The Best Basketball Shoes for Ankle Support of 2024

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Are you wondering what shoes are best for ankle support when playing basketball? Are you having trouble finding shoes that give you the handles you need but also provide excellent ankle support? If you can answer yes to either of these questions, then you have come to the right place.  

Imagine playing basketball in a pair of converses.  With no ankle support, you would likely place a significant strain on your body as well as increasing your chance of injury. The right shoes can give players a boost in performance and decrease the chance of injury.  Basketball is an extremely physical sport in which athletes must take care of their bodies to have a long and successful career. 

Their bodies are always put under pressure, and therefore the top products are needed to keep them operating in tip-top shape.  The feet and ankles are critical areas of the body. The right shoes will not only help a player’s game but prevent them from getting foot and ankle injuries.  An excellent basketball shoe will also have a good grip and the right supportive cushions. 

This list will include several options for players who are looking to find basketball shoes with excellent ankle support.  Aside from providing you with a list of the best shoes for ankle support, we will also provide you with a variety of reasons why you should invest in quality basketball shoes.  All you must do is keep reading for this premium content.

If you want to get back to playing basketball, get our top pick basketball shoes for ankle support here.

Our Top Favorite
adidas Mens Harden Vol.4 Basketball Sneakers Shoes Casual - Grey - Size 7 D
Our Top Runner Up
adidas Dame 6 Shoe - Unisex Basketball Core Black/White
Our Top Value Pick
Under Armour Men's HOVR Havoc 2 Athletic Shoe, Black//White, 11.5 M US
Basketball Shoes
adidas Harden Volume 4
adidas Dame 6
Under Armour HOVR Havoc 2
Prime Eligible?
-
-
-
Our Top Favorite
adidas Mens Harden Vol.4 Basketball Sneakers Shoes Casual - Grey - Size 7 D
Basketball Shoes
adidas Harden Volume 4
Prime Eligible?
-
Our Top Runner Up
adidas Dame 6 Shoe - Unisex Basketball Core Black/White
Basketball Shoes
adidas Dame 6
Prime Eligible?
-
Our Top Value Pick
Under Armour Men's HOVR Havoc 2 Athletic Shoe, Black//White, 11.5 M US
Basketball Shoes
Under Armour HOVR Havoc 2
Prime Eligible?
-

Our Favorites for the Best Basketball Shoes for Ankle SupportOur Favorites for the Best Basketball Shoes for Ankle Support

adidas Harden Volume 4

The adidas Harden Volume 4 is a basketball shoe designed for James Harden. The shoe is available in a variety of eye-catching colors like blue and red, pink, and black with colored details. These are only a few of the colors offered as it comes in an array of multi-colors and even designs. 

What Makes Them Unique: 

  • The adidas Harden Volume 4 sneakers are lightweight and feature midsole cushions. 
  • The middle band has been added for stability and boasts a rubber outsole for grip and traction.
  • Adidas Harden Vol. 4 shoe is built for explosive movements. 

Why Choose These Basketball Shoes for Ankle Support

  • Many players who typically play with orthotics rave that with these shoes, they were not needed.
  • The adidas Harden Volume 4 offers excellent stability, and wearers do not feel as if they are sliding in their shoes, even when wearing thinner socks.
  • Many students love the aesthetics of the shoe, as well as its function.  Many purchasers say they are comfortable and provide the ability to stop on a dime.

adidas Mens Harden Vol.4 Basketball Sneakers Shoes Casual - Grey - Size 7 D
  • Ultra-lightweight cushioning
  • Harden-inspired traction
  • Textile upper with midfoot band for lockdown and stability
  • Super light Lightstrike cushioning for explosive, dynamic speed


Nike Kobe IV Protro Wizenard

This Nike shoe was initially released in 2004 in conjunction with Kobe Bryant. The collection has been updated to ensure that it can keep up with the basketball players of today. Though the shoe looks to revamp, physically, it kept many of its original features.

What Makes Them Unique:

  • The Nike Kobe IV Protro Wizenard comes in a multitude of colorways and boasts a slimmer design for better performance.
  • The shoe also includes mesh details on its leather upper portion.
  • The heel of the Kobe IV’s contains Zoom Air Cushions.  These cushions are designed with speed and ability in mind.   

