Can you think of anything worse than spraining or twisting your ankle? Whether you’re hitting the gym to get healthy and lose some weight, love to run and jog, or simply enjoy walking and hiking with friends and family, a twisted or sprained ankle can be terrible news. What’s even more damaging, is the knowledge that with the proper type of shoe you may have avoided the injury altogether. That’s right! When it comes to ankle support, some shoes are better than others. Depending on what you’re planning on doing in your shoes, it’s a good idea to get shoes that offer quality ankle support.
Not sure where to begin your search for the best shoes for ankle support? Thankfully, we’ve done all the hard work for you! From running shoes and basketball shoes to skateboarding, walking, and constraining shoes, keep reading for a list of the best shoes for ankle support.
Top Men’s Shoes for Ankle Support
Now that you know why it’s important to get shoes with ankle support, it’s time to narrow down the top men’s shoes for ankle support. From running to walking, these are the top shoes for ankle support for men.
1. ASICS Men’s Gel Nimbus 18 Running Shoe
When it comes to the best shoes for ankle support, the ASICS Men’s Gel Nimbus 18 Running Shoe is certainly a contender. This premium running shoe is not only stylish and available in a variety of colors but is also extremely durable. The seamless upper is made flawlessly and these trainers are durable enough to wear every day.
What makes these shoes stand out is the extremely comfortable cushioning that supports your foot when you run. They also come with a FluidRide foam insole that provides shock absorption and cushion no matter where you’re running. The rubber outsole is also extremely durable and offers great traction. These shoes hug your feet snugly and with the Trusstic System that prevents twisting motions, you have ankle support to help you avoid injury.
As far as running shoes with great ankle support, you should certainly consider the ASICS Men’s Gel Nimbus 18 Running Shoe.
- Very plush and comfortable
- Durable outsole that provides great traction
- Comfortable lacing system provides a snug fit
- Seamless upper
- Trusstic System to prevent twisting motion
- One of the most expensive shoes on the market
2. Under Armour Men’s Lockdown Basketball Shoe
If you want the best shoe for ankle support when you hit the basketball court, the Under Armour Men’s Lockdown Basketball Shoe is a solid option. Not only are these shoes stylish and from the trusted Under Armour brand. These shoes are extremely lightweight and feature a breathable sock liner that not only provides cushioning and support but also keeps your feet cool and dry.
In addition, the Under Armour Men’s Lockdown Basketball Shoe also has great ankle support thanks to the supportive shaft. In addition, there’s a rubber outsole with adaptive traction to provide the support and grip necessary to keep you from slipping. Plus, the injection-molded EVA midsole provides a responsive feel that is supportive yet comfortable.
If you are searching for a great basketball shoe with ankle support, the Under Armour Men’s Lockdown Basketball Shoe is one to consider.
- Made from the trusted Under Armour name
- Molded synthetic upper for a snug fit
- Perforated leather offer breathability to keep feet cool and dry
- Lightweight and breathable sock liner offers cushioning and support
- Rubber outsole includes adaptive traction patterns for great on-court movement
- Can run a little big
3. New Balance Men’s MW759 Country Walking Shoe
When you want walking shoes with great ankle support, you should look at the New Balance Men’s MW759 Country Walking Shoe. This shoe is a great walking shoe that comes with the ankle support and comfort you need. While you won’t win many fashion contests with these shoes, they have a compression-molded mid-sole that is both supportive yet cushioned, as well as Full-length ABZORB cushioning that reduces foot fatigue.
In addition, the New Balance Men’s MW759 Country Walking Shoe also has great shock absorption. These durable shoes come with a Ndurance rubber sole that provides traction no matter where you’re walking and what the weather conditions are. With these walking shoes from New Balance, you have the ankle support you need, as well as great cushioning, shock absorption and traction.
If you want a walking shoe that has great ankle support, definitely check out the New Balance Men’s MW759 Country Walking Shoe.
