If you have had an ankle surgery lately then it would already be a devastating time for you. The last thing you would want to do is get into the hassle of shopping malls and stores to get supportive shoes that in the end disappoint you.
Therefore, to make this process easier for you we have made a list of the best shoes to wear after ankle surgery.
Table of Contents
Features that you should look in a shoe after an ankle surgery
Just because you are in a flat shoe does not always mean that it is a shoe with good structure. There are various features that a shoe must have to provide enough comfort and stability after ankle surgery.
Your feet lay a foundation that is going to affect your hips, ankles, knees, and your neck. So, if you do not have a reliable foundation you are setting yourself up for failure.
So, what are the characteristics that separate a normal shoe from shoes that you should after ankle surgery? Take a look below;
Sufficient arch support
Heel and ankle support
Insole cushioning
Overall shoe feel
Lightweight
Ground grip
List of best shoes to wear after ankle surgery:
1. Adidas Men’s Pro Next 2019 Basketball Shoe – Best shoes after ankle surgery
2. Brooks Men’s Addiction Walker Walking Shoes – Best shoes to wear after a broken ankle
3. BRONAX Men’s Stylish Graffiti Sneakers – Best shoes for broken ankle recovery
4. Nike Men’s Air Precision NBK Basketball Shoe – Best shoes after a broken foot
5. Clarks Men’s Vargo Apron Ankle Boot – Best footwear after broken ankle
6. New Balance Men’s M1340 Optimal Control Running Shoe – Best sneakers for ankle fusion
7. New Balance Men’s 928 V3 Lace-Up Walking Shoe – Best shoes for ankle fusion
8. Saucony Men’s Grid Omni Walker Running Shoe – Best shoe after calcaneal fracture
9.Brooks Ghost 11 – Best shoes for broken foot
1. Adidas Men’s Pro Next 2019 Basketball Shoe – Best shoes for ankle injury
Product details:
Product dimensions: 13 x 9 x 4.9 inches
Weight: 1.25 Pounds
Manufacturer: Adidas
Department: Men’s
Item model number: G54445
There are not many in the market that can top Adidas when it comes to providing comfort and stability. Adidas has been on top of its game for decades and they leave little to no room for complaints.
This footwear is no exception. The traction of these shoes is a full herringbone pattern using solid rubber. This makes it fully non-slip on any surface.
Moreover, one feature that makes these shoes unique is the Cloudfoam midsole which is engineered with a lot of cushioning that enhances the comfortability and stability of these shoes.
Pros:
Anti-slip
Cloudfoam midsole provides supreme cushioning
Ultra-grip
Easy to clean
Cons:
The outsole is a bit squeaky
Sizes may run a little small
Why is this product recommended?
The upper of the shoes is synthetic which plays a crucial role in increasing their durability. Furthermore, they have enough impact protection. They are also easy enough to clean.
Another plus point of these boots is that they do not dig holes in your pockets when you buy them. So, in a nutshell, you would get a top-notch quality product that too at an affordable price.
User review on Adidas Men’s Pro Next 2019 Basketball Shoe – top-rated shoes for ankle injury
“This is the only basketball shoe I’ve found that fits my weirdly shaped feet. I’m an 8.5M US size and other basketball shoes I’ve tried in person are just so narrow they don’t fit me, even if I try a half a step up at 9.0M in the US or sometimes even 9.5M US. I’m a big fan of this shoe. It seems durable, easy enough to clean, and has just enough impact protection for me.”
2. Brooks Men’s Addiction Walker Walking Shoes – Comfortable shoes to wear after foot surgery
Product details:
Product dimensions: 13.9 x 8.6 x 5.3 inches
Weight: 13.7 Ounces
Manufacturer: Brooks
Department: Men’s
Item model number: 1100391B
Next on our list of best shoes to wear after ankle surgery is Brooks men’s addiction walker walking shoes. These shoes are not only 100% leather but they also come with synthetic soles which enhances their durability.
Moreover, the forefoot MC Pod construction of the shoes and an innovative outsole enables them to provide stability as well as sufficient structure.
Looking for arch support? If so, then you are at the right place. These Brook’s shoes are equipped with an extended progressive diagonal rollbar which assists in keeping your body in its natural path of motion.
Pros:
Removable insert
Tons of cushioning adds to the comfort
Shock absorption
Superior stability
Sufficient arch support
Cons:
The rubber from the front of the toe may peel off.
It does not look trendy
Why is this product recommended?
