11 Best Orthopedician-Approved Shoes To Wear After An Ankle Surgery – 2024
With these comfortable, lightweight shoes, you'll be back on your feet in no time!
Dr. Dave CandyDPT, OCS, ATC, FAAOMPT 
Dr. Dave Candy is a board-certified specialist in orthopedic physical therapy with 10 years of experience. He is also the owner of More 4 Life in St. Louis, MO. He specializes in helping people aged 40 and above deal with chronic, nagging a... more
priyam guptaMA (English) Experience: 3 yearsThe day Priyam learned that having strong opinions about everyday products can be a full-fledged writing career was the greatest day of her life. Partially driven by a passion for everything timeless,... more
srijita deMA (English & Literature), Certified Style & Image Consultant Experience: 2 yearsSrijita De is a makeup and fashion enthusiast with a passion for empowering readers through practical tips and tricks to present their best selves with confidence. Armed with a postgraduate degree in ... more
shatabdi bhattacharyaBSc Experience: 2.5 yearsShatabdi is an associate editor and an alumnus of Lady Brabourne College, Kolkata, where she honed her skills and developed a deep understanding of the world of literature and expression. She has work... more
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We don’t really appreciate our feet and ankles till we are forced to stay off our feet. Well, if you have recently undergone surgery or are in the recovery period, you must invest in the best shoes to wear after ankle surgery. These shoes are specially made to enable speedy recovery and make sure your feet remain well-cushioned, providing protection from shocks and impact. They are also lightweight and ergonomically designed for use with motion control. They provide adept arch support and have a firm grip.
The market is full of brands offering shoes for ankle support and post-surgery recovery. You may also need extra ankle support if you are involved in high-impact activities like those that involve jumping and lateral movement. To help you select the bestselling ones suited to your cause, I checked with Dr. Dave Candy, a physiotherapist, and have listed some of the best shoes to wear after ankle surgery along with their features. Some of these are quite stylish too, so you can go out feeling comfortable and stylish. So, go on and take a look through, now!
In This Article
11 Best Shoes To Wear After An Ankle Surgery With Reviews
1. Best Breathable:STQ Air Running Breathable Shoes
One of the best shoes to wear after ankle surgery, this one from STQ is incredibly lightweight and cushions your feet like a warm pillow. These shoes for ankle support are made with a 3D-fit print mesh upper. So, they are going to be super breathable and well-ventilated. Designed with shock-proof air cushioning on the footbed, it makes use of a rebound material to absorb shock in every step you take. With a comfortable EVA outsole, you can count on this cushioned shoe to carry you throughout the day or on long walks as the rubber outsole provides a firm grip to tread on any surface. With a padded collar around the ankles and a vertical pull tab for ease of wear and removal, this comfortable shoe offers semi-rigid arch support and comes with a heel cradle.
Pros
- 3D fit print upper mesh
- Shock-absorbent
- Padded collars
- Arch support
- Available in many colors
Cons
- May only be ideal for wider feet
Trivia
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
There are more than 19,482 Amazon reviews attesting to the quality of the product and endorsing its value.
2. Best Easy Airflow:New Balance Womens 847v4
The New Balance Womens 847v4 features a TRUFUSE midsole that combines two foams for durable cushioning. This shoe is designed with the roll bar stability post system with lace-up closure, which controls your rear-foot movement, and the mesh upper allows easy airflow, making it a breathable pair. It also features a TPU heel insert that stabilizes your feet, removes pressure from your ankles, and offers enhanced movement support with reduced ankle pain. Reviewers like its rubber outsole that provides optimum traction to your feet during outdoor activities.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Durable
- Provides all-day comfort
- Breathable
- Double cushioning
- Value for money
Cons
- Not true to size
3. Best Comfortable:Brooks Women’s Ghost 14 Neutral Running Shoe
The Brooks Women’s Ghost 14 Neutral Running Shoe features BioMoGo DNA and 100% DNA LOFT cushioning to complement your unique strides. The soft midsole and segmented crash pads deliver smooth transitions to your feet for optimum comfort and protection. The trail track rubber outsole provides stable traction on wet and dry surfaces, and the TPU toe cap protects the toes from rough and rocky surfaces. The stretchable 3D print upper comprises 30% recyclable material that is efficiently structured to adjust to your foot size. The cushioned shoe also contains a lace keeper that secures laces in place and prevents them from dropping on trail debris. Many reviewers loved this running shoe because it features a soft fabric lining and delivers medium and high arch support.
