The best shoes for ankle support, recommended by experts

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Reebok; Naot

I spent most of my 20s and early 30s running around in 5-inch stilettos — not only without a single pair of flats or sneakers in my shoedrobe, but also having not a single care about what that might do to my feet and ankles down the road.

And then, in 2016, I suffered a bad ankle break — it not only shattered my tibia and fibula and caused me not to walk for two months, but completely changed my outlook on which shoes would help my ankle feel better going forward. Gone were the days of only wearing heels. And that’s where the best shoes for ankle support come in. 

To help you find the best shoes for ankle support, Shop TODAY consulted a range of podiatrists to break down all the features of supportive shoes, what to look for, what to steer clear of and a few options to get your search started. Time to put your best foot — ahem, ankle — forward.

Why is ankle support important? | What to look for | Can a lack of ankle support lead to injury? | Expert-recommended shoes to shop | More shoes to shop | How we chose | Meet the experts

Why is ankle support important?

“Ankle support is important because it prevents reliance on your ankle ligaments, which are not as forgiving as your flexible tendons,” says Dr. Adenike Sonaike, a podiatrist and Medical Director at Baker Street Health in Motion in New Jersey.

“Once a ligament reaches its maximum stress, it can tear and require physical therapy or surgery before it can fully function again," Sonaike continues. "Ankle stability also helps the neighboring joints remain aligned."

Simply put, shoes without proper ankle support can lead to injury. “Ankle support limits excessive ankle movement during physical activities that may require quick movements, which can lead to the potential loss of balance and a fall or injury,” says Dr. Elizabeth Bass Daughtry, a podiatric surgeon. She adds that ankle support can also act as a protective barrier, which helps cushion and protect ankle joints from collision. 

Dr. Suzanne Fuchs, a board-certified podiatrist and sports medicine specialist, agrees. “Ankle support is essential for preventing excessive rolling of the ankle and reducing the risk of sprains and other injuries,” she says.

What to look for in shoes with ankle support

Before you start shopping for a pair of shoes with ankle support, these are the features experts say you’ll want to look for.

• Stability: “Look for sturdy material, as this will reinforce support and not allow the shoe to bend excessively,” says Daughtry. She recommends looking for rubber outsoles, adjustable and solid ankle straps and a level heel height. “Avoid excessive high heels putting strain on the ankle, at risk of a twisting issue,” she says.
• Support: “Good arch support is crucial for maintaining proper foot alignment," says Fuchs. “Shoes with reinforced areas on the inner side help control overpronation, which can reduce strain on the ankle.”
• Size and fit: “Shoes should fit the foot well, and ankle straps should be adjustable to accommodate for any swelling that may occur during the day,” Daughtry advises. She recommends choosing shoes based on your actual foot structure, activities and environment.

• Heel drop: Sonaike cautions against wearing shoes with high drops, as this can cause anterior talofibular ligament (ATFL) injuries to occur, especially when tripping off a curb or over a pothole. “When you wear a shoe with a high drop or higher heel than the forefoot, there is less contact of the ankle’s surfaces, and this increases instability,” she says.

Can a lack of ankle support lead to injury?

Unfortunately, absolutely.

“A lack of ankle support can lead to acute injuries such as lateral ankle ligament sprains, tears and ruptures,” Sonaike says. She cautions that additional stress on the muscles around your ankles can also lead to acute and chronic tendinitis along with decreased ankle mobility.

“Imagine that the ankle is a bridge that your muscles cross to access the foot,” Sonaike says. “With a compromised ankle, you can develop tendon tightness, tendon laxity and failure, and tendon strains when the ankle becomes unstable.”

Best shoes for ankle support, according to podiatrists

Summer support: Teva Women's Original Universal Sandal

Women's Original Universal Sandal

• Women's Original Universal Sandal $44.90 at Amazon
• Women's Original Universal Sandal $54.95 at REI

Product Specs

Sizes: 5–12 | Wide width available? No | Colorways: 12 | Materials: Quick-dry webbing made from recycled plastic | Heel drop: Not listed

Sonaike recommends these Teva sandals specifically for hiking. “They have adjustable ankle straps and a wide enough sole for support,” she says. I’ve owned these sandals for years and can attest not only to their long-wearing durability, but their comfort and ankle support as well — I’ve trekked miles in them around Disneyland with nary a blister or creak in my ankle."

Sonaike goes on to say, "They’re designed in recycled plastic webbing, with multiple adjustable Velcro straps and molded soles with supportive heel cups. The rubber outsoles have outstanding traction, and the quick-dry fabric works for summer activities or being caught in rainstorms."

