Choose shoes with extra ankle support if you have weak ankles or suffer from ankle pain. We consulted two orthopedic surgeons to find the best ankle support shoes. Researchers tested over 130 shoes for motion control, arch support, and traction to ensure stability.
We tested shoes for support and flexibility, avoiding bulky designs. Experts thoroughly evaluated each shoe’s fit, comfort, responsiveness, stability, cushioning, and value, assigning scores based on these critical characteristics. A physical therapist and athletic trainer reviewed the article for accuracy.
How to make stronger weak ankles
Our running coach recommends supportive shoes and ankle-strengthening exercises to prevent pain and injury. To strengthen your ankles, balance on one foot for 30-60 seconds. Before engaging in any activity, you should always consider performing ankle warmup exercises.
Ankle Support Shoe Certification by Numbers
- More than 130 pairs of footwear were evaluated.
- 10 best ankle support shoes
- 16+ weeks of training
- Fit, ease, responsiveness, stability, cushioning, and value are evaluated from 1 to 5 (5 is the highest)
- Three experts were interviewed
Our Best Picks
Best Women’s Overall:
On Cloudswift 3 at Amazon $169
Brooks Adrenaline GTS 22 at Amazon
Saucony Integrity Walker 3 at Amazon $90
Asics Gel-Venture 8 at Amazon $68
Hoka Clifton 9 at Amazon $215 $181
New Balance 990v5 at Amazon $300
Brooks Women’s Glycerin GTS 20 at Amazon $190
Nike Women’s Pegasus Trail 4 GORE-TEX at Nordstrom $160
Hoka Women’s Bondi 8 at Zappos $165
1. Best Women’s Overall
On Cloud Swift 3
Pros
Very responsive
Sleek, lightweight upper
Comfortable, supportive sock-like design
Cons
Not available in narrow or wide sizes
Plush cushioning may take some getting used to
Key Specifications
Weight: 8.9 ounces | Material: Reusable polyester, a foam midsole, rubber outsole | The cushioning: Moderate | Lace-up closure | Drop: 5 millimeters | Our overall rating: 4.1/5
Who They Do For
Ideal for women who require a solid, comfortable shoe for running, walking, and daily use.
Why We Adore Them
On’s Cloud Swift 3 provides great support and comfort in an adaptable design that is appropriate for all exercise kinds. During testing, we noticed right away that this shoe provides extra protection for unstable ankles. The tongue and collar are designed to hug the ankle for a secure, supportive fit, similar to a sock. Our feet and ankles remained securely in place across a variety of terrains.
We were particularly impressed by the shoe’s responsive cushioning, which drove us ahead while offering good impact protection. The rubber outsole also provides sticky traction, even in wet or slick situations. The updated upper provides support, comfort, and a sleek, modern look for any occasion.
Possible Flaws
- The shoe does not come in wide sizes, making it more difficult to get a bespoke fit. Nonetheless, we judged the toe box to be adequate for wide-footed folks.
- If you’re used to narrow shoes, adjusting to the thick, wide sole might be challenging.
Pros
Motion control
APMA-approved
Breathable
Cons
May feel a little stiff at first
Low heel cup
Key Specifications
The weight is 10.2 ounces | Material: partly recycled mesh upper, foam midsole, and rubber outsole | Cushioning: Moderate | Closure: Lace-up | Drop: twelve millimeters | Overall Rating: 4.8/5
Who They Do For
Ideal for men seeking a comfortable, long-lasting shoe with ankle support and stability for training and casual wear.
Why We Adore Them
Brooks’ Adrenaline GTS 22 sneakers provide excellent cushioning, stability, and support for those with weak or injury-prone ankles. The motion control technology limits excess movement and supports natural stride and foot alignment. The shoe demonstrated excellent stability and traction on treadmill, pavement, and light trails.
The soft, velvety cushioning is both lightweight and durable. We also noticed that the breathable, flexible top provides a snug but comfortable fit, keeping our feet securely in place. Furthermore, we enjoy how the shoes come in four widths, allowing for a custom-like fit. These shoes have the APMA Seal, which indicates that podiatrists believe they are beneficial to foot health.
Possible Flaws
- The shoes might require some time to break in, as they felt stiff when we initially put them on.
- We discovered that the heel cup may be too low for some people, producing a mild strain on the Achilles tendon. If you don’t have tight calves, this shouldn’t be a problem.
3. Best Women’s Budget
Saucony Integrity Walker 3
Pros
Solid support
APMA-approved
Excellent traction
Cons
Gets hot in warm weather
Slightly bulky
Key Specifications
The weight is 10.3 ounces | Material: Leather upper, foam midsole, rubber outsole | Cushioning: Medium | Closure: Lace-up | Release: Not stated | Overall Rating: 4.5/5
Who They Do For
Ideal for walking and hiking in chilly or cold weather over a variety of terrain.
