Volleyball may look graceful, but it can wreak havoc on ankles. Between aggressive jumps, quick direction changes, and hard landings, ankles take a beating.
But don’t bench yourself yet! We did the digging to find the best ankle braces for volleyball that provide serious support without limiting your killer moves on the court. From straightforward sleeves to elaborate hinged designs, we lined up the contenders and spiked away the duds.
Check out our definitive braces bracket and get ready to be back in the game with the right ankle armor!
Top 5 Best Ankle Braces for Volleyball
1. Sleeve Stars Ankle Brace for Women & Men – Best Overall
Sleeve Stars offers one of the best ankle braces for volleyball designed to provide relief from various foot and ankle issues. This adjustable brace comes with a support strap for added compression and stabilization.
- Length: 10 inches
- Material: Latex-free
- Sport Type: Multi-sport, including volleyball
- Sizing: One size fits most
- Design: Sleeve with velcro support strap
- Color: 14 different colors
This ankle brace from Sleeve Stars provides excellent targeted compression to aid recovery from injuries and conditions like Achilles tendonitis and plantar fasciitis. The adjustable strap allows you to customize the level of compression. The lightweight, moisture-wicking fabric keeps your ankle comfortable even during intense volleyball games and other activities.
Moreover, the Sleeve Stars Ankle brace offers great value for the price. It provides relief and support without restricting your movement. The simple sleeve design slips on easily yet stays secure. This is an excellent choice for volleyball players looking to prevent ankle injuries or manage existing ankle issues.
Expert Score: 91/100
Rating Breakdown:
- Compression: 9/10
- Support: 9/10
- Material Quality: 9/10
- Durability: 9/10
- Comfort: 9/10
- Value for Money: 10/10
Pros
- Provides excellent compression & blood flow
- Adjustable strap for support
- Moisture-wicking & breathable
- Helps with recovery & injury prevention during volleyball
- Snug fit stays in place during activity
Cons
- Not recommended for pro players
2. Z ATHLETICS Zenith Ankle Brace – Best Versatile
The Zenith ankle brace from Z Athletics provides adjustable support and pain relief for various ankle injuries. This lace-up brace contours to the ankle while allowing customized tightness.
- Length: Varies on sizes
- Material: Neoprene exterior with nylon lining
- Sport Type: Multi-sport, ideal for volleyball
- Sizing: S, M, L
- Design: Lace-up with adjustable straps
- Color: Black, White
This ankle brace excels at stabilizing the ankle and preventing re-injury during intense sports like volleyball. The combination of laces and straps lets you dial in the right level of compression and support. The neoprene retains heat while wicking moisture, helping recovery. The quality materials ensure durability even with regular use.
Also, the Zenith brace provides exceptional stability and pain relief without restricting motion. It’s easy to put on and take off and stays securely in place during activity. This brace is highly recommended for volleyball players recovering from ankle injuries or looking to prevent them.
Expert Score: 90/100
Rating Breakdown:
- Compression: 10/10
- Support: 10/10
- Material Quality: 9/10
- Durability: 9/10
- Comfort: 8/10
- Value for Money: 8/10
Pros
- Fully adjustable compression & support
- Contours ankle for stability
- Neoprene retains heat
- Moisture-wicking interior
- Durable double-stitched construction
Cons
- Can get hot during prolonged wear
- Can feel bulky
3. SNEINO Ankle Brace for Women & Men – Best Value for Money
The SNEINO ankle brace provides adjustable 360-degree support and stability for ankle injuries. This lace-up brace has a unique design with stabilizer straps and steel springs for extra reinforcement.
- Length: Adjustable
- Material: Neoprene, nylon, elastic, steel springs
- Sport Type: Multi-sport, ideal for volleyball
- Sizing: S, M, L, XL
- Design: Lace-up with adjustable straps and steel springs
- Color: Black and Grey
This brace excels at protecting vulnerable ankles during intense volleyball games. The adjustable laces and straps allow you to customize compression. The steel springs add stability while still allowing a full range of motion. The moisture-wicking interior keeps your ankle comfortable.
Overall, the SNEINO brace provides exceptional stabilization and pain relief without restricting natural movement. It has a very thoughtful design to accommodate different foot shapes. This is a top choice for volleyball players recovering from ankle injuries or looking to avoid them.
Expert Score: 88/100
Rating Breakdown:
- Compression: 9/10
- Support: 9/10
- Material Quality: 9/10
- Durability: 9/10
- Comfort: 8/10
- Value for Money: 9/10
Pros
- 360-degree adjustable compression & support
- Stabilizer straps & steel springs for reinforcement
- Moisture-wicking and breathable interior
- Accommodates different foot shapes
- Provides stability without restricting motion
Cons
- Not recommended for people with Achilles Tendon surgery
- May feel bulkier with shoes
4. Zamst A2-DX Sports Ankle Brace – Best Premium Support
The Zamst A2-DX ankle brace provides rigid support and protection for recovery from severe ankle sprains. This hinged brace has exterior guards to prevent inversion/eversion and interior X-straps for multi-directional stability.
- Length: Mid-ankle height
- Material: Nylon
- Sport Type: Volleyball, Basketball, football, lacrosse
- Sizing: S-XL, left and right specific
- Design: Exo-Grid external supports, X-strap stabilizers
- Color: Black, White
This brace excels at protecting vulnerable ankles during intense volleyball games after injury. The rigid guards act like an exoskeleton to prevent re-injury. The X-straps enhance stability in all directions. It has an anatomically contoured fit and anti-slip lining.
Overall, the Zamst A2-DX provides exceptional protection and stabilization for ankles recovering from severe sprains. It has a very rigid, robust design tailored for high-impact sports. This would be ideal for a volleyball player coming back from a bad ankle sprain.
Expert Score: 85/100
Rating Breakdown:
- Compression: 8/10
- Support: 10/10
- Material Quality: 9/10
- Durability: 9/10
- Comfort: 7/10
- Value for Money: 8/10
Pros
- Rigid exterior guards prevent ankle rolls
- X-straps enhance multi-directional stability
- Anatomically contoured fit
- Anti-slip lining
- Robust protection from re-injury
Cons
- Expensive
- Restricts ankle mobility
- Can be bulky and hot
5. ZOUYUE Ankle Brace for Sprains – Best Economical
ZOUYUE offers a high-quality ankle brace designed to provide stability, support, and pain relief for various ankle injuries and conditions. This adjustable lace-up brace has reinforced side stabilizers for protection.
- Length: Varies according to sizes
- Thickness: Lightweight neoprene and nylon
- Material: Neoprene exterior with breathable nylon lining
- Sport Type: Multi-sport, ideal for volleyball
- Sizing: S, M, L, XL
- Design: Lace-up with X-strap stabilizer
- Color: Black, Grey, Khaki
This ZOUYUE ankle brace provides excellent stability and support during intense games thanks to its thoughtful design. The X-strap stabilizer enhances protection while the side stabilizers prevent rolling. The adjustable laces allow you to customize compression. The lightweight, moisture-wicking materials enhance comfort.
Overall, this brace offers exceptional support and pain relief without limiting natural ankle motion. It fits securely while accommodating foot swelling. The quality materials ensure durability for regular athletic use. This is a top choice for volleyball players seeking to prevent injury or manage ankle pain.
Expert Score: 85/100
Rating Breakdown:
- Compression: 9/10
- Support: 8/10
- Material Quality: 8/10
- Durability: 9/10
- Comfort: 8/10
- Value for Money: 9/10
Pros
- X-strap and side stabilizers enhance support
- Adjustable compression & stabilization
- Lightweight, breathable & moisture-wicking
- Accommodates foot swelling
- Allows natural ankle movement
Cons
- Difficult to wear
- Can be more comfortable
Bottom Line
Whether you’re a pro baller or weekend warrior, protecting your ankles is crucial. Use our picks for the top 5 best ankle braces for volleyball to keep your ankles supported and avoid painful sprains.
With the right brace, you can drive the lane, bury jumpers, and own the court with confidence. Get after it this season with an ankle brace that matches your game!