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.
Table of Contents
Best Brace for Sprained Ankle Top Picks at a Glance
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- Shock Doctor Compression Knit Ankle Sleeve with Gel Support
- Active Ankle T2 Ankle Brace, Rigid Ankle Stabilizer & Support
- BioSkin Trilok – Foot and Ankle Support Brace
- Zenith Ankle Brace, Lace Up Adjustable Straps
- Aircast AirSport Ankle Support Brace – Left Foot
Don’t have time? Here is a quick comparison of our favorites!
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
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.
| Benefits | Drawbacks |
|---|---|
| Breathable Material | Less support for severe ankle sprain |
| Lightweight Design | Some 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.
- Targeted compression around the ankle^Integrated gel inlays for additional targeted compression and support^Engineered shape for comfort
Related: Best Ankle Brace to Prevent Rolling
#2 BUDGET CHOICE: Active Ankle T2 Ankle Brace, Rigid Ankle Stabilizer & Support
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.
| Benefits | Drawbacks |
|---|---|
| Comfortable EVA foam | Others find it bulky |
| High Quality Hinged Design | Somewhat 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.
- T2 Rigid Ankle Braces offer an exceptional level of protection with a quick-fit single strap that is adjustable for both low-top and high-top shoes
- Fits left or right foot, and offers maximum performance and protection for sports like volleyball, basketball and football
- Sleek, less-bulky brace features feather-light, custom molded EVA padding, which hugs every contour of the ankle and is custom molded for fit and comfort
- Anatomical bilateral hinge allows full foot range of motion up and down, which makes it suitable for sprains and strains
- Take the time to review the sizing and fitting chart images and videos on this product page to ensure proper fit and performance
Check out this video on how to put on an ankle brace correctly:
#3 SAFETY CHOICE: BioSkin Trilok – Foot and Ankle Support 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.
| Benefits | Drawbacks |
|---|---|
| Dual Compression Design | Fairly 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.
- INSTANT PAIN RELIEF KIT - Say goodbye to plantar fasciitis, PTTD, chronic, and acute ankle pain with the TriLok Ankle Brace. Featuring a unique 3-component design, this brace offers precise arch support and accelerates the healing of strained tendons and ligaments.
- PROPER STABILIZATION PREVENTS INJURIES - Protect yourself from sprained ankles and other common injuries in trail running, volleyball, soccer, basketball, baseball, or football with this advanced ankle stabilizer.
- INCREASED CIRCULATION FOR FASTER RECOVERY - Reduce swelling in your foot and ankle after an injury with the soft ankle compression sleeve, which promotes faster shorter recovery times. Use as a plantar fasciitis relief night splint to alleviate pain and discomfort while you sleep.
- ALL-DAY COMFORT - Our hypoallergenic, breathable, and lightweight materials won't cause irritations or rashes and ensure maximum comfort. Our supportive ankle braces for men and women fit comfortably in most shoes and sandals.
- A TRUSTED BRAND - Over 40 professional teams trust BioSkin to keep their athletes functioning at the highest possible level. Chiropractor-recommended to improve ankle support and pain relief. We stand behind our product with a 30-day money-back guarantee.
#4 Zenith Ankle Brace, Lace Up Adjustable Straps
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.
| Benefits | Drawbacks |
|---|---|
| Comfortable | Easily 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.
- ✅ An ankle brace that moves with you: Invest in an ankle support that will last. Zenith has developed a brace with the end user in mind. Made from the highest quality nylon and neoprene, you will get the best possible support and breathability. Double stitched seams also mean you will not have to keep spending your money on new braces every month!
- ✅ Ankle pain, be gone: Proven to reduce or eliminate ankle pain caused by sprains, tendonitis and other acute injuries. Our brace is designed to be used for healing and prevention of sports related injuries as well as minor accidents. The side straps contour your ankle to immobilize the foot without restricting your ability to walk or run.
- ✅ Stay on your feet: We specifically made this brace to perform well in ANY activity, including: volleyball, basketball, hiking, wrestling, running, soccer etc. Keep your peak performance and have peace of mind knowing your ankle will not be at risk of injury. Unlike an ankle sleeve, our brace can be adjusted in order to customize the level of support you are after. The lace-up front and straps give you the freedom to adjust tightness.
- ✅ Accurate fit: Having the right size brace is important to make sure the device functions properly, keeps your ankle secure and does not move excessively.
#5 Aircast AirSport Ankle Support Brace – Left Foot
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.
| Benefits | Drawbacks |
|---|---|
| Foam-filled Aircell Technology | Some 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.
- Intended for active individuals or athletes recovering from Grade I or II ankle sprains, or those who are looking to prevent ankle sprains
- Provides moderate support and compression utilizing air cell technology, and incorporates a semi-rigid encased shell which delivers stability and comfort.The entire AirSport can be hand washed in lukewarm water with mild soap and air dried.
- Additional compression and stabilization is provided by an ATF (anterior talofibular) cross strap and integral forefoot and shin wraps.Foam-filled Aircell technology
- Offers support and protection from both inversion and eversion
- Universal design allows the Aircast AirSport Ankle Support Brace to be used by both men and women
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
- Targeted compression around the ankle^Integrated gel inlays for additional targeted compression and support^Engineered shape for comfort
For you, what is the best brace for a sprained ankle? Please share your top pick below!
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