Discover the 7 best ankle brace for volleyball that will help prevent injuries from happening during high-stress moments like jumping for spikes or diving for saves.
In volleyball, where quick movements, jumps, and sudden stops are the norm, keeping your ankles protected is crucial. That’s where volleyball ankle braces come into play. Whether you’re looking to prevent injury or need extra support after a sprain, ankle braces and volleyball knee pads can make a world of difference on the court.
Check out our reviews of the best volleyball knee pads in the market.
Why volleyball players need ankle braces
Volleyball is an intense sport that puts a lot of pressure on your joints, especially your ankles. With frequent jumps and sharp lateral movements, the risk of ankle injuries, like sprains or twists, is quite high. Volleyball ankle braces help by providing much-needed stability and reducing the chances of injury.
Imagine diving for a dig or making a quick pivot to block a spike—ankle braces ensure that these moves don’t end with a painful sprain. Many professional players wear them not only for post-injury support but as a preventive measure, allowing them to focus on their performance without the fear of injury.
Types of volleyball ankle braces
When it comes to choosing the right volleyball ankle brace, there are several options available. Each type offers a different level of support, depending on your needs.
1. Lace-Up Ankle Braces
Lace-up ankle braces offer customizable support. You can adjust the tightness based on your comfort level, making them a great choice for players who want to fine-tune the fit of their brace.
2. Stirrup Ankle Braces
Stirrup ankle braces provide a firm structure, offering strong support for the sides of your ankle. These are ideal for players recovering from a significant injury, as they stabilize the ankle without limiting movement too much.
3. Soft Ankle Braces
Soft ankle braces are lightweight and offer flexible support, making them perfect for players who want minimal interference with their mobility. They provide just enough compression to keep your ankle secure during play.
4. Rigid Ankle Braces
For maximum support, rigid ankle braces are the go-to option. These braces limit side-to-side movement, which is essential for players recovering from a severe sprain. While they are bulkier, they offer the strongest protection against reinjury.
Top Brands for Volleyball Ankle Braces
If you’re in the market for volleyball ankle braces, here are some of the top brands trusted by athletes:
- ASO ankle stabilizer: known for its strong support and lightweight design.
- McDavid Ankle Brace: Offers a balance of comfort and rigidity for players needing moderate support.
- Zamst A2-DX Ankle Brace: This one is favored by professional athletes for its superior support and durability.
- Shock Doctor Ankle Stabilizer: Great for high-impact sports, offering reliable protection and comfort.
How to Choose the Right Volleyball Ankle Brace
Choosing the right ankle brace is all about finding the right balance between support, comfort, and mobility. If you’re recovering from an injury, you’ll want more rigid support. However, if you’re wearing them for prevention, a more flexible brace that still offers some compression will be your best bet.
Consider your position on the court, too. For example, liberos or setters, who need agility and quick side-to-side movements, may prefer a lighter, more flexible brace, whereas hitters might opt for stronger protection due to their constant jumping and landing.
Benefits of Wearing Volleyball Ankle Braces
Wearing volleyball ankle braces can prevent injuries from happening in the first place, especially during high-stress moments like jumping for spikes or diving for saves. They help stabilize the ankle joint, allowing you to perform with confidence. Ankle braces also aid in recovery, providing the necessary support to heal faster after an injury.
Not only do they protect against re-injury, but ankle braces also boost player confidence. Knowing that your ankles are supported means you can focus on your game instead of worrying about potential injuries.
Features to Look for in Volleyball Ankle Braces
When shopping for volleyball ankle braces, look for the following features:
- Support level: Choose a brace that offers the right amount of support for your needs, whether it’s mild, moderate, or high.
- Breathability: Ensure the brace is made from breathable, moisture-wicking material to keep your ankle cool and dry during intense matches.
- Adjustability: Look for braces with adjustable straps to customize the fit.
- Durability: A high-quality ankle brace should be able to withstand the wear and tear of volleyball practices and games.
7 Best Ankle Brace for Volleyball
Let’s look at some of the best options available today.
1. ASO ankle stabilizer – 1st Best Ankle Brace for Volleyball
Price: $31.88 to $82.94 – Available on Amazon and others online retailers.
The ASO Ankle Stabilizer is one of the most popular ankle braces among volleyball players. Known for its high level of support and durability, it features a lace-up design that allows you to adjust the tightness for a perfect fit. The figure-8 strap configuration provides extra support, making it ideal for players who need strong ankle protection.
Best for: players recovering from an injury or those looking for maximum stability.
Features: adjustable lace-up design, figure-8 straps, breathable material.
2. McDavid 195 Ankle Brace: 2nd Best Ankle Brace for Volleyball
Price: $44.99 to $50.94 – Available on Amazon and the McDavidUSA website.
The McDavid 195 Ankle Brace offers an excellent balance of support and flexibility. With a lightweight design, it doesn’t restrict your mobility but still provides the support needed to prevent ankle injuries. The brace features adjustable straps and a padded lining for comfort.
