Objective To compare the differences in kinematic parameters and plantar pressures for two types of knee varus with tibial and femoral origins in gait analysis, so as to provide biomechanical theoretical basis for different types of genu varus. Methods Twenty-six patients with unilateral knee osteoarthritis (KOA) varus genu were enrolled, with 13 from femoral and 13 from tibial sources. Using Noraxon MyoMotion three-dimensional (3D) motion capture system and Footscan plantar pressure test system, the gait of the subjects during natural walking was measured, the temporal and spatial parameters of the gait, the kinematics parameters of lower limb joints and plantar pressures were collected, to make comparative analysis between the two groups. Results The range of knee flexion and extension of tibial varus, the peak of hip abduction, the range of motion (ROM) of hip adduction and abduction and the peak of ankle pronation were larger than those of femoral lateral genu varus. The peak of knee flexion and hip adduction was smaller than that of femoral lateral genu varus. Compared with femoral varus, subjects with tibial varus had increased stress time and peak pressure on the plantar of the 4th and 5th metatarsals (P＜0.05). In the 3rd metatarsal region, the impulse of healthy femoral limb was greater than that of healthy limb with tibial deformity. While in the medial calcaneal region, the impulse of healthy femoral limb was smaller (P＜0.05). Conclusions There are some differences in kinematic parameters and plantar pressures between two different types of unilateral genu varus patients. The results of this study are helpful to understand the abnormal gait caused by genu varus, and provide reliable reference for postoperative rehabilitation and limb exercise for different types of genu varus.