- Great value
- Compression-molded mid-sole enriched with ENCAP EVA core and polyurethane
- Ndurance rubber man-made sole offers great traction
- Suede and mesh uppers are ideal for keeping feet cool and dry
- Full-length ABZORB cushioning is very comfortable and supportive
- Extremely durable shoes that hold up in any weather and conditions
- Not the most stylish shoe
4. ASICS Men’s GT-2000 4 Running Shoe
Anyone searching for the best shoes for ankle support will love the ASICS Men’s GT-2000 4 Running Shoe for many reasons. Not only do these stylish shoes have great ankle support, but they also come in a variety of colors so you can choose the one you like best. These shoes aren’t just about style, they also offer all the substance you need.
Perhaps the best feature of the ASICS Men’s GT-2000 4 Running Shoe is the lacing system. Many runners struggle to find a lacing system that makes the shoe snug without being uncomfortable or having circulation cut off. That’s not the case with these shoes. In addition, the ASICS Men’s GT-2000 4 Running Shoe also offer great traction and a FluidRide midsole for comfort, support, and shock absorption.
If you want a great running shoe with ankle support, the ASICS Men’s GT-2000 4 Running Shoe is a solid contender.
- Great for long runs due to comfort and support
- Good lacing system for a snug and comfortable fit
- Available in a variety of colors and styles
- FluidRide midsole offers comfort and support
- Great traction for runners of all kinds
- Heavier than other types of shoes
- A bit expensive
5. Vans Unisex Sk8-Hi Slim Skate Shoe
If you are looking for the best shoes for ankle support, the Vans Unisex Sk8-Hi Slim Skate Shoe is a quality option. Not only are these shoes extremely stylish for casual wear, but they’re also great for skateboarders. They come in a variety of colors as styles as well, so you can choose an option that really matches your preferences.
These shoes don’t just look good, they’re also very comfortable and practical. The shoes offer a padded collar for added comfort and offer a snug fit. The collar is soft enough to provide comfort, but also has the strength necessary to provide stability. These shoes also feature a waffle-like outsole that provides all the traction you’ll need to avoid nasty spills while skateboarding.
When it comes to great skateboarding shoes with ankle support, you won’t find a better option than the Vans Unisex Sk8-Hi Slim Skate Shoe.
- Nice padded collar for comfort
- Waffled outsole provides great traction
- Toe area is reinforced for added protection
- Great skateboarding shoe for indoors or outdoors
- Canvas upper
- Stylish shoes that come in a variety of colors
- No removable footbed so you cannot use customer orthotics
Top Women’s Shoes for Ankle Support
Now that you know why it’s important to get shoes with ankle support, it’s time to narrow down the top women’s shoes for ankle support. From running to walking, these are the top shoes for ankle support for women.
1. Saucony Women’s ProGrid Integrity ST2 Walking Shoe
For anyone searching for a great walking shoe with ankle support, the Saucony Women’s ProGrid Integrity ST2 Walking Shoe is a good option. While these shoes only come in two colors, white/silver and black/gray, they have everything you need in a quality walking shoe. This includes great ankle support to keep you from rolling or twisting your ankle.
The Saucony Women’s ProGrid Integrity ST2 Walking Shoe is also extremely comfortable. Not only do they have a well-cushioned insole to provide comfort and support to your foot, but they also have a padded collar and tongue. This provides a snug fit without the risk of painful rubbing or blisters. The Saucony Women’s ProGrid Integrity ST2 Walking Shoe also has a full-grain leather upper that makes it durable and a solid rubber sole to provide great traction.
If you want a good walking shoe with ankle support, the Saucony Women’s ProGrid Integrity ST2 Walking Shoe is hard to beat.