Best for: Players looking for moderate support without sacrificing agility.
Features: lightweight, adjustable straps, padded lining.
3. Zamst A2-DX ankle brace: 3rd Best Ankle Brace for Volleyball
Price: $69.99 – Available on Amazon and the Zamst website.
The Zamst A2-DX Ankle Brace is one of the best choices for players looking for top-tier protection. It offers maximum stability and is often recommended for players recovering from severe ankle injuries. This brace has a unique design with both internal and external stabilizers to prevent lateral and medial ankle sprains. Many professional athletes trust this brace for its reliability.
Best for: athletes recovering from severe injuries or those prone to frequent ankle sprains.
Features: rigid support, internal and external stabilizers, adjustable fit.
4. Shock Doctor 851 Ultra Wrap Lace Ankle Support: 4th Best Ankle Brace for Volleyball
Price: $38.26 to $44.99 – Available on Amazon and the Shock Doctor website.
The Shock Doctor 851 Ultra Wrap Lace Ankle Support combines lace-up support with a compression wrap for enhanced protection. This brace is excellent for players needing firm support without feeling too restricted. It also includes antimicrobial technology, which helps keep the brace fresh even after long practice sessions.
Best for: Players needing firm support with added compression.
Features: Lace-up design, compression wrap, antimicrobial fabric.
5. Nike Pro Combat Ankle Sleeve: 5th Best Ankle Brace for Volleyball
The Nike Pro Combat Ankle Sleeve is a lightweight, flexible option for players who want a minimal brace that still provides basic support. It’s designed with a compression fit to enhance circulation and reduce swelling, making it great for players looking to prevent injuries without wearing a bulky brace.
Best for: Players seeking minimal support for injury prevention.
Features: compression fit, lightweight design, moisture-wicking material.
6. Mizuno DXS2 Ankle Brace: 6th Best Ankle Brace for Volleyball
The Mizuno DXS2 Ankle Brace is a trusted name in volleyball for its ability to combine comfort with reliable ankle support. It features three levels of support with adjustable straps, providing a customized fit for every player. Its lightweight and flexible design ensures that you can move freely while still protecting your ankle.
Best for: players needing adjustable, comfortable support.
Features: lightweight, adjustable straps, multi-level support.
7. Ultra Zoom: 7th Best Ankle Brace for Volleyball
Ultra Zoom is one of the top ankle braces for volleyball on our list, thanks to its innovative hinged-cuff technology. This design not only offers protection against lateral or “low” ankle sprains but also helps prevent high-ankle sprains, making it a versatile choice for athletes. It provides exceptional comfort and support by using your body heat to create a custom fit, adapting perfectly to your ankle. If you’re looking to speed up this form-fitting process, you can use a hairdryer at home. The brace enables natural movement while limiting excessive motions that could lead to injury, helping you stay on the court longer and play more confidently without the fear of losing time to ankle injuries.
How to Wear and Maintain Your Volleyball Ankle Braces
Proper fit is crucial when it comes to ankle braces. Make sure they fit snugly around your ankle without being too tight. Always follow the manufacturer’s sizing chart, and if you’re in between sizes, go for the larger one.
To maintain your volleyball ankle braces, clean them regularly by hand-washing with mild soap and air-drying them to avoid damage. Inspect them periodically for any wear or tear to ensure they continue providing adequate support.
FAQs about volleyball ankle braces
Do volleyball ankle braces really work?
Yes, volleyball ankle braces are highly effective in preventing injuries and providing support for players with weak or recovering ankles. They help stabilize the joint and reduce the likelihood of sprains during fast movements.
What’s the best type of ankle brace for volleyball?
It depends on your needs. If you’re recovering from a severe injury, the Zamst A2-DX and Ultra Zoom provides maximum support. For more moderate protection, the ASO Ankle Stabilizer or McDavid 195 is a great choice. If you’re looking for minimal support, the Nike Pro Combat Ankle Sleeve is lightweight and comfortable.
How tight should volleyball ankle braces be?
Your ankle braces should be tight enough to provide support but not so tight that they restrict blood flow or cause discomfort. You should be able to move freely while still feeling secure.
Can I wear ankle braces for prevention even without an injury?
Yes, many players wear ankle braces as a preventive measure. This can help reduce the risk of injury, especially if you’re prone to ankle sprains or frequently make sudden, sharp movements on the court.
Do ankle braces weaken your ankles over time?
No, wearing ankle braces doesn’t weaken your ankles. In fact, they provide added stability and can help you avoid further injuries. However, it’s important to balance brace use with exercises that strengthen your ankle muscles to ensure overall stability.
By choosing the right volleyball ankle braces, you’re investing in your safety and performance on the court. Whether you’re recovering from an injury or looking for preventive support, ankle braces are a must-have for any serious volleyball player.
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