...
Seniors Mobility Aids

Top 5 Braces for Sprained Ankle (Buying Guide)

Written by Dayna C
Last Updated :

Are you looking for the best brace for sprained ankle?

A sprained ankle is one of the most aggravating ankle injuries and affects your range of motion.

Fortunately, here you’ll find details about how to benefit yourself and others by supportive braces and learn about the best ankle brace for swollen ankles.

Let’s start with a quick look at our top picks, then keep reading for all the glorious details.

Best Brace for Sprained Ankle Top Picks at a Glance

If you see the value in these products and choose to purchase via my referral links, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Don’t have time? Here is a quick comparison of our favorites!

[amazon table=”8577″]

5 Best Brace for Sprained Ankle: Review Guide

To help you find the best brace for a sprained ankle, we have selected 5 of the most popular supportive ankle braces to provide a level of protection and help you along your road to recovery.

The following are selected products on Amazon! Let’s get into it!

#1 TOP CHOICE: Shock Doctor Compression Knit Ankle Sleeve with Gel Support

[amazon fields=”B00Q9M6PKW” value=”thumb” image=”1″ image_size=”large” image_alt=”Shock Doctor Compression Knit Ankle Sleeve with Gel Support”]

The Shock Doctor ankle brace is designed for patients with late stages of recovery from ankle sprains to provide stability and minimal support.

It provides greater versatility and has straps that can be adjusted to fit in almost any style of work or high-top athletic shoes.

Physical Attributes

Shock Doctor compression sleeve features a targeted deal of compression and support while providing an ultra-comfortable and breathable material.

This product is designed to provide moderate pain relief and recuperation, with anatomical knit construction, contoured compression zones, and gel support.

They have used advanced knitting techniques to develop a level of compression zones that target muscle support, rehabilitation, and pain relief while also being quite pleasant for all-day usage.

Shock Doctor’s Compression Knit is made to be breathable, supportive, and comfortable while also being elastic enough to allow movement. 

Measurements and Size Options

Shock Doctor Compression Knit Ankle Sleeve with Gel Support has a wide range of sizes available, from adult small to extra large. ‎ The product dimensions are 7 x 5 x 1 inches and weigh about 1.6 ounces.

BenefitsDrawbacks
Breathable MaterialLess support for severe ankle sprain
Lightweight DesignSome found it to be too tight
High-Elastic Fabric
Ankle Compression Sleeve
Provide Ankle Stability and Muscle Strength

How it Compares to Others

This compression ankle brace specifically targets ankle muscles and allows faster recovery than other products.

Expert Tips

This product is best for moderate support only. This can be used to help you with your normal activities like walking.

[amazon box=”B00Q9M6PKW”]

Related: Best Ankle Brace to Prevent Rolling

#2 BUDGET CHOICE: Active Ankle T2 Ankle Brace, Rigid Ankle Stabilizer & Support

[amazon fields=”B0000E2E9T” value=”thumb” image=”1″ image_size=”large” image_alt=”Active Ankle T2 Ankle Brace”]

The specialists at Active Ankle acknowledge that every athlete’s needs are varied. A different type of ankle brace based on players. Active Ankle has created a full line of ankle braces solutions. 

Physical Attributes

T2 Rigid Ankle Braces offer an unparalleled level of protection. The sleek, softer brace uses lightweight, custom-molded EVA foam that conforms to every contour of the ankle.

Anatomical bilateral design hinge provides a broad range of motion in which ankle pain and future injuries are less likely to occur.

Measurements and Size Options

T2 Active Ankle provides different size options from small to extra large. You can refer to their user guide and size chart to get accurate sizing. 

BenefitsDrawbacks
Comfortable EVA foamOthers find it bulky
High Quality Hinged DesignSomewhat pricy
Ankle Brace Fits for All Users

How it Compares to Others

It is a breathable, moisture-wicking fabric and bilateral brace that allows you to move in lateral motion especially if you are on the game.

Expert Tips

T2 Active Ankle products are built especially for players and provide rigid protection. It can be uncomfortable for everyday activities.

[amazon box=”B0000E2E9T”]

Check out this video on how to put on an ankle brace correctly:

#3 SAFETY CHOICE: BioSkin Trilok – Foot and Ankle Support Brace

[amazon fields=”B006XK3GAM” value=”thumb” image=”4″ image_size=”large” image_alt=” BioSkin Trilok Ankle Brace”]

BioSkin TriLok is your safest choice. Trilok has innovative underfoot support to stabilize ankle ligaments and muscles.

