There are people who practice it just to improve their appearance and health, and those who do it as a profession. Injuries in these disciplines are very common, especially in the ankle area for those who run, jump or constantly perform movements in this area.
To alleviate and prevent this type of accidents, the use of compression ankle sleeves is the most recommended, but that's not all. In the following article we will explain their types, features, most common ankle injuries and more.
What is the best ankle brace for sport injuries?
- Sizes: One size
- Colors: Black
- Material: Nylon
- Nº. of Products: 2 Pack
- Closure type: Closure with elastic straps and Velcro
- Includes 2 units
- Adjustable strap
- One size only
This ankle support is worn on either foot by simply placing its adjustable strap with the desired tension to keep the joint firm. Its cuffs are non-slip, so you'll always have your socks in the right place to control mobility. In those injuries where you need the adjustable wraps to hold the flexo-extension movements you should consult because it is possible that it does not fulfill this function.
- Sizes: S-XL
- Colors: Black
- Material: Nylon
- Nº. of Products: Single
- Closure type: Closure with elastic straps and Velcro
- Includes protective plates
- X-shaped cross-band fastening
- Breathable
- Quality finishes
- Too bulky
- Not suitable for washing machine
- Only one per order
Thanks to this protector you will be able to relieve pain and reduce inflammation caused by acute injuries or by professional recommendation to prevent domestic accidents. The protective plates are located on the side of the ankle and provide ideal support during movement, while the lightweight, breathable fabric offers a cross-band support to maintain stability. It is a product that limits much of the movement of the ankle, so it is not recommended in certain daily actions or sports.
Ultra Ankle - Ankle Brace for Injury Prevention, Provides Support and Helps Prevent Sprained Ankles
- Sizes: S-M y L-XL
- Colors: Black
- Material: Thermoplastic resin
- Nº. of Products: Single
- Closure type: Closure with elastic straps and Velcro
- Ultra zoom technology
- Quality finishes
- Not suitable for all shoes
- Only one per order
Men and women can choose the size by measuring the circumference between the calcaneus and talus bones. It adapts to any type of foot, thanks to its straps with Velcro closure that you can insert them in any of the two available slots. Do not forget to place the ends correctly so that they adhere to the pad. Keep in mind that not all footwear adapts to this protector, so the fastening may not be as desired.
- Sizes: XS-S-M-L-XL
- Colors: Black
- Material: Polyester
- Nº. of Products: Single
- Closure type: Laces, elastic and Velcro straps
- Well-designed for proper support
- Breathable and ventilated tongue
- Ideal for anyone
- Breathable
- No hot/cold pack included
- Not suitable for washing machine
- Only one per order
Don't think twice! Choose the Mcdavid ankle brace for men and women because it offers breathable and ventilated materials with a padded lining so you can wear it all day and night. In addition, in summer seasons you will not have any inconvenience, since it does not generate bad odor. Choose the correct size because, in some people, the size of the ankle brace is too big according to the reference table.
- Sizes: T1 to T5
- Colors: 3 Options: Beige, Gray, Black
- Material: Viscoelastic
- Nº. of Products: Single
- Closure type: None
- Does not retain heat
- Breathable
- Stretch fabric
- Machine washable
- Low support strength
- Difficult to select the perfect size
- Only one per order
You can wear it anywhere you go because its ergonomic design will adjust to the ankle so you can wear it under your shoes. It promotes blood stimulation due to the compression and support that the ankle receives, but you must keep in mind that heat is not retained. The different sizes offered by the product will serve to accompany each movement of the joint opening, although in some people the size does not correspond to the table.
- Sizes: S-M-L-XL
- Colors: 2 Options: Black-Grey and Black-Yellow
- Material: Nylon
- Nº. of Products: 2 Pack
- Closure type: None
- Quality finishes
- Highly elastic fabric
- Low support strength
It is ideal for use in any activity, and thanks to its size and weight you can take it wherever you want without taking up space. Warm or cold weather is not an obstacle for this ankle protector because its nylon and elastane fabric keeps the foot at the ideal temperature. As it wears it is likely that the compression will decrease, so you should analyze the correct size to order.
