Support
is an important part of any basketball shoe. When the lock isn’t as secure,
sprints become shaky, throws become inconsistent, and the whole game just falls
apart.

Therefore,
sports shoe manufacturers such as Nike and Adidas equip their products with
several support features. On this page, we present basketball shoes that
provide the most reliable ankle support.

Even
though science has proven that collar height has little impact on the amount of
support a shoe provides, players still prefer mid-to-high tops for added ankle
support.

Thus,
through extensive testing, we have come up with the ultimate list of supportive
basketball shoes. From researching and purchasing the shoe to testing it
in our lab and beyond, these shoes have been through a lot to get here!

Best Basketball Shoes for Ankle Support

All
amateur and professional basketball players are well aware of this: basketball
is a traumatic sport, especially for the ankles and knees. 

Ankle sprains can
have different levels of severity, ranging from a mild ankle sprain that will
prevent you from practicing your favorite sport for a few days to a severe
sprain that can immobilize you for several months.

If
you are affected by these recurring problems of ankle injuries but want to
continue playing basketball, you must, of course, have suitable physical
preparation with solid rehabilitation, but the choice of your basketball shoe
will also be able to promote a serene return to the parquet floors and
playgrounds.

WHAT
TYPE OF BASKETBALL SHOE DO YOU WEAR WHEN YOU HAVE ANKLE PROBLEMS?

Few
basketball players have practiced the sport over the long term without ever
spraining their ankle. 

The objective of this guide is to give you the
information to choose the Best basketball shoe for Ankle Support that will limit these risks as much
as possible.

This choice must be accompanied by the advice of a
health specialist (physiotherapist) in order to adopt the most suitable driving
style for your situation. In addition, we, of course, specify that the risk of
injury does not exist, whatever the shoe you choose.

Ultimately,
the choice of your shoe should take into account two important criteria: The
level of ankle support provided by the model as well as the quality of its
cushioning system. 

A quality support system will reduce the risk of twisting
your ankle, especially during directional changes or pivot movements. 

Quality
cushioning will limit joint trauma when landing layups, rebounds, and dunks.
That being said, we offer a selection of recent basketball shoes that we
believe perform well.

The
Best Basketball Shoes with Ankle Support

Jordan
Zion 2

What
makes Jordan Zion 2 the  best basketball shoes for ankle support ?

We
have no hesitation in ranking the Jordan Zion 2 as the most valuable
ankle-support basketball shoe in our database. She turned out to be as reliable
as she looked. 

The collar and heel counter secure the foot. Even though the
high collar covered most of the body, the breathable upper kept our feet from
overheating. 

The torsionally stiff outsole and well-locked forefoot further
enhance the foot’s hold.

The
rear of the foot was securely protected by the durable heel pad. 

To better
evaluate its stiffness, we squeezed and twisted the back of the shoe in the
laboratory. It’s safe to say that rating this shoe below a 5 for stiffness
would be completely unfair.

In
addition, the generously padded outsole provides a comfortable fit for your
foot.

Available on Amazon

We
put the Jordan Zion 2 through a smoke test. We pumped smoke into them and then
tracked which parts of the top the smoke came out through.

Smoke
not only escaped through key areas such as the toe, tongue, and sidewalls but
also rose upward at a faster rate. On the court, these results translate into
impressive breathability and overall comfort.

After
aggressively twisting the Zion 2 in the lab, we were amazed at how durable it
was. We give it a 5 out of 5 for torsional rigidity, which translates very
well to incredible stability and a more consistent drive to the
basket. 

This already amazing feeling has been complemented by forefoot
straps that take away any questions about the support of the shoe.

(387
The weight of the sneakers, I must say, was disappointing. At 15.2 ounces (431
grams), it is significantly heavier than the average basketball shoe, which
weighs only 13.7 ounces (387 grams).

Adidas
Dame 8

What
makes it the best?

The
support provided by the Adidas Dame 8 was simply excellent. In addition to
a fairly wide platform, which effectively prevents us from twisting and
rolling, the sneakers have a collar that securely wraps around the ankle
area. 

The footbed is also wide enough to accommodate the needs of people
with wide feet. With all these benefits, we declare the Dame 8 to be the
best basketball shoe with ankle support for wide feet.

In the laboratory, we measured the dimensions of the base. Calipers showed
forefoot and heel widths of 119 mm and 99.1 mm, respectively. 

Thus, these areas
are wider than average by 7.3 mm and 8.5 mm, respectively. Thanks to this
configuration, slippage from the insole was the least of our problems. 

Indeed,
the surface area was sufficient to maintain stability even during aggressive
side-to-side movement.

The
lining in the collar not only provided comfort but also securely fixed the
ankle joints. We enjoyed both comfort and support, even while moving around the
court quite actively.

