The Best Shoes with Ankle Support – Support Your Kids’ Ankles!
Do you have a child experiencing ankle pain and your medical professional recommends buying shoes with good ankle support? Shoes with good ankle support can prevent common injuries such as sprains and strains by keeping the foot aligned and distributing impact forces evenly. I am going to show you a list of the best shoes with ankle support that can help stabilize a child’s foot, providing a firm foundation that can prevent injuries, reduce pain, and contribute to better posture and balance.
My Experience Fitting Children’s Shoes
As a shoe fitter, my role is to guide families in finding the right pair of shoes for their children. This involves understanding each child’s unique needs, including foot shape, activity level, and any specific foot conditions.
Key Features of Ankle Support Shoes for Kids
1. Firm Heel Counters: A firm heel counter is the backbone of any supportive shoe. It helps maintain the shoe’s shape and provides additional support to the heel and ankle area. Grab your child’s shoes and press on the heel counter and check whether it feels soft or firm.
2. Extra Padding Below the Heels: Extra padding below the heels adds cushioning and comfort, which can be especially beneficial for children who spend a lot of time on their feet. This feature helps absorb shock and reduces pressure on the heels, contributing to overall foot health.
3. Stable Base of Support: This feature helps distribute weight evenly and supports the foot’s natural movement.
Is Ankle Pain Common in Active Children?
Ankle pain in children is more common than you think. I have noticed how ankle pain occurs particularly in very active children and in those who participate in organized sports. When a child comes to our shoe store experiencing ankle pain, I start by checking the shoes that the child is wearing to make sure that they are providing the correct amount of ankle support. This means that before you take your child to be evaluated by your doctor, check the shoes that your child is wearing and make sure that they are supportive.
Choosing the best kids’ shoes with ankle support can be overwhelming with the myriad of options available. Not all shoes are created equal, and it’s important to focus on those that combine style, functionality, and the necessary support for growing feet. Disclosure: Some links in this post may be affiliate links and we may receive a small commission (at no extra cost to you) when you click our links and make purchases.
Top Recommendations for Ankle Support Shoes
Here are some of my top recommendations for kids’ shoes that excel in providing ankle support. These options have been selected based on their superior design features and the positive feedback from both parents and children.
1. Shoe Style 990v6 by New Balance
These kids’ shoes with ankle support provide a robust outsole that helps distribute weight evenly across the foot and reduces strain on the muscles and joints. The downside that many parents complain about is the high price tag.
Key Features:
- Available for toddlers, little, and big kids.
- You can order the 990v6 with laces on the New Balance website, Amazon, or Zappos.
- Available in medium, wide, and extra wide widths.
- Also available in pink, black, and navy blue.
- There is also a Velcro version of these shoes available in navy blue and pink.
- I suggest that you get this shoe a half size larger than your child’s current foot size.
2. Shoe Style Gabi by Memo (Orthopedic Shoe)
These orthopedic shoes with ankle support are specifically designed to improve foot posture and comfort. The higher price point is a common complaint parents have but the investment in orthopedic shoes is often justified by their specialized design and effectiveness in addressing foot conditions.
Key Features:
- Available for toddlers and little kids.
- You can order the shoe style Gabi by Memo on Amazon.
- Fits medium and wide feet.
- Also available in a Mary Jane style and a version for older kids called Memo Polo.
- I suggest that you get this shoe a half size larger than your child’s current foot size.
3. Shoe Style Elliott by Stride Rite
These high-top ankle support shoes by Stride Rite offer excellent support and a comfortable fit. This shoe is affordable and despite the limited color choices, the Elliott shoes are celebrated for their supportive qualities and comfortable fit.
Key Features:
- Available for toddlers.
- You can order the shoe style SRT Elliot by Stride Rite on Amazon or Zappos.
- Available in medium, wide, and extra wide widths.
- I suggest that you get this shoe a whole size larger than your child’s current foot size.
4. Shoe style 574 by New Balance
This New Balance shoe combines style with functionality. It offers solid support and cushioning, making it suitable for kids with ankle pain. The shoe is offered at a lower price point.
Key Features:
- Available for toddlers, little, and big kids.
- Order the shoe style 574 New-b V1 by New Balance on Amazon or the New Balance website.
- Available in medium, wide, and extra wide widths.
- Also available with laces on the New Balance website, Amazon, and Zappos.
- I suggest that you get this shoe a half size larger than your toddler’s current foot size.
