10 Best Shoes for Ankle Support When Walking [September 2023]: For Weak Ankles
After researching and analyzing the core features of 46 top shoes for ankle support, Brooks Adrenaline GTS 21 landed as our best ankle support shoes for both men and women. However, if you also need better arch support in the shoes, ASICS Gel Kayano shoes could be the more suitable to support your weak ankles.
Ah, ankles – those hard-working bones of ours that often take a beating! Whether you’re a runner or an avid walker, you know how common ankle injuries are. But, if you’re looking for an easy way to protect your ankles, you’re in luck – wearing the best ankle support shoes can make all the difference.
Must Read: How to stop shoes from rubbing the back of your ankle?
When you are on your feet all day, your ankles can become sore due to high strain on your feet, which can lead to severe ankle pain.
There are many ways to protect your ankles and relieve ankle pain, including foot stretch exercises, weight loss, etc. Choosing the right shoes that can support your bad ankles can also reduce the pressure on your sore ankles.
So, what should you look for in a pair of shoes that offers good ankle support? Well, first of all, you want to make sure they’re comfortable – they should fit snugly without pinching or rubbing. Additionally, you want to look for shoes that offer good arch support to help protect your ankles.
Furthermore, the shoes should be designed with shock-absorbing soles to reduce the impact on your feet and ankles when you walk or run. Ankle support shoes should also be lightweight and flexible so that your feet can move naturally.
Finally, the shoes for weak ankles should have a sturdy sole that can provide good traction and grip on a variety of surfaces. This will help prevent slips and falls, which can lead to ankle injuries.
Keeping in view all factors for ankle support shoes, I tried hundreds of shoes and came up with the 10 best walking shoes for weak ankle support for both men and women.
Let’s look at each ankle support shoe one by one and help you get your desired shoes that can support and protect your weak ankles.
Table of Contents
Best Ankle Support Shoes Comparison Table
Are High-Top Shoes Better for Ankle Support?
Wearing high-top shoes is the best way to protect your ankle as they are laced up above the “ankle” bones. It helps the muscles, ligaments, and tendons to work together in the right way.
Furthermore, according to the study on the effect of high-top shoes on the ankle sprain, high-top shoes delay the amplitude of the ankle’s response to turn inwards.
Another study shows that high-top American football cleats may reduce ankle ROM (particularly movements associated with ankle sprains such as inversion) and enhance athletes’ sense of ankle stability without disrupting their performance.
What Are Weak Ankles A Symptom Of?
Weak ankles are a symptom of several conditions, including osteoarthritis and diabetes. When the cartilage of the ankle is damaged, your bones start to rub together and form a mass of bone. The condition often starts with pain and swelling in the ankle joints. The symptoms of weak ankles include pain, swelling, tenderness, stiffness, warmth, redness, and loss of function of the ankle.
There are many factors that contribute to weak ankles, including a lack of exercise, certain types of injuries, and genetics.
Athletes who play basketball or soccer often experience weak ankles due to their repetitive movement patterns. The ankles are prone to injury because they are constantly working hard and putting a lot of pressure on them. The main reason for this is that the lower leg bones have a higher center of gravity than the upper leg bones.
As a result, the ankle joint is under constant strain which eventually leads to ankle pain. The best thing you can do to prevent ankle injuries is to wear proper footwear.
For example, high-top basketball sneakers should provide good ankle support.
How Can I Make My Ankles Stronger?
You can make your ankles stronger by performing ankle exercises regularly. Ankle exercises can be done while sitting or standing.
They help strengthen the muscles of the lower legs and the back of the ankle. It can also improve your balance and flexibility.
Ankle strengthening exercises should include exercises that target the muscles of the rearfoot, calf, and quadriceps.
The calf muscles can be strengthened by performing calf raises. The quadriceps can be trained by doing leg curls. You can also do toe raises and squats to strengthen the calves.
To perform ankle exercises, you should stand with your feet hip-width apart. Then, you should bend your knees, flex your ankles and raise your heels up. Do this once daily.
For the best results, you should work with a physical therapist who can teach you proper techniques for strengthening your ankles.
Do Arch Supports Help Ankle Pain?
Arch supports or orthotics are a good way to relieve ankle pain. They can help align your lower back and hips in the right position, which will improve posture.
People with flat feet are prone to ankle pain because their arches are collapsed and they have no stability.
