An Orthopedic Surgeon Says These Are the Best Sneakers for Your Ankles
Whether you're walking to work, going for a run, or taking a quick lunchtime stroll around the block, your sneaker choices matter. Some athletic shoes are designed to keep knee pain away, while others help mitigate any discomfort in your feet. But if your ankles tend to be a weak point for you (and you're not alone: ankle sprains are one of the most-common, recurrent lower-body injuries), we asked some experts to name the best sneakers for ankle support.
Best sneakers for ankle support at a glance
Best women's sneakers for ankle support
- Best for running: Nike React Infinity 3, $113
- Best for walking: New Balance 1540v3, $180
- Best casual: Nike Blazer Mid '77, $85
- Best for cross-training: NOBULL High-Top Trainer, $149
- Most comfortable: Asics GEL-Kayano, $120
- Best water-repellent: Nike Pegasus 39 Shield, $120
Best men's sneakers for ankle support
- Best for road running: Brooks Adrenaline GTS, $120
- Best for trail running: Salomon Speedcross 5 Trail-Running Shoes, $130
- Best wide: New Balance Fresh Foam X 860, $140
- Best for hiking: KEEN Targhee 2 Hiking Boots, $72
- Best cushioning: Hoka Clifton 9, $145
- Gregory Alvarez, DPM, FACFAS, podiatrist at Ankle & Foot Centers of America
- Jerome Enad, MD, board-certified orthopedic surgeon
- Korsh Jafarnia, MD, orthopedic surgeon at Houston Methodist
What to look for in a sneaker for ankle support
If your ankles tend to feel a little wobbly and unstable, you need to look for a few qualities in a shoe, says Korsh Jafarnia, MD, an orthopedic surgeon at the Methodist Center for Orthopedic Surgery and Sports Medicine at Houston Methodist. "When looking for running shoes for an unsteady ankle, you need to find a pair that’s stable on the outside, the lateral side. If a shoe is firm laterally, it’s less likely to allow your foot to collapse to the inside and can help prevent lateral ankle sprains," says Dr. Jafarnia. He adds that arch support is also key for improving ankle stability.
Gregory Alvarez, DPM, FACFAS, a podiatrist with Ankle & Foot Centers of America, adds "Look for shoes that have a wide fit to allow plenty of room in the toe box and help stabilize the foot while walking or running. Additionally, make sure to select sneakers that have soft cushioning materials such as memory foam or latex foam, as well as an inner lining made from breathable materials. Finally, look for shoes with extra stability features such as dual-density midsoles which provide maximum shock absorption when your foot strikes the ground."
Of course, while supportive kicks are a great start, it's always important to get a professional opinion to make sure you're addressing every factor that could be causing ankle pain. "If you have an ankle that is prone to sprains, then you likely have a condition called chronic ankle instability, and it should be treated in a comprehensive manner," says Dr. Jafarnia. So make sure to book some time with an orthopedist—if you can.
Ahead, here are the best sneaker recommendations for ankle support. Each shoe features key criteria for sneakers (stable on the outside and impressive arch support), so you can keep those sprains far, far away.
Dr. Jafarnia recommends this for runners in particular. “The Nike React Infinity Run running shoe is designed to control motion, so you can focus on your running and not worry about injury,” says Dr. Jafarnia. “With a wide base and foot-hugging material, the shoe offers great stability and keeps your foot locked in place.” A bonus? The shoe also ventilates well for hot and sweaty runs and walks.
Sizes: 5–12
Colors: 14
Pros:
- Cushioning around the heel and ankle
- Breathable and flexible support
- Wider bottom of sole
Cons:
- Lower ankle opening
Dr. Jafarnia’s pick for a women’s walking shoes features a double layer of sturdy comfortable foam. “For even more support, the shoes also feature a Rollbar stability post system that’s designed to control rear-foot movement, making them a good choice for over-pronators,” he says. In over-pronation, the ankle rolls downward and inward with each step, increasing the risk of injury in the foot and leg. It also comes in a variety of foot widths, up to XX-wide, to accommodate lots of types of feet.
Sizes: 5–13, narrow, standard, wide, X-wide, and XX-wide
Colors: 2
Pros:
- Performance foam provides stability
- Rear foot movement control
- Lots of foot widths available
Cons:
- Limited colors
“High top shoes with a flexible, rather than rigid upper, provide the best stability,” says Jerome Enad, MD, a board-certified orthopedic surgeon. These vintage-inspired Nikes have a leather and synthetic upper, and come in a bunch of fun, bold colors. Beyond looks through, the shoes are high-top to stabilize and support your ankles as you walk throughout the day.