- Sizes: XS-S-M-L-XL-XXL
- Colors: 3 Options: Blue, Pink and Black
- Material: Breathable
- Nº. of Products: Single
- Closure type: Closure with elastic straps and Velcro
- Optimal support with strap
- Quality finishes
- Good fit
- Breathable fabric
- No material indicated
- Not suitable for washing machine
- Only one per order
Its adjustable strap gives extra pressure to keep the foot always aligned. You can use the ankle brace to combat the symptoms of arthritis and inflammation of ligaments and tendons. Just measure your ankle circumference correctly and choose the right size, according to the size chart. If you tighten the straps too much, you may feel a tingling sensation, so it is often advisable to consult your doctor before continuing to wear this compression sock.
- Sizes: S/M, L/XL y XXL
- Colors: 8 Options
- Material: Breathable
- Nº. of Products: 2 Pack
- Closure type: None
- Various colors
- Ideal for everyone
- Various sizes
- Highly elastic fabric
- Very small sizes
- Not suitable for washing machine
The compressive support absorbs perspiration, eliminating odor and keeping the foot always dry, which increases the feeling of comfort. The different sizes are divided between men and women and, to choose the correct size, you should measure the circumference of the arch and ankle. If you have skin lesions or wounds, it is not recommended that you use this product.
Video: Ankle joint anatomy
Types of ankle braces you should know about
What are the most common ankle injuries in sports?
The ankle joint is one of the most injury joints, as it provides stability to the entire body. Therefore, any sport that requires constant and possibly sudden movement of this area puts you at risk for injury, pain or fracture, the most common forms of which are explained below.
Tendonitis
Ankle tendonitis is defined as tendon damage that results in chronic inflammation of the tissues and tendons around the ankle. It often occurs in all sports, due to intense physical activity or repetitive activities performed over and over again.
It can be said that one of the disciplines that suffer the most from this type of trauma is basketball, due to the frequent jumps and the overload generated not only by the training sessions, but also by the great physical aspect that must load this joint at the same time as the flexions and rotations.
Muscle cramps
Cramps are not uncommon in sports or even in everyday life, and although many don't think much of them, they are often a warning sign that something is wrong. Ankle is a different story, it is caused by spasms in the tendons due to overactivity and overload from forced movements.
This condition occurs in almost all sports, because the joints are constantly stressed by physical training or perhaps by long competitions, which, combined with some dehydration, leads to it.
From the point of view of immobility, it is considered an injury, as it can become a therapeutic problem if it occurs frequently. In summary, ankle sprains are not simple and should not be ignored, as the pain is a warning of more serious situations.
Ankle sprain
It is caused by an injury to the ligaments that make up a joint. Excessive physical activity and sports, as well as sudden movements, cause the ligaments to tear or be stretched, so that the ankle suffers so much that it can no longer turn. Soccer, basketball, football or tennis are some of the activities that are the protagonists of this trauma, since they are characterized by rapid and unexpected movements, changes of direction and effort that cause a sprain.
Plantar fasciitis
Plantar fasciitis is the tissue under the foot that ensures the perfect functioning of the foot and heel. In athletes, the cause is usually overuse or even age. It leads to inflammation in the heel area, which is accompanied by constant pain and prevents the foot from locking.
In running, this injury is common because it involves running at high speeds. Therefore, if the athlete runs too often and does not use the necessary protection, the plantar fascia is injured. Fasciitis connects to the tendons, the ankle joints and the foot in general, completely blocking the steps or movements of the foot.
Bursitis
Bursitis is responsible for the smooth functioning of the ankle. They are small fluid-filled sacs that are located between the bones and the moving parts of the flexion and prevent them from colliding.
It can occur in any sport, for example hiking or climbing, as they rest their strength and activity on the ankle, causing the fluid pockets to become irritated and inflamed, eventually making the mobility and stability of the same impossible. If bursitis becomes an injury, it must be treated in a timely manner, as it can take a chronic course that makes movement impossible in the long run or leaves secondary symptoms that slow recovery somewhat.
Buying guide: Tips on how to buy the best ankle brace for sports
Ankle braces are our fallback systems. Therefore, choosing the right ankle brace is a challenging task. You need to consider aspects such as size, material and even the components that make it up. In sports, injuries are commonplace and this sportswear is the only way to avoid risks directly and precisely.
Here are the most important features you should know before buying a ankle brace:
Depending on the sport
- Basketball: this sport is very demanding in terms of jumps and position changes, and is also the one most likely to cause ankle injuries. For this reason, it is advisable to use ankle braces that provide strength and stability to the entire joint system, eliminating the possibility of ankle injury or trauma.