The
caliper also measured the toe width of the upper at 100.4mm. 

The heel, in turn,
has a width of 78.8 mm. The average shoe width is 98.8 mm and 77.5 mm,
respectively. Those with wide feet will be delighted with these shoes.

Basketball
shoes with ankle support and the best traction

Nike
KD 15

Available on Amazon

What
makes Nike KD 15 the best?

Just
because it’s low-cut doesn’t mean the Nike KD 15 skimps on heel and ankle
support. On the contrary, fixation in these areas was excellent during our
games. 

What’s even more remarkable is the fact that these basketball shoes
were rated so highly for their traction on both indoor and outdoor
courts. 

In fact, the KD 15 has the best traction of any basketball shoe
for ankle support.

In
the lab, the KD 15 received a heel stiffness rating of 4 on a scale of 5, with
5 being the stiffest. 

During play, we felt that the heel counter provided
good support for the rear of the foot, preventing it from slipping and going
where it shouldn’t. 

The ample amount of padding around the collar not only
ensured comfort but also provided a secure fit to the back of the foot. We
didn’t have to worry about heel slippage or anything like that while playing.

Of
course, how can you forget about grip? In this regard, the boots were simply an
unforgiving monster. Even dust wasn’t much of a problem for her. 

Whether it was
rubbed or not, the sole continued to grip and provide us with the traction we
needed. We were very pleased that the sole was stiffer than usual, so we used
this shoe outdoors without any problems! Our HC Durometer measured the sole hardness
of the KD 15 at 83.0 (average 80.3).

The
Best Cheap Basketball Shoes with Ankle Support

Nike
Fly.By Mid 2

What
makes them the best?

Mid-2
The Nike Fly By Mid-2 is an affordable option for basketball players of all
skill levels. Competitive and recreational players alike will appreciate the
technology of the Nike Fly. By Mid 2. 

This is not a shoe for
“professional” players or even high-level athletes who require
precision shoe technology. 

However, it does have important features such as
above-average traction, good upper materials, a snug fit around the ankle, and
flexible cushioning.

Ankle
Support Basketball Shoes with Better Cushioning

Air
Jordan XXXVII

What
makes Air Jordan XXXVII the best?

There’s
always a lot of hype surrounding Air Jordan releases, and the Air Jordan 37
certainly deserves all the buzz it’s getting right now. 

It offers a fresh
new aesthetic and brings so much agility to indoor hard surface areas. Players
who are quick on their feet and like to vary their actions will excel in this
model.

WHAT ARE THE OTHER BEST BASKETBALL SHOES FOR ANKLES SUPPORT?

Among
the shoes that we had the chance to test recently, several models seem
particularly suitable if you have ankle problems: the Air Zoom GT Jump, the
Puma MB.01, as well as the Kyrie 7… We explain to you why

The
Nike Air Zoom GT Jump

The Air Zoom GT Jump is part of Nike‘s
“Greater Than” collection following the release of the Zoom GT
“Cut” and “Run”. 

The Air Zoom GT Jump promises to adapt to
the specific demands of modern basketball, which demands speed and power in all
positions, even indoors, in particular via increasingly frequent directional
changes. 

The pair offers an extraordinary level of cushioning while providing
excellent ankle and foot support. For more information on the shoe, discover
our test of the Nike Air Zoom GT Jump!

Brand: Nike

Model:
Nike Air Zoom GT Jump, All Colorways

Price: $250

SHOPAT AMAZON

The
Nike Kyrie 7

Kyrie
Irving’s 7th signature shoe has a Zoom Turbo cushion on its front part, as well
as another foam at the heel. The cushioning is good, and landings are soft and
painless, which is appreciable for players with fragile joints. 

To ensure good
support, a reinforcement is present at the level of the Achilles heel, and four
reinforcements are placed at the level of the laces, as well as an additional
reinforcement on the outside front of the shoe. 

The shoe is reassuring, and the
feeling of foot support is good. For more information, we recommend that you
consult our test of the Nike Kyrie 7!

Brand: Nike

Model:
Kyrie 7 (all colors)

Price: $130

SHOPAT AMAZON

The
Puma MB.01 – 

Basketball Shoes for Ankle Support-2023

Charlotte Hornets point guard LaMelo Ball’s first
signature shoe, the PUMA MB.01, was a worldwide hit, marking PUMA‘s
return to the forefront of basketball footwear. The shoe seems to us
to be ideal for players with fragile ankles since its level of support is very
good and it offers excellent absorption of landings, with its out sole using
PUMA’s Nitro Infused technology! For more information, we recommend that
you take a look at our review of the PUMA MB.01!

BUY AT AMAZON

Why
You Need Ankle Support in a Good Basketball Shoe

Basketball
is a fast-paced sport that requires quick movements, sharp throws, and
lightning-fast jumps.

