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Having weak ankles is no fun, especially when you're an otherwise fit, active person. Weak ankles can increase your risk of injury during athletic pursuits, whether that's a strenuous hike, an intense game of b-ball, or simply a stroll through your neighborhood. And yet, having weak ankles doesn't mean you have to give up your favorite activities. It just means you need to find the right form of ankle support.
The Best Shoes for Ankle Support - Our Top Picks
- Best High Top Shoes for Ankle Support: NoBull High-Top Trainers
- Best Ankle Support Shoes for Flat Feet: Hoka Rincon 3
- Best Trail Running Shoes for Flat Feet: Salomon Trail Running Shoes
- Best Men's Shoes for Ankle Support: Brooks Adrenaline GTS 22
- Best Shoes for Ankle and Arch Support: adidas Ultraboost 22
- Best Athletic Shoes for Ankle Support: adidas Solar Glide 5
- Best Women's Shoes for Ankle Support: Nike React Infinity Run Flyknit 2
- Best Walking Shoes for Ankle Support: New Balance 1540v3
- Best Running Shoes for Ankle Support: Asics Gel-Kayano
- Best Distance Running Shoes for Ankle Support: Asics GT-2000
- Best Hiking Shoes for Ankle Support: KEEN Targhee II
- Best Budget Shoes for Ankle Support: Saucony Cohesion 15
That starts with your shoes. Wearing shoes with built-in support can help you be comfortable and confident while you work out. The ACTIVE Reviews Team has evaluated some of the top options and come up with a list of the best shoes for ankle support.
Why Trust Us?
ACTIVE.com's editorial team relies on the knowledge and experience of fitness and wellness experts including competitive athletes, coaches, physical therapists, nutritionists, and certified trainers. This helps us ensure the products we feature are of the highest standard. Collectively, the team has spent countless hours researching equipment, gear, and recovery tools in order to create the most accurate, authentic content for our readers. Customer satisfaction is also a key part of our review process, which is why we only feature products that are highly rated.
Best High Top Shoes for Ankle Support - NoBull High-Top Trainers
SPECS
- Weight: N/A
- Materials: SuperFabric®, microsuede
Why We Picked It
If you have weak ankles, high-top shoes can be a bit of a mixed bag. They limit your range of motion but also improve support, meaning they can be a good choice for shooting hoops or weightlifting, if not for long walks and intense runs. The NoBull High-Top Trainers are a great pick for powerlifters in particular, offering extra padding for a secure fit, plus a flexible mesh base, abrasion-resistant materials, and reflective detailing.
What We Like
- Extra padding for secure fit
- Reflective detailing
- Excellent traction and support
- Sleek, modern style
What We Don't Like
- Not recommended for running
- Higher price point
Best Ankle Support Shoes for Flat Feet - Hoka Rincon 3
SPECS
- Weight: 7.2 oz.
- Materials: Mesh, foam, rubber
Why We Picked It
Hokas are a great, therapeutic option for those who have chronic foot problems, including flat feet. The Hoka Rincon 3 provides excellent support, including a compression-molded foam insole that hugs your foot and offers maximum stability. Also note the ventilated mesh upper, ideal for keeping your feet cool and fresh.
What We Like
- Well-ventilated for a fresh, cool feel
- Durable materials
- Thick outsole for traction and support
- Lightweight
What We Don't Like
- Slightly higher price point
- Not recommended if you prefer a high-top style
Best Trail-Running Shoes for Ankle Support - Salomon Trail Running Shoes
SPECS
- Weight: Varies
- Materials: Varies
Why We Picked It
The Salomon brand offers a full lineup of trail running shoes, all of which offer ample support for weak ankles as well as flat feet. We especially love these shoes for how grippy they are, for their lightweight design, and for their ample weatherproofing. This is an essential brand for anyone who loves running through the wild.
