Love jogging but hate the foot pain that can come with it? If you're a runner, extra strain is placed on your feet and ankles. Ankle braces were designed to ensure proper support and stabilization, which prevents injuries and helps you recover from them.
Gone are the days when ankle braces meant bulky, cast-like wraps! For example, the McDavid's Ankle Brace has a hybrid design that supports your ankle without being obtrusive. Check out our top 10 for the rest of our favorites, and read through our buying guide to help you pick a supportive brace.
Quick List - Top Ankle Braces for Running
I am the manager and head personal trainer for a local fitness facility. I graduated from college with my bachelor's in Exercise Science and have been in the industry for the past 5 years since. I am super passionate about fitness and how our bodies work!
mybest US' editing team consists of experienced members who have backgrounds in writing, editing, translation, and more. We are dedicated to researching what makes a product or service the best to users in the US in order to create top-quality articles. From skincare, to kitchen appliances, and to DIY supplies, our mission is to find the best ones for you.
The expert oversees the Buying Guide only, and does not determine the products and services featured.
Every mybest article is crafted with hours of in-depth research and interviews with experts. Each month, we are continually expanding our database of products based on our research. By emphasizing user insight and reliable information, we deliver trustworthy content to readers.
If you don't know what kind of ankle brace will meet your needs, check out the buying guide below. Some people need support to prevent future injuries, while others require stability when recovering from a sprain.
You can also find ankle braces to address foot pain caused by plantar fasciitis (an inflammation of the fibrous tissue along the bottom of your foot). Keep reading for more considerations and tips!
These are the common types of ankle braces for running, and they offer different levels of comfort, protection, support, and stability. You'll find sleeves, lace-ups, and hybrid braces.
A compression sleeve is considered the most straightforward ankle brace due to the lack of straps or laces. It is also very comfortable and flexible! The sleeve is typically one straight form or design without attachments or "corners" that could scratch or cause discomfort during use.
Ankle support sleeves are lightweight and can fit underneath socks without being too bulky. (They look like an upgraded version of regular athletic socks.) One crucial advantage with compressions sleeves is that you still get a full range of motion.
Sleeve braces don't offer the highest level of support or protection from injury while running. This type of brace is recommended for beginners that wish to add a bit of stability as they venture into the sport.
Compression sleeves are often used for speeding up recovery time by reducing swelling or inflammation. These braces can boost blood circulation in your ankles and feet while you run.
When choosing a particular sleeve brace for a minor sprain, check the product description to see if the material has compression capabilities to address injuries. Some sleeves have added padding at the sides of the ankle for more stability.
Breathability is important, at least for me. While running, the last thing you want to worry about is a bogged down, hot foot that you can feel sweating. Ew, right? Choose an ankle brace that is breathable and running friendly, specifically. Make sure when shopping for one, you type in "running ankle braces" so that you don't get a regular one.
Lace-ups are known to provide optimal stability due to their tight-locked setup. Lace-up ankle braces are highly popular among athletes who require maximum running stability, like basketball players, football players, and boxers.
The downside of lace-ups is wearing and removing the brace; you need to spend some time tying and untying the laces to get the right fit. An alternative to laces are strapped braces. You can get ankle support braces with Velcro or wrap-around straps to make the adjustment much easier.
One thing to note about straps is the possibility of constricting your range of movement. There are ankle brace designs where the strap is inserted through a plastic hoop before being attached. This hoop can get in the way as you move, depending on where it's placed.
Check to see if any added pieces, such as hoops, locks, or Velcro padding, are located near the pivot area of your ankle and foot where bending occurs. Ideally, these items should be higher up on your ankle to prevent discomfort.
You can also get hybrid ankle braces; these provide stability, compression, and a full range of motion. There are minimal accessories and unnecessary parts to this ankle brace, too, unlike other styles that can limit your movement or add extra weight during a run.
There are hybrid ankle braces with a few laces on the top foot area but are locked with a Velcro strap. The material is often breathable and flexible, like a compression sleeve.
You can expect more customization with a hybrid ankle brace, as almost all crucial sections (the foot, ankle, and upper ankle are) are adjustable to your needs. Some even have attachable support straps for a more targeted approach to compression and stability.
You also want to think about the material since people have varying preferences on the feel of the fabric on their skin. Furthermore, an ankle brace must use a breathable material that can endure frequent washing, whether by hand or machine, since it can get sweaty during a run.
Since there's material wrapped around your ankle, sweat can build up in your shoes while you run. Ankle braces made with materials such as neoprene, nylon, or urethane let your foot breathe while still offering support.
You can also check for moisture-wicking and anti-odor features on an ankle brace. These are more comfortable since they keep your feet feeling fresh as you run.
On top of breathability, the materials used also need to be checked to ensure that you aren't allergic to them. Those allergic to neoprene or latex could experience rashes or skin irritation when using a brace with said materials.
While many ankle braces can be popped into the washing machine after use, some materials can get overstretched and lose their support capabilities. This is especially true for compression sleeves.
