If you walk for your health, the last thing you want is for your treadmill to hurt your joints. You need a machine that feels soft underfoot, stable, and quiet. But with so many choices, finding the right one is hard. This guide is the answer.

We found and tested the best treadmills for walking with a focus on cushioning. We looked at big names and small pads to see which ones truly protect your knees and ankles. We tested five top models in our space to see how they perform in a real home.

Our testing shows that the best treadmill for you balances great cushioning with your budget and space. We will look at the Horizon Fitness 7.4 AT, the NordicTrack Commercial Series, the ProForm Pro, the Joxir Walking Pad, and the Lichico Walking Pad. Let us find your perfect match.

How We Tested for Comfort and Support

We believe you should know how we get our results. Our testing is built on a simple idea: we measure what matters for a comfortable walk. We did not just listen to what the brands said. We set up each treadmill the same way and used them as you would. We walked on them for long periods. We checked how they felt at different speeds. We listened to the sounds they made. Here is the exact plan we followed for every test.

We built a matrix to judge each treadmill fairly. This means we looked at the same things for every machine. We scored them on impact absorption, stability, noise, features for walkers, and signs they will last a long time. The table below shows you what we looked for and why it is important.

What We Tested	How We Measured It	Why It Matters for You
Impact Absorption	We felt the shock in our feet and knees. We also listened to the sound of footfalls on the deck.	Less impact means less stress on your ankles, knees, and hips.
Stability	We checked for deck shake and frame wobble when walking and at higher speeds.	A stable frame makes you feel safe and helps you keep a natural stride.
Noise Level	We recorded the sound level in a quiet room during use.	A quiet treadmill is better for homes and apartments.
Walker Features	We tested the speed and incline range, handrails, and how easy the screen is to use.	This tells us if the treadmill is really made for walking.
Build Quality	We looked at the motor power, weight capacity, and warranty details.	Good build quality means your cushioning will last for years.

Understanding Treadmill Cushioning for Joint Health

Before we look at the models, it helps to know how cushioning works. A good treadmill does not just have a soft deck. It has a system designed to take the hit so your body does not have to.

How Does Cushioning Protect Your Knees?

Think of it like the sole of a good running shoe. When your foot hits the belt, the force travels up your leg. A cushioning system absorbs a part of that force. It slows down the shock before it reaches your joints. Without this, your ankles, knees, and hips take the full impact with every single step. Over a long walk, this can lead to pain and soreness. A well-cushioned treadmill makes your walk feel smoother and less punishing.

The Balance Between Soft and Stable

There is a key point many people miss. A treadmill can be too soft. If it feels like you are walking on a mattress, it can be unstable. Your foot sinks in and your leg muscles have to work harder to push off. This can be tiring and even unsafe. The best cushioning finds a middle ground. It is soft enough to absorb shock but firm enough to give you a stable, solid platform to walk on. We paid close attention to this balance in our tests.

Five Things to Look for in a Walking Treadmill

Based on our testing, here are the five most important things to check before you buy a treadmill for walking.

1. The Cushioning System Type. Look for brand names like “ProShox” or “3-Zone Cushioning.” These are engineered systems. They are almost always better than a simple padded deck.
2. Deck Size. A longer and wider deck lets you take a natural stride without shortening your steps. A short deck can feel cramped and force you to change how you walk.
3. Speed and Incline. Even for walking, you want some room to grow. A top speed of at least 4 to 5 miles per hour is good for power walking. Incline makes your walks harder and helps you burn more calories.
4. Weight and Sturdiness. A heavier treadmill often means a more stable frame. Check the user weight capacity. A higher capacity usually points to a stronger build.
5. Noise Output. If you live with others or have neighbors below, a quiet motor and a quiet deck are very important.

Treadmill Reviews: Tested for Comfort and Performance

Now, let’s get into the details of each treadmill we tested. We set each one up, walked on it for hours, and pushed it to its limits to see how it holds up.

Number 1: Horizon Fitness 7.4 AT Studio Series – The Best Overall for Cushioning

The Horizon Fitness 7.4 AT is a standout machine. From the moment you step on it, the quality is clear. It feels solid and the cushioning is immediately noticeable. It is built for performance but designed for comfort, making it our top pick for most walkers.

• Cushioning System: 3-Zone Variable Response Cushioning
• Running Area: 22 inches wide by 60 inches long
• Max Speed: 12 miles per hour
• Max Incline: 15 percent
• User Weight Limit: 350 pounds
• Key Feature: No workout subscription required

Testing the 3-Zone Cushioning System

This is the star of the show. Horizon calls this “3-Zone Variable Response Cushioning.” We found out what that means in practice. The deck is designed to feel different under your heel, the middle of your foot, and your forefoot. Our tests showed it is softer where your foot lands (the heel) and firmer where you push off (the forefoot). This is not just a simple soft pad. It is a smart system that helps guide your foot through a natural walking motion. The feeling is both supportive and soft. It absorbs shock very well without feeling bouncy or unstable. After a long walk, our knees and ankles felt much better than on a basic treadmill.

