From ankle-breaking crossovers to chasing down rebounds, basketball requires quick cuts and jumps that can lead to rolled ankles. An ankle sprain will have you riding pine instead of running the floor.
Don’t let a twisted ankle sideline your game! We did the legwork reviewing the top ankle braces on the market right now for hoopers. Check out our picks for the best ankle braces for basketball providing stabilization, compression, and injury prevention, from budget-friendly sleeves to rigid supports for recovery. You’ll be back swishing threes and blocking shots in no time.
Top 5 Best Ankle Braces for Basketball in 2023
1. SNEINO Ankle Brace for Women & Men – Best Overall Ankle Brace for Basketball
Founded in 2018, SNEINO has quickly become a popular seller of ankle braces on Amazon due to its focus on comfort, functionality, and listening to customer feedback. The SNEINO Ankle Brace provides adjustable support and stability for ankle sprains, tendonitis, arthritis, plantar fasciitis, and other ankle pain.
- Length: Adjustable
- Material: Neoprene, nylon, elastic, steel springs
- Sport Type: Basketball, volleyball, running, hiking
- Sizing: Measure ankle circumference; available in S/M/L/XL
- Design: Lace-up with Velcro straps and steel springs
- Color: Black and Grey
This one of the best ankle braces for basketball is thoughtfully designed to provide stability and support during basketball while remaining comfortable all day long. The lace-up design with adjustable Velcro straps allows you to customize the compression. The addition of steel springs on both sides enhances stability for lateral movements. Overall, this is an excellent ankle brace option for basketball players needing ankle support.
Expert Score: 95/100
Rating Breakdown:
- Compression: 9/10
- Support: 10/10
- Material Quality: 9/10
- Durability: 9/10
- Comfort: 10/10
- Value for Money: 10/10
Pros
- Provides 360-degree adjustable compression & support
- Stabilizing steel springs for lateral stability
- Breathable, moisture-wicking neoprene
- Alleviates pain from injuries and conditions
- Lace-up design allows custom adjustable fit
Cons
- Not recommended for people with Achilles Tendon surgery
- May feel bulkier with shoes
2. Vinaco Ankle Brace – Best Value for Money Ankle Brace for Basketball
The Vinaco Ankle Brace provides adjustable compression and stability in a lightweight, breathable package. This affordable 2-pack of ankle braces helps stabilize ligaments and prevent re-injury during basketball.
- Length: Adjustable
- Material: Neoprene
- Sport Type: Basketball, football, hiking, running
- Sizing: Measure ankle circumference; available in S/M/L/XL/XXL
- Design: Adjustable wrap with crisscross straps
- Colors: Classic Black, Black, Pink
Vinaco’s ankle brace delivers customizable support and protection for your ankles during basketball. The breathable neoprene material and adjustable wrap design ensures a comfortable fit you can wear all day long. While it may not provide the same elite-level support as higher-end options, this budget brace still stabilizes your ankle well for the price.
Expert Score: 90/100
Rating Breakdown:
- Compression: 9/10
- Support: 9/10
- Material Quality: 8/10
- Durability: 9/10
- Comfort: 9/10
- Value for Money: 10/10
Pros
- Lightweight and breathable
- Adjustable wrap & crisscross straps
- Moisture-wicking neoprene material
- Alleviates pain from injuries
- Budget-friendly 2-pack
Cons
- Doesn’t feel sturdy enough
- Sizing Issues encountered by some users
3. Modvel Ankle Brace – Best Budget Ankle Brace for Basketball
Modvel specializes in comfortable, supportive products for pain relief. The Modvel Ankle Brace provides compression and stabilization in a lightweight sleeve design ideal for basketball.
- Length: Mid-ankle sleeve
- Material: Copper-infused fabric, spandex, nylon
- Sport Type: Basketball, hiking, running, workouts
- Sizing: S-3XL based on shoe size
- Design: Seamless knitted sleeve with reinforced heel
- Color: 11 color options
This ankle sleeve from Modvel is a great pick if you want the injury prevention and pain relief benefits of compression with the freedom of a sleeve. The knitted copper-infused fabric provides stabilization and breathability. It slips on easily yet stays in place all day. For basketball players who don’t need the rigid support of a brace, this sleeve is an excellent alternative.
Expert Score: 90/100
Rating Breakdown:
- Compression: 8/10
- Support: 8/10
- Material Quality: 9/10
- Durability: 9/10
- Comfort: 10/10
- Value for Money: 10/10
Pros
- Seamless compression sleeve design
- Copper-infused for stabilization & odor prevention
- Lightweight, moisture-wicking & breathable
- Provides pain relief for injuries
- Easy to slip on & stays in place
Cons
- Less rigid support compared to some alternatives
- Only hand-wash is suggested
4. Zamst A2-DX Ankle Brace – Best Premium Ankle Brace for Basketball
Zamst is a leader in athletic braces engineered for elite performance and injury prevention. The Zamst A2-DX provides rigid stability for players recovering from ankle sprains or instability.
- Length: Mid-ankle height
- Material: Nylon
- Sport Type: Basketball, football, volleyball, lacrosse
- Sizing: S-XL, left and right specific
- Design: Exo-Grid external supports, X-strap stabilizers
- Color: Black, White
The A2-DX is Zamst’s top ankle brace, providing medical-grade stabilization against inversion, eversion, and rolls. The rigid Exo-Grid structure prevents excessive ankle movements while the X-strap stabilizes the joint. Although expensive, it offers peace of mind for players recovering from injury.
Expert Score: 88/100
Rating Breakdown:
- Compression: 8/10
- Support: 10/10
- Material Quality: 10/10
- Durability: 10/10
- Comfort: 7/10
- Value for Money: 8/10
Pros
- Exo-Grid provides rigid medial & lateral support
- X-strap stabilizes ankle joint
- Anatomical right & left specific fit
- Anti-migration GripTech
- Trusted by elite athletes
Cons
- Expensive price tag
- Restricts mobility somewhat
5. McDavid Ankle Brace – Best Medically Recommended Ankle Brace for Basketball
McDavid is the #1 recommended sports medicine brand by doctors, providing quality braces and support since 1969. The McDavid Ankle Brace delivers adjustable compression and stabilization at an affordable price point.
- Length: Mid-ankle height
- Material: Durable Canvas, Neoprene
- Sport Type: Basketball, football, soccer, volleyball
- Sizing: XS-XL
- Design: Lace-up with figure-6 straps
- Color: Black
This ankle brace from McDavid competes with more expensive braces at a fraction of the price. The adjustable figure-6 straps provide a tape-like level of stabilization and compression. While not as rigid as braces with springs or plastic supports, the snug fit still provides ample support for common basketball ankle injuries.
Expert Score: 85/100
Rating Breakdown:
- Compression: 8/10
- Support: 9/10
- Material Quality: 7/10
- Durability: 8/10
- Comfort: 9/10
- Value for Money: 10/10
Pros
- Adjustable figure-6 straps
- Ventilated tongue
- Padded lining & arch support
- Affordable price
- Trusted sports medicine brand
Cons
- Durability Issues
- Less rigid support than braces with plastic/springs
- Snug fit may feel restrictive initially
Bottom Line
Whether you’re driving the lane or owning the paint, your ankles take a beating every game. Give them the support they need with one of the best ankle braces for basketball we covered.
The adjustable SNEINO brace provides customizable compression and stability. Or splurge on the medically approved Zamst with rigid supports for recovery.
Don’t risk re-injury – brace yourself and your ankles properly for the court. Now get ready to lace up, get back out there, and ball out!
