Best Shoes for Ankle Support for Seniors – Reviews & Analysis
If you are set on purchasing the best shoes for ankle support for seniors money can get you, but you lack the time to do the research, we can help. After going through numerous reviews, we have concluded that the Skechers Men’s Afterburn is the model that you should invest in. This dual strap sneaker is worthy of your attention as it has a lugged outsole and a padded collar and tongue for added comfort. On top of that, the item features perforated straps at the vamp. As a plus, this product is made from a combination of leather and synthetic material for a better fit. According to current users, the model is well-made and highly comfortable. If this item is out of stock, feel free to take a look at the Skechers Sport Women’s Premium as this is a highly appreciated product that you might equally like.
Comparison table
1st Choice
The sneakers are made from a blend of leather and synthetic fabrics so that you can feel comfortable in them even when walking for miles. The inclusion of a padded tongue and collar increases the comfort even further. The insole is made from memory foam that molds perfectly to the shape of your foot sole.
The vast majority of users had only good things to say about the product. We found only one customer that complained about the sizing of this model, saying that it was too small.
The Skechers Men’s Afterburn is a comfortable product that seeks to offer improved ankle support and to remove ankle pains after a long day of walking.
2nd Best
The shoes feature a sturdy rubber sole and come with a 1 ½ built-in heel designed to offer users some extra-grip when hiking. Similarly, the heel of the shoes features a supportive air cushion for increased comfort. The unit is also very easy to put on and take off without the need of another person’s help.
Customers recommend that if you want to get the best fit possible, you should order at least one size up. The newer models tend to run a bit too small which results in a tighter fit.
For customers that are in search of a pair of quality shoes for elderly women, the Skechers Sport Women’s Premium is a high-quality and affordable pick that is worth considering.
Also To Consider
This comfortable alternative is just what you need if you value comfort. It was manufactured using materials that are both comfy and durable. These shoes are lightweight and they can provide the wearer with the needed support. Plus, this model features a footbed that is anatomically precise.
One issue that you should be aware of is that these shoes tend to show signs of damage after a couple of intense months of use. However, they are, overall, quality, sturdy footwear.
These shoes have a beautiful design that you will surely like and they were specially made to cater to the needs of the wearers. They are available in many sizes and colors.
5 Best Shoes for Ankle Support for Seniors (Reviews) in 2024
Because we know that finding good shoes for ankle support is no easy task, we have decided to put together a list of items that have received excellent reviews from previous buyers. So, read ahead and pick the product you like most!
1. Skechers Men’s Afterburn M. Fit Stike
If you need a pair of senior walking shoes, this model might be just what you need, keeping in mind to use toenail clippers first and keep a good feet hygiene. These sneakers are made from leather and synthetic fabrics so that your feet feel comfortable in them at all times. Furthermore, this model includes a padded tongue and collar for extra comfort.
What is more, the model has a lace-up closure so that they stay fit on one’s feet. The mesh lining included in the design of the shoe is highly breathable, and the insole is made from a memory foam so that your feet won’t feel tired throughout the day.
Moreover, this product comes outfitted with durable, yet flexible rubber traction soles that add to the overall practicality of the item. Each shoe weighs just 1 lb. Current users are happy with the quality of these sneakers. The model fits as expected and it has a nice design that you are prone to like.
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2. Skechers Womens 1704
If you are in search of a pair of shoes for women that can be worn while using a walking stick, check this model out. The product features a sturdy rubber sole, and it includes a 1 ½ built-in heel that supplies the user with extra grip. A supportive air cushion was also placed in the heel of the shoe so the comfort is similar to wearing slippers (check our review).
Furthermore, because of its design, this unit is easy to slip on and take off without extra help. The model has a padded collar and tongue for extra comfort. The upper part of the shoe is made from leather for durability reasons. The outsole of the unit is tractioned so that one feels stable while wearing it.
As expected, the elastic inserts featured in the construction of the model guarantee a snug, yet entirely comfy fit that most seniors appreciate. Lastly, the EVA midsole is another feature that ensures perfect shock absorption.
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3. Ryka Women’s Devotion Plus 2
These walking shoes were specially designed to be worn by women. They were made of mesh and synthetic materials and they come fitted with a flexible, yet durable sole. They have a breathable construction that you will certainly appreciate, especially if you plan on wearing these shoes during the summer.
Besides, they can provide you with increased support. They are suitable for people with fallen arches. Because of its design, this choice sold by Ryka is very much comfortable and, thus, suitable for all those users who like to practice sports and still feel comfortable. The shoes are also lightweight as they only measure 8.3 oz. Therefore, you won’t feel uncomfortable while wearing them.
The footbed of this model was especially shaped to fit the anatomical shape of your feet so that you can move freely while wearing this model. What is more, the design of these shoes is quite modern.