Sizes: 5–12
Colors: 7
Pros:
- High top for arch support
- Stylish
Cons:
- Not made for intense activity
If you’re more into training vs. cardio, these high-top sneakers, another recommendation from Dr. Enad, have a padded collar and medial guards to keep your feet secure in place, and a breathable upper and tongue. They’re lightweight, and the sockliner is anatomical for a better fit. They come in a hundred different colors and patterns, so you’ll have no problem finding a pair to match your style.
Sizes: 5–11
Colors: 100
Pros:
- Padded high-cut collar
- Mesh base layer
- Medial guards
Cons:
- Not made for cardio
The Asics GEL-Kayano are lightweight sneakers with an external heel counter to keep your foot stable and cushioning in the rear foot for shock absorption. They’re designed for neutral or overpronators, as there’s a stability feature to help prevent feet from rolling inward. The knit upper is breathable, so your feet won’t overheat on a run, and at least 50 percent of the upper is made from recycled materials.”These running shoes are designed with GEL technology cushioning in the heel and forefoot to provide superior comfort and support,” says Dr. Alvarez.
Sizes: 5–13
Colors: 20
Pros:
- Medial support
- Heel counter to keep feet stable
- Cushioning
Cons:
- Some reviewers say they run narrow
For those times where you are walking or running in inclement weather or unpredictable conditions, these Nike sneakers will come in handy. With a water-repellent finish, inner knit material, and an insulated tongue, these shoes will make sure your feet stay dry and warm. They’re lightweight and have a grippy sole, too. Says Dr. Alvarez, “This sneaker is engineered with full-length Zoom Air cushioned midsole that provides excellent shock absorption when running or walking.”
Sizes: 5–12
Colors: 1
Pros:
- Shock absorption
- Water repellent
- Soft cushioning
Cons:
- Not as breathable
“Brooks Adrenaline GTS shoe is a good pick because it has exceptional cushioning, stability, and support, making it ideal for those with weak or injury-prone ankles,” says Dr. Jafarnia. “The Adrenaline features GuideRails, which limit unwanted movement in your ankles while supporting and aligning the foot.” He especially loves these shoes for runners who need ankle support because the high heel-to-toe drop will relieve some pressure from your heels and calves as the miles roll on.
Sizes: 7–15, narrow, medium, wide, extra-wide
Colors: 23
Pros:
- Soft cushioning
- GuideRails for side support
- Soft midsole for smooth transitions
If you’re someone who spends a hefty amount of their walking time on the trails, Dr. Jafarnia has a great rec for you. “Supportive and sturdy, Salomon’s Speedcross 5 trail running shoes provide the protection you need for all types of surfaces and conditions. The shoe’s deep heel cup cradles your heels, ensuring stability through your stride, while the rubber outsole provides dependable grip on uneven surfaces,” he says. They also come in great colorways that you may not find in other trail shoes.
Sizes: 7–14, standard and wide
Colors: 5
Pros:
- Custom foothold for support
- Grippy outsole
- Cushioned midsole
Cons:
- Some reviewers say they run narrow
“These shoes are designed with dual-density midsoles, supportive midfoot shanks, and an Ortholite foam insole for maximum cushioning and stability,” says Dr. Alvarez. They have a supportive medial post to help prevent feet from rolling inward, and the upper has a no-sew construction for comfort. Plus, soft cushioning and a mesh support will make sure your feet are comfortable and cool during all your long walks and runs.
Sizes: 7–16, standard, wide, and x-wide
Colors: 8
Pros:
- Midsole foam cushioning
- Medial post for stability
- Breathable upper
Cons:
- Chunkier sole
When hiking up trails and mountains, the last thin you want is a twisted ankle. These KEEN hiking boots are mid-height to provide ankle support whether you’re walking up or downhill, and they also have heel wraps to keep your feet securely in place. They have cushioned midsoles to help absorb shock, and despite being durable and waterproof, they’re still flexible and breathable for all-day comfort.
Sizes: 7–17, standard and wide
Colors: 9
Pros:
- Mid-height
- Waterproof
- Cushioned
Cons:
- Some reviewers say the soles become unglued
Lightweight and extra cushioned, the Hoka Clifton 9 has responsive foam, a snug fit, and neutral support for stability. The knit upper hugs your foot for a snug fit, and the heel has plush cushioning to help with shock absorption and transitions. It’s also made with recycled materials. Bonus: the shoe has the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA) Seal of Acceptance.
Sizes: 7–17, standard and wide
Colors: 9
Pros:
- Foam midsole
- Soft cushioning
- Breathable upper
Cons:
- Not everyone may like the maximum cushioning
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