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Supportive and comfortable shoes can help reduce knee and back pain, including pain as a result of osteoarthritis. Here, we discuss 10 of our top picks.
- Best for wide feet: Orthofeet Edgewater Stretch | Skip to review
- Best slip-on shoe: Sketchers GOwalk Joy | Skip to review
- Best road running shoe: Brooks Ghost 15 | Skip to review
- Best for extra comfort: Hoka Bondi 8 | Skip to review
- Best for trail running: Saucony Ride 15 TR | Skip to review
- Best for everyday running: New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080 V12 | Skip to review
- Best for nights: Asics Gel Nimbus 25 | Skip to review
- Best dress shoe: Vionic Willa Women’s Slip-On Flat | Skip to review
- Best for all workouts: Nike Air Max 90 | Skip to review
- Best sliders: Cushionaire +Comfort Sandals | Skip to review
We use “men’s” and “women’s” in this article to align with how companies market their products, but there is no need to stick to one or the other. A person should choose the product with the fit, style, and features that work best for them.
Below, we list some of the top shoes to help reduce the symptoms of knee and back pain.
Please note that the writer of this article has not tried these products. All information presented is purely research-based and correct at the time of publication.
Best for wide feet: Orthofeet Edgewater Stretch
- Price: around $93–$135
- Available sizes: men’s 7–15
- Width: standard, wide, extra-wide, and XX-wide
- Weight: 11.5 ounces (oz)
- Number of colors: three
This shoe is only available in men’s sizing. However, it may be the best option for people with wider feet as it features widths up to XX-wide (6E).
These shoes contain orthotic insoles, providing removable arch support to help support good posture. This may help relieve back pain from stooping and may reduce foot pain from flat feet.
The wide toe box may benefit people with bunions, hammer toes, or people with arthritis in the toes, as there is more space for the toes to sit. The stretchable upper fabric does not constrict, which may help those with swollen feet.
The outsole is rubber, which provides better grip. This may benefit people who are often walking on more slippery surfaces.
Pros
- The arch support is removable, which may mean this shoe is suitable for people with and without flat feet.
- This shoe caters to individuals with wider feet.
- The wide toe box and stretchable upper make this shoe comfortable for people with bunions, hammertoes, and swollen feet.
Cons
- Only available in male sizes.
- Has a fairly high cost in comparison to some competitors.
- Some reviewers comment on a lack of side foot support.
Best slip-on shoe: Sketchers GOwalk Joy
- Price: around $32–$63
- Available sizes: women’s 5–13
- Width: narrow, standard, and wide
- Weight: no information available
- Number of colors: 30
These laceless shoes have a slip-on design, which may be best for people who find laces difficult.
The company states that these vegan shoes are most suitable for walking, with a responsive 5GEN cushioning and a high-rebound cushioned insole to prevent discomfort and pain.
The outsole has flexible traction that may make navigating more slippery areas easier. The mesh upper is breathable, which may help reduce sweating and swelling. The heel has a 1.5-inch height, which may offer more support for people with flat feet.
Pros
- Contains 100% vegan materials.
- The shoe is machine washable, making it easier to clean.
- Some reviewers mention less back, knee, and foot pain when wearing these shoes.
- There is a wide choice of colors available.
- Unlike many supportive shoes, it is available in narrow sizes.
Cons
- Only available in female sizes.
- Some reviewers state that the sizing may run too small or too large.
Best road running shoe: Brooks Ghost 15
- Price: around $140
- Available sizes: men’s 7–15, women’s 5–13
- Width: narrow, standard, wide, and extra-wide
- Weight: 9.10–10.01 oz
- Number of colors: 42–58
Research suggests that aerobic exercise reduces the risk of
Brooks states that these shoes are good as road running shoes, as they provide the right amount of comfort and performance for this type of terrain.
Discover our top picks for the best running shoes.
The midsole features soft and lightweight foam cushioning to provide comfort. It works in tandem with the segmented crash pad to reduce impact and improve support whilst running.
These shoes provide neutral arch support.
Brooks Ghost 15 is also available in women’s sizing.
Pros
- It provides plush cushioning and support, which may help cradle the foot during runs.
- This shoe is available in a wide range of color options for both males and females.
- There are various width options for people to choose from.
Cons
- The mesh material on the upper is not water resistant.
- This shoe may not be out of the price range of some people.
- The shoe provides neutral arch support, which may not be enough for people with flatter feet.
Best for extra comfort: Hoka Bondi 8
- Price: $165
- Available sizes: men’s 7–16, women’s 5–12
- Width: regular, wide, and extra-wide (men’s only)
- Weight: 8.9–10.8 oz
- Number of colors: 21–23
Hoka states that this shoe has ultra-resistant, plush, cushioning foam that is soft and bouncy, reducing the impact from the foot hitting the ground.
The memory foam collar cradles the ankle, and the rear crash pad helps transition force from the heel to the forefront of the toe.
All of these features make the Hoka Bondi 8 a more supportive shoe, which may reduce back and knee pain.
