Choose the Best Ankle Braces on Amazon
Ankle injuries are a common but annoying injury, especially for athletes. When you find yourself recovering from an ankle sprain or strain or if you’re looking for ways to help prevent further injuries, an ankle brace may be the perfect solution. But how do you choose which one is right for you?
We’ve rounded up some of Amazon’s best ankle braces to help you find exactly what you need. These choices are based on their overall function, ease of use, and comfort.
Top Ankle Braces at a Glance
- Best Overall: Med Spec ASO Ankle Stabilizer
- Best Lace Up: McDavid Ankle Brace
- Best Budget Friendly: Candy Li Ankle Support
- Best Compression: Bodyprox Ankle Support Brace
- Best Activity Brace: Z Athletics Zenith Ankle Brace
- Best For Sports: Ultra Ankle Zoom Ankle Brace
- Best Rigid Brace: Cramer Active Ankle T2 Rigid Brace
How Does an Ankle Brace Work?
Ankle braces use a variety of mechanisms (hinges, compression, laces and straps) to provide external support to the ankle and minimize certain aggravating movements such as the ankle/foot moving inward when weight-bearing). Additionally, ankle braces can be a great way to increase proprioception, making the wearer more aware of their ankle joint in space and the way they’re moving.
Who Should Use an Ankle Brace?
Ankle braces are mostly used for two reasons; to aid in recovery from an ankle injury, such as a sprain or strain, or to help prevent further injury to the ankle.
Common conditions and injuries that may benefit from the use of an ankle brace include:
- Strains
- Sprains
- Tendonitis
- Plantar Fasciitis
- Acute or chronic ankle pain
Some activities that involve a lot of lateral movement and thus make you more prone to ankle injuries include:
- Volleyball
- Basketball
- Tennis
- Running
What are the Different Types of Ankle Braces?
All ankle braces are not created equal. There are four common types of ankle braces that each serve a different purpose or allow for different levels of support to suit a variety of needs. Read on to learn more about these four types of ankle braces:
Compression Braces
Compression braces tend to provide the least amount of support of all the ankle braces. They tend to be for those that require more support and compression than taping or a tensor bandage can provide.
Compression braces help with swelling, maintaining joint warmth and providing minimal support, which can be beneficial for things like arthritis, minor strains and sprains, plantar fasciitis, or pain.
Lace-up Braces
Lace-up braces provide mild to moderate support, with support being adjustable based on the tightness of laces and straps of the brace. These braces are a good middle ground for those with minor injuries or those that require preventative support during moderate exercise and activity.
Lace-up braces are lightweight and allow for full range of motion, meaning they’re a great choice for those recovering from minor sprains that need to wear a brace every day for a certain period of time, or can be used to prevent sprains and strains during certain activities like running, walking, etc.
Hinged Braces
Hinged braces are typically considered semi-rigid braces that provide moderate to maximum support. The U or L-shaped plastic hinges stabilize the sides of the ankle, allowing you to maintain range of motion while absorbing the stress associated with certain movements, like lateral movement, that typically cause or exacerbate injuries.
These braces are great for acute or moderate to severe injuries that require you to limit certain movements and minimize weight-bearing. It can also provide maximum support to help prevent injury in those that participate in sports such as volleyball, basketball, or hockey where there’s a high risk of ankle injury or reinjury.
Rigid Braces
Rigid braces are very similar to hinged braces except they limit more movement. In most cases, rigid braces are used for those with injuries that require maximum support and minimizing movements in order to heal. They can also be beneficial for certain types of sports in those prone to an ankle injury.
These braces are made from sturdy materials like plastic that support the sides of the ankle and restrict any extreme movement of the ankle. Depending on the brace, you still may maintain range of motion in many parts of the ankle and foot.
How to Choose the Right Ankle Brace for You
With so many types of ankle braces, how do you decide which one is right for you? First and foremost, your doctor, physiotherapist, or other specialist is always the best choice for making decisions associated with your health. They can help you pick the right brace for your specific needs, especially when an injury is involved.
With that aside, there are some things to consider when you’re looking for an ankle brace:
What Type of Injury Do You Have?
