IN A HURRY? HERE ARE OUR 3 TOP PICKS FOR THE BEST BASKETBALL ANKLE BRACE & SUPPORT OPTIONS OF 2020
McDavid 195 Basketball Ankle Brace
Premium Comfort and Support At An Affordable Price
McDavid 195 offers premium compression with an adjustable strap for extra lateral support. Athletes participating in an independent study had 3x fewer injuries when wearing the McDavid 195 ankle brace. A great option for any serious baller.
Zamst A2-DX Strong Ankle Brace
An Advanced Ankle Brace Engineered with Dual Molded EXO Grid Support Tech
The Zamst A2-Dx provides the strongest ankle support for moderate to severe ankle sprains and rolls. It's especially suited for basketball players who have previously sustained an ankle injury and lack strength and stability in the ankle joint.
BiO Skin COmpression Sleeve
An Affordable Lightweight Ankle Sleeves Perfect For Basketball Play
The BioSkin Compression Brace sleeves are super comfortable and easily fit in most basketball shoes. They have a comfortable strap which mimics traditional taped strapping. The compression can also help promote recovery and performance.
LOOKING FOR THE BEST BASKETBALL ANKLE SUPPORT? HERE IS A QUICK SUMMARY TABLE OF YOUR TOP OPTIONS:
- 1Best Overall Basketball Ankle Guard = Mc David 195
- 2Best Budget Basketball Ankle Guard = Bioskin
- 3Best Post Injury Basketball Ankle Guard = Zamst-A2DX
- 4Best Innovative Basketball Ankle Guard = DonJoy Ankle Pod
- 5Best Lace-Up Basketball Ankle Guard = McDavid Lace-Up
THE DEFINITIVE GUIDE TO ANKLE SUPPORT OPTIONS FOR BASKETBALL PLAYERS
Ankle braces and support can help prevent many (but not all) basketball related ankle injuries
An ankle injury can be one of the most frustrating and debilitating injuries that a basketball player can sustain.
A recent study looked at the most common injuries sustained by NBA players over the past 17 years.
The study found that lateral ankle sprains were the most common injury and account for 13.2 % of all injuries over that time period.
This is not surprising considering that basketball players are often jumping and landing in a crowd of players.
Gordon Hayward's horrific in game ankle injury shows just how easily a regulation play can result in a career altering ankle injury.
Would an ankle brace helped prevent Gordan Hayward's horrific ankle injury?
Ankle injuries often take a long time to heal and leave you susceptible to re-injury.
Injuries of the ankle are notoriously hard to rehabilitate from as often the ligaments around the ankle joint are stretched and often never return to their starting length.
Basketball shoes can't fully protect you from sustaining a serious ankle sprain, although many shoes are designed with ankle protection in mind.
More ankle support is often required and can be obtained in the form of an ankle support guards, sleeves or ankle braces.
In the following article I will teach you everything you need to know about ankle support and protection gear for basketball.
I will also introduce you to the top 10 basketball ankles sleeves and braces on the market.
Here is a quick look at the current top 10 best basketball ankle wear items you can buy online. You can find full reviews and see images/videos of each of these products a little further down on this page.
- 1McDavid 195 Ankle Brace
- 2Zamst-A2 DX Ankle Brace
- 3BioSkin Ankle Compression Sleeve
- 4Gonicc Pro Basketball Ankle Sleeve
- 5Med Spec ASO Ankle Stabilizer
- 6Mcdavid Lace up Ankle Brace
- 7CEP Unisex Ortho+ Achilles Brace
- 8Ankle Foot Brace Compression Wrap
- 9DonJoy Performance POD Ankle Brace
- 10Fracture Recovery, Protection and Ankle Healing Brace
What Are Basketball Ankle Sleeves and Braces For, and How Can They Help You On The Basketball Court?
Wearing ankle sleeves and braces can benefit basketball players in a number of ways including:
- Preventing sprains/strains to the muscles, ligaments and tendons surrounding the ankle joint by keeping the muscles warm.