Constructed out of full-grain leather, these shoes are going to provide you with loads of cushioning. The BioMoGo DNA is iconic to Brooks which is going to deflect impact away from your body.
These shoes are going to provide you with tons of cushioning on the tongue and collar. Another plus point of these shoes is that they come with a removable and cushioned insert that you can replace with your orthotics.
The midsole is going to provide maximum support. They are going to help place your body strategically and give you arch support.
This shoe is designed to help you with your overpronation. Furthermore, on the bottom, you will find a slip-resistant outsole that is environment-friendly and meant for wet and dry surfaces.
User review on Brooks Men’s Walking Shoes – best boots to wear after foot surgery
“These are shoes that keep my plantar fasciitis and knee problems at bay- I needed to add the Dr. Scholl gel inserts for better arch support in place of the factory insole. I wear these every day! The only weak spot is the small toe area ay the crease point- See Photo. My set before this also failed in the same area. – I still have 50 % of the sole left of the shoe and use them as my around the house shoes.”
3. BRONAX Men’s Stylish Graffiti Personality Sneakers – Best shoes for ankle support when walking
Product details:
Product dimensions: 9.6 x 5.9 x 3.4 inches
Weight: 1.3 Pounds
Manufacturer: BRONAX
Department: Men’s
Slip-resistant, supportive, and soon to be your favorite are these sneakers. Wherever the day takes you, rest assured that you would be protected with this contemporary pair from BRONAX.
The slip-on design of these shoes makes them convenient and gives them a secure fit. To add to the comfort of these shoes BRONAX has equipped these shoes with loads of cushioning around the tongue and collar.
These men’s shoes are pretty versatile as they can go with multiple outfits.
Pros:
Waterproof
Slip-resistant
Versatile
Sufficient cushioning
Cons:
A bit tight
No memory foam
Why is this product recommended?
These shoes are manufactured with a long-lasting rubber outsole that provides a comfortable fit as well as tons of cushioning for the comfort of the wearer.
If you are worried about the price of these shoes then there is no need to. This is because they can be bought for a price as low as $40. Yeah, you read that right.
So, what are you sitting tight for? Hop on the BRONAX bandwagon and give these affordable yet supreme quality shoes a shot.
User review on BRONAX Men’s Stylish Graffiti Personality Sneakers
“$36 internet shoes??? I didn’t have high expectations. Then when my mailman crammed them in my mailbox because they were packaged in a bag instead of a box I was expecting the worse only to open them and be pleasantly surprised. Not only were they in great condition but they fit really well and were pretty comfortable (for a $30 pair of shoes). If they are reasonably long-lasting, I will be purchasing them again.”
4. Nike Men’s Air Precision NBK Basketball Shoe – Best shoe to wear with walking boot
Product details:
Manufacturer: Nike
Department: Men’s
Item model number: O0057DCKUS886549166359
Wondering what are Basketball shoes doing here? Well, these shoes are not only designed for playing Basketball. They also serve their purpose in providing sufficient comfort and stability especially to the people who just had ankle surgery.
These shoes are designed with a midfoot webbing system that increases the comfort of the shoes. Furthermore, the synthetic overlays are strategically placed in areas where they give a structural advantage to the wearer.
If you are looking for durable traction then these shoes have that in store for you as well. The modified herringbone tread pattern not only increases durability but also provides traction on multiple surfaces.
Pros:
Lightweight
Durable
Traction on various kinds of surfaces
Provide great stability
Cons:
The toe box might be a bit irritating
Not enough inner comfortability
Why is this product recommended?
These are well-stitched shoes made with supreme quality that you can add to your closet. The mesh detail in the shoes assists in stretching the lifetime of the shoes.
The mesh also plays an active role in enhancing the breathability of the shoes which is one of the reasons we have listed this product in our list of best shoes to wear after ankle surgery.
User review on Nike Men’s Air Precision NBK Basketball Shoe
“Real basketball players know shoes. If you ever think about your shoe while playing it’s not right. These fit me perfectly. 4 of the last 5 pairs I’ve tried I’ve sent back. I bought two pairs of these–superb heel hold, super-even tie-down pressure, great airflow/breathability, superb court stick. A basketball shoe for basketball players.”
5. Clarks Men’s Vargo Apron Ankle Boot – Best shoes after back surgery
Product details:
Product dimensions: 10 x 15 x 6 inches
Weight: 1.9 Pounds
Manufacturer: Clarks
Department: Men’s
Item model number: 26138814
This ankle boot from Clarks features a soft and durable leather upper. The almond toe silhouette adds to the trendy look of these shoes.
