10 Best Ankle Sleeves For Running (Top Braces, Support and Wraps)
While giving your muscles a good stretch before a run and investing in a good pair of running shoes is essential to keep your feet and ankles protected, investing in the best ankle braces for running will ensure better protection. If you are already suffering from ankle pain and are finding it difficult to cross the finish line, getting ankle support becomes even more crucial to stabilize your ankle and to avoid further damage. Wearing the ankle braces also helps to reduce the impact on ankles and knees, especially for trail runners.
However, selecting the best ankle brace for running can be confusing simply because of the plethora of options that you have in the market. To make it easier for you, in this guide, we will discuss the pros and cons of some of the top-selling ankle support runners that will offer maximum support no matter how rigorously you train. These best ankle support for runners also helps in recovering from injuries if you have already sprained your ankle or are suffering from Achilles tendonitis. We have shortlisted our picks on the basis of design, comfort, compression, support, and several other factors. So let’s go through the features of each of these ankle braces to find the most suitable pair for you.
At A Glance
- Best Ankle Braces For Running With Ankle Pain – Zenith Ankle Brace
- Best Ankle Support For Runners with a Sprained Ankle – McDavid Ankle Brace
- Best Trail Running Ankle Support – Med Spec ASO Ankle Stabilizer
- Best Support Runners For Achilles Tendonitis – Pro-Tec Athletics Premium Achilles Tendon Support
Table of Content
- Comparison Table
- 10 Best Ankle Braces for Running
- McDavid Ankle Brace For Ankle Sprains
- Zenith Ankle Brace, Lace Up Adjustable Support – For Running, Injury Recovery, Sprain
- POWERLIX Ankle Brace Compression Support Sleeve for Injury Recovery, Joint Pain, and More
- SB SOX Compression Ankle Brace For Sprained Ankle and Achilles Tendon Support
- Med Spec ASO Ankle Stabilizer
- Pro-Tec Athletics Premium Achilles Tendon Support
- Zensah Ankle Support for Running, Soccer, Volleyball, Sports
- Cotill’s Neoprene Breathable Adjustable Ankle Brace
- Neo G Ankle Brace, Figure of 8 Strap – Adjustable Compression
- Liomor Ankle Support Breathable Ankle Brace for Basketball Running Ankle Sprain
- How Do I Know If I Need an Ankle Brace?
- Buying Guide: How To Select An Ankle Support?
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Conclusion
Comparison Table For Best Ankle Braces For Running
10 Best Ankle Braces for Running
1. McDavid Ankle Brace For Ankle Sprains
 |
Check price on Amazon |
The first model that we want to feature is McDavid’s MD 195, which is one of the most popular ankle support runners in the market today. McDavid is known for producing excellent sports protection gear that offers a perfect blend of prevention and protection without hampering the performance. The MD 195 also follows the league by featuring a supportive design with a figure-6 strapping system that simulates an athletic tape. It offers adjustable customization without the need to unlace or remove your shoes. Made of single-layer polyester fabric, this best ankle support for running offers full support with minimal weight. The padded lining and reinforced closures ensure a comfortable fit. The laces and strap secure and protect your ankle, while the breathable ventilated tongue ensures comfort.
The MD 195 is said to be one of the best ankle support for runners that prevents and helps athletes recover from common ankle sprains. It offers Level 3 maximum support for moderate to major instabilities, proactive prevention, as well as post-surgical joint protection. In fact, as per an independent study, athletes had three times fewer injuries while wearing McDavid’s MD 195. This ankle brace for running is sold as a single unit and is not left or right ankle specific.
Pros
|
Cons
|
2. Zenith Ankle Brace, Lace Up Adjustable Support – For Running, Injury Recovery, Sprain
 |
Check price on Amazon |
If you want to invest in the best ankle braces for running that will last, you should consider the ankle support runners from Zenith. Made of high-quality nylon and neoprene, this best ankle support for running offers good stabilization and subtle compression to the muscles and joints. It soothes the pain and boosts blood circulation in the affected area for quicker healing. Yet, it is thin and soft enough to offer comfort. The figure-8 strap also helps to immobilize the foot without restricting the ability to walk or run comfortably. The fabric of the Zenith ankle brace with double stitched seams is sturdy, lightweight, and also breathable. The slim design fits comfortably in your running shoes, and the front lace can be adjusted as per your comfort.
This brace is also the best ankle brace for running after a sprain that is proven to reduce or eliminate ankle pain caused by tendonitis and other acute injuries. The Zenith ankle brace is engineered to perform well during different sports activities such as volleyball, hiking, basketball, running, soccer, etc. The bilateral design can fit in both left and right foot. Plus, these best running ankle support are also available in different sizes so that you can easily find your perfect fit.
Pros
|
Cons
|
3. POWERLIX Ankle Brace Compression Support Sleeve for Injury Recovery, Joint Pain, and More
 |
Check price on Amazon |
People with too thin or too thick ankles often struggle to find a pair of ankle support runners that fits perfectly. To fill this gap, POWERLIX offers the best ankle sleeve for running that snuggly fits on your ankles and applies even pressure across the joint to offer ultimate pain relief. Whether you are suffering from plantar fasciitis, sprain, swelling, tendonitis, muscle fatigue, or acute ankle pain, this pair of best ankle compression sleeve for running will help you tackle any of these conditions with much ease. The POWERLIX ankle brace is not just apt for running but also ensures ankle stability for a number of sports activities such as baseball, basketball, soccer, hiking, golf, etc. These best ankle braces offer excellent support without hampering your range of leg motion. Made of tight yet breathable compression fabric, these supporters help to improve your blood circulation and at the same time absorb sweat to keep your feet dry and odor-free. Also, a six-month guarantee is offered by the manufacturer.
Pros
|
Cons
|
4. SB SOX Compression Ankle Brace For Sprained Ankle and Achilles Tendon Support
 |
Check price on Amazon |
For those looking for an affordable pair of the best ankle sleeve for running, the SB SOX compression ankle brace is a good option to promote recovery, reduce injury, and ensure ankle mobility. Priced under $10, this best ankle support for runners is not too bulky or too tight and fits just right. Made of light and breathable fabric like nylon and spandex, the SB SOX offers the right compression to boost blood circulation in case of an ankle injury and also prevents the build-up of lactic acid.
The no-slip top and bottom cuffs provide excellent grip and also make it easier to take the ankle braces on and off. This pair is also the best ankle brace for running with peroneal tendonitis as it offers optimum ankle support and alleviates pain during different forms of physical activity. So whether you are into cycling, running, fitness workouts, