Knee pain is basically a right of passage if you have an active lifestyle. According to the American Academy of Family Physicians, it affects approximately 25% of adults and its prevalence has increased by almost 65% over the past 20 years. But being a common disease doesn’t make it any less disruptive, especially if you’re trying to stay fit. Fortunately, supportive shoes can make a big difference in helping you reach your goals pain-free.
Brands like Saucony, which are approved by the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA), are a good place to start. Take the Saucony Guide 14s, for example. Along with a breathable mesh exterior, these trainers feature a contoured footbed that aligns the heel, preventing overpronation that irritates sensitive knees. Additionally, the soles include layers of lightweight, shock-absorbing cushioning that returns energy with every step, giving runners extra bounce. Best of all, they’re nearly 30% off in Nordstrom Rack’s massive clearance sale, and shoppers say they’re worth it. (Pssst: Lululemon’s new cross-training sneakers are designed for all types of training.)
Buy it: Saucony Guide 14, from $71 (was $130), nordstromrack.com
“Whenever my feet and knees start to hurt, I know it’s time to put on my Sauconys,” wrote one reviewer, adding that they “always come back” to this particular pair. Another buyer who wore the Guides for seven years said they “felt like heaven” and helped them run 22km a week, “injury-free”. A third even compared them to “walking on air”. (BTW: Jennifer Garner wears this supportive pair from the same podiatrist-approved brand.)
If you want to save some money and still give your knees the support they need, head over to Nordstrom Rack to pick up a pair of Guide 14s while they’re still in stock in all sizes. While you’re at it, check out the discounts on shoppers’ most popular running shoes, like the ones below:
Buy it: Sorel Kinetic Rnegd Mesh Sneaker, $67, was $110, nordstromrack.com
Buy it: Adidas Questar Sneaker, from $44 (was $75), nordstromrack.com
Buy it: Puma Softride Finesse, $38 (was $65), nordstromrack.com