The best running shoes for bad ankles depend on the type of ankle pain you have.

[Last Updated May-1-2023]

However, podiatrists define 4 types where of ankle pain where having shoes can help in reducing symptoms. If you have arthritis in your ankle, unstable ankles, because of high arches,  and overpronated (flat) foot. These are some conditions where having specific shoes for your ankle pain can contribute to eliminating symptoms.

However, shoes might not be the primary focus when treating any medical disorder. It is rare that shoes alone treat medical disorders. It is part of an overall treatment with rehabilitation exercises, stretches, arch support, and proper rest.

See 3 Common ankle running injuries and their treatments

Can Shoes Help With Weak Ankles?

No matter what causes you weak ankles, After surgery, bad joints? or other conditions. but, One thing is for sure. It stops you to enjoy your running sessions. The stiff, painful muscles make walking hard so running is not bearable for them.

If you are a runner or someone who workout regularly will try any way possible to cope with these injuries. Unfortunately, there is no tool that can eliminate your ankle injury. However, with the right shoes, They can provide the ankle support that they need without negatively impacting the ride.

Below we have suggested some specific running shoes for ankle pain, they are recommended by doctors and running experts after running 50 miles in them. But, if you don’t feel extra support or relief after a few runs, we recommend you stop and consult your doctor or podiatrist.

6 Best Running Shoes For Bad Ankles in 2023

1. New Balance Fresh Foam 1080 V12 – Best For Unstable Ankles

Overview

The New Balance Fresh Foam series has always been an image of a Fresh feeling just after wearing it. and, this version continues the same pattern. There are some design changes but the purpose is still the same, offering maximum comfort to neutral runners.

Who should use it?

As mentioned above, The New Balance Fresh foam 1080v12 is best for natural runners looking for a “soft and plush” ride. As the shoe weighs around 290+ grams so picking a place in them is not the ideal thing, otherwise you can do anything your foot like to do. From daily runs, stand 8 to 12 hours daily, easy mileage running to marathon races.

Who should not use it?

These are not ideal for you if:

• You are looking for a lot of stability
• Looking for lightweight fast shoes
• you have Hallux rigidus because of the toe spring

Is it Good for Unstable ankles?

New Balance Fresh Foam 1080v12 is a podiatrist recommends shoes for ankle-related issues due to their shape. The forefoot rocker shape emphasizes your foot rolling forward helps to reduce the strain on the ankle joint.

with 8mm, decent heel drop, and bevel heal design also contribute to taking the stress away from the ankle making it comfortable to run with ankle pain.

Updates from the Previous Version

The New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080v12 has some improvements over 1080v11. The upper has been redesigned to provide better support and reduce pressure on the heel, but this has made the shoe slightly heavier.

However, it still weighs less than 300 grams. Overall, while the weight has increased, the shoe’s improvements make it a good choice for runners looking for a reliable and comfortable running shoe.

What to Consider

• It seems like the latest version of the New Balance 1080s has changed its sizing, and many reviewers have noticed that it runs bigger than the previous versions

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• Good combination of cushion comfort & Support
• Can accommodate custom orthotics
• The stretchy knit upper is very comfortable

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• Might have to size up

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2. Brooks Addiction GTS 15 – Best Motion Control

Overview

The Brooks Addiction GTS 15 is a shoe that provides stability and control with an ample amount of cushioning. It is a popular one as it is recommended by different podiatrists for people who need help with lower body discomfort.

Brooks has introduced a “Guide Rail system” in this version that guides the foot in a natural way that is gentle on the joints.

Who Should Use it

If you are looking for a great cushioning shoe that can control your heavy body or give extra support for pronating runners, you can stop your research and give a try to this. It can be ideally used for daily walking/jog and even running long distances at an easy pace. It is not ideal for fast pace running due to the heavyweight and stiff outsole.

Who Should not use it

Dont look for this if:

• you are looking for a lightweight fast shoe
• looking for a more natural ride

Is it good for bad ankles?

Brooks Adrenaline GTS 15 is a certified PDAC A5500 Diabetic shoe. This shoe is really helping a lot of runners in healing heel plantar fasciitis and ankle pain due to Side rail tracks. It allows the foot to move naturally and stop ankles from rolling.

Updates From the Previous Version

Brooks has made 2 significant updates from GTS 14 to 15. The most significant update is introducing GuideRails over the traditional roll bar. This change made the shoe more supportive and provide adequate support for your hips, knees, and joints to move naturally while you walk or run.

Also, This version is slightly lighter than the previous version.

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• Can’t be more stable than this
• Great impact protection
• Great lockdown and secure fit

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• Heavyweight

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3. Asics GT 2000 9 – Best For Flat Feet

Asics GT 2000 9 Review

Shoe Specification

Asics GT 2000 9 is one of the oldest running shoe series alive for nearly 30 years. It is a lightweight yet max-cushioned running that helps with day-to-day running and even for marathon finishers.

