference between walking shoes and walking comfort, which makes it one of the best walking shoes for knee pain.
Pros
- Available in extra wide in half sizes (hard to find in brick-and-mortar stores)
- Premium quality material
- Super comfy for long-distance walking yet dressy enough to wear to work
- Excellent Support
- Lightweight
- Sturdier, genuine, thicker leather upper
- Slip-resistant & keeps your feet dry & warm because it’s waterproof
- Holds even narrow feet and heels securely
- Seems like Rockports never wear out
- Reasonable price
Cons
- Seems like the new wide versions are a bit tighter (half size up)
- Laces are a bit short for double-knotting
Where to buy the best shoes for knee pain
Saucony Grid Omni | Vionic Walker |
|---|---|
Moderate to severe overpronation | Moderate overpronation |
| Leather upper | Full-grain, water-resistant leather |
| Removable PU insole | Removable orthotic insole |
| Ndurance rubber outsole | Durable rubber outsole |
| |
Brooks Addiction | Hoka Bondi |
|---|---|
| Moderate to severe overpronation | Mild overpronation |
| Full-grain leather/nubuck | Full-grain leather/mesh |
| Removable insole | Removable insole |
| Durable HPR Green outsole | Abrasion rubber outsole |
| |
End of article: Best Walking Shoes for Bad Knees and OA Pain
FAQs
Can knee pain be caused by certain shoes?
The short answer is yes it absolutely can be and here’s one of the possible reasons why…
If you’re wearing footwear that’s not right for your feet, that can be one of the contributors to knee pain. This does not mean that fixing your footwear is going to be the complete fix. However, it is absolutely a common contributor to knee pain.
Here’s how that works…
Your feet are at the end of your leg. If you have flat feet (pes planus), which means your feet want to roll inward, then that changes what happens at your knees because it’s going to make you a little knock-kneed and make you toe-off a little differently, which in turn means that your knee twists or rotates one way or the other every step you take.
So, if you’re flat-footed for example, and your shoes don’t support your feet and keep them level, it can force strain the inside of your knee and give various knee issues.
Are supportive shoes the right shoes to get?
A lot of people say “I want a supportive shoe” and end up getting shoes that lock their feet and prevent them from moving and doing their thing. There are some that are just going to make your feet weaker because the shoe’s taking over and your foot is not doing its job.
So the short answer is to wear shoes that make your foot and knee the most comfortable.
If you don’t like shoes that have a lot of cushioning or shoes that are extra stiff and supportive and you want a nimble shoe that’s flexible but allows your foot to move and make your knees and foot better, wear those shoes.
Don’t choose a really stiff, rigid shoe with a big strong arch support area unless that’s the kind of shoe that feels most comfortable for you when you’re up and around on your feet.
Just remember that your body will always tell what it likes and doesn’t like pretty quickly.
So, the footwear that feels best is the shoe that you can wear the longest and feel good in. This is likely the best shoe for your bad knees.
Some said that flat flexible shoes are better than support shoes. However, this study found that out of 164 patients with knee osteoarthritis, stable supportive shoes improved knee pain on walking more than flat flexible shoes.
Should you buy shoes online if you have bad knees?
A lot of people waste money and make mistakes by purchasing a shoe online. They don’t really know how their foot is going to respond to the shoe and end up buying more and more and more.
It doesn’t have to be that way. I highly recommend trying the shoes on, find out what you like, find out what your foot likes, and then order them online for future purposes.
Are New Balance shoes good for bad knees?
The short answer is definitely. The New Balance 928v3 and the New Balance 813v1 are two of the best New Balance shoes you can get if you have bad knees.
Are Skechers good for bad knees?
Yes, some Skechers like the Go Walk 5 are very popular for people with knee problems. It is supportive, cushiony, and shock-absorbing, which makes it super comfy for all-day wear and traveling.
Which Hoka is best for bad knees
The Hoka Bondi is one of the best Hoka styles you can get for bad knees. It’s super cushiony, bouncy, and actually absorbs tons of shock instead of your knees and joints.
What can you do to avoid bad knees?
You basically need to strengthen your stabilizing muscles on the inside of the knee and keep the outside of the ITB nice and loose.
The pain also comes a lot from the hips. So stretching well through the hips, piriformis, buttocks, and hamstrings helps with keeping the knee and the knee joint in place.
I’m big on Stairmaster, elliptical, and swimming. These activities stretch through your stomach and keep your spine nice and straight and build your lower abs.
So there you have it. These were some of the best walking shoes for bad knees. Please share your experience if you’ve ever had some shoes that you swear by.
Stay safe and I’ll see you in the next one 🙂
Which pair is the best for hiking?
I don’t think these shoes are designed for hiking. Yet, the Keen Presidio above has a version for hiking.
I have bone to bone knees and hurting feet I need arch in walking shoes, I can’t spend a lot don’t have it but need something to help me walk without so much pain what will do. It
Hey Carol. I’m so sorry for your condition and I hope you find some really well-fitting shoes for you. Your condition needs some serious support and I suggest you visit a podiatrist as soon as possible. They will certainly know the amount of support you need and most of the time they would recommend custom orthotics. Good luck.