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: S-M-L-XL
- Colors: Green, Pink and Grey
- Material: Breathable
- Nº of Products: 2 pieces
- Uses: Rehabilitation and sport
- Elastic Fabric
- Double Anti-Slip Silicone
- Ergonomic & Adjustable
- Sport Design
- Unisex
Double Silicone Anti-slip
Elastic Fabric
Various Colors and Sizes
- Sizes: T1 to T6
- Colours: Grey and Blue
- Material: Breathable Material
- No. of Products: Single
- Type of closure: None
- Positioning aid
- Highly elastic fabric made of breathable material
- Material not indicated
It is designed for people suffering from arthrosis and tears because it stimulates blood circulation thanks to the viscoelastic pads located on each side. The model of this muscle-stabilising bandage comes in different sizes, but be aware that it can only be used on the right foot. The lateral guides can cause discomfort when walking and, in some cases, wear out easily.
- Sizes: M
- Colours: Black
- Material: Polyester
- No. of Products: Single
- Type of fastening: Elastic straps, laces and velcro
- Very lightweight design
- Laces for a good fit
- Elastic Achilles arch
- Quick and easy to use
- Bulkier
- One size fits all
You should give a good tension to the laces, stretch the lower strap to fit the instep and then pull the upper band until you feel that your ankle is stiff. If you want to maintain more pressure you should stretch the loops during activity. If you do not tighten the laces properly the whole brace will be loose. Please note that you cannot apply this stabiliser if you have open wounds on your ankle, suffer from dermatitis or have blood circulation problems.
- Sizes: S-M
- Colours: 2 Options: Black, Pink
- Material: Nylon
- No. of Products: 2
- Type of fastening: 2 Velcro fastenings
- Easy and quick to put on
- Ideal for youngsters
- Highly elastic fabric made of breathable material
- Available in 2 sizes
- Thin material
By improving blood circulation, it has a therapeutic effect which helps to reduce inflammation in case of ligament injuries or joint diseases. In order to know the correct size of the ankle brace, it is necessary to compare the size of the product with the size of the shoe. The pressure may decrease over time as you loosen the elastic support or the adjustable ankle strap. The right stabilising ankle brace should, in some cases, be worn with compression socks to produce a better effect.
- Sizes: L
- Colours: Black
- Material: Spandex
- Nº of products: 1
- Type of closure: Closure with elastic straps and velcro
- Non-slip elastic strap
- Wide range of motion
- Helps reduce foot pressure
- Additional compression support
- Bulky
- No instructions
To improve the efficiency of shock absorption it is necessary to position the foot and fasten the support to the ankle and sole, by means of its powerful Velcro straps. Then, incorporate the stabilisation strap and you are ready for climbing, running, cycling and many other sports. Keep in mind that its non-pilling material can cause irritation due to the bulky space it takes up, so you won't get a proper fit.
- Sizes: M-XL
- Colours: Grey
- Material: Neoprene
- No. of Products: 1
- Type of fastening: None
- High anatomical versatility
- Stabilizes the joint
- Large sizes
Its ergonomic design achieves maximum grip without disrupting joint range and its external seams keep the foot and lower calf area snug at all times. Thanks to the flexible material it is made of, it can be worn under shoes in summer because it evaporates body moisture. If you choose this compression garment for intensive use, it is likely that the back seams will come apart and the ankle brace will separate.
- Sizes: S-M-L-XL
- Colours: Black
- Material: Nylon
- No. of Products: 1
- Type of fastening: Lace-up fastening
- Laces for improved support
- Quality finish
- Breathable material
- Highly elastic fabric
- Voluminous
- Not suitable for all shoes
You can wear it under your shoes to prevent sports accidents, sprains and also to deflate the joint when the blood circulation is not correct. It can be used for any kind of sport and training. The laces are attached to the breathable mesh fabric to prevent odour. The velcro sometimes does not stick properly.
- Sizes: S
- Colours: Beige
- Material: Neoprene 50%, Polyurethane 10%, Nylon 40%
- Nº of products: 1
- Type of closure: Closure with elastic and velcro straps
- Prevents major injuries
- Suitable for all shoes
- Small size
The beige colour of the Actesso ankle brace allows it to be worn at work or when going to school, as it goes unnoticed. By keeping the heel uncovered, it helps to perform a large number of movements and to increase comfort when you wear it. Its external seams or its micro-perforated fabric may cause skin irritation, due to its latex composition.
- Sizes: S-M-L-XL
- Colours: 6 Options: Varios colors
- Material: Elastic
- No. of Products: 2
- Type of closure: None
- Good fit and design
- Suitable for use with trainers
- No material specified
Its fit and size will keep you comfortable all day long, so you can also wear this ankle brace when you go to work, and best of all, no one will notice. The lightweight fabric construction prevents moisture build-up as perspiration evaporates and keeps your toes in the open air. You can also wear it at night, but you should consider that the nylon fabric tends to irritate the skin. It is not recommended when there are wounds.
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.