If you have weak or injured ankles or deal with ankle pain, choosing a pair of shoes with extra ankle support is essential to keep you comfortable and confident during exercise. To find the best ankle support shoes on the market, we began by interviewing experts—two foot and ankle orthopedic surgeons—for advice on key features to look for. Then, we tested over 130 pairs of shoes in the Verywell Testing Lab and at home to find ones that provide motion control, arch support, and grippy traction for optimal stability. We wear-tested walking, running, and hiking shoes and prioritized options that provide additional lateral support without feeling bulky and still allowing our feet to move in a natural way. We thoroughly examined each shoe’s fit, comfort, responsiveness, stability, cushioning, and value—scoring each one based on these key factors. A board-certified clinical specialist in orthopedic physical therapy and an athletic trainer from our Review Board also assessed this article for accuracy. The best way to protect your ankles from pain and injury is to wear supportive shoes and work on strengthening the muscles surrounding your ankle by performing certain exercises—like standing or seated calf raises and lower leg resistance band exercises, says our certified running coach. Another great practice is to try balancing on one foot for 30 to 60 seconds, alternating feet for five minutes—you can do this exercise anywhere, anytime to build up ankle strength. Before any activity, you should always consider doing ankle warmup exercises. Our Top Picks Best Women’s Overall: Best Men’s Overall: Best Women’s Budget: Best Men’s Budget: Best for Distance Running: Best for Walking: Best for Flat Feet: Best for Trail Running: Best for Plantar Fasciitis: Best for Hiking: In This Article Testing By the Numbers Our Picks We Also Tested Where We Stand What to Look for How We Tested Our Experts Frequently Asked Questions Why Trust Verywell Fit 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 Weight: 8.9 ounces | Materials: Recycled polyester, foam midsole, rubber outsole | Cushioning: Moderate | Closure: Lace-up | Drop: 5 millimeters | Our Overall Rating: 4.7/5 Best for women who need a stable, comfortable shoe for running, walking, and everyday wear. On’s Cloudswift 3 delivers exceptional support and comfort, with a versatile design that’s suitable for all activity types. During testing, we could tell right away that this shoe offers extra protection for unstable ankles. With a sock-like design, the tongue and collar hug the ankle for a secure, supportive fit. Our feet and ankles stayed safely in place on a variety of terrains. We also were impressed with the shoe’s responsive cushioning, which propelled us forward and provided excellent impact protection. Plus, the rubber outsole delivers grippy traction, even when we wore the shoes on wet or slick surfaces. The updated upper combines foot-hugging support and comfort with a sleek, modern silhouette that make us want to wear these shoes for both fitness and casual wear. Also available in men’s sizes at Amazon, On Running, and Dick’s Our Ratings Fit 4.5/5 Cushioning 5/5 Comfort 5/5 Responsiveness 5/5 Stability 5/5 Pros Motion control APMA-approved Breathable Cons May feel a little stiff at first Low heel cup Weight: 10.2 ounces | Materials: Partially recycled mesh upper, foam midsole, rubber outsole | Cushioning: Moderate | Closure: Lace-up | Drop: 12 millimeters | Our Overall Rating: 4.8/5 Best for men who need a comfortable, durable shoe with ankle support and stability for exercise and casual wear. With exceptional cushioning, stability, and support, Brooks’ Adrenaline GTS 22 sneakers are ideal for those with weak or injury-prone ankles. They feature the brand’s unique motion control technology that we found limits unwanted movement while also promoting a natural stride and proper foot alignment. During testing, we were impressed by the shoe’s stability and traction on various surfaces—including the treadmill, pavement, and light trails. The soft, plush cushioning is lightweight yet durable. And we noticed that the breathable, stretchy upper provides a snug-yet-comfortable fit that keeps our feet securely in place. We also appreciate that the shoes come in four widths, so you can get a custom-like fit. Plus, these shoes earned the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA) Seal of Acceptance, meaning a panel of podiatrists has determined that they help promote healthy feet. Also available in women’s sizes at Amazon, Brooks, and Dick’s. Our Ratings Cushioning 4/5 Responsiveness 4/5 Stability 5/5 