Why Choose These Basketball Shoes for Ankle Support

  • Players found these shoes to be incredibly comfortable, though they may take some breaking in due to the stiffness on the top of the shoe.  Some players recommend sizing up by a half size to get the perfect fit if you have a wider foot.
  • The Nike Kobe IV Protro Wizenard also comes equipped with a padded collar for your ankle as well as rubber herringbone outsoles.  This makes for better traction and grip on a variety of surfaces.
  • This is an excellent shoe for guards and boasts numerous similarities to previous versions of the shoe.


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This wouldn’t be a basketball shoe list if there weren’t a pair of Jordan’s on it.  The shoe aims to create an aerodynamic feel and also boasts the use of Zoom Air technology.   This shoe has received a mixed bag of praise and criticism, with most leaning towards having a deep appreciation for the shoe. This is the 34th iteration of this shoe, and it holds a special place in baller’s hearts everywhere.

What Makes Them Unique: 

  • For aerodynamic support, the No products found. boasts a Thermoplastic polyurethane eclipse plate.  This plate allows for more support while moving in a side to side format.
  • The shoe also comes with the notable zoom air cushions under the heel.
  • Jordan also gives the shoe an outsole, which allows for increased and multi-directional traction.
  • They also boast a padded collar for limited ankle movement and the signature Jumpman on the tongue top. 

  Why Choose These Basketball Shoes for Ankle Support:

  • Many players say that with these shoes, their ankles feel stable and supported without the use of braces or tape.
  • The No products found. are very light but still incredibly durable.
  • The players who love them say that they are the best basketball shoes they have ever played in.
  • This is a performance shoe.  My users even said that when landing from a jump, it was as if they were standing on pillows.

No products found.


Our Runners-up for the Best Basketball Shoes for Ankle SupportOur Runner Ups for the Best Basketball Shoes for Ankle Support

adidas Dame 6

Another excellent basketball shoe and one that won’t break the bank is the adidas Dame 6 shoes.  The shoes created in conjunction with Damian Lillard and are incredibly lightweight. These are perfect for the planner doing lots of running up and down the court. 

What Makes Them Unique: 

  • adidas Dame 6 shoes have a sock-like fit, which allows them to fit snuggly and securely, no matter how hard you play.
  • The 6 uses Lightstrike cushions to allow for speed and comfort when moving up and down the court. 
  • For added traction benefit, the shoes come with Herringbone rubber outsoles and are light and breathable. 
  • Instead of traditional lace, the Adidas Dame 6 Shoes are created with a webbing system. 

 Why Choose These Basketball Shoes for Ankle Support:

  • Players currently wearing the adidas Dame 6 rave about the excellent support it provides for the heel and ankle.
  • The sticky tread allows players to do quick direction changes and crossovers.  
  • The shoe also offers the bonus of a cushioned sole for shock absorption. 
  • Outside of being great basketball shoes, players often wear them in the gym.  The comfortable and stylish enough to provide many purposes. 


Under Armour Curry 7

The Under Armour Curry 7 is made in conjunction with Steph Curry.  These low top sneakers are great for individuals playing guard who wants speed and flexibility.  The shoes boast an eclectic design and look great on and off the court. 

What Makes Them Unique: 

  • This shoe was built with Steph Curry in mind intended for quick movements and stability. 
  • The collar and heel are given foam padding for comfort. 
  • The Under Armour Curry 7 uses an abundance of technologies like Micro G cushions, and UA HOVR technology to ensure that energy is returned to the player and movements are explosive. 
  • The herringbone traction design allows players to gain increased traction and maximum floor control. 
  • The shoe focuses on providing stability with its use of the decoupled heel, internal lining, and flexible plates. 

Why Choose These Basketball Shoes for Ankle Support: 

  • Players are calling the Curry 7 shoe, Steph Curry’s best basketball shoe to date. 
  • Even on the dirtiest floors, players are still able to plant, defend, and cut with no issues. 
  • This design also provides far more heel cushion than previous Curry designs. 
  • The shoe also provides increased durability.  The seven seemed to fix the issues previously seen on the Curry 6 shoes. 
  • Under Armour has also given this shoe a wider toe with a sturdy sidewall to ensure that players can cut properly.
  • The shoes also allow students to stop on a dime with ease of balance. 

Our Value Picks for the Best Basketball Shoes for Ankle SupportOur Value Picks for the Best Basketball Shoes for Ankle Support

Under Armour HOVR Havoc 2

The Under Armour HOVR Havoc 2 is another durable yet reasonably priced shoe.  The shoe provides all-around comfort and breathability for even the longest games. With these shoes, you also never have to worry about tying your laces again, it has successfully married the elements of comfort and ease.  

