The 11 Best Basketball Shoes for Ankle Support 2023 (Ranked & Reviewed)
List of things I dislike:
Stubbing my toe.
Resetting my router in order to get the Wi-Fi to work again.
Twisting an ankle while playing basketball.
Twisting an ankle is a huge inconvenience for such a seemingly small injury. It’s so difficult to prevent because even landing wrong can cause an injury like this to happen.
As someone who has had his fair share of common ankle injuries, I never buy a pair of basketball shoes unless I know they do all they can to prevent these injuries.
Best Overall
Nike GT Jump 2
Crazy to think such a lightweight shoe could have such great support, right? Well, you get the best of both worlds with this shoe worn by Jokic himself!
Best Under $100
Jordan Luka 1
Looking for ankle support while balling on a budget? Here’s your saving grace. Optimized for Luka Doncic, these are durable and provide excellent traction.
Best for Outdoor Play
Nike KD 15
Here’s a great pair of kicks that provide ankle support whether you’re playing on the hardwood or on an outdoor court. Also great for wide-footers!
Having this experience under my belt is why I put together this list of the best basketball shoes for ankle support.
I’m guessing since you’re reading this article, you’ve had some sort of sprain or twist that kept you on the sideline for days or weeks until it healed. (PRO TIP: Learning how to lace basketball shoes can help with ankle support as well!)
I promise you, you’re in the right place.
Let’s get started!
What Are The Best Basketball Shoes For Ankle Support?
Here are my picks for the best basketball shoes for ankle support this year. (Hint: these are not all high top basketball shoes.)
Nike GT Jump 2
The Nike GT Jump 2 is the ultimate performance shoe for athletes who need a bit more ankle support. With its responsive cushioning and lightweight design, the GT Jump 2 offers optimal support and comfort during high-intensity activities. The durable outsole provides excellent traction, while the breathable upper keeps your feet cool and dry. Check out our Nike GT Jump 2 Performance Review.
Key Benefits
Responsive cushioning for optimal support and comfort during high-intensity activities
Lightweight design enhances agility and movement
Durable outsole provides excellent traction on various surfaces
Breathable upper keeps feet cool and dry, preventing discomfort and sweat buildup
Enhanced stability and balance for improved performance
My Take
The Nike GT Jump 2 is the best basketball shoe that provides excellent vertical separation and support. One advantage is its lightweight and breathable design, but a potential downside could be its higher price point.
Adidas D.O.N. Issue 4
The Adidas D.O.N. Issue 4 is a basketball shoe designed to help you dominate the court. With its responsive cushioning and multidirectional traction, this shoe provides excellent support and grip. The lightweight and breathable upper ensures enhanced agility and comfort, while the unique design pays homage to NBA star Donovan Mitchell’s fearless style. Check out our Adidas D.O.N. Issue 4 Performance Review.
Key Benefits
Responsive cushioning for superior comfort and support on the court
Multidirectional traction pattern for enhanced grip and agility
Lightweight design for increased speed and maneuverability
Breathable mesh upper keeps feet cool and dry during intense games
Unique design inspired by NBA star Donovan Mitchell’s fearless style
My Take
The Adidas DON Issue 4 basketball shoes are designed for speed and agility, featuring a lightweight build and responsive cushioning. One advantage is their optimal grip and ultimate cushioning, providing support for all your actions on the court. However, a potential drawback could be their focus on performance rather than casual wear.
Nike LeBron Witness 7
The Nike LeBron Witness 7 is a versatile pair of performance basketball shoes built to elevate your game. With its responsive Zoom Air cushioning and durable rubber outsole, this shoe provides excellent traction and impact protection. The lightweight mesh upper offers breathability and flexibility, while the padded collar ensures a comfortable fit. Check out our Nike LeBron Witness 7 performance review.
Key Benefits
- Responsive Zoom Air Unit cushioning for ultimate comfort and impact protection on the court
- Durable rubber outsole with multidirectional traction pattern for superior grip and agility
- Lightweight mesh upper for breathability and flexibility during intense games
- Padded collar and tongue for a snug and comfortable fit
- A lace closure system for a secure and adjustable lockdown
My Take
The Nike LeBron Witness 7 basketball shoes offer full-length Max Air cushioning for confident takeoffs and landings, while the lightweight mesh and containment cables provide a locked-in feel and great ankle support. One advantage is the breathable design that keeps your feet cool during intense games. However, a potential drawback could be limited color and style options compared to other LeBron James signature shoes.
Adidas Dame 8
The Adidas Dame 8 is a performance basketball shoe designed to elevate your on-court game. With its responsive Lightstrike cushioning and herringbone traction pattern, this shoe offers exceptional stability and grip. The breathable mesh upper provides comfort and flexibility, while the TPU overlays ensure durability. Featuring a sleek and stylish design inspired by Damian Lillard’s signature style, the Adidas Dame 8 is a must-have for serious ballers.