Fit 5/5 Value 4/5 Pros Solid support APMA-approved Excellent traction Cons Gets hot in warm weather Slightly bulky Weight: 10.3 ounces | Materials: Leather upper, foam midsole, rubber outsole | Cushioning: Medium | Closure: Lace-up | Drop: Not listed | Our Overall Rating: 4.5/5 Best for walking and hiking in cool or cold weather on various terrains. Saucony’s Women's Integrity Walker 3 features a durable leather upper, solid comfort, and reliable support—all at a budget-friendly price. Right away, we noticed that the cushioning feels firmer compared to other options we tested, providing exceptional impact protection and ankle stability on various terrains. During testing, we also appreciated the grippy rubber outsole that offers reliable traction on different surfaces, helping to keep us balanced and steady. Plus, the APMA-approved shoe’s plush, form-fitting collar and tongue add to its overall comfort and stability. Also available in men’s sizes at Amazon, Saucony, and Zappos. Our Ratings Cushioning 4.5/5 Responsiveness 4.5/5 Stability 4/5 Fit 4/5 Value 4.5/5 Pros Great shock absorption Excellent traction Versatile for roads or light trails Cons May run narrow Not super sleek looking Weight: 10.5 ounces | Materials: Mesh, synthetic leather upper, foam and gel insole, synthetic outsole | Cushioning: Moderate | Closure: Lace-up | Drop: 10 millimeters | Our Overall Rating: 4.5/5 Best if you need a durable shoe for road running and hiking on moderate trails. Durable and versatile, ASICS’ GEL-VENTURE 8 shoes are rugged enough to handle road running, trail runs, and hiking on moderate trails. The grippy rubber outsole keeps us stable on uneven and wet surfaces, while the gel-cushioned midsole offers responsiveness and comfort. Plus, the mesh upper is reinforced with abrasion-resistant overlays—providing a snug and protective fit. The shoe comes with a sock liner that’s designed to shape to your foot, but it’s also removable if you wear orthotics. We love that the reverse-traction lugs offer even more protection and traction, without having to go over budget. Also available in women’s sizes at Amazon, ASICS, and Dick’s. Our Ratings Fit 5/5 Comfort 5/5 Responsiveness 5/5 Stability 5/5 Pros Lightweight but supportive Plush cushioning APMA-approved Cons We recommend wearing them with high socks to prevent blisters Weight: 7.3 ounces | Materials: Recycled mesh upper, foam midsole, rubber outsole | Cushioning: Soft but responsive | Closure: Lace-up | Drop: 5 millimeters | Our Overall Rating: 4.2/5 Best for distance runners who need a lightweight shoe with extra ankle support. Distance runners need a lightweight, well-cushioned, durable shoe for hours of support and comfort—like HOKA’s Clifton 9, one of our favorite HOKA running shoes. During testing, we immediately liked the soft, step-in feel and foot-hugging comfort. The springy midsole feels extra responsive and allows for smooth transitions. And despite the plush cushioning and ample support, the shoes are surprisingly lightweight. The rubber outsole helps with traction and impact protection, while the padded tongue and collar offer even more support and comfort. And we love that the tall heel tab makes getting the shoe on and off much easier. Plus, the APMA-approved shoe’s toe box offers plenty of room for your toes and forefoot to spread out, which keeps us steady and balanced. Also available in men’s sizes at Amazon, HOKA, and Zappos. Our Ratings Fit 5/5 Comfort 5/5 Responsiveness 5/5 Stability 4/5 Pros Excellent cushioning and support Wide, spacious toe box Available in three widths Cons Feels somewhat heavy Slightly bulky Weight: 11.3 ounces | Materials: Suede leather and synthetic mesh upper, foam and polyurethane midsole, rubber outsole | Cushioning: Soft but responsive | Closure: Lace-up | Drop: 12 millimeters | Our Overall Rating: 4.3/5 Best for avid walkers who need extra support and stability in the ankle area. New Balance’s 990v5 shoes feature a dual-density foam midsole that keeps us steady and balanced on various surfaces. Plus, the shoe’s padded tongue and collar provide more comfort and stability, especially around the ankle. And for even more support, we love that the shoes feature a blown rubber outsole that feels grippy and durable. We also find the cushioning to be soft yet responsive, helping to propel our strides. The upper is mesh and suede, which feels breathable and looks stylish. And we love that the spacious toe box allows toes to spread out, which also helps with balance. You can even fit custom-made orthotics—a huge plus for those with foot injuries and issues. Also available