10 Best Running Shoes For Ankle Supports 2026 in the United States

The Brooks Women’s Adrenaline GTS 25 is designed with runners and walkers in mind who need dependable ankle support and comfort. Its standout feature is the GuideRails holistic support system, which helps keep your foot aligned and limits excess movement, benefiting those prone to ankle instability. The ankle collar is flat-knit and breathable, offering a snug but flexible fit that supports natural motion without feeling restrictive.

The shoe’s heel counter is firm enough to provide good stability, helping reduce the risk of ankle rolls. Cushioning is a strong point here, thanks to the nitrogen-infused DNA Loft v3 midsole, which delivers a soft but responsive feel for smooth, comfortable transitions with every step. Arch support is well considered, making it suitable for those who need extra control during runs or walks. The fit tends to be true to size with a roomy toe box, which many will appreciate for long wear.

Traction comes from a durable rubber outsole designed to grip well on various surfaces, though it might not be ideal for very slick or rugged terrain. Since it holds the APMA Seal of Acceptance and is certified diabetic-friendly, it’s a solid choice for users needing extra foot care. The shoe’s support and cushioning are excellent for moderate activities but may feel a bit firm for those wanting a plush feel or for high-impact trail running. Additionally, those with very wide feet might find the fit a bit narrow. This makes the Brooks Adrenaline GTS 25 a reliable, comfortable option that balances support and softness, ideal for daily running or walking shoes.

The Brooks Women’s Adrenaline GTS 24 is a strong contender for runners needing good ankle support. Its Guiderails Holistic Support System helps keep your foot and ankle aligned by limiting excess movement, which is great if you want to avoid ankle rolling. The shoe features nitrogen-infused DNA Loft v3 midsole cushioning, providing a soft yet responsive feel that adapts well to your stride, making long runs more comfortable. The engineered air mesh upper offers a snug but breathable fit, helping with comfort and reducing sweat build-up.

In terms of ankle collar and heel counter support, while the shoe doesn’t highlight extra-high collars, its structured heel and supportive upper materials provide enough stability for most runners with mild to moderate ankle needs. The arch support aligns with Brooks’ typical design, catering well to neutral to mildly overpronated feet, which suits many users. Traction is handled by a rubber outsole designed for smooth transitions, which should work well on pavement and light trails but may not be ideal for very uneven or slippery surfaces.

The fit comes in a medium width, so if you have very narrow or wide feet, you might want to try it on first. It is certified for diabetic foot care but might be slightly heavier than minimalist shoes, which some runners prefer for speed. This shoe is ideal for women seeking dependable ankle support through a combination of cushioning and controlled motion, especially for running on roads or well-maintained paths.

The Hoka Men's Bondi 9 is a popular running shoe known for its plush cushioning, thanks to its Ethylene Vinyl Acetate midsole which provides solid shock absorption. This helps reduce stress on the ankles during runs. The engineered mesh outer material offers breathability, keeping feet cool and comfortable. While the shoe has a moderately padded ankle collar, it may not offer the firm, structured ankle support some runners with serious ankle issues might need. The heel counter is present but not heavily reinforced, so it stabilizes the heel reasonably well but doesn't lock it in place tightly. Arch support is supportive but on the neutral side, making this shoe suitable for runners with normal arches rather than those needing extra correction.

The fit is generally true to size, and the medium width should accommodate most feet comfortably without feeling too tight or loose. Traction is decent for road running with a lightweight outsole designed for smooth pavement rather than rugged terrain. This makes the Bondi 9 an excellent choice if you want cushioned comfort and moderate ankle support for everyday running on roads. However, if you require strong ankle stability or specialized arch support, you might want to explore shoes designed specifically for those needs.