Wearing an ankle brace can be essential for preventing injuries and providing support during recovery from an ankle injury. However, finding the right shoes to accommodate your brace can be challenging. Not all shoes are created equal when it comes to fitting ankle braces comfortably and securely. This guide will help you understand which types of shoes work best with ankle braces and why.
If you are looking for more details, kindly visit PFC.
While ankle braces fit comfortably in most traditional athletic shoes or sneakers with a tongue and laces, there are some shoes that don&#;t work well with braces. If you purchase an ankle brace and can&#;t fit it inside your shoe, or it&#;s uncomfortable while you&#;re wearing it with your shoes, it may be due to the design or style of the shoe and not the ankle brace. For that reason, it&#;s a good idea to know upfront which shoes you should avoid when wearing your ankle braces.
Traditional Tongue and Laces Design
The style of sneaker that works best with ankle braces has a traditional tongue and laces design so you can spread out the opening of the shoe and easily insert the ankle brace. Low-top athletic shoes work best with ankle braces because they don&#;t apply undue pressure over your ankle bones like a mid- or high-top shoe will.
Avoid Modern Collar or Sleeve Designs
Athletic shoe styles are changing all the time. In recent years, athletic shoe companies have been introducing sneakers that deviate from the traditional shoe design. Rather than having a traditional tongue and laces, this new style of shoe has a collar or sleeve design that makes it almost impossible to fit an ankle brace in the shoe. These shoes typically are of the mid- or high-top design and are hardest to fit an ankle brace inside.
Lace-Up Ankle Braces
For those without a traditional tongue and laces design, a smaller shoe size, or a high-top shoe, a lace-up ankle brace will most likely be the best option for you. The Ultra 360® locks your ankle in place while the figure-8 straps provide 360º of ankle support to help prevent excessive ankle rolling. The multi-adjustable design allows you to customize your level of support.
Hinged Ankle Braces
We have found that our customers with traditional tongue and laces shoes can wear a hinged ankle brace if their foot size is above a women&#;s size 9 or a men&#;s size 7. Shoes of these sizes or larger have enough room to comfortably fit both the foot and ankle brace inside. Customers do not need to &#;size up&#; on shoes to wear hinged ankle braces. Ultra Ankle® offers three different hinged ankle braces. The Ultra Zoom®, the Ultra High-5®, and the Ultra CTS®. Each offers different product features for different ankle conditions. To compare and contrast, visit our Compare All Braces page.
Selecting the Right Athletic Shoes
If you&#;re an athlete who is planning to wear an ankle brace and you want it to fit in the shoe properly and be comfortable to wear for long periods of time, stick with a traditional, low-top sneaker designed for the sport you play.
The Myth of High-Top Shoes
No high-top shoe is going to prevent an injury in sports that have a higher risk of ankle sprains (such as basketball or volleyball) where the mechanism of injury is coming down from a jump and landing on an opposing player&#;s foot at a high velocity. The only things that can help prevent ankle injuries are stronger muscles, ligaments, and tendons in the ankle, and/or, and sturdy ankle brace (FCSF)(Lems). Therefore, we recommend wearing a low top athletic shoe with a high performance ankle brace, like the Ultra Zoom, which is designed to help prevent ankle injuries or lessen the severity should an injury occur. The Ultra Zoom will fit easily in a traditional low top sneaker and provide a comfortable fit all season long.
Modern High-Tops and Ankle Support
Conventional wisdom is that high-top athletic shoes or tall work boots can support the ankle more effectively than low tops primarily because the high-top shoe is higher and therefore has more leverage to grab the ankle and hold it in place. However, today&#;s high-top sneakers are not your parent&#;s high-tops. These new high-top designs use flexible and stretchable materials with the goal of being comfortable to wear for long periods of time. And if the material stretches, it&#;s probably not going to provide much in the way of ankle support. While high-top shoes are advertised to provide additional ankle support, the truth is that no shoe can support the joint and help prevent ankle injuries like an ankle brace can.