in women’s sizes at Amazon, Dick’s, and Walmart. Our Ratings Fit 5/5 Cushioning/Knee Protection 5/5 Comfort 5/5 Responsiveness 5/5 Stability 5/5 Pros APMA-approved Excellent cushioning Breathable design Cons May run narrow Not as comfortable as other options Weight: 9.1 ounces | Materials: Partially recycled engineered air mesh upper, foam midsole, rubber outsole | Cushioning: Maximum | Closure: Lace-up | Drop: 10 millimeters | Our Overall Rating: 5/5 Best if you have flat feet and need motion control shoes that limit pronation. If you have flat feet or fallen arches, wearing a running shoe with motion control that limits excessive pronation (when the ankle rolls downward and inward an excessive amount as you step) can help you avoid discomfort and injury. One of our favorite shoes for flat feet, Brooks’ Glycerin GTS 20 is designed with the brand’s signature motion control technology that helps control pronation and prevent ankle rolling. During testing, we immediately noticed the extra support—especially in the ankle and arch areas—without any unwanted weight or stiffness. We were also impressed with the shoe’s plush cushioning, which provides excellent shock absorption. Plus, the breathable mesh upper adjusts to your foot’s unique shape for a secure, custom-like fit. You can also fit custom orthotics in these APMA-approved motion control shoes. Also available in men’s sizes at Amazon, Brooks, and Dick’s. Our Ratings Fit 4/5 Cushioning/Knee Protection 4.5/5 Comfort 4.3/5 Responsiveness 5/5 Stability 5/5 Pros Ankle collar offers extra protection Versatile for trails or roads Waterproof Cons Not suitable for very technical terrain May run slightly small Weight: 8 ounces | Materials: Engineered mesh upper, foam midsole, rubber outsole | Cushioning: Lightweight and responsive | Closure: Lace-up | Drop: 8.5 millimeters | Our Overall Rating: 4.5/5 Best if you run on the road or moderate trails in various weather conditions. One of our favorite trail running shoes, Nike’s Pegasus Trail 4 GORE-TEX helps limit excess movement and prevent ankle rolling on wet, uneven terrains. During test runs in various conditions, we were impressed with the durable, waterproof upper that provides protection from the elements without causing our feet to overheat. Meanwhile, the full-length foam cushioning offers exceptional support and springy responsiveness. We found that the durable rubber outsole feels secure and grippy on roads and light trails, even in wet conditions. Plus, the toe box offers plenty of room for toes to splay, which helps with maintaining balance and stability on trails. Also available in men’s sizes at Amazon, Nike, and Dick’s. “These shoes have made trail running so enjoyable, and there isn't one aspect of the shoe that I would change.”—Kristin Cleveland, Verywell Fit product tester Our Ratings Fit 5/5 Comfort 5/5 Responsiveness 3.8/5 Stability 5/5 Pros Maximum cushioning Very stable and durable APMA-approved Cons Feels somewhat heavy Not as springy as other options Weight: 8.9 ounces | Materials: Partially recycled mesh upper, foam midsole, rubber outsole | Cushioning: Maximum | Closure: Lace-up | Drop: 4 millimeters | Our Overall Rating: 4.7/5 Best if you have foot pain or plantar fasciitis and need a comfy, cushioned shoe for walking, running, and daily wear. HOKA’s Bondi 8 delivers a comfy, stable ride that’s ideal for those who regularly experience foot pain, such as plantar fasciitis. The APMA-approved shoe’s plush yet supportive cushioning provides stellar shock absorption, which reduces the load on your plantar fascia. Plus, there's extra cushioning in the heel that offers even more ankle protection. During wear tests, we noticed the snug, secure fit right away. We appreciate the shoe's pillowy tongue and memory foam collar, which enhance its overall comfort and support. The breathable mesh upper is protective, while the durable rubber outsole provides grippy traction on various surfaces. One of our favorite shoes for plantar fasciitis, you can’t go wrong with this pick. Also available in men’s sizes at Amazon, HOKA, and REI. Our Ratings Comfort 4.5/5 Fit 5/5 Performance 4.5/5 Durability 4/5 Value 5/5 Pros Mid height provides good ankle support Excellent traction Waterproof Cons Laces are not easy to tie Pricier than other options Weight: 13 ounces | Materials: Recycled polyester mesh upper, foam midsole, rubber outsole | Cushioning: Medium | Closure: Lace-up | Drop: Not listed | Our Overall Rating: 4.6/5 Best for hikers who need extra ankle support on and off the trail. Arc’teryx’s Aerios Mid GTX Shoes are durable, supportive, and