The Best Basketball Ankle Braces of 2024

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Nothing is worse than getting an injury while playing the game you love: basketball. No injury is more prevalent in the sport than ankle turns and sprains. This can be an injury that knocks someone out for the rest of the game or weeks at a time. With this in mind, you need the best basketball ankles braces to guard and protect your precious lower body. 

No longer will a crossover or poor landing knock you out of a contest because of an ankle issue. In the 21st Century, you must have protection from the most vicious of sprains. Ultimately, there are workouts, like using the wobble board, to strengthen your ankles. But, nothing is better than protecting your beloved ankles than with a brace. A brace can absorb any poor landings and keep your ankle from rolling around. 

This article’s purpose is to help you find the best ankle brace for your needs. Some options vary in price and features. Together, let us find you the ideal basketball brace to help you compete at the highest of levels. 

If you want to get back to playing basketball, get our top pick for best basketball ankle braces here.

Our Top Favorite
McDavid Elastic Ankle Brace, Medium
Our Top Runner Up
McDavid Ankle Brace with Lace-Up & Stays, Maximum Support, Comfortable Compression & Breathable Design
Our Top Value Pick
Active Ankle T1 Rigid Ankle Brace For Injured Ankle Protection and Sprain Support, L, White
Ankle Braces
McDavid 511 Compression Ankle Support
McDavid 199 Ankle Brace
Cramer Active Ankle T1
Prime Eligible?
Amazon Prime
Amazon Prime
-
Our Top Favorite
McDavid Elastic Ankle Brace, Medium
Ankle Braces
McDavid 511 Compression Ankle Support
Prime Eligible?
Amazon Prime
Our Top Runner Up
McDavid Ankle Brace with Lace-Up & Stays, Maximum Support, Comfortable Compression & Breathable Design
Ankle Braces
McDavid 199 Ankle Brace
Prime Eligible?
Amazon Prime
Our Top Value Pick
Active Ankle T1 Rigid Ankle Brace For Injured Ankle Protection and Sprain Support, L, White
Ankle Braces
Cramer Active Ankle T1
Prime Eligible?
-

Our Favorites for the Best Basketball Ankle BracesOur Favorites for the Best Basketball Ankle Braces

McDavid 511 Compression Ankle Support

The McDavid 511 Compression Ankle Support may not be the strongest of braces on the market, but they pack a punch nonetheless. First off, McDavid has been known to create products that are long-lasting and durable. To help protect against injury, the McDavid 511 helps athletes get back to basketball after an injury quicker than they ever thought possible. 

In particular, this ankle sleeve covers small tweaks of the ankle. This supports pain from arthritis, tendonitis, and other minor issues that the body may have when playing basketball. The McDavid 511 brace is made from an elastic construction that is free from neoprene allergies. With breathable material, you will be able to thrive with this McDavid ankle brace on. You definitely will not sweat away, but stay free and mobile even in the 4th quarter. 

Additional features include:

  • Increases the flow of blood
  • Reduces any build-up from lactic acid by stabilizing the ankle
  • Limits muscle fatigue by tightly compressing the ankle with its straps
  • Perfect for males and females because the brace takes into account body types
  • Made with an elastic material

What Makes McDavid 511 Ankle Sleeves Unique:

  • Reviewers stay they are extra comfortable
  • McDavid has more experience than any other brand when it comes to ankle sleeves

Why You Should Choose These Ankle Braces:

McDavid Elastic Ankle Brace, Medium
  • Our products will provid in protecting and helping reduct the incidence of injury
  • Supports your return to activity and enhance performance
  • Made using the highest quality and most innovative technology and materials
  • Best for support and relief from pain associated with tendonitis, arthritis and minor injury
  • Breathable non-neoprene knitted elastic construction


Med Spec ASO Ankle Stabilizer

Another best ankle support for basketball shoes comes to us from Med Spec. As a quality Ankle Stabilizer, Med Spec uses figure-eight technology for the best support and protection around. With sensational strength and sturdiness, your ankle boot will live up to expectations. Made of ballistic nylon, it lives up to military standards. Additionally, with an elastic cuff, your laces will not snag on anything when you are playing ball.

There is also a bilateral design for either foot, so the braces work either way. Also, with a low profile, you can fit this brace in any type of basketball shoe. Made in the United States of America, the manufacturing done is in a controlled environment made with you in mind. 