With
these high-intensity activities, the risk of ankle injury is always present.

However, by choosing basketball shoes that provide adequate ankle support,
players can minimize the likelihood of sprains and other ankle-related
problems.

In
this detailed guide, we’ll look at the key factors to consider when choosing a
basketball shoe that prioritizes ankle support, helping you make an informed
decision for optimal results and injury prevention.

Understanding
ankle anatomy and injuries

A
Brief Overview of Ankle Anatomy

To
appreciate the importance of ankle support in basketball shoes, it is necessary
to understand the anatomy of the ankle and the common injuries associated with
this sport.

The
ankle is a complex joint made up of three bones, three major ligaments, and
three tendons that work together to provide movement.

How the ankle collar affects performance

Basketball
shoes have different upper designs, and each type provides a different level of
ankle support. In this section, we’ll look at the three main types of
basketball shoes: high-cut, mid-cut, and low-cut.

High
top

The
high-top basketball shoe features a long collar that provides unparalleled
ankle support and stability. In recent years, the popularity of high-top
sneakers has declined due to the development of the game and the desire of
players for maximum mobility.

Advantages:

• Limiting
  excessive eversion and dorsiflexion of the ankle joint

• Better
  energy absorption in the knees

• Great
  for players with a history of injuries.

• Better
  ankle impact protection

Flaws:

• More
  material means more weight.

• Limitation
  of mobility when moving

• Bulky
  compared to mid- and low-tops

Middle
top

Mid-top
basketball shoes strike a balance between ankle support and mobility, making
them suitable for players who value both aspects.

Advantages:

• Increased
  ankle mobility

• Moderate
  ankle support

• Super
  versatile and can offer the perfect combination of support and mobility
  depending on your playing style and position.

Flaws:

• Potentially
  limited impact protection

• Reduced
  ankle support compared to high tops

Low
top

Low-top
basketball shoes have a lower cut that prioritizes freedom of movement over
ankle support.

Advantages:

• Provides
  maximum ankle rotation

• Lightweight
  and flexible

• Suitable
  for players who rely on sharp cuts, speed, and agility

Flaws:

• Doesn’t
  help align the foot when landing.

• Minimal
  ankle support

• Minimal
  ankle protection

5 Components of Ankle Support in Basketball
Shoes

Heel
support stiffness and collar padding

A fairly
rigid and well-padded collar not only increases comfort but also provides
reliable ankle support, minimizes slippage, and promotes stability during
dynamic movements.

We
rate heel stiffness on a scale of 1–5, with 5 being the stiffest. The average rating
for basketball shoes is around 4.

Lateral
support and fixation mechanisms

The
support system in a basketball shoe plays a vital role in providing ankle
support. It includes various elements and mechanisms that secure the foot
in the shoe, providing a tight and stable fit.

An
effective bracing system minimizes unnecessary foot and ankle movements,
reducing the risk of ankle injuries during play.

Most
modern basketball shoes have sidewalls or overlays made of TPU or other
composite materials to help keep the foot locked into the shoe. They are often
paired with a rigid heel and support straps.

When
trying on basketball shoes, pay attention to how well the outer overlays, TPU
heel pad, and ankle collar lining wrap around your ankle and heel.

They
should provide a secure and comfortable fit, supporting the ankle without
causing discomfort.

Additional
support elements (velcro straps)

Many
boots provide lateral support through additional straps in the midfoot,
forefoot, and ankle. Strap systems can be a great option if you don’t want
to sacrifice sole flexibility and want to find a balance between support and
mobility.

Lacing
system

A
shoe is a key component of the fixation system of any sports shoe. Look for
basketball shoes that have a secure and adjustable lacing system. This will
allow you to choose a model according to your foot shape and preferences.

A
good lacing system should have multiple eyelets, especially those located
higher up on the upper, allowing for greater flexibility in adjusting to the
shape of the foot.

By
properly tightening the laces, you can achieve a snug fit that minimizes ankle
slippage and lateral movement while providing stability and support.

Ankle
and heel reinforcement

Let’s
say you found the perfect basketball shoe based on these considerations.

But
if you still need extra ankle support to boost your confidence on the court,
you have options.

1.    
Ankle braces

• Beneficial
  for players with ankle injuries, chronic instability, or those who require
  additional reinforcement. It may be awkward to play at first.

2.    
Ankle wraps and tapes

• Provides
  a more personalized fit and is more comfortable to play
  with. Depending on where support is needed, they may not provide as
  much rigidity as an ankle brace.

If
you are a player with a history of injuries, it will be difficult to go out on
the court and give it your all if you feel like your ankles are prone to
injury. These external accessories are a great option to explore.

Why
ankle support is subjective

Ankle
support in basketball shoes is subjective, as each shoe is designed to meet
specific needs.