protective for hiking on- and off-road. The mid-cut height helps support the ankles, while the integrated support shank provides torsional stability (meaning stability in the midfoot of the shoe) to keep you balanced and stable on uneven surfaces.In fact, we think it's one of the best hiking shoes out there. During test hikes, our feet and ankles felt well-supported and protected on various terrains. And the waterproof membrane kept our feet dry and comfortable, without causing any overheating or excess sweating. Plus, we found that the durable rubber outsole provides exceptional traction—adding to the shoe’s overall safety. Also available in women’s sizes at Amazon, Arc’teryx, and Zappos. We tested over 130 pairs of sneakers, but only ended up including 10 pairs in our final list of recommendations. Although these shoes might be suitable for certain activities, they ultimately fell a bit short in terms of ankle support. After testing over 130 pairs of sneakers, we found that the 10 on this list offer enough support for weak, painful, or injured ankles. Our favorite options for men and women—Brooks’ Adrenaline GTS 22 and On’s Cloudswift 3—deliver optimal comfort, stability, and durability. We are constantly testing sneakers and we frequently update this list with the most relevant, reliable information and recommendations. To find the best shoes for those with weak, painful, or injured ankles, we sifted through all of the shoes we’ve wear-tested—over 130 pairs—to find ones that offer additional ankle support. When we test shoes, we evaluate each option based on the following criteria: Ankle support helps protect you from painful foot injuries that often require months of recovery, physical therapy, and—in some cases—even surgery. Wearing a supportive shoe while walking or running can not only reduce the likelihood of injury should a misstep occur, but also aid in the mechanics of these activities, says Dr. Kaplan. Some sneakers have an extra eyelet at the top that you can use for additional ankle support. If not, lace your shoes all the way up through the top eyelets and tie a tight double-knot to secure the laces, ensuring a snug fit around the ankle. Yes, a lack of ankle support can lead to injuries. Approximately 16% to 40% of all sports injuries are related to the ankle, and this type of injury can mean a longer absence from physical activity than other types of injuries. Ankle support shoes, ankle braces, and other ankle support products can help. As a running coach, personal trainer, and avid runner, Christine Luff has personally experienced ankle pain and coached athletes who need good ankle support. She recommends replacing shoes regularly, since even shoes that are supportive when new eventually lose their firmness, cushioning, and effectiveness. How to Strengthen Weak Ankles
Ankle Support Shoe Testing By the Numbers
Key Specs:
Who They’re For
Why We Love Them
Potential Flaws
Best Men’s Overall
Brooks Adrenaline GTS 22
Key Specs:
Who They’re For
Why We Love Them
Potential Flaws
Best Women’s Budget
Saucony Integrity Walker 3
Key Specs:
Who They’re For
Why We Love Them
Potential Flaws
Best Men’s Budget
Asics Gel-Venture 8
Key Specs:
Who They’re For
Why We Love Them
Potential Flaws
Best for Distance Running
Hoka Clifton 9
Key Specs:
Who They’re For
Why We Love Them
Potential Flaws
Best for Walking
New Balance 990v5
Key Specs:
Who They’re For
Why We Love Them
Potential Flaws
Best for Flat Feet
Brooks Women's Glycerin GTS 20
Key Specs:
Who They’re For
Why We Love Them
Potential Flaws
Best for Trail Running
Nike Pegasus Trail 4 GORE-TEX
Key Specs:
Who They’re For
Why We Love Them
Potential Flaws
Most Valuable Insight
Best for Plantar Fasciitis
Hoka Bondi 8
Key Specs:
Who They’re For
Why We Love Them
Potential Flaws
Best for Hiking
Arc'teryx Aerios FL 2 Mid GTX Hiking Shoe
Key Specs:
Who They’re For
Why We Love them
Potential Flaws
Ankle Support Shoes We Also Tested
Where We Stand
What to Look for in Shoes for Ankle Support
How We Tested the Best Shoes for Ankle Support
Our Experts
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is ankle support important?
What is the best way to tie shoes for ankle support?
Can a lack of ankle support lead to injuries?
Why Trust Verywell Fit
FAQs
What is the best ankle support for weak ankles? ›
Ultra CTS. If you have extreme chronic ankle instability along with associated weight bearing pain then the Ultra CTS is the best brace for you. The Ultra CTS provides maximum stabilization to your lower leg and ankle by helping to restrict excessive ankle turning or rolling and twisting that causes ankle instability.
