8 Best Running Shoes for Hip Pain 2026

Step into cloud-like comfort with the Skechers Women’s Max Cushioning Endeavour Canova—a breath of fresh air for runners battling hip pain. The Air-Cooled Goga Mat insole and Ultra Light midsole team up to deliver plush, responsive cushioning that absorbs impact before it reaches your joints, making each step feel lighter. With Natural Rocker Technology, this shoe encourages smooth heel-to-toe transitions, reducing strain on the hips by promoting a more natural gait—exactly what sore joints need.

In real-world testing, the Canova shines during low- to moderate-impact activities like walking, light jogging, or standing for hours. Its engineered mesh upper keeps feet cool, while the flexible traction outsole handles sidewalks and treadmills with ease. However, serious runners logging high mileage may find the support lacking—there’s no structured arch or motion control to guide overpronation, which can indirectly affect hip alignment. It’s best suited for casual movement, not speedwork or trail runs.

Compared to the Brooks Adrenaline GTS 24, the Canova trades advanced stability for effortless comfort and affordability. While it doesn’t offer the same biomechanical support, it’s a standout for budget-conscious users who want reliable cushioning without breaking the bank. If you’re seeking a low-cost, low-impact companion that eases hip discomfort during daily wear, this Skecher delivers where it counts—soft landings and smooth rolls forward.

The JACKSHIBO Wide Toe Box Shoes are a game-changer for natural gait restoration, especially for runners plagued by hip pain from restricted foot mechanics. The zero-drop platform and 20% wider forefoot allow toes to splay naturally, reducing pressure on the hips by aligning the kinetic chain from the ground up. With a 1.57-inch thick foam midsole and Roller Propulsion Tech, these shoes absorb joint stress while actively returning energy—making every stride feel light and fluid, even after hours on your feet.

During extended wear tests—think 5K walks, gym circuits, or full-day standing—the JACKSHIBO excelled in comfort and joint protection. The 15° toe rocker eased toe-off, significantly reducing knee and hip strain, while the 3D arch support provided targeted relief for both flat feet and high arches. On uneven terrain, however, the outsole showed slight limitations in grip, and the thick sole can feel bulky during quick lateral moves. Still, for forward-motion activities, it’s a powerhouse of biomechanical support.

When stacked against the Brooks Glycerin 22, the JACKSHIBO offers a more anatomically driven design at a fraction of the cost. While it lacks the premium finish and brand refinement of Brooks, it outperforms in toe box space and gait alignment—key factors for long-term hip health. Ideal for overpronators, plantar fasciitis sufferers, or barefoot shoe converts, this model bridges orthopedic needs with athletic versatility. It’s not the slickest runner, but for natural stride optimization, it’s unmatched in value.

The Brooks Women’s Ghost 17 is a masterclass in balanced performance, engineered for runners who demand consistent comfort without compromising on form. With 1mm more DNA LOFT v3 cushioning in the heel and 3mm in the forefoot, this update delivers an even softer ride that buffers hip joints from repetitive impact—a critical win for those managing discomfort. The double jacquard air mesh upper hugs the foot like a glove, offering breathability and adaptive support, while flex grooves in the midsole ensure smooth, natural transitions mile after mile.

Put to the test on pavement, treadmills, and light trails, the Ghost 17 proved its mettle as a true daily trainer. The nitrogen-infused midsole maintains its spring over long distances, and the recycled rubber outsole provides reliable traction without adding weight. It handles tempo runs and recovery jogs with equal grace, though it doesn’t offer the same level of guided stability as the Adrenaline GTS 24—meaning overpronators may still experience hip strain without additional support.

Next to the Skechers Canova, the Ghost 17 is in a different league: more refined, more durable, and built for serious mileage. While it lacks motion control, its neutral design suits runners with healthy biomechanics seeking a smooth, protective ride. For those logging 30+ miles a week and prioritizing long-term joint comfort, the Ghost 17 is a gold standard. It doesn’t scream for attention, but it delivers where it matters—mile after predictable, pain-free mile.

Sink into luxurious softness with the Brooks Men’s Glycerin 22—a shoe engineered for runners who want every step to feel like a reset for their hips. The DNA Tuned cushioning uses larger midsole cells in the heel for pillowy landings and smaller cells in the forefoot for a responsive push-off, creating a ride that’s both plush and propulsive. The broad platform and stable transitions minimize lateral wobble, reducing unnecessary hip joint movement—crucial for those managing pain from instability or overuse.

In real-world runs from 5Ks to half-marathons, the Glycerin 22 proved its worth as a high-mileage comfort beast. The double jacquard knit upper stretches with your foot, eliminating pressure points, while the nitrogen-infused foam retains bounce even after 100+ miles. It’s not the lightest shoe on the market, and the softness can feel a bit sluggish during speed intervals. But for steady, long-distance runs where joint protection is priority one, it’s hard to beat.

Compared to the Ghost 17, the Glycerin 22 is softer, deeper, and more indulgent—a luxury sedan versus a sport sedan. While it lacks the Guiderails support of the Adrenaline GTS 24, it outshines in pure cushioning, making it ideal for neutral runners with hip or knee sensitivity. If your goal is to maximize comfort without sacrificing forward momentum, this shoe hits the sweet spot between cloud-like landings and reliable performance.