Additional features include:

  • Black and white braces give you color options
  • Comfort to any Achilles injury because of the stabilizer technology 
  • Size ranges from 2X-Small up to 3X-Large
  • Ideal for other sports than basketball
  • Helpful in pain relief

What Makes ASO Ankle Stabilizers Unique:

  • Uses CoolFlex technology with breathable material to keep your ankle from sweating
  • A leading ankle brace company because of its unparalleled durability and the utmost comfort

Why You Should Choose These Ankle Braces:

Sale
Med Spec ASO Ankle Stabilizer, Black, Small
  • Stabilizing Straps form a complete figure-eight to protect and support ankle. Woven elastic cuff closure enhances support and secures laces and stabilizing straps
  • CoolFlex achilles pad and tongue offers comfort and breathability.
  • High quality nylon boot provides superior durability and strength
  • Bilateral design so each size will fit left or right foot and low profile to fit in any type of shoe
  • Each ankle brace is sold separately and is for single patient use only


Our Runners-up for the Best Basketball Ankle BracesThe Runner-Ups for the Best Basketball Ankle Braces

McDavid 199 Ankle Brace

Interested in another best ankle brace for preventing sprains from McDavid? Then, you should consider the 199 version that McDavid has to offer. To start, McDavid created a product that the masses can use. With sizing options from 2X-Small to X-Large, no one is left to dry. 

McDavid prides itself on helping people recover from past ankle injuries, as well as the prevention of new issues that may arise. Additionally, McDavid 199 Ankle Brace uses Supportive U Technology that is flexible enough to give your ankle an amazing range of motion. But, the brace is also strong enough, with the help of steel siding, that you will never have to worry about rolling your ankle again. 

This McDavid brace is also very breathable. With the help of vinyl mesh and a double-layered polyester, the liner will never get gross and sweaty. Even the tongue on the brace is ventilated to keep you focused on playing basketball. 

Because of the maximum support that is offered by this product, know firsthand that the product may not fit in your shoe. With this in mind, make sure that you check the sizing options to make the best choice for you and your basketball career. A size up might be the best bet for you here. Know that the ankle brace should fit snuggly around your ankle for the best results. Even children can use this McDavid 199 Ankle Brace around corresponding children’s shoes. 

Additional features include:

  • Fits on either foot
  • Comes in black or white
  • Made with maximum protection for the ankle to minimize sprains and tears
  • Arch support is sewn in
  • Ideal for post-surgery because the brace is designed for rehab

What Makes McDavid 199 Unique:

  • The company has been in business longer than any other brace business since 1969
  • The company has sold thousands of these McDavid 199 Ankle Brace to consumers

Why You Should Choose These Ankle Braces:

  • For anyone looking to protect against moderate to long-lasting ankle issues
  • Does not use latex in its construction

Sale
McDavid Ankle Brace with Lace-Up & Stays, Maximum Support, Comfortable Compression & Breathable Design
  • COMFORTABLE PROTECTION: McDavid Ankle Brace is the perfect support to help prevent or recover from common ankle injuries and fits over any sock
  • SUPPORTIVE & BREATHABLE DESIGN: Our design simulates athletic tape with laces to support you on and off the fields. With a ventilated tongue, your foot will able to breathe while reaching peak performance
  • DURABLE & MADE TO LAST: Includes spring steel medical stays for solid support throughout the brace to provide unmatched support and durability. Also features reinforced eyelets to a secure fit.
  • FIND THE RIGHT FIT: This ankle brace is intended to fit tightly for the best support. If your measurements are close to the maximum size range, we recommend sizing up for comfort. Fits men & women
  • GAME-CHANGING ADVANCEMENTS: McDavid is the First-On-Last-Off choice for athletes looking to enhance performance, increase protection, and accelerate relief and recovery, striving to be a must-have factor in every athlete's training and competition


Zamst A2-DX Ankle Brace

You may have not heard of Zamst before, but you are about to get acquainted. The Zamst A2-DX Ankle Brace is as strong as they come. Because of its added strength and durability, you need to understand that the price point goes up for this kind of brace. 

With its EXO-GRID Technology, you should expect quality molded supports that create stability for the medial and lateral sides of the ankle. Even with the standard moldings, each brace works for an individualized fit. There is even added comfort and compression that works no matter what shoe size you are. One quick trick on Zamst’s measurements: go a size up if you are in-between sizes.

No matter if you need the left or right ankle protected, this brace works for either side. Additionally, be confident knowing that there will be no rolls or sprains with this fantastic ankle brace. 