Pros
- Stretchable 3D print upper
- Lace keeper
- TPU toe cap
- Offers medium to high arch support
- Made with 30% recyclable material
- Value for money
- True to size
- Lightweight
- Comfortable
Cons
- Not suitable for wide feet
- Stiff tongue
4. Best For Improving Posture:EVENup Shoe Balancer/Leveler
The EVENup Shoe Balancer or Leveler is an orthotic walking boot ideal as postoperative footwear. These post-surgery shoes for ankle support reduce body strain while walking and improve your posture. This crow boot is tested by 1000s of consumers and can be worn on either foot. It comes in adjustable height that compensates for leg length changes and offers optimum stability to your foot to combat ankle pain. It helps reduce back, hip, and knee pain and prevents uneven gait.
Pros
- Adjustable height
- Can be worn on either foot
- Affordable
- Stabilizes the feet
- Durable
Cons
- Not true-to-size
- Flimsy straps
5. Best Stability:Asics Women’s Running Shoes
Asics’ running shoes need no introduction, and once you get your hands on this pair, these shoes after ankle surgery will be the only thing you need to heal your feet quickly. A synthetic meets mesh masterpiece, these shoes come with a reinforced rubber sole and are made with Space Trusstic technology, which helps reduce the weight in the sole while providing stability. But that’s not the only thing it’s known for as the rearfoot and forefoot gel technology cushioning system absorbs shock and makes walking in any terrain a piece of cake. For bounce, the shoe incorporates FlyteFoam midsole technology.
Pros
- Shock-absorbing technology
- Exceptional bounce
- Enhances stability
- Reduces weight of the sole
- FlyteFoam midsole technology
Cons
- Slightly expensive
6. Best Optimal Support:Nike Women’s Air Zoom Pegasus 36 Running Shoes
Nike loyalists would not even need any convincing and would have hit “Add to cart” without a second thought, however, if you’re not a fan yet and are making the big switch to Nike, here’s what you need to know about this pair. The 36 Pegusus comes with a synthetic sole and a smartly engineered upper mesh with targeted perforations for better ventilation and breathability with impact and shock absorption. It is also designed with a slim heel collar and tongue to shed off the bulk and is equipped with exposed Flywire cables for a snug fit. The full-length Zoom Air unit lends your feet a smooth feeling with every step and the sock liner adapts to and mimics the contours of your feet for optimal support and protection.
Pros
- Synthetic material sole
- Well-ventilated
- Slim heel collar
- Absorbs impact
- Available in many colors
Cons
- Slightly expensive
7. Best Orthotic Support: Gravity Defyer G-Defy Ion Athletic Shoes
While wearing heels after ankle surgery might not be the best idea, you sure can dress up your casual outfits with this sturdy and durable high-quality shoe. These breathable shoes for ankle surgery are a perfect amalgamation of fabric and synthetic, the shoes are designed with a breathable mesh upper for ventilation and flexibility. If you’re an in-between size person when it comes to shoes, you’ll be happy to note that the shoes offer extra toe room, which also helps improve blood circulation. Crafted with a front rolling forefoot design, it provides stability and the removable insoles help make way for custom orthotic support. “The shoes can also help compensate for ankle stiffness after a surgery by allowing you to roll through your step,” says Dr. Dave Candy, a board-certified specialist in orthopedic physical therapy.
