8 Best Running Shoes for Ankle Support 2026

If ankle stability and targeted support are non-negotiable in your runs, the Brooks Women’s Adrenaline GTS 24 isn’t just a shoe — it’s a game-changer. At the heart of its design lies the GuideRails Holistic Support System, a biomechanically smart feature that doesn’t force your foot into alignment but instead gently corrals excess movement, especially during overpronation. Combined with nitrogen-infused DNA Loft v3 cushioning, this shoe delivers plush responsiveness without sacrificing structure, making it a standout for runners with weak ankles or a history of rolling. It solves the all-too-common pain point of lateral instability with surgical precision, offering confidence on uneven terrain and long pavement stretches alike.

In real-world testing across 5Ks, long runs, and daily walks, the Adrenaline GTS 24 shines with its balanced blend of softness and control. The midsole compresses just enough to absorb shock yet rebounds with enough energy to avoid that dreaded “sinking” feeling. The engineered air mesh upper wraps the foot securely, with a snug midfoot hold that enhances ankle lockdown — a rare win in neutral-feeling supportive shoes. On wet sidewalks or cambered roads, the outsole maintains grip and promotes smooth heel-to-toe transitions, though aggressive trail use will wear it down prematurely. While the 10.1 oz weight keeps it grounded for stability, it’s not built for speedwork or racing.

When compared to the cushion-first Brooks Glycerin 22, the Adrenaline GTS 24 trades some plushness for superior structural integrity and motion guidance, making it a smarter pick for overpronators or those needing ankle reassurance. It outperforms budget-focused models like the ASICS Gel-Contend 9 in both durability and dynamic support, though it demands a higher investment. Ideal for daily training, plantar fasciitis sufferers, and runners logging high mileage on roads, this shoe is the gold standard for supportive fit without rigidity — delivering more intelligent stability than the Nike Revolution 8 at a comparable performance tier.

For runners who demand ankle-level confidence with every stride, the Brooks Men’s Adrenaline GTS 24 stands tall as a fortress of stability without feeling clunky. Its GuideRails Holistic Support System is the star — not a corrective cage, but a smart guardrail that allows natural motion while preventing harmful excess roll, especially critical for those prone to ankle twists. Backed by nitrogen-infused DNA Loft v3 foam, the ride stays luxuriously soft yet responsive, turning long runs into smooth, joint-friendly experiences. If you’ve ever winced through heel strike or felt your ankle wobble on sloped roads, this shoe answers with precision-engineered reassurance.

Out on the pavement, the Adrenaline GTS 24 proves its mettle with consistent performance across distances and paces. The 11.2 oz build feels substantial, but not sluggish, thanks to the adaptive midsole that molds to your gait. Testers logging 10-milers on cracked sidewalks and crowned highways reported noticeably reduced fatigue, thanks to the shoe’s ability to stabilize lateral motion without over-constraining. The engineered air mesh upper breathes well and locks the heel firmly — a critical win for ankle security — though wider feet may want to try them on first. While not designed for track intervals, they excel as do-it-all trainers for daily logging and injury-prone runners.

Stacked against the Brooks Ghost 16, the GTS 24 offers more targeted support at the cost of some flexibility, making it less ideal for neutral runners but a must-have for overpronators. Compared to the ASICS Gel-Contend 9, it delivers far more advanced biomechanical guidance and long-term durability, though both share diabetic-friendly certifications. For male runners needing ankle protection without orthopedic bulk, this model strikes the ideal balance — offering more holistic stability than the Nike Revolution 8 while maintaining a runner-first feel.

Step into the Brooks Women’s Glycerin 22, and you’ll immediately understand why it’s dubbed the plush palace of running shoes — a sanctuary of cushioning that cradles every joint, especially the ankle, on impact. While not a stability shoe per se, its broad platform and tuned heel geometry deliver exceptional lateral balance, reducing strain on weak ankles during fatigue-heavy miles. The DNA Tuned cushioning uses dual-cell foam — large, soft cells in the heel for shock absorption, smaller ones up front for pop — creating a ride so smooth it feels like floating. For runners with sensitive joints or recovering from sprains, this is protective comfort at its peak.

In real-world use, the Glycerin 22 excels on long, steady runs where impact mitigation is key. The 8.8 oz weight keeps it accessible for daily training, and the double jacquard knit upper offers a sock-like, adaptive fit that hugs the ankle without pressure points. On wet pavement or crowned roads, the wide base enhances stability, though there’s no GuideRails system to correct overpronation — a notable gap for those needing active ankle guidance. It crushes marathon training and recovery runs, but the softness can feel unresponsive during tempo efforts.

Compared to the Adrenaline GTS 24, the Glycerin 22 trades targeted support for maximal cushioning, making it better for neutral runners with ankle sensitivity rather than instability. Against the New Balance Fresh Foam Garoé, it offers a smoother road ride but less trail-ready ankle protection. Ideal for long-distance enthusiasts and those prioritizing joint protection over motion control, it delivers more cushion-smart engineering than the ASICS Gel-Contend 9, though with less structural reinforcement.