Pros
The main advantage of these shoes is the fact that they are comfortable. They can provide users with plenty of comfort and they can be used in a myriad of circumstances.
Because these shoes are highly breathable, they are particularly handy to wear during the warmer months of the year when ventilation is essential in footwear.
The model was specially constructed to fit the shape of your feet. Therefore, they can supply you with increased support.
If you love colorful shoes, this product is what you need. Even more so, this alternative is available in a wide array of colors.
Cons
When used intensely, the soles of the model start to show signs of wear. This is to be expected from most shoes of this type.
The vinyl detail that is placed on the side of the shoes is prone to peel off after a couple of months. Yet, this also depends on how you look after them.
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4. Propét Men’s Cliff Walker Strap Walking Shoes
Another product that might also stir your interest is the Propet Cliff Walker. This item was made from a weather-resistant leather upper and it is said to have a waterproof construction. Moreover, this shoe features a padded mesh-lined collar, and it includes a hook-and-loop strap closure so that one won’t have troubles putting the shoes on or taking them off.
The item also has cushioned EVA midsoles that are extra lightweight as well as rubber outsoles that can provide the user with an excellent grip. The product runs true to size, and it was designed to keep one’s feet dry and comfortable during walks.
Overall, this model has received great reviews from prior buyers. Most of the current users were happy to say that the product is comfortable and nice fitting. On top of that, these shoes are liked because the soles that it includes are quite sturdy when compared to similar models.
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5. Propet Men’s Tyler Chelsea Boot
If you need a product that has been Medicare approved and that can be used with a travel wheelchair, this model might be just what you need. These boots come provided with a shock absorbing TPR outsole that supplies the user with the much-needed stability and durability. Moreover, these boots incorporate a heat retaining mechanism that makes them perfect to wear during the colder months of the year.
Also, because of the sturdy heel that these shoes come equipped with, the product allows for easy movement. Besides, because they were made from high-quality materials, these boots offer reliability and longevity.
Last but not least, this model has an easy-to-wear construction and a fully adjustable strap closure. The 1.5-inch heel that the model features adds elegance to the design of the shoe. The manufacturer points out that this is practical, yet semi-formal casual footwear.
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Our Yearly Guide
Seniors usually suffer from sore feet and pain in their ankles due to numerous medical conditions like arthritis or neuropathy. And, as you know, finding cheap shoes for ankle support is no easy task, especially if you do not know much about the topic.
To be of help to you, we took it upon ourselves to do the research on your behalf. As a result, we put together a comprehensive list of features that you should not overlook when shopping in this line of products.
Ankle and heel support
According to numerous reviews of shoes for ankle support, when shopping in this line of products, it is important that you pay attention to the type of support that the products can offer. First of all, make sure that the selected item can provide special ankle support. In other words, the product that you purchase should come higher up on the ankles and wrap itself around the user’s ankle. This way, the chance of an injury or a fall is reduced.
Also, you should know that, according to the specialists, the weaker the user’s ankle is, the higher the support of the shoe should be.
Furthermore, it is critical that you look for a product for sale that features air or gel cushions under the heel of each shoe. This way, the wearer will feel comfortable at all times. Also, if you want a model that won’t cause the user to slip, it is highly recommended that you buy an item that has a rigid and durable rubber sole.
Moreover, it might also be a good idea to make sure that the item that you are determined to purchase has a rugged bottom that can supply one with the necessary amount of grip while walking. Also, the soles of the unit should be shock-absorbing. This way, the ankle and the heels will feel a softer impact while walking.
Comfort and a good fit
Quality shoes are just as important to seniors as a top-notch blood pressure bracelet. If you want to purchase an appropriate model, it is vital that you also pay attention to the comfort and the fit of the selected product.
Therefore, the shoes that you buy should not increase the pain in the feet or in the legs. Also, the materials utilized in making the shoes should be highly breathable. This way, the itchiness, and the irritations one develops due to the heat won’t be a problem anymore. As a plus, this issue is significantly important if you purchase shoes for a person that wears shoes for a long period of time throughout the day.
Additionally, seniors should be given well-fitting shoes. So, it is worth pointing out that the market is filled with different types of models that are available in various toe-lengths. Moreover, keep in mind that it is recommendable that seniors wear wider models that allow for increased stability.
What is more, if the person that you are shopping for has wide feet, it is best that you buy a pair of shoes that has a wider front, as rounder closed fronts are usually tighter and, thus, more restricting.
Extra tips and tricks
Another crucial element that you should remember while shopping for a product of this kind is that the shoes worn by seniors should be easy to put on/take off. Therefore, you should look for a model that has a wide opening. This feature is even more important if the person that you are shopping for has swollen feet or if he/she has to deal with restricted mobility.