What is the best support for chronic ankle instability? ›Protect. If you feel the instability daily through walking or standing, wearing an ankle brace can help support your weak ankles. The Trizone Ankle Sleeve is recommended for daily use. If you are looking to stay active and play sports, we recommend an ankle brace that provides moderate protection.
What to wear for weak ankles? ›Motion Control: Shoes that offer motion control or extra stability features, like Brooks' Adrenaline GTS 22, help to decrease the amount of excessive movement through the foot and ankle—making them a good choice for those with weak ankles.
How do I know if my shoes have good ankle support? ›High-top shoes with collars that extend above the ankle provide increased support and stability. High-top shoes, hiking boots, work boots, and some athletic shoes are all good examples of shoes designed with higher ankle collars for more ankle support.
How do you fix ankle instability? ›There are various treatment options for chronic ankle instability: Conservative treatment is tried first. This involves doing physical therapy (physiotherapy) to strengthen the joint, and possibly wearing an ankle brace or splint to stabilize it. One common physical therapy approach is called neuromuscular training.
How do you strengthen a weak ankle? ›Stand on the floor holding onto chair / kitchen work surface. Lift one leg up so its off the ground. Then perform a single leg calf raise lifting your heel off the floor, hold for 2 seconds at the top of the movement. Slowly lower down to the starting positon.
How long does it take to fix ankle instability? ›If it was a straightforward injury, didn't require an evaluation and you did not have any setbacks, you can expect symptoms to last for 10 to 12 weeks as the ligament heals. Once you've sprained your ankle, it's more susceptible to future injury. An ankle sleeve or lace-up brace can provide added support and stability.
How long does it take for ankle instability to heal? ›A grade 1 sprain can take one to three weeks for recovery, while a grade 2 can take three to six weeks, and a grade 3 or a high ankle sprain recovery can last several months.
Can you get disability for chronic ankle instability? ›The VA may require documentation that shows the range of motion of the ankle. This documentation may include medical records, notes from a medical practitioner, or physical evidence like x-ray images. In many cases, ankle instability itself would receive a rating of between 0 and 20% on the rating schedule.
What are weak ankles a symptom of? ›Examples include sprains, strains, fractures, and dislocations. Another issue that causes weak ankles is chronic ankle instability, which develops after trauma to the ankle. There are also some health conditions that can cause the ankles to get weak. Diabetes and osteoarthritis are the most common ones.
What supplements are good for weak ankles? ›
Vitamin D or calcium supplements are an option for those with special diets – such as vegans – or anyone who's already been diagnosed with low bone density. Our feet and ankles can thrive down to their very bones if we choose to get enough calcium and vitamin D.
How can I make my ankles more stable? ›Standing calf raises
Stand on the edge of a step (if you have one) or an exercise step platform, using a banister or other support structure to keep your balance. Keep your feet hip-width apart. Lift yourself up as high as you can onto your toes and then slowly lower your heels. Repeat the motion 10 times in a row.
- Comfort: Make sure you select the correct size and material for your ankle brace, consider how breathable you want the brace to be.
- Frequency: Depending on your needs, you may wear your ankle brace for a short period of time or all day.
Dr. Geller likes Skechers' Go walk collection of shoes for ankle support because they have a lightweight, cushioned build and stabile insole and outsole. The Go 6 shoes feature Ortholite foam insoles and Air-Cooled Goga mat cushioning to provide comfort and help absorb ground forces at the ankles.
Should I wear ankle support all the time? ›If you have a severe ankle sprain, your doctor or physio may advise that you wear your brace all day during the first few weeks. In all other cases, ankle braces only have to be worn when you do an activity that is likely to twist or roll the ankle.
Are ankle supports good for weak ankles? ›A soft ankle brace can be beneficial in preventing recurring injuries in athletes who have had previous sprains or "loose ankles" from rolling the ankle too many times. Using the brace solely as a preventative measure is not usually recommended, though.
Can ankle weakness be corrected? ›Treatment options aside from surgery may include: Medication to ease pain and swelling symptoms. Ankle brace to prevent the ankle from giving way and to protect the ankle from further sprains. Physical therapy and exercises that help support increased ankle strength and ease of movement.
Which is better ankle support or ankle brace? ›Even so, ankle support can still help by reducing swelling and alleviating pain in the process. An ankle brace will also provide joint extra support as you heal up and keep you from exacerbating your symptoms or re-injuring it.