As a seasoned tennis coach with years of experience both on and off the court, I can’t stress enough the importance of proper footwear in the game. Tennis is a high-impact sport that demands quick lateral movements, sudden stops, and rapid accelerations. All these actions put a considerable amount of stress on your ankles, making them susceptible to injuries if not adequately supported.

Selecting the right tennis shoes that offer excellent ankle support is not just a matter of comfort but a crucial aspect of your performance and long-term physical health.

In this blog post, we’ll explore the top tennis shoes for ankle support in 2024, breaking down their features, benefits, and what makes them stand out in a crowded market. Let’s get started.

1. Brooks Women’s Running Shoes – (Best Women’s Tennis Shoes For Ankle Support)

I recently had the opportunity to observe one of my female tennis students wearing the Brooks Women’s Trace Neutral Running Shoe during practice sessions. While I usually focus on tennis-specific footwear, the Brooks Trace caught my attention for its versatility on the court.

The shoe offers a comfortable fit right out of the box, which is a significant advantage for anyone who doesn’t want to go through a break-in period. The cushioning is well-balanced, providing a soft landing without compromising the responsiveness needed for quick lateral movements. However, I did notice that the shoe’s breathability could be improved. After a long session, my student mentioned that her feet felt a bit warmer than usual.

Despite this minor drawback, the Brooks Women’s Trace Neutral Running Shoe stands as a good option for those looking for a balanced blend of comfort and performance.

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2. ASICS Women’s Gel-Kayano 24 Running Shoe – (Best Asics For Ankle Support Shoes)

This model is so good that I even recommended my wife to buy a pair. The Gel-Kayano 24 offers an exceptional level of stability, thanks to its Dynamic DuoMax Support System. This feature is particularly beneficial for tennis players who require a stable base for quick lateral movements. The shoe also incorporates ASICS’ renowned GEL cushioning in both the forefoot and rearfoot, providing excellent shock absorption during high-impact activities.

While it may not be the lightest shoe on the market, its robust construction and advanced features make it a reliable choice for athletes who need extra ankle support.

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3. New Balance Women’s Modern – A Premium Choice

This is another women model that I have to recommend you, like that is the case with all my female students. The shoe is engineered with a Rollbar, a thermoplastic polyurethane post, designed to minimize rearfoot movement.

This is particularly beneficial for tennis players who need to maintain stability during rapid directional changes. The shoe also incorporates a TS2 (Transitional Support System) multi-density medial support, which aids in a smooth transition from heel strike to toe-off.

Additionally, it features a top-of-the-line ABZORB foam insole for cushioning and Ndurance rubber in high-wear areas of the outsole for extra durability. However, it’s worth noting that the shoe is on a higher prize-range point.

Still, even though it may come at a higher price point, its advanced features and durable construction make it a worthwhile investment for serious athletes.

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4. Nike Air Zoom Vapor X HC Men’s Tennis Shoes Aa8030 Sneakers Trainers – (Best Sneaker For Ankle Support)

As someone who spends a considerable amount of time on the tennis court, both coaching and playing, I recently decided to invest in a pair of Nike Air Zoom Vapor X HC Men’s Tennis Shoes. I’ve been wearing them for a few weeks now, and I have some insights to share.

The first thing that caught my attention was the shoe’s responsiveness. The Air Zoom unit in the heel provides excellent cushioning, which is crucial for the quick stops and starts in tennis. The shoe also features a full-length TPU foot frame that wraps up the outside of your foot for added stability, allowing me to make those quick lateral movements with confidence. However, I did find that the shoe runs a bit narrow, which took some time to get used to.

Overall, the Nike Air Zoom Vapor X HC offers a blend of comfort, stability, and responsiveness that makes it a strong contender for anyone serious about their tennis game. The higher price may surprise some people since it is noticeably higher when compared to many models in the same category, but, believe me, it’s worth the investment.

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5. New Balance Women’s 608 V5 Cross Trainer – For Versatile Use

One of my female students recently started wearing the New Balance Women’s WX608v4 Comfort Pack Training Shoe, and I must say, the shoe has some noteworthy features.

The shoe is crafted with 100% leather, which adds to its durability. The rubber sole offers decent grip, and the PU Foam insert provides long-lasting comfort. What caught my attention was the lightweight injection-molded EVA foam midsole, which seemed to offer her lightweight cushioning during intense tennis sessions.

