the best basketball shoes for ankle support 2023

When you’re deciding on the right basketball shoe for optimum ankle support, it’s no easy task.

Whether you’re a professional player or weekend warrior, having dependable shoes to hinge your movements on is essential. The best basketball shoes for ankle support in 2023 are designed with comfort and stability in mind; meaning that quality materials and durable construction should always be taken into account.

Today we’ll explore the qualities of some of this year’s most popular models and determine what makes them superior when it comes to supporting ankles while playing basketball.

Why ankle support is important

Basketball is a sport that requires quick movements, sudden stops and jumps that put immense pressure on your feet and ankles. It’s crucial to choose the best basketball shoes for ankle support to prevent injuries.

Ankle injuries are among the most common injuries sustained by basketball players and they tend to linger for extended periods, sidelining players from the court. Proper ankle support in basketball shoes can prevent ankle sprains and other ankle-related injuries by providing stability and balance to the foot and ankle during gameplay.

When a player jumps, lands, or pivots, the ankle joint has to bear a lot of weight and force. The right basketball shoe with solid ankle support can help to prevent ankle injuries and provide extra stability for sharper movements and cuts. So, it’s crucial to understand the importance of ankle support in a basketball shoe before buying one.

It’s absolutely essential to prioritize ankle support when choosing basketball shoes to ensure that players remain healthy and remain active on the court.

The Importance of Ankle Support in Basketball

Playing basketball without proper ankle support can lead to serious injuries, such as sprains and fractures. In addition, inadequate ankle support can cause pain and discomfort during play, which can affect a player’s performance. Therefore, it is essential for basketball players to choose shoes with great ankle support.

More Ankle Support

When choosing a basketball shoe with adequate ankle support, there are several key features to consider.

• The type of material used in the shoe should provide adequate cushioning and flexibility while also offering stability and durability.
• The design and construction of the shoe should provide adequate heel-to-toe transition and arch support.
• The type of cushioning should be tailored to the player’s style and position.
• The collar height should be high enough to provide secure lockdown but not too high that it restricts movement or causes discomfort.
• The lacing system should be adjustable so that it can be tightened or loosened depending on what feels most comfortable for each individual player.

In addition to these features, players should also consider factors like their playing style (fast or all-round), position (guard or forward), foot size (narrow or wide footers) and court surface (indoor or outdoor). These factors will help determine which type of basketball shoe for ankle support is best suited for each individual player’s needs.

Recommendations and Tips

To ensure a comfortable fit and proper use of their new basketball shoes, players should follow these recommendations:

1. Make sure to try on different sizes before purchasing a pair; different brands may have slightly different sizing charts so it is important to find one that fits correctly.
2. Wear socks when trying on shoes; this will give you an idea of how they will feel during play as well as how much room there is inside the shoe for your feet to move around comfortably.
3. Make sure that you break in your shoes before using them in a game. This will help reduce any potential discomfort caused by wearing new shoes during play.
4. Replace your shoes regularly; depending on how often you play basketball, you may need to replace your shoes every 6 months or so in order to maintain optimal performance levels and prevent injuries due to worn out materials or lack of cushioning/support over time.

I recently published an article of the lightest basketball shoes for 2023, these sneakers will mostly be a bit heavier.

Factors To Consider

• 
  Proper Fit: The shoe should fit snugly and securely, reducing the risk of ankle rolls or sprains.
• Ankle Support Design: Look for high-tops or mid-tops, as these designs offer more support compared to low-top basketball shoes.
• Cushioning: Good cushioning, especially around the heel and forefoot, can provide impact protection, reducing stress on the ankles.
• Traction: A shoe with good traction can prevent slips and falls, protecting your ankles from injury.
• Stability: Shoes with a wide base often provide better stability (wide footers), which can help prevent your ankle from rolling.
• Flexibility: While you need support, the shoe should also be flexible enough to allow a full range of motion.
• Quality Material: The material of the shoe should be durable yet comfortable. It should also offer breathability.
  • Lightweight: Heavier shoes may put additional strain on your ankles. Opt for lightweight models that don’t compromise on support.
• Existing Ankle Conditions: If you have had previous ankle injuries or conditions, consider seeking advice from a medical professional. You might want to consider ankle braces and shoes for ankle support
• Personal Comfort: Everyone’s feet are different. What feels supportive and comfortable to one person might not feel the same to another. Always try before you buy.
• Brand and Reviews: Consider the reputation of the brand and check out user reviews regarding the shoe’s ankle support.