- Promoting recovery and assisting in ankle injury rehabilitation.
- Improving neuro-muscular power in the muscles surrounding the ankle joint.
- Enhancing proprioception around the ankle joint which may improve agility and lateral quickness on the court.
- Provide support after a significant ankle injury such as an ankle fracture or severe sprain.
3 THINGS TO CONSIDER BEFORE BUYING ANKLE PROTECTION GEAR TO WEAR THIS BASKETBALL SEASON...
We will get to the top 10 ankle protection gear reviews list shortly. But first here are a few very important things that you need to consider before purchasing any protective ankle sleeves or braces to wear while playing basketball.
1. How To Choose The Best Ankle Brace, Or Sleeve Support For Your Basketball Specific Needs?
OPTION 1 - Why You Should Consider Choosing To Wear A Heavy Duty Ankle Brace With Inserts
There are a number of reasons why a basketball player may choose to start wearing an ankle brace.
It is very common for basketball players to start shopping for an ankle brace after sustaining an ankle injury while playing.
In this case an athlete may have lost ankle function and stability due to a sprain of the ligaments surrounding the ankle joint.
Steph Curry dealt with severe ankle instability issues early in his career after sustaining multiple ankle sprains. To help support his weak and injured ankles he chose to wear a Zamst A2-Dx.
The heavy duty Zamst brace helped to keep him on the court and become the player that he is today.
Heavy duty braces such as the Zamst-A2-Dx provide enhanced support for all ankle sprains. The anatomically correct medial and lateral guards, inserts and exoskeleton help prevent the ankle from rolling in and out.
However, although ankle braces provide the best protection for basketball players they are quite bulky.
Some players feel that the bulkiness of these heavy duty braces sacrifices performance on the court.
Best-Selling Heavy Duty Basketball Ankle Brace:
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OPTION 2 - Why You Should Consider Choosing To Wear Ankle Brace/Support Guards With Laces & Straps (MOST POPULAR)
Many players prefer to choose to wear an ankle support with straps and laces as they offer excellent support while still allowing for maximum freedom of movement on the court.
Ankle guards with a strap and laces are the most commonly used type of ankle protection for basketball players.
Any basketball player looking for an ankle guard that offers maximum protection while still allowing you to run,cut and jump should seriously consider checking out the the McDavid 195.
Ankle guards with laces and straps can take a while to put on, but once you do your ankles will feel bulletproof.
Best-Selling Basketball Ankle Sleeves:
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OPTION 3 - Why You Should Consider Choosing To Wear Light Duty Ankle Compression Sleeves and Support Guards
Many basketball players may choose to wear lightweight ankle protection just for a little extra stability and piece of mind.
The lightweight ankle protection options come in the form of a compression ankle sleeve.
Ankle compression sleeves provide proprioceptive feedback and support that may make you feel like you can run faster and jump higher while wearing them.
Lightweight ankle supports such as the Gonicc Pro are a great choice for basketball players who are after a mild ankle protection and enhanced basketball performance and post game recovery.
These come with light duty ankle straps which are great for players wearing low cut basketball shoes.
Just remember that these light duty ankle compression sleeves and supports will not prevent most major ankle injuries experienced on the basketball court.
Best-Selling Basketball Ankle Sleeves:
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OPTION 4 - Why You Should Consider Choosing To Wear An Ankle Roll Guard
The Armour1 Ankle Roll Guard and DonJoy Performance Pods are innovative new products that has proven to be as effective at reducing ankle sprains as an ankle brace or strapping tape.
These ankle roll guards haven't got swooped up and adapted by popular hoop culture yet.
However, customer reviews on Amazon seem to be very positive so far.
Best-Selling Basketball Ankle Roll-Guard:
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2. How To Choose Ankle Guard That Is Comfortable To Wear While Playing Basketball?
When choosing a ankle brace for basketball it is vital that you choose a model that is of optimal fit and comfort.
If you choose a brace that is too loose you will not get sufficient protection from the product and will likely get painful blisters forming around the foot and ankle.
