Foot & Ankle Braces and Supports

Shop walking boots, ankle braces, post op shoes, AFO splints and night splints in multiple sizes and support levels. We ship across the USA.

Shop Foot and Ankle Supports by Type

Foot and Ankle Support Guide

Foot and ankle supports range from flexible sleeves to rigid walking boots. Use this guide to compare designs, and follow your doctor's or podiatrist's recommendation.

Designed for Support type Design
Foot or ankle fracture Tall or short walking boot Rigid shell with straps; the tall boot covers more of the lower leg
After foot or toe surgery Post op shoe Open-toe design with a stiff flat sole that fits over bandages
Keeping weight off the front of the foot Heel wedge or offloading post op shoe Sole shaped to shift weight toward the heel
Ankle sprain Ankle air splint Air-filled side panels with a hard outer shell
Weak or unstable ankle Laced ankle brace Lace-up closure for a snug, adjustable fit
Everyday ankle support Ankle brace or ankle sleeve with straps Flexible, low-profile design that fits in most shoes
Foot drop AFO leaf spring splint Lightweight plastic brace worn inside the shoe
Plantar fasciitis (night use) Hard or dorsal night splint Holds the foot in a flexed position during sleep
Leg length difference Shoe lift balancer Add-on sole that raises one shoe
Cold or warm therapy Ankle ice wrap or compression ice wrap Reusable gel pack with adjustable strap

How to Choose a Foot or Ankle Brace

  • Support level: sleeves and soft braces are light, laced braces and air splints are moderate, and walking boots are firm.
  • Tall or short boot: tall boots cover more of the lower leg; short boots are lower profile. Your doctor can advise which you need.
  • Walking boot or post op shoe: walking boots cover the foot and ankle, while post op shoes cover only the foot.
  • Fit in shoes: AFOs and low-profile ankle braces are designed to be worn inside a shoe.
  • Size: check the sizing chart on each product page. Walking boots and post op shoes are usually sized by shoe size.

Recovery and Mobility Aids

If your doctor says to keep weight off your foot, see our knee scooter rental and canes and crutches. For compression socks and sleeves, visit Compression Wear.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between a tall and short walking boot?

A tall walking boot extends higher up the lower leg, while a short walking boot sits lower on the ankle. Doctors choose between them based on the type and location of the injury.

What is the difference between a walking boot and a post op shoe?

A walking boot covers the foot, ankle and lower leg with a rigid shell. A post op shoe covers only the foot and has a stiff, flat sole that fits over bandages after foot or toe surgery.

Can I sleep in a walking boot?

Some people are told to wear their walking boot at night, and others are allowed to remove it. Follow your doctor's instructions for your injury.

What is an AFO brace?

An AFO (ankle foot orthosis) is a lightweight brace worn inside the shoe that holds the foot and ankle in position. A leaf spring AFO is a common style used for foot drop.

What is a night splint used for?

A night splint holds the foot in a gently flexed position while you sleep. It is commonly used by people with plantar fasciitis or heel pain.

What is the difference between an ankle brace and an ankle air splint?

An ankle brace is usually soft or laced and flexible. An ankle air splint has a hard outer shell with air-filled pads for firmer side-to-side support.

What is a shoe lift balancer?

A shoe lift balancer, also called a shoe leveler, attaches to the bottom of one shoe to raise it. It is often worn on the opposite foot when using a walking boot, so both legs are at a similar height.

How do I find the right size?

Walking boots and post op shoes are usually sized by shoe size. Ankle braces and splints may use shoe size or ankle measurement. Check the sizing chart on each product page, or call us for help.