The Best Shoes for Ankle Support

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Having proper ankle support can make or break your run, walk or hike and can protect you from painful injuries that take months of recovery. Many of our picks for the best shoes for ankle support double as some of the most comfortable running shoes, which means you’ll be able to enjoy activities from urban jogs to blazing the trails.

In this roundup, we’re focusing on minimizing ankle pain and considering factors like material quality, traction, support, fit and price. We also offer a guide for how you can choose the best shoes for ankle support for your specific needs.

Our Picks for the Best Shoes for Ankle Support:

• Best Shoes for Ankle and Arch Support: NoBull Trainer+
• Best Women’s Shoes for Ankle Support: Lululemon Blisfeel 2
• Best Men's Shoes for Ankle Support: Hoka Rincon 3
• Best Casual Shoe for Ankle Support: adidas Grand Court 2.0 
• Best Athletic Shoes for Ankle Support: NoBull Trainer+
• Best Running Shoes for Ankle Support: Kuru Flux
• Best High Top Shoes for Ankle Support: NoBull High-Top Trainers
• Best Distance Running Shoes for Ankle Support: Hoka Clifton 9
• Best Walking Shoes for Ankle Support: Allbirds Tree Dasher 2
• Best Trail Running Shoes for Ankle Support: adidas Terrex Trailrider
• Best Basketball Shoes for Ankle Support: Nike Air Jordan XXXVVIII
• Best Hiking Shoes for Ankle Support: adidas Terrex AX4 Mid Gore-Tex Hiking Shoes

Best Shoes for Ankle and Arch Support: NoBull Trainer+ Men’s

Key features:

• Weight per shoe: 12.7 ounces
• Cushioning: EVA midsole cushioning
• Support: High
• Materials: SuperFabric, mesh, rubber, microsuede
• Size range: Men’s 8–18, women’s 5–11
• Price: $139

If you struggle to get enough arch support, the NoBull Trainer+ has a molded design and supportive heel counter that aids in both arch and ankle support. The seamless SuperFabric upper hugs your whole foot, providing ankle stability while enhancing movement.

There is a thick EVA midsole with an increased height, making for a better energy return. The dimensions of the rubber outsole are expanded to provide more traction for a greater surface area. It also has a herringbone pattern with deep grooves to provide traction on multiple surface types.

The heel and collar padding provides additional support and protects your feet just below the ankle. NoBull’s Trainer+ comes in high-top and low-top options, which is ideal for those who prefer ankle coverage.

Related Post: The Best Arch Support Shoes for Walking, Running and Flat Feet

Pros:

• Extra padding to support the heel
• Seamless upper is a durable abrasion-resistant material
• High-top options available
• Wide variety of sizes, colors and patterns to choose from

Cons:

• Expensive
• No wide size options

Best Women’s Shoes for Ankle Support: Lululemon Blissfeel 2

Key Features:

• Weight per shoe: 9.7 ounces
• Cushioning: EVA foam midsole
• Support: High
• Materials: Seamless mesh upper, rubber outsole, 3D-molded midfoot
• Size range: Women’s 5–12
• Price: $128

The Lululemon Blissfeel 2 is a running shoe designed specifically for women’s feet. This shoe has a seamless mesh upper that is reinforced with a 3D-molded midfoot support that stabilizes your foot as you stride. The EVA foam midsole provides a springy energy return and is reinforced by a soft-blown rubber forefoot and sturdy rubber hell support to absorb impact and keep your foot stabilized throughout your run.

The Blissfeel 2 has almost 400 reviews on Lululemon’s website with a 4.2/5 star rating. Many of these reviews praise the Blissfeel 2 for its ankle support. One reviewer on Lululemon’s site, Accident Prone Runner, says that they used to roll their ankles on a monthly basis before purchasing this shoe. They also say, “The ankle-stabilizing cuff around the ankle is so comfortable; it's like having your ankles cradled by clouds. No more unexpected ankle acrobatics for me!”