Arch supports are great at preventing ankle pain in these people. They are usually made of soft material and fit into your shoe. They will provide extra support for your ankles and help them to maintain a normal shape.
Moreover, shoes with firm and deeply padded soles, as well as lacing (or top support) that inhibits movement within the shoes to keep your foot in place, are ideal for flat feet.
On the other hand, people with high arch feet need ankle support shoes with soft cushioning or padding to ease the uneven pressure points on their feet.
Bonus Read: Can shoes cause ankle pain
Best Shoes for Ankle Support When Walking
Here are my recommendations for the best walking shoes for ankle support.
1. Brooks Adrenaline GTS 21 – Best Overall Shoes Ankle Support
| Key Features | Benefits |
|---|---|
| Arch support | Provides stability and comfort to feet |
| Cushioning | Soft and comfortable cushioning system that absorbs shock |
| Support and Guidance | The Guiderails Holistic Support System keeps excess movement in check reducing ankle and knee injuries |
| True to size | Fits various foot sizes |
| Durability | Mixed reviews, some users report minimal wear and tear while some have faced holes and tears on the shoe after a few months |
| Toe box issue | Some users faced discomfort over the collapse of the toe box |
| Price Point | Premium price tag for performance running shoes |
The Brooks Adrenaline GTS 21 is one of the best shoes for ankle support in the market today. It’s a popular choice among runners, fitness enthusiasts, and people who spend most of their day on their feet. In this review, we’ll go through the shoe’s features, including stability, cushioning, fit, and support, and analyze them intelligently to help you make an informed decision.
Design and Fit
The Adrenaline GTS 21 has a modernized fit, thanks to its streamlined, engineered mesh upper with 3D Fit Print. The shoe offers the structure and proven fit the Adrenaline is known for and has achieved this without excess bulk. This means runners get the right support without having to compromise on comfort. The shoe is designed to offer high-level stability with a traditional heel drop, great for those with overpronation.
Moreover, the Adrenaline GTS 21 features a slightly snug fit, which is ideal for those with normal to narrow width feet. With its true-to-size feature, buyers can expect a perfect fit that caters to their needs.
However, some users have reported that the toe box collapses, folds, and creases over when they walk, digging into their big toe. Although this is not a common complaint, it’s something to keep in mind when deciding whether to buy this shoe or not.
Cushioning
One of the critical features of any running shoe is cushioning, and the Adrenaline GTS 21 does not disappoint. The shoe’s DNA LOFT Crash Pad cushions each footfall and works with BioMoGo DNA to adapt to the runner’s every stride. Users like the cushioning of the shoe; it’s soft but not mushy, absorbs shock well, and provides a smooth ride.
The DNA LOFT Crash Pad is a cushioning system that is placed under the heel of the foot to disperse the impact of the foot strike across the shoe. This helps to reduce the stress on the feet and legs and also helps to support the natural foot movement during running.
On the other hand, BioMoGo DNA is a cushioning system that is made from a biodegradable foam material. This foam material adapts to the force of the foot strike during running and provides a custom cushioning effect to the runner’s foot. It is also designed to provide the right amount of cushioning at the right time.
When these two technologies are combined, they create a cushioning system that is both responsive and adaptive to the runner’s foot strike. The DNA LOFT Crash Pad provides the initial impact absorption, while the BioMoGo DNA adapts to the runner’s unique stride and provides the right amount of support and cushioning.
Stability and Support
The Brooks Adrenaline GTS 21 is a popular running shoe that offers excellent support and guidance for runners. Its features make it a reliable option for people with ankle or knee issues.
One of the key features of this shoe is the Guiderails Holistic Support System. This system ensures that excess movement is kept in check while running, which can help prevent injuries and minimize pain.
The system accomplishes this by focusing on the whole body, rather than just the feet. This means that the shoe gives support and guidance to the entire body, not just the feet. This is important because when the feet are in motion, the ankle and knee joints are also in motion. By providing support to the whole body, the shoe ensures that there is no unnecessary movement, which can cause pain and discomfort.
Another feature that makes the Brooks Adrenaline GTS 21 a reliable option for runners is its stability. The shoe has a wide base that keeps the foot stable and secure while in motion. This is especially important for people with ankle or knee issues because they may have trouble keeping their balance or may be more prone to falling.
The APMA Seal of Acceptance is a noteworthy credential granted by the American Podiatric Medical Association. It is awarded to footwear that has undergone rigorous testing and meets specific criteria for safety, comfort, and support. Having the APMA Seal of Acceptance is a good indicator that the shoe is well-designed and beneficial for those who wear it.
