The Best Shoes for Kids with Knee Pain – Don’t Assume It’s Just Growing Pains!

June 19, 2025 Knee Pain Juan Valenzuela 0 - Comments

Does your child complain about knee pain, and you’re unsure whether it’s just “growing pains” or something more? Maybe you’ve already seen a medical professional who said your child will outgrow the pain—but your instincts tell you otherwise. Knee pain in children is often linked to overuse injuries or biomechanical issues like flat feet, and the right shoes can make a big difference. In this article, I’ll share the best shoes for kids with leg and knee pain based on years of hands-on shoe fitting experience. These supportive styles help align the feet, knees, and hips—easing pain and promoting healthy movement.

What Reason Is Causing Your Child’s Knee Pain?

There are many possible causes of knee pain in children—ranging from injuries and medical conditions to infections. However, one of the most overlooked yet common causes is improper footwear. Shoes that are unsupportive or the wrong size can place unnecessary stress on your child’s knees. Before jumping to conclusions, start by checking your child’s shoes. In many cases, knee pain is linked to overuse injuries from activities like running or jumping, biomechanical issues such as flat feet or high arches, and even growth spurts. The right shoes can make a significant difference in managing and preventing discomfort.

Image of a child with flat feet standing barefoot.
Image of a child with flat feet showing how foot collapse affects body alignment and can lead to knee pain from added pressure on the joints.

What a Difference the Correct Pair of Shoes Can Make!

For comparison purposes, let’s take a look at two pictures of a flat-footed child standing barefoot and a different one of the same child wearing supportive shoes.

child-with-flat-feet
Before image: A child with flat feet stands barefoot, clearly showing how the arches collapse and the feet roll inward without proper support.
supportive-shoes-with-straight-lasts-for-children-with-flat-feet
After Image: See how much straighter the child’s feet appear with the right shoes? The sturdy sole and firm heel counter are providing the support needed to prevent the feet from collapsing and turning inward—promoting better alignment and stability.

It’s important for parents to know that not all kids’ shoes are created equal—some offer far more cushioning and support than others, which can make a big difference in comfort and foot health.

Are Supportive Shoes Better than Minimalist Shoes?

A common question parents ask is whether supportive shoes are better than minimalist ones. The answer is yes, especially if your child has foot conditions. Minimalist shoes might work for some, but they often lack the structure needed to support children with biomechanical issues. While minimalist shoes can promote natural foot movement, they do not provide the necessary cushioning and support that many children need. For those with flat feet or high arches, the lack of support can exacerbate alignment issues and lead to increased knee pain.

Key Features of Supportive Shoes for Kids with Knee Pain

Feature One: Stable Base of Support. A stable base is crucial for ensuring that your child’s feet are well-supported. This feature helps maintain proper alignment from the ground up, reducing undue stress on the knees. A stable base also contributes to a child’s overall balance, allowing them to engage in physical activities without the risk of falls or injuries. It ensures that the impact from walking or running is evenly distributed, thus protecting the knees from excessive strain.

supportive-shoes-for-children-with-flat-feet
Here’s a side-by-side look at the difference between a supportive shoe and one that lacks proper structure—can you spot which one will better protect your child’s feet?

Feature Two: Firm Heel Counters. This feature is particularly important for children with flat feet or other biomechanical issues. By keeping the heel in place, firm heel counters help maintain the natural alignment of the foot, thereby reducing the risk of knee pain.

children's-shoes-with-heel-support
Now let’s compare two shoes side by side—one with a soft heel counter that easily collapses, and another with a firm, structured heel counter that provides essential ankle support and stability.

Feature Three: Supportive While Lightweight and Flexible. Supportive shoes don’t have to be heavy. In fact, lightweight and flexible shoes can offer the necessary support without compromising comfort or movement. Children are naturally active and need footwear that can keep up with their energy levels.

children's-shoes-with-the-correct-amount-of-flexibility
Your kids’ shoes should flex at the ball of the foot—right where the toes bend—but stay firm everywhere else. This ensures natural movement without sacrificing support.