For runners with lower arches, flat feet, and overpronating runners looking for dependable shoes to run, it is a great model to rely on.

Who should use it?

If you are in search of a durable, stable, road running shoe for daily needs, running 5k, tempo runs. This model from Asics is ready to meet your needs

It’s a shoe that fits 99% needs of all runners. Need to improve pace interval running? Need some comfort with long runs? Casual running, Even as a hiking shoe. This shoe is suitable for that as well! It is ready for everywhere you want your feet to take you.

Why best for bad ankles

It’s a great model to run with ankle pain because of its heel section. The gel cushioning is found in the heel areas, which offers great shock absorption and a stable ride. Also, The footbed of this unit has been pulled sharply to provide a better step-in feel. There are also gender-specific differences in the forefoot of the footbed to better accommodate the runner.

One-piece mesh construction has been redesigned for better fit and went true to size and hugs you well after finding the sweet spot in lacing. since you are the one who feels conscious of ankle support, and Achilles tightness. don’t worry as the heel felt reliable and comfy. It just locks your heels even if your laces are a bit loose or tight.

What get Change

There is not much difference between Both ASICS GT 20008 and 9. Just the aesthetic changes at the top don’t affect the performance, just look better.

However, One-piece mesh construction appreciates by most runners for improved fit but not by wide-foot runners. They claimed that it shrank the toe box and feels limited even after going half size up. And, narrow or natural feet get good snug and secure fit shoes with good space in the toe box to wiggle.

Just this, All other technologies are the same as the previous ones. The Dynamic DuoMax, Trusstic, GEL, and Flytefoam technologies all made their way into the GT-2000 9.

One thing that gets good is that it’s slightly lightweight than the previous one.

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• spacy toe box.
• comfortable and provides good foot protection.
• Good arch support

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• Tight shoe for wide feet runners

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4. Saucony Cohesion 13 – Best Budget Model

Shoe Specification

Saucony Cohesion 10 Review

Saucony Cohesion 10 are not very advance high in tech running shoes for extreme needs. but, an affordable yet comfortable running shoe that neutral runners can rely on.

If your search is related to high-cushioned shoes for basic to intermediate usage, you’ve found a great pair that can handle your needs.

Who Should use it

As mentioned above that they are ideal for most basic uses which include.

• Basic daily runs
• Need a shoe for rotation.
• Casual runs
• Running 5k to 10k
• HITT, elliptical training, weight lifting, and other similar gym uses.
• Heel Strikers

Who Should not use it

Since its ideal for most basic needs, it may not excel as

• Fast pace running shoe
• marathon shoe
• Stable shoe to fix pronation or overpronation
• you have a high arch.

Why Best for Bad Ankles

Without disturbing the monthly budget it comes with features that help when running with bad ankles. A higher drop indicates more cushioning in the heel and the heel itself is stable and supportive. An ample amount of cushioning can dampen the effect of running even on surfaces like concrete and asphalt.

It is not designed for motion control shoes but some features contribute to shoe stability. The upper has strategically placed a variety of overlays, mostly focused on the heel which makes this shoe stable.

It offers a secured fit and comes with a standard size that adopts most of the runner’s feet easily. The toe box is roomy and offers really secure midfoot feel. As you are looking for something supportive for your ankle so the heel offers enough security and holds your foot at a place really well.

What’s Get Good

A major update that a Saucony made with this model is its outsole. It offers an Additional tri-flex system. with this update, It allows you to absorb shocks, even more, traction got improved, and makes a shoe flexible.

A minor con with this outsole is that it slips on wet roads.

What to Consider

Yes! It’s time to find the nitpicking of the shoes. Overall, the shoe is not bad at all honestly, great everything is according to its price. But, the thing is they don’t last long. Most runners claimed that their average life of them is 8 to 10 months on regular usage.

One thing more is the insole felt flat and had minimum arch support. But, the insole is removable so if you wish to use custom orthotics, you can do so.

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• great shock absorbers
• Perfect for basic to intermediate runners
• Offers some premium features in the budget model

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• Grip lack on wet Surfaces

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5. Mizuno Wave Inspire 17 – Best For Heavy Runners

Mizuno Wave Inspire 17 Review

Shoe Specification

The Mizuno Wave Inspire 17 is built for stability and to run more miles on the road. If you are those who have flat feet and overpronate and wish for a secure and stable ride. This is a good option for you.

It runs true to size with enough room in the toe box. with the previous versions of Mizuno, runners had complaints about their tiny box. But, It has been resolved with this version.

Who should use it

Mizuno Wave Inspire 17 is well recommended for stable runs, and for those who overpronate, flat feet runners, heel strikers, or heavyweight runners, who are looking for additional durability in the outsole.

Why best running shoes for bad ankles

The heel counter locks your feet really well and reduces slips in long runs. The heel part and stability of their outsole inspire us to put these shoes in the category of people who needs more support around their ankles.

