If you’re looking to prevent an ankle injury or recovering from injury an ankle brace can help. It offers support and protection. Not only that it can benefit a wide range of conditions like arthritis, tendonitis, sprains, ankle pain, and plantar fasciitis.
Ankle braces can give you excellent support however if it’s not the right fit or utilizes the wrong material it may be uncomfortable.
So here are some factors to consider when choosing the right ankle brace for you.
Proper fit
Ankle braces come in shoes based sizes or ankle circumference. So use a sizing chart to find the right one for you.
Neoprene vs Fabric
Neoprene is a flexible material which offers these benefits. A close fit, support, and heat insulation to help reduce pain. The con is this type of ankle brace doesn’t breathe very well and may be too hot to wear all day.
Fabric and knit materials are much more breathable but don’t offer the same kind of therapeutic heat effect as neoprene.
Types of Ankle Braces
Ankles braces can come in different types like:
Ankle Sleeves – which can come in Fabric or neoprene. These provide protection combined with compression. These are typically recommended for those with plantar fasciitis, arthritis, tendonitis, or injury. It helps with pain relief, inflammation, and swelling.
Ankle Supports with straps ultize straps over the sleeve for added protection and compression. This is good for situations where there is a high chance of rolling your ankle like in many sports.
Lace Up Ankle Braces – these are shoelace design braces where you tie them to the tightness you need just like a shoe. They provide the maximum amount of support. Also allow you to customize the right amount of tightness from top to bottom.
How tight should your ankle brace be?
Every athlete has their preferred tightness but generally it should not be too tight where it restricts blood flow or causes pain. The tighter it is the more protection it offers but with less flexibility. So take the time to find the right amount of tightness for your situation.