How Stable is the Frame at Full Incline?

With a powerful 15 percent incline, we had to test the stability. We walked at a steep incline and at a faster walking pace. The frame is very solid. We noticed almost no side-to-side wobble. The handrails are also sturdy and well-placed. The machine feels like it is built into the floor. This gives you great confidence, especially when you are not holding on. The high user weight limit of 350 pounds points to a strong internal build.

The Value of No Monthly Subscription

This is a huge advantage over some other smart treadmills. The Horizon 7.4 AT has Bluetooth to connect your own tablet or phone. You can stream your own shows or fitness apps. You do not need to pay a monthly fee to use the basic functions of the treadmill. This saves you a lot of money over time. If you already have a favorite app or just want to watch Netflix, this treadmill gives you that freedom.

What We Liked and What We Did Not

What We Liked:

• The 3-zone cushioning is among the best we have tested.
• The frame is extremely stable, even at high inclines.
• No mandatory subscription fee saves money.
• The 350-pound weight capacity is higher than most.

What We Did Not Like:

• The console screen is smaller and less flashy than some competitors.
• It is a very heavy machine, which makes it hard to move.

Number 2: NordicTrack Commercial Series – Best for Immersive Guided Workouts

The NordicTrack Commercial Series is a beast of a machine. It has a huge screen and a powerful motor. It is designed to take you on virtual walks around the world. But this experience comes with a big condition: you need to pay for an iFIT membership to get the most from it.

• Cushioning System: Commercial Flex Cushioning
• Running Area: 36 inches wide by 80 inches long
• Max Speed: 12 miles per hour
• Incline/Decline: +12% to -3%
• Key Feature: 16-inch pivoting touchscreen, iFIT auto-adjust

Evaluating the Commercial Flex Cushioning

NordicTrack talks about its “Commercial Flex Cushioning.” We found it to be very good. It has a plush, comfortable feel. The deck is long and wide, giving you plenty of space to walk without feeling confined. The cushioning is soft and does a great job of reducing impact. It feels a bit plusher than the Horizon, but still maintains good stability. For long, scenic walks where you are focused on the screen, the cushioning provides a comfortable and distracting-free experience. It is easy on the joints for extended periods.

How Well Does the iFIT Auto-Adjust Work?

We tested the famous SmartAdjust feature. This is where the iFIT trainer on the screen automatically changes your speed and incline for you. We tried a walking workout in the mountains. When the trainer started going uphill, our treadmill incline increased without us touching a button. It is a very cool feature that makes the workout feel effortless and engaging. You just follow along. However, this only works if you are using an iFIT workout. For manual walking, it is just a regular treadmill.

Is the iFIT Membership a Good Value for Walkers?

This is the big question. The iFIT membership costs extra every month. To use the auto-adjust and the trainer-led workouts, you must pay for it. We looked at the iFIT library for walkers. It is massive. There are thousands of walking workouts, from simple walks in parks to intense hill hikes. If you love the idea of being guided and seeing new places every day, then the membership fee might be worth it for you. But if you prefer to walk on your own and watch your own shows, the fee becomes an unnecessary cost. The treadmill’s large screen is also great for streaming other apps, but you still need the membership for the auto-adjust features.

What We Liked and What We Did Not

What We Liked:

• The large, pivoting screen is great for workouts and streaming.
• The auto-adjust feature is fun and makes workouts easy to follow.
• The decline feature is unique and great for training.
• Cushioning is very plush and comfortable.

What We Did Not Like:

• The iFIT membership is required for the best features and is an ongoing cost.
• The machine is very large and takes up a lot of space.
• It is one of the most expensive models we tested.

Number 3: ProForm Pro Treadmills – Best Folding Treadmill with Smart Features

The ProForm Pro is a direct competitor to the NordicTrack, often at a lower price. It has a strong focus on its smart features and a clever folding design. It promises a good blend of technology and space-saving, so we put its cushioning to the test.

• Cushioning System: ProShox Cushioning
• Running Area: Based on dimensions, similar to a full-size treadmill
• Max Speed: 12 miles per hour
• Max Incline: 12 percent
• Key Feature: SpaceSaver folding design, 10-inch touchscreen

Comparing ProShox Cushioning to the Others

ProForm uses its own ProShox Cushioning system. We found it to be a capable and comfortable system. When compared directly to the Horizon and NordicTrack, it feels a bit different. It is not as plush as the NordicTrack, nor as strategically zoned as the Horizon. Instead, it offers a balanced, all-around soft feel. It does a very good job of taking the hard impact out of each step. For the average walker, it provides more than enough comfort and joint protection. It is a clear step above the basic cushioning on a low-cost treadmill.