The Brooks Women’s Glycerin 22 is engineered indulgence for runners who refuse to compromise on cushioning—especially when hip pain is in the equation. With dual-cell DNA Tuned midsole technology, it delivers cloud-like heel landings and snappy forefoot responsiveness, creating a ride that absorbs shock before it travels up to the hips. The broad, stable base keeps your foot centered, minimizing wobble and reducing strain on joint alignment—perfect for long, fatiguing runs where form tends to slip.

Tested over pavement and asphalt, the Glycerin 22 proved exceptional at smoothing out harsh impacts without feeling mushy. The flexible yet supportive knit upper adapts to foot swelling, and the tuned midsole transitions seamlessly from heel to toe. However, its plushness comes at a cost: it’s not built for tempo runs or racing, and the lack of motion control means it’s not ideal for overpronators. Still, for steady-state runs and recovery days, it’s a top-tier choice.

Next to the JACKSHIBO wide toe box model, the Glycerin 22 offers more refined engineering and brand reliability, though less toe splay. Against the Ghost 17, it’s softer and more protective, making it the go-to when joint comfort trumps speed. For neutral runners seeking maximum cushioning with daily durability, this shoe is a benchmark. It doesn’t fix gait issues, but it shields your hips like few others can.

When hip pain stems from poor alignment or overpronation, the Brooks Women’s Adrenaline GTS 24 steps in as a biomechanical guardian. Its Guiderails Holistic Support System doesn’t just correct motion—it prevents excessive hip rotation by stabilizing the pelvis from the ground up. Paired with nitrogen-infused DNA Loft v3 cushioning, it delivers plush comfort without sacrificing structure, making it a rare hybrid: supportive yet springy, firm yet forgiving.

In real-world runs, especially on long pavement stretches, the Adrenaline GTS 24 excelled at reducing fatigue and joint strain. The engineered air mesh upper kept feet cool, while the redesigned outsole ensured smooth, stable transitions. Unlike softer shoes that let the foot collapse, this one actively guides your stride, which is crucial for runners with hip or knee issues linked to poor foot mechanics. It’s slightly heavier than the Ghost 17, but the trade-off is worth it for the stability gains.

Compared to the Skechers Canova, the Adrenaline GTS 24 is in a completely different performance tier—more technical, more protective, and purpose-built for runners with alignment issues. While the JACKSHIBO focuses on natural gait, this Brooks model corrects dysfunctional motion. For overpronators or those recovering from injury, it’s the best defense against hip pain. It’s not the softest, but it’s the smartest support system on the list.

The Under Armour Women’s Charged Assert 9 is a no-nonsense workhorse that punches above its weight, especially for wide-footed runners seeking affordable relief from hip discomfort. The wide toe box gives toes room to spread, improving balance and reducing pressure on the hips, while the Charged Cushioning midsole delivers a responsive, durable ride that handles daily miles without flattening out. With a solid rubber outsole in high-impact zones, it’s built to last—perfect for walkers, gym-goers, or entry-level runners.

In testing, the Assert 9 held up well on treadmills and sidewalks, offering solid step-in comfort thanks to its EVA sockliner and breathable mesh upper. However, the cushioning is firm compared to plush models like the Glycerin 22, and it lacks any real motion control—meaning it won’t correct overpronation that could aggravate hip pain. It’s best for neutral or supinated runners who need a reliable, wide-fitting shoe without overspending.

Next to the Brooks Adrenaline GTS 24, the Assert 9 is lighter on features and support, but it wins on value and width availability. While it doesn’t offer biomechanical correction, it provides a stable, roomy base that prevents pinching and crowding—key for comfort. For budget-conscious runners with wide feet, it’s a smart entry point. It may not heal your hips, but it won’t make them worse—and that’s a win at this price.

The Brooks Men’s Adrenaline GTS 24 earns its title as Best Overall by mastering the balance between support, comfort, and durability—a trifecta that directly combats hip pain from misalignment. Its Guiderails system acts like guardrails for your gait, preventing excessive inward roll that torques the hips and knees. With nitrogen-infused DNA Loft v3 foam, it cushions impacts luxuriously while remaining light enough for daily training—making it a true do-it-all shoe for runners with biomechanical concerns.

On roads and treadmills, the GTS 24 delivered consistent, fatigue-reducing performance. The engineered air mesh upper stayed breathable during long runs, and the redesigned midsole and outsole ensured smooth, stable transitions. It’s not as soft as the Glycerin 22, nor as nimble as the Ghost 17, but it excels where it matters most: injury prevention. Runners with overpronation or past hip issues will feel the difference in reduced strain.

Against the Women’s GTS 24, it’s identical in tech and performance—just sized for men. Compared to the Skechers Canova, it’s more technical, more protective, and built for serious runners. While pricier, it offers long-term joint protection that cheaper shoes can’t match. For runners who need support without sacrificing comfort, this is the gold standard. It’s not flashy, but it’s the most reliable ally against hip pain.