Pros
- Breathable mesh upper
- Available in other colors
- Large platform for comfort
- Extra toe space
- Free CorrectiveFit orthotic insoles
Cons
- Expensive
Pro Tip8. Best Washable:Footfox Women’s Casual Walking Shoe
The Footfox Women’s Casual Walking Shoe is made of a one-piece knit upper containing more than 10,000 holes to keep your feet clean and dry. These comfortable shoes for ankle surgery are designed with non-slip cotton materials that do not fade after repeated washing. This shoe features an ultra-soft, slip-resistant rubber outsole that offers optimum cushioning to your feet and an elastic, breathable cotton insole with moisture-wicking properties to keep your feet cool. The rubber outsole prevents your feet from twisting and resists excessive abrasions. The breathable mesh upper delivers anti-fatigue support to your feet, making it ideal for running or jogging. Still unsure about it? Check out the several reviews that boast about this cushioned shoe.
Pros
- Breathable
- Lightweight
- Comfortable
- Slip-resistant
- Anti-twist
- Fade-resistant
- Stylish
- True-to-size
Cons
- Narrow shoe opening
9. Best Slipper-Style:Brace Direct Post Op Recovery Shoe
The Brace Direct Post-Op Recovery Shoe features a lightweight, shock-absorbing EVA sole that allows easy airflow. These supportive shoes for ankle surgery have square-toe open design that prevents your foot from bumping. This breathable shoe is designed with a rocker bottom sole that delivers arch support and relieves pain and pressure on your forefoot during the recovery process. It also features a non-skid tread that prevents your foot from slipping and stabilizes it. This shoe features three medical-grade, trimmable, adjustable strap systems that accommodate your foot in a secured fit. These slipper-style shoes for ankle surgery can be worn on either foot and are ideal for all-day usage. Wear this shoe and gain gradual relief from pain caused by bunions, hammer toes, and heel fractures.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Excellent shock absorption
- Breathable
- Slip-resistant
- Trimmable straps
- Non-irritating
- Can be worn on either foot
- Comfortable
Cons
- Does not fit well
10. Best For Daily Wear:BraceAbility Post-op Shoe
The BraceAbility Post-op Shoe is an orthopedic surgical footwear with a wide footbed and square-toe design that prevents your foot from rubbing against uneven terrain. These orthopedic shoes feature a soft, padded lining and a lightweight EVA foam insole that absorbs excess shock and prevents slippage. It also comes with a hard rocker sole and anti-skid traction tread that supports your arch, promotes a natural gait, and stabilizes your feet while walking. This shoe comes with medical-grade customizable straps that accommodate post-surgical bandaging and swelling. The semi-open style and the breathable material make this shoe suitable for all-day-long wear.
Pros
- Slip-resistant
- Absorbs excess shock
- Suitable for all-day-long wear
- Comfortable and custom fit
- Breathable
- Value for money
- Easy to put on
- Sturdy
Cons
- Sticky
- Not true to size
11. Best For Casual Wear:Orthofeet The Ultimate Walking Shoes For Women
The Orthofeet The Ultimate Walking Shoes For Women features adjustable arch boosters and multiple cushioning layers that offer pillow-like support to your feet and alleviate foot, knee, hip, and lower back pain during the recovery process. These orthopedic shoes for ankle surgery have ergonomic soles with a mid-rocker design that stabilizes your feet and improves your walking posture. Therefore, they are perfect to be worn as casual dress shoes. The insoles are removable, giving the wearer enough space for custom-made orthotics. This shoe features non-binding flexible uppers with foam padding that deliver optimum comfort to your feet. The shoe’s interior is seamless, making it suitable for sensitive skin. It has enough space to attach an arch booster to enhance arch support. The roomy toe box and extra depth design offer a non-binding fit and support natural movement.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Roomy toe box
- Offers a snug fit
- Seam-free fabric interior
- Easy to wear and remove
- Customizable
- Comfortable
Cons
None
Now that we’ve looked at some of the best shoes to wear after a broken ankle, let’s take a look at some things you should keep in mind before buying yourself one.
How To Choose The Best Shoes For Ankle Injury
- Say no to heels
Perhaps it goes without saying that the higher the heel, perhaps it may not be the closer to god, for in the long run, high heels can seriously affect your knees, joints, and ankles. High heels put a lot of pressure on the knees and even on the ankles as they are constantly trying to keep your body balanced on a tiny platform. The range of motion of the ankle is reduced following surgery or foot injury, and high heels should be completely avoided. Look for shoes and sneakers with as low a heel as possible to prevent ankle joint pain. Yes, some sneakers for ankle surgery recovery feature large platform heels. When purchasing these kinds of sneakers, ensure the platform weight is distributed evenly and how much cushioning it offers to your feet.
