Bad knees can be a real pain, especially for those who like to stay active. If you’re someone who loves to hit the gym, you know how important it is to have the right gear, including the right shoes. Wearing the wrong shoes can exacerbate knee pain and even lead to further damage. That’s why we’ve spent hours researching and testing to find the best gym shoes for bad knees.
When it comes to gym shoes for bad knees, there are a few things to keep in mind. First and foremost, you want a shoe that provides ample support and cushioning. This will help absorb shock and reduce the impact on your knees. Look for shoes with a thick, sturdy sole and plenty of padding in the heel and forefoot.
Another important factor to consider is the fit of the shoe. A shoe that is too tight or too loose can cause discomfort and even lead to injury. Make sure to measure your feet and try on shoes in a variety of sizes to find the perfect fit. You may also want to look for shoes with adjustable laces or straps to ensure a snug, secure fit.
Finally, it’s important to choose a shoe that is designed specifically for the type of exercise you’ll be doing. Running shoes, for example, are designed to provide forward motion and may not be the best choice for lateral movements like those in a dance class. Cross-training shoes, on the other hand, are designed to provide support for a variety of activities and may be a better choice for those with bad knees.
At the end of the day, finding the best gym shoes for bad knees is all about finding the right combination of support, cushioning, and fit. With our extensive research and testing, we’ve identified the top shoes on the market that meet all of these criteria. Read on to discover our top picks and start enjoying your workouts without knee pain.
Best Gym Shoes for Bad Knees
As fitness enthusiasts, we understand the importance of finding the right pair of gym shoes. However, for those with bad knees, the search can be even more daunting. That’s why we’ve put together a list of the best gym shoes for bad knees. These shoes offer the necessary support and cushioning to help alleviate knee pain during workouts. So, without further ado, here are our top picks for the best gym shoes for bad knees.
ALEADER Women’s Energycloud Lightweight Slip On Walking Running Shoes
If you’re looking for a comfortable and stylish pair of shoes that won’t hurt your knees, then you should definitely consider the ALEADER Women’s Energycloud Lightweight Slip On Walking Running Shoes.
Pros
- The stretchy and comfortable foot-hugging knit material provides breathability and flexibility, making these shoes perfect for everyday wear.
- The Energycloud midsole and outsole offer step-in comfort and superior cushioning, which makes each step feel like you’re walking on clouds.
- The cushiony, moisture-wicking, and odor-reducing insole ensures that your feet stay comfortable and fresh all day long.
Cons
- The shoes may not be suitable for people with wider feet as they have a female-friendly fit.
- Some users have reported that the shoes are slightly larger than expected, so it’s important to check the size chart before purchasing.
- The shoes may not be as durable as some other options on the market.
We recently tried out the ALEADER Women’s Energycloud Lightweight Slip On Walking Running Shoes and were impressed by their overall comfort and style. The slip-on design makes them easy to put on and take off, while the adjustable shoelace ensures a snug fit. We found that the shoes were perfect for everyday wear, whether we were walking, running, or simply running errands.
The foot-hugging knit material was stretchy and comfortable, providing the breathability and flexibility we needed to stay comfortable all day long. The Energycloud midsole and outsole provided superior cushioning, which made every step feel like we were walking on clouds. The cushiony, moisture-wicking, and odor-reducing insole ensured that our feet stayed comfortable and fresh, even after a long day of wear.
However, we did notice that the shoes may not be suitable for people with wider feet, as they have a female-friendly fit. Additionally, some users have reported that the shoes are slightly larger than expected, so it’s important to check the size chart before purchasing. Finally, while we found the shoes to be comfortable and stylish, they may not be as durable as some other options on the market.
Overall, we would recommend the ALEADER Women’s Energycloud Lightweight Slip On Walking Running Shoes to anyone looking for a comfortable and stylish pair of shoes that won’t hurt their knees.
Kundork Women’s Tennis Shoes
If you’re looking for comfortable gym shoes that won’t hurt your knees, Kundork Women’s Tennis Shoes are a great choice.
Pros
- The memory foam insole provides excellent cushioning and support for your feet, making them comfortable to wear all day long.
- The lightweight mesh upper is breathable and flexible, allowing your feet to move freely without feeling restricted.
- The slip-on design with adjustable closure makes it easy to put them on and take them off, while the padded collar and tongue ensure a snug fit around your ankles.
Cons
- The sizing can be a bit off, so make sure to check the size chart carefully before ordering.
- The shoes are not very durable and may start to show signs of wear and tear after a few months of use.
- The non-slip outsole is not very effective on wet or slippery surfaces, so be careful when walking on wet floors or outside in rainy weather.
We’ve been using Kundork Women’s Tennis Shoes for a few weeks now, and we’re really impressed with their comfort and support. The memory foam insole is especially nice, as it molds to the shape of your feet and provides a customized fit. We also appreciate the slip-on design, which makes it easy to get them on and off quickly.
One thing to note is that the sizing can be a bit tricky, so make sure to measure your feet carefully and consult the size chart before ordering. We found that they run a bit large, so you may want to consider ordering a half size smaller than you normally wear.
Overall, we think that Kundork Women’s Tennis Shoes are a great choice for anyone looking for comfortable and supportive gym shoes that won’t aggravate knee pain. They’re versatile enough to wear for a variety of activities, from walking and running to tennis and other sports. Plus, they come in a range of fun colors to suit your personal style.