Pros:

• Strong support in the ankle cuff, midsole, heel and forefoot
• Seamless mesh upper and EVA cushion allow your foot to sit comfortably
• 10 color options that allow you to wear the shoes in casual settings
• Almost all reviewers say this shoe fits true to size

Cons:

• Some of the more popular color options are only available in large sizes
• Requires hand-washing
• Reviewers say it does not fit well for wide feet

Best Men's Shoes for Ankle Support: Hoka Rincon 3

Key Features:

• Weight per shoe: 7.7 ounces
• Cushioning: Compression-molded foam cushioning
• Support: Neutral
• Materials: Foam, rubber, mesh
• Size range: Men’s 7–16
• Price: $99.99

Hoka is known for its durable, supremely comfortable shoes, and the Rincon 3 is one of the best ankle support shoes, thanks to its symmetrical cushion-to-weight ratio. The more cushioning a shoe has, the more shock absorption in each step. The Rincon 3’s early stage meta-rocker means that you should have a smoother running or walking motion and a faster transition from heel to forefoot.

A mesh upper keeps the shoe breathable for even the sweatiest of runs, and the compression-molded foam midsole keeps it lightweight. According to one reviewer on the Hoka website, “Even on my longer runs (6–10 miles), they remain super breathable and the outsole seems to be more durable and grippy.”

The redesign of Hoku’s Rincon also features an asymmetrical tongue and thinner pull tab. For the eco-friendly runner, the Rincon 3 is made from entirely vegan and recycled materials.

Pros:

• Made from vegan and recycled materials
• Breathable and well-cushioned
• Many colorways

Cons:

• Angular tongue was too firm for some
• Narrow for some feet

Best Casual Shoe for Ankle Support: adidas Grand Court 2.0

Key Features:

• Weight per shoe: Not listed
• Cushioning: Cloudfoam Comfort cushioning
• Support: Medium
• Material: Leather upper, rubber outsole, 50 percent recycled content
• Size range: Men’s 6.5–14
• Price: $70

If you’re looking for a shoe with ankle support you can dress up or down, the adidas Grand Court 2.0 is it. This shoe is designed with an ultra-classic adidas look top to bottom. On every tongue of the Grand Court 2.0, you’ll find the the classic adidas font lettering, and of course, adidas’s signature three stripes flank each side. Looking for a sportier shoe? Check out our review of the adidas Ultaboost Light.

To help keep your feet and ankles comfy through days at the office or during travel, the shoes’ interior uses the brand’s Cloudfoam Comfort cushioning. More than 600 reviews on adidas’ website award the shoes 4.8 out of 5 stars, and praise for the shoes coziness and true-to-fit sizing are a common refrain. “It’s definitely more comfortable than old models and has a very slick design,” writes one buyer.

We also like that these are one of adidas’ most affordable shoe models, with a price tag of just $70. In keeping with the minimalist, classic design you can only buy the shoe in subdued colors, although there’s lots of variations—nine total—if you’re particular about your neutrals.

Pros:

• Cloudfoam Comfort cushioning insole
• Timeless design
• Upper made of 50 percent recycled materials

Cons:

• Lack of more bold color options
• No wide sizing available

Best Athletic Shoes for Ankle Support: NoBull Trainer+ Men’s

Key Features:

• Weight per shoe: 12.7 ounces
• Cushioning: EVA midsole cushioning
• Support: High
• Materials: SuperFabric, mesh, rubber, microsuede
• Size range: Men’s 8-18, women’s 5-11
• Price: $139

When it comes to athletic shoes, keeping your ankles in place is key whether you’re in the gym or running errands. The NoBull Trainer+ is a high-quality shoe that offers support from the midfoot to the heel, which is why we consider it to be one of the best athletic shoes for ankle support.

Like the regular NoBull Trainer, the Trainer + has a breathable mesh upper with SuperFabric guard plates that protect the integrity while remaining flexible during activity. There is a toe bumper for additional traction and the outsole has lateral and medial guards.

If you’re a weightlifter, you’ll likely appreciate that the Trainer+ has a stable, reinforced heel that gives you a good base for lifting. For added stability, the shoelace system incorporates internal webbing designed to improve the fit and keep your foot in place. One NoBull reviewer says, “AMAZINGLY stable for weightlifting and training, have never been able to stand so firmly and stable while squatting with quite a bit of weight.”

Pros:

• Very durable and secure
• Supportive outsole
• Good training shoed midsole
• Comes in a variety of patterns and colors

Cons:

• Expensive
• Not suitable for running

Best Running Shoes for Ankle Support: Kuru Flux

Key Features:

• Weight per shoe: 9.3 ounces
• Cushioning: KuruCloud
• Support: High
• Materials: Supercritical EVA foam, NovaKnit, rubber
• Size range: Men’s 7–13; women’s 6–11
• Price: $150

Before you fuel up with pre-workout or your favorite running supplement, you’ll want to make sure you have the right shoes to support your ankle. The Kuru Flux has two design features that set it apart from other running shoes in the way it can offer support: the KuruCloud and KuruSole.