Challenges with Tall Work Boots
Let&#;s say you are a construction worker and you suffer from ankle osteoarthritis, so you like to wear a sturdy work boot to help stabilize your ankle. Let&#;s say recently your ankle started hurting on the job site and you&#;re thinking about getting an ankle brace for additional support.
Two things happen when you try to wear an ankle brace in a tall work boot:
The ankle brace is very difficult to fit inside your tall work boot.
If you get the brace to fit in the boot it may not be very comfortable. This happens after you lace up the boot, which pushes the sides of the brace against the ankle bones, potentially causing pain and irritation.
Low-Top Work Shoes
In general, we recommend a low-top work shoe where you can spread out the laces enough to easily fit the brace in the shoe. Since the sides of the shoe are below the joint, there is no potential for irritation over your ankle bones. A low-top work shoe combined with a good professional ankle brace can provide more ankle support than a tall work boot worn by itself by far.
For those looking for an ankle brace that will fit in a high-top work boot, the Ultra 360 Lace-up will be your best option. This flexible, fabric brace fits in almost any shoe &#; providing extra support and compression to help protect your ankle.
Choosing the right shoes to wear with your ankle brace is crucial for comfort and effectiveness. Stick with traditional tongue and lace designs, preferably low-tops, and avoid modern sleeve-style shoes that complicate fitting. For athletes, low-top athletic shoes paired with a high-performance ankle brace provide the best support. In work environments, opt for low-top work shoes over tall boots to ensure a comfortable and supportive fit.
If you have questions about which ankle brace would fit best inside your athletic shoes or work boots, you can send one of our athletic trainers a message or call us directly at (317) 520-.
We wear-tested walking, running, and hiking shoes and prioritized options that provide additional lateral support without feeling bulky and still allow our feet to move naturally. We thoroughly examined each shoe&#;s fit, comfort, responsiveness, stability, cushioning, traction, durability, and value . We also had a member of our Review Board , who is a physical therapist and RRCA-certified run coach, review the claims in this article for accuracy.
If you have weak or injured ankles or deal with ankle pain , choosing a pair of shoes with extra ankle support is essential to keep you comfortable and confident during exercise. To find the best ankle support shoes on the market, we began by interviewing four experts&#;two foot and ankle orthopedic surgeons, a physiatrist, and a podiatrist&#;for advice on key features to look for. Then, we tested over 135 pairs of shoes in the Verywell Testing Lab and at home to find ones that provide motion control, arch support, and grippy traction for optimal stability.
Best Women's Overall
Nike Structure 25 Women's Road Running Shoes
PHOTO: Nike
Pros
Comfortable, supportive cushioning
Sleek, breathable upper
Versatile for fitness or casual wear
Cons
Laces may untie easily
Key Specs
Weight: Women&#;s 9.3 ounces | Materials: Mesh upper, foam midsole, rubber outsole | Cushioning: Plush but responsive | Drop: 10 millimeters | Our Overall Rating: 5/5
Who They&#;re For
Best for women who need a stable, comfortable shoe for running, walking, and everyday wear.
Why We Love Them
With a versatile design, exceptional support, and lasting comfort, Nike&#;s Structure 25 Road Running Shoes take our top women&#;s spot. During testing, on our walks and hikes, we immediately noticed extra protection and support for unstable ankles. Our feet and ankles stayed in place, and we didn&#;t feel like we would twist or roll them. Plus, the rubber outsole delivered grippy traction, even when we wore the shoes on wet surfaces or uneven terrain.
The shoe&#;s breathable upper combines foot-hugging support and a comfy fit with a sleek style that inspired us to wear these shoes for both fitness and casual wear. We were also impressed with the plush but responsive cushioning, which provided effective arch support and impact protection. Even after wearing this pair for over eight hours daily, we noticed no pain or fatigue in our feet or joints.
Also available in men's sizes at Nike, Dick&#;s Sporting Goods, and Fleet Feet.
Potential Flaws
&#;These shoes provided wonderful support for my ankles and all other joints. They allowed me to stay on my feet for longer amounts of time during work. I had more energy and felt like I could do more things after work, rather than just go home and lay down due to fatigue.&#; &#;Rachel Marek, Verywell Fit product tester
Our tester has flat, wide feet and enjoys walking and hiking for exercise. She also stands a lot at work, and she found that this pair delivered the support and cushioning needed to keep her feet and joints free from pain and fatigue.