The company states that this shoe is suitable for everyday running, walking, and for when people need extra comfort.
Hoka uses up to 40% recycled materials, and the shoes are vegan.
The Hoka Bondi 8 is also available in men’s sizing.
Pros
- This shoe features vegan-friendly foam for comfort as well as support.
- The Bondi 8 has an American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA) Seal of Acceptance, which acknowledges this shoe benefits foot health.
- The shoe is available in a range of colors and widths.
Cons
- Extra-wide width is not available in women’s sizing.
- The mesh upper is not waterproof.
- More expensive than some other options.
Best for trail running: Saucony Ride 15 TR
- Price: around $140
- Available sizes: men’s 7–15, women’s 5–12
- Width: standard
- Weight: 8.5-9.2 oz for women’s shoe
- Number of colors: five
This shoe is most suitable for trail running, as it delivers comfort and reliable tread for off-road runs.
Read about the best trail running shoes.
It has a FORMFIT design that hugs the foot to provide a personalized fit, which may help reduce pain. Other comfort features include a PWRRUN sockliner, supportive webbing, and a protective and breathable mesh upper.
This shoe is vegan and contains recycled materials.
The Saucony Ride 15 TR is also available in women’s sizing.
Pros
- Provides plenty of cushioning and foam for a comfortable feel.
- Contains vegan-friendly and recycled materials.
- Many reviewers comment on the comfort and cushioning of these shoes.
Cons
- No width choices.
- Fewer color options are available in comparison with competitors.
- Some reviewers suggest inaccurate sizing.
Best for everyday running: New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080 V12
- Price: around $160
- Available sizes: men’s 7–16, women’s 5–13
- Width: narrow, standard, wide, and extra-wide
- Weight: 8.3–10.3 oz
- Number of colors: 26–30
New Balance states that this shoe is suitable for everyday running, from running on roads to catching a train.
The flexible sole provides softer support and extra flexibility, which may be more comfortable for those who find stiffer shoes painful.
The shoes feature a pinnacle underfoot cushioning and midsole mapping. The company says this means there is increased foam to the wider areas of the midsole and increased flexibility to the narrower points.
It is also available in an unlaced version, which may be good for those with arthritis or limited mobility who may find it difficult to use laces or other fastenings.
The New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080 V12 is also available in men’s sizing.
Pros
- Available in an unlaced version.
- Provides soft support and increased flexibility.
- Available in a range of widths and colors for both males and females.
Cons
- Narrow and extra-wide sizes are not available in all colors.
- It may not be good for those who need firmer support.
- More expensive than some other competitors.
Best for nights: Asics Gel Nimbus 25
- Price: around $160
- Available sizes: men’s 6–16, women’s 5–13
- Width: standard, wide, and extra-wide
- Weight: 8.9– 10.2 oz
- Number of colors: 22–24
This shoe has reflective details to improve visibility during low light, which may make exercise safer if a person runs on the road.
The Gel Nimbus 25 has maximum cushioning to provide a soft and smooth running experience. The knit upper provides support and ventilation, and the knit tongue provides ankle support and flexibility.
The PureGel within the shoe increases the cushioning and makes the shoe more lightweight, which may help improve running performance.
Asics states that this shoe is suitable for normal-sized arches.
The Asics Gel Nimbus 25 is also available in women’s sizing.
Pros
- The shoe comes in a range of widths.
- The soft cushioning may provide extra support and reduce impact when running.
- Has reflective details for low light.
Cons
- The tongue does not have padding.
- More expensive than some options.
- Some reviewers mention feet getting hot while wearing the shoes.
Best dress shoe: Vionic Willa Women’s Slip-on Flat
- Price: around $129.95
- Available sizes: women’s 5–11
- Width: standard, wide
- Weight: no information available
- Number of colors: 13
This slip-on has Vio-Motion technology, hugging the arches and providing more structured support. The built-in orthotic may help reduce pain from plantar fasciitis.
These shoes come in a wide range of colors and textures, including leather, suede, and textile.
The company recommends wearing these shoes for a couple of hours a day until a person becomes used to the more supportive feel.
Pros
- The shoes have the APMA Seal of Acceptance.
- It may be most suitable for plantar fasciitis pain.
- Many reviewers state the shoes are comfortable to wear.
Cons
- Only available in women’s sizes.
- Some reviewers state the shoes are too large and too narrow.
Best for all workouts: Nike Air Max 90
- Price: $130
- Available sizes: men’s 6–15, women’s 5–12
- Width: standard
- Weight: no information available
- Number of colors: 5–12
These shoes have high shock absorption, cushioning abilities, and a rubber waffler outsole that provides traction and stability.
Nike states that it originally designed this shoe for running. However, the cushioning makes it suitable for all workouts and activities.
The cushioning can help absorb the impact of the foot hitting the ground, which may reduce pain in the knee and back.
The Nike Air Max 90 is also available in women’s sizes.
Pros
- This shoe has a high amount of cushioning and shock absorption.
