When it comes to hiking with bad knees, finding the right pair of boots can make all the difference. With so many options on the market, it can be overwhelming to choose the best hiking boots for bad knees.
In this article, we’ll review the 5 best hiking boots for bad knees, and answer important questions like “Is hiking good or bad for knees?” and “Are boots good for your knees?” to help you make an informed decision.
5 Best Hiking Boots for Bad Knees
- KEEN Targhee III Waterproof Mid-Hiking Boot
- Salomon X Ultra 3 Mid GTX Hiking Boot
- Merrell Moab 2 Waterproof Hiking Boot
- Lowa Renegade GTX Mid-Hiking Boot
- Oboz Bridger B-DRY Hiking Boot
KEEN Targhee III Waterproof Mid-Hiking Boot
If you’re looking for a waterproof hiking boot that can keep your feet dry and comfortable, the KEEN Targhee III Waterproof Mid Hiking Boot is a perfect choice. The KEEN hiking boots are made with 100% fabric and imported.
The DRY waterproof breathable membrane lets vapor out while keeping water out. With a mid-calf shaft measuring approximately, this hiking boot also provides ankle support and balance on uneven surfaces, thanks to its external support shank and mid-cut height.
The KEEN ALL-TERRAIN rubber outsole provides excellent grip and traction in muddy environments and rocky surfaces, while the non-marking rubber outsoles leave no trace when walking indoors.
In terms of comfort, this hiking boot offers a mid-profile upper for a secure fit, a padded tongue, and collar for added cushioning, and a removable metatomical footbed design that provides excellent arch support and cradles the natural contours of the foot.
Additionally, the contoured heel offers next-level stability, making this hiking boot perfect for long walks on uneven terrain.
Pros:
- Waterproof
- Excellent grip
- Good ankle support
- Comfortable
- Stable
Cons:
- Limited color options
Salomon X Ultra 3 Mid GTX Hiking Boot
Whether you’re looking for a solid work shoe or hitting the trails, the Salomon X Ultra 3 Mid GTX Hiking Boot is a durable and waterproof mid-height hiking boot designed for women.
Made with 100% synthetic material and imported, this hiking boot features a rubber sole and mid-top shaft measuring approximately, making it perfect for technical hikes and tough descents.
The X Ultra 3 GORE-TEX mid-height hiking shoe is designed with Descent Control Technology, providing maximum traction on all terrains, even in wet conditions.
In terms of comfort, this hiking boot offers a Kinetic Fit ADVANCED removable contoured insole with reinforced heel cushioning for medium support, making it perfect for long hikes.
The molded nylon arch shank provides additional support, while the Merrell Air Cushion in the heel absorbs shock and adds stability. Additionally, the lightweight EVA foam midsole provides stability and comfort, making it perfect for trail running, hiking, backpacking, or mountaineering.
Pros:
- Durable
- Waterproof
- Maximum traction
- Comfortable
- Stable
Cons:
- Limited color options
Merrell Moab 2 Waterproof Hiking Boot
The Merrell Moab 2 Waterproof Hiking Boot is a versatile hiking boot made in the USA or imported, featuring a rubber sole and an ankle shaft measuring approximately.
Made with pigskin leather and mesh upper, 100% recycled laces and webbing, and a bellows tongue that keeps debris out, this hiking boot also features a protective toe cap and 100% recycled mesh lining, making it perfect for outdoor adventures.
In terms of comfort, this hiking boot offers a Kinetic Fit ADVANCED removable contoured insole with reinforced heel cushioning for medium support, making it perfect for long hikes.
The molded nylon arch shank provides additional support, while the Merrell Air Cushion in the heel absorbs shock and adds stability. Additionally, the lightweight EVA foam midsole provides stability and comfort, while the Vibram TC5+ rubber sole offers excellent traction on all terrains.
Pros:
- Versatile
- Comfortable
- Good traction
- Durable
- Protective
Cons:
- Limited color options
Lowa Renegade GTX Mid-Hiking Boot
When it comes to finding the perfect pair of hiking boots for bad knees, the Lowa Renegade GTX Mid Hiking Boot is a top contender. With durable yet breathable nubuck and Cordura upper, these boots provide comfort and support for even the toughest hiking trails.
The Gore-Tex interior membrane ensures that your feet stay dry and cool, while the removable, textile-lined insole with a slow-reacting foam layer provides added cushioning and support.
The integrated PU midsole delivers outstanding shock absorption, and the Vibram Evo outsole provides excellent traction on difficult terrain.