Below are my top shoe recommendations for 2025, selected for their standout features and proven comfort. Each style is also available in multiple widths—medium (M), wide (W), and extra wide (XW)—to ensure the perfect fit for every foot shape. Disclosure: Some links may be affiliate links, meaning we earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Best Shoes for Kids with Knee Pain – My Top Recommendations

We want to find a shoe that won’t interfere with your child’s normal stride pattern, meaning that we need to stay away from rigid and stiff shoes and look for shoes that offer cushion and flexibility at the same time.

1. Shoe Style Fresh Foam 625 by New Balance

These New Balance running shoes for knee pain are perfect for kids who need a reliable all-around shoe, capable of supporting diverse sports engagements.

New Balance running shoe for girls.
Red New Balance running shoe for boys.

Key Features

  • Available for big kids
  • Order the shoe Fresh Foam 625 by New Balance on Amazon or the New Balance website
  • Available in medium, wide, and extra wide widths
  • Fresh Foam midsole cushioning provides an ultra-cushioned, lightweight ride
  • Padded collar and tongue
  • I suggest that you get this shoe a half size larger than your child’s current foot size

2. Shoe Style Cumulus by Asics

These supportive running shoes for knee pain feature a cushioned midsole, durable outsole, and breathable upper, making them ideal for kids with foot or leg pain.

Supportive Asics Cumulus running shoe for girls.
Asics kids Cumulus supportive running shoe for boys.

Key Features

  • Order the shoe Cumulus by Asics on Amazon
  • Available for little and big kids
  • Fits narrow or medium feet
  • I suggest that you get this shoe a whole size larger than your child’s current foot size

3. Shoe Style Mach by Hoka

These supportive shoes for kids with knee pain provide a plush midsole with superior shock absorption, while the lightweight design ensures ease of movement.

Hoka Mach for kids.
Hoka shoe style Mach for boys and girls.

Key Features

  • Order the shoe Mach by Hoka on Amazon or Zappos
  • Available for big kids
  • Fits children with medium or wide feet
  • Cushioned midsole for shock absorption
  • Durable outsole with excellent traction
  • Ideal for children who need extra support from their shoes
  • I suggest that you get this shoe a half size larger than your child’s current foot size

4. Shoe Style 237 and 327 by New Balance

These New Balance shoes for knee pain are perfect for kids who want to make a fashion statement while enjoying the benefits of supportive footwear.

New Balance running shoes for girls.
New Balance running shoes for boys.

Key Features

  • Order the shoe 237 and 327 by New Balance on Amazon or the New Balance website
  • Fits medium or wide feet
  • Breathable mesh upper
  • Padded collar and tongue
  • I suggest that you get this shoe a half size larger than your child’s current foot size

5. Shoe Style 1906 by New Balance

These are some of the best New Balance shoes for knee pain and they offer a blend of style and functionality. The shoes are designed for both casual wear and athletic performance, making them versatile options for kids with knee pain.

New Balance kids running shoes.
Supportive New Balance shoe for kids with heel pain.

Key Features

  • Order the shoe 1906 by New Balance on the New Balance website
  • Available in medium and wide widths
  • ABZORB midsole absorbs impact through a combination of cushioning and compression
  • Padded collar and tongue
  • I suggest that you get this shoe a half size larger than your child’s current foot size

6. Hoka Clifton

These Hoka shoes for knee pain are a popular choice for their comfort and versatility. They are suitable for everyday wear, from school days to high-impact and sports activities.

Hoka Clifton for kids.
Hoka Clifton model for boys and girls.

Key Features

  • Order the shoe Clifton by Hoka on Amazon or Zappos
  • Fits children with medium or wide feet
  • Lightweight and breathable
  • Plush cushioning for all-day comfort
  • Supportive outsole
  • Ideal for children who need extra support from their shoes

7. Shoe Style GT-1000 by Asics

These are some of the best running shoes for knee pain as they have infused gel below the heels for extra support and stability.