When the path turns rocky and your ankles need backup, the New Balance Fresh Foam Garoé V1 steps up as a rare midcut marvel — blending trail toughness with ankle-hugging support often missing in low-top runners. Its elevated collar height isn’t just for show; it provides tangible lateral containment, shielding against rolls on loose gravel or root-strewn singletrack. Paired with the ultra-cushioned Fresh Foam midsole, it delivers a rare combo: soft landings and off-road armor. For trail runners with past ankle injuries, this shoe is a confidence booster on unpredictable terrain.

In rugged testing across forest trails and muddy inclines, the Garoé V1 proved its worth with tenacious AT Tread outsole grip and a secure synthetic/mesh upper that sheds debris. The 8 mm drop encourages a natural stride, while the midsole absorbs trail vibrations that would otherwise rattle weak ankles. Though lightweight at just 9.1 oz, it doesn’t skimp on protection — the elevated collar works in tandem with the snug heel cup to limit lateral wobble. However, on smooth roads, the aggressive tread feels overbuilt and slightly clunky.

Against the Brooks Adrenaline GTS 24, the Garoé sacrifices some on-road smoothness for superior ankle coverage and trail grip, making it a niche but vital pick for off-road runners. Compared to the Nike Revolution 8, it offers dramatically more ankle security and terrain adaptability. Ideal for trail enthusiasts, hikers-in-training, or anyone needing physical ankle containment, it delivers more protective design than the Brooks Glycerin 22 — though with less cushioning finesse on pavement.

The Brooks Men’s Ghost 16 isn’t marketed as a stability shoe, but don’t underestimate its ankle-friendly foundation — a masterclass in balanced, distraction-free running. With nitrogen-infused DNA Loft v3 cushioning, it delivers a soft yet resilient ride that reduces joint shock, indirectly supporting ankle health by minimizing impact-related strain. The segmented Crash Pad ensures smooth transitions, so your foot never catches awkwardly on uneven pavement — a subtle but critical defense against rolls. For neutral runners seeking comfort with inherent stability, this shoe offers a safe, predictable platform.

On urban runs over cracked sidewalks and crowned streets, the Ghost 16 excels with its consistent flex and road-smoothing midsole. The engineered air mesh upper breathes well and holds the midfoot securely, though the heel cup lacks the snug wrap of supportive models like the Adrenaline GTS 24. At 10.1 oz, it’s light enough for daily training but substantial enough to feel protective. It won’t correct overpronation, but its evenly distributed cushioning helps maintain alignment — a plus for mild ankle weakness.

Compared to the Adrenaline GTS 24, the Ghost 16 offers less active support but more flexibility, making it better for neutral runners avoiding stiffness. Against the ASICS Gel-Contend 9, it delivers a more refined ride and better durability, though both serve as entry-to-mid-tier options. Ideal for runners with healthy biomechanics who want impact protection without rigidity, it provides more balanced performance than the Nike Revolution 8 — though with less targeted ankle tech.

Don’t let the modest price tag fool you — the ASICS Women’s Gel-Contend 9 is a budget-savvy guardian for weak ankles, packing Rearfoot GEL technology that delivers targeted impact absorption right where it matters. This viscous cushioning layer at the heel softens landings dramatically, reducing the jolt that can aggravate unstable ankles. Combined with synthetic overlays that reinforce the midfoot, it offers a surprising level of structure for its class. For runners needing basic ankle protection without breaking the bank, this shoe punches above its weight.

In everyday testing, the Gel-Contend 9 holds up well on short to mid-distance runs and daily walks. The OrthoLite sockliner provides instant comfort, and the flex grooves allow natural foot bending — helpful for maintaining balance on uneven ground. However, the jacquard mesh upper, while breathable, lacks the secure wrap needed for fast turns or trail-like conditions. At 8.2 oz, it’s light, but the thin midsole doesn’t offer the long-term support of premium models, making it better suited for casual use than high-mileage training.

Against the Brooks Adrenaline GTS 24, the Contend 9 clearly trades advanced support for affordability and simplicity, but it outperforms the Nike Revolution 8 in ankle-focused tech thanks to its GEL cushioning. While not ideal for overpronators needing dynamic correction, it’s a solid entry point for new runners or walkers with mild ankle concerns. It delivers more impact-smart engineering than the basic Revolution 8 — though with less overall refinement.

The Nike Women’s Revolution 8 enters the ring as a no-frills, entry-level runner, but when it comes to ankle support, it’s a case of function over protection. The foam midsole offers basic cushioning, and the mesh upper ensures breathability, but there’s no structural reinforcement or heel containment to speak of. For runners with strong ankles or those logging easy, flat-terrain miles, it’s a lightweight, affordable option. But if you’re recovering from a sprain or prone to rolling, this shoe lacks the security you need to run with confidence.

On smooth sidewalks and gym floors, the Revolution 8 performs adequately — the flex grooves allow natural bending, and the touch points at the tongue make for easy on/off. But during sharp turns or on uneven ground, the flat, flexible sole and loose heel let the foot slide, increasing roll risk. Weighing just 7.8 oz, it’s light, but the minimal upper and thin midsole offer little defense against impact or instability. It’s best suited for short jogs or casual wear, not serious training.

Compared to the ASICS Gel-Contend 9, the Revolution 8 offers less impact protection and weaker support, despite a similar price. Against the Brooks Glycerin 22, it’s in a completely different league — lacking both cushioning sophistication and ankle safety. Ideal for beginners with neutral mechanics or those needing a second shoe for the gym, it provides more breathability than stability — falling short where ankle protection is the priority.