However, it’s not all sunshine and rainbows. While the shoe offers good support, the Phantom Liner interior could be a bit more seamless to reduce irritation. But overall, it’s a solid choice for anyone looking for a mix of comfort and support.

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6. ASICS Women’s Gel-Resolution 7 Tennis Shoe – (Best Shoes For Weak Ankle)

This shoe is no ordinary tennis shoe; it’s built like a tank but moves like a sports car. The AHAR (ASICS High Abrasion Rubber) outsole is a game-changer, offering exceptional durability and traction on the court. It’s the kind of shoe that makes you feel grounded, allowing for quick pivots and sprints without a second thought.

But what sets it apart from other models is its PGuard Toe Protector. I’ve seen plenty of toe-dragging during serves and volleys, and this feature is a lifesaver for the shoe’s longevity. However, it’s worth mentioning that the break-in period is a bit longer than other models, so patience is key.

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7. Diadora Men’s Tennis-Shoes

I recently added the Diadora Blushield Torneo Tennis Shoe to my collection, and I’ve got some thoughts to share. First off, this shoe is a blend of innovation and functionality. The nucleo technology in the metatarsal area offers top-notch cushioning and impact absorption. This feature is particularly useful for those intense matches where every step counts.

The shoe also comes with a medial stabilizer that controls the torsional stability of the arch support area. This gives the shoe a lightweight feel without compromising on impact absorption. It’s a feature that I didn’t know I needed until I experienced it. However, I did find that the shoe runs a bit narrow, so if you have wide feet, you might want to consider going half a size up.

What really caught my attention was the DURATECH 5000 outsole. This special rubber compound ensures much greater wear resistance than standard rubber, effectively tackling the issue of heel wear.

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Things You Need to Know Before Buying Tennis Shoes for Ankle Support

As both a coach and exhibition player, I’ve always been on the lookout for the perfect pair of shoes. Having put in the work to find the perfect pair of shoes for ankle support, there are several factors to take into account.

Here’s my take on what you need to know before buying tennis shoes for ankle support:

Fit

The fit of the shoe is crucial. I’ve found that shoes that are too loose can cause my foot to slide around, which can lead to ankle injuries.

On the other hand, shoes that are too tight can cause discomfort and restrict movement. It’s all about finding that perfect balance.

Support

Ankle support is a must, especially if you’re prone to sprains like me. I’ve found that shoes with a higher collar provide better ankle support, reducing the risk of injury.

Stability

Stability is key in tennis. I’ve tried shoes with different types of soles and found that those with a wider base tend to offer more stability, helping me maintain balance during quick movements on the court.

Comfort

Comfort is subjective, but for me, it’s about how the shoe feels after hours of play. I’ve found that shoes with good cushioning and breathability tend to be more comfortable in the long run.

Material

The material of the shoe can affect its breathability, comfort, and durability. I’ve tried shoes made of leather, synthetic materials, and mesh, and each has its pros and cons.

It’s about finding what works best for you.

Durability and Quality

Lastly, the durability and quality of the shoe are important. I’ve learned the hard way that cheaper shoes may not last as long, especially with the rigorous demands of tennis.

FAQs

How long does a sprained ankle stay swollen?

Swelling from a sprained ankle can last anywhere from a few days to a couple of weeks, depending on the severity of the sprain. If swelling last longer than a couple day, consult a medical professional

Why do your ankles hurt when you wear your shoes?

Poorly fitting shoes can cause your foot to move around too much, which can lead to ankle pain and injury. I’ve found that shoes with good support and stability can help prevent this.

Do tennis shoes protect your ankles?

Yes, tennis shoes designed with ankle support can help protect your ankles by providing stability and reducing the risk of sprains or injuries during lateral movements and quick turns.

Can weak ankles be strengthened?

Yes, from my experience, exercises like calf raises and ankle circles can help strengthen the ankles and reduce the risk of injury.

Are high-top sneakers good for ankle support?

In my experience, high-top sneakers can provide good ankle support, but they may not offer the same level of comfort and flexibility as tennis shoes designed specifically for the sport.

Conclusion

Finding the right tennis shoes for ankle support can be a bit of a journey, but it’s definitely worth it. From my experience, considering factors like fit, support, stability, comfort, material, durability, and quality can make a significant difference.

But remember, everyone’s feet are different, so what works for me might not work for you. It’s all about finding what makes you comfortable and keeps you safe on the court. I hope to have helped you get out on the court and play pain-free.