Best running shoes for knee pain

Runner’s knee (patellofemoral pain) is an ache around or behind the kneecap, often worse on stairs, downhills, or after sitting for a while.

A moderate drop shifts a little load away from the knee toward the ankle, and good cushioning softens impact. Strength work for the hips and thighs is usually the bigger part of the fix.

Runner’s knee is felt around or behind the kneecap.

Every runner is different. Take our 2-minute quiz to find the shoes matched to your injuries, feet, routes and budget.

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What to look for

A moderate drop of 4–8 mm
Lower drops can reduce load at the knee compared with very high-drop shoes.
Good cushioning
Around 35 mm or more under the heel to soften landings.
Support if you overpronate
If your feet roll inward, a stability shoe can help keep your knees tracking straight.
Change gradually
If you move to a lower drop, ease in so your calves and Achilles can adapt.

Shoes to consider

These picks come from the same matching logic as our quiz, for a road runner who wants an everyday trainer. Specs are approximate for recent versions.

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1.ASICS Novablast

Neutral shoe

41/33 mm stack8 mm dropabout 256 g

A high-stack, bouncy trainer with a fun, springy ride. It handles easy runs well and still feels lively when you pick up the pace.

  • A moderate 8 mm drop shifts a little load from the knee toward the ankle, and 41 mm of cushion softens impact.
Compare prices for the Novablast

2.Saucony Ride

Neutral shoe

35/27 mm stack8 mm dropabout 264 g

Saucony’s versatile, lighter daily trainer. Moderate cushioning and a balanced feel make it an easy all-rounder.

  • A moderate 8 mm drop shifts a little load from the knee toward the ankle, and 35 mm of cushion softens impact.
Compare prices for the Ride

3.New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080

Neutral shoe

38/32 mm stack6 mm dropabout 283 g

New Balance’s premium cushioned trainer. A soft, plush ride with a lower drop and a roomy fit, available in several widths.

  • A moderate 6 mm drop shifts a little load from the knee toward the ankle, and 38 mm of cushion softens impact.
Compare prices for the Fresh Foam X 1080

4.Hoka Clifton

Neutral shoe

42/34 mm stack8 mm dropabout 275 g

A lightweight max-cushion shoe with a rocker that rolls you smoothly from heel to toe. Comfortable for long and easy miles.

  • A moderate 8 mm drop shifts a little load from the knee toward the ankle, and 42 mm of cushion softens impact.
Compare prices for the Clifton

5.ASICS Gel-Nimbus

Neutral shoe

43/35 mm stack8 mm dropabout 290 g

ASICS’ premium cushioned trainer. Soft, protective and comfortable for long runs and recovery days.

  • A moderate 8 mm drop shifts a little load from the knee toward the ankle, and 43 mm of cushion softens impact.
Compare prices for the Gel-Nimbus

Want picks that also account for your arches, gait, routes and weekly distance?

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Common questions

Is a low-drop shoe better for knee pain?

A moderate drop (4–8 mm) can reduce knee load, but it moves that load to the calf and Achilles. Change gradually, especially if you’ve had calf or Achilles issues.

What else helps runner’s knee?

Hip and quad strengthening, avoiding big jumps in mileage, and shortening your stride slightly all help. A physio can build a plan for you.

Are max-cushion shoes good for knees?

They can feel comfortable, but very tall, soft shoes can be less stable. Choose one that feels steady when you run.