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Are you looking for the best ankle support shoes for elderly people to improve your gait and stability?
We know how hard it is to good pair of shoes, especially when you’re in your golden age and have foot issues.
But we’re here with our five top picks of the best shoes for ankle support to narrow down your choice.
READ MORE: Best Ankle Brace for Rolling Ankles
Table of Contents
Ankle Support Shoes for Elderly Top Picks at a Glance
If you see the value in these products and choose to purchase via my referral links, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
- Winner: Skechers Sport Women’s Premium-Premix Slip-On Sneaker
- Best for Ankle Pain: Gravity Defyer Proven Pain Relief Women’s G-Defy Ion Athletic Shoes
- Best for Everyday Wear: Skechers Men’s Afterburn M. Fit Strike on
- Best Budget-Friendly: Propet Women’s Tour Walker Strap
Check the table below for a side-by-side comparison of our favorites!
5 BEST Ankle Support Shoes for Elderly (Buyer’s Guide)
Unfortunately, the risk of foot deformities increases with age. And as a study says, “older people frequently wear ill-fitting shoes,” which can lead to reduced mobility and pain when walking.
It makes sense to look for a special shoe design to provide the necessary ankle stability for senior citizens. And we’re here with the five best ankle support shoes for the elderly.
#1 Winner: Skechers Sport Women’s Premium-Premix Slip-On Sneaker
Skechers is one of the leading shoe companies and has an excellent high-quality sneaker for elderly women.
Physical Attributes
- EVA midsole
- Padded collar and tongue
- Cushioned footbed
- Rubber outsole
- Slip-on design
Quantitative Measurements
- Available in a variety of colors
- Size 6 to 11
Benefits & Drawbacks at a Glance
| Benefits | Drawbacks |
|---|---|
| Slip-on design and shock-absorbing midsole | Some customers note that the Premium-Premix sneakers run small. |
| Support weak ankles without restricting your range of motion | They’re also a bit narrower than expected. |
| Very comfortable | |
| Made with traction sole to avoid slipping |
Benefits
Skechers premium sneakers are among the best ankle support shoes for the elderly due to their slip-on design and shock-absorbing midsole.
They support weak ankles without restricting your range of motion, which makes them great for everyday activities and exercises for seniors.
These walking shoes are also very comfortable due to the cushioned insole, padded collar, and breathable material. And since they have a traction sole, they’re great for any physical activity.
Moreover, thanks to the slip-on design, you don’t have to struggle with laces or Velcro straps, which is great for people with hand tremors.
How it Compares to Others and Why
- Elastic front panel and laceless design for extra comfort
- Non-marking rubber sole for extra grip and stability
- Shock-absorbing EVA midsole for weak ankle support
How the Product Evolved
- Upgraded style to match the latest trends
- Employs the newest technology to provide maximum comfort
Expert Tips
- The inner soles aren’t removable so you can’t replace them with an orthotic sole.
- Slip-on sneaker with polished hardware and cushioned tongue and collar
- Supportive sole
- Padded collar and tongue
In this video, I’ll be showing you how to put on an AFO brace for added ankle and foot support:
#2 Best for Ankle Pain: Gravity Defyer Proven Pain Relief Women’s G-Defy Ion Athletic Shoes
If you have painful ankles, you can’t go wrong with these athletic shoes by Gravity Defyer.
While not the cheapest option by a long shot, they’re made to last. As Loaids editor Caroline says,
” I’ve had the a pair of Gravity Defyers (different style) for going on 8 years now, and aside from a few minor fixes to the fabric on the inside of the ankle, they’re still as comfortable as they were on day one.”