5. Shoe Style Tracks by Timberland
The sturdy design ensures that children can enjoy outdoor activities without compromising on foot stability or comfort, but this style is slightly heavier than my other shoe recommendations. These high-top ankle support shoes provide firm heel counters and a stable base of support.
Key Features:
- Available for toddlers and little kids.
- Order the shoe style Tracks by Timberland on Zappos or Amazon.
- Fits medium and wide feet.
- Water-friendly
- I suggest that you get this shoe a whole size larger than your child’s current foot size.
6. Shoe Style Cohesion by Saucony
These shoes are ideal for kids who need extra ankle support, as they offer excellent cushioning and stability. The affordable pricing also makes them accessible to a wide range of families.
Key Features:
- Available for little and big kids.
- Order the shoe style Cohesion KDZ on Zappos or Amazon.
- Available in medium and wide widths.
- Also available with laces on Zappos and Amazon.
- I suggest that you get this shoe a whole size larger than your child’s current foot size.
7. Shoe Style Fresh Foam Arishi v4 by New Balance
This is a versatile shoe that provides a soft and comfortable fit while supporting your child’s ankles. Families appreciate how this shoe is offered at a very reasonable price.
Key Features:
- Available for toddlers, little, and big kids.
- Order the shoe style Fresh Foam 650 by New Balance on the New Balance website or Amazon.
- Available in medium, wide, and extra wide widths.
- Also available with laces on Zappos and Amazon.
- I suggest that you get this shoe a whole size larger than your child’s current foot size.
8. Shoe Style 2002 by New Balance
The 2002 New Balance ankle support shoes are another great option for children with heel or ankle pain at a more affordable price point than the 990v6.
Key Features:
- Available for toddlers, little, and big kids.
- Order the shoe style 2002 by New Balance on the New Balance website.
- Available in medium and wide widths.
- I suggest that you get this shoe a whole size larger than your child’s current foot size.
9. Shoe Style Cross Em Up by Adidas
These high-top basketball shoes with ankle support offer great support for children with ankle pain. The versatility of the shoe makes it suitable for both sports and everyday wear, adding value for parents looking for multi-functional footwear.
Key Features:
- Available for little and big kids.
- Order the shoe style Cross Em Up Select by Adidas on Zappos or Amazon.
- Available in medium and wide widths.
- I suggest that you get this shoe a whole size larger than your child’s current foot size.
10. Shoe Style GT-1000 by Asics
These Asics ankle support shoes are a popular choice for kids who require extra stability and support. This specific shoe is capable of fitting children with narrow or medium feet. This is one of the best running shoes with ankle support.
Key Features:
- Order the shoe style GT-1000 by Asics on Zappos or Amazon
- Available for little and big kids.
- Fits narrow or medium feet.
- I suggest that you get this shoe a whole size larger than your child’s current foot size.
Recommendations Based on Experience
As a shoe fitter, I’ve learned that every child’s foot is unique, and what works for one may not work for another. Consider the width, arch type, and any specific conditions. I believe in providing personalized service to ensure that every child leaves with shoes that fit well and support their ongoing development. You can either contact me via email or through the comments section below.
How to Retrieve Your Child’s Exact Foot Length and Shape
Ordering shoes in the correct size is just as important as selecting the right style. An ill-fitting shoe can negate the benefits of proper ankle support and lead to discomfort or injury. Ensuring the right fit promotes healthy foot development and prevents conditions like blisters or ingrown toenails.
I created a virtual shoe fitting service that will help you retrieve your child’s shoe size from home. In that article, I help parents determine their child’s exact foot size and whether the child has narrow, medium, wide, or extra wide feet, and I also will be able to tell you whether your child has a high instep or not.
Do High-Top Shoes Provide Better Support Than Regular Sneakers?
One common question is whether high-top shoes offer better ankle support than regular sneakers. The answer isn’t straightforward, as it depends on the design of the shoe. Most parents assume that high-top shoes provide better support than regular sneakers, but this is not always the case. The key is to make sure that the shoes provide firm heel counters.
Can Tulis Heel Cups Help?
Tulis heel cups are a popular addition to children’s shoes, providing extra cushioning and shock absorption. These heel cups can be particularly beneficial for children who experience discomfort or pain in their heels, offering relief and additional support. They can help alleviate discomfort caused by flat feet or plantar fasciitis and offer additional support for the heel and ankle. Incorporating heel cups into your child’s footwear can enhance the overall support provided by their shoes, contributing to healthier foot development.
Best Heel Cups for Kids for Extra Cushion and Support
There is a particular heel cup that I have fitted before and I know it’s the most effective one as it provides maximum shock-absorbing protection to support your child’s heels.