The type of ankle brace that you need will depend on the type of injury you have or whether you’re trying to prevent reinjury.
For minor complaints and injuries such as minor sprains, arthritis pain, swelling, or just the need for a little additional support – compression braces are a great option.
Suppose you’re looking to provide maximum support to your ankle, due to a more severe injury or participation in sports. In that case, you may want to consider a rigid or hinged brace – something that limits certain movements that can worsen your injury or cause one.
A great middle-of-the-pack option that can help with things like strains, sprains, plantar fasciitis, chronic pain and help prevent injury in those with a history of ankle injury or instability is a lace-up brace.
What Size Do You Need?
Sizing is extremely important when it comes to braces. You have to ensure that your brace fits perfectly, as a brace that’s too small or too large can end up causing additional issues to your ankles or other parts of the body, such as your knees.
Sizing will vary from brace to brace, so always be sure to look at the sizing chart and correctly measure your foot and ankle according to their chart to determine what size is best for you. If you receive a brace and it still doesn’t fit perfectly, don’t be tempted to keep it – send it back and try another size or brace until you find the right fit.
Quality of Material
Quality of material is important when it comes to a brace, as it directly relates to strength and durability – two things that are important for something that is being used frequently to provide support. Lower quality materials will wear out quickly and it can be harder to get the right tightness from the straps.
User Reviews
As with anything, reading the reviews is never a bad idea. When you’re looking for something like an ankle brace, especially, seeing what other people have to say about sizing, quality, durability, etc., can save you lots of time and money trying out and returning products looking for the right fit.
Especially when it comes to sizing, reviews can be incredibly helpful for navigating the sizing charts and deciding whether or not you need to size up or down.
Ease of Use
If you’re suffering from an injury or need to get in uniform for a tournament quickly, the last thing you want to worry about is messing around with your ankle brace trying to get it on properly. Ease of use is incredibly important, so look for a brace that looks straightforward and provides detailed instructions on how to properly secure it.
The Best Ankle Braces on Amazon
If you’re looking for an ankle brace, we’ve done the leg work for you – here are some of the best ankle braces available on Amazon right now:
Med Spec ASO Ankle Stabilizer
Best Overall
The Med Spec ASO Ankle Stabilizer is great for supporting your ankle after injury. With a lace-up design, adjustable straps and cuff closure, there are multiple ways to customize the support of the brace for your needs.
- Type of Brace: Lace-up
- Price Range: $20 – 55
- Warranty: 30 days free returns
- Good For: Ankle injuries
The highly durable material makes it great for everyday wear and the low-profile design means it will fit in most shoes.
Pros
- Stabilizing straps for adjustable support and tightness
- Cuff closer for enhanced support
- Low profile design fits in most shoes
- It fits left and right feet
- Highly durable fabric
Cons
- May not be supportive enough for ankle instability issues
McDavid Ankle Brace
Best Lace Up Brace
The McDavid Ankle Brace is designed to help support the ankle during recovery and help prevent further injury.
- Type of Brace: Lace-Up
- Price Range: $15 – 60
- Warranty: 30 days free returns
- Good For: Sprains, strains, sports
Highly adjustable support and fit, with comfort padding, make it a great choice for everyday wear or athletic activity.
Pros
- Prevents and aids in the recovery of common ankle injuries
- Breathable, ventilated design
- Adjustable support without removing laces
- Comfortable padding.
- Fits left or right foot
Cons
- It can be tight around arches in those with high arches or wide feet
- May not be comfortable for high-intensity activity
Candy Li Ankle Support
Best Budget Friendly
The Candy Li Ankle Support is a low-profile, non-slip compression brace that’s easy to wear all day.
- Type of Brace: Compression
- Price Range: $10 – 15
- Warranty: 30 days free returns
- Good For: Everyday use
For those looking for lighter support or mostly compression support, this may be the brace for you.
Pros
- Adjustable support
- Non-slip silicone design
- Comfortable, soft, breathable material
- Fit both left and right feet
- Available in multiple colors
- It fits easily in shoes
Cons
- Not to be used by those with silicone or latex allergy
- It may be difficult to get tight enough or enough support
Bodyprox Ankle Support Brace
Best Compression
For those looking for a semi-rigid brace that allows for the most customized support, the Bodyprox Ankle Support Brace is a great option.
