Looking for the best rugby boots for ankle support? In this article, I review a couple of my favourites, including boots I’ve worn myself during several seasons as an amateur rugby player.
There are several rugby boots on the market that are specifically designed to provide extra support for the ankles, including high-top boots and those with extra ankle-hugging fabric. While they won’t prevent injuries, they can help stabilise your ankle to a degree.
Best Rugby Boots for Ankle Support in 2026
I suffered with mild ankle pain for many years during my time as an amateur rugby player. Unfortunately, injuries are part of the game and there’s only so much a pair of boots can do to prevent injuries. But if you’re looking for the right rugby boots to support your feet and ankles, some of my top picks might be of interest to you.
Best Rugby Boots For Ankle Support, At A Glance:
- Canterbury Unisex Stampede Pro Team Soft Ground Rugby Boots
- Adidas Malice Control (Sg)
- Nike Legend 10 Academy (SG)
- Under Armour Mens Clone Magnetico Pro (FG)
- Optimum Aztec 6 Stud Boots (Juniors)
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Note: This article contains some affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase through my links. You will incur no additional cost. All costs and information are correct at the time of publishing and I will occasionally edit for freshness and accuracy. Always check the retailer for more information.
Canterbury Unisex Stampede Pro Team SG Rugby Boots
- Amazon Rating: 4.4/5
- Price (RRP): £95.00
The Canterbury Unisex Stampede Pro Team Soft Ground Rugby Boots are my top picks for the best rugby boots for those who require ankle support. They offer an additional sleeve for added stability, and are made with solid materials which should offer great durability.
I wore these for two seasons and, while I didn’t experience any injuries necessarily, they felt comfortable around my ankle and upper foot due to the extra fabric. Maybe it’s psychological, I’m not sure, but they are definitely a solid option. You can also check the customer reviews for yourself, where people are calling out the ankle hugging material.
Adidas Malice Control (SG)
- Amazon Rating: 4.3/5
- Price (RRP): £109.98
No fabric ankle-hugging material here, but these boots are designed with a high ankle collar that provides extra support and stability for the ankles — you see that high lip at the back of the boot? They’re also lightweight and durable, which makes them ideal for both loose forwards and backs. I wore these as a scrum half and would certainly recommend, not only for their robust design but also for the timeless, iconic Adidas design. 10/10 would recommend!
Nike Legend 10 Academy (SG)
- Amazon Rating: N/A
- Price (RRP): £79.99
Another pair of rugby boots with a design that hugs the rear of the foot with a high lip hugging the Achilles. I’m a fan of these and have worn similar boots in the last, in the Tiempo, and can vouch for their durability. I must say these are a favourite of mine. Check out my Nike Tiempo review for more info about Nike rugby boots.
Under Armour Clone Magnetico Pro (FG)
- Amazon Rating: 3/5
- Price (RRP): £59.98
Now I’m not necessarily a fan of firm ground boots – I play in rain the majority of the season after all – but they’re worth considering if you’re playing on firmer grounds. They might not be ankle support specialists, but the high lip at the back of the heel and firm layer around the ankle should help support your foot enough. Note that these are not the best for wide feet, so do keep that in mind.
Optimum Aztec 6 Stud Boots
- Amazon Rating: 4/5
- Price (RRP): £49.99
One for the younger junior players! The sleek design is not just for show, but you can see just how supportive these boots are for ankles and heels. Now I’ve not tried these myself, of course, but they are available in multiple sizes for juniors and seniors, but availability varies from time to time.
So, Are Ankle Injuries Common in Rugby?
Ankle injuries are relatively common in rugby, as the sport involves a lot of direction changing, pivoting, and contact, all of which can put stress on the ankles. Some of the most common ankle injuries in rugby include sprains, strains, and fractures — while you can never go into a game thinking about this, it’s not a bad idea to put some preventatives in place by wearing a supportive pair of boots.
To prevent ankle injuries, it is important to warm up properly before playing, to wear appropriate gear and to use proper technique. You should, of course, seek medical attention if you suspect you have an ankle injury and follow a proper rehabilitation program to ensure a full recovery.
What Are High Cut Rugby Boots for Ankle Support?
High cut rugby boots, also known as high-top rugby boots, are boots that have a higher ankle collar than most other rugby boots. The ankle collar is designed to provide extra support and stability for the ankles, which can help to prevent injuries.
The high cut design of these boots is intended to provide a secure and snug fit around the ankle, which can help to keep the foot and ankle in place during play. This can help to reduce the risk of rolling or twisting the ankle, which can be particularly beneficial for players who are prone to ankle injuries or who play on surfaces that are uneven or slippery.
As a scrum half, I’ll be the first to say that high cut boots may not be suitable for all players, as they can be less flexible, more bulky and heavier than traditional low cut boots. Additionally, they may be less comfortable to play in, particularly if players are not used to this type of boot. Find what works for you and go with it.
How to Choose the Best Ankle-Supporting Rugby Boots for You
Ultimately, the best rugby boots for ankle support will depend on the individual, your preferred fit and feel.
While I’ve provided some of my favourite options, you can always shop around on online platforms such as Pro Direct Rugby, Lovell and Amazon, as well as in-store at places like Sports Direct and specialist rugby shops.
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