9+ The Best Ankle-Support Shoes for Walkers | Reviews 2025

Whether you’re walking to class, enjoying a daily stroll, or taking on a long hike, having the right shoes is essential for comfort and support. If you’re prone to ankle pain or simply want to prevent injuries, choosing shoes that offer strong ankle support can make all the difference.

Not only do well-designed walking shoes provide stability, but they also help you maintain proper posture and reduce strain on your joints.

In this guide, we’ll explore the best shoes for ankle support when walking, designed to keep you moving comfortably and confidently. From cushioning to durable materials, we’ll highlight key features that will support your stride and ensure every step feels secure.

Whether you’re dealing with existing ankle issues or just want to prevent future discomfort, the right footwear can provide lasting relief and support. Let’s dive into the top walking shoes that will protect your ankles and help you stay active, pain-free, and comfortable all day long.

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What Shoes Do You Wear With Ankle Support?

When looking for shoes with ankle support, some options include:

1. Athletic shoes: Many athletic shoes, such as running shoes and cross-training shoes, are designed with extra support for the ankles to help prevent injuries.
2. Hiking boots: Hiking boots are designed to provide support and stability for the feet and ankles while trekking on rugged terrain.
3. Work boots: Work boots often have reinforced ankle support to protect the feet and ankles in hazardous work environments.
4. Orthopedic shoes: Orthopedic shoes are designed for people with foot or ankle conditions and often have extra support and cushioning to help alleviate pain and discomfort.
5. High-top sneakers: High-top sneakers often have a higher cut that wraps around the ankle and provides extra support for the ankle
6. Ankle Brace shoes: There are shoes specifically designed to be worn with ankle braces, that provide extra support for the ankle and are more comfortable than wearing a brace with a normal shoe.

It’s important to note that extra support should not be the only factor when choosing a shoe, comfort, and fit should also be considered. It’s recommended that you consult with a podiatrist or a medical professional before making a purchase to ensure that the shoe you choose is appropriate for your needs.

What are The Best Shoes For Ankle Support When Walking

Taking all these factors into consideration, we have compiled the 9 Best Shoes For Ankle Support When Walking that are perfect for walking and are both fashionable and functional.

So let’s take a look at the list

Best Shoes For Ankle Support When Walking | Comparison Table 2025

Top Quality | 5- Star Picks | Great Prices

Top 9+ Shoes For Ankle Support When Walking | Reviews 2025

1. Nike  Best women’s shoes for ankle support

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2. Saucony Men's Core Cohesion Shoes for Walking Comfort

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3. ASICS Men's Gel-Venture-Top pick for ankle support

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4. New Balance

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5. ASICS Men's GT

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6. Brooks Addiction GTS

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The Brooks Addiction GTS 15 is a high-performance running shoe specifically designed for women, offering a blend of comfort, support, and durability for both runners and those who spend long hours on their feet.

Key Features

• 3D Fit Print: Ensures a snug fit, especially in the toe area.
• Engineered Air Mesh Upper: Provides breathability and comfort during runs.
• Sock Liner with Additional Cushioning: Enhances plush in-shoe feel.
• BioMoGo DNA Cushioning: Adapts to your stride, weight, and speed for customized support.
• GuideRails Technology: Offers support by minimizing excess foot movement.

Benefits
The Brooks Addiction GTS 15 combines advanced technology and thoughtful design to deliver a running shoe that caters to individual needs, reducing the risk of injuries and enhancing overall performance.

Comfort and Fit
This shoe is designed with a roomy toe box and a breathable upper, ensuring all-day comfort and preventing overheating during intense activities.

Arch Support
The GuideRails technology helps maintain proper alignment, offering excellent arch support to keep your feet in their natural position.

Cushioning
With BioMoGo DNA cushioning, this shoe provides adaptive cushioning that responds to your movements, absorbing impact and providing a soft landing with every step.

Breathability
The Engineered Air Mesh upper enhances airflow, keeping your feet cool and dry even during strenuous runs.

Weight
The Brooks Addiction GTS 15 balances lightweight design with durability, ensuring you won't feel weighed down while running or walking.

Material Quality
Constructed with high-quality materials, this shoe ensures longevity and reliable performance over time.

Durability
The outsole is made of durable rubber, offering excellent traction on various surfaces and resisting wear over time.

Non-Slip Soles
Designed to provide stability, the non-slip soles help you maintain grip, reducing the risk of slips and falls.

Adjustability
The 3D Fit Print technology allows for a customizable fit, accommodating different foot shapes and preferences.