PHOTO: Verywell Fit / Stella Yu
PHOTO: Verywell Fit / Stella Yu
PHOTO: Verywell Fit / Stella Yu
PHOTO: Verywell Fit / Rachel Marek
PHOTO: Verywell Fit / Rachel Marek
PHOTO: Verywell Fit / Rachel Marek
Best Men's Overall
Brooks Beast GTS 23 Running Shoe
PHOTO: Amazon
$160
Pros
Excellent stability and motion control
Comfortable, secure fit
APMA-approved
Cons
May feel stiff at first
Key Specs
Weight: Men&#;s 11.9 ounces | Materials: Mesh upper, foam midsole, rubber outsole | Cushioning: Moderate | Drop: 12 millimeters | Our Overall Rating: 5/5
Who They&#;re For
Best for men who need a durable shoe with motion control for safe exercising.
Why We Love Them
Brooks&#; Beast GTS 23 Road Running Shoes feature exceptional cushioning and stability, ideal for men with weak or injury-prone ankles. During testing, we were impressed by the shoe&#;s motion control technology that promoted a natural stride and proper foot alignment while we walked and jogged on pavement or light trails. And during a pickleball game, the grippy traction kept us confident, even while playing on a damp court.
The shoe&#;s midsole features plush cushioning and firm arch support that holds up well during periods of extended wear&#;a testament to the shoe&#;s durability. And we noticed that the breathable, stretchy upper provides a snug yet comfortable fit that kept our feet securely in place.
Also available in women's sizes at Amazon, Brooks, and Fleet Feet.
Potential Flaws
&#;After a few miles of walking in the shoes, I could tell that the support was one of the best I have experienced. The true test for me was playing pickleball. I did not worry about slipping on the court, and was able to attack shots I would have been cautious to do before. My feet and ankles were supported and I felt it elevated my play.&#;&#;Kyle Wegner, Verywell Fit product tester
Our tester has weak ankles and a history of gout in his feet, so he needs supportive, comfortable sneakers for walking, jogging, and playing pickleball. When wearing this pair, he felt well-supported and confident that he wouldn&#;t twist an ankle&#;thanks to the shoe&#;s great stability, comfy fit, traction, and durability.
PHOTO: Verywell Fit / Kyle Wegner
PHOTO: Verywell Fit / Kyle Wegner
PHOTO: Verywell Fit / Kyle Wegner
PHOTO: Verywell Fit / Kyle Wegner
PHOTO: Verywell Fit / Kyle Wegner
Best Women&#;s Budget
Saucony Integrity Walker 3
PHOTO: Amazon
$90
Pros
Solid support
APMA-approved
Excellent traction
Cons
Gets hot in warm weather
Slightly bulky
Key Specs
Weight: 10.3 ounces | Materials: Leather upper, foam midsole, rubber outsole | Cushioning: Medium | Closure: Lace-up | Drop: Not listed | Our Overall Rating: 4.5/5
Who They&#;re For
Best for walking and hiking in cool or cold weather on various terrains.
Why We Love Them
Saucony&#;s Women's Integrity Walker 3 features a durable leather upper, solid comfort, and reliable support&#;all at a budget-friendly price. Right away, we noticed that the cushioning feels firmer compared to other options we tested, providing exceptional impact protection and ankle stability on various terrains.
During testing, we also appreciated the grippy rubber outsole that offers reliable traction on different surfaces, helping to keep us balanced and steady. Plus, the APMA-approved shoe&#;s plush, form-fitting collar and tongue add to its overall comfort and stability.
Also available in men&#;s sizes at Amazon, Saucony, and Zappos.