Key Benefits
Responsive Lightstrike cushioning for optimal comfort and responsiveness on the court
Herringbone traction pattern for excellent grip and traction in all directions
Breathable mesh upper for enhanced airflow and flexibility during intense gameplay
TPU overlays for added durability and support during lateral movements
Padded collar and tongue for a secure and comfortable fit
My Take
The Adidas Dame 8 basketball shoes, inspired by Damian Lillard, feature a stylish design and responsive cushioning for optimal performance on the court. One advantage is the use of recycled materials in their construction, but a potential drawback could be the limited availability of certain colorways.
Nike Air Zoom GT Jump
The Nike Air Zoom GT Jump is the ultimate basketball shoe designed to take your performance to new heights. With its responsive Zoom Air cushioning and lightweight construction, this shoe offers exceptional comfort and agility. The breathable mesh upper provides ventilation, while the durable rubber outsole ensures traction each time you step on the floor. Whether you’re training or competing, the Nike Air Zoom GT Jump will elevate your basketball game to the next level.
Key Benefits
Responsive Zoom Air cushioning for enhanced comfort and energy return during games
Lightweight construction for agility and speed on the court
Breathable mesh upper for improved airflow and ventilation, keeping your feet cool and dry
Durable rubber outsole with traction pattern for excellent grip on various surfaces
Dynamic Fit technology for a snug and supportive fit that adapts to your foot’s movement
My Take
The Nike Air Zoom GT Jump is a technologically advanced basketball shoe with double-stacked Zoom Air cushioning for exceptional comfort and a lightweight, springy jump frame. One advantage is its innovative cushioning setup, but a potential drawback could be the limited availability of certain color options.
Anta KT 8
The Anta KT 8 is a basketball shoe designed for maximum performance on the court. With its responsive cushioning, durable construction, and exceptional traction, this shoe provides the support and grip you need to dominate the game. The breathable upper keeps your feet cool and comfortable, while the lockdown fit ensures stability during quick movements. Check out our Anta KT8 performance review.
Key Benefits
Responsive cushioning for optimal comfort and energy return during intense basketball games
Durable construction designed to withstand the rigors of the court
Exceptional traction pattern for maximum grip on various indoor and outdoor surfaces
Breathable upper material that promotes airflow to keep your feet cool and dry
Secure lockdown fit to support quick movements and provide stability
My Take
The Anta KT 8, released in 2022, is NBA superstar Klay Thompson’s eighth signature shoe, known for its durable construction and exceptional traction. One advantage is its collaboration with Klay Thompson, but a potential drawback could be limited availability outside of China.
Nike Kyrie 8 Infinity
The Nike Kyrie 8 Infinity is a basketball shoe designed to unlock your explosive agility on the court. With its innovative cushioning technology, exceptional traction, and responsive support, this shoe delivers unmatched performance. The breathable upper keeps your feet cool and comfortable, while the lockdown fit ensures stability during quick cuts and crossovers. I bet you didn’t know low top basketball shoes could provide ankle support, too! Check out our Nike Kyrie 8 Infinity performance review.
Key Benefits
Dynamic internal bands for a sock-like fit, providing a customized and secure feel
Enhanced responsiveness in the forefoot for explosive acceleration and quick movements on the court
Exceptional traction on various indoor and outdoor surfaces, allowing for precise cuts and sharp turns
Breathable upper material to keep feet cool and comfortable during intense gameplay
Synthetic leather overlays for added durability and support
My Take
The Nike Kyrie 8 Infinity is Kyrie Irving’s eighth signature shoe designed for basketball players seeking enhanced responsiveness, traction on the court, and good ankle support. One advantage is its dynamic internal bands for a secure fit, but a potential downside could be the limited availability of certain colorways.
Jordan Luka 1 – Best Under $100
The Jordan Luka 1 is a basketball shoe that combines style and performance. With its sleek design, comfortable fit, and responsive cushioning, this shoe is built for the modern player. The durable outsole provides excellent traction on the court, while the breathable upper keeps your feet cool during intense gameplay. This is a very supportive pair of budget basketball shoes. Check out our Jordan Luka 1 performance review.
Key Benefits
Sleek and stylish design that makes a statement on and off the court
Comfortable fit for all-day wear without sacrificing performance
Responsive cushioning that provides excellent energy return and impact absorption
Durable outsole with multidirectional traction pattern for optimal grip on any surface
Breathable upper material that keeps your feet cool and comfortable during intense gameplay
My Take
The Jordan Luka 1 is Luka Dončić’s first signature shoe, designed to amplify his step-back style of play. One advantage is its full-length Formula 23 foam for superior responsiveness, but a potential drawback could be limited availability in certain colorways.
If you’re looking for more cheap shoes, check out our best cheap basketball shoes post.