Style and Appearance
Available in a sleek Black/Ebony/Mauvewood colorway, the Brooks Addiction GTS 15 combines functionality with stylish design, making it suitable for both athletic and casual wear.

7. Salomon Speedcross-Shoes for Ankle Health and Comfort

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8. ASICS Gel-Nimbus

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9. Ryka Women Sky -best Ankle-Supported Shoes

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How Do I Pick The Best Shoes For Ankle Support When Walking| Ultimate Guide 2025

Whether you work out at the gym, pick up your kids from school or walk to work, daily exercise is essential for physical and mental health. Unfortunately, some people suffer from sore feet, tight toes, and sore heels, but a good pair of shoes can help, any good running shoe can also be a good walking shoe.

We spoke with the podiatrist about what makes a good running shoe and what to look for when trying on sneakers. We also asked him how to break in a new pair of sneakers and what his favorite shoes were.

Looking for shoes with smooth, firm leather uppers that offer durability as well as flexibility and comfort. It's important to choose shoes that are as durable and protective as possible without sacrificing comfort or flexibility.

For optimal comfort, the flex point of the shoe (the point at which it bends when you walk) should match the flex point of the foot. If it doesn't match the foot, it can lead to problems such as arch pain and plantar fasciitis. A shoe's flex point can be checked by holding the heel of the shoe and pressing the toe of the shoe against the ground. Shvets adds that most runners/walkers can benefit from shoes with a stiff sole that doesn't flex in the middle.

Also Read: Best Nike Running Shoes For Women

SIZE

Also, remember that different brands have different sizes, depending on the design and material. It is advisable to make a fitting in the store before buying sneakers. Also, remember that the length and width of the foot may change over time due to the sinking of the arch and hormonal changes during pregnancy.

The tip of your thumb should fit between the front of the shoe and the longest toe. Make sure the toe box is wide enough to accommodate your toes - there should be enough room to wiggle your toes a little. It is more effective to try at least three different shoes, two at a time, and wear one pair at a time for comparison.

Whether you enjoy walking long distances, going on hikes, or looking for the best shoes for walking around town, it's important to find the right shoes for your lifestyle and foot type. So here are some shoes that will keep your feet in top shape with the best comfort, cushioning, and excellent arch support.

we suggest these shoes to all of his patients. It helps the feet move forward by pushing their power back into the ground, so you can run longer and faster, adding that it's also lightweight and durable.

Wearing high-heeled shoes is the best protection for the ankle because the lace is pulled over the "ankle". It ensures that the muscles, ligaments, and tendons work together properly.

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HIGH HEELED

Research on the effects of high-heeled shoes on ankle sprains shows that high-heeled shoes slow the amplitude of the ankle's response to turn inward.

Another study shows that high-heeled American football cleats reduce ankle range of motion (especially movements associated with ankle sprains, such as inverting), increase athlete ankle stability, and do not affect performance.

Basketball and soccer athletes often have weak ankles due to repetitive movement patterns. The ankle is always subjected to a lot of stress during hard work and is therefore more prone to injury. The main reason for this is that the bones of the lower limbs have a higher center of gravity than the bones of the upper limbs.

EXERCISE

It can strengthen the muscles of the lower limbs and the back of the ankles. They can also improve balance and flexibility. Exercises to strengthen the ankle should include exercises that target the hindfoot, calf, and quadriceps muscles. The calf muscles can be strengthened by calf raises. The quadriceps muscles can be exercised by doing leg curls. The calves can also be strengthened by toe raises and squats.

Stand with your feet hip-width apart for the ankle exercise. Then bend your knees, flex your ankles and lift your heels. Do this once a day. For best results, work with a physical therapist who can teach you the proper techniques to strengthen your ankle. Insoles or orthotics are good ways to reduce ankle pain. They improve posture because they can put your hips and buttocks in the right position.

People with flat feet are more prone to ankle pain because their arches are sunken and unstable. Arch supports are ideal for preventing ankle pain in these people. They are usually made of soft material and fit inside your shoes. They give extra support to the ankles and help them maintain their normal shape.

Running and walking shoes feature DYNAMIC DUOMAX technology, which consists of a stiffer midsole material that reduces stress on the ankle caused by overpronation.

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ADVANTAGES

The advantage of these shoes is that they do not load the back of the heel. This is especially important for people with weak ankles. The upper part of the shoe has an open mesh, which provides your feet with good ventilation and comfort. The shoe has a slightly higher modified padded collar. So when you put on your shoes, you should put them on instead of opening the laces, it's more comfortable. This feature helps to reduce the stress on the ankles.

The shoes also have an EVA midsole that runs the length of the shoe, providing excellent cushioning for your weak ankles and giving you the feeling of walking on a cushion. Before choosing a high-top or low-top shoe, you need to look at the pros and cons of ankles. Some people prefer high-heeled shoes because they provide extra support to the shoe by increasing the height of the shaft. Some people prefer low-heeled shoes because they are lightweight and have maximum freedom of movement.

SUPPORT

Although they provide additional support to the ankle, high-heeled shoes are relatively expensive and the extra material adds weight. So it's the shoes you wear depending on your needs. Shoes for weak ankles should be functional enough to protect a damaged ankle by providing support and stability. Typically, shoes that support the ankle have a padded collar that provides cushioning and a secure fit, making it easier for your feet to get into the shoe.

Good shoes that support the ankle also support the arch of the foot and provide proper alignment of the foot when walking. The midsole of the shoe plays an important role in supporting the ankle. A properly designed midsole can reduce ankle stress and absorb shock when walking. This can make the shoes more comfortable.

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FITTING

When choosing hiking shoes for ankle protection, it is important that the shoes fit properly and enclose the foot. If the shoes do not fit properly in the heel and ankle area, it is not a good decision to buy these shoes, no matter how much comfort they provide. Ankle support, arch support, or anything else that affects your comfort, then the [shoe needs to fit properly.

Some shoes should have a lace-up closure, others vector straps, and provide fitness to the foot. Both options are good. It's up to you which model you buy depending on your requirements.

When walking barefoot, the feet are subjected to a variety of forces, including friction, impact, and pressure. When wearing shoes, the ankle is subjected to intense pressure that can cause injury. This pressure can be caused by body weight, ground pressure, or foot movement. When running barefoot, the foot absorbs the effects of these forces directly on its surface.

The best ankle pads will protect your aching ankles by absorbing shock and impact and reducing stress. Typically, shoes with EVA midsoles or GEL technology provide your feet with good cushioning and comfort by reducing impact. Some shoes also offer cushioned insoles, sock liners, or seamless construction to improve the feel of the shoe on your foot.

Also Read: Best Shoes For Exercise

Understanding the Importance of Ankle Support for Walking

When it comes to walking—whether it’s a leisurely stroll, a brisk walk around campus, or an extended hike in nature—your ankles play a crucial role in your overall movement and stability. Walking involves repetitive pressure on your joints, especially your ankles, which bear much of your body weight and help you maintain balance. This is why choosing the right shoes with adequate ankle support is essential for long-term foot health and comfort.

Why Ankle Support is Vital

The primary function of ankle support in walking shoes is to prevent unnecessary strain on the ankle joint. Without sufficient support, the risk of injury, such as sprains, twists, and other ankle-related issues, increases significantly. Walking in poorly supported shoes can lead to discomfort, pain, and long-term damage, including joint misalignment and improper gait. Shoes designed for ankle support ensure that the foot and ankle remain stable, reducing the risk of these injuries.

How Proper Ankle Support Enhances Your Walking Experience

1. Prevents Sprains and Strains: A supportive shoe keeps the foot secure in place, preventing sudden movements that could twist or overstretch the ankle joint.
2. Improves Posture: Ankle support contributes to overall alignment, ensuring that your posture stays correct while walking. This, in turn, prevents fatigue and strain on other areas of your body, like your knees and lower back.
3. Boosts Comfort: When your ankles are well-supported, it decreases the pressure on your joints, leading to a more comfortable walking experience—ideal for long walks or standing for extended periods.
4. Reduces Foot Fatigue: Proper ankle support ensures that weight is evenly distributed across the foot, which helps in reducing foot fatigue. This is especially important if you’re walking on hard or uneven surfaces.
5. Supports Recovery: For those recovering from an injury or experiencing chronic ankle discomfort, shoes with superior ankle support aid in the healing process, reducing the likelihood of re-injury.

Signs You Need Ankle Support Shoes

• Frequent Ankle Pain: If you experience discomfort or swelling in your ankles after walking or standing, it could be a sign that your shoes aren’t providing enough support.
• History of Ankle Injuries: Individuals with a history of sprains, strains, or fractures should invest in shoes that offer enhanced ankle support.
• Flat Feet or High Arches: These foot conditions often lead to misalignment, which can strain the ankle joint. Shoes designed for your foot type can help provide the necessary support and reduce discomfort.
• Uneven Wear on Shoes: If your shoes show signs of uneven wear, it could mean that your ankles aren’t properly supported during your stride.