Skechers Max Cushioning Elite-Performance Walking & Running Shoe Sneaker
If you’re looking for a comfortable gym shoe that’s easy on the knees, the Skechers Max Cushioning Elite-Performance Walking & Running Shoe Sneaker is a great option.
Pros
- The ULTRA GO cushioned platform provides excellent shock absorption, making these shoes comfortable for long workouts.
- The Air Cooled Goga Mat insole provides additional support and cushioning for your feet.
- The forefoot flex grooves and mid-foot strike zone promote a smooth and efficient stride.
Cons
- The shoes may feel a bit heavy for some users, weighing in at 11.5 oz. per shoe.
- The 6mm heel drop height may take some getting used to for those used to lower drop shoes.
- Some users may find the design too plain or unappealing.
We’ve been using these shoes for our gym workouts for a few weeks now and have been impressed with their comfort and support. The ULTRA GO cushioned platform does an excellent job of absorbing shock and reducing impact on the knees, making these shoes a great option for those with knee pain.
The Air Cooled Goga Mat insole also provides additional cushioning and support, which is especially helpful during high-impact exercises like running or jumping. The forefoot flex grooves and mid-foot strike zone also help to promote a smooth and efficient stride, which can help reduce the risk of injury.
While the shoes may feel a bit heavy for some users, we found that the added cushioning and support more than made up for it. The 6mm heel drop height may take some getting used to, especially if you’re used to lower drop shoes, but we found that it didn’t take long to adjust.
Overall, if you’re looking for a comfortable and supportive gym shoe that’s easy on the knees, the Skechers Max Cushioning Elite-Performance Walking & Running Shoe Sneaker is definitely worth checking out.
ASICS Gel-Excite 9 Running Shoes
If you’re looking for a comfortable and durable pair of gym shoes that are easy on your knees, the ASICS Gel-Excite 9 Running Shoes are a great option.
Pros
- The engineered jacquard mesh upper creates a soft and breathable feel against the foot, perfect for long workouts.
- With AMPLIFOAM cushioning, these shoes are designed to improve durability and create a more flexible feel at footstrike, making them comfortable for all types of exercises.
- The Rearfoot GEL technology improves impact absorption and creates a softer feeling at footstrike, which is great for those with bad knees.
Cons
- The insoles are not fantastically supportive in the arch, but can be easily replaced.
- Some users have reported holes in the toe area of the shoes after a few months of use.
- These shoes may require a break-in period before they become fully comfortable.
In our experience, the ASICS Gel-Excite 9 Running Shoes are a great choice for those with bad knees who are looking for a comfortable and durable pair of gym shoes. The Ortholite Sockliner provides moisture management, which is a nice bonus for those who sweat heavily during workouts. Additionally, the Guidance Line Midsole Technology improves gait efficiency, making these shoes a great choice for runners.
Overall, we highly recommend the ASICS Gel-Excite 9 Running Shoes for anyone looking for a comfortable and durable pair of gym shoes that are easy on the knees.
Mishansha Womens Sneakers
If you’re looking for a comfortable and supportive pair of gym shoes for bad knees, then the Mishansha Womens Sneakers might be just what you need.
Pros
- The breathable and lightweight knitted material of the upper provides strong wrapping and won’t make your feet feel stuffy during long workouts.
- The double air cushion design increases the elasticity and provides excellent cushioning, protecting your knees and feet to a greater extent.
- The EVA sole is wear-resistant and durable, and the sole is affixed with a rubber patch to increase friction, making it non-slip and safe to use.
Cons
- The sizing may run a bit large, so it’s important to double-check before making a purchase.
- Some users have reported that the arch support insoles provided with the shoes are not very effective, so you may need to purchase additional insoles if you require more support.
- The sole may feel a bit hard for some users, which can cause jarring in the knees and back when walking long distances.
Overall, the Mishansha Womens Sneakers are a great option for those in need of comfortable and supportive gym shoes for bad knees. The breathable material, double air cushion design, and durable sole make them a great choice for a variety of activities, from running and walking to weight training and yoga. Just be sure to double-check the sizing and consider purchasing additional insoles if necessary.
Buying Guide
When it comes to choosing the best gym shoes for bad knees, there are a few key features that you should keep in mind. Here are some things to consider before making your purchase:
Comfort
Comfort is key when it comes to gym shoes, especially if you have bad knees. Look for shoes with ample cushioning and support to help absorb shock and reduce impact on your joints. The shoes should fit well and not pinch or rub in any areas.
Support
In addition to comfort, support is crucial for those with bad knees. Look for shoes with good arch support and stability features to help keep your feet and knees in proper alignment during exercise. Shoes with a wider base and good traction can also help prevent slips and falls.
Flexibility
While support and cushioning are important, you also want shoes that are flexible enough to allow for natural movement. Look for shoes with a flexible sole and breathable materials to help keep your feet cool and comfortable during workouts.
Fit
Proper fit is essential for any gym shoe, but it’s especially important for those with bad knees. Make sure to measure your feet and try on shoes in-store to ensure a proper fit. Shoes that are too tight or too loose can cause discomfort and potentially exacerbate knee problems.
Durability
Finally, consider the durability of the shoes. Look for shoes made with high-quality materials that can withstand the wear and tear of regular gym use. While it may be tempting to opt for a cheaper option, investing in a durable pair of gym shoes can save you money in the long run by reducing the need for frequent replacements.