The PDAC A5500 Diabetic shoe certification is another significant credential of the Adrenaline GTS 21. This certification signifies that the shoe has been specifically designed to meet the needs of people with certain medical conditions such as diabetes, which may require proper support and cushioning to prevent further complications.
Durability
When it comes to durability, the Adrenaline GTS 21 has mixed feedback from users. Some users said the shoe lasted well and showed minimal wear after months of use, while others complained that the shoe developed holes or tears in the upper or the sole after a few weeks or months. However, the majority of users appear to be pleased with the shoe’s durability, and this is something to bear in mind before making a purchase.
Overall Rating
| Key Decision-making Factors | Performance Rating |
|---|---|
| Design and Fit | 8/10 |
| Cushioning | 9/10 |
| Stability and Support | 9/10 |
| Durability | 7/10 |
Read Full Review: Brooks Adrenaline GTS 21 Review
What I Liked
- Great fit due to low-bootie construction
- Good cushioning support
- Great stability
What I Didn’t Like
- Toe box could dig into the big toe
- The slightly snug fit may not be ideal for users with wide feet.
2. ASICS Gel Kayano 28 – Best Shoes for Weak Ankles and Arch Support
| Key Features | Benefits |
|---|---|
| New upper design | Provides a secure fit and improved breathability |
| Flytefoam Blast midsole material | Better cushioning and energy return for a smoother ride |
| External heel counter | Enhanced rearfoot support and stability |
| Trusstic System technology | Offers support and minimizes the weight of the sole unit |
| OrthoLite X-55 sockliner | Improves comfort and reduces pressure on the feet |
The ASICS Gel-Kayano 28 is a top-rated stability running shoe that can effectively alleviate symptoms of Ankle Support. The shoe has been recently updated from its predecessor, the Gel-Kayano 27, making it more comfortable and secure for individuals with the condition.
Upper Design
ASICS Gel-Kayano 28 has a new upper design that provides enhanced breathability and a snug fit, preventing your feet from moving while running, thus reducing chances of injuries. Moreover, the new upper also provides a complete lock-down feel, which is a good feature for sprained ankles. However, some users complain that the new upper is a bit heavy for long-distance running.
Midsole Material
The Asics Gel Kayano 28 is a type of running shoe that offers various benefits to its users, including excellent cushioning and energy return. One of the key features of this shoe is its midsole material, known as Flytefoam Blast.
Flytefoam Blast is a unique type of foam that offers a lightweight, yet responsive feel. It is designed to be both cushioned and bouncy, which means it can absorb shock while also returning energy to the wearer’s stride. This feature is particularly important for runners, as it can help reduce fatigue and enhance performance.
Moreover, this material offers an extra push-off power to the runners. This means that the material helps in the repulsion of the wearer’s foot from the surface with every step, which can be beneficial for individuals with Ankle Support. The push-off power helps to ease the pressure on the ankle and reduces the risk of injuries.
External heel counter and Rearfoot Support
The ASICS Gel-Kayano 28 features a lower-profile external heel counter designed to provide essential rearfoot support for those with ankle support needs. Ankle support is essential for runners as it helps prevent injuries while providing comfort and stability during a run.
The external heel counter is a rigid piece of material that is built into the heel region of the shoe. Its primary function is to stabilize the rearfoot during the landing phase of running. When running, the foot strikes the ground with a force that can cause the ankle to twist inward, which can lead to ankle sprains or other injuries. Therefore, external heel counters help prevent this inward twisting motion by cradling the foot and providing support that stabilizes the rearfoot.
The Gel-Kayano 28 specifically features a lower-profile external heel counter which reduces the overall weight of the shoe while still providing the necessary support to help avoid discomfort or slipping. The lower-profile design ensures a snug fit and prevents the foot from moving around inside the shoe, which is crucial for those with ankle support needs.
Dynamic DuoMax Support System
The Dynamic DuoMax support system is a technology found in the shoe that is designed to provide improved stability and support for people who overpronate or have neutral feet. Overpronation is the condition where the foot rolls inwards excessively and can cause various issues such as ankle sprains, shin splints, and knee pain.
This technology aims to control the inward rolling of the heel and foot by using dual-density materials to reinforce the midsole of the shoe. The firmer foam is placed on the inside of the shoe to provide support and minimize the overpronation, while the softer material is placed on the outside to cushion the footstrike. This design helps to distribute the weight of the foot more evenly across the shoe, which can reduce the strain on the ankle, thereby preventing injuries.
