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

The Brooks Men’s Adrenaline GTS 24 is a solid choice for runners looking for reliable ankle support while maintaining comfort. Its standout feature is the Guiderails holistic support system, which helps keep your feet aligned and limits excess ankle movement, making it easier to avoid twists or rolls. The shoe uses nitrogen-infused DNA Loft v3 cushioning in the midsole, providing a soft yet responsive feel that adapts to your stride, which benefits both comfort and shock absorption around the ankle area. The heel counter is firm enough to stabilize the back of the foot without feeling too rigid, supporting the ankle well during runs. The ankle collar is designed with engineered air mesh, offering a breathable and slightly stretchy fit that doesn’t squeeze, which helps prevent irritation around the ankle.

Arch support is moderate, suitable for runners with normal to slightly high arches, but might not fully satisfy those needing strong arch correction. Fit and sizing follow standard medium width, so if you have particularly narrow or wide feet, you might want to try them on first. Traction is dependable thanks to the rubber sole and new outsole design, providing good grip on roads and light trails, which enhances stability during movement. One thing to note is the shoe’s weight at about 1.5 pounds—it’s not the lightest option out there but balances weight with cushioning well.

This shoe is ideal for runners who want supportive cushioning and moderate ankle stability during regular training or longer runs, especially if you value comfort and smooth foot transitions.

The ASICS Women's Gel-Kayano 32 is designed with stability and comfort in mind, making it a solid choice for runners seeking good ankle support. Its engineered mesh upper ensures lightweight breathability, keeping feet cooler without feeling weighed down. The ankle collar is complemented by a knit heel pull tab that provides a snug and comfortable fit around the ankle, making it easier to put on and take off. The 4D Guidance System acts like a smart support pod that adapts to your foot's movement, enhancing stability which is important for protecting your ankle during runs.

The rearfoot PureGEL technology offers soft cushioning that is about 65% gentler than standard GEL, reducing impact on heels and ankles with each step. The 3D Space Construction adds a softer feel underfoot, promoting better foot strike and comfort. ASICS Gel-Kayano models are known for their moderate arch support, making them suitable for many foot types. The outsole’s rubber sole provides reliable traction for various surfaces.

While the shoe provides excellent cushioning and dynamic stability features, runners who require very firm ankle support may consider additional braces. The shoe generally fits true to size, though trying them on is recommended to ensure the best fit for your foot shape. These shoes offer a comfortable option for runners who want supportive running footwear that helps protect the ankles without feeling bulky.

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.