The Best Basketball Shoes

Nike Air Zoom GT Jump

Basketball players know the importance of ankle support in their shoes. A good basketball shoe can make the difference between a game-changing performance and a season-ending injury. The Nike Air Zoom GT Jump is a model that stands out for its excellent support. A supportive shoe from Nike’s GT series.

Key Features

• High-top basketball shoes for extra ankle support.
• Full-length Zoom Strobel unit underfoot and an additional Zoom Air unit in the heel for responsive cushioning and energy return.
• Lightweight, breathable upper for a comfortable fit.
• Robust rubber outsole with a multi-directional traction pattern for excellent grip.

Pros

• one of the better shoes for ankle support
• Exceptional comfort and responsiveness from the Zoom Air units.
• Superior grip enabled by the multi-directional traction pattern on the outsole.

Cons

• Higher price compared to many other basketball shoes on the market.
• Limited availability in some sizes or color options.

Conclusion

• The Nike Air Zoom GT Jump is an excellent choice for players prioritizing ankle support.
• Despite its higher price, its comfort, traction, and overall performance make it a worthwhile investment.
• Suitable for everyone – professional players to casual ballers.

Nike Lebron 19

The Nike LeBron 19 is a basketball shoe that marries style and comfort. When buying basketball shoes, this is a top notch option for ankle support.

The signature shoe of NBA superstar LeBron James, these kicks are designed to meet the needs of athletes who require superior performance and stability on the court.

Key Features

• High-top design with a padded collar for extra ankle support.
• Combination of two Zoom Air units in the forefoot and a large Max Air unit in the heel for responsiveness and energy return.
• Breathable yet sturdy upper material for a snug and comfortable fit.
• Multi-directional traction pattern on the outsole for excellent grip.

Pros

• Excellent ankle support due to the high-top design and padded collar.
• Exceptional comfort and responsiveness from the combination of Zoom and Max Air units.
• Superior grip enabled by the multi-directional traction pattern on the outsole.

Cons

• Higher price compared to many other basketball shoes on the market.
• Some users report that the shoe runs a bit tight, especially for players with wider feet.

Conclusion

• The Nike LeBron 19 is an excellent choice for players prioritizing ankle support.
• Despite its higher price and potential fit issues, its comfort, traction, and overall performance make it a worthwhile investment.
• Suitable for both professional players and weekend warriors.

Li-Ning Wade 808 2 Ultra V2

The Li-Ning brand has been making waves in the basketball shoe market, with their signature line from NBA superstar Dwyane Wade leading the charge. The Wade 808 2 Ultra V2 is a standout model that prioritizes ankle support, making it an attractive option for basketball players who need extra stability on the court.

Key Features

• High-top design for enhanced ankle support.
• Li-Ning’s proprietary Cloud technology in the midsole for superior cushioning and responsiveness.
• Strong rubber outsole with a herringbone traction pattern for excellent grip.
• Durable upper material for a snug and secure fit.

Pros

• Excellent ankle support due to the high-top design.
• Superior cushioning and impact absorption from Li-Ning’s Cloud technology.
• Excellent grip enabled by the herringbone pattern on the outsole.

Cons

• Some users might find the shoe a bit heavy compared to other basketball shoes.
• Depending on your location, availability might be a challenge as Li-Ning is still expanding its global distribution.

Conclusion

• The Li-Ning Wade 808 2 Ultra V2 is an excellent choice for players prioritizing ankle support.
• Despite its weight and potential availability issues, its comfort, traction, and overall performance make it a worthwhile investment.
• Suitable for both professional players and recreational players open to trying brands outside the traditional big names in basketball footwear.

Nike Air Jordan 35

The Nike Air Jordan 35 is a great option if you’re looking for a pair of supportive basketball shoes.

Key Features

• Beneficial for players needing extra ankle support due to a previous ankle injury or for those seeking injury prevention.
• Ideal for those relying on quick, sharp movements in their gameplay.
• While expensive, the features may justify the cost for many players.

Pros

• Enhanced ankle support due to high-top design.
• Eclipse Plate 2.0 offers stability and lateral support.
• Comfortable fit; shoe fits true to size.
• Balance between comfort, breathability, and support provided by the upper materials.

Cons

• Higher price point compared to other basketball shoes.
• Some users might find the shoe heavier due to its robust construction.
• Design may not appeal to everyone; some may prefer a more understated look.

Conclusion

• The Nike Air Jordan 35 is an excellent choice for players prioritizing ankle support.
• Trying the shoe is recommended to see how well it fits and supports your specific needs and preferences.