For people with ankle support needs, the Dynamic DuoMax support system can be a life-changing feature as it provides additional support and stability to the ankle, which can prevent it from rolling inward or outward. By controlling the foot’s motion, this technology can also reduce the risk of ankle injuries, as well as minimize or alleviate pain caused by various foot conditions, including plantar fasciitis, bunions, and flat feet.
Trusstic System Technology
The Trusstic System technology in the shoe is an advanced feature that combines a lightweight design with structural integrity to provide improved support and stability to the foot. It is placed in the sole unit of the shoe and helps in the reduction of the sole unit’s weight.
Ankle support is commonly required by people who engage in activities that put excessive strain on their feet and ankles, such as running, jumping, or playing sports. The structural integrity provided by the Trusstic System technology helps to enhance the stability and support of the foot, which is crucial for preventing ankle injuries.
In addition to the Trusstic System technology, the shoe also has a medial post reinforcement in the middle part of the sole. This feature further reduces the twisting of the shoe and provides additional support to the foot, thus decreasing the risk of foot injuries.
When the foot lands on the ground, it often twists or rolls slightly to adjust to the surface. The twisting or rolling motion can lead to instability, and in some cases, it can lead to an ankle injury. The medial post reinforcement in the middle part of the sole helps to prevent this twisting or rolling motion, thereby reducing the likelihood of injuries.
Comfort and Fit
The OrthoLite X-55 sock-liner in the ASICS Gel-Kayano 28 offers improved comfort to the feet even when running long distances. Its heel area is also designed to keep the feet in a regular position, correcting pronated posture crucial for individuals with Ankle Support.
Final Verdict
The ASICS Gel-Kayano 28 is an excellent running shoe for individuals dealing with Ankle Support. Its dynamic design, coupled with its features such as the Trusstic System technology, Dynamic DuoMax support system, and improved midsole material, make it a perfect fit for those with Ankle Support. Despite its bulky weight, the shoe provides a smooth and comfortable experience, outweighing any cons. The shoe should be at the top of anyone’s list looking for a reliable and high-quality running shoe for Ankle Support.
Overall Rating
| Key Decision-Making Factors | Performance Score |
|---|---|
| Upper Design | 8/10 |
| Midsole Material | 10/10 |
| External Heel Counter and Rearfoot Support | 9/10 |
| Dynamic DuoMax Support System | 10/10 |
| Trusstic System Technology | 9/10 |
| Comfort and Fit | 9/10 |
What I Liked
- Also good for overpronation
- Lightweight
- Comfortable toe box
What I Didn’t Like
- Less cushioning
3. Brooks Addiction Walker – Comfortable Walking Shoes for Weak Ankles
| Key Features | Description |
|---|---|
| Support | Extended Progressive Diagonal Rollbar provides maximum arch support to guide and keep your body in its natural path of motion |
| Cushioning | BioMoGo DNA adapts to your stride, weight, and speed to provide soft cushioning for every step |
| Outsole | Slip-resistant and provides a secure fit with Forefoot MC Pod construction and an innovative outsole that sets your foot in an efficient, balanced, and stable position |
| Leather Upper | Classic and professional look with a durable full-grain leather upper |
| Sizing and Comfort | Comes in various widths and sizes for men and women. Some users suggest ordering half size larger or wider than usual for more comfort. Once broken in, they offer all-day comfort and stability |
| Potential drawbacks and issues | Some users report that the shoe is stiff and takes time to break in. The leather upper can make the shoe uncomfortable in warm weather. |
Brooks Addiction Walker is a popular shoe among individuals who require ankle support. It is available in variable widths and sizes, catering to both men and women. The shoe design is structured to offer maximum control and support during overpronation, making it suitable for those with low arches.
Maximum Support
The Brooks Addiction Walker is equipped with the Extended Progressive Diagonal Rollbar, which is a crucial feature for providing maximum arch support. People with flat feet and overpronation issues can cause severe pain in ankle joints. Moreover, it can also aggravate the problem of accessory navicular syndrome.
The Extended Progressive Diagonal Rollbar stabilizes and prevents the foot from rolling inwards, leading to improved balance and injury prevention. The Brooks shoes’ unique feature is made of tri-density material that is both comfortable and durable.