Furthermore, a traditional lace-up design provides a secure fit around the foot. There is sufficient padding along the collar of the shoes which is going to provide you with comfort as well as stability when you are taking a walk.
These shoes are equipped with a removable cushioned footbed which plays a significant role in shock absorption. It is also perforated for added breathability.
Now, another interesting feature of these shoes is that their footbed is equipped with antimicrobial properties that keep the feet of the wearer fresh. All of this is on top of a durable shock-absorbing outsole that is also man-made
Pros:
Lightweight
The lace-up design provides a secure fit
Man-made shock absorption
Increased breathability
Cons:
The toe box is a bit tight
Normal size may run a bit tight
Why is this product recommended?
A lightweight shoe that has got plenty of styles and comforts up its sleeves which makes it a true Clarks sensation.
These shoes have a rubber midsole which makes them slip-resistant. They are designed in a way that provides superior arch and heel support. So, grab these shoes from Clark’s and get your recovery started.
User review on Clarks Men’s Vargo Apron Ankle Boot
“I haven’t worn them outside yet, no sense in taking them out in the sloppy weather in Michigan. They feel good in the house. They look just like the image, quite awesome. They are a little goofy to slip on…..you have to loosen the laces as much as possible to be able to stick your foot in, but you’re fine once you lace them back up.”
6. New Balance Men’s M1340 Optimal Control Running Shoe – Best shoes to wear with a sprained ankle
Product details:
Product dimensions: 12.8 x 7 x 4.9 inches
Weight: 13.5 Ounces
Manufacturer: New Balance
Department: Men’s
Item model number: M1340SB2
The 1340 V1 is a predecessor to 1012. This optimal control trainer is designed with both maximum stability and ultimate cushioning. The 1340 features are much lighter than its predecessor with an improved upper fit and a whole new sole unit.
Modern aesthetics through design materials and color brings richness to the motion control category. These shoes are made with synthetic and mesh upper with a collar foam lining and a plush PU insert gratification.
The midsole is made of n2 which is a new bottom cushioning unit that is a responsive, durable, and sustainable cushioning system in a low profile execution.
A lightweight and flexible TPU shank for optimal stability and arch support is found in the arch area.
Pros:
Maximum stability
Superior arch support
Durable
Cons:
Firmer than usual ride
Why is this product recommended?
The premium technology allows 1340 to offer the best cushioning and support making it one of the best shoes to wear after ankle surgery.
These shoes are 75% synthetic and 25% mesh. Furthermore, they are equipped with an ABZORB crash pad heel unit which adds to the stability and comfort of the shoes.
User review on New Balance Men’s M1340 Optimal Control Running Shoe
“This is my first pair of New Balance running shoes and they are awesome. I ordered a 10.54E size. It fits exceptionally well. The soft gel sole is very comfortable. The tread is durable and ready for long walks or runs. The tongue of the shoe is padded and doesn’t put pressure on the foot. The ankle support is padded and provides stability during walks. Even the color/style is pretty awesome. There are reflective strips that will stand out when walking/running in low-light situations.”
7. New Balance Men’s 928 V3 Lace-Up Walking Shoe – Best athletic shoes for ankle support
Product details:
Product dimensions: 10 x 15 x 6 inches
Weight: 1.1 Pounds
Manufacturer: New Balance Athletic Shoe, Inc.
Department: Men’s
Item model number: MW928GY3
The New Balance 928 V3 is an update to V2. This shoe is equipped with a polyurethane insole which makes these shoes compression resistant. This means that with a duration of time the shoe is not going to break down.
These shoes have a phantom liner on the inside which means that you have booting on the inside leather that covers up all the seams and bridges between different panels in the upper.
These shoes give a smooth transition reducing the risk of blistering, shearing, or just even friction from seams. Now, numerous New Balance shoes have this technology but 928 V3 is kind of a flagship.
Pros:
Smooth transition
Wider toe box
Orthotics can easily be fitted
Compression resistant
Additional Underfoot Comfort
Durable
Cons:
Bit pricey
Why is this product recommended?
Moreover, with the upper of the shoe, you have got full-grain upper leather which gives a nice feel and breathes well.
Another tangible benefit for people in pedorthist world is that you can fit foot orthotics or braces into the shoe with ease. You essentially have 90 degrees walls on the side where they meet the board of the shoe. These shoes also provide a bit of roomier fit for wider feet.
