10 Best Walking Shoes For Bad Knees 2025 in the United States

The Skechers Women's Go Walk Joy Sneaker in Taupe is a solid choice for individuals suffering from bad knees. One of its standout features is the lightweight and responsive 5Gen midsole cushioning, which provides excellent shock absorption and comfort during long walks. The Air Cooled Goga Mat insole offers high-rebound cushioning and breathability, making it suitable for extended wear and reducing the likelihood of knee discomfort.

The breathable athletic engineered mesh upper also contributes to comfort by keeping your feet cool and dry. Additionally, the sneaker features a flexible traction outsole, which aids in stability and ensures a reliable grip on various surfaces, an essential factor for those with knee issues. The shoe's design emphasizes a sleek, comfortable walking experience with a soft fabric lining.

One notable benefit is that they are machine washable, making maintenance easy. However, the sneaker's arch support might not be sufficient for everyone, especially those with severe pronation issues. The shoes are also lightweight, which is generally beneficial for reducing strain on the knees. Being crafted from 100% vegan materials is a plus for environmentally conscious consumers. In summary, the Skechers Women's Go Walk Joy Sneaker offers significant cushioning and comfort features, making it a good option for those with bad knees, though individuals with specific arch support needs might need to consider additional insoles.

The New Balance Men's 608 V5 Casual Comfort Cross Trainer is designed to provide ample support and comfort, making it a solid option for those with bad knees. The shoe features an ABZORB midsole, which is excellent at absorbing impact through cushioning and compression resistance, reducing stress on the knees during walking. Additionally, the IMEVA midsole offers firm yet flexible cushioning, contributing to comfort and support.

The internal midsole shank adds necessary midfoot structure and support, which is beneficial for maintaining stability, another key factor for those with knee issues. The leather upper and Phantom Liner interior, with minimal seaming, help prevent irritation, ensuring a comfortable fit. The PU Foam insert is designed for long-lasting comfort and support, making this shoe suitable for extended wear.

However, the shoe's weight of 2.4 pounds may be a bit heavy for some users, potentially causing fatigue over long periods. While the leather material ensures durability, it may not be as breathable as other materials, which could be a concern in warmer climates. This shoe is best suited for individuals who prioritize stability, cushioning, and support in their walking shoes, particularly if they have knee issues.

The Brooks Women’s Ghost Max 2 is an excellent choice for walkers and runners seeking comfort, especially those with knee concerns. One of its standout features is the protective cushioning provided by the nitrogen-infused DNA Loft v3 midsole foam. This design ensures a soft landing, which is crucial for those looking to reduce impact on painful knees. The shoe's broad base contributes to its inherent stability, offering a secure feel that can help prevent injuries, particularly for those who may struggle with balance.

The GlideRoll Rocker technology enhances the shoe’s ability to facilitate smooth transitions from heel to toe, which is beneficial for users with a neutral stride. This feature might help alleviate some discomfort in the joints during movement, making it a solid option for extended walking or running sessions.

The Ghost Max 2 is also versatile; it’s suitable for walking, as it reduces energy absorption in the foot, which can be advantageous for individuals dealing with knee pain. The shoe's design accommodates various foot shapes and can even fit orthotic inserts, adding to its comfort level. However, it's worth noting that the shoe's weight (1.5 pounds) may feel a bit heavier compared to other options in the market. For those who prefer ultra-light shoes, this could be a drawback. Additionally, while the cushioning is excellent for comfort, some users might find that it doesn't offer the same level of ground feel as firmer shoes might. Also, the care instructions specify hand washing only, which could be less convenient for some users.

The Brooks Women’s Ghost Max 2 is a strong contender in the walking shoes category for individuals with bad knees, primarily due to its cushioning, stability, and transitional features. Users should consider their weight preferences and maintenance needs when choosing this shoe.