So, check the recommended washing instructions, and make sure those instructions suit your lifestyle. For example, not everyone has the time to handwash laundry! Reviews will also report if the material gets stretched or retains its design after multiple washings.
The best ankle braces offer medical-grade compression and can treat injuries or sprains. These also help to prevent future ones from occurring.
By getting an ankle brace that's FDA-approved and uses medical-grade materials, you can run assured that the fabrics' quality won't give up along the way or make you feel like you can't rely on it for support.
Top-notch ankle braces are more durable and, therefore, worthwhile. You won't need to keep purchasing new ones because they've changed shape after a wash or the silicone padding broke after frequent use.
Your ankle brace requirements will vary depending on your needs, whether you run to keep fit or are prepping for a marathon. You might also be dealing with existing conditions such as plantar fasciitis. The terrain where you run matters as well since rough ground increases the risk of sprains.
There are typically three levels of protection provided by ankle braces. The lowest or first level is for general use, compression, minor pain relief, and swelling prevention. Ankle sleeves fall into this category.
If you're addressing minor or moderate injuries or have more sensitive ankles prone to sprains, then moderate protection (level two) is recommended. Lastly, if you will be doing strenuous running for extended periods and require maximum support and stability, consider a hybrid brace or a product with level three protection.
Level three braces also address major injuries by safely allowing you to get some activity during the healing process. You can head on over to the reviews to determine how much support a particular ankle brace provides while retaining the flexibility of movement for your running needs.
Selecting the right protection level of the brace will be important for those who are just coming off from an injury. There are certain ankle braces that help the healing process, but specific running ankle braces are not designed to do that. They are designed to help support your ankle joint that may be weak, sometimes after an injury has occurred.
Products | Image | Click to purchase | Key features | |
---|---|---|---|---|
1 | McDavid Ankle Brace | ![]() | A Multi-Sport Hybrid Ankle Brace | |
2 | Powerlix Ankle Brace Compression Support Sleeve | ![]() | Compression Ankle Support for Ultimate Pain Relief | |
3 | Gonicc Professional Foot Sleeve Pair | ![]() | A Compression Sleeve With Stabilizing Support Straps | |
4 | Med Spec ASO Ankle Stabilizer | ![]() | A Multi-Sized Hybrid Ankle Brace Support | |
5 | Bodyprox Ankle Support Brace | ![]() | A Non-Slip Ankle Support With an Open Heel | |
6 | Sparthos Ankle Compression Socks | ![]() | Compression Sleeves Perfect for Any Situation | |
7 | Zamst A2-DX Strong Ankle Brace | ![]() | A Brace to Prevent Rolling Your Ankle | |
8 | Shock Doctor Compression Ankle Brace | ![]() | Ankle Brace With Easy Customization and Plenty of Support | |
9 | Sneino Ankle Brace | ![]() | Ankle Brace That Provides Stabilization as Your Run | |
10 | The Coldest Water The Coldest Flexible Ankle Ice Pack | ![]() | Recover More Quickly With a Cold Brace |
This ankle brace provides optimal support for runners. Its design prevents injury, but it can also protect your ankle post-surgery or after injury. Whether you're running to play ball or prepping for a marathon, this brace will keep your ankles snug and protected.
Critical reviews mentioned that the size runs small, especially for men. A few users also noted that the elastic around the top of the foot area could hurt after a while, and they suggested wearing extra padding or a wrap underneath.
Many reviewers shared that this was one of the best ankle braces on the market for stability and protection. Those who used it with a sprain were relieved they could get around with minimal pain. The brace needs about a week of breaking in, and then it becomes soft and comfortable.
Try this compression sleeve for extra support when dealing with foot pain, Achilles tendonitis, or plantar fasciitis while also improving blood circulation around your feet. The breathable fabric keeps your feet dry and minimizes odor. It's comfortable like a sock, but it does so much more.
A few reviewers found the top area of the sleeve to be too constricting on their lower leg. It tended to bunch up, too, during strenuous activities. Those that bought this to address more severe foot issues didn't feel much support.
However, many reviewers who suffer from swelling or inflammation due to past injury found relief by wearing the sleeves. It's easy to wear under socks and isn't bulky in their shoes. Those that are constantly on their feet highly recommend this product!
This ankle support has fewer obtrusive parts, which makes running more comfortable. It's a compression sleeve with an additional strap for support, so your full range of motion won't be compromised. The product helps with foot pain, swelling, and post-injury recovery, too.
A few reviewers mentioned that the Velcro straps should be placed and removed carefully on the sleeves since the wrong positioning can cause it to unravel. Some also found that the stitching at the top tends to come apart after continued use.
Those who used this support during sports with a lot of running and ankle impact, like soccer, said that it provided ample support without restricting their movement. Reviewers used it to reduce swelling or after an injury and noted that it was comfortable to wear.
It might look complicated to wear, but users have confirmed this ankle brace support doesn't take much time to customize to your foot. It also fits most shoes without being too bulky. Meanwhile, the laces, wrap-around strap, and figure-eight stabilizing straps ensure support and stabilization.