How Good is the SpaceSaver Folding Design?

This is a key feature for people with limited room. We tested the folding mechanism repeatedly. The process is simple: you lift the deck until it locks vertically. The wheels on the front make it possible to roll the treadmill to a storage spot. It works as advertised. However, there is a trade-off. While it saves space, the machine is still quite heavy. Moving it is not effortless. Also, when unfolded and in use, we found it to be stable, but it had a tiny bit more frame flex than the non-folding Horizon. For most walking, it is perfectly stable, but it does not feel quite as rock-solid as our top pick.

The Smart Features and iFIT Requirement

Like the NordicTrack, the ProForm is powered by iFIT. The 10-inch screen gives you access to all the same trainer-led workouts and global scenery. The same rule applies: you need a Pro subscription to unlock these features and the automatic speed and incline control. The value calculation is the same. If you want iFIT, this treadmill is a great vehicle for it. If you do not, you are paying for a screen and features you will not fully use.

What We Liked and What We Did Not

What We Liked:

• The ProShox cushioning is very good for joint comfort.
• The folding design truly helps save space in a room.
• It is often more affordable than the NordicTrack model.

What We Did Not Like:

• Requires an iFIT subscription for the smart features.
• Does not feel quite as sturdy as the Horizon.
• The cushioning, while good, is not the best in its class.

Number 4: Joxir Walking Pad Treadmill with Incline – Best for a Compact, Active Walk

The Joxir is a different type of machine. It is a “walking pad,” meaning it is low to the ground and designed for walking, often under a desk. The Joxir stands out because it includes an incline, which is rare for this category.

• Cushioning System: 6 Silicone Shock Absorbers
• Running Area: 38 inches long by 15 inches wide
• Max Speed: 7.5 miles per hour
• Max Incline: 8 degrees
• Key Feature: Adjustable incline, remote control

Testing Shock Absorption on a Short Deck

The Joxir uses six silicone pads under the deck for cushioning. We tested this system at different speeds. For a slow, under-desk walk, it provides a noticeable dampening effect. It is not as sophisticated as the systems on the full-size treadmills, but it is effective for its size. However, the short and narrow deck is a limitation. If you have a long stride, you might feel constrained. The cushioning works best for a casual or steady walking pace. When we increased the speed to a jog, the shorter deck felt less secure and the cushioning felt less effective.

How Stable is it at its Top Speed?

We were curious if this lightweight pad could handle its maximum speed of 7.5 miles per hour, which is a very fast walk or a slow jog. We tested it, and the answer is mixed. The motor is surprisingly powerful, but the lightweight and compact design has limits. At higher speeds, especially on an incline, the entire unit can vibrate and move slightly. It is not unsafe, but it does not inspire the same confidence as a full-size treadmill. It is best used for walking and light jogging, not for sustained running.

The Value of an Incline on a Small Machine

The incline feature is a huge plus. It is manual, meaning you adjust it by lifting the deck by hand, but it works. Being able to add an incline to your walk in such a small machine is a great way to increase the workout intensity. This makes the Joxir much more versatile than other walking pads that are completely flat.

What We Liked and What We Did Not

What We Liked:

• The inclusion of an incline is a major advantage.
• It is relatively compact and portable.
• The shock absorbers work well for walking paces.

What We Did Not Like:

• The deck is short and can feel cramped.
• It can feel less stable at its highest speeds.
• The build quality is good but not as premium as the larger treadmills.

Number 5: Lichico Walking Pad – The Simple and Quiet Choice

The Lichico is the most basic model we tested. It is a no-frills walking pad designed for one thing: quiet walking at a low intensity. It has no incline and a lower top speed, making it a pure tool for light activity.

• Cushioning System: Suspended deck and TPR cushioning pad
• Running Area: 47.2 inches long by 20 inches wide
• Max Speed: 4 miles per hour
• Key Feature: Super quiet, ultra-lightweight

Measuring the “Whisper-Quiet” Claim

Lichico promotes “whisper-quiet operation,” and our tests confirm this is mostly true. The brushless motor is very quiet. The sound of your feet on the deck is louder than the motor itself. This is its biggest strength. If you want to walk while watching TV or while others are in the room, this treadmill will not disturb them. It is ideal for apartments or offices where noise is a major concern.

How Much Cushioning Does the Suspended Deck Provide?

The cushioning comes from a suspended deck and a TPR pad. In practice, this feels like a firm but forgiving surface. It is not as soft as the ProShox or 3-Zone systems, but it is far better than walking on a hard floor. It takes the edge off each step. For slow, steady walking, it provides adequate comfort. However, if you have sensitive joints or plan to walk for more than thirty minutes at a time, you may start to feel the firmness.