Why We Adore Them
Saucony’s Women’s Integrity Walker 3 has a sturdy leather upper, good comfort, and dependable support—all at an affordable price.The firm cushioning provides strong impact protection and ankle stability on various terrains.
The sticky rubber outsole provided balance and stability on all surfaces. Furthermore, the APMA-approved shoe’s plush, form-fitting collar and tongue enhance its overall comfort and stability.
Possible Flaws
- The sturdy leather covering and plush cushioning limit the shoe’s breathability, so your feet may feel hot in hot weather.
- If you’re accustomed to wearing thin, low-profile shoes, these may feel slightly hefty at first.
4. Best Men’s Budget
Asics Gel-Venture 8
Pros
Great shock absorption
Excellent traction
Versatile for roads or light trails
Cons
May run narrow
Not super sleek looking
Key Specifications
The weight is 10.5 ounces | Supplies: Mesh, synthetic leather upper, foam and gel insole, synthetic outsole | Cushioning: Moderate | Lace-up closure | Drop: 10 millimeters | Our overall rating is 4.5/5
Who They Do For
Ideal if you require a sturdy shoe for road running and modest terrain hiking.
Why We Adore Them
ASICS’ GEL-VENTURE 8 shoes are both sturdy and versatile, making them ideal for road running, trail running, and light trekking. The grippy rubber outsole ensures stability on uneven and damp conditions, while the gel-cushioned midsole provides responsiveness and comfort. Furthermore, the mesh top is strengthened with abrasion-resistant overlays, ensuring a snug and safe fit.
The shoe includes a sock liner that is meant to fit your foot, but it is also removable if you wear orthotics. We appreciate how the reverse-traction lugs provide additional protection and traction without exceeding our budget.
Possible Flaws
- The toe box is small, but wide sizes are available for more room.
- These sneakers do not have the most slim, streamlined appearance.
5. Best for Distance Running
Hoka Clifton 9
Pros
Lightweight but supportive
Plush cushioning
APMA-approved
Cons
We recommend wearing them with high socks to prevent blisters
Key Specifications
Weight: 7.3 ounces | The substance is Recycled mesh upper, foam midsole, and rubber outsole | Comfort: Smooth but reactive | Closure: Lace-up | Release: 5 millimeters | Overall Rating: 4.2/5
Who They Do For
Ideal for distance runners who require a lightweight shoe with additional ankle support.
Why We Adore Them
Distance runners require a lightweight, well-cushioned, and long-lasting shoe, such as HOKA’s Clifton 9, which is one of our favorites. While testing, we were instantly impressed with the soft, step-in sensation and foot-hugging comfort. The springy midsole is extremely sensitive and enables for seamless transitions. Furthermore, despite the excellent cushioning and adequate support, the shoes are surprisingly lightweight.
The rubber outsole provides grip and impact protection, while the padded tongue and collar bring extra support and comfort. And we like how the large heel tab makes it easier to put on and take off the shoe. The APMA-approved shoe’s toe box provides space for toes and forefoot to spread out for stability.
Possible Flaws
- Although practical, the height heel tab may cause blisters if you do not wear high socks with these shoes.
- While we adore the soft padding for long-distance comfort and support, some may find it excessively thick.
6. Best for Walking
New Balance 990v5
Pro
Excellent cushioning and support
Wide, spacious toe box
Available in three widths
Cons
Feels somewhat heavy
Slightly bulky
Key Specifications
Weight: 11.3 ounces | Ingredients: Suede leather and synthetic mesh upper, foam and polyurethane midsole, rubber outsole | Comfort: Soft but responsive | Lace-up closure | Release: 12 millimeters | Our Final Rating: 4.3/5
Who They Do For
Ideal for enthusiastic walkers who want additional ankle support and stability.
Why We Adore Them
New Balance’s 990v5 sneakers include a dual-density foam midsole that keeps us stable and balanced on a variety of terrain. Furthermore, the shoe’s padded tongue and collar provide increased comfort and stability, particularly around the ankle. We really appreciate the shoes’ blown rubber outsole, which feels sticky and robust, which provides additional support.
We also like how the padding is soft but sensitive, which helps to propel our strides. The upper is made of mesh and suede, making it both breathable and elegant. And we like how the big toe box allows toes to spread out, which aids in balance. You can even fit custom-made orthotics, which is extremely beneficial for people who have foot injuries or problems.
Possible Flaws
- Some people may not like the hefty look and feel of this shoe.
- We do not recommend this pair for short or long runs because they feel hefty.
