How to Tie Shoes for Ankle Support

Weak ankles that turn at the tiniest pebble or uneven sidewalk are the bane of hikers, walkers and runners. No matter how you tie low-top shoes, you will receive little to no ankle support. High-top shoes and boots with stiff sides, however, hug your ankles and limit the occasional sprains and strains. Tying shoes for ankle support is probably not much different than what you are already doing, but adding two easy steps can help your shoe support you.

Instructions

  1. Choosing the Shoe

    • 1
      Look for high-top shoes, which lend ankle support.

      Choose shoes that extend above your ankle bone.

    • 2

      Make sure the shoes have stiff sides to help add support while walking, running or hiking.

    • 3

      Test the shoes in the store before buying them. Be sure the fit is correct before committing to the shoe.

    Lacing Up

    • 4
      Opening the laces wide makes room inside your shoe for maneuvering your foot.

      Open the laces really wide on your boot or high-top shoe.

    • 5

      Slide your foot into the boot or high-top shoe and slide your heel as far back into the heel cup as you can.

    • 6
      The actual lacing of the shoe is no different from traditional lacing.

      Tie the laces in the traditional manner, with one exception. Instead of encircling the first loop just once, go around twice before finishing the bow.