Portability and Space Saving

This is where the Lichico shines. It is light and has wheels on the front, so you can easily tilt it and move it. It is thin enough to slide under a sofa or a bed. If your space is extremely limited and your walking goals are modest, the Lichico is a practical solution. It is the easiest treadmill we tested to move and store.

What We Liked and What We Did Not

What We Liked:

• It is exceptionally quiet during operation.
• Very lightweight and easy to move and store.
• The price is the most accessible of all the models we tested.

What We Did Not Like:

• The cushioning is firm and may not be enough for some users.
• No incline option limits workout variety.
• The low maximum speed is only suitable for walking.

Head to Head: Which Treadmill Cushioning is Best?

Now that we have looked at each model alone, let us put them side by side. This comparison makes the differences and best uses very clear.

Treadmill Comparison Table

Treadmill Model	Cushioning System	Best For This Person
Horizon 7.4 AT	3-Zone Variable Response	The walker who wants the best cushioning and no monthly fees.
NordicTrack Commercial	Commercial Flex Cushioning	The walker who wants immersive, trainer-led workouts.
ProForm Pro	ProShox Cushioning	The walker who wants smart features and a space-saving fold.
Joxir Walking Pad	6 Silicone Shock Absorbers	The walker with limited space who still wants an incline.
Lichico Walking Pad	Suspended Deck & TPR Pad	The budget-focused walker who needs a quiet, simple machine.

Horizon Fitness vs. NordicTrack: The Cushioning Showdown

This is a battle of the two best cushioning systems. Which one is better? The answer depends on what you value.

The Horizon Fitness 7.4 AT has the more advanced cushioning technology. The 3-zone system is engineered to work with your gait. It feels both soft and supportive, and it is the best at reducing fatigue in our tests. It also wins on value because it does not require a subscription.

The NordicTrack Commercial Series has a plusher, more luxurious feel. It is like walking on a cloud. It is incredibly comfortable. However, you only get the full experience, including the automatic adjustments, if you pay the monthly iFIT fee.

The Verdict: For pure, technical joint protection and long-term value, the Horizon is the winner. For the most immersive and luxurious walking experience, the NordicTrack is fantastic, but be ready for the ongoing cost.

Finding the Best Treadmill for Your Situation

Your perfect treadmill depends on your life. Here is a simple guide to match you with the right machine.

If you have bad knees and want the softest landing:
Choose the Horizon Fitness 7.4 AT. Its 3-zone cushioning is scientifically designed to protect your joints better than any other model we tested.

If you want to walk while you work at a desk:
Choose the Lichico Walking Pad for basic, quiet walking. If you want more intensity, the Joxir Walking Pad with incline is the better choice.

If you get bored and need entertainment and coaching:
Choose the NordicTrack Commercial Series. The large screen and iFIT workouts are designed to keep you engaged and motivated.

If you want a smart treadmill but hate monthly fees:
Choose the Horizon Fitness 7.4 AT. It lets you connect your own device and use your own apps without a subscription.

Answers to Common Questions

Does treadmill cushioning really prevent knee pain?

Yes, it can significantly help. A good cushioning system absorbs force that would otherwise travel up your legs to your knees. In our tests, models like the Horizon and NordicTrack made a noticeable difference in how our joints felt after a long walk compared to a hard surface.

Can I add extra cushioning to my treadmill?

You can buy aftermarket mats to place under your treadmill, but these are mainly for protecting your floor. You cannot effectively add cushioning to the deck itself. The built-in system is what matters most for your joints.

What is more important, good shoes or a cushioned treadmill?

Both are important. They work together. Good shoes are your first line of defense. A cushioned treadmill is the second, larger layer of protection. For the best joint health, you should have both.

How long does the cushioning last?

This depends on build quality and use. The cushioning in high-end models like the Horizon and NordicTrack is designed to last for years. The warranties on these machines are long, which shows the brands have confidence in their durability. The cushioning in walking pads may wear out faster with heavy use.

Are folding treadmills as stable as non-folding ones?

Not always. The folding mechanism can sometimes introduce a very small amount of flex. The ProForm Pro is stable for walking, but in our direct test, the non-folding Horizon Fitness felt more solid and unshakable.

Our Final Choice for the Best Cushioned Treadmill

After testing all five treadmills for their cushioning, features, and value, one model stands out as the best for most walkers. Our top pick is the Horizon Fitness 7.4 AT Studio Series Smart Treadmill.

It wins for one main reason: it offers the most advanced and effective cushioning system without forcing you into a monthly subscription. The 3-zone cushioning is not just marketing; it is a tangible feature that makes walking more comfortable and less taxing on your body. The machine is built to last, with a strong frame and a high weight capacity. It provides a premium, comfortable walking experience and then gives you the freedom to use it as you wish, without ongoing costs. For anyone who walks for health and wants to protect their joints for the long run, the Horizon Fitness 7.4 AT is the clear and tested choice.