Jordan Zion 2 – Under $100
The Jordan Zion 2 is a basketball shoe designed for explosive performance on the court. With its innovative cushioning system, lightweight construction, and durable outsole, this shoe provides unmatched responsiveness and traction. The breathable upper ensures maximum comfort, while the dynamic lacing system delivers a secure fit.
Key Benefits
Explosive performance with a responsive cushioning system that enhances energy return and provides optimal impact protection
Lightweight construction for enhanced agility and speed on the court
Durable rubber outsole with multidirectional traction pattern for superior grip and control
Breathable upper material that keeps your feet cool and comfortable during intense gameplay
Dynamic lacing system for a secure and personalized fit
My Take
The Jordan Zion 2 is a basketball shoe designed for power and speed, with reinforced sidewalls for stability and a lightweight cushioning midsole. One advantage is its supportive design, ideal for players who rely on lateral cuts and movements. A potential drawback could be the limited availability of certain colorways.
Nike KD 15 – Best for Outdoors
The Nike KD 15 are the best outdoor basketball shoes that provides ankle support. They are engineered for unmatched performance on the court. Featuring a responsive cushioning system, lightweight construction, and durable outsole, this shoe offers exceptional comfort and agility. The breathable upper keeps your feet cool, while the dynamic lacing system ensures a secure fit. Check out our Nike KD 15 performance review.
Key Benefits
A responsive cushioning system provides excellent energy return and impact protection for enhanced performance on the court
Lightweight construction promotes quickness and agility, allowing players to maneuver effortlessly
A durable outsole with a multidirectional traction pattern ensures superior grip and control
Breathable upper material keeps feet cool and comfortable during intense gameplay
The dynamic lacing system offers a secure and personalized fit, adapting to the individual foot shape
Mark’s Take
The Nike KD 15 are supportive basketball shoes designed to provide bounce, a secure fit, and a broken-in feel, perfect for players seeking optimal performance. One advantage is its lightweight construction, promoting agility on the court. However, some may find the materials underfoot and throughout the shoe to be minimal.
If you’re looking for some shoes you can play outdoor hoops in, feel free to check out our post on the best outdoor basketball shoes this year!
New Balance TWO WXY v3 – Great for Outdoors
The New Balance TWO WXY v3 is a versatile basketball shoe built for performance and comfort. With its responsive cushioning, lightweight design, and breathable upper, this shoe provides a smooth and supportive ride. The durable outsole offers excellent traction, while the secure lace-up closure ensures a snug fit. Check out our New Balance Two WXY v3 performance review.
Key Benefits
Responsive cushioning provides a smooth and comfortable ride, absorbing impact for enhanced performance
The lightweight design promotes agility and speed, allowing hoopers to move effortlessly
Breathable upper material keeps feet cool and dry, preventing discomfort during long games
Durable outsole with excellent traction ensures grip on various surfaces, providing stability and control
Secure lace-up closure offers a personalized and snug fit, preventing any slipping or discomfort
My Take
The New Balance TWO WXY v3 is a basketball shoe designed to enhance split-second reactions on the court, with features like quick acceleration, stops, and pivots. One advantage is its inspiration from firing synapses, offering improved responsiveness and solid ankle support. However, a potential drawback could be the lightweight and minimal cushioning compared to other basketball shoes.
Why Would A Basketball Shoe Need Ankle Support?
Basketball shoes need ankle support to stop players from twists and sprains that come with the game.
With so much jumping being done on the court, basketball players are more prone to ankle sprains and twists than any other sport.
Even NBA Superstars like LeBron James experience ankle tweaks throughout the season.
Unless you have stronger ankles than one of the greatest basketball players who ever lived, you need to protect your ankles at all costs!
It never hurts to wear ankle braces in order to have more support against injuries!
Conclusion
In conclusion, investing in a good pair of basketball shoes with better ankle support is crucial if you want to prevent ankle injuries and perform at your best on the basketball court.
Take it from someone who has had his share of ankle injuries.
They are no fun.
And while no shoes can possibly prevent ankle injuries completely, these are your best bets when looking for the based ankle support on the market this year.
When choosing a basketball shoe, it’s essential to consider the level of support, cushioning, and durability.
Remember, a good pair of basketball shoes will not only protect your feet but also improve your performance and help you take your game to the next level.
FAQ
What do NBA players wear for ankle support?
A lot of NBA players tape their ankles before practices for added support.
Steph Curry, who had his fair share of ankle issues early on in his career, wears an ankle brace on each ankle in order to protect his ankles from ankle sprains and twisted ankles.
Are basketball shoes good for bad ankles?
If you are planning on playing basketball, then the answer is a resounding yes!
In fact, you should not be wearing any other kind of shoe other than a basketball shoe when you step onto the court.
What basketball shoes prevent ankle sprains?
The Nike GT Jump 2 is a great pair of basketball shoes that can help prevent ankle injuries.
Keep in mind, however, that no shoe can completely prevent ankle injuries. Unfortunately, they are just a part of the game.