7. Best for Flat Feet
Brooks Women’s Glycerin GTS 20
Pro
APMA-approved
Excellent cushioning
Breathable design
Cons
May run narrow
Not as comfortable as other options
Key Specifications
Weight: 9.1 ounces | The components: Partially recycled engineered air mesh upper, foam midsole, and rubber outsole | The cushioning: Maximum | Closure: Lace-up | Release: 10 millimeters | Overall Rating: 5/5
Who They Do For
Ideal if you have flat feet and require motion control shoes that limit pronation.
Why We Adore Them
Motion control shoes help flat feet by limiting excessive pronation and preventing discomfort. Brooks’ Glycerin GTS 20 effectively manages pronation and prevents ankle rolling.
Testing revealed strong ankle and arch support without added weight or stiffness. We were especially surprised by the shoe’s velvety padding, which offers superb shock absorption—ideal for all jump rope activities. Furthermore, the breathable mesh top conforms to your foot’s specific shape for a secure, custom-like fit. These APMA-approved motion control shoes also allow you to insert custom orthotics.
Possible Flaws
- The shoe’s forefoot runs small, but wide sizes are available for extra room.
- These motion control sneakers are less plush and comfortable than the other options on our list.
8. Best for Trail Running
Nike Women’s Pegasus Trail 4 GORE-TEX
Pro
Ankle collar offers extra protection
Versatile for trails or roads
Waterproof
Cons
Not suitable for very technical terrain
May run slightly small
Key Specifications
Weight: 8 ounces | Ingredients: Engineered mesh upper, foam midsole, rubber outsole | Comfort: Lightweight and responsive | Lace-up closure | Drop: 8.5 millimeters | Our Average Rating: 4.5/5
Who They Do For
It’s best to run on the road or mild trails in a variety of weather conditions.
Why We Adore Them
Nike’s Pegasus Trail 4 GORE-TEX prevents ankle rolling on damp, uneven terrain. The robust, waterproof upper kept our feet dry and cool during test runs in varied conditions.
Meanwhile, the full-length foam cushioning provides superior support and bouncy response. We discovered that the sturdy rubber outsole feels solid and grippy on roads and light trails, even in wet weather. Furthermore, the toe box allows for ample toe splay, which aids in trial balance and stability.
Possible Flaws
- If you plan on hiking more technical, advanced paths, you may want to consider a shoe with more aggressive traction.
- We discovered that these sneakers may run small, so if you’re between sizes, we recommend sizing up.
9. Best for Plantar Fasciitis
Hoka Women’s Bondi 8
Pro
Maximum cushioning
Very stable and durable
APMA-approved
Cons
Feels somewhat heavy
Not as springy as other options
Key Specifications
It is 8.9 ounces | Supplies: Partially recycled mesh upper, foam midsole, rubber outsole | Softness: Maximum | Closure: Lace-up | Release: 4 millimeters | Total Rating: 4.7/5
Who They Do For
Ideal for those who suffer from foot pain or plantar fasciitis and require a comfortable, cushioned shoe for walking, running, and daily use.
Why We Adore Them
HOKA’s Bondi 8 provides a comfortable, stable ride, ideal for those with foot pain like plantar fasciitis. The APMA-approved shoe’s velvety yet supportive cushioning offers excellent shock absorption, reducing the strain on your plantar fascia. In addition, the heel has more cushioning, which provides additional ankle protection.
During wear tests, we immediately noticed the snug, secure fit. We value the shoe’s cushioned tongue and memory foam collar for their added comfort and support. The breathable mesh upper protects, while the durable rubber outsole provides traction on a range of surfaces. This is one of our favorite shoes for plantar fasciitis, and it will not disappoint.
Possible Flaws
- These are one of HOKA’s heavier, thicker sneakers, thus they are not ideal for speed exercises.
- These are less bouncy and responsive than the other walking and running sneakers we’ve reviewed.
10. Best for Hiking
Arc’teryx Aerios FL 2 Mid GTX Hiking Shoe
Pro
Mid height provides good ankle support
Excellent traction
Waterproof
Cons
Laces are not easy to tie
Pricier than other options
Key Specifications
It is 13 ounces | The components: recycled polyester mesh upper, foam midsole, rubber outsole | The cushioning: Medium | Closure: Lace-up | Release: Not specified | Our general rating is 4.6/5
Who They Do For
Ideal for hikers who require more ankle support on and off the route.
Why We Adore Them
Arc’teryx’s Aerios Mid GTX Shoes are tough, supportive, and protective when trekking on and off-road. The mid-cut height offers ankle support, while the integrated shank provides midfoot stability, ensuring balance on uneven surfaces. In fact, we believe it’s one of the greatest hiking shoes available.
During test treks, our feet and ankles were properly supported and protected over a variety of terrains. The waterproof barrier also kept our feet dry and comfy, preventing overheating or excessive sweating. Furthermore, we discovered that the robust rubber outsole gives excellent traction, contributing to the shoe’s overall safety.
Possible Flaws
- We initially found the laces difficult to tie.