- High-top vs low-top
It may be counterintuitive but low-top sneakers are a better choice if you’re solely looking for shoes for broken ankle recovery or after ankle surgery. High-top shoes may restrict ankle movement, yes, but this may also render your ankles less flexible in the long run, making them more prone to accidents or injuries.
- Materials
One of the best things you can do for yourself is to invest in shoes with a breathable mesh upper. Not only does this allow for better ventilation and keep your feet comfortable, it also makes the shoes more flexible and stretchable. Check whether the shoes come with insoles or midsoles that provide ample cushioning for your footbed as this is important. A quick and easy way to gauge how flexible a shoe is to bend the shoes towards the laces. The easier it bends, the better the flexibility.
Infographic: Things To Consider While Buying The Best Shoes After Ankle Injury
You probably already know how challenging it can be to find comfortable shoes if you had ankle surgery. You may struggle to come across supportive, comfy shoes, which is why we are here to assist you. The below infographic walks you through the factors you should consider before selecting the best shoes. Scroll down and check it out. Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team
Ankle injuries are tough to manage, especially after ankle surgery. If you are recovering from such an injury, investing in the best shoes to wear can provide relief and proper support. All these shoes have been specially picked for the comfort they offer, along with their special features. The STQ Air Running Breathable Shoes are known for their reliable performance and support and suitable for any running activities. The Nike Women’s Air Zoom Pegasus 36 Running Shoes are made with advanced technology that offers comfortable cushioning and gives you a responsive running experience. Also, the Brooks Women’s Ghost 14 Neutral Running Shoes stand out for their neutral design and balanced cushioning, providing a smooth and stable journey for neutral runners. All the shoes listed above have well-cushioned soles that may hold a surgery leg in place to avoid unnecessary triggers. They are also quite stylish and comfortable to wear. These shoes from the trusted brand are lightweight, slip-resistant, and durable. However, some shoes may have fitting issues. Measure your feet size before choosing one. Consider factors like material, ergonomic design, low vs high-top, and heels before investing in these shoes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best shoes to wear after foot surgery?
The STQ’s Air running breathable shoes, the New Balance’s walking shoes for ankle surgery, and Gannou’s athletic running shoes mentioned in this article are some of the best shoes to wear after foot surgery and can help you with a speedy recovery.
Should I get a boot for good ankle support?
When looking for a boot with a good ankle support feature, it is best to consult your doctor.
Why should I wear a boot after ankle surgery?
A boot is a type of medical shoe often prescribed to those who have undergone ankle or foot surgery and is used in the healing process of broken bones, shin splints, or severe pain. It helps keep the foot stable, so that it can heal faster.
How long does it take to fully recover from ankle surgery?
Ankle surgery recovery typically takes about 6 weeks. However, the duration can be shorter or longer, depending on the type of surgery.
Why is ankle support important?
As the ankle takes the burden of supporting and keeping our whole body balanced throughout the day, it is important to invest in shoes with ample ankle support.
How long do you have to wear a walking boot after ankle surgery?
You’ll probably have to wear a casting boot for 6-10 weeks.
When can you put weight on the ankle after surgery?
You can resume weight bearing activities after two or three weeks for a minor operation. In case of major surgery, you might need to wait for at least eight weeks to put weight on the ankle.
Can you walk on a broken ankle with a boot?
Yes. Orthopedic boots protect a broken ankle from further damage and help you walk comfortably. It might not heal the area but can act as a protective shield. You may consult an orthopedic shoe specialist to find the right boot.
Why Trust StyleCraze?
The author of this article, Priyam Gupta, is a fashion enthusiast and has done extensive research and poured through many customers reviews online to carefully curate the list of the best shoes to wear after ankle surgery. These lightweight shoes are ergonomically and fashionably designed to enable recovery and ensure that the feet remain well-cushioned from shocks and impact.