Nike Air Precision 2

The Nike Air Precision 2 is a basketball shoe designed with a focus on ankle support and overall court performance. Its design caters to the needs of players looking for a shoe that can handle high-energy play while offering great fit and comfort.

Key Features

• Mid-top design for great ankle support.
• Nike’s Air unit in the heel for lightweight cushioning.
• Durable upper made from mesh and foam.
• Rubber outsole with modified herringbone pattern for strong grip.

Pros

• Comfortable, snug fit.
• Good traction on the court.
• Reasonably priced compared to other basketball shoes.

Cons

• Cushioning could be improved for better shock absorption.
• Durability may be a concern as some users reported issues with the upper material.

Comparison

• More affordable than other popular basketball shoes like Nike Air Jordan 35.
• Great ankle support but may fall short in cushioning and durability compared to higher-end models.

Conclusion

• Solid choice for players seeking ankle support, comfort, and traction at a more affordable price.
• Best to try on the shoe to determine if it’s the right fit for your specific needs and playing style.

Adidas Dame 8

The Adidas Dame 8 is a basketball shoe designed with a focus on ankle support and overall court performance. It’s the eighth signature shoe of NBA player Damian Lillard and is built to match his dynamic gameplay.

Key Features

• Mid-top design for good ankle support.
• Lightstrike technology for lightweight cushioning and comfort.
• Durable upper made from mesh and synthetic materials.
• Rubber outsole with a unique traction pattern for strong grip.

Pros

• Comfortable, snug fit.
• Good traction on the court.
• The Adidas Dame 8 has Stylish design with multiple color options.

Cons

• Some users find the Adidas Dame 8 a bit heavy.
• May require a short break-in period to feel completely comfortable.

Conclusion

• The Adidas Dame 8 is a solid choice for players seeking great ankle support, comfort, and stylish design.
• Best to try on the shoe to determine if it’s the right fit for your specific needs and playing style.

Under Armour Embiid 1

The Under Armour Embiid 1 is a basketball shoe designed with a focus on ankle support and overall court performance. It’s the first signature shoe of NBA player Joel Embiid and is built to match his powerful and versatile gameplay.

Key Features

• Mid-top design for good ankle support.
• HOVR technology for ‘zero gravity feel’ and impact elimination.
• Durable upper made from mesh and synthetic materials.
• Rubber outsole with a unique traction pattern for strong grip.

Pros

• Comfortable, snug fit.
• Good traction on the court.
• Stylish design with multiple color options.

Cons

• Some users find the shoe a bit heavy.
• May require a short break-in period to feel completely comfortable.

Conclusion

• Solid choice for players seeking good ankle support, comfort, and stylish design.
• Best to try on the shoe to determine if it’s the right fit for your specific needs and playing style.

Adidas Stepback 3

The Adidas Stepback 3 is no doubt one of the best budget basketball shoes currently available in 2023 when it comes to ankle support. Offering amazing traction, support, lockdown, all at an affordable price point.

Its lightweight textile/synthetic leather construction ensures durability while its Bounce+ EVA foam midsole provides exceptional energy return & responsiveness so you can stay light on your feet all day long.

Pros :Lightweight textile/synthetic leather construction ; Bounce+ EVA foam midsole ; Amazing traction & support ; Lockdown ; Affordable price point.

Cons :Not suitable if you have wide feet.

Jordan Zion 2

The Jordan Zion 2 is an updated version of last year’s popular Zion 1 model that delivers improved performance in every aspect – from fit to feel – making it one of the best basketball shoes available in 2023 when it comes to ankle support.

Its lightweight textile upper has been redesigned to offer better lockdown than ever before, while its new React foam midsole ensures maximum comfort throughout your game time adventures.

Pros: Lightweight textile upper;; Redesigned fit & feel offers better lockdown than ever before; New React foam midsole ensures maximum comfort throughout game time.

Cons : Expensive price tag.

Puma MB 02

The Puma MB 02 is another great option if you’re looking for superior ankle support without sacrificing style or performance. It features a lightweight synthetic leather upper with TPU overlays to provide extra durability, as well as full-length IGNITE foam midsole for responsive cushioning and shock absorption during playtime activities like jumping or running around the court.

Under Armour Curry Flow 10

Pros: Lightweight synthetic leather construction ; Micro G foam midsole ; Amazing traction & support ; Affordable price point ..

Cons: Not suitable if you have wide feet …..Not recommended for consistent outdoor play