What We Like
- Lightweight
- Holds up in mud and rain
- Very grippy
What We Don't Like
- Price point can vary, but is often on the high side
- Not as recommended for indoor use
BUY: Salomon Trail Running Shoes
Best Men's Shoes for Ankle Support - Brooks Adrenaline GTS 22
SPECS
- Weight: 1 lb., 2.8 oz.
- Materials: Engineered Air Mesh, DNA LOFT cushioning
Why We Picked It
The Brooks Adrenaline GTS 22 is a running shoe designed for stability, providing moderate cushioning and a steadying fit. The GuideRails® holistic support system helps reduce excess movement, meaning less risk of ankle injury. And the midsoles promote an easier flow from landing to toe-off. Highly recommended for active men who need a little extra succor for their ankles.
What We Like
- Secure, steadying fit
- Made to minimize and control excess movement
- Good traction from rubber outsole
- Lots of colorways to choose from
What We Don't Like
- Higher price point
- Not recommended if you prefer high-top designs
Best Shoes for Ankle and Arch Support - adidas Ultraboost 22
SPECS
- Weight: N/A
- Materials: Mesh, BOOST midsole
Why We Picked It
The adidas Ultraboost 22 is widely considered to be one of the most supportive, performance-enhancing running shoes on the market. We especially recommend it if you have weak ankles as well as arches in need of succor. These adidas sneakers boast COLD.RDY technology to keep your feet nice and toasty, BOOST midsole cushioning for added propulsion, and rubber outsoles to ensure traction even in the slickest environments.
What We Like
- Great traction
- Excellent midsole cushioning
- Responsive feel
- Good shoes for cold weather wear
What We Don't Like
- Somewhat limited range of sizes
- Limited selection of colorways
Best Athletic Shoes for Ankle Support - adidas Solar Glide 5
SPECS
- Weight: 11.8 oz.
- Materials: Knit, rubber, BOOST midsole
Why We Picked It
There's a lot to love about the adidas Solar Glide 5, a good all-around athletic shoe that will protect your ankles during rigorous workouts. Everything about the shoe is made to enhance your performance, from the BOOST midsole to the lightweight knit upper. What's more, a large percentage of each shoe is made from sustainable and recycled materials, making this an excellent choice for the eco-conscious shopper.
What We Like
- Propulsive, shock-absorbing midsole
- Recycled materials used
- Iconic adidas styling
- Modest price point
What We Don't Like
- A little on the heavy side
- Not recommended if you have weak arches
Best Women's Shoes for Ankle Support - Nike React Infinity Run Flyknit 2
SPECS
- Weight: 8.6 oz.
- Materials: Flyknit, foam, rubber
Why We Picked It
Our pick for the best women's shoe for ankle support is the Nike React Infinity Run Flyknit 2. We love it because it provides superior support and stability not just at the ankle, but across the foot, including a wider forefoot to prevent rolling. The flyknit upper is lightweight and breathable, while the low rubber foam cushioning ensures a responsive feel. A great, high-performance shoe for runners looking to stabilize their ankles.
What We Like
- Responsive feel
- Breathable, lightweight upper
- Wide forefoot to prevent rolling
What We Don't Like
- Higher price point
- Limited colorway options
- Not recommended if you prefer high top designs
BUY: Nike React Infinity Run Flyknit 2
Best Walking Shoes for Ankle Support - New Balance 1540v3
SPECS
- Weight: N/A
- Materials: Foam, ENCAP and Rollbar midsole materials
Why We Picked It
The New Balance 1540v3 is our top recommendation for those who just want some support for their daily walks. All New Balance sneakers excel when it comes to cushioning, stability, and support, and this one is no exception. While it's a little heavier than the average shoe, it makes up for it with roll support and a breathable mesh upper.
What We Like
- Cool and breathable
- Roll protection
- Excellent for stability and overall support
What We Don't Like
- Higher price point
- A little on the heavy side
Best Running Shoes for Ankle Support - ASICS Gel-Kayano
SPECS
- Weight: 9.5 oz.