As one of the best ankle braces for weak ankles, stellar grip technology allows your ankles to stay in place without you dealing with an outward or inward roll. To help with stability, the X-Strap covers the medial, lateral, and anterior sides of the ankle. Because of this, you can expect the most professional of protections. 

Additional features include:

  • Comes with a carrying case for the brace
  • Comes in white or black
  • Pronation can be reduced with this brace
  • The brace comes with instructions to help with a perfect fit
  • Has Velcro straps for excellent stability

What Makes Zamst A2DX Unique:

  • Zamst has National Basketball Association (NBA) guard Stephen Curry wearing and advertising this product
  • The company is based in California

Why You Should Choose These Ankle Braces:

  • The heavy-duty product still only weighs 7 ounces
  • Braces are used by countless collegiate and professional athletes

Sale
Zamst A2-DX Sports Ankle Brace with Protective Guards For High Ankle Sprains and Chronic Ankle Instability-for Basketball, Volleyball, Lacrosse, Football-Black, Left, Medium
  • Usage and Indications: High ankle sprains (Grade III) & chronic ankle instability, reduces inversion & eversion movements
  • Protective Guards: Stabilization prevents excessive inward and outward movements of the high ankle
  • Dual X-Strap Stabilizer: Provides three-way support (Anterior, Lateral, Media) for the lower ankle
  • Left and Right Specific Design: Designed specifically for each ankle to provide a better fit
  • Rear Application: Enables easy application and adjustment


Our Value Picks for the Best Basketball Ankle BracesThe Value Picks for the Best Basketball Ankle Braces

Cramer Active Ankle T1

Cramer is another super brand that you should trust because they have been around for decades serving athletes of all levels and skills. In colors of black and white, you can use Cramer’s technology to help relieve tension around the ankle. 

With the help of its U-shape make-up, Cramer Active Ankle T1 takes pressure away from the ankle and joint for protection that is unfounded across many companies in this day in age. The bilateral hinge system gives you the best range of motion money can buy. Made of neoprene, this padding will give you the ultimate comfort from game to game. Not only can basketball players use this product, but volleyball and cheerleading can as well. 

Even though the price point is considered higher than most on this list, the brace’s value should be well-taken by you. By giving you enhanced stability, the basketball court will be yours to conquer. While on the basketball floor, you will not even know that the brace is on either. Its comfort is unmatched in the ankle brace market. 

Additional features include:

  • Can purchase sizes from extra small to large
  • Sizing chart works for women, men, and children
  • Braces fit on either foot
  • Comes with fitting instructions
  • Helps to prevent supination due to the stabilization of the brace

What Makes Cramer Active Ankle T1 Braces Unique:

  • Cramer has been in the athletic injury prevention business since 1979
  • Braces help to get athletes back on the court quicker than ever

Why You Should Choose These Ankle Braces:

  • Helps ease chronic issues in the ankle
  • The strapping system keeps ankle snug and sound

Active Ankle T1 Rigid Ankle Brace For Injured Ankle Protection and Sprain Support, L, White
  • T1 Rigid Ankle Braces offer an exceptional level of protection with a high quality dual strapping system
  • Fits left or right foot, and offers maximum performance and protection for sports like volleyball, basketball, football, baseball and softball
  • Solid U-shape design relieves pressure from the ankle joint and provides superior protection
  • Anatomical bilateral hinge allows full foot range of motion up and down, which makes it suitable for sprains and strains
  • Take the time to review the sizing and fitting chart images and videos on this product page to ensure proper fit and performance


No products found.

The last ankle brace on our list comes from Liomor. What Liomor does with its sizing is to mix them. For example, Liomor uses S/M, L/XL, and XL. If you do decide to go with the L/XL, just know that this site is meant for people with a 12-inch arch circumference around the arch of the foot. Nevertheless, regardless of the size, Liomor makes a brace that will not cost you an arm and a leg. 

From this point, it is important to understand the value of ankle support this product brings. With a crisscross strapping system, stabilization and support are essential for Liomor. In turn, your tendons and joints in the ankle will be snug as a bug in the rug. No matter if you have had ankle injuries in the past or are looking to prevent some from happening, Liomor knows what they are doing when it comes to ankle braces.

Even issues like edema and acute injuries are no match for a No products found., which comes in the color black. Because of the superb material Liomor uses, the highly elastic wicking technology will keep your ankles and feet dry, as you drive to the basket. With an inner layer under the main brace, you can expect the coolness to run to your veins, even under the most stressful of situations on the basketball floor. 