Physical Attributes
- Made of fabric and synthetic material
- Breathable mesh uppers
- Removable insoles
- VersoShock technology
Quantitative Measurements
- Size 6 to 11-X wide
- 2.5″ heel hight
| Benefits | Drawbacks |
|---|---|
| A spacious toe box for comfort and breathable mesh for ventilation | Not the cheapest option |
| Reduced foot stress and improved ankle stability due to the unique front rolling design | Not the lightest shoes |
| One of the most durable ankle support shoes for the elderly, according to customers’ experience. | |
| You can remove the insole, making these comfortable shoes great for custom orthotics or the best ankle brace for rolling ankles. |
How it Compares to Others and Why
- You get a bonus podiatrist-grade insoles that are great for plantar fasciitis and arch support.
- VersoShock technology for shock absorption and ankle pain relief
How the Product Evolved
- Available in a leather sole model with a seamless interior to prevent skin irritations
Expert Tips
- These shoes aren’t machine washable.
- They can make great diabetic shoes thanks to the roomy toe box.
- They’re comfortable right out of the box. No need to break them in.
- BREATHABLE MESH UPPER produces proper ventilation & flexibility.
- ROOMY TOE BOX extra room for comfort and better blood circulation.
- FRONT ROLLING FOREFOOT DESIGN Smooth movement and stability.
- REMOVABLE INSOLES to accommodate custom orthotic support.
- BONUS FREE PAIR podiatrist-grade CorrectiveFit orthotic insoles in every box - corrects body alignment and helps with plantar fasciitis.
#3 Best for Everyday Wear: Skechers Men’s Afterburn M. Fit Strike on
Skechers have an excellent comfortable walking shoe that provides ample ankle joint support and is perfect for everyday wear.
Physical Attributes
- Made from leather and textile
- Synthetic sole
- Hook-and-loop Velcro strap
Quantitative Measurements
- Size 6.5 to 16-X wide
- Weight of 14 oz per shoe
| Benefits | Drawbacks |
|---|---|
| Dual hook and loop straps for a snug fit | Short Velcro straps, especially if you have swollen feet |
| Easy to put on/off and lightweight | Stiffer than other Sketcher’s models |
| Breathable mesh lining with non-removable memory foam insoles for extra comfort and ventilation | |
| Shock-absorption midsole for ankle and joints stability |
How It Compares to Others and Why
- Available in a greater range of widths than other models
- Durable leather uppers with synthetic overlays
- Flexible soles with traction
How the Product Evolved
- Velcro straps instead of laces for easy removal
Expert Tips
- The shoes are roomy enough to accommodate the best ankle brace for arthritis or other AFOs.
- Dual-strap sneaker featuring lugged outsole and padded tongue and collar
- Perforated hook-and-loop straps at vamp
#4 Best for Runners & Active People: Adidas Women’s Cloudfoam Pure Running Shoe
If you’re looking for sneakers that support your ankles while running (or just running errands), the Cloudfoam Pure Running shoe by Adidas is a great pick.
Physical Attributes
- Made from 100% Textile Synthetics
- Cloudfoam memory foam
- Rollbar stability system and Walking Strike Path
- A foam footbed
- Phantom Liner interior
Quantitative Measurements
- Available in 30 colors
- Size 5 to 12
- 6-12 inches around
Benefits
| Benefits | Drawbacks |
|---|---|
| Upper shoe hugs your foot to provide added support. | Not all sizes come in all colors |
| Soft midsole for added cushioning | One width only, no “wide” or “narrow” options |
| Sock-like design molds to your foot | |
| Very breathable thanks to the stretchable mesh |
How it Compares to Others and Why
- Available in a wide range of sizes to accommodate most users
Expert Tips
- Some feel that they run a bit large. They’re part of Amazon Prime Wardrobe, so you can try them on before committing.
- Stretchy, mesh running shoes with extra cushioning for all-day comfort
- Stretchable mesh upper for breathability
- Combined Cloudfoam midsole and outsole for step-in comfort and superior cushioning
- Cloudfoam memory sockliner molds to the foot for superior step-in comfort
- Sock-like construction hugs the foot
#5 Best Budget-Friendly: Propet Women’s Tour Walker Strap
Propet has excellent ankle support shoes for elderly patients with adequate padding and heel support for stability.