Soft Cushioning
BioMoGo DNA soft cushioning technology customizes the wearer’s stride, weight, and speed, providing a comfortable walking experience. It reduces the impact of every step, alleviating stress on the ankle, knee, and other joints.
Cushioning is vital for individuals with ankle support issues as it reduces the impact of every step, providing shock absorption while reducing pain and discomfort. The shock-absorbing feature also works as a preventive measure against foot damage.
Slip-Resistant and Secure Fit
The Brooks Addiction Walker, with a Forefoot MC Pod construction and innovative outsole, allows for an efficient, balanced, and stable position. It improves posture, reduces strain on the feet, ankles, and knees, specifically for those walking on hard surfaces.
The MC Pod construction system comprises forefoot pods that strategically balance cushioning and stability by dynamically adapting to footsteps. This stabilizes and balances each stride, thereby reducing injuries due to overpronation or supination. It is essential for individuals working in environments with slippery or wet floors as the innovative outsole has slip-resistance certification (SATRA TM144:2011).
Leather Upper
Brooks Addiction Walker comes with a full-grain leather upper, offering a classic and professional look. However, the leather upper may make the shoe uncomfortable in warm weather or humid environments. It is important to consider the weather condition before planning to wear these shoes.
Sizing and Comfort
The Brooks Addiction Walker shoe comes in multiple widths and sizes suitable for men and women, making it easier for those requiring ankle support to find a comfortable and supportive shoe. Most users report the shoe fits true to size and width. However, some suggest ordering half a size larger or wider than usual for more comfort. The shoe may need some breaking in before providing all-day comfort and stability essential for individuals with foot conditions.
Overall Performance Scores
| Key Decision-Making Factors | Performance Score (out of 5) |
|---|---|
| Maximum Arch Support | 4.5 |
| Soft Cushioning | 4.5 |
| Slip-Resistant | 4.5 |
| Secure Fit | 4.5 |
| Leather Upper | 3.5 |
| Sizing and Comfort | 4.0 |
Also Read: Brooks Shoes Sizing
What I Liked
- Increased Cushioning
- Great stability
- Soft footbed
What I Didn’t Like
- Size is sometimes large
4. Propét LifeWalker – Best Men’s and Women’s Work Shoes for Ankle Support
These Propet Life Walker walking shoes for both men and women are the best ankle injury shoes that protect and strengthen your sore ankles when walking. They have a padded EVA midsole and rubber outsole that provides excellent support and stability to your ankles and feet.
The additional padding of these Propet LifeWalker shoes makes them comfortable for walking all day. The midsole of these shoes is designed to absorb the shock while protecting our heel from impact against the surface during each step of walking.
The upper of the shoes have tiny holes for ventilation to keep your feet aerated and free from odor. The shoes have two Velcro straps instead of lace-up closure that allows you to put on or off the shoes quickly. The padded collar of the shoes allows a tight and secure fit around your heels.
The insole of the shoes is lined with brushed nylon which makes it easy for you to slide in or out of the shoes. At the rear part, there is an extended heel counter and a built-in heel stabilizer that has been designed to secure the rearfoot properly. Both structures work perfectly to support your ankles and keep your feet steady during walking.
What I Liked
- Good arch support and stability
- Breathable
- Good cushioned insole
What I Didn’t Like
- Leather quality is not good
5. Vionics Walkers – Best Orthopedic Shoes for Ankle Support
If you are looking for walking shoes with good ankle support, the Vionic Walkers shoe is can be your choice. The shoes provide substantial arch support that keeps your feet aligned with your ankles while reducing the strain as well.
The shoes have an EVA footbed that is covered by a textile cover. It allows a smoother heel-to-toe transition by keeping the stress at your heels to a minimum level. The shoes have a rubber outsole that acts as a shock absorber and provides an excellent grip.
The shoes have Active Motion System (AMS) technology that provides a lightweight, breathable textile upper mesh and flexible cushioned midsole. The technology also includes a podiatrist-designed heel cup that is biomedically engineered to enhance stability and substantial arch support.
Please read my guide on shoes for knock knees. There, I have reviewed Vionics Walkers in detail.
What I Liked
- Great comfortability
- Good arch support
- Great Fit
What I Didn’t Like
- Less breathable
6. Under Armour Curry 5 – Best Basketball Ankle Support Shoes for Men
These are some of the best basketball and walking shoes for men that support weak ankles. The shoes’ midfoot has Shank System that extends mid-top from your arch, thus providing good heel support and preventing your ankles in the process.