The item cannot be returned, which disappointed those who got the wrong size. It's eligible for a refund, though. It runs large, and reviewers advised studying the sizing chart carefully or reading through the product details to confirm the fit.
On a positive note, many reviewers shared that the brace feels great. They experienced decent motion and comfort. Doctors and physical therapists recommend this ankle brace for post-injury recovery, too.
This ankle support was designed with flexibility and mobility in mind. The open heel gives you a full range of movement while you run, and it's lightweight enough to be worn in most shoes. Meanwhile, the silicone gel on the inside of the strap offers a better grip to prevent injury.
The wavy silicone pattern can create an imprint on the ankle area, as highlighted by a few reviewers. Some also had difficulty removing the brace due to the Velcro latching too strongly.
Many liked that the brace was adjustable to their foot size, and they found it comfortable to wear. It provided relief from plantar fascitis and additional support throughout the day. Reviewers also successfully used it to recover from a sprained ankle.
Whether it's walking to work, running a trail, or working out at the gym, these discreet compression sleeves have got your back (and feet). These ankle supports were designed to boost blood flow to your feet, bringing pain relief and comfort as you engage in any activity.
The sizing runs large, and a few reviewers advise getting a size down or studying the sizing chart carefully. Others took some time to get used to the compression sleeves as there were parts, such as the seam, that could dig in on their insole.
Those who used the ankle support noted less pain. Reviewers aid that it's comfortable to wear and doesn't restrict motion. The compression sleeves reduced swelling and inflammation, too, which pleased many reviewers.
If you are recovering from moderate to severe injuries, this brace will help you stay active. It may look bulky, but it is surprisingly flexible! Plus, it has plenty of straps for ample stabilization. There are different models for left and right feet, and the company recommends sizing up if you're in between sizes.
A few reviewers had trouble assembling the brace, noting that it may take a couple of tries to get the right positioning. However, many reviewers commented this was one of the best braces for ankle sprains. It doesn't have any uncomfortable or protruding parts, and it provides great stability.
The beauty with lace ankle braces is their customization. You can make it as tight as you'd like! This particular one offers "level-three" support features, which means it has stability, support, compression, alignment, and healing capabilities. So, you can engage in sports while recovering from a moderate or severe injury.
A few reviewers got annoyed that the laces are too long and can get in the way if not tucked in. Some weren't satisfied with the material and had difficulty wearing and removing the brace.
Overall, reviewers commented that the brace was very durable, lasting years with continued use. It's surprisingly lightweight and comfortable to wear, too. Those who had injuries liked that they could adjust the sections of the laces depending on their needs.
Whether you're doing your daily run or sprinting across a football field, this ankle brace stabilizes your movement to prevent injury while relieving existing pain. It has two spring bars on the left and right side of the ankle area for increased stabilization.
A few reviewers mentioned that the Velcro wrap-around straps unraveled with continued use. Others had issues with the wrong size. On a positive note, this is one of the few sellers that accept returns and exchanges.
Many reviewers noted that the brace was very comfortable to wear and provided great lateral ankle and heel support. Those who used it for recovery were able to get some movement and activity thanks to this brace!
Since running puts pressure on your feet and ankles, recovery is essential to keep your muscles in optimal condition and avoid future injury. This ankle brace was designed to provide cold compression therapy to relieve soreness, injuries, or sprains. Plus, you can easily adjust the fit with the Velcro straps.
According to a few reviewers, the ice packs broke easily at the seams, so they recommended cautious handling. The packs also freeze solid, and you will have to wait a bit before wrapping the product on your foot.
Many reviewers had no issues with the brace's fit and noted the ice pack stays cold longer than advertised. They said that it relieves swelling and Achilles' pain, too. People also liked the effective placement of the ice packs.
In addition to reviewing and commenting on our buying guide, Gentry also took the time to answer a commonly asked question about ankle braces.
"It depends on how weak your ankles are," Gentry explains. "I would not recommend wearing one every time you run. I suggest that if you have weak ankles, wear one for a short period of time (such as a month or two) and try to wean off of it. If you run three times a week, try running one of those times without it and then more once your ankle becomes stronger."
Looking for ways to get the most out of your workouts? Check out some of our favorite running essentials!
This expert reviewed the contents of the buying guide for accuracy and provided factual corrections when necessary, as well as extra tips and advice. They did not participate in the product selection process, nor are they affiliated with any of our choices unless explicitly stated so.
No. 1: McDavid|Ankle Brace
No. 2: Powerlix|Ankle Brace Compression Support Sleeve
No. 3: Gonicc|Professional Foot Sleeve Pair
No. 4: Med Spec|ASO Ankle Stabilizer
No. 5: Bodyprox|Ankle Support Brace
View Full RankingThe descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.
Health
Beauty
Home goods
Home electronics
PC
Camera
Food and drinks
Kitchen
Fashion
Accessories
Kids and baby
Interior
Hobbies
Outdoor
Home, garden, and tools
Sports and fitness
Pets
Media
Games
Apps
Automotive
Gifts
Mobile devices