So, you are getting a deeper toe box, a relatively medium fit in the midfoot but it is tapering back to the heel. A lot of people need that extra width and depth in the front to accommodate either just a wide foot or things like bunions so 928 V3 really saw it.
User review on New Balance Men’s 928 V3 Lace-Up Walking Shoe
“The color. The feel. How they look. Comfort. Durable. They hold up really well.”
8. Saucony Men’s Grid Omni Walker Running Shoe – Best boots after ankle surgery
Product details:
Product dimensions: 13.5 x 8.4 x 4.8 inches
Weight: 14.6 Ounces
Manufacturer: Saucony
Department: Men’s
Item model number: 4261-1
These men’s running shoes are the perfect fit for the moderate/pronator who needs stability and cushioning. They feature a soft full-grain leather upper with great support and flexibility.
Another great benefit of these shoes is that there is a removable sock liner that you can replace with your custom orthotic. However, if you are keeping the sock liner bear in mind that it is contoured super-cushioned and a nice heel cup for added stability.
There is a visible rearfoot grid system that consists of a woven configuration of Hydro flints. This provides superior cushioning and stability by centering the heel on impact.
Pros:
Supreme midfoot cushioning
The rubber sole adds to the stability
Lightweight
Flexible
Cons:
The bottom does not provide enough traction
The toe box is a bit tight
Why is this product recommended?
These are remarkable walking shoes that feature a four-foot HRC which is a high rebound compound. Now, you may be wondering what is that?’. Well, it is a responsive EB rubber compound that provides cushioning through the later stages of the gait cycle.
There is also a midfoot support bridge and an SRC impact zone for added support and shock absorption. The rubber sole will provide you with all the stability you need and they are lightweight at only 11 ounces with the traditional lace-up design.
So, be sure to get all the comfort and support you need by picking up the grid Omni walk from Saucony.
User review on Saucony Men’s Grid Omni Walker Running Shoe
“Very very happy with the shoes, as they are very supportive especially in the sole of the heel. The sole isn’t collapsing like running shoes do (even Hokas). These shoes are supporting 280 pounds & none of the lines that form in the sole’s sides from weight forces are present from me. I like the leather upper as it breathes & again, is more supportive & holds its shape, better than cloth.”
9. Brooks Ghost 11 – The best footwear to wear after a broken ankle
Product details:
Manufacturer: Brooks
Department: Men’s
Item model number: 1102881D006
One of the best shoes to wear after ankle surgery which makes it a great choice for those with medium to high arches. It also gets greater reviews as both the running and as casual shoes due to the combination of comfort and support that it provides.
The upper in these running shoes are designed with a mesh fabric that is easily flexible and moves freely with your toes while still feeling secure and grippy. Mesh makes these shoes pretty breathable while also being lightweight.
The outsole is made with durable rubber components that are assisted by a segmented crash pad with integrated lug patterns that provide cushioning and smooth heel-to-toe transitions. These shoes are built for performance but work well in various situations.
Pros:
Great arch support
Heel and ankle support
Lace-up closure
Soft cushioning
Secure fit
Cons:
Bit expensive
Not ideal for concrete surface
Why is this product recommended?
The midsole in these shoes is designed with their DNA loft cushioning which offers a soft and springy ride while also proving to be durable. But the arch support derived from the space is still strong and supportive
Now, as far as the cushioning goes it has got cushioned yet highly contoured design which is great for those who need full support.
The Brooks ghost arch support is probably the best combination of comfort and functionality. It is not rigid at all and the ride is comfortable and the support is beneficial.
User review on Brooks Ghost 11
“These shoes are amazing! Super comfy to run. I’m a big guy and these help with the impact from running on pavement. The only complaint I have is that the toe box is a little loose and they run one size too large. I’m normally a 13 4E and that fits snug, but these had about an inch extra past my toe. I had to return them and get 12 4E and they fit perfectly now. Still a little extra room in the toe box but it doesn’t affect my running. Overall great shoes!”
Final verdict:
The main reason behind wearing specific footwear is to provide your foot with as much support as possible. One wrong step will drain all your hard work and recovery.
Many people would look for cheaper options that too without sufficient knowledge. So, why put your recovery in jeopardy just because of few bucks.
We hope that the list above on the best shoes to wear after ankle surgery has made you competent enough to decide on the type of shoes you want.