- The Air Max is more affordable than some other options.
Cons
- There is no choice of width.
- Some reviewers state that the shoes are too narrow and run small.
Best sliders: Cushionaire +Comfort Sandals
- Price: around $20–$25
- Available sizes: women’s 5–12
- Width: standard
- Weight: no information available
- Number of colors: 30
These sliders are 100% ethylene vinyl acetate, which means that they are soft and bouncy but will warp if a person leaves them out in the sun.
While these shoes may not be a good option for people who wish to exercise or walk outdoors, the 1.75-in platform and cushioned construction may provide extra support and relieve discomfort.
The sliders may be best suited to people who find it difficult to bend down to put shoes on. The shoes are also waterproof.
Pros
- These sliders are the most affordable in this article.
- The slip-on design is good for people who are not comfortable bending down or tying laces.
- The sliders are waterproof.
Cons
- There is no choice of width.
- These shoes are not suitable for exercising.
- These sliders may not have as much grip as traditional shoes and sneakers.
The following table compares the shoes in this article on price, weight, width, and more.
| Price | Available sizes | Width | Weight | Number of colors | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Orthofeet | around $93–$135 | men’s 7–15 | • standard • wide • extra-wide • XX-wide | 11.5 oz | 3 |
| Sketchers | around $32–$63 | women’s 5–13 | • narrow • standard • wide | no information | 30 |
| Brooks | around $140 | • men’s 7–15 • women’s 5–13 | • narrow • standard • wide • extra-wide | 9.10–10.01 oz | 42–58 |
| Hoka | $165 | • men’s 7–16 • women’s 5–12 | • standard • wide • extra-wide | 8.9–10.8 oz | 21–23 |
| Saucony | around $140 | • men’s 7–15 • women’s 5–12 | standard | 8.5–9.2 oz | 5 |
| New Balance | around $160 | • men’s 7–16 • women’s 5–13 | • narrow • standard • wide • extra-wide | 8.3–10.3 oz | 26–30 |
| Asics | around $160 | • men’s 6–16 • women’s 5–13 | • standard • wide • extra-wide | 8.9–10.2 oz | 22–24 |
| Vionic | around $115 | women’s 5–11 | • standard • wide | no information | 13 |
| Nike | $130 | • men’s 6–15 • women’s 5–12 | standard | no information | 5–12 |
| Cushionaire | around $20–25 | women’s 5–12 | standard | no information | 30 |
Medical News Today chooses shoes that meet the following criteria:
- Sizes: MNT chooses shoes that fit the majority of people, including those with narrow, wide, or extra-wide feet.
- Activity: MNT chooses shoes people can wear to work, while exercising, or around the home.
- Support: MNT chooses supportive shoes that provide cushioning for aching joints.
- Price: MNT chooses shoes that meet a range of budgets.
People may wish to consider the following when choosing a shoe:
- Cushioning and support: Pain in the back and knee may mean that a person requires a shoe with extra cushioning and support. Shoes with these features can help reduce strain on joints and absorb the impact of the foot hitting the ground.
- Fit: It is important to wear shoes that fit. According to
research from 2018 , people who wore slip-on shoes and shoes that were narrower than their feet were more likely to have foot problems, including pain. - Weight: Shoes that are too heavy may make walking and exercising uncomfortable. However, shoes that are too light may not provide the right level of support.
- Ease of use: People with long- or short-term conditions that affect the joints or mobility, such as arthritis, may wish to consider buying shoes that have a slip-on or laceless design.
- Cost: People may wish to consider their budget when purchasing new shoes. Additional features usually come with extra costs.
People with knee and back pain may find moving around painful. However, research shows that aerobic activity alongside strengthening exercises
Custom-made orthotic insoles can
The
Supportive shoes may decrease knee pain more than flexible shoes in people with knee osteoarthritis. Additionally, cushioned shoes can
People should contact a doctor if they have knee or back pain that does not go away with rest.
Sometimes, knee and back pain may be the result of osteoarthritis. Common symptoms
- joint aches and pains, especially during or after physical activity
- stiff joints, especially in the morning or after resting
- limited motion in the joint
- a clicking or popping noise when moving the joint
- joint swelling
- joint weakness
- joint instability or buckling
While there is no cure for osteoarthritis, healthcare professionals may recommend several therapies, including physical activity, physical therapy, and medication.
Learn more about osteoarthritis treatment.
Here, we answer some common questions about these shoes.
Do cushioned shoes help with knee pain?
According to a
What shoes are good for support and knee pain?
Shoes with more cushioning and shock absorption may provide more support and reduce knee pain. Running shoes often have in-built support and cushioning, but some orthopedic dress shoes may offer similar benefits.
Can walking make osteoarthritis worse?
No, physical activity can improve symptoms and increase flexibility.
Knee and back pain can result from wearing unsupportive shoes. Another common cause of this pain is osteoarthritis. Supportive and cushioned shoes that provide total foot and ankle support can reduce pain and make exercising easier.