Pros:
- Durable and breathable upper
- Waterproof and climate-controlled interior
- Removable cushioned insole for added comfort
- Shock absorbing midsole
- Excellent traction on difficult terrain
Cons:
- Higher price point compared to other hiking boots
- May not be suitable for those with wider feet
Oboz Bridger B-DRY Hiking Boot
Another excellent option for those in need of hiking boots for bad knees is the Oboz Bridger B-DRY Hiking Boot.
With a full leather upper, these boots are designed for durability and protection on the toughest trails. The molded rubber toe cap protects your toes from trail debris, while the heel counter helps maintain a snug, comfortable fit over time.
The Granite Peak midsole offers cushioning and stability without inhibiting flexibility, while the Granite Peak outsole provides support and protection on any terrain.
The B-DRY waterproofing system lets sweat escape while keeping moisture out, making these boots a top choice for any hiker.
Pros:
- Durable full leather upper
- Molded rubber toe cap for added protection
- Comfortable heel hold over time
- Cushioned midsole for added comfort and stability
- Supportive outsole for any terrain
- Waterproof and breathable
Cons:
- May not fit well for those with wider feet
- May require a break-in period before comfortable for longer hikes
Is Hiking Good or Bad for Knees?
Hiking is a great way to stay active and enjoy the great outdoors, but many people with knee pain wonder if it’s safe for them. The answer is that it depends.
For people with knee osteoarthritis, hiking can actually help improve joint pain and function. However, if you have a knee injury or severe knee arthritis, hiking may worsen your symptoms. It’s important to consult with your doctor before beginning any new exercise routine.
Benefits of Hiking for Knee Health
Hiking can provide numerous benefits for knee health, including increased strength and flexibility. Studies have shown that hiking can also improve joint pain and function in people with knee osteoarthritis.
Additionally, hiking can help with weight management, which can reduce the load on your knees and improve overall knee health.
Risks of Hiking for Knee Health
While hiking can be beneficial for knee health, it’s important to be aware of the risks. Hiking on uneven terrain can increase the risk of falls and knee injuries.
Additionally, hiking for long periods of time or on steep inclines can put extra stress on your knees, which can worsen symptoms for people with knee arthritis.
Are Boots Good for Your Knees?
Choosing the right pair of hiking boots is essential for maintaining knee health while hiking. The right pair of boots can provide support, stability, and shock absorption, which can help reduce knee pain and prevent knee injuries.
Choosing the Right Hiking Boots for Knee Health
When choosing hiking boots for knee health, look for boots with good arch support, a sturdy sole, and shock-absorbing features. Additionally, boots with a wide toe box can help prevent toe injuries, which can affect your gait and increase knee pain.
Importance of Proper Fit
Proper fit is essential when it comes to hiking boots and knee health. Boots that are too tight or too loose can affect your gait and increase the risk of knee injuries. Make sure to try on hiking boots with the socks you plan to wear on your hike and walk around in them to ensure a proper fit.
You can read our guide on the Best hiking boots for bunions
Can Boots Affect Your Knees?
The type of boots you wear can affect your knee health while hiking. Worn-out or improperly fitting boots can increase the risk of knee injuries and exacerbate knee pain.
Signs of Worn-Out Boots
Worn-out boots can affect knee health by reducing support and cushioning. Signs of worn-out boots include worn-down soles, holes in the toe box, and tears in the lining.
Proper Boot Maintenance
Proper boot maintenance is essential for maintaining knee health while hiking. Make sure to clean and dry your boots after each hike, and store them in a cool, dry place.
Additionally, replacing your boots every 300-500 miles can help ensure proper support and cushioning.
Conclusion
In conclusion, hiking can be a great way to stay active and improve knee health, but it’s important to choose the right pair of hiking boots.
When looking for hiking boots for bad knees, look for boots with adequate cushioning, support, and stability features. Each of the boots mentioned above offers unique features to provide the necessary support and comfort needed for bad knees.
When it comes to knee health, it’s important to take precautions and make informed decisions about the gear you use.
Whether you’re an experienced hiker or just starting out, investing in a good pair of hiking boots can make all the difference. With the right pair of boots, you can enjoy the beauty of nature without worrying about knee pain or discomfort.
Tyler Looney is an avid hiking enthusiast and the author of HikingBootsPros.com, a website dedicated to providing helpful insights and advice on choosing the best hiking boots. His expertise and passion for hiking have made him a valuable resource for both beginner and experienced hikers alike.