What Makes Them Unique: 

  • Under Armour HOVR Havoc 2 boasts a mesh tongue as well as a molded design.  This design ensures breathability while providing the comfort that players need. 
  • The shoe also uses Under Armour’s HOVR technology.  This allows the player to get back the energy they are exerting.  It also allows players to have a “zero-gravity feel.”
  • Herringbone traction is also used on the shoe’s outer soles to ensure grip and movement on any surface. 

Why Choose These Basketball Shoes for Ankle Support:

  • Though some players say the shoe takes some time to break-in, many feel that they are worth the wait.  The cushioning is a bonus, and users love the fit.
  • For individuals who have had foot or ankle surgery in the past, these are their go-to shoes for comfort and stability. 
  • Players rave about the grip that the Under Armour HOVR Havoc 2 offer and their overall comfort while in them. 

Under Armour Men's HOVR Havoc 2 Athletic Shoe, Black//White, 11.5 M US
  • Molded textile upper for enhanced comfort & breathability
  • Webbed lacing system for a locked-in, customized fit
  • Mesh tongue for increased air flow
  • Half bootie lining for a secure fit with traditional tongue construction for ease of entry
  • Die-cut EVA sockliner provides underfoot cushioning & support

Why You Should Invest in Quality Basketball Shoes for Ankle Support

Ankle injuries are a harsh reality for basketball players. Having the right shoes, however, can make sure that you lower your chances of ankle injuries while playing or practicing.  Now that you have seen the best ankle protection basketball shoes, it’s crucial that you understand why these shoes are essential and what can happen if you don’t protect your ankles.

FAQ on Basketball Shoes for Ankle Support

Did you know that finding the best shoes for ankle support can have benefits inside and out of the realm of basketball?  Not only are you increasing your basketball skills, but you prevent unneeded stress and wear on your body. Great shoes provide the added benefits of having less strain on your joints and even increasing your posture.  Overall, there are several benefits you receive form purchasing the best shoes for ankle support. These include but are not limited to, the following:

  • The best basketball shoes which provide ankle support provide a shock-absorbing ability and aim to reduce injuries during the game.
  • The right shoes also aid in enhancing a player’s overall ability and skill.
  • Heavy shoes can provide support for smaller players and work to protect their ankles.

Do Low Top Basketball Shoes Have Ankle Support?

If you are a low top basketball sneaker enthusiast, you may be wondering if your shoes will provide you with the same support as your teammate’s high-top shoes. The answer is yes!

The support you receive in a shoe does not directly come from the length of the shoe’s collar but the actual technologies utilized within the footwear. Low top basketball shoes are a highly popular style of basketball shoe, and you can almost guarantee that if they didn’t provide support, there would not be so many NBA players wearing them during gameplay.

Low top shoes can still handle the pressure and strength of player movements.  They are lightweight and provide less resistance when jumping, dunking, or shooting. They also help players to boost their speed on the court.

Steph Curry, a popular player who has been seen often to have ankle injuries, can often be seen playing in a range of shoes, has been most recently viewed in his own Under Armour Curry shoes.  Many people questioned this decision, but Curry’s response made sense. Curry wanted a lighter shoe that was stable and engineered to provide the max performance. 

Are High Top Shoes Better for Supporting Ankles?

Contrary to popular belief, wearing high top shoes will not automatically reduce your risk of an ankle injury.  They can happen in low and high-top shoes. Though high-top shoes are often said to better guard ankles due to their physicality, with the new technologies being developed in footwear, that is not always the case.  

When the first basketball shoes made their debut, its high-top design was not intentionally done for ankle support but fashion.  High top shoes were first made to reflect a men’s ankle boot, which was extremely popular.  

Several studies have been conducted to end this debate once and for all.  High top shoes can provide more ankle restriction than low top basketball shoes, but that does not mean that support is better. High top shoes are also said to delay response times and be much more substantial than low top shoes.

Basketball shoes are a forerunner in their utilization of technology. They marry form, fashion, and functionality together. Today you will see players who wear low and high-top basketball shoes. Many players say that the low tops provide the ability for more free movement.