- Volleyball: Generally, it is responsible for several injuries to different parts of the body, but the ankle is undoubtedly the most important, as it carries the force throughout the game. Since sprains are the most common, it is advisable to wear these compression garments to avoid major injuries.
- Running and soccer: for these sports, a flexible ankle brace that provides pressure and stability is essential. Both require high running speeds and are prone to injuries or sprains that can lead to short or long-term suspension.
- Tennis, badminton and racquet sports: have many things in common. One of them is the precision and effort required to perform the movements correctly, which makes them prone to injury. For this reason, the use of ankle supports is important to avoid an injury that can cause a temporary withdrawal from the activity. Compression ankle supports without side panels would be ideal because athletes need comfort to perform their positions with ease.
- Gymnastics: the high and low impact push-ups that this sport requires is one of the causes of so many injuries. In addition, it develops speed and static strength, which are performed by the ankle with high frequency. Therefore, compression sleeves are essential for this sport, as they provide the necessary protection to prevent injuries and ensure long-term recovery.
- Hiking, trekking, climbing and mountain sports: the ankle is responsible for the strength required in these activities, because if it is not protected, serious injuries often occur due to stretching or tearing of the ligaments. Therefore, compression ankle supports are recommended for sports to create a comfortable, safe and durable environment.
- Cycling: All mobilization occurs through the ankles. As a result, bursitis and fasciitis easily occur as the constant movement disrupts function and affects the ankle. When playing, it would be ideal to wear elastic ankle supports to facilitate movement.
- Golf: Even though the effort involved in golf may seem intense, it all weighs on the ankle, which can lead to injury due to overuse. Therefore, you should choose ankle supports that provide warmth and pressure, such as compression supports.
Material
The type of material is a key factor in the proper functioning of ankle orthotics, so you should carefully consider this aspect in the garment you want to buy. They differ in terms of colors, design, accessories and additional features depending on the function you need.
Here are two of the most common materials used to make them:
- Neoprene: are used in almost all clothing, including recovery clothing, because of their high strength, flexibility and heat retention.
- Stretchable fabri: this type of material varies according to function and style, the most notable feature being that it can be stretched at will without losing its original size and breathability. It is used in different proportions with neoprene or other fibers.
- Nylon or Spandex strap: this is a synthetic polymer that has become popular in sportswear due to its strength, stability, high elasticity, breathability, non-ironing and wear resistance.
Type of support
This is one of the most important aspects if you want to use it in sports activities. This is because you need to feel secure when you are on the field. Moreover, an ankle brace that is rolled out of its natural state due to constant movement and sweat can affect your performance. That's why we recommend two important materials here if you want to get a good fit.
- Velcro: It is one of the most commonly used because it is easy and secure to close and open. It is used to allow adjustment without causing damage.
- Hinges: these are recommended for ankle orthotics for recovery, but their main function is to provide greater stability. Therefore, you should consult your trainer, as this may be useful depending on the sport.
- Anti-slip: One of the most used and recommended products is the comfort they provide in clothing, since the silicone provides both support and protection.
Size
Sizing is often the most stressful part of choosing our product, because when it comes to your health, you need to take the right measurements. But don't worry, we'll give you the information you need here so you won't have problems with the garment because of a wrong choice.
Design
Every athlete wants to look good on the playing field. Therefore, you should consider certain physical aspects when choosing your garment. Today, there are many creative designs that offer you a variety of colors, patterns and accessibility to find the perfect balance between efficiency and comfort. Remember that the design of your knee brace can be your business card.
In conclusion, and in the analysis of all sports, you should know that models differ in many ways, both in size and physical aspects. Therefore, when buying, consult your trainer or therapist to make the right choice.
Price
As an athlete, and even more so as a professional athlete, you need proper ankle protection so that you can continue to do your job safely and comfortably. The only way to ensure the effectiveness of the garment is with the use of sports compression ankle suspenders, made with highly qualified, flexible and breathable materials that can perform in common, providing the benefits you expect as much, with the price a little higher than the rest, for its guaranteed protection and durability.
This would not be possible with cheap products, since they could not be made of the right materials to allow the ankle to heal or protect it from injury. The more accessories you add to a garment, the higher the cost and the more effective the garment will be. So don 't think about price when it comes to the health of your ankles and the future of your professional career, think about the benefits you will receive.