McDavid’s lace up ankle brace takes our title of the best ankle brace for basketball and other high-impact sports due to its combination of comfort and support. It’s ideal for minimizing the strain of running, jumping, and sudden directional changes fast-paced games. The compression of McDavid’s brace also alleviates muscles fatigue and conditions such as plantar fasciitis. Keep reading for more information on this superb ankle support!
Best Choice - Ankle Support Brace by McDavid
The combination of a lace-up design and neoprene wrap stabilizer, makes a perfect choice for demanding sports like basketball.
Buy on AmazonFrom bad landings to dodging and jumping, the maneuvers of basketball can take their toll on your ankles. Luckily, wearing an ankle brace during a game can protect you from accidental sprains and strains. An ankle brace can also accelerate the recovery process if you are already suffering from an injury. Take a look at our list of the best ankle braces for basketball and take the mystery out of buying a quality product.
Our Top Picks
Best Choice
McDavid
Ankle Support Brace
Top Performance
BIOSKIN
Trilok Ankle Brace
Can’t Count it Out
Vive
Lace Up Ankle Brace
The Nine Best Ankle Braces for Basketball
| Product | Brand | Sizing | Men or Women | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ankle Support Brace | McDavid | XS - XL | Men and Women |  |
| Trilok Ankle Brace | BioSkin | S - L | Men and Women | |
| Lace Up Ankle Brace | Vive | S - L | Men and Women | |
| ASO Ankle Stabilizer | Med Spec | XS - 2XL | Men and Women | |
| Ankle Brace | SENTEQ | S - 3XL | Men and Women | |
| T2 Ankle Brace | Active Ankle | S - L | Men and Women | |
| Lace Up Ankle Support | McDavid | XS - XL | Men and Women | |
| Ankle Brace Support Stabilizer | Zamst | S - XL | Men and Women | |
| Compression Ankle Brace | Shock Doctor | XS - XL | Men and Women | |
Best Choice: Ankle Support Brace by McDavid
Buy on AmazonSuitable for either the left or right foot, this ankle brace fits snugly around the ankle to provide support during basketball games, workouts, and daily activities. It features laces, a figure six strap, and a top strap for a customized fit. Plus, the breathable tongue and padded lining ensure that you stay comfortable, no matter the activity.
Main Features
- Ventilated tongue
- Comfortable padded lining
- Figure 6 straps
- Laces for a customized fit
- Top strap keeps the brace in place
Pros:
- Adjustable without unlacing
- Comes in 5 sizes
- Can be worn on either foot
- Available in three colors
Cons:
- Some users have reported that the sizes run small
- Not as comfortable as some other ankle braces
Top Performance: Trilok Ankle Brace by BIOSKIN
Manufactured in the US, this lace up ankle brace is made from ballistic nylon for durability and strength. The brace features laces, figure-eight stabilizing straps, a contoured tongue, and an elastic cuff closure to keep it securely in place. Plus, it is available in eight sizes and fits inside most shoe types.
Main Features
- Microfleece lining
- Triple strap system for added support
- Tough Velcro straps
- Slim design
- Made from durable lycra
Pros:
- Fits in most shoe types
- Available in 5 sizes
- Can be worn on either foot
- Recommended by trainers and physical therapists
Cons:
- Velcro may fail over time
- Finding the correct size can be tricky
Can’t Count it Out: Lace Up Ankle Brace by Vive
Ideal for stabilizing the ankle during high-intensity sports and daily activities, this lace up brace is fully adjustable to provide a medium level of compression and full range of motion. It also comes with dual figure eight straps that wrap around the brace to provide lateral and medial support. The non-slip elastic cuff keeps the the laces and straps in position. Plus, the open heel design means that this brace can be worn under most types of shoes.
Main Features
- Laced ankle support
- Open heel design
- Figure 8 stabilizing straps
- Elastic cuff
- Low profile design
Pros:
- Available in 3 sizes
- Can be worn on either foot
- 60-day unconditional guarantee
- Comes with a manual
Cons:
- Not suitable for very large ankles
- Not as durable as some other ankle braces
The Other Basketball Ankle Braces We Reviewed
ASO Ankle Stabilizer by Med Spec
Manufactured in the US, this lace up ankle brace is made from ballistic nylon for durability and strength. The brace features laces, figure-eight stabilizing straps, a contoured tongue, and an elastic cuff closure to keep it securely in place. Plus, it is available in eight sizes and fits inside most shoe types.