Physical Attributes
- Full-grain leather uppers
- Nylon lining
- Adjustable hook-and-loop Velcro straps
- EVA midsole
Quantitative Measurements
- Sizes 5-X, 10-X, and 10.5 Wide
| Benefits | Drawbacks |
|---|---|
| Durable leather construction with comfortable nylon padding for additional comfort | It takes a while the break the shoes |
| Easy to put on/off thanks to the adjustable Velcro straps | Too narrow for some users |
| Sturdy rubber sole for traction and external/internal heel counters | |
| Affordable price |
How It Compares to Others and Why
- Full-grain leather upper for durability and flexibility
- Medicare-approved diabetic shoe (A5500)
How the Product Evolved
- No information about upgrades but we’d like to see the shoe in wider sizes
Expert Tips
- The removable footbed allows you to use orthopedic inserts for additional comfort.
- Medicare/HCPCS code A5500 diabetic shoe
- This style tends to run large. For an accurate fit we recommend purchasing a 1/2 size smaller than you typically purchase. For example, if you normally purchase a size 7 1/2, we recommend purchasing a size 7
How to Choose the Best Ankle Support Shoes for Elderly People
Let’s talk about what features matter the most when choosing the best ankle support shoes for elderly women and men.
Material
You want breathable and durable material to ensure that your feet won’t get all sweaty or wear down in a season.
Soles
Avoid smooth soles because they are slippery and are dangerous for elderly people with foot problems. Choose shoes with traction soles for greater stability.
Comfort
Look for shoes with extra padding inside, cushioned collars, and a roomy toe box. Shock absorbing midsoles are also great for reducing foot pain.
Type of Lacing
Velcro straps are better than laces for elderly patients because they’re easier to fasten and can be adjusted.
Type of Heel
As a study says, “older people should wear shoes with low heels and firm slip-resistant soles.”
Flat or low heels are best because they provide better support and put less stress on your ankle and joints.
FAQs
What Type of Shoe is Good for Elderly People?
The best shoes for elderly people have gripped soles with either a slip-on design or Velcro fastening. The shoes should also absorb shock and support the ankle.
When Should You Replace Your Walking Shoes?
It depends on how much you use them and how often. But the best ankle support shoes for the elderly can last a full year they wear down and need to be replaced.
What Can You Do for Weak Ankles?
Exercising and wearing proper supportive shoes are essential for weak ankles. Preventing repetitive injuries, such as sprains, to the ankle is also important.
Talk to your doctor about when to wear an ankle brace for sprains and how to put on a brace because incorrect use can make your weak ankles worse.
Conclusion
The right pair of shoes can make all the difference when you lack the necessary ankle support or struggle with other foot deformities.
But talk to a podiatrist or an orthopedic if you have any health conditions that affect your ankle and joints before you try a new style of shoes.
- Slip-on sneaker with polished hardware and cushioned tongue and collar
- Supportive sole
- Padded collar and tongue
References
- Cemental, Michelle. 2015. “Guide to Selecting the Proper Footwear for Senior Fall Prevention.” Caringseniorservice.com. Caring Senior Service. November 11, 2015. https://www.caringseniorservice.com/blog/selecting-the-proper-footwear-for-seniors.
- Jellema, Anton H., Toon Huysmans, Klaas Hartholt, and Tischa J.M. van der Cammen. 2019. “Shoe Design for Older Adults: Evidence from a Systematic Review on the Elements of Optimal Footwear.” Maturitas 127 (September): 64–81. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.maturitas.2019.06.002.
- Menant, Jasmine C, Julie R Steele, Hylton Menz, and Stephen R Lord. 2008. “Optimizing Footwear for Older People at Risk of Falls.” ResearchGate. unknown. February 2008. https://www.researchgate.net/publication/24032887_Optimizing_footwear_for_older_people_at_risk_of_falls.
What do you think about these 5 best ankle support shoes for elderly people? Have you ever worn them? Tell us what you think in the comment section.