Your
play style

It
is important to understand that your playing style may not always fully align
with the typical expectations for your position on the court.

For
example, many fullback players like to dribble, take contact, and set up
stances. Therefore, they need more cushioning and a stronger, longer ankle
collar.

Whereas
shoes like the Kyrie are designed for responsiveness rather than impact
reduction.

Our
injury history

This
question is quite obvious. Players who have a history of ankle injuries or
joint pain should choose a more secure ankle support. Again, this depends
entirely on the severity of the injury.

Comfort
and preferences

Some
players prefer soft, tactile cushioning, while others prefer a more flexible
feel. Some people find high ankle collars too restrictive.

Other
important points to consider

Yes,
ankle support is important for basketball. But you can have the most secure
collar design, and the risk of injury will still be present if these factors
are not taken into account.

Size
and fit

The
ideal basketball shoe should be comfortably tight. Enough so that the foot
cannot move in the shoe, but not so much as to impede blood
circulation. 

Properly fitting basketball shoes will help maintain proper
foot alignment when running and landing, which minimizes the risk of injury.

On
the other hand, if the shoes are too narrow for your feet, you will find that
you begin to lose your stability of movement.

In
our lab, we measure the toe width of every basketball shoe to tell you which
foot type it’s best suited for. We also carry a catalog of basketball
shoes available in sizes 2E Wide and 4E Extra-Wide.

Types
of shock absorption and impact protection

Ample
cushioning in the heel area contributes to both comfort and ankle
support. Quality shock-absorbing materials, such as foam or gel, absorb
impact forces, reducing stress on the ankle.

There
are many different iterations of similar cushioning technologies used in modern
basketball shoes. But here are the main ones:

Nike
Zoom Air

Nike
uses its renowned Zoom Air technology to provide responsive, low-profile
cushioning. Featuring strategic placement of pressurized air units in the toe,
heel, or both

AirNike
has released many different iterations of Zoom Air technology, such as the Zoom
Air Turbo in the Kyrie series. While there are many running shoes that offer
very comfortable Zoom cushioning, you should always try the shoe on to evaluate
the cushioning.

Surface
grip

If
you’ve played basketball, you know how frustrating it can be to play in shoes
that don’t have the traction that suits your style of play or the surface of
the court.

If
you play primarily on indoor courts, you’ll want to consider a softer outsole
with an aggressive hard-court traction pattern to combat dusty and slick indoor
court surfaces.

On
the other hand, when choosing shoes for black surfaces (outdoor courts), it is
better to avoid soft and translucent soles, as they will wear out faster on
more abrasive surfaces.

We
measure the thickness and hardness of the rubber outsole of each boot to better
understand its suitability for outdoor use.

Traditionally,
the herringbone traction pattern is considered to provide the best traction on
the court, and most major manufacturers use their iteration of this traction
pattern in the majority of their shoes.

Questions
and answers about ankle support in basketball shoes

Can
wearing basketball shoes with ankle support improve my performance on the
court?

Basketball
shoes with ankle support do not necessarily improve athletic
performance. There is anecdotal evidence that shoes with ankle support
reduce the risk of overuse injuries. Additionally, many players find that
shoes with good ankle support make it easier to play at maximum intensity.

Can
ankle braces or other external ankle support be worn with basketball shoes?

Yes,
the bands are designed to fit inside basketball shoes. However, we
recommend testing shoes with braces to ensure they are comfortable.

Note:
Some braces may take some getting used to.

How
do we test basketball shoes?

To
ensure the integrity of our statements and ratings, no review was written
without first playing with the shoes. Our experience on the court was the
main factor that determined the fate of basketball shoes in our
rankings. In addition, we take into account the following:

• We
  say no to free gifts.

Don’t
get us wrong; free shoes are nice, and we’ll always be grateful for them.
However, sponsorships can cloud our judgment. We, as reviewers, think it’s best
to keep sponsors at a distance.

• Results
  and data obtained by us during laboratory tests

Before
we complete our review and make a selection, we make sure to cut the shoes into
pieces and test them thoroughly. 

The values of various parameters obtained in
our laboratory help us to conclude which shoes are best suited for different
categories.

WHERE
SHOULD YOU GET YOUR BASKETBALL SHOE IF YOU HAVE ANKLE PROBLEMS?

You
therefore have a selection of three pairs of recent basketball shoes that will
allow you to limit the risk of ankle injuries. In general, the two major
criteria to monitor when you have fragile ankles are cushioning and ankle
support. 

Read Also:  Best Outdoor Basketball Shoes

If the choice of a quality shoe will not reduce the risk of injury to
zero, we strongly advise against using low-quality basketball shoes if you have
recurring ankle problems; this will considerably increase the risk. Relapse,
the basketball player’s nightmare…Checkout best basketball shoes