On the other hand, if you choose an ankle brace that is too tight you run the risk of cutting off you circulation. You don't want your foot going numb mid game, so take the time to find the right fit for you.
Follow the links on our site to the individual product pages and their you will find guides on how to select the appropriate size based on your shoe size.
Also take into consideration the sock size that you are currently wearing or choose to wear while playing basketball
We recommend wearing a quality pair of basketball socks under neath any ankle brace in order to reduce the potential for blistering.
Best-Selling Basketball Socks:
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3. How To Choose An Ankle Support That Is Durable And Will Stand Up To The Demands Of Basketball?
When it comes to durability in ankle braces you often get what you pay for.
There are some cheap and nasty models out there that offer little more protection than a standard sock.
If you are after superior durability in your ankle brace that will last you season after season then it is definitely best to invest in a quality brace made by a quality brand.
Here is a list of the leading manufacturers of basketball ankle braces, guards and supports:
- McDavid (see full range on Amazon)
- Zamst (see full range on Amazon)
- Zenith (see full range on Amazon)
- ASO (see full range on Amazon)
Braces can't prevent you becoming a victim of "ankle breakers" but they can help prevent broken ankles
TOP 10 BEST ANKLE BRACES, GUARDS, SLEEVES AND SUPPORTS FOR BASKETBALL PLAYERS REVIEWS
We’ve saved you the time and energy by doing all of the investigative work for you.
Now all you have to do is read our easy to follow short list below and make your decision on which ankle brace, sleeve or guard is right for you.
#1. McDavid 195 Basketball Ankle Brace Review
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"The McDavid 195 is one of the most comfortable, high protection ankle braces available for basketball players. A top choice for basketball players around the world"
Key Features
Review Summary
The McDavid 195 Ankle Brace made of single-layer polyester fabric which provides premium support while remaining very light weight.The 195's innovative strapping system mimics the function of strapping tape. The slimline design makes it comfortable with any low or high cut basketball shoe.
These braces, like most quality ankle braces, tend to take a little while to break in. The first couple of times that you wear them they may feel a little stiff. After a couple of sessions they will break in nicely.
The McDavid 195 has 9 sets of eyelets which ensures full length protection. This also means that these ankle braces take a little longer to put on than others on the market. Overall, the McDavid 195 ankle brace is a worthwhile investment into your on court ankle protection. The light weight and comfortable design ensures that you can continue to perform at your best while wearing them.
At the time of writing this post the McDavid 195 basketball ankle guard had an average customer rating of 4.4 out of 5. You can learn exactly how it works, read reviews here on Amazon .
#2. Zamst A2-DX Basketball Ankle Brace Review
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"The Zamst A2-DX Ankle Brace is a state of the art brace that offers unmatched protection and play-ability on the court. As soon as you slip on a pair of the Zamst's you feel safe, secure and "locked in".
Key Features
Review Summary
The Zamst A2-DX is the model of ankle brace worn and popularized by NBA superstar Steph Curry.
After suffering multiple ankle injuries Steph started wearing these braces 2012/2013 NBA season. These braces helped him get back on the basketball court and become the legend he is today.
These premium braces are a little more expensive than most other basketball braces we have reviewed.
The process of putting these on does take a while to master. Be prepared to read through the instructions.The design is very advanced.
Despite looking quite bulky, these Zamst ankle braces are very comfortable and light weight. If you have had a previous ankle injury and want a brace to support your ankles as you return to the court then the Zamst A2-Dx is perfect for you.
At the time of writing this post the Zamst A2-DX ankle brace had an average customer rating of 4.4 out of 5. You can learn exactly how it works, read reviews here on Amazon .
#3. Gonicc Pro Basketball Ankle Sleeve Review
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"The premium comfort nylon material and the ergonomic design of this foot sleeve makes them lightweight on the court."
Key Features
Review Summary
This ankle sleeve from Gonicc is a great value for money product for basketball players looking for light ankle protection that doesn't hinder on-court performance.