It has a great amount of cushioning and is overall responsive, which makes it perfect to use for slick sidewalks. This is an inspiring feature to see us isn’t often seen in other stable running pairs.

The outsole has designed for bulky runners who need a little something extra on their shoes. It is made up of X10 carbon rubber, which is used by higher-end running shoes as it makes the shoes really durable. You can expect to run hundred of miles without any signs of wear and tear.

What to Consider

However, The upper has been redesigned to make it ventilated. but unfortunately, It still feels hot in the summers. In winter, The upper will give a warm and cozy feeling. but when the sun is on your head, It runs hot.

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• The heel counter locks the shoe really well and provides a stable ride.
• The amount of cushioning found in the tongue and heel is on point.
• Great Heal Stability

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• A bit heavy

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6. Saucony Endorphin Shift – Best For Ankle Arthritis

Shoe Specification

Saucony Endorphin Shift Review

As it is named after happy hormones “Endorphins” that our brain releases to reduce stress and relieve pain. The shoes do pretty much the same right after wearing them.

It offers great cushioning yet is a fast pace running shoe to help with tempo and as well slow-paced runs.

Who should use it

The Saucony Endorphin Shift offers speed with a great amount of cushioning for longer recovery runs. The amount of cushioning in it falls into the heavyweight shoe category. If you don’t understand heavyweight and lightweight shoes, look for how much running shoes should weigh.

This model from Saucony is suitable for runners with mild overpronation finding something stable, durable, and rocker outsole shoe. It is a budget model shoe compared to other stable running shoes so don’t expect it to smooth as brooks ghost.

Why best for bad Arthritis

If you are looking for specific shoes for ankle arthritis, They must eliminate the stress on the joint when hitting on hard surfaces. It can be with additional cushioning and a solid outer sole. Also, The forefoot does not tend to bend when you push the front of the shoe. Out of all, We find the Hoka One One series and Saucony endorphin match this category well. we are reviewing Saucon but you can look for Hokas as well.

To keep the ankle in place, It utilizes a TPU heel counter which locked your foot and doesn’t add weight to the shoes. It does a good job and the heel does not shift during rides.

What to Consider

• The tread on the bottom is not great on wet surfaces.

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• Firm cushion yet comfortable
• It supports the ankle really well
• Cute Design

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• Slippery on wet surfaces

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How To Pick The Best Running Shoes For Bad Ankles ( Complete Buying Guide)

When looking for the best running shoes for bad ankles, There are many features to focus on to ensure you get the right supportive pair for your bad ankles.

With support, Aim for support that provides proper support throughout the shoe, and not just around your ankle. With the soles, Aim for a medium-thick sole for stability even with weak muscles. If you are an older runner you must consult a doctor that if you go for it or not and run in the morning.

These are the keen features that a shoe for a bad ankle and weak ankle must have. However, there are other features as well to consider such as:

Aim For High Or Mid-Top Shoes Instead of Low Top

The low-top shoes offer a very amount of ankle support which is not suitable for someone recovering from an ankle injury.

On the other hand, High-top shoes offer a good amount of support around angels and provide stability to the shoes. Study conducted in this manner results that the foot inverts less if the runner is wearing high-top shoes.

Compared to low-top shoes, mid-top shoes offer enough amount of support, comfort, and cushioning without the restriction that comes with high-top ones.

Responsiveness

Whenever you read the word responsiveness with shoes, It means a shoe that can fulfill your most needs. These are the shoes that’ll provide support and comfort and stability no matter which terrain you are running on. Asics GT 2000 9 from the list above will be considered a good responsive shoe.

Everyone’s foot is different, Everyone’s needs are different, and Not all of them like to run on the same terrain. It doesn’t mean we tend to have 10 pairs of shoes. A good running shoe must be capable to handle multiple tasks.

Flexibility

Another factor you need to keep in mind before purchasing the best running shoes for bad ankles is the level of flexibility offered. You want support as you are not allowing the ankles to move. at the same, if running on different terrain, we need some sort of flexibility.

The shoe which offers better flexibility allows the runner to have a better grip when hitting the ground.

Durability

There are many brands that can be trusted for durability. Durability doesn’t just refer to the strength of the shoe. But, also your ability to endure the wear and tear and make sure it doesn’t collapse in the middle of a session.

FAQ’s

Why do my ankles hurt when I run?

“There can be many reasons for this, from your running shoes to your running form to fatigue. If it’s a sharp pain, I recommend you see a doctor. Just remember that they will find something and recommend a treatment. Once you begin a treatment plan, this will likely become a reason to limit your efforts. I suggest you use your free time to give your ankles more rest by being on your feet as little as possible. I also think that maybe you should just rate your running shoes. You may just need to run with something else. Again, there are a number of reasons for ankle pain while running. all possible reasons until you find a workable solution.”