The KuruSole is a patented heel design that tightens around your heels and stiffens the midsole support with each step. This allows your foot to remain as stable and supported as possible from the time you strike the ground until you finish your stride. The KuruCloud is a patented midsole that uses supercritical EVA foam—a type of EVA that is more durable and gives you more spring in your step, according to Kuru. If you’re a runner who’s looking for a shoe to give you as much ankle support as possible, Kuru Flux is worth a try.

Related Post: The Best Nike Running Shoes to Help You Run in Comfort and Style

Pros:

• Patented designs that increase support for the ankle, heel and midsole
• Made from durable materials
• Lightweight compared to other shoes that offer this much support
• Wide toe box that lets your toes spread for comfort and balance

Cons:

• Some of the colors are only available for a limited time
• More expensive than other running shoes

Best High Top Shoes for Ankle Support: NoBull High-Top Trainers

Key Features:

• Weight per shoe: 10 ounces
• Cushioning: EVA midsole cushioning
• Support: High
• Material: SuperFabric, mesh, rubber, microsuede
• Size range: Men’s 8-16, women’s 5-11
• Price: $149

High tops are known for reducing the stress on your ankles, resulting in less ankle sprains. NoBull has some of the best performance trainers and best weightlifting shoes, and its newest addition are these high tops.

The increased EVA midsole height gives cushioning and arch support, and the lace system has internal webbing to keep your ankles from moving around. These shoes are made with a SuperFabric upper that’s both durable and breathable, and the outsole has a herringbone tread pattern that provides traction on a variety of surfaces, so you can even hike in these.

Pros:

• High-top for added ankle support
• Durable for weightlifting
• Molded, anatomical sockliner
• Reflective logo

Cons:

• Expensive
• Can be difficult to put on
• Some users said the soles rubbed raw after a few years of use
• Not suitable for running

Best Distance Running Shoes for Ankle Support: Hoka Clifton 9

Key Features:

• Weight per shoe: 8.7 ounces
• Cushioning: Compression molded EVA foam midsole
• Support: Neutral
• Material: Foam, rubber outsole, recycled mesh, recycled polyester laces
• Size range: Men’s 7–16, women’s 5–12
• Price: $145

If you’re lacing up for your next long-distance run, these Hoka Clifton 9s are an excellent choice. Hoka added three millimeters in stack height with a responsive foam sole to its ninth edition, making these some of the best shoes for running.

The heel is more cushioned than previous editions, which protects from potential ankle injuries. The heel panel is also reflective, making you visible when you go on an after-hours jog. Its early-stage meta-rocker creates a smooth running motion and a faster transition from the heel to the forefoot for seamless steps.

The Clifton 9 also earned the American Podiatric Medical Association Seal of Acceptance. This award recognizes products that have been found beneficial to foot health. Each product is reviewed by a group of podiatrists to ensure this claim to be true. To top it off, Hoka 9s are made from vegan and recycled materials for those eco-conscious runners.

Related Post: The 10 Best Long-Distance Running Shoes to Try

Pros:

• Responsive and well-cushioned sole
• APMA Seal of Acceptance for a product that’s beneficial to foot health
• Vegan and made with recycled content mesh and polyester laces
• Attractive colorway to choose from

Cons:

• Some reviewers say the cushion is too soft compared to older versions
• Expensive

Best Walking Shoes for Ankle Support: Allbirds Tree Dasher 2

Key Features:

• Weight per shoe: 10 ounces
• Cushioning: SweetFoam EVA midsole
• Support: Medium
• Materials: Eucalyptus fiber, FSC-certified natural rubber, SweetFoam EVA, castor oil-based insole
• Size range: Men’s 8–14; women’s 5–11 (whole sizes only)
• Price: $135

Allbirds Tree Dasher 2s are made with a supportive design that keeps your heel from absorbing too much impact while also stabilizing the ankle. The key features that make this possible are the angular heel and the reinforced ankle collar. Even with these extra supportive features, the Tree Dasher 2s are just as breathable and comfortable as we’ve come to expect from Allbirds shoes.

The upper on this shoe is made from eucalyptus fiber mesh, and it has no seams which allows the midsole to flex while the heel and ankle are locked into place. The Tree Dasher 2 combines comfort and support that make it a great choice for walking, and the color options give you the versatility to wear it as a casual shoe if you’re not walking for exercise.