Potential Flaws
"I loved the stability of these. I have a prior ankle injury on my left ankle, so jogging or lots of walking in a shoe that isn't supportive is scary for me. I didn't catch or stumble at all while wearing the shoes, and they felt good on multiple surfaces." &#;Ali Harney, Verywell Fit product tester
Our tester walks two to three miles daily when the weather is nice outside. She lives near a trail, walking through it most days. She walks as both exercise and part of her daily life. Our tester likes wearing Hoka or Saucony shoes to add jogging into her routine once in a while.
Verywell Fit/Alexander Huang
Best Men&#;s Budget
Asics Gel-Venture 8
PHOTO: Amazon
$70
Pros
Great shock absorption
Excellent traction
Versatile for roads or light trails
Cons
May run narrow
Not super sleek-looking
Key Specs
Weight: 10.5 ounces | Materials: Mesh, synthetic leather upper, foam and gel insole, synthetic outsole | Cushioning: Moderate | Closure: Lace-up | Drop: 10 millimeters | Our Overall Rating: 4.5/5
Who They&#;re For
Best if you need a durable shoe for road running and hiking on moderate trails.
Why We Love Them
Durable and versatile, Asics&#; Gel-Venture 8 shoes are rugged enough to handle road running, trail runs, and hiking on moderate trails. The grippy rubber outsole keeps us stable on uneven and wet surfaces, while the gel-cushioned midsole offers responsiveness and comfort. Plus, the mesh upper is reinforced with abrasion-resistant overlays&#;providing a snug and protective fit.
The shoe comes with a sock liner that we found molds to the shape of your fit, but it&#;s also removable if you wear orthotics. We love that the reverse-traction lugs offer even more protection and traction, without having to go over budget.
Also available in women&#;s sizes at Amazon, ASICS, and Dick&#;s.
Potential Flaws
"Shoes were very comfortable from the get-go. I have higher-than-average arches and found these shoes incredibly supportive and well-cushioned. The shoes maintained comfort throughout our various hikes and walks, providing great support and cushioning on multiple surfaces. I also found them to provide excellent balance on uneven terrain on hikes." &#;Cory Vancura, Verywell Fit product tester
The Asics Gel-Venture 8 shoe provides exceptional comfort, whether running or hiking, thanks to its cushioned foam-gel midsole and grippy outsole.
PHOTO: Verywell Fit / Allison Vancura
This shoe&#;s mesh and synthetic rubber upper is reinforced with abrasion-resistant overlays, making it incredibly durable.
PHOTO: Verywell Fit / Allison Vancura
This versatile shoe is available in several different width options and comes with a removable sock liner.
PHOTO: Verywell Fit / Allison Vancura
Best for Distance Running
Hoka Clifton 9
PHOTO: Hoka
Pros
Lightweight but supportive
Plush cushioning
APMA-approved
Cons
Wear with high socks to prevent blisters
Key Specs
Weight: 7.3 ounces | Materials: Recycled mesh upper, foam midsole, rubber outsole | Cushioning: Soft but responsive | Closure: Lace-up | Drop: 5 millimeters | Our Overall Rating: 4.2/5
Who They&#;re For
Best for distance runners who need a lightweight shoe with extra ankle support.
Why We Love Them
Distance runners need a lightweight, well-cushioned, durable shoe for hours of support and comfort&#;like HOKA&#;s Clifton 9, one of our favorite HOKA running shoes. During testing, we immediately liked the soft, step-in feel and foot-hugging comfort. The springy midsole feels extra responsive and allows for smooth transitions. And despite the plush cushioning and ample support, the shoes are surprisingly lightweight.
The rubber outsole helps with traction and impact protection, while the padded tongue and collar offer even more support and comfort. And we love that the tall heel tab makes getting the shoe on and off much easier. Plus, the APMA-approved shoe&#;s toe box offers plenty of room for your toes and forefoot to spread out, which keeps us steady and balanced.
Also available in men&#;s sizes at Amazon and HOKA.
Potential Flaws
Verywell Fit / Mark Pudenz
Best for Trail Running
Nike Zegama 2 Running Shoes
PHOTO: REI
Pros
Exceptional traction
Ankle collar offers extra protection
Versatile for trails or roads
Cons
If you are looking for more details, kindly visit boots for ankle support.