Some ankle brace designs just do not make sense, with all the laces and straps confusing an individual. This is not the case for a Liomor brace. The design, which leaves the heel wideopen, allows for movement and motion that is second to none. In turn, this gives great support that will not lose its value with the help of Velcro. 

Additional features include:

  • Can be machine washed or by hand
  • Comes with a 1-year warranty
  • Made of lycra and nylon
  • Material limits any bulkiness 
  • Helps with the recovery of tendonitis

What Makes Liomor Ankle Support Braces Unique:

  • A fresh company that is not set in its ways, allowing focus on the modern-day consumer
  • Concentrates primarily on high school and collegiate athletes

Why You Should Choose These Ankle Braces:

  • Can be used for cross-training, running, and soccer as well as basketball
  • Ankle braces have great adjustability for an individualized fit

No products found.


FAQs on Basketball Ankle Braces

Should Basketball Players Wear Ankle Braces?

There is a lot of debate as to athletes using or not wearing ankle braces. The question of “should basketball players wear ankle braces” gets thrown around a lot in the basketball world. The fact of the matter is that athletes should. But, there is still a stigma around braces being bad for you. Here are the facts.

One of the main claims for not wearing braces is they make your ankles weaker. Because a brace is doing the job your ankle should, it makes sense that the ankle could falter. However, wearing a brace is a game-changer in the sport of basketball. 

By wearing the product game after game, you will prevent future injuries and old flare-ups from happening again. Even though an ankle brace will not completely prevent issues, you will have a great chance of staying safe on the hardwood. Furthermore, people who have had an ankle injury in their past need to wear a brace. Statistics show that an athlete is 5 times as likely to hurt their ankle again in the future after injuring their ankle. This is because the ankle gets weaker. 

Others believe that taping is better than wearing a brace. Taping can be a solid option to protect the ankle. But, a brace can be put on a lot quicker than tape and still give you get stability in half the time. 

What are the Benefits of Wearing Ankle Braces?

There are certainly a plethora of benefits to wearing a brace on your ankle. We could talk all day about the reasons ankle braces are awesome. However, let’s just talk about a few of the top reasons.

Recovery

Individual looks to step their game up need a quality brace. With the perfect balance of pressure and weight, you can strengthen your ankle while playing basketball, even if you are not fully 100%. No matter if you are playing in a game or practicing, a brace should be used during recovery to aid you. Because of this, you will not have to worry about the ankle further damaging itself. Just make sure to talk with a healthcare advisor to help you make the right choice for your ankle brace.

Range of Motion

Too many athletes play with a brace that is so bulky that they cannot move like they once could. Additionally, when the ankle is not moving naturally, scar tissue can build up and start to cause even worse issues in the ankle. There are plenty of braces out there that will not limit your movement, allowing you to have the same explosiveness post-injury. Along with a brace, consider helping your cause with some ankle exercises.

Limit The Swelling 

When an ankle does roll, and remember it still can in a brace, the swelling will be a lot worse if you do not have a brace on. With this in mind, wear a brace whenever you play basketball. Because of the brace, you will be able to heal quicker as well if you roll your ankle. You will even be able to prevent future damage because you protected your ankle from the onset with an ankle brace. 

Since ankle rolls are the most common injury in collegiate sports, it is wise to think the same happens in high school sports and the professional ranks as well. Many coaches and programs expect their athletes to wear ankle braces. You should have the same mindset knowing you could save your ankles from major swelling. 

What Ankle Braces do Top NBA Players Use?

Even though the ordinary individual should be looking for a brace that fits them, many want to know what ankle braces do NBA players use. Stephen Curry, guard of the Golden State Warriors, uses ankle braces because his ankles were keeping him out of games for entire seasons. Other athletes in the NBA use ankle braces, but they are usually personalized and cost a pretty penny. They can afford a price point of hundreds and thousands of dollars. You can pick up the ankle brace Steph Curry uses below:

Sale
Zamst A2-DX Sports Ankle Brace with Protective Guards For High Ankle Sprains and Chronic Ankle Instability-for Basketball, Volleyball, Lacrosse, Football-Black, Right, Medium
  • Usage and Indications: High ankle sprains (Grade III) & chronic ankle instability, reduces inversion & eversion movements
  • Protective Guards: Stabilization prevents excessive inward and outward movements of the high ankle
  • Dual X-Strap Stabilizer: Provides three-way support (Anterior, Lateral, Media) for the lower ankle
  • Left and Right Specific Design: Designed specifically for each ankle to provide a better fit
  • Rear Application: Enables easy application and adjustment

Are Lace-Up Ankle Braces Any Good?

