Introduction
When dealing with knee arthritis, footwear isn’t just a comfort issue—it’s a vital part of managing pain, stability, and mobility. The right shoes provide support, cushioning, and alignment that can significantly reduce the strain on your knees. With a range of options available, this guide will help you compare some of the top brands for arthritic knee support, including Skechers, Birkenstocks, Hoka, Asics, New Balance, and Brooks.
Key Features to Look for in Shoes for Arthritic Knees
Before diving into specific brands, it’s essential to understand the features that make a shoe ideal for arthritic knees:
- Cushioning: Look for shoes with ample cushioning to absorb impact and reduce stress on the knee joints.
- Arch Support: Proper arch support helps align the foot, which can improve knee alignment and reduce pain.
- Stability: A stable shoe prevents excess movement, helping to reduce knee strain.
- Fit: A well-fitting shoe minimizes pressure points and ensures comfort during activities.
** UPGRADE your knee in my FREE Masterclass. Click to learn more. Hope to see you there.
Brand Comparisons
Favourite in Clinic: Skechers Arch Fit
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.
- Excellent arch support designed by podiatrists
- Cushioned sole with good shock absorption
- Roomy toe box and breathable upper
Womens Sketchers Arch Fits – click here for link
Mens Sketchers Arch Fits – click here for link
Birkenstocks
Birkenstocks are widely known for their supportive cork footbeds and their focus on natural foot positioning. While typically associated with sandals, their supportive structure is highly valued for casual wear.
- Arch Support: Birkenstocks offer excellent arch support, promoting proper foot alignment which can benefit knee alignment.
- Cushioning: The cork footbed moulds to the shape of your foot over time, providing a customized cushioning effect.
- Stability: Birkenstocks are known for their wide base, offering stability that reduces knee strain during movement.
- Fit: With adjustable straps on many models, Birkenstocks allow for a customized fit, making them suitable for casual, everyday wear.
Best For: Casual wear, especially for those looking for sandals with structured arch support.
Women Birkenstock Arizona Soft Footbed Sandals Amazon UK
Men Birkenstock Milano Sandals Amazon UK
LOOKING FOR SANDALS? Birkenstocks don’t suit everyone – these blogs will help:
Men – The Best Sandals for Arthritic Knees 2026 (Men’s Edition)
Women – Best Sandals for Arthritic Knees (2026): Supportive Styles That Actually Reduce Pain
2. Hoka
Hoka shoes are popular for their thick, cushioned soles and rocker-bottom design, which is especially helpful for people with arthritis.
- Cushioning: Hoka’s thick, soft midsoles offer substantial cushioning, which absorbs impact and reduces stress on the knees.
- Lightweight Design: Despite their maximal cushioning, Hoka shoes are relatively lightweight, reducing leg fatigue.
- Rocker Sole: The rocker-bottom design helps promote a smooth, natural stride, which can reduce knee strain.
- Fit: With a wide toe box and a range of sizes, Hoka shoes accommodate foot swelling and can provide a stable, comfortable fit.
Best For: Those with arthritis who walk frequently or engage in light exercise; ideal for extended wear and active days.
Womens HOKA Bondi 9 – Click here for link
Mens HOKA Bondi 9 – Click here for link
3. Asics
Asics is well-regarded for its reliable arch support and stability features, making it a solid option for arthritis management.
- Cushioning: Many Asics models feature gel cushioning, which offers targeted impact absorption, especially helpful for knee arthritis.
- Arch Support: Known for their arch support technology, Asics shoes help align the foot and relieve knee pressure.
- Stability: The brand’s stability shoes are particularly beneficial for people with arthritis, as they help prevent unnecessary movement.
- Fit: Asics shoes come in various widths and designs, allowing for a custom fit that can suit both narrow and wide feet.
Best For: Individuals needing a balance of support, cushioning, and stability for everyday wear or moderate activity.
ASICS Gel-Nimbus 26 – Women / Mens
ASICS Gel-Kayano 30 – Womens / Mens
4. New Balance
New Balance offers a range of supportive footwear known for comfort and durability, especially among those with joint issues.
- Cushioning: With specialized foam midsoles, New Balance shoes offer moderate to high cushioning, depending on the model.
- Arch Support: Many New Balance models offer strong arch support, which can benefit knee alignment.
- Stability: Their motion-control shoes provide excellent stability, which can be helpful for individuals with knee arthritis.