Most ankle protection braces and sleeves come sold individually. This ankle sleeve with straps comes in a pack of 2.
The compression in each ankle sleeve provides nice ankle stabilization. This is also a nice sleeve to wear post ankle injury to help reduce swelling and promote blood flow.
The makers of these are so confident in their product that they offer a 100% lifetime money back satisfaction guarantee.
At the time of writing this post the Gonicc Pro ankle brace had an average customer rating of 4.3 out of 5. You can learn exactly how it works, read reviews here on Amazon .
#4. Aso Ankle Guard /Stabilizer Review
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"The ASO brace provides a feel very similar to strapping tape as it replicates the gold standard figure 8 ankle strapping pattern. The bracing provided by the ASO is superior to taping as the fit remains firm and supportive for the duration of a basketball game."
Key Features
Review Summary
The ASO Ankle Stabilizer is a very popular, great value for money combination brace (straps & laces).
The ASO provides the perfect ankle support option for basketball players looking to prevent reoccurring low ankle sprains.
Users of this brace have reported that they can take a few games to completely break in. The ASO runs a little large in sizing, so be sure to order down one size or wear thick socks while wearing them.
At the time of writing this post the Med Spec ASO Ankle Stabilizer had an average customer rating of 4.4 out of 5. You can learn exactly how it works, read reviews here on Amazon .
#5. McDavid Lace Up Basketball Ankle Guard Review
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"Out of all the lace up style ankle braces that we investigated we found the McDavid to offer the best combination of value for money, innovative features, comfort and protection."
Key Features
Review Summary
The McDavid Lace Up ankle braces are a great option for basketball players who want moderate support with excellent comfort and play-ability.
The McDavid 199's high lace system is perfect for players worried about re-injuring a high ankle sprain.
At the time of writing this post the McDavid Lace Up Ankle Brace had an average customer rating of 4.3 out of 5. You can learn exactly how it works, read reviews here on Amazon .
#6. CEP Ortho Ankle Compression Brace Review
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"The CEP Ortho brace are a great option for basketball players with Achilles tendinitis or recovering from a previous ankle sprain."
Key Features
Review Summary
The CEP ORTHO BRACE Compression braces offer little ankle support but they can provide some nice proprioceptive feedback around the ankle joint.
These ankle compression sleeves are very easy to slide on and off and are very comfy to wear while playing.
Personally I love the feel of these compression braces around my ankles while playing ball. They make me feel faster and more explosive on the court.
At the time of writing this post the CEP Unisex Ortho+ Achilles Brace had an average customer rating of 4.3 out of 5. You can learn exactly how it works, read reviews here on Amazon .
#7. BioSkin Ankle Compression Sleeve Review
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"The BioSkin ankle sleeve is a great choice for basketball players that want moderate support and high comfort at a very affordable price."
Key Features
Review Summary
The Bioskin Ankle Sleeve comes complete with a external strapping system that emulates traditional figure 8 ankle strapping techniques. It's thin and comfortable and fits in most basketball shoes with ease.
At the time of writing this post the AllNet Shooting Aid had an average customer rating of 4.5 out of 5. You can learn exactly how it works, read reviews here on Amazon .
#8. Ankle Foot Brace Compression Wrap Review
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"These wraps are great for stabilizing injured or weak ankles during basketball games and training.."
Key Features
Review Summary
These compression straps provide an alternative to traditional ankle taping. These straps can be pulled as tight as you need to ensure you achieve optimal ankle support.
At the time of writing this post the Mcolics Compression Wraps had an average customer rating of 3.8 out of 5. You can learn exactly how it works, read reviews here on Amazon .
#9. DonJoy Performance POD Ankle Brace Review
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"The DonJoy POD's low profile design and adjust-ability ensure a customizable fit for any basketball shoe."
Key Features
Review Summary
The DonJoy Ankle Pod is an innovative ankle support device that may revolutionize the way we think about ankle braces. The pod provides "On Demand" technology which engages specifically when needed to proactively prohibit ankle roll and other common ankle injuries.