We have talked a lot about strap-based ankles braces, but are lace-up ankle braces good as well? The lace-up ankle braces are some of the most popular. They are an efficient option that gives a secure fit and can ultimately help your entire foot out. 

If you are interested in this type of brace, here are a few things to consider. First, lace-up braces are for people on a budget. Additionally, they should only be for ankle support for the average individual. If you have bad ankles, you should probably be in the business for something even stronger. 

How Do You Protect Your Ankles in Basketball?

There are a few things you can do to protect your ankles when playing basketball. Strength exercises are a good place to start. Do this as a routine every day, so they can hold up if you step on someone’s foot and roll your ankle. Taping and using a brace are also good ways to protect your ankles. Lastly, buy high-top shoes to give you even more security. 

Are There Specific Ankle Braces Better for Plantar Fasciitis?

There are ankle braces that are specifically made for people dealing with the disorder of plantar fasciitis. Some of the best ankles braces in this category are made by Aircast. Check them out for a lightweight brace. 

Aircast AirSport Ankle Support Brace, Left Foot, Medium
  • Intended for active individuals or athletes recovering from Grade I or II ankle sprains, or those who are looking to prevent ankle sprains
  • Provides moderate support and compression utilizing air cell technology, and incorporates a semi-rigid encased shell which delivers stability and comfort.The entire AirSport can be hand washed in lukewarm water with mild soap and air dried
  • Additional compression and stabilization is provided by an ATF (anterior talofibular) cross strap and integral forefoot and shin wraps. Health Concern: Bone & Joint Health
  • Offers support and protection from both inversion and eversion. Strong, coated fabric durable and long lasting
  • Universal design allows the Aircast AirSport Ankle Support Brace to be used by both men and women

How to Choose the Best Basketball Ankle Braces for You

At the end of the day, you know what your body needs, even if you feel a little unsure. Because you know the limits of your body, you also know how far to push your body. When you are looking to find a quality ankle brace, consider the type of support you need and the budget you have. Also, what range of motion do you want to have on the court? With all this in mind, you will be able to buy the right product for you and your lifestyle. 

Summary of the Best Basketball Ankle Braces

To sum up, here are the best basketball ankle braces we looked at today:

Our Top Favorite
McDavid Elastic Ankle Brace, Medium
Our Top Runner Up
McDavid Ankle Brace with Lace-Up & Stays, Maximum Support, Comfortable Compression & Breathable Design
Our Top Value Pick
Active Ankle T1 Rigid Ankle Brace For Injured Ankle Protection and Sprain Support, L, White
Ankle Braces
McDavid 511 Compression Ankle Support
McDavid 199 Ankle Brace
Cramer Active Ankle T1
Prime Eligible?
Amazon Prime
Amazon Prime
-
Our Top Favorite
McDavid Elastic Ankle Brace, Medium
Ankle Braces
McDavid 511 Compression Ankle Support
Prime Eligible?
Amazon Prime
Our Top Runner Up
McDavid Ankle Brace with Lace-Up & Stays, Maximum Support, Comfortable Compression & Breathable Design
Ankle Braces
McDavid 199 Ankle Brace
Prime Eligible?
Amazon Prime
Our Top Value Pick
Active Ankle T1 Rigid Ankle Brace For Injured Ankle Protection and Sprain Support, L, White
Ankle Braces
Cramer Active Ankle T1
Prime Eligible?
-

Remember that protecting your ankles in basketball is key. All the brands from McDavid to Zamst have gone through rigorous testing and have come out on top. Ultimately, this is what businesses want for you. They want you to be successful without having to worry about injuries on the court. Because the last thing you should be worrying about is if your ankle will hold up or not.

With the help of an ankle brace, you will be well on your way to a great pick-up game, season, or playoff match-up. This way, you can stay confident when shooting the rock or guarding the other team’s best player. Best of luck to you and the ankle brace you choose. You will not be disappointed! 

Because you read this post, you may also like our reviews on the best basketball shoes for ankle support and the best basketball shoes for plantar fasciitis.

Hoops Addict
Hoops Addict

Hoops Addict was created to help basketball fans of all ages learn more about the sport and find the best basketball gear to improve their ability to hoop. He has been a huge basketball fan for decades, watching thousands of basketball games through the years to learn the ins and outs of the game.

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