Related Post: Find Pain Relief With the Best Shoes for Plantar Fasciitis

Pros:

• Supportive, reinforced ankle collar
• Made from very breathable materials
• Stylish compared to other walking shoes with this level of support
• Eight color options for the men’s shoe and 11 color options for women’s

Cons:

• Heavier than other walking shoes
• Some reviewers with narrow feet say the flexible midsole causes their feet to slip inside the shoe

Best Trail Running Shoes for Ankle Support: adidas Terrex Trailrider

Key Features:

• Weight per shoe: 11 ounces
• Cushioning: Lightstrike cushioning
• Support: High
• Material: Rubber, synthetic fiber with TPU, 50 percent recycled content
• Size range: Men’s 6-15, women’s 5-11
• Price: $96

If you need ankle support and prefer dirt over pavement, you need a trail running shoe that has good overall support and cushioning, and the adidas Terrex Trailrider fits that bill. With “Lightstrike cushioning,” these shoes have a light midsole designed for movement and responsiveness. As you traverse uneven ground, you shouldn’t have to worry about rolling your ankles thanks to a synthetic upper with a thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) rock protection layer in the midsole and a stable Continental Rubber tread. The rubber outsole also makes these shoes ideal for extra-muddy trails and puddles.

Pros:

• Lightweight for a trail runner
• Continental Rubber outsole keeps feet dry during wet conditions
• TPU rock protection plate

Cons:

• Limited colorway
• Some reviewers mentioned the elastane tongue is uncomfortable on the tops of their feet

Best Basketball Shoes for Ankle Support: Nike Air Jordan XXXVIII

Key Features:

• Weight per shoe: 12.7 ounces
• Cushioning: Formula 23 foam
• Support: High
• Material: Foam, fabric, plastic
• Size range: Men’s 3.5–18, women’s 5–19.5
• Price: $200

When you’re ready to hit the court, the Nike Air Jordan XXXVIIIs are some of the best basketball shoes for ankle protection. These shoes were created with performance in mind, with air units to get you extra lift off the ground and Jordan brand’s signature Formula 23 foam to cushion your impact on the way down.

Specifically designed to represent a taped-up ankle, the strong, lightweight upper is made from leno-weave fabric and strong plastic ribbon to hold you in tight and protect your ankle from moving. The forefoot of these basketball shoes has double-stacked air that contributes to a higher energy return response and provides decent arch support.

Related Post: The Best Nike Running Shoes to Help You Run in Comfort and Style

Pros:

• Formula 23 cushion
• Made for performance and stability
• Lightweight upper material mimics a taped-up ankle—further preventing injury
• Clean design and colorway

Cons:

• Can run small and narrow; reviewers recommend ordering up half a size
• Not meant for all-day wear

Best Hiking Shoes for Ankle Support: adidas Terrex AX4 Mid Gore-Tex Hiking Shoes

Key Features:

• Weight per shoe: 12–15 ounces
• Cushioning: EVA midsole
• Support: High
• Material: Mesh, GORE-TEX, rubber, 50 percent recycled content
• Size range: Men’s 6–15, women’s 5–11
• Price: $140

Hiking over rugged terrain requires stability, and these adidas AX4s keep your ankles supported with a cushioned ankle cuff. Many reviewers note the lightweight feel of the shoes, which is a refreshing change of pace for a hiking shoe. The lightweight, yet supportive, feel lends the AX4s to both lighter hikes and more technical trails.

The waterproof Gore-Tex is breathable and ensures your puddle-slogging stays on the outside. We love the EVA midsole cushioning that adds comfort—similar to what you might find in a running shoe. No matter the trail, the Continental Rubber outsole is designed to support you across all kinds of terrains. The rubber grip and tread should keep each step firmly planted, so your feet don’t slip. As an added benefit, these hiking shoes are made from 50 percent recycled materials. While we think these hiking boots are perfect for long terrains, the adidas Terrex Free Hiker Gore-Tex 2.0 might be the better choice for those wanting a little more cushion.