- Full-grain leather upper
- Solid rubber sole to provide a great grip
- Extremely well cushioned to keep your feet comfortable and fatigue-free
- Great for those with high arches, insteps or Plantar Fasciitis
- Designed for runners and walkers
- Only available in two color combinations
- Not the most stylish shoe
2. RYKA Women’s Tenacity Cross-Trainer Shoe
If you want a great pair of cross-trainers that offer enhanced ankle support and comfort, check out what the RYKA Women’s Tenacity Cross-Trainer Shoe has to offer. Not only do these shoes come in a sleek black design, but they also provide joint stability and a snug fit for your foot. This shoe was created with aerobics and exercise in mind, which is why there is such great ankle support.
The RYKA Women’s Tenacity Cross-Trainer Shoe also offers enhanced traction with a rubber outsole. It’s designed for pivoting so you won’t need to worry as you go through your workout. The Flex-Foil and Direct-Fuse materials that make up the shoe are great for support and stability. There is also a Velcro strap that ads a bit more security.
If you’re interested in a great cross-trainer shoe with ankle support, the RYKA Women’s Tenacity Cross-Trainer Shoe is a solid option.
- Features a breathable mesh upper to keep feet cool and dry
- Velcro strap provides stability and a snug fit
- Pivot design outsole great for easy rotation
- Stable and sturdy construction that provides support where you need it
- Great outsole provides increased traction
- Heavier than other shoes on the list
3. ASICS Women’s Gel-Kayano 24 Running Shoe
People searching for the best shoe for ankle support will love the ASICS Women’s Gel-Kayano 24 Running Shoe. This shoe comes in a variety of colors so you can pick one that fits your preferences. The stylish shoe is designed for running and whether you run laps on the track, marathons, or cross-country, they’re a solid option.
When it comes to comfort and support, the ASICS Women’s Gel-Kayano 24 Running Shoe also delivers. These come with a stretchable upper that allows the shoe to fit snugly. It also has a heel clutching system that clings closely to your heel, while also providing support. Plus, the impact guidance system allows you to maintain your natural gait without as much fatigue. Last but not least, these great shoes for ankle support come with a FlyteFoam midsole for superior comfort.
When it comes to great running shoes for ankle support, the ASICS Women’s Gel-Kayano 24 Running Shoe is hard to beat.
- FluidFit upper provides comfort and support
- Heel clutching system technology
- FlyteFoam midsole provides enhanced comfort
- Comes with impact guidance technology for great shock absorption
- These are more costly than other shoes
4. New Balance Women’s 990V3 Running Shoe
When it comes to the best shoes for ankle support, the New Balance Women’s 990V3 Running Shoe is a hard one to beat. These shoes provide not only great ankle support but also support all around. The lightweight, flexible TPU TBEAM shank provides torsional stability and arch support that helps keep your ankle from rubbing. They’re also great for those with over-pronation or stability issues.
In addition, to support, these shoes are also comfortable. The no-sew upper application reduces your risk of irritation and the breathable mesh and synthetic liner, in conjunction with the breathable fabric lining, keep your feet cool and dry. The New Balance Women’s 990V3 Running Shoe also features a padded tongue and collar and high-energizing cushioning to add even more comfort.
If you want the best shoe for ankle support, the New Balance Women’s 990V3 Running Shoe is certainly a top contender.
- Great for those with overpronation/stability issues
- Breathable mesh and synthetic upper to keep feet cool and dry
- No-sew upper application reduces risk of irritation
- Plush collar and tongue
- Breathable fabric lining
- Lightweight, flexible TPU TBEAM shank provides torsional stability and arch support
- On the more expensive side
5. Skechers Work Sure Track – Trickel
You won’t win too many fashion contests with the Skechers Work Sure Track – Trickel but you will have great ankle support. These shoes come in only one option—black—and are a great casual sneaker or work sneaker. They are safe shoes, and are EH Safe tested ASTM F2892-11 for safety and have an Electrical Hazard (EH) Safe design. In addition, these shoes also have a slip-resistant rubber outsole that provides great traction.
