Looking for best running shoes for sensitive knees? You definately should – your knees deserve better than a random pair of sneakers. Trust me—I’ve been there.
As someone who’s been running for years with sensitive knees (and zero desire to quit), I know just how much the right shoes matters. It can keep you motivated for training or it can make you wake up with aching joints – it quite often comes down to what’s on your feet. So make your research before buying a new pair, especially when you are training for a marathon.
I was a long-time Nike Lunarglide fan—they were my everything and I really mean it, I had a lot of pairs of them. But after they were discontinued, I went on a mission to find a replacement. I tested, read endless reviews and finally found my new go-to: Nike Pegasus.
This post includes the shoes I’ve researched, tested, loved and would recommend for anyone who wants to keep running without hurting their knees—whether you’re training for your first marathon or just trying to stay consistent.
👟 What to Look for in Knee-Friendly Running Shoes
Sensitive knees need:
- Soft cushioning to absorb shock – the most important quality to be the best running shoe for sensitive knees
- Good support if you overpronate
- Secure, comfortable fit that doesn’t cause friction or blisters (be aware that marathon training shoes need to be bit bigger size than your usual size)
- Heel-to-toe drop that suits your running form (a bit of drop is usually knee-friendly)
🏆 Best Running Shoes for Sensitive Knees in 2025
1. Nike Pegasus 41
💬 Affordable, reliable and a real workhorse
- Weight: ~280g
- Drop: 10mm
- Best for: Daily runs, marathons, short sprints — all in one
- Why it helps: Smooth cushioning, solid support, and Nike fit (no blisters!)
After mourning the end of Lunarglide, I needed a shoe that could do it all. After endless reasearch and considering all the fancy, bouncy running shoes, I chose the Nike Pegasus and it’s been really trustworthy choice. They’re not the “fastest,” but for someone who runs with kids, a full-time job and marathon dreams, they’re just right. Good price, great quality and the only brand that consistently fits me without causing hot spots or blisters. (ASICS are amazing for many people—but they just don’t work for my feet.)
Performance of the new ReactX foam on these Nike Pegasus 41 is really amazing and if you are beginner in running, then this pair should definately be considered – they work from short easy runs to marathons like a charm.
2. Hoka Clifton 9
💬 Ultra-light cushion that feels like clouds
- Weight: ~250g
- Drop: 5mm
- Best for: Easy runs, recovery days
- Why it helps: Soft midsole that absorbs shock really well
Clifton 9 is more affordable than a lot other running shoes – but it’s still a premium option, which can handle both short easy runs and speedwork, but similarly to Pegasus 41 it’s not the fastest shoe but can really build up miles with it.
3. Brooks Glycerin 21
💬 Pillowy soft and stable, perfect for longer distances
- Weight: ~270g
- Drop: 10mm
- Best for: Long runs, joint protection
- Why it helps: DNA Loft v3 = soft but responsive
Brooks Glycerin – max cushioned and stable trainer which is extremely good choice when you are neutral runner. Thanks to it’s great stability, its ideal for everyday runs and also for longer runs.
4. ASICS Gel-Nimbus 26
💬 Beloved by many runners — if they fit your foot
- Weight: ~270g
- Drop: 8mm
- Best for: Neutral runners
- Why it helps: Soft GEL tech cushioning
Asics running shoes are one of the most popular ones and I really wanted to love these, but no matter the size or type, I always get blisters with ASICS. They just don’t fit my feet right. But for most runners Asics is the best choice so it wont be right to leave them out, just because my feet have issues with them – they truly are amazing choice, that excels in long distance, has excellent stability and gives maximum comfort in long runs and in recovery runs.
5. Nike Vomero 18
💬 Bouncy, cushioned, and surprisingly soft
- Weight: ~280g
- Drop: 10mm
- Best for: Recovery runs, daily runs, long distance running
- Why it helps: ZoomX foam makes impact feel like nothing
Saved something really sweet for last. Do you have extra sensitive knees and are searching for extra support? Nike Vomero 18 has more ZoomX cushioning than ever before. If you are willing to spend more, this is a real upgrade from Pegasus and to be honest, I am considering on making that upgrade soon too (although I am extremely happy and satisfied with Pegasus). It offers bit more stability and the durability of the materials is really something else.
🙋♀️ Why Shoe Fit Matters More Than Brand
Everyone’s feet and running form are different. As I already said, for me, Nike shoes have always been the best fit — zero blisters, natural feel, and consistent sizing. Others might swear by ASICS or Brooks. The key is:
Try shoes that match your needs AND your feet.
The best shoes for your feet doesnt necessary have to be the most expensive brand, the most fanciest look – sometimes the best option is quite reasonably priced and looks boring and that totally fine – running shoes (especially for sensitive knees) are the one piece of equipment where the functionality is the most important thing.
📌 Bonus Tips for Running with Sensitive Knees
- Keep strength training in your weekly routine (glutes and quads matter a lot)
- Run on softer surfaces when possible, whenever it’s possible, I always try to run next to the pavement on the grass
- Keep strides short and light
- Switch between 2 pairs of shoes to reduce joint stress (if possible, I personally have never done it and have just one pair of main running shoes at the time, but I keep hearing on how recommended this is)
💬 Final Thoughts
Finding the right running shoe for your sensitive knees won’t magically fix all knee pain, but it can reduce it a lot. For me, the Nike Pegasus became the shoe that got me back into happy, pain-free running after saying goodbye to Lunarglides. I hope this list helps you find your perfect pair of shoes too.
👉 What running shoes are your favourite? Have you had all time favourite which is discontinued like I have with Lunarglides? Let me know in the comments!