- Materials: Engineered knit, FF BLAST™ PLUS cushioning
Why We Picked It
The ASICS Gel-Kayano is designed specifically for avid runners, offering the steadying, supportive fit that you need for a rewarding workout. It's got several layers of cushioning, including a sockliner to improve stability, fit, and comfort. The upper is made from a nice, breathable knit, and reflective detailing offers added visibility for after-hours runs.
What We Like
- Breathable and lightweight
- Reflective detailing
- Excellent cushioning
What We Don't Like
- Higher price point
- Traction is just so-so
Best Distance Running Shoes for Ankle Support - ASICS GT-2000
SPECS
- Weight: 275g
- Materials: Mesh, foam, rubber
Why We Picked It
Go the distance with the ASICS GT-2000, running shoes made for the long haul. High-quality materials, including supple foam, help cradle and support your entire foot, and the adaptive mesh provides a snug, comfortable fit. There's also an extra off-toe bounce, helping you power through those really grueling treks.
What We Like
- Nice off-toe bounce
- Adaptive fit
- Excellent, cushioning foam
What We Don't Like
- Not recommended if you prefer a high-top style
- Aesthetics are a little dated
Best Hiking Shoes for Ankle Support - KEEN Targhee II
SPECS
- Weight: N/A
- Materials: Leather, rubber, mesh
Why We Picked It
KEEN is known for making world-class hiking gear, and their KEEN Targhee II is an especially supportive option. A premium rubber outsole offers tons of traction, keeping you in control even when you traverse uneven terrain. Meanwhile, an external stability shank provides plenty of support without contributing extra weight.
What We Like
- Lightweight
- Elastic gore ensures easy on and off
- Odor control
- Premium materials, including leather upper
What We Don't Like
- Not suitable for running or other high-intensity sports
- Higher price point
- Limited colorway options
Best Budget Shoes for Ankle Support - Saucony Cohesion 15
SPECS
- Weight: 9.1 oz.
- Materials: Mesh, rubber, VERASUN cushioning
Why We Picked It
Who says supportive shoes have to break the bank? The Saucony Cohesion 15 offers you everything you need for a healthy, feel-good run, for a price point that's well under $100. VERASUN cushioning helps absorb shock and impact, while the lightweight, breathable mesh keeps your feet feeling cool and fresh.
What We Like
- Lightweight and breathable
- Wide sizes available
- Modest price point
- Shock-absorbing cushioning
What We Don't Like
- Traction is just so-so
- Colorways are all fairly muted
How to Choose the Best Shoes for Ankle Support for You
Size
When shopping for the best shoes for ankle support, size and fit are essential. As a general rule, you'll want shoes that allow around half an inch of space between your longest toe and the tip of the shoe. A deep heel cup is also important for holding your foot securely in place.
Traction
A good rubber outsole should offer lots of traction, which in turn prevents your feet from rolling inward or outward. This stops your ankle from moving any more than is needed, helping to reduce your risk of injury. Look for decent soles with deep, wide grooves, which typically offer the most traction.
Support
The best shoe will offer support for your entire foot, not just the ankle. Seek soles that are stiff, but with a medium thickness. A well-cushioned footbed can also help, providing added shock absorption.
Type
If you're playing a sport like basketball, you may want to look into high-top shoes, which offer added ankle support. High tops also limit your range of motion, though, which means they're not as well-suited for activities such as running.
FAQs About Shoes for Ankle Support
Are high top shoes good for ankle support?
The higher the shoe, the more ankle support it provides. However, high tops also limit your range of motion, which may actually increase the risk of ankle injury if you're a runner. We recommend high tops for basketball and other sports.
How do you strengthen weak ankles?
Some general guidelines for strengthening weak ankles: Keep your weight under control. Always wear the appropriate footwear, including braces and other supports as needed. Do proper warm-ups and cool-downs when you work out. And try ankle-specific exercises, such as standing calf raises.
Why are my shoes causing my ankles to hurt?
This could be because they lack proper support, or because they are not appropriately sized for your foot.