When reviewing the study results, conclusions are mixed. Ultimately, there is no evidence that supports that high-top shoes are indeed better than low tops. Instead, studies have revealed that show design does not have a significant influence on the rate of ankle sprains and industries.

What are the Most Common Ankle Injuries in Basketball?

In the game of basketball, fans are generally watching the ball, and the players move up and down the court.  One area that is often ignored is a player’s feet. Usually, the audience only notices when a player stumbles, trips, or takes a curdling fall.

Though basketball may not appear as physically straining as sports like wrestling or football, players are still susceptible to several injuries. These injuries generally involve the foot or ankle.  Different types of ankle injuries are widespread in basketball. These injuries include but are not limited to, the following:

Sprained Ankles: Sprained ankles can occur in several different ways.  They are common in basketball as well as an array of other physical activities. An ankle sprain can happen at any ability level.  They generally occur due to loss of balance when moving too quickly. The recovery of a player varies based on the severity of a sprain.

Sprains generally happen when your foot twists beneath your leg.  This causes a stretch in your ligaments, which may cause them to tear or rupture. As mentioned, sprains can occur several severities.  These include mild, moderate, or severe. Each sprain boasts a different recovery time and potential treatment. 

With a mild sprain, symptoms like pain and swelling are minimal.  The player will likely still have the ability to walk, and treatment is simply a compression wrap accompanied with 15 to 25 minutes of ice treatment.  Players will generally be back on their feet within a few days.

Moderate sprains are slightly more severe, and x-rays should be utilized to ensure that no damage to a bone has occurred.  Players may have swelling, bruising, and stronger pain in this scenario. Though ice treatment is recommended, a soft cast may need to be reutilized instead of a compression wrap.

Severe sprains are the worst possibility and occur when ligaments are completely torn.  With this, there may be severe pain and bruising, as well as the possibility of a broken or chipped bone.  Players with severe injuries should use the RICE method for treatment. This method encompasses rest, ice, compression, and elevation. A cast may also be needed for one to two months for proper recovery.

Avulsion fracture: An avulsion fracture is one that can accompany an ankle sprain.  It occurs when a piece of the bone tears away from the main bone.  This is generally resulting from some form of trauma, specifically physically.

Stress Fractures:  Another common injury seen in basketball players are stress fractures.  These fractures can occur in the foot or ankle from overuse.  These fractures often occur when muscles are too fatigued to handle the shock of impact.   If the impact of landing on your feet is not properly absorbed, tiny cracks can occur in the bone.  This injury is often treated based on its severity.  In some instances, surgery may be needed.

Achilles Tendon Injuries: If you are an NBA basketball fan, you have probably seen some of your favorite athletes get Achilles injuries.  There are several forms of Tendonitis which may occur on basketball players. These are common injuries often seen in basketball. This injury occurs when there is repeated stress.  This can happen when doing continuous running, walking, or jumping. 

The Achilles Tendon injury can be treated without surgery.  However, recovery can be long, as some symptoms take several months to go away. Treatment for this injury includes ice, physical therapy, and prescribed or over the counter anti-inflammatory medications.  Rehabilitation is a longer-term treatment for tendon injuries.

What are Other Ways Than Shoes to Support Your Ankles in Basketball?

Outside of shoes, there are other ways to ensure that your ankles are adequately supported when playing basketball. Another notable item that players utilize regularly is an ankle brace.  There are several brands of ankle braces that players can use, which vary by style and price point.  Ankle braces can come in straightforward, simple designs or boast more elaborate constructions. Ultimately the goal of an ankle brace is to protect a player’s joint. Ankle braced not only aim to reduce or elevate injuries but to provide stability and ease of movements. You may check our post on the best ankle braces here.

Another option that basketball players can do to protect and support their ankles is to exercise.  No, we are not talking about doing bicep curls or lateral flies but instead ankle strengthening and balance workouts. These workouts can often include items like a balance board. 

Lastly, the best thing you can do to avoid your first or fifth ankle injury is to pay close attention to your body. Make sure that you give yourself time to rest, relax, and ultimately recuperate.  Do not overdo it; you could ultimately be ending your basketball career.

How to Choose the Best Basketball Shoes for Ankle Support for You

Choosing the best shoes for ankle support can be hard.  Shoes will often vary by design and structure. There are several things you must keep in mind when buying a basketball shoe, which will provide you with adequate ankle support.  Use this list of questions and tips to pick a shoe that is perfect for you and gives you the ability to perform at your best.