Related Post: The Best Hiking Shoes to Keep You Comfortable While Navigating the Trails

Pros:

• Waterproof Gore-Tex
• Breathable mesh upper
• Padded ankle cuff
• Rubber outsole

Cons:

• Limited colorways
• Limited width options

How to Choose the Best Shoes for Ankle Support for You

Height

Heel-to-toe drop (aka the difference between the shoe’s height at the heel and the toe) is measured in millimeters, and, depending on its height, can take pressure off your ankles and calves. A traditional running shoe has a heel drop between 8 and 10 millimeters. A zero-drop shoe relies on an even amount of cushioning under the heels and toes, but won’t offer the same amount of ankle support. The best ankle support shoes will have a higher heel drop. The lower the heel drop, the more your Achilles tendon will have to work, putting extra strain on the back of your ankle.

Traction

Rubber outsoles offer the traction needed to keep your feet from rolling and your ankles from moving. The deeper the tread, the more traction you’ll have. When choosing the best ankle support shoes, consider the type of activity you plan on doing and the amount of traction you may need. For example, a hiking shoe will require more traction than a casual walking shoe.

Support

Ample cushioning supports your entire foot and absorbs the shock of your feet hitting pavement while running, doing HIIT moves or trail running. You’ll want a sturdy sole with medium thickness so your whole foot—from heel to toe—is supported. High top shoes can also add extra ankle support, though they may be better suited for weight training, CrossFit and hiking than running or day-to-day use. You may also want to consider replacing the insoles with your own custom orthotics for added support.

Related Post: The Best Orthopedic Shoes

Fit

Make sure you have the proper fit, with at least a half-inch of space between your big toe and the tip of the shoe. Also consider if you have wide or narrow feet, and adjust your sizing accordingly so you’re not putting unnecessary stress on your feet and ankles. If you notice your ankles are getting a beating, switch up your shoes before you cause an injury.

Price

Finding good shoes with the proper ankle support can be an investment, but it doesn’t have to break the bank. Most of the shoes listed in this roundup range from about $100-$200. When it comes to proper support, you don’t want to skimp on quality, which may mean you’ll end up paying a little more for your shoes, but the price is well worth it to support your ankles and feet in every activity.

How We Chose The Best Shoes For Ankle Support

When choosing the best ankle support shoes for your fitness activity, we considered factors like structural support, quality of materials, durability, customer reviews and price. Being foot-conscious is extra important considering that up to 40 percent of ankle sprains go on to develop chronic symptoms. These injuries could keep you off your feet for longer than you’d probably like, especially if you already consider yourself an active person.

Shoes for Ankle Support FAQs

Does walking help weak ankles?

Yes, walking and physical exercise can improve weak ankles, but more specifically, practicing your balance will help strengthen the muscles around your ankles. Consider exercises like standing calf raises, walking up and down hills or walking on a treadmill at an incline or decline. Even small movements, like toe raises (especially with ankle weights), can strengthen your ankles. Over time, these exercises will help strengthen your ankles and the surrounding muscles. Wearing an ankle brace can also help protect weak ankles.

What kinds of shoes have the best ankle support?

The best ankle support shoes will come with ample cushioning, stability and support from your plantar fascia and heel to the delicate muscles around your ankles. You’ll also want to consider how much the shoe controls motion, depending on your activity. Running requires more range of motion than weight training, for example.

Does everyone need shoes with good ankle support?

As ankle injuries are relatively common, it’s a good idea to invest in a shoe with good ankle support so you don’t sprain your ankle or worse, requiring months of recovery. This is especially important if you already struggle with weak ankles or other problems, like plantar fasciitis, that can impact your ankles and the surrounding areas of your foot.

How do I protect my ankles when running and walking?

Make sure you have supportive shoes that offer cushioned insoles and stability. Consider the type of activity you’re doing. For example, don’t try running in high-top trainers or shoes meant for hiking. Also consider lacing your shoes differently to provide more ankle support; known as the “lace lock,” you lace the second-to-last eyelet to come out on the inside of the shoe, creating a loop between the last two eyelets. Cross your laces and insert them through the loop you created, and then tie your shoes normally. This simple technique can help provide greater stability and reduce excessive movement. Some runners may also benefit from investing in compression socks that can aid in your performance and recovery. You may also consider wearing an ankle brace for extra protection.

Final Thoughts

Finding the best ankle support shoes can take some trial and error, but with some testing, you should be able to find shoes that fit your lifestyle and needs. Look for cushioning, stability and motion control, and also factor in your personal comfort preferences. If you have specific concerns about weak ankles or have had ankle surgery, we recommend consulting your podiatrist for the best fit.

Prices are accurate and items in stock as of publish time.