Breathability could be better
Key Specs
Weight: Women&#;s 9.3 ounces; men&#;s 11.3 ounces | Materials: Mesh, foam, rubber | Cushioning: Maximum | Drop: 4 millimeters | Our Overall Rating: 5/5
Who They&#;re For
Best for trail runners and hikers needing high traction and stability on rugged terrains.
Why We Love Them
Nike&#;s Zegama 2 Shoe helps limit excess movement and prevent ankle rolling on wet, uneven terrains. During test walks and runs, we immediately noticed how the shoe&#;s grippy traction kept us steady and confident on muddy, rocky, and grassy trails. We also liked how the shoe&#;s ankle collar hugged our ankles for extra support and stability while keeping out dirt and debris.
While this pair is designed for trail running, we found it was versatile for road running. The shoes also provided excellent grip and stability for activities requiring quick, lateral moves, such as pickleball. The toe box was wide enough for toes to splay, which also helps with maintaining balance and stability. Plus, the shoes&#; cushioning felt supportive and comfortable, keeping our feet and joints free from pain and fatigue during and after exercise.
Also available in men's sizes at Nike, REI, and Dick&#;s Sporting Goods.
Potential Flaws
&#;I felt incredibly stable in these shoes. I wasn't ever worried about slipping or twisting my ankle, even when jogging downhill in mud, or running zig-zag through narrow, rocky trails. Because of the high traction on the outer soles and the higher ankle fabric, I definitely trusted these shoes to keep my ankles secure.&#; &#;Abby Moore, Verywell Fit product tester
Our tester has flat feet, so she needs a stable shoe that prevents excess movement. She found that this shoe's comfortable cushioning, grippy traction, and supportive design kept her sure-footed and pain-free during trail walks and runs.
PHOTO: Verywell Fit / Abby Moore
PHOTO: Verywell Fit / Abby Moore
PHOTO: Verywell Fit / Abby Moore
PHOTO: Verywell Fit / Abby Moore
PHOTO: Verywell Fit / Abby Moore
PHOTO: Verywell Fit / Abby Moore
Best for Plantar Fasciitis
Hoka Women's Bondi 8
PHOTO: Hoka
Pros
Maximum cushioning
Very stable and durable
APMA-approved
Cons
Feels somewhat heavy
Not as springy as other options
Key Specs
Weight: 8.9 ounces | Materials: Partially recycled mesh upper, foam midsole, rubber outsole | Cushioning: Maximum | Closure: Lace-up | Drop: 4 millimeters | Our Overall Rating: 4.7/5
Who They&#;re For
Best if you have foot pain or plantar fasciitis and need a comfy, cushioned shoe for walking, running, and daily wear.
Why We Love Them
HOKA&#;s Bondi 8 Shoe delivers a comfy, stable ride that&#;s ideal for those who regularly experience foot pain, such as plantar fasciitis. The APMA-approved shoe&#;s plush yet supportive cushioning provides stellar shock absorption, which reduces the load on your plantar fascia. Plus, there's extra cushioning in the heel that offers even more ankle protection.
During wear tests, we noticed the snug, secure fit right away. We appreciate the shoe's pillowy tongue and memory foam collar, enhancing its comfort and support. The breathable mesh upper is protective, while the durable rubber outsole provides grippy traction on various surfaces. As one of our favorite shoes for plantar fasciitis, you can&#;t go wrong with this pick.
Also available in men&#;s sizes at Amazon, HOKA, and REI.
Potential Flaws
"I would feel comfortable wearing these on uneven terrain. My foot did not slide around at all. They were wide enough to provide support without being too wide that my foot felt loose or unstable." &#;Donna Freydkin, Verywell Fit product tester
The Hoka Bondi 8 provides plenty of soft cushioning, including extra in the heel, working well for those with foot pain.
PHOTO: Verywell Fit / Tamara Staples
This APMA-approved sneaker feels heavier compared to others, so it may not be ideal for those who prefer a more lightweight option.
PHOTO: Verywell Fit / Tamara Staples
This shoe features an airy mesh upper and a grippy rubber outsole that can handle various ground with ease.