Physical Attributes

Trilok is built from breathable, hypoallergenic materials. The Trilok enables both active and passive mobility, and hence is suitable for athletes, and in some cases individuals who are rehabilitating.

Measurements and Size Options

BioSkin TriLok sizing is from extra small to extra large. 

BenefitsDrawbacks
Dual Compression DesignFairly expensive compared to others
5 sizes, so it’s easier to find the right fit

How it Compares to Others

 TriLok’s uses ultima material to create a compressive base sleeve.

Expert Tips

Using the TriLok’s compressive base sleeve helps to improve recovery time.

[amazon box=”B006XK3GAM”]

#4 Zenith Ankle Brace, Lace Up Adjustable Straps

[amazon fields=”B01LZ2KEDB” value=”thumb” image=”2″ image_size=”large” image_alt=” Zenith Ankle Brace”]

Zenith brace is meant to be used for pain and injuries. It can also help to speed up the healing process.

Physical Attributes

Nylon and neoprene fabric provides great support and breathability.

Measurements and Size Options

Improved with better sizing from small to large.

BenefitsDrawbacks
ComfortableEasily loosens over time
Adjustable Ankle Brace

How it Compares to Others

It is a great alternative for high-priced brands and provides almost the same comfortability.

Expert Tips

It has less support for severe pain but can aid minor injuries.

[amazon box=”B01LZ2KEDB”]

#5 Aircast AirSport Ankle Support Brace – Left Foot

[amazon fields=”B00P3D4LLI” value=”thumb” image=”3″ image_size=”large” image_alt=”Aircast AirSport Ankle Support Brace, Left Foot, Large
“]

This AirCast Airsport Ankle Brace is intended specifically for those with chronic conditions.

Physical Attributes

Air cast includes air cell technology for additional support and compression, as well as a semi-rigid enclosed shell for enhanced stability and comfort.

Measurements and Size Options

Aircast ankle braces have a wide range of sizes, from XS to XL.

BenefitsDrawbacks
Foam-filled Aircell TechnologySome find the sizing small
Ideal for athletes and other active people

How it Compares to Others

While the other picks on this list are acceptable for active people, this one was specifically designed for athletes and runners.

Expert Tips

It’s suitable for those with Grade I or II ankle sprains who are in the process of recovering.

[amazon box=”B00P3D4LLI”]

Get a comprehensive understanding of the benefits and drawbacks of using ankle braces in volleyball in our informative article ‘Pros and Cons of Ankle Braces for Volleyball‘!

Buyer’s Guide: Best Brace for Sprained Ankle

We lose muscle mass, metabolism slows, and bone density declines with increasing age. This is why some people need extra support to allow better movement.

Who Should Wear Ankle Braces?

Maybe you’re asking yourself “Should I wear a brace for a sprained ankle?”

Well, braces are ideal for those who need to restrict ankle movement after an injury or ankle support for individuals with ankle weakness.

Benefits of Wearing Braces

  • Extra Stability
  • Pain Reduction
  • Prevent Future Ankle Injuries
  • Speed Up Recovery

What Features Should I Look for?

Look for ankle braces that suit your needs the most, whether you are an active or passive person. Choose comfortability with high-quality material including fabric, weight, and effectiveness.

Check out this video for some tips when sleeping with an ankle brace:

FAQs

Is an ankle brace good for a sprained ankle?

Yes. Wearing an ankle brace for at least 2 weeks can aid sprained ankle including swelling and pain.

Can you walk on a sprained ankle with a brace?

No. Weight-bearing is not recommended until a sprain has healed. Walking or putting weight on the injured area too soon can impede healing.

Final Recommendation

[amazon box=”B00Q9M6PKW”]

little girl's sprained ankle

For you, what is the best brace for a sprained ankle? Please share your top pick below!

About Author

Dayna C
Dayna has an incredible passion for helping others and a background as an in-home caregiver for the elderly. She left the field temporarily three years ago to stay at home with her twins, but found that she really missed working with senior citizens. She launched LoAids as a way to help not just her own loved ones and former clients, but ALL seniors live life to the fullest in their golden years.  Follow her on LINKEDIN and TWITTER. Read her LATEST POSTS. Learn more about her HERE.

Leave a Comment