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Ankle support running shoes aren’t just for people with weak ankles. These running shoes are designed to help everyone achieve more stability and comfort while hitting the pavement or treadmill. If you have weak ankles that give out frequently, you may benefit from wearing ankle support running shoes on your next run.
But what makes ankle support running shoes different from other running shoes? And how do you choose the best ankle support running shoes?
Here’s everything you need to know about ankle support running shoes and the best way to select them!
Table of Contents
Best Overall Running Shoes
Best Overall
Brooks Adrenaline GTS 21
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The Brooks Adrenaline GTS 21 Running Shoe is our pick for the best overall running shoe because it strikes an outstanding balance between support and cushioning. Though not as well-cushioned as some of our other choices, it still manages to be comfortable on even long runs. It also delivers on providing maximum support for people with high arches or pronation issues. But, of course, it’s all about personal preference.
Ankle Support Shoe for speedwork
Brooks Launch GTS 8
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Brooks Launch GTS 8 running shoe is a stellar option for speedwork. It’s lightweight and fast yet also offers just enough support in a tried-and-true design. If you’re looking for a dependable racer that will keep you going fast, it doesn’t get much better than this. Whether or not your ankles are on the weak side, there are more options out there.
Ankle Support Shoe for a recovery run
Hoka one one Arahi 5
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Hoka one one Arahi 5 – The cushioning is soft, but not too soft. The sole allows for bounce and gives it an extra spring in your step when you run with it on grass or pavement. This shoe has excellent traction because of its thick sole, making it perfect for ankle stability exercises like lunges or single leg balance exercises. It’s also flexible and will allow your foot to move with ease, even if you have bad ankles, as I do.
Ankle Support Running Shoe for trail
ASICS GT-2000 9
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The ASICS GT-2000 9 running shoe has excellent ankle support and is a good option for trail running. This trail running shoe is designed with plush underfoot cushioning and a supportive rear foot cradle, making it a good choice for those with bad ankles. If you suffer from plantar fasciitis or Achilles tendon pain on your wrong side, we recommend looking at our recommendations for injured runners. These shoes will help reduce inflammation, increase circulation in your feet, and ease pain associated with plantar fasciitis.
Running Shoe for Distance Running
ASICS GEL-Nimbus 22
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ASICS GEL-Nimbus 22 is an excellent option for anyone who wants more stability and support during their more extended runs. Comfortable and stylish, it’s also highly breathable, thanks to its open mesh construction. For added comfort, users can select from various colours, including black/charcoal, white/fire red and blue/white. Its underfoot gel cushioning system helps to absorb shock as you run, keeping your body comfortable even when tackling rugged terrains such as hills or trails.
Running Shoe for Flat Feet
Brooks Addiction 14
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If you have flat feet or ankle problems, you’ll want to make sure that your running shoes are designed with ankle support in mind. One of our top choices for the best ankle support running shoe is the Brooks Addiction 14. These shoes are explicitly designed for overpronators (people who roll their ankles excessively when they run). They provide just what runners with flat feet need: plenty of cushioning in the forefoot and a rigid midsole that supports your arch. The thick, gel-infused midsole provides just enough shock absorption without making it too difficult to land softly on your heel when you run, so your Achilles tendon doesn’t get strained when you strike out or push off.
Best Cushioned Running Shoe
ASICS Gel-Nimbus 23
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The ASICS Gel-Nimbus 23 is a lightweight shoe, so runners looking for something with excellent ankle support but without too much cushioning will love it. It has excellent cushioning around the front of your feet but no real arch support or serious padding in other areas. If you have bad ankles, it’s ideal because few seams can rub against your joints—and even better, if you have sensitive feet (or flat feet), it’s perfect for you because there aren’t any seams along the bottom. There are also ventilation holes throughout, which make it ideal if you live in warmer climates or want air circulating underneath your feet and through them.
Budget-friendly Running Shoe
New Balance FuelCell Echo
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If you suffer from painful and weak ankles, there’s a high chance you’re not wearing support. And if you’re serious about fixing your ankle issues for good, then it’s time to invest in a supportive pair of running shoes. You don’t have to worry about breaking your bank account—we found one that comes in under $100. The New Balance FuelCell Echo will not only add much-needed comfort and stability to your runs, but it also provides excellent arch support and comes in many colours. Even better: You can find these shoes at an even lower price when they go on sale.
FAQ
Have you been wondering what running shoes you need? Searching shoes for any type of running needs and finding it hard to make a decision, here are some questions answered.
Why Do I Need Ankle Support?
When you’re running, your ankles and lower legs absorb a lot of shocks. For most people, that’s not a problem, but if you have bad ankles or previous ankle injuries, then it can be. To prevent yourself from ankle sprains and protect yourself from future injuries, your best bet is to choose running shoes with extra support. While it might seem like you need all kinds of fancy features and designs for running shoes meant for bad ankles, they don’t have to be complicated. Most great ankle support running shoes fall into three categories: midfoot shanks, motion control shoes, and stability shoes.
Are Lace Up Shoes Good For My Bad Ankles?
While many people don’t think about their shoes as offering ankle support, it’s a great way to ensure that your ankles are safe even when you aren’t wearing any ankle braces. When you lace up your shoes, you provide a snug fit, which can help prevent your foot from twisting or rolling over and causing ankle injury. Be careful of shoes that don’t have laces as they can sometimes slip around on your feet and cause sprains. If you already have bad ankles, these injuries will quickly snowball into serious problems if they go untreated, which is why those with ankle issues need to find running shoes with high-quality lacing systems.
What Kind of Running Shoes Should I Look For?
The first question is what kind of running shoes you should be looking for. Do you want them for everyday use or only for jogging? There are many styles in today’s market. Some are designed more specifically with one purpose in mind, while others provide multiple purposes. One of your options is support running shoes; these are designed with ankle support and stability in mind. When choosing running shoes that offer support, one of your main concerns should be having enough cushioning and shock absorption while still offering adequate ankle support. The last thing you want is for your feet to get tired or blistered because of poorly fitted footwear, especially if you’re planning on using them every day.
Choosing Ankle Support Running Shoes
If you’re looking for a great pair of ankle support running shoes, it’s essential to know your specific needs. Many things go into choosing a shoe—price, style, durability—but how well they suit your feet is ultimately what matters most. To determine the best running shoes with good ankle support, ask yourself these questions: Do you have high arches? Do you tend to overpronate? Are you new to running, or do you need extra cushioning for your runs? These factors and more will help narrow down your options and lead you toward a pair of comfortable and practical ankle support running shoes.
Our Final Thought
When buying running shoes, you want to buy shoes that provide adequate ankle support. Not all running shoes are made equal, so you must do your research beforehand.
Luckily for you, we’ve rounded up our top picks of what we think are some of the best running shoes for ankle support. However, if you have bad ankles or ankles prone to injury, these recommendations will not be enough for you—you will need extra ankle support.