PHOTO: Verywell Fit / Tamara Staples
Best for Hiking
Arc'teryx Aerios FL 2 Mid GTX Hiking Shoe
PHOTO: Zappos
Pros
Mid height provides good ankle support
Excellent traction
Waterproof
Cons
Laces are not easy to tie
Key Specs
Weight: 13 ounces | Materials: Recycled polyester mesh upper, foam midsole, rubber outsole | Cushioning: Medium | Closure: Lace-up | Drop: Not listed | Our Overall Rating: 4.6/5
Who They&#;re For
Best for hikers who need extra ankle support on and off the trail.
Why We Love them
Arc&#;teryx&#;s Aerios Mid GTX Shoes are durable, supportive, and protective for hiking on- and off-road. The mid-cut height helps support the ankles, while the integrated support shank provides torsional stability (meaning stability in the midfoot of the shoe) to keep you balanced and stable on uneven surfaces. In fact, we think it's one of the best hiking shoes out there.
During test hikes, our feet and ankles felt well-supported and protected on various terrains. And the waterproof membrane kept our feet dry and comfortable, without causing any overheating or excess sweating. Plus, we found that the durable rubber outsole provides exceptional traction, adding to the shoe&#;s overall safety.
Also available in women&#;s sizes at Amazon and Zappos.
Potential Flaws
"My feet and ankles were well supported and I feel like I could wear them for even longer hikes. There was also sufficient arch support." &#;Dylan Thompson, Verywell Fit product tester
PHOTO: Verywell Fit / Dylan Thompson
PHOTO: Verywell Fit / Dylan Thompson
PHOTO: Verywell Fit / Dylan Thompson
Best Traction
Hoka Men's Gaviota 5
PHOTO: Amazon
Pros
Maximum stability
Very durable and sturdy
Padded tongue and collar
Cons
May feel tight in some areas
Could be more breathable
Key Specs
Weight: Men&#;s 10.9 ounces; Women&#;s 9.1 ounces | Materials: Jacquard mesh, foam, rubber | Cushioning: Maximum | Drop: 6 millimeters | Our Overall Rating: 4.4/5
Who They&#;re For
Best for walkers, light hikers, and runners who value style and traction.
Why We Love Them
If you need a shoe with exceptional traction and stability, we recommend Hoka&#;s Gaviota 5. It features the brand's H-frame structure that prevents the foot from rolling inward, as well as a wider platform that adds to the shoe&#;s overall stability and safety. During testing, we were impressed with the shoe&#;s durable rubber outsole, which offered reliable grip, even on wet surfaces.
With plush cushioning and a thick sole, this shoe offered solid comfort and impact protection during our walks and runs. The padded collar and tongue added even more ankle-cradling support. We also liked that the attractive style suits both athletic and casual wear. Like some of our other favorites, the Gaviota 5 has also earned the APMA&#;s Seal of Acceptance for its comfortable, supportive design.
Also available in women's sizes at Dick&#;s Sporting Goods, Hoka, and Fleet Feet.
Potential Flaws
&#;The shoe&#;s grips were very good for court surfaces. I seemed to stop quickly on surfaces even when it was wet. The was absolutely no wear to the soles&#;I think they will outperform the rest of the shoe.&#; &#;Kyle Wegner, Verywell Fit product tester
Our tester has weak ankles and a history of gout in his feet, so he looks for running shoes that are well-made and supportive. He appreciated the Gaviota 5&#;s stability and grippy traction, which kept him feeling confident when walking or running on various surfaces.
This supportive shoe features H-Frame technology, which helps prevent the ankles from rolling inward.
PHOTO: Verywell Fit / Kimberly Souza
Hoka&#;s Men&#;s Gaviota 5 feels very comfortable to run in, thanks to its thick, supportive cushioning and wide platform.
