When it comes to footwear, having a reliable pair of shoes with ankle support is crucial for maintaining stability and preventing potential injuries. Ankle support shoes can provide crucial stability for your ankles, reduce the risk of ankle sprains, and improve overall foot health. Here, we've compiled a list of some of the best shoes for ankle support available on the market today, taking into account a range of factors such as cushioning, stability, fit, and material quality.
Top 7 Ankle Support Shoes for 2023
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NikeReact Infinity Run: A versatile running鞋, designed to provide stability, motion control, and comfort. The React foam insole offers an exceptionally soft and springy feel, while the wide platform promotes a more stable ride.
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ASICSGelVenture9: A budget-friendly ankle support shoe with excellent cushioning, stability, and versatile design. The multi-directional lugs provide grip on various surfaces and the gel cushioning system helps to absorb shock and minimize ankle strain.
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HokaSpeedgoat6: A trail running shoe with substantial cushioning, offering excellent shock absorption and stability on technical trails. The Vibram Megagrip outsole provides grippingtraction, while the wide toe box and padded tongue offer extra comfort.
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BrooksAdrenalineGTS23: A stability running shoe designed to address overpronation and promote proper alignment. The GuideRails support technology helps to keep the foot in place, reducing excess movement and injury risk.
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SalomonXUltra4: A high performance hiking shoe with a durable waterproof membrane and Contagrip™ outsole for confident stepping on technical trails. The sensitive foot frame provides stability and protection against injury.
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NewBalance1540v3: A versatile athletic shoe designed to provide stability and motion control for those with overpronation. The dual-density midsole with Rollbar technology helps to minimize overpronation and reduce ankle strain.
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VionicLani: A gender-neutral athletic shoe with a lace-up design and side zippers for added support and water resistance. The removable EVA footbed provides cushioning and the wide toe box promotes natural movement.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Shoes for Ankle Support
1. Level of Heel Height
When choosing shoes with ankle support, it's important to consider the level of heel height. Shoes with a lower heel height can put more strain on the calf and Achilles tendons, while shoes with a higher heel height can make you more vulnerable to ankle inversion and torsion injuries.
2. Material Quality
Look for sturdy materials that are not going to give way. The shank, which is the actual structure of the shoe, should be rigid to hold up and support the arch.
3. Outsole Type
A rubber outsole that provides better absorption of shock than one with a hard sole can help provide stability and reduce spraining injuries.
4. Activity-Specific Shoes
Make sure you pick the shoe for the specific activity you are going to do. For instance, basketball sneakers are more focused on limiting abnormal motion of the ankle joint, while hiking boots offer specialized cushioning for uneven surfaces.
5. In-Person Testing
Experts recommend trying on shoes in person to get the best fit and feel for the shoes. The feet are usually swelled at the end of the day, so aim to do your shoe testing at the end of the day.
Benefits of Shoes with Ankle Support
For exercising, particularly in sports like basketball and tennis, or for regular walking, shoes with solid ankle support are essential for foot comfort and injury prevention. They can help limit movement around the ankle during any type of physical activity, reducing the risk of ankle sprains and other injuries that commonly happen during sports with sudden changes in direction, jumping, and running on even surfaces.
Avoiding Factors When Shopping for Shoes Specifically for Ankle Support
Stay away from low-cut shoes that lack support, but also avoid anything that is too overbuilt or thick because that won’t be comfortable either.
In conclusion, selecting the best shoes for ankle support is essential for maintaining foot health and preventing injuries during physical activities. By considering factors such as heel height, material quality, outsole type, activity-specific shoes, and in-person testing, you can find the perfect pair of support shoes for your unique needs and preferences.