In addition to being safe and having great ankle support, the Skechers Work Sure Track – Trickel is also very comfortable. These shoes have a plush tongue and collar, in addition to a memory foam topped removable comfort insole. While these insoles are great, it also allows you to slip in your own custom orthotics. There is also a soft fabric lining and a FlexSole shock absorbing midsole that reduces foot fatigue.
When it comes to casual or work shoes with great ankle support, the Skechers Work Sure Track – Trickel is certainly an option to check out.
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- EH Safe tested ASTM F2892-11 for safety
- Electrical Hazard (EH) Safe design
- SKECHERS Slip Resistant rubber traction outsole
- Plush tongue and collar
- Durable leather upper
- Soft shoe lining
- Memory Foam topped cushioned removable comfort insole
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- Not very stylish
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Top Shoes for Ankle Support: Buyer’s Guide
If you are going to buy the best shoes for ankle support it is important to know what to look for. Not all shoes are created equal and there are some shoes that are better than others when it comes to ankle support. If you want to reduce your risk of twisting, spraining or breaking an ankle, keep reading to learn what to keep an eye out for when selecting the top shoe for ankle support!
Budget: The first thing you should consider when you start shopping for the best shoes for ankle support, is your budget. You should check your finances and determine what your budget is for the shoes. There are great options in all budget categories, so don’t get too out of hand and splurge more than you can afford.
Comfort: There are many factors to consider when it comes to determining how comfortable a shoe is and a lot of times it comes down to personal preference based on your foot size and shape.
You should always look for a shoe that has great cushioning. This comes in different types, such as soft cushioning and stiffer cushioning. The type of arch you have plays a big role in this, so be sure to try shoes on and walk around to determine if they have the cushion you need.
Additional comfort features include a padded tongue and collar, contoured footbed, good arch support, and a removable insole. You should also look for lightweight shoes that won’t cause too much leg fatigue.
Style: Style is also something you should consider when looking for the best shoes for ankle support. While this is also a personal preference in terms of color, the style also means the type of shoe. High top shoes provide great ankle support for those already suffering from ankle issues or that are predisposed to ankle issues. However, low tops are great for the long run to help you build up ankle strength and avoid injuries altogether.
Shock Absorption: When you’re looking for the best shoes for ankle support you also should look for shoes that have shock absorption. This is the shoe’s ability to absorb impact. Not only does this reduce your foot and leg fatigue, but it also reduces the risk of your ankle twisting or turning.
Tongue: To avoid an ankle injury you don’t just need a shoe that has great ankle support. You also need a shoe that fits your foot snuggle. That’s why looking at the tongue of a shoe is so important. You want a cushioned tongue that allows you to lace the shoes tightly, without creating a rubbing sensation or irritation. Be sure to check the tongue to ensure you have a good, snug fit that is also comfortable.
Heel Counter: A heel counter is also essential in shoes with ankle support. These are responsible for adding balance and conforming snugly to the heel to provide added support. In essence, this keeps your heel from twisting and turning awkwardly, which in turn creates ankle issues.
Traction: Traction is also important, especially when you’re looking for the best shoes for ankle support. You want a shoe that has a rubber outsole that is specifically designed to provide great traction. This is especially important in a workout or basketball shoe to ensure that you don’t slip and roll your ankle. Shoes with textured bottoms are also great for providing traction.
Shank Plate: The shank plate is also essential when looking for the best shoes for ankle support. This is the material that is between the outsole and insole and is responsible for the support and structure of the shoe. Without it, a shoe is floppy and would essentially fold over on itself. If you can bend a shoe in the middle, it means there is no shank plate or there is a really bad one. Neither is good!
Value: Budget and value might seem like the same thing but they are not. The budget is how much money you’re willing to spend. Value is how good of shoes you’re getting for the price. Remember that just because a shoe is more expensive, it doesn’t mean that it is better. Pay more attention to the features and reviews that a shoe gets, rather than the price to find a good value.