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Ankle Brace by SENTEQ
This open toe and heel brace is ultra easy to slip on—there are no laces or straps to worry about. Made from moisture-wicking neoprene with mesh venting, the brace is designed to keep your feet sweat- and odor-free. It is also water-resistant and can be used during water sports. While this brace comes in three sizes, it is not adjustable so you need to make sure you are purchasing one that is exactly the right size for your ankle.
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T2 Ankle Brace by Active Ankle
This rigid heavy-duty brace offers the maximum level of protection. Made with lightweight EVA padding that contours the ankle, it features an adjustable strap that makes it suitable for both low-top and high-top shoes. Plus, the bilateral hinges support the ankle without restricting your range of motion. Unfortunately, this brace is not as durable as some other ankle supports.
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Lace Up Ankle Support by McDavid
This basketball ankle brace is made from breathable two-layer polyester and vinyl mesh, and features a ventilated tongue for maximum comfort. The U-shaped bilateral spring stays and sawn-in arch support provide additional stability. This brace comes in five sizes and two colors, but may not fit all shoe types.
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Ankle Brace Support Stabilizer by Zamst
Featuring grip technology that stops the ankle from rolling inward or outward, this ankle support for basketball and other high-impact sports comes in four sizes. It also features an anchor strap and X-strap stabilizers to keep the foot securely in place. On the down side, this ankle wrap can only be worn on either the right or left foot and is more expensive than most other ankle supports.
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Compression Ankle Brace by Shock Doctor
This synthetic ankle brace comes with internal get cushions, a non-slip footbed, and a curved tongue to offer both comfort and medium stability for moderate to major sprains and strains. It is also adjustable, and features in-built finger tabs for an easy grip when putting the brace on and taking it off. On the down side, it contains latex, which can cause allergic reactions.
Buy on AmazonFeatures to Consider for Basketball
The right kind of ankle support for basketball and other sports can make a world of difference to both your wellbeing and your game. Here are just a few things to keep in mind when investing in an ankle brace.
Fit and Comfort
No matter how supportive a brace is, it is a waste of money if it is not comfortable. A brace that is too tight can cut off your blood circulation while one that is too loose will not keep your foot from sliding and shifting during activity. Many braces are adjustable, which means that you can customize them to your particular ankle size. Lace up ankle braces are perfect for this, as they allow a tight fit, for any ankle.
Material and Durability
Nobody wants to spend money on an ankle brace that only lasts only a few games. In order to ensure that your brace stands the test of time, select one that is made from a heavy duty material such as neoprene. It is also very important to follow the cleaning instructions that come with your brace.
Level of Compression and Support
Ankle braces both support the joints and muscles, and offer compression to increase blood circulation and the level of oxygen and nutrients in your body. This can improve your level of performance during a game by minimizing muscle fatigue. Bearing this in mind, every athlete is different. Some are looking for a moderate level of support and more flexibility, while others opt for a more rigid brace that offers maximum protection. The choice is yours.
Frequently Asked Questions
Choosing the right brace is important, but once its your hands, making the most of it is up to you. See a couple questions other customers are asking to get the info you need. And remember, always consult your doctor before enjoying a new treatment regimen.
Should You Ever Wear an Ankle Brace to Bed?
Most people do not need to wear an ankle brace while they sleep, and most braces are not designed to be worn at night. There are exceptions to this rule, however. If your doctor specifies that your particular injury requires compression at night, wearing an appropriate compression device can help.
How Long Should You Wear an Ankle Brace After an Injury?
The period of time you wear an ankle brace after an injury depends on your specific condition and your doctor’s recommendations. Generally, ankle braces are worn from 10 days to six weeks after an injury. Continue wearing the brace if you are experiencing ankle inflammation, swelling, discomfort, or instability.
What are the most common types of ankle injuries associated with basketball?
Basketball is a fast-paced and high-impact game with lots of repetitive running and jumping. As such, it is not surprising that the game can take its toll on your ankles. Some of the most common foot injuries caused by basketball include:
- Sprains and strains
- Plantar Fasciitis
- Achilles heel
- Tendonitis
- Stress fracture
Weighing All the Factors
The best ankle brace for basketball and other activities is both comfortable and supportive. Our top choice, Vive’s ankle brace, fulfills both of these requirements. Med Spec’s ASO ankle stabilizer and McDavid’s ankle support brace are also good choices. Take a look at our list of the best ankle braces for basketball and make the most out of your game.
Best Choice - Ankle Support Brace by McDavid
The combination of a lace-up design and neoprene wrap stabilizer, makes a perfect choice for demanding sports like basketball.
Buy on Amazon