How to Maintain and Care for Your Ankle Support Shoes

Just like any other piece of footwear, ankle support shoes require regular care to ensure they maintain their effectiveness and longevity. Proper maintenance doesn’t just keep your shoes looking fresh—it helps maintain the stability and support they provide for your ankles. Here are some tips on how to properly maintain and care for your ankle support shoes:

1. Clean and Dry Regularly

Over time, dirt, mud, sweat, and moisture can accumulate on your shoes, compromising their materials and support. Here’s how to keep them clean:

• Surface Cleaning: Wipe off dirt and dust after each use with a damp cloth. Use a brush for shoes with mesh or suede materials to remove debris without damaging the fabric.
• Deep Cleaning: For shoes that need a deeper clean, use a mild detergent mixed with warm water. Scrub the shoes gently with a soft brush, focusing on the soles and areas that are prone to dirt buildup. Be sure to rinse thoroughly and let them air dry.
• Avoid the Washing Machine: Unless the manufacturer specifies it, avoid putting your shoes in the washing machine, as the agitation can cause materials like leather or synthetic fabrics to lose their structure.

2. Let Them Dry Naturally

After wearing your ankle support shoes for a long day, they may get sweaty or damp. It’s essential to dry them properly to maintain their shape and support:

• Stuff with Paper Towels: After cleaning or if your shoes are wet from the rain, stuff them with newspaper or paper towels to absorb moisture. This also helps retain the shoe's shape.
• Avoid Direct Heat: Never place your shoes near a heater or in direct sunlight to dry them, as excessive heat can damage the materials, causing them to shrink or warp. Instead, let them air dry at room temperature.

3. Store Properly to Maintain Shape

How you store your shoes when they’re not in use plays a significant role in preserving their structure and support. Here’s how to store your ankle support shoes:

• Use Shoe Trees: For shoes made of leather or other stiff materials, shoe trees are a great way to keep them in their original shape, preventing creases and warping.
• Avoid Overcrowding: Store your shoes in a space where they can maintain their shape and airflow. Don’t cram them into tight spaces, as this can distort the structure and make the shoes less supportive over time.
• Store in a Cool, Dry Place: Extreme temperatures and humidity can affect the materials of your shoes. Store them in a cool, dry place to ensure they stay in optimal condition.

4. Rotate Shoes Regularly

If you wear the same pair of shoes every day, they may wear out faster, especially around the ankle area where the most pressure is applied. To extend the life of your ankle support shoes, rotate them every few days. This allows the shoes to rest and maintain their original shape, giving the materials time to recover from the daily wear.

5. Replace Insoles for Added Comfort

Over time, the insoles in your ankle support shoes can lose their cushioning and support. If you notice your shoes feeling less comfortable or supportive, consider replacing the insoles. Opt for orthopedic insoles designed to offer additional arch and ankle support.

6. Repair Minor Damage Promptly

Small issues like loose stitching, a worn-out sole, or fraying laces can affect your shoes' overall support. Address these minor repairs promptly by either using a shoe repair kit or taking them to a professional cobbler. Timely repairs can help you avoid more significant issues that could compromise ankle support.

Best Shoes For Ankle Support When Walking | Video Explanation

FAQs

What Shoes Prevent Ankle Sprains?

Ankle sprains can occur due to a variety of factors, including improper footwear, uneven terrain, and a lack of physical conditioning. While no shoe can completely prevent ankle sprains, certain types of shoes can help reduce the risk of injury by providing support and stability to the feet and ankles.

Should I Wear Ankle Brace While Walking?

Whether or not to wear an ankle brace while walking depends on your individual situation and needs. If you have a history of ankle sprains or other ankle injuries, or if you have an existing ankle condition, wearing an ankle brace can provide additional support and stability to help prevent further injury. It's also a good idea to wear an ankle brace if you are participating in activities that put extra stress on your ankles.

However, if you have no pre-existing ankle condition or injury, and you are not participating in activities that put extra stress on your ankles, it may not be necessary to wear an ankle brace while walking.

Also, it's important to note that if you are wearing an ankle brace, you should choose shoes that fit well with the brace and provide extra support for the ankle.

How Can I Strengthen My Ankles For Walking?