At the time of writing this post the DonJoy Performance POD Ankle Brace had an average customer rating of 4.2 out of 5. You can learn exactly how it works, read reviews here on Amazon .
#10. Fracture Recovery, Protection and Ankle Healing Brace Review
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"If you happen to suffer a significant ankle injury a heavy duty "moon boot" such as this can help you on your road to recovery."
Key Features
Review Summary
Now this heavy duty fracture brace is one item that I hope you never have to consider purchasing. This boot is specifically designed to provide mobility, protection and support while recovering from a toe, foot or ankle injury.
At the time of writing this post the BraceAbility Ankle Recovery Boot had an average customer rating of 4.4 out of 5. You can learn exactly how it works, read reviews here on Amazon .
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ANKLE SUPPORT GEAR BUYING GUIDE & FAQ
Basketball ankle injuries are often a result of landing on another players foot after trying to crash the boards or take a shot.
Of course the most humiliating way to sustain an ankle injury is to literally have your “ankles broken” by an opponent throwing a vicious crossover.
Wearing one of the ankles braces, guards and compression sleeves listed above can greatly reduce your risk of sustaining an ankle injury on the court.
It is also important to spend time strengthening the stabilizing muscles around the ankle joint by performing a range of prehabilitation exercises and basketball specific strength training such as bosu ball lunges.
However, regardless of how much time and effort you put into strengthening the structures of the ankle with exercises, they still will not be able to tolerate the forces directed through the ankle when landing on someone’s foot from a height.
Did You Know? Landing on another players foot is the most common way of spraining an ankle while playing basketball.
Many basketball players worry that by consistently wearing their ankle brace during basketball training sessions and games will weaken their ankles over time.
As long as your ankle brace allows for full range of motion ankle braces will not weaken your ankles.
Regardless of if you wear an ankle brace or not, all basketball players should spend time in the gym performing balance, plyometric and strength training without ankle braces.
Yes, the majority of basketball players should wear an ankle brace as they can prevent many common ankle injuries.
Ankle braces can also give basketball players the confidence to return to the court after an ankle injury plus reduce the risk of reoccurring injuries.
Choosing an ankle brace from the list above will ensure that your ankles can stay safe of the court without sacrificing performance.
BEST-SELLING BASKETBALL ANKLE PROTECTION WEAR
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FINAL THOUGHTS ON CHOOSING AN ANKLE BRACE OR SLEEVE SUPPORT TO WEAR WHILE PLAYING BASKETBALL
The technology and research into basketball ankle support apparel has come a long way over the past decade.
These days most major sporting brands have recognized the value in providing their customers with quality basketball ankle support options that are comfortable, lightweight and effective.
Leading companies such as Aso, Zamst and McDavid have developed state of the art basketball ankle braces that have been proven to reduce the amount of “roll” available to the ankle joint.
These braces wont protect you 100% from an ankle injury, but ankle braces can reduce the severity of an injury and are a essential piece of basketball apparel worth considering.
We have spent countless hours reviewing and researching the best ankle braces for basketball on the market.
As you can see from the list above, most of these basketball ankle braces are actually quite affordable and offer excellent support.
Also, from personal experience I have found that once you have a pair of quality ankle braces they are likely to last you for a lifetime.
We hope you have found our comparison and reviews of what we consider to be the best basketball ankle braces currently available online helpful in empowering you to make an informed decision upon purchase.
Hopefully you know have better idea of the differences in the features and benefits that the most popular ankle braces offer.
Basketball players are turning to protective equipment such as ankle braces, knee guards, arm sleeves and mouth guards to ensure they can stay on the court.
If you have an ankle injury or are worried about an ankle break or sprain taking you out of action this basketball season, an ankle brace is definitely worth considering.
Be sure to check back to this page in the future as we regularly update the post with the latest and greatest basketball ankle braces on the market.
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Awesome guide guys. I learned a lot. Thanks
Glad to hear JB!