What position do you play?

Many seasoned basketball players will say that your position on the court must also be considered when you are choosing a good shoe for you. Some players say that high tops are often ideal for power forwards or centers, whereas low tops are seen most often on guards.

Should you pick a low top or high top shoe?

Low tops though not ideally thought of as basketball shoes, are becoming increasingly popular.  They are lighter, looser, and ultimately more flexible. They allow for a range of mobility and provide minimal restrictions to the player.

High tops are said to be for a more massive guy.  High top shoes offer support, restrictions and provide impact protection with the use of its softer cushions.  The high neck on high top shoes provides significant limits for players and essentially lock the ankle. High top shoes are great for a bigger and heavier player.

What price point am I looking to stay in?

Let’s be honest; sneakers are not cheap. Being that basketball shoes marry fashion and comfort, you should be prepared to spend a considerable amount on a great quality pair of shoes. Before beginning your search, decide on a price point. Finding shoes towards the lower end of your spectrum may be hard, especially depending on your shoe size, but it is not impossible. Make sure to read our reviews on the best shoes under $100.

Before committing to purchase a show from a major retailer, make sure you check online and in-store at a place like Dick’s sporting goods, outlets, or even Amazon to ensure you are getting the best deal.

Are you prone to ankle injuries?

If you have had several ankle injuries before or if you are prone to injuries, it may be best to stick to a high or mid-top shoe.  Though a low top shoe does indeed offer ankle support, high top shoes can restrict the motion of your ankles. 

What level of a player are you?

You will need to decide if you are a fast or aggressive player.  Your level of play has a lot to do with the shoes you will need.  Aggressive players will require more traction as well as more cushion.  Whereas, faster players will require a lighter and more flexible shoe.

Summary of the Best Basketball Shoes for Ankle Support

To sum up, here are the best basketball shoes for ankle support we looked at today:

Our Top Favorite
adidas Mens Harden Vol.4 Basketball Sneakers Shoes Casual - Grey - Size 7 D
Our Top Runner Up
adidas Dame 6 Shoe - Unisex Basketball Core Black/White
Our Top Value Pick
Under Armour Men's HOVR Havoc 2 Athletic Shoe, Black//White, 11.5 M US
Basketball Shoes
adidas Harden Volume 4
adidas Dame 6
Under Armour HOVR Havoc 2
Prime Eligible?
-
-
-
Our Top Favorite
adidas Mens Harden Vol.4 Basketball Sneakers Shoes Casual - Grey - Size 7 D
Basketball Shoes
adidas Harden Volume 4
Prime Eligible?
-
Our Top Runner Up
adidas Dame 6 Shoe - Unisex Basketball Core Black/White
Basketball Shoes
adidas Dame 6
Prime Eligible?
-
Our Top Value Pick
Under Armour Men's HOVR Havoc 2 Athletic Shoe, Black//White, 11.5 M US
Basketball Shoes
Under Armour HOVR Havoc 2
Prime Eligible?
-

The seriousness of ankle sprains should not be underestimated.  There is a likelihood for further ankle issues to develop if injuries are not adequately treated and bandaged.  This can result in limited mobility and, if severe enough, a career end. 

There are several shoes that can aid you in protecting your ankles from injury and help you play the best game of your life.  Shoes like the Under Armour Curry 7s or the No products found. allow players a range of mobility while still have the ankle stability that they need. All of the shoes on this list contain a range of technology to help players to be quicker, stronger and better. 

Though our aim is not to scare you into purchasing anything, aside from providing you with the best options for basketball shoes for ankle support, we also want to provide you with information that will help you determine which shoe is best for you.  Before picking a shoe, there are several things you must ask yourself. 

These questions include evaluating what type of player you’re playing league as well as your personal injury history.  Another major question you need to answer is if you would like high or low top basketball shoes. Though both shoes have their benefit, it ultimately comes down to what will work best for you and your basketball career.

Did you find this helpful? Then also check out other basketball gear reviews here

> The Best Cushioned Basketball Shoes

> The Best Basketball Shoes with Traction

> The Best Basketball Shoes for Big Men

Hoops Addict
Hoops Addict

Hoops Addict was created to help basketball fans of all ages learn more about the sport and find the best basketball gear to improve their ability to hoop. He has been a huge basketball fan for decades, watching thousands of basketball games through the years to learn the ins and outs of the game.

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