The shoes encompass AnaFoam in the lateral forefoot wall and around the heel side of the shoes. This allows your feet to fit easily in the shoes without slipping and secure your ankles. The shoes have a charged cushion midsole that absorbs the impact and reduces the strain on your ankles
The shoes have a full-knit construction and are engineered with a mesh that makes them breathable and durable at the same time.
What I Liked
- Good heel support
- Great cushioning
- Breathable mesh
What I Didn’t Like
- Quality is not good according to the price
7. Vans SK8 – Best Sneakers with Good Ankle Support
If you are suffering from sprained, bad, or weak ankles, Vans SK8 is one of the best shoes to support ankles when walking. The shoes have a high-top design and cushioned collar that ensures a perfect fit around your ankles and provides comfort to your feet.
The high-top design feature makes them the best shoes for sore ankles as they give strength to your sore ankles. The snug fit of high-top padded collars offers more flexibility and boosts the mobility of your feet.
The upper of the shoes have a classic CANVAS with excellent flexibility and great breathing to your feet. Due to this extraordinary flexibility, the shoes can easily mold to your feet and offer extra comfort for all-day walking.
What I Liked
- Great cushioning
- Ideal fit
- Lightweight
What I Didn’t Like
- Arch and orthotics support is not good
8. Saucony Grid Omni Walker – Comfortable Shoes for Weak Ankles
If you are looking for the best shoes for good ankle support that can help with sprained or broken ankle injury problems, these Saucony Grid Omniwalker shoes can be one of the choices for you. The shoes have EVA midsole cushioning that is responsive and offers a smooth transition from heel to toe. The heel box of these shoes is low enough that it does not rub on your ankle’s bones.
The shoes are designed with extra padding with cushioned collar and tongue that offer comfort and cushioning to your ankles and feet. The collar has HYDRA MAX LINING which is a superior fabric to absorb moisture on your feet, and offer them an excellent feel when you step in.
The outsole of these shoes features Walk-Trac technology that improves your walking gait style by offering excellent traction and slip resistance. If you want to support your ankles and move freely, these can be the best walking shoes for ankle support.
What I Liked
- Excellent grip
- Wide toe sox
- Padded insole
What I Didn’t Like
- Shoes need more arch support
9. HOKA ONE ONE Bondi 7 – Best Walking and Training Shoes for Bad Ankle Problems
Hoka ONE ONE Bondi 7 shoes offer decent support to your feet and ankles. You can wear these shoes for everyday walking while protecting your sore ankles.
The advantage of these shoes is that they do not put pressure on the rear of your heel. If you have weak ankles, it is particularly important for you.
The upper part of the shoes has an open mesh that gives your feet good breathability and comfort. The shoes have a padded collar with a bit of higher modification. So, while putting on your shoes, and you’d like to slip them on instead of unlacing your shoes, this would make it more convenient. This feature helps to reduce the strain on your ankles.
The shoes also have an EVA midsole that extends along the whole length gives you excellent cushioning to your weak ankles, and makes you feel like you are walking on the pads.
The outsole of these shoes is engineered with Meta-Rocker technology that creates a forward driving fulcrum-type effect. This feature provides a smooth transition of your body weight onto the forefoot and reduces the force on your ankles.
Also Read: Best Hoka Shoes for Walking
What I Liked
- Good Cushioning
- Great fit in the toe box
- Good comfort
What I Didn’t Like
- Little bit heavy
10. Skechers Go Walk – Walking Shoes for Ankle Pain
These lightweight pull-on sneaker-type Skechers Go Walk shoes can also support your ankles as they offer great arch support to both men and women who have ankle injury issues.
These Skechers are great for absorbing heavy impact and are suitable for prolonged standing. They have seamless construction and are engineered with a mesh that provides excellent breathability and comfort to your feet.
The GOGA MAT insole of the shoes offers rebound cushioning and reduces the strain on your ankles by providing a bounceback from heel to toe. Ultra Pillar outsole of these Skechers give more support to your feet and energy return by ensuring comfort at each step.
What I Liked
- Great Breathability
- Lightweight
- Good comfort
What I Didn’t Like
- Size may not be fit
How to Choose Best Shoes for Ankle Support When Walking?
Here are the features of the best ankle support shoes for both walking and running.