- Ideal to treat and prevent general heel pain, plantar fasciitis, Sever’s disease, excessive pronation, Achilles tendonitis
- Innovative multi-cell, multi-layer waffle pattern design, helps to absorb impact pressure (shock) and return impact energy back to the feet
- The extra cushion this heel cup includes reduces and prevents sore heels and shin splints
- Small Size – Fits from a little kid shoe size 10.5 to a big kid shoe size 6. Best for children under 80 lbs.
- Regular Size – Fits big kid shoe size 6 and above. Weight up to 175 lbs.
Heel cups only fit in shoes that provide extra depth, otherwise, the heel cup won’t fit deep enough inside the shoes and will raise your kids’ feet, giving your child the impression that his/her feet are coming out of the shoes. All of the shoes I recommended above provide extra depth, so you will be able to fit a heel cup inside of them.
Additional Resources for Kids with Ankle Pain
If your child experiences ankle pain, consider exploring other footwear options such as sandals with ankle support. Brands like Keen and Teva offer sandals designed for comfort and stability, perfect for warmer weather. These sandals provide the necessary support without compromising on style or breathability, ensuring your child remains comfortable during summer activities.
Proper ankle support can prevent injuries and support healthy foot development. Moreover, well-supported ankles can contribute to better posture, which is essential for overall body alignment and can prevent future musculoskeletal issues.
My son can walk but he has significant special needs…he has very low muscle tone which has made his heels especially weak….he also has extremely narrow feet. Do you have Any specific suggestions?
Hello Katie,
I am happy to help.
To recommend specific shoes for your son I first need to know the shoe size that he wears and the country that you are contacting me from to check what specific shoes you might be able to order.
I just wanted to say thank you so much for this article.. every time my son needs a new pair of shoes, I always come back to this!! I see it even has been updated! Thank you so much and I hope this stays up forever! ?
I just wanted to say thank you so much for this article.. every time my son needs a new says pair of shoes, I always come back to this!! I see it even has been updated! Thank you so much and I hope this stays up forever! ?
Hello Jess,
I am happy to help! I always review the articles and update them with my latest shoe recommendations.
Hi, we have tried New Balance 680v6 running shoe, the Saucony Axon, and heel cups. Thanks to your article, my son’s ankle pain has decreased TREMENDOUSLY. I don’t know what I would have done! THANK YOU!!!
Hi, we have tried New Balance 680v6 running shoe, the Saucony Axon, and heel cups. Thanks to your article, my son’s ankle pain has decreased TREMENDOUSLY. I don’t know what I would have done! We also use the heel cups now. THANK YOU!!!
Hello Jess,
I am happy to hear that!
Hi my son is 9 years old, he has hyper mobility and hind foot valgus deformity, where his ankles are in turned. He is flat footed and has narrow, slim feet. His foot size is 1 or 2 depending on shoe brand. He is being provided with shoe inserts from the podiatrist but they have requested I buy him good trainers that support his ankles to use the supports in.
Hello Jennifer,
I am happy to recommend specific shoes for your son, but first I need to know from which country you are contacting me to check what specific shoes are available in your area.
My step daughter has heaps of ankle pain she is 10 , unfortunately she has to beable to do her own shoes up at school as they take them on and off, she can not pull the laces tight enough on her own nor can she tie them tight either , what runner do you recommend that doesn’t have laces as she has had quiet a few runners including sketches all with laces but I feel this is where the problem is, not old enough to tie them tight enough to give her supports
Hello Cheryl,
Maybe the reason that your step daughter can’t make the shoes tight enough is that the shoes are either too big or too wide for her feet. I can recommend a pair of velcro shoes for her, but they won’t provide her with the same support or stability that shoes with shoelaces provide.
I suggest that you apply this shoe lacing technique: How to Tie Shoes for Heel Pain – The Most Effective Way!
If you want to make sure that your step daughter is wearing the correct shoes in the correct size you can also use this resource: How to Measure Your Kids’ Foot – 2 Simple Steps to Determine Foot Length and Foot Width
Hi, I was wondering if there is a cheaper alternative for families on a budget? In the $50 price range.
Hi Jess,
Please send me your child’s foot size and shape (narrow, medium, wide, or extra wide), and I also need to know whether your son has a high instep or not. I will then send you specific shoe recommendations that are more affordable. You can send this information to my email: fittingchildrensshoes@gmail.com
If you are unsure of your child’s foot shape start by taking a look at the article below:
How to Measure Your Kids Foot – 2 Simple Steps to Determine Foot Length and Foot Width