Courtesy Amanda Fama

Orthotic comfort: Revitalign Orthotic Warm-Lined Suede Boots

Orthotic Warm-Lined Suede Boots

DIFFBOT

• Orthotic Warm-Lined Suede Boots $62.99 at QVC
• Orthotic Warm-Lined Suede Boots $129.95 at Amazon

Product Specs

Sizes: 5–12 | Wide width available? Yes | Colorways: 4 | Materials: Suede | Heel drop: Not listed

Luckily, Daughtry recommends this lace-up pair. “With the Revitalign insoles, there is an unmatched level of orthotic comfort and support,” she says. She also loves this style for its all-weather rubber molded outsole, and quilted heel collar that’s lined with fuzzy sherpa.

Hug your arches: Vionic Tide II Toe Post Sandal

Tide II Toe Post Sandal

DIFFBOT

• Tide II Toe Post Sandal $89.95 at Amazon
• Tide II Toe Post Sandal $90.00 at Vionic
• Tide II Toe Post Sandal $89.96 at DSW

Product Specs

Sizes: 5–13 | Wide width available? No | Colorways: 6 | Materials: Leather | Heel drop: Not listed

Fuchs and Daughtry both recommend shoes by Vionic, and Fuchs specifically recommends these sandals. “For summer footwear, these sandals provide arch support and stability while allowing for breathability,” she says.

They’re biomechanically designed to specifically hug your arches and support your feet, and they have built-in orthotics that can help treat issues like plantar fasciitis.

Runner must-haves: Asics GEL-Kayano® 30

GEL-Kayano® 30

DIFFBOT

• GEL-Kayano® 30 $103.59 at Zappos
• GEL-Kayano® 30 $165.00 at Asics

Product Specs

Sizes: 5–13 | Wide width available? No | Colorways: At least 20 | Materials: Engineered stretch knit mesh | Heel drop: 10mm

If you’re looking for running shoes that are extra supportive, Fuchs and Sonaike both point to this pair. “This running shoe features a supportive upper and ample cushioning, providing stability for runners who need extra ankle support,” Fuchs says. 

Meanwhile, Sonaike recommends these sneakers because of their soles. “They provide an even sole to support the ankle,” she says. Additionally, the gel cushioning helps with overpronation (aka flat feet).

Ideal for hiking: Merrell Women's Moab 3 Waterproof Hiking Shoe

Women's Moab 3 Waterproof Hiking Shoe

AMAZON

• Women's Moab 3 Waterproof Hiking Shoe $123.00 at Amazon
• Women's Moab 3 Waterproof Hiking Shoe $120.00 at Merrell

Product Specs

Sizes: 5–12 | Wide width available? Yes | Colorways: 12 | Materials: Leather, mesh | Heel drop: 11.5mm

“These hiking boots offer serious ankle support, special cushioning for shock absorption and they’re waterproof,” Daughtry says of these supportive shoes by Merrell — a brand that both Fuchs and Sonaike recommend, too.

She also points to their high-quality traction, which provides additional stability on multiple terrains, a lightweight foam midsole and a removable insole that’s contoured with reinforced heel cushioning. Plus, the footbed contours to your feet while you’re walking or hiking, so getting those daily 10,000 steps will feel more comfortable.

Splurge-worthy sneaker: Brooks Women's Adrenaline GTS 23 Supportive Running Shoe

Women’s Adrenaline GTS 23 Supportive Running Shoe

AMAZON

• Women’s Adrenaline GTS 23 Supportive Running Shoe $139.95 at Amazon
• Women’s Adrenaline GTS 23 Supportive Running Shoe $140.00 at Brooks
• Women’s Adrenaline GTS 23 Supportive Running Shoe $139.95 at Zappos

Product Specs

Sizes: 5–13 | Wide width available? Yes | Colorways: 23 | Materials: Not listed | Heel drop: 12mm

All three podiatrists we spoke with recommend Brooks sneakers for ankle support, and both Daughtry and Fuchs recommend this style specifically. “Brooks’ proprietary GuideRail technology helps limit abnormal ankle motion and provides stability, alignment and overall support,” Daughtry says. “With a higher heel drop, pressure is offloaded from the heel and calf muscle, and the shoe offers mid-level support and extra cushioning to assist with additional shock absorption.” 