High Top vs. Low Top
Before selecting high-top or low-top shoes, we need to look at their pros and cons for ankles. Some people prefer high-top shoes as they provide added support to the shoes due to their higher shank height. Some people prefer low-top shoes due to their lightweight and ability to maximize your motion.
Despite adding extra support to ankles, high-top shoes are relatively costlier, and extra material increases weight. So, it is up to you which shoes you would like to wear based on your needs.
Support
The shoes you will buy for weak ankles should have enough features to support and protect your bad ankles by providing stability. Usually, ankle support shoes have a padded collar that provides cushioning and a secure fit to step your feet in the shoes easily.
Good ankle support shoes also offer arch support and ensure your proper foot alignment when walking. The midsole of the shoes plays an essential role in supporting your ankles. A properly designed midsole can help in reducing the strain on ankles and absorb shock when walking. This can make the shoes more comfortable.
Fit
Selecting the walking shoes for ankle support requires that the shoes should fit properly around the feet. If the shoes do not fit properly around your heels and ankles, it won’t be a good decision to buy those shoes, no matter how much comfort they provide. For ankle support, arch support, or anything else to make a difference in your comfort, then the shoe must fit properly.
Some shoes have a lace-up closure, while some have vector straps to offer fitness to the feet. Both options are good. It is up to you which style you would like to buy based on your conditions.
Stability
Stability is also one of the most important aspects you should look into while buying the best ankle support shoes when walking. Each shoe has a different design based on the needs of the people. The shoes having features like raised heels, curved bottom, or a narrow toe might cause balancing issues for some people. Therefore, it is advisable to properly look at the features and reviews of ankle support shoes before buying them.
Cushioning
When you walk barefoot, the foot gets exposed to several forces such as friction, impact, and pressure. When you wear shoes, you put a lot of pressure on the ankle area which eventually leads to damage.
This pressure may be caused by the weight of your body, the pressure of the ground, or the movements of your feet. If you are barefoot, your foot absorbs the impact of these forces directly on its surface.
Cushioning of the best shoes for ankle support absorbs the shock and impact and protects your sore ankles by reducing the strain on them. Typically, EVA midsole shoes or GEL technology provide good cushioning and comfort to your feet by diminishing impact.
Some shoes also offer padded insoles, sock liners, or a seamless construction to enhance the shoes’ feel on your feet.
High-Back or Padded Collar
If you have ankle pain, I would suggest you avoid shoes with a low back. High-top shoes, having a high padded collar, are a good choice for you if you are suffering from a serious ankle injury as it protects your ankles from impact, and offers a comfortable feel.
Comfort
Shoes with good ankle support provide comfort to the feet in the form of fit, stability, and breathability. The upper of made shoes made of leather or suede material will adjust your foot shape well, while shoes with canvas or mesh are lightweight and breathable.
Final Thoughts About the Best Ankle Support Shoes
Ankle support shoes are designed to give you more comfort and stability while walking. They are designed to improve balance and increase your overall stability. A
nkle support shoes provide a stable platform for your ankle. They allow your ankle to move freely and keep your foot aligned properly. Also, Ankle support shoes help to reduce the swelling in your ankle. This can help to prevent ankle sprains.
If you need slightly better arch support, I would recommend you Saucony Progrid shoes for weak ankles. If you need wide-width shoes to support your ankles, Brooks Addiction Walker is the best option.
FAQs About Shoes for Ankles Support
What features should I look for in shoes with good ankle support?
Look for a high collar or shaft, lacing system that secures the ankle, stable heel counter, torsional rigidity and midsole cushioning.
Are high tops better for ankle support than low tops?
Generally yes, the higher collar on high tops provides more stabilization and restricts ankle motion more than low tops.
Do basketball shoes provide good ankle support?
Many do thanks to the mid/high collar and lacing system tying the foot in securely. Cushioning also helps prevent injury.
Should I buy soft or rigid soled shoes for ankle support?
Rigid soles limit ankle motion more effectively. But some cushioning is still important to absorb shock and impact. A hybrid sole like Brooks shoes offers both.
I have a bad ankle – what activities need the most support?
High intensity activities with cutting motions like basketball, tennis or hiking on uneven terrain require the most ankle support from shoes.
Can shoes correct pronation and support weakened ankles?
Stability shoes with features like medial/lateral posts can help restrict excessive pronation and support the ankle.
Can inserts or braces provide ankle support without stability shoes?
To some degree, but the right shoes are important to control ankle motion. Inserts and braces complement shoes.