- While these shoes may be more expensive than others on our list, they are well worth the investment for serious hikers.
We Also Tested Ankle Support Shoes
We tested over 130 pairs of sneakers and selected ten for our final list of recommendations. Although these shoes may be appropriate for some exercises, they fell short in terms of ankle support.
- Although we appreciated Nike’s Metcon 8’s lightweight feel and traction, we found it lacking in ankle support for navigating diverse terrains. We believe these are better suited for indoor strength training or weightlifting.
- Saucony’s Men’s Endorphin Pro 3 Shoe stands out for its springy responsiveness, sleek design, and lightweight feel. However, it does not provide adequate ankle support for those who have weak or injured ankles.
- Altra’s Women’s Rivera 3 is a high-quality, long-lasting running shoe with responsive cushioning and a lightweight feel. However, we considered the support to be inadequate, and we’d be wary about running or walking in them on rough terrain.
Our Current Situation
After testing 130 sneakers, we found these ten offer excellent support for weak or injured ankles. Brooks’ Adrenaline GTS 22 and On’s Cloud Swift 3 emerged as top picks, excelling in comfort, stability, and durability. We are always testing sneakers and updating this list to provide the most relevant, dependable information and suggestions.
What to Look for in Ankle Supportive Shoes
- Motion control shoes, like Brooks’ Adrenaline GTS 22, reduce excessive foot and ankle movement, ideal for weak ankles.
- Support: Choose a shoe with a well-cushioned footbed to provide additional support and shock absorption. Dr. Kaplan recommends shoes with adequate arch support that match your arch shape and alignment for ankle instability or injury.
- Fit: To avoid toe problems like black toenails, leave at least a half-inch between your longest toe and the tip of your shoe. Dr. Neufeld emphasizes comfort, padding, cushioning, and proper fit as key factors when selecting a shoe.
- A shoe’s heel-to-toe drop is the difference in height between the heel and the forefoot. Its drop influences your cadence, foot strike, and which area of your body bears the weight or impact of each stride. In running or walking shoes, the drop is usually between 0 and 12 millimeters. A high heel-to-toe drop promotes heel-strike gait, increasing impact on the heel and ankle, which may cause damage. Smaller heel-to-toe drops encourage forefoot striking, reducing strain on knees, ankles, and hips, which may help prevent injuries.
How We Checked The Most Effective Shoes for Ankle Support
We reviewed over 130 pairs of shoes to find the best ones offering extra support for weak or injured ankles. When we test shoes, we assess each choice using the following criteria:
The Main Points To Checked For Ankle Support Shoes
- Fit: When we put each shoe on for the first time, we take note of the initial fit. Is it a thumb’s width between our toes and the end of the shoe? Then we begin walking or jogging to observe whether there is any rubbing, sliding, or shifting inside the shoe while moving. As we continue to wear-test each shoe, we monitor how the fit and feel change over time.
- Comfort: If your shoe is not comfy, you will not wear it, so the following step is to evaluate comfort. During each wear test, we focus on how the material feels: Are there any bothersome seams? Are our feet feeling overheated? Is there any painful chafing or rubbing? We value shoes that keep our feet cool, comfy, and free of blisters for hours on end.
- Stability is especially crucial while evaluating ankle support shoes. During our test walks and runs, as well as regular usage, we look for any knee or ankle instability. We also emphasize shock absorption and impact protection. For this test, we favored shoes with additional motion control or stability capabilities.
- Cushioning: Protection preference is subjective, with some individuals favoring a soft midsole while others prefer a firmer landing. We test how well each shoe’s cushioning absorbs impact during foot strikes. We also keep track of any foot, knee, or limb instability, weariness, or pain. Regardless of cushioning quality (plush or firm), shoes gain good marks if they keep our feet comfy and protected throughout testing.
- Overall value: After thoroughly wear-testing each shoe, we assess its price to decide whether it is worthwhile. To determine the total value of a shoe, we assess its performance, durability, and pricing. We favor shoes that we would consider purchasing at the listed price, or even higher.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is ankle support necessary?
Ankle support protects you from severe foot injuries, which can necessitate months of recuperation, physical therapy, and, in some cases, surgery. Dr. Kaplan asserts that supportive shoes mitigate injury risk and enhance walking or running mechanics.
What is the greatest technique to tie shoes to support your ankles?
Some sneakers contain an extra eyelet at the top that can be used to increase ankle support. Lace your shoes through the top eyelets and tie a double knot to ensure a snug fit around the ankle.
Can a lack of ankle support cause injuries?
Yes, absence of ankle support can result in injury. Approximately 16% to 40% of all sports injuries involve the ankle, and this form of injury might result in a lengthier absence from physical activity than other types. Ankle support shoes, braces, and other ankle support goods can be beneficial.