- Type of Brace: Compression Wrap
- Price Range:
- Warranty: 30 days free returns
- Good For: All activities, ankle injuries, plantar fasciitis
Adjust the compression and support by controlling the tightness of the wrap. The low-profile design and breathable material make it great for everyday use.
Pros
- Durable, lightweight, breathable material
- Compression design helps protect and prevent without compromising range of motion
- Highly adjustable support
- Easy to fit
Cons
- Only one size
- It may be difficult to fit in some footwear
Z Athletics Zenith Ankle Brace
Best Activity Brace
The Z Athletics Zenith Ankle Brace is designed to help with recovery as well as prevent further injury.
- Type of Brace: Lace-up
- Price Range: $30 – 40
- Warranty: 30-day free returns
- Good For: All activities, including sports
With adjustable support, it’s great for all activities – from sports to walking, hiking, or running. Comfortable enough to wear all day.
Pros
- Breathable, lightweight fabric
- It doesn’t impede the ability to walk or run
- Adjustable level of support
- It fits both left and right foot
Cons
- May not fit into smaller footwear
- Sizing can be difficult to get right
Ultra Ankle Zoom Ankle Brace
Best For Sports
The Ultra Ankle Zoom Ankle Brace is a hinged, rigid brace made for those who play sports.
- Type of Brace: Hinged
- Price Range: $55 – 65
- Warranty: 30 days free returns
- Good For: Sports, ankle sprains, strains and instability
The hinged design allows for support while still maintaining a full range of motion, including unaffected vertical jumping.
Pros
- Hinged design allows for a full range of motion
- Quick & easy to put on
- Great for sports like volleyball, basketball, etc.
- Comfortable
Cons
- It comes as single braces (not a pair)
- May not fit in certain footwear
Cramer Active Ankle T2 Rigid Brace
Best Rigid Brace
The Cramer Active Ankle T2 Rigid Brace is designed to support those looking to protect their ankles during sports like volleyball, basketball, etc.
- Type of Brace: Rigid
- Price Range: $25 – 60
- Warranty: 30 days free returns
- Good for: Sports like volleyball, basketball, etc.
A rigid brace offers maximum support for those looking to protect a previously injured ankle or often perform actions that are at a higher risk for ankle rolls and other injuries.
Pros
- Quick-fit with adjustable strap for low or high topped shoes
- It fits both left and right ankle
- Bilateral hinges allow for a full range of motion
- Lightweight and low profile
- Molded padding for comfort
Cons
- It may be difficult to fit in certain shoes
- Can be uncomfortable
- It comes as single braces (not a pair)
FAQ
Answer: No, ankle braces do not strengthen your ankles. In fact, overuse of ankle supports can actually result in weakened ankles. When wearing a brace, your ankle is supported enough to no longer have to do a lot of the work. It typically needs to do this to maintain balance and stability, so over time, if those muscles are not being used, your ankle strength will decrease.
It’s recommended that you only wear your brace for specific circumstances such as during a sport or for as little time as is necessary to aid in recovery from an injury.
Answer: It’s always best to consult your doctor about when and how much you should be wearing your ankle brace. In most cases, ankle braces can be worn all day, but it is recommended that you give your ankle a break when you are not doing anything that may aggravate the injury.
Many people opt to wear the brace only during certain activities such as sports, walking, or movements they find challenging during recovery.
Answer: Ankle braces are to be worn over your sock. Socks serve to protect your skin from chafing, helping to keep your skin dry and aiding in the comfort of the brace.
Final Say
Ankle braces can be an important part of injury recovery and preventing injury, but trying to find the right one can be tough. To help you find the right fit for your needs, you should consider whether you’re using it for an injury or prevention, how much support you need, sizing and quality to make the best choice.
If you’re looking for a great overall brace for a variety of concerns, from an ankle sprain to prevention, the Med Spec ASO Ankle Stabilizer is a great all-around pick. If you liked this article, be sure to comment down below! And for more helpful tips, check out our guide to the best wrist brace for tendonitis!
To learn about more ways to support your body, check the links below: