If you’ve ever stood up and felt that sharp jab or deep ache in your knee, you’re not alone. Arthritic knees affect millions and the right shoes can make a surprisingly big difference.
As a physio, I’ve seen firsthand how supportive footwear can help people walk farther, feel more stable, and reduce those end-of-day flare-ups. But not all “comfort shoes” are created equal.
In this blog, I’ll walk you through:
- My top shoe picks for arthritic knees
- What to look for (and avoid!) in a shoe
- Why shoes are just one piece of the puzzle – and what else actually helps
Let’s get stuck in.
Top Physio Tip:
Shoes Help, But They’re Not Everything
Shoes can reduce impact and improve comfort – but they won’t strengthen your knee or solve instability.
The latest NICE guidelines emphasise that strengthening and self-management strategies should be the first line of care for arthritis. That means:
- Building muscle support around the knee
- Improving your walking mechanics
- Reducing inflammation through smart movement
- Learning how to pace and manage your activities
Your knee will thank you! Click to learn more about this physio led program for your arthritic knee.
Note: This post contains affiliate links. If you choose to make a purchase, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Thank you for supporting my work, everything I recommend is to help you.
Favourite in Clinic: Skechers Arch Fit
Why it helps:
✔️ Excellent arch support designed by podiatrists
✔️ Cushioned sole with good shock absorption
✔️ Roomy toe box and breathable upper
Skechers Arch Fit are an absolute favourite in my clinic — I spotted three pairs just today! They offer amazing arch support and feel really comfy right out of the box. If you’re after something reliable for everyday wear that looks good and supports your knees, these are definitely worth trying. Just make sure you get the Arch Fit ones.
- Womens Sketchers Arch Fits – click here for link
- Mens Sketchers Arch Fits – click here for link
Best Overall Walking Shoe for Arthritic Knees: HOKA Bondi 9
Why it helps:
✔️ Ultra-cushioned midsole
✔️ Rocker sole reduces knee strain
✔️ Supportive yet lightweight
These feel like walking on clouds — perfect if you spend a lot of time on your feet or want to stay active without that knee ache creeping in. The slightly rockered sole helps reduce load through the knee, which is especially helpful if you’re dealing with arthritis flare-ups. I’d totally recommend these for everyday comfort, whether it’s your daily walk or just standing at work.
- Womens HOKA Bondi 9 – Click here for link
- Mens HOKA Bondi 9 – Click here for link
Best Everyday Support Shoe: Brooks Adrenaline GTS 25 or ASICS Gel-Kayano 30
Why it helps:
✔️ Excellent structured support and stability
✔️ GuideRails™ (Brooks) or Dynamic DuoMax™ (ASICS) for efficient stride and reduced knee stress
✔️ Balanced cushioning for walking and all-day wear
These shoes are perfect if your knees feel wobbly or stiff. They guide your stride, reduce impact, and give you confidence on longer walks. ASICS Gel-Kayano 30 offers a cushioned, stable option that is comfortable straight out of the box, while Brooks Adrenaline GTS 25 is ideal if you prefer extra guidance for your stride mechanics.
- Classic support – Brooks Adrenaline GTS 24 Men’s / Brooks Adrenaline GTS 24 – Womens
- Latest version – Brooks Adrenaline GTS 25 Men’s / Brooks Women’s Adrenaline GTS 25
- ASICS Gel-Kayano 30 – Womens / Mens
Best Slip-On Option: Skechers Arch Fit Slip-Ons
Why it helps:
✔️ Easy on and off — perfect if bending is tricky
✔️ Shock-absorbing sole with Arch Fit support
✔️ Roomy toe box for swollen or stiff joints
Skechers Arch Fit slip-ons are hugely popular in my clinic because they combine convenience with proper arch support. They’re ideal for everyday wear when your knees are sensitive, and patients love that they don’t have to struggle with laces.
- Women’s Skechers Arch Fit Slip-On – click here for link
- Men’s Skechers Arch Fit Slip-On – click here for link
Best for Outdoor Walks or Hikes: New Balance Fresh Foam X 880 v14, More Trail v4, or ASICS Gel-Nimbus 26
Why it helps:
✔️ Cushioned yet responsive
✔️ Excellent heel-to-toe transition
✔️ Good grip and lateral stability
If you love getting outside and exploring, these shoes will keep your knees happy without holding you back. New Balance provides excellent cushioning with a slightly rockered sole for smoother stride mechanics, while ASICS Gel-Nimbus 26 offers plush shock absorption and supportive stability on uneven paths. Perfect for hiking or longer walks without pain slowing you down.
- New Balance Fresh Foam X 880 v14 – Women / Men
- New Balance More Trail v4 – Women / Mens
- ASICS Gel-Nimbus 26 – Women / Mens
What to Look for in a Shoe for Arthritic Knees
If you can’t try everything on, here’s what to prioritise:
✅ Cushioning: You want shock absorption to protect the joint
✅ Arch Support: Crucial for alignment and preventing overloading
✅ Stable Sole: Avoid flimsy or too flexible soles
✅ Roomy Toe Box: Especially if you have bunions or other joint changes
❌ Avoid flat or unsupportive shoes during flare-ups — especially when your knees feel sensitive. Minimalist footwear is great for some people but should be introduced gradually alongside strength and mobility work.
I always say, a good shoe is like a best friend for your knees — it supports, cushions, and protects. So if your current slippers or shoes feel flimsy or painful, it’s definitely time to consider something that really cares for your joints.
Want Help Getting Started?
Remember – Shoes can reduce impact and improve comfort, but they won’t strengthen your knee or solve instability.
If your knee is sore, swollen, or flaring up easily, shoes alone won’t get you back on track. That’s why I created a free masterclass just for people with arthritic knees. Inside, I share:
- Why your knee pain flares — and how to settle it
- The big mistakes people make when trying to “strengthen”
- What to do (and what to avoid) if you want to feel confident moving again
Join the Free Arthritic Knee Masterclass here
Final Thoughts
The right shoes can be a game-changer for arthritic knees — offering support, shock absorption, and stability. But they’re not a cure-all.
The best approach? A combination of:
✔️ Supportive footwear
✔️ Targeted strengthening
✔️ Daily management strategies that protect and nurture your knees
I cover all of these and more on my Arthritic Knee Program.
There’s a lot you can do to keep moving confidently. If I can help in anyway, you know where I am.
Take care, Helen
Helen Manders BSc (Hons) MCSP HCPC
Chartered Physiotherapist Treating Arthritic Knees Since 2001
Ready to get your knee feeling stronger and more comfortable? I would love to help. Learn how here.