PHOTO: Verywell Fit / Kimberly Souza
PHOTO: Verywell Fit / Kyle Wegner
PHOTO: Verywell Fit / Kyle Wegner
PHOTO: Verywell Fit / Kyle Wegner
PHOTO: Verywell Fit / Kyle Wegner
Best Cushioning
New Balance Men's Cross Training Shoes
PHOTO: Courtesy of Zappos
Pros
Excellent impact protection
Secure but comfortable fit
Budget-friendly
Cons
May feel heavy
Key Specs
Weight: Men&#;s 13.7 ounces | Materials: Leather/suede, foam, rubber | Cushioning: Maximum | Drop: Not listed | Our Overall Rating: 5/5
Who They&#;re For
Best for those who need a sturdy, durable shoe with excellent impact protection and comfort for exercise and casual wear.
Why We Love Them
We like New Balance&#;s 608v5 Shoe for its solid impact protection, reliable support, and budget-friendly price. During testing, we found that the shoe&#;s plush, supportive cushioning kept our feet and joints free from pain and fatigue. Our tester, who has a history of ankle, knee, and heel injuries, felt comfortable and confident during high-impact activities, such as running on concrete sidewalks.
We liked how the shoe&#;s cushioning and upper hugged the contours of our feet for a secure but not constricting fit. Even when wearing this pair for 12 hours during a music festival in hot weather, they felt supportive and breathable, with no discomfort, rubbing, or chafing. We were also impressed with the shoe&#;s sturdy, durable outsole, which provided good traction on various surfaces, including grass, pavement, and gym floors.
Also available in women's sizes at New Balance and Amazon.
Potential Flaws
&#;I feel very confident in the shoe's ability to support my ankles. My feet just feel secure and supported in the shoe and so the worry of rolling or twisting is lessened so much, thanks to their sturdiness.&#; &#;Steven Roland, Verywell Fit product tester
Our tester has a previous ankle injury, as well as collapsing arches and a history of heel pain. He appreciated this pair&#;s stellar support and cushioning that kept him pain-free when walking, running, and standing for long periods.
PHOTO: Verywell Fit / Steven Roland
PHOTO: Verywell Fit / Steven Roland
PHOTO: Verywell Fit / Steven Roland
PHOTO: Verywell Fit / Steven Roland
PHOTO: Verywell Fit / Steven Roland
Best for the Gym
Ryka Devotion XT Mid Top
PHOTO: Amazon
$100
Pros
Comfortable cushioning
Padded ankle collar
Wide toe box for added stability
Cons
Strap may get loose during high-intensity workouts
Key Specs
Weight: 9.5 ounces | Materials: Mesh upper, foam midsole, rubber outsole | Cushioning: Maximum | Drop: 8 millimeters | Our Overall Rating: 4.4/5
Who They&#;re For
Best for walking and low- to moderate-impact exercises.
Why We Love Them
For excellent comfort and support during gym workouts, we recommend Ryka&#;s Women's Devotion XT Mid Top Training Shoe. During testing, we immediately noticed the shoe&#;s cloud-like comfort from its thick, plush midsole cushioning. We also found that the high, padded ankle collar offered extra support for walking, as well as workouts such as strength training and cardio classes.
Meanwhile, the shoe&#;s durable rubber outsole improved overall stability, providing reliable traction on gym floors. The roomy toe box offers plenty of space for toes to splay, allowing for a stable base during strengthening workouts. We also like that the shoe&#;s cool, attractive design works for both athletic and casual wear.
Potential Flaws
&#;This shoe provides good stability, and cushioning, and fit for my daily exercises, including walking, strength training, and cardio dance. I feel like I&#;m walking on a cloud.&#; &#;Jinfeng Chen, Verywell Fit product tester
Our tester has a previous ankle injury so she needs a shoe with good stability for activities such as walking, strength training, and cardio dance classes. She appreciated this pair&#;s comfortable cushioning and support when she wore them for both athletic and casual activities.
PHOTO: Verywell Fit / Jinfeng Chen
PHOTO: Verywell Fit / Jinfeng Chen
PHOTO: Verywell Fit / Jinfeng Chen
PHOTO: Verywell Fit / Jinfeng Chen
PHOTO: Verywell Fit / Jinfeng Chen
If you want to learn more, please visit our website carbon fiber leg prosthetic.