best cushioned running shoes for bad knees

If knee pain is your main concern, the goal isn't just more cushioning—it's a combination of soft impact absorption, good stability, and a shoe that matches your gait. Extremely soft shoes can actually feel unstable for some runners, so the best choice depends on whether you have a neutral stride or overpronate.
Nike.com
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Here are some of the strongest options available today:

Best overall for most runners
Brooks Glycerin Max 2
$200.00
•
Brooks Running

This is one of the plushest daily trainers on the market while remaining stable enough for long runs and recovery days. If your knees hurt from repeated impact, it's an excellent place to start. It consistently ranks among the top max-cushioned shoes.
Runner's World

Other excellent choices
HOKA Bondi 9
$139.97 · DICK’S Sporting Goods

One of the softest and most protective road-running shoes available. Great for heavier runners, walkers, or anyone doing lots of pavement miles.

Nike Vomero 18
$155.00 · Nike

Combines soft ZoomX foam with a stable platform. It offers excellent cushioning without feeling excessively mushy and is a favorite for everyday mileage.
Runner's World

ASICS GEL-Nimbus 28
$179.99 · DICK’S Sporting Goods

Known for luxurious cushioning and a smooth ride. A strong option if you want maximum comfort over longer distances.

New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080v15
$169.99 · DICK’S Sporting Goods

A versatile daily trainer that's soft, lightweight, and often recommended for runners with joint discomfort.

If you need extra support (overpronation)

If your knees tend to cave inward when running or you've been told you overpronate, consider a cushioned stability shoe:

Brooks Adrenaline GTS 25

ASICS GEL-Kayano 32

Saucony Hurricane 25

Nike Structure Plus

These provide extra guidance without feeling as rigid as older stability shoes.
RTINGS.com
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My recommendations based on your priorities

Maximum cushioning: Brooks Glycerin Max 2 or HOKA Bondi 9

Best balance of cushion and versatility: Nike Vomero 18

Softest traditional daily trainer: ASICS GEL-Nimbus 28

If you also need stability: Saucony Hurricane 25 or ASICS GEL-Kayano 32

One important note: if your knee pain is persistent, changing shoes alone may not solve it. Factors like training volume, strength (especially hips and glutes), running form, and cadence often play just as big a role as the shoes themselves.
Nike.com

If you tell me:

your height and weight,

whether you're running or mostly walking,

your weekly mileage, and

where the pain is (front of knee, inside, outside, or behind the kneecap),

I can narrow it down to the two or three shoes most likely to work well for you.