Supportive red Asics shoes for boys with flat feet.
Supportive Asics running shoe for kids in mint color for girls.

Key Features

  • Order the shoe GT-1000 by Asics on Zappos or Amazon
  • Available for little and big kids
  • Fits narrow or medium feet
  • Extra cushion and padding right below the heels
  • I suggest that you get this shoe a whole size larger than your child’s current foot size

8. Shoe Style Kinvara by Saucony

These kids’ shoes for knee pain are lightweight and offer excellent cushioning and flexibility. It’s perfect for kids who enjoy running and other high-impact activities.

Saucony orange running shoes for kids.
Saucony teal running shoes for girls.

Key Features

  • Order the shoe Kinvara by Saucony on Amazon
  • Available in medium and wide widths
  • Foam padding placed around the ankle collar and under the tongue
  • Comfort sockliner molds to your foot with padding in the heel for ultimate cushioning at heel-strike
  • Engineered mesh for structure, stretch and enhanced breathability
  • I suggest that you get this shoe a half size larger than your child’s current foot size

9. Shoe Style 990v6 by New Balance

These are the absolute best shoes for knee pain. The robust outsole helps distribute weight evenly across the foot and reduces strain on the muscles and joints. The downside that many parents complain about is the high price tag.

990v6 New Balance shoe with laces in black for kids.
New Balance 990 for kids with laces in purple color.
990v6 New Balance shoe with laces in black for kids.

Key Features

  • Available for toddlers, little, and big kids
  • You can order the 990v6 with laces on the New Balance website, Amazon, or Zappos
  • Available in medium, wide, and extra wide widths
  • Also available in pink and navy blue
  • I suggest that you get this shoe a half size larger than your child’s current foot size

10. Shoe Style Cross Em Up by Adidas

The Cross Em Up by Adidas are the best basketball shoes for knee pain. The versatility of the shoe makes it suitable for both sports and everyday wear, adding value for parents looking for multi-functional footwear.

Adidas kids basketball shoe with wide toe-boxes in purple for girls.
Supportive Adidas high top shoe for boys.

Key Features

  • Available for little and big kids
  • Order the shoe Cross Em Up Select by Adidas on Zappos or Amazon
  • Available in medium and wide widths
  • I suggest that you get this shoe a whole size larger than your child’s current foot size

Reach Out for Tailored Shoe Recommendations

It’s important to reach out for specific shoe recommendations tailored to your child’s foot shape and degree of pain. A professional shoe fitter can offer invaluable guidance, ensuring that you select the best shoes for your child’s unique needs. Personalized recommendations take into account the specific contours and requirements of your child’s feet, maximizing comfort and support.

The Importance of Wearing the Correct Shoe Size

Wearing shoes that are too long, short, narrow, or wide can throw off your child’s stability and increase the risk of falls. Poorly fitting shoes also prevent your child from getting the full support they need, often leading to foot and leg pain. Finding the right fit—especially when shopping online—can be tough, which is why I created a free virtual shoe fitting service. It helps determine your child’s exact shoe size, foot width (narrow, medium, wide, extra wide), and whether they have a high instep.

Medical professional diagnosing a child with knee pain.
An image of a medical professional carefully evaluating a child’s knee, looking for the source of discomfort and assessing joint alignment.

Don’t Take the “Wait and See Approach” – Be Proactive

It’s tempting to wait and see if your child’s knee pain resolves on its own. However, being proactive can prevent further complications and promote healthy development. Supportive shoes, along with possible orthotic interventions, can make a significant difference during the golden years of treatment opportunity. By addressing knee pain early, you can prevent it from escalating into more severe issues that could impact your child’s ability to engage in sports and other activities.

The Importance of Wearing the Correct Types of Shoes

Keep in mind that the wrong pair of shoes can make your child’s existing issues worse and even cause long-term joint problems. Wearing unsupportive shoes puts extra stress on the knees—one of the body’s largest and most impact-prone joints—which can intensify the pain. The right footwear can make a world of difference, and so can regular stretching to keep your child’s muscles and joints flexible and strong.