- Fit: New Balance offers a wide range of widths, from narrow to extra-wide, catering to those with unique fit needs due to arthritis.
Best For: Those seeking high stability and arch support for moderate daily activities and light exercise.
New Balance Fresh Foam X 880 v14 – Women / Men
New Balance More Trail v4 – Women / Mens
5. Brooks
Brooks is well-loved by walkers and runners for its soft cushioning and smooth transition design, making it a good choice for knee support.
- Cushioning: Brooks’ signature DNA Loft cushioning provides a soft, impact-absorbing footbed that’s easy on the knees.
- Arch Support: With both neutral and supportive options, Brooks allows for customization based on individual needs.
- Stability: The GuideRails support system in some models offers added stability, helping to prevent excess movement in the knees.
- Fit: Available in multiple widths and sizes, Brooks shoes accommodate various foot shapes and sizes.
Best For: Walking and low-impact activities, especially for those who appreciate a soft, cushioned feel.
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
Final Tips for Choosing the Right Shoes for Arthritic Knees
It’s Not All About Shoes
Footwear can make a big difference – but it’s only one piece of the puzzle. The real long-term win comes from getting your knees stronger, more mobile, and more confident.
If you need help with this, my Online Program for Arthritic Knees is designed to do just that.
The combination of the right shoes and the right exercises is where the magic really happens.
Focus on Fit (This Matters More Than the Brand)
Even the “best” shoes won’t help if they don’t fit you properly.
Look for:
- Enough room in the toe box (no squashing!)
- A secure heel (to reduce unnecessary movement)
- Adjustable features like laces or straps
- Different width options if needed
A good fit helps your foot feel stable and that stability travels up the chain to your knees.
Cushioning vs Support – Find Your Balance
Some people with arthritic knees love a soft, cushioned shoe that absorbs impact. Others feel better with a bit more structure and support.
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer here.
- If your knees feel sore and sensitive → you may prefer more cushioning
- If you feel unstable or achy after walking → you may benefit from more support
The key is to notice how your body responds, not just what the label says.
Find a Brand That Works for You
Once you find a brand that suits your feet, it can make life much easier.
For me, I often lean towards Asics and New Balance, they just seem to work well with my feet. But that doesn’t mean they’ll be right for everyone.
Your feet will always tell you the truth, if something feels comfortable, supportive, and easy to walk in, you’re on the right track.
Don’t Ignore What Your Body Is Telling You
This is a big one.
If a shoe:
- Feels uncomfortable straight away
- Causes new aches or pains
- Leaves your knees feeling worse after walking
…it’s probably not the right fit for you — no matter how highly rated it is.
Comfort and confidence should improve, not decline.
Give New Shoes a Chance (But Not Too Much!)
Some supportive shoes need a short break-in period.
Start with shorter walks and build up gradually. But trust your instincts —
- A slight adjustment period is normal
- Ongoing discomfort is not
Shoes Should Match Your Activity
Not all shoes are created equal and importantly, not all shoes are meant for the same activity.
What works well for a short walk might not be right for a full round of golf, a long hike, or a day on your feet. Choosing activity-specific footwear can make a big difference to how your knees feel during and after.
These blogs should help:
Best House Shoes for Arthritic Knees: Why Going Barefoot Isn’t Always Best
Best Golf Shoes and Gear for Arthritic Knees
Best Running Shoes for Arthritic Knees: Supportive, Cushioned & Ready to Move
Best Tennis Shoes for Arthritic Knees: Support, Cushioning, and Comfort on the Court
Best Pickleball Shoes for Arthritic Knees: Stability and Cushioning to Keep You Playing
Best Walking and Hiking Shoes for Arthritic Knees: Comfort, Support & Stability on the Move
When in Doubt, Get Expert Guidance
If you’re unsure what’s best for your knees, speaking to a professional can really help.
A Chartered Physiotherapist can assess how you move, identify what your knees need, and guide you towards the right combination of footwear and exercises. Find a Chartered Physiotherapist near you – CSP.
A Final Thought
The “perfect” shoe doesn’t exist – but the right shoe for you absolutely does.
When you combine:
✔️ A good fit
✔️ The right level of support or cushioning
✔️ Strong, well-functioning knees
…you give yourself the best chance of staying active, comfortable, and confident.
Take care, Helen
Helen Manders BSc (Hons) MCSP HCPC
Chartered Physiotherapist Treating Arthritic Knees Since 2001