The supportive sneakers have the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA) Seal of Acceptance, which means they help promote foot health. They’re designed with the brand’s signature DNA LOFT cushioning that adapts to your stride, and an engineered mesh upper that’s breathable and comfortable.

For "all-day" comfort: Naot Footwear Women's Krypton Sneaker

Women's Krypton Sneaker

AMAZON

• Women's Krypton Sneaker $169.95 at Amazon
• Women's Krypton Sneaker $169.95 at Naot Footwear

Product Specs

Sizes: 5–11 | Wide width available? No | Colorways: 3 | Materials: Not listed | Heel drop: Not listed

These sneakers are a pick of Daughtry’s for both their comfort and support. “The throat of the shoe is soft, but cut high for additional ankle support,” she says. She also points to the brand’s patented cork and latex footbed, which she says “provides all-day comfort as it molds to your foot structure.” If you wear orthotics, this is a great style for you, too, since the removable footbed allows you to put them in.

More shoes to shop

For the runner: Asics Women's Gel-Venture 8 Mid Top Running Shoes

Women's Gel-Venture 8 Mid Top Running Shoes

AMAZON

Product Specs

Sizes: 5-12 | Wide width available? No | Colorways: 4 | Materials: Synthetic, mesh | Heel drop: 10mm

Whether you're a marathon runner or looking to get your steps in on the treadmill, these sporty shoes are the perfect fit. Designed to help improve ankle support, these classic kicks feature re-engineered outsole lugs for better off-road traction, according to the brand.

Velcro support: Women's Freestyle Hi Sneaker

Women's Freestyle Hi Sneaker

Product Specs

Sizes: 4.5–12 | Wide width available? No | Colorways: 45 | Materials: Leather | Heel drop: Not listed

Anyone who’s into ’80s and ’90s fashion trends needs a pair of these high-top sneakers. They’re designed with puffy, ribbed collars that feel plush around the ankles, with both laces and adjustable Velcro straps to get a totally customized fit. With over 40 colors to choose from, you’ll be hard-pressed not to find at least one to add to your wardrobe.

Frequently Asked Questions

Sonaike advises checking that the shoes have equal medial and lateral heel soles. “This will prevent you from rolling your ankles,” she says, adding, “If the shoe flares out to the ground when looking at it from behind, then it offers more stability and eliminates side-to-side rocking motion, which can lead to falling.”

Sonaike cautions against shoes that are either too tight or too loose.

“Wearing a shoe that is too big for you can cause complications due to inconsistent heel or arch purchase — to keep a larger shoe on your foot, you will end up straining your anterior ankle tendons,” she says. Conversely, she says that overly tight ankle boots prevent ankle range of motion and can cause pain and blisters. “Pick a shoe that hugs your heel, is not oversized, and has adjustable ankle support like laces or straps,” she says.

Fuchs also recommends checking that the shoes have the proper length and width. “Ensure there’s enough room in the toe box to prevent crowding, while the heel should fit snugly without slipping,” she says. “A secure fit helps keep the foot stable and reduces the risk of ankle injuries.”

Fuchs, Sonaike and Daughtry all recommend ankle exercises and joint range of motion exercises to assist with ankle strengthening. “Proprioception exercises and machines, along with activities such as yoga or Pilates, can help build strength to leg muscles and tendons around the ankle joint for better stability and balance,” Daughtry advises.

Sonaike recommends the Ankle Alphabet Warm Up, which she says not only stretches all four sides of your ankle, but is “the easiest teachable exercise that can be performed at home during commercial breaks or downtime.” Here’s how to do it:

• Step 1: Sit with your legs straight in front of you and your heel slightly raised off the floor.
• Step 2: Support your calf by holding your leg or placing it on a pillow.
• Step 3: Use your toes as a pointer and draw the alphabet by moving only your ankle.
• Step 4: Increase difficulty by drawing the alphabet in lowercase and cursive.

How we chose

To compile our list of the best shoes for ankle support, Shop TODAY considered the recommendations provided to us by the board-certified podiatrists we interviewed. Our final list reflects a range of styles for various activities, including sandals, sneakers and boots.

Meet the experts

• Elizabeth Bass Daughtry, DPM, D.ABFAS, FACFAS, is a podiatric surgeon at Piedmont Foot and Ankle Specialists with USFAS in North Carolina.

• Suzanne Fuchs, MD, is a board-certified podiatrist and sports medicine specialist at LuxePodiatry in Palm Beach, Florida.

• Adenike Sonaike is a board-certified podiatrist and the Medical Director at Baker Street Health in Motion in Fair Lawn, New Jersey.