Moreover, just like senior exercise equipment, the selected product has to be easy to maintain. Because seniors have limited abilities to move around and do chores, you should choose a model that is stain-proofed and of a darker color. Consequently, he/she will not have to spend extra time and effort cleaning the shoes.
Even more so, it is key that you buy a shoe that has adequate padding as soft padded shoes can deliver a secure fit. Additionally, this type of shoes will prevent bruising and the abrasions usually caused by constant friction.
Lastly, before you start exploring the market, it might be a good idea to have a word of advice with a doctor or a podiatrist as he/she will be able to give you extra guidance. Also, if you have the time, you should read this guide on how to buy wrist blood pressure monitors. Additionally, this article on how to pick a lift chair is equally informative.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Are high top shoes better for ankles?
Well, in short, it depends. When it comes to this question, the answers provided by the experts are not as straightforward as one might expect. It all depends on the type of activity that you perform.
For instance, if you like to practice sports where the risk of an ankle sprain is high, just like basketball, you should opt for a high-top shoe. Moreover, you should wear this type of shoes whenever you are recovering from an ankle injury, or if you are prone to sustain injuries of this sort. If you want to get all the protection that you can, it might be a good idea to also invest in ankle braces.
However, some studies indicated that people that were involved in dynamic sports did not necessarily benefit from high-top shoes. Even more so, scientists have shown that, at the end of the day, the strength of your ankles is more important than the type of shoes that you are wearing.
Q: Can stability shoes cause ankle pain?
If you wear shoes that do not suit the shape of your feet, chances are that you will feel some discomfort when using them. The first thing that you should take into account before ordering shoes of this type is the kind of arch that your feet have, high, neutral, or flat.
As expected, people with flat feet need more support from their shoes than those who have natural arches. Similarly, people with high arches need shoes that have extra padding so that their feet get the right kind of support.
If you order a pair of shoes that can provide you with the necessary support and comfort, ankle pain is not something that you will have to deal with on a day to day basis.
To alleviate ankle pain, be sure to take the necessary time to rest. Also, you can try placing an ice pack or a compress on your ankles. Some specialists say that elevating your fit can also help with the pain and discomfort.
Q: Is walking bad for my ankle pain?
If you have sustained an injury or if you simply feel pain in your ankle, you should refrain from putting pressure on your foot. This means that you should avoid walking over long distances.
The best thing that you can do when having a painful ankle is to rest. However, if the pain persists or if it does not show signs that it is improving after a matter of weeks, it is recommended that you visit your MD.
Similarly, if you are dealing with an ankle injury and the swelling does not go away after five days of at-home care, you should go to a doctor immediately.
In the case of minor injuries, you should place an ice pack on your ankle for about 20 minutes every day. To reduce swelling, you should keep your foot in an elevated position. If the pain is an issue, you can use over-the-counter pain medication such as ibuprofen.
Q: How can I strengthen my ankles?
If you have weak ankles, there are a couple of exercises that you can try to strengthen them. Having strong ankles makes you less predisposed to dealing with sprains and other similar injuries.
So, what can you do? For example, you can do heel walks, towel pulls, standing calf raises and even lateral leaps. You can find tutorials about how to do these exercises online.
If you are not great at following instructions and you are looking for a simpler exercise, you will be happy to find out that hopping exercises are also quite practical. So, don’t waste any of your time and start hopping.
Unavailable products
Orthofeet Diabetic Velcro Boots
If you are shopping for a person that suffers from diabetes, take a good look at this item manufactured and distributed by Orthofeet. These boots are highly appreciated by other users because they supply the buyer with orthotic support. In fact, the special insole that the model features has an anatomical arch that makes the shoe conform to the shape of the user’s foot.
As a result, this product enhances one’s overall comfort, and it helps alleviate the pain diabetes sufferers tend to feel in their heels, feet, knees, lower back or hips. As a plus, because it aims to cater to its buyers’ needs, this model was constructed from lightweight materials.
Additionally, the included sole features air cushions that make it easy for one to walk in these boots. This way, better foot motion is facilitated.
Furthermore, the model has a non-binding and extra deep design that eliminates the pressure on one’s toes and bunions.
Bibliography:
1) Ankle injuries – how can you prevent them
2) Ankle Supports – Everything You Need to Know
3) What’s the Right Shoe to Avoid Ankle Sprains?
4) What Is Chronic Ankle Instability?
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2 COMMENTS
January 17, 2021 at 3:34 pm
Great Information. I am interested in helping seniors. One way is to help them using an ankle brace when needed. Are there any concerns that would prohibit a senior from using your ideas? I enjoyed your post and will be coming back. Be safe.
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January 21, 2021 at 8:23 am
Hi Ed. Thank you for your feedback. Could you please be more specific with your question? To what ideas are you referring?
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