There are several exercises that can help strengthen your ankles and reduce the risk of injury while walking:

1. Ankle pumps: Sit in a chair and raise and lower your foot by flexing and pointing your toes. This exercise will help to improve circulation and strengthen the muscles in your feet and ankles.
2. Ankle circles: Sit in a chair and rotate your foot in a circular motion, both clockwise and counterclockwise. This will help to improve the range of motion and flexibility in your ankle.
3. Heel raises: Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart, and slowly raise and lower your heels. This will help to strengthen the muscles in your calves and ankles.
4. Toe raises: Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart and raise your toes as high as you can. This will help to strengthen the muscles in the front of your ankle.
5. Balance exercises: Stand on one leg and try to maintain your balance for as long as you can. This will help to improve your balance and stability, which can help to prevent falls and injuries.

It's important to perform these exercises regularly and to work on both legs evenly. Incorporating these exercises in your daily routine, along with stretching and proper warm-up before any physical activity can help you to improve your ankle strength and reduce the risk of injury.

As always, it's best to consult with a physical therapist or doctor before starting any new exercise program, especially if you have a pre-existing ankle condition.

What Should I Wear If I Have Weak Ankles?

If you have weak ankles, it's important to wear shoes that provide good arch support and reinforced heel, as well as a good fit. Athletic shoes, hiking boots, and orthopedic shoes are good options. You may also consider wearing an ankle brace or orthotic inserts to provide extra support and stability. Consult with a podiatrist or physical therapist to determine what is best for your individual needs.

How Do You Strengthen Weak Ankles?

To strengthen weak ankles, you can perform exercises such as ankle pumps, ankle circles, heel raises, toe raises, and balance exercises. Incorporating these exercises in your daily routine, along with stretching and proper warm-up before any physical activity can help you to improve your ankle strength and reduce the risk of injury. It's best to consult with a physical therapist or doctor before starting any new exercise program, especially if you have a pre-existing ankle condition.

Can Shoes Help Ankle Pain?

Yes, shoes can help alleviate ankle pain by providing the appropriate support and cushioning for your foot and ankle. Wearing shoes that fit well and provide good arch support can help to distribute weight evenly across the foot and reduce stress on the ankle. Orthopedic shoes or shoes with built-in ankle support can also help to alleviate pain and discomfort.

It's important to note that shoes alone may not be enough to alleviate severe ankle pain caused by underlying medical conditions. In this case, it's best to consult with a medical professional such as a doctor, physiotherapist or podiatrist to determine the cause of the pain and the most appropriate treatment. They may also recommend other treatment options such as physical therapy, orthotics, or even surgery.

What Shoes Cause Ankle Pain?

Certain types of shoes can cause ankle pain by not providing the appropriate support and cushioning for your foot and ankle. Some examples include:

1. High heels: High heels can put extra stress on the ankle and lead to pain and discomfort.
2. Flats: Flats can also cause pain if they lack arch support, as the foot has to compensate for the lack of support.
3. Ill-fitting shoes: Shoes that are too tight or too loose can cause pain by not providing a proper fit and support.
4. Worn-out shoes: Shoes that are worn out or no longer provide adequate support and cushioning can cause pain in the feet and ankles.
5. Sandals: Sandals that lack arch support and have a flat sole can cause pain in the ankle

It's important to choose shoes that fit well and provide good support and cushioning for your feet and to replace your shoes regularly to ensure that they continue to provide the necessary support. Regularly checking the wear and tear of your shoes is also important, because worn-out shoes can cause pain and injuries.

What Is The Fastest Way To Strengthen A Sprained Ankle?

What Are Weak Ankles A Symptom Of?

This symptom often begins with swelling of the ankle. Weakness in the ankle can lead to symptoms such as ankle swelling, tenderness, stiffness, and reduced function.

Do Arch Support Help Ankle Pain?

Orthotics and insoles are a great way to relieve ankle pain. They help put the hips and buttocks in the correct position, which improves posture.

People with flat feet are more likely to suffer from ankle pain because the arch of the foot collapses and lacks stability.

How can a good ankle support shoe affect my feet?

The best ankle support shoes have many benefits, helping to reduce impact and stress on the ankle muscles and protecting your ankle from twists and sprains.

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Conclusion

Ankle support shoes are designed to give you more stability while walking. They are designed to improve balance and increase overall stability. Best Shoes For Ankle Support When Walking provide a stable platform for your ankles. They ensure that your ankles can move freely and that your feet are properly aligned.

In addition, ankle support shoes help reduce ankle swelling. This can help prevent ankle sprains.

Brian Garris

Hi, I am Brian, Lives in Mooresville, North Carolina, and Went to The University of Texas at Austin, I am a shoe lover & know the inside out of shoes. I am well aware of the qualities of top-quality boots. That’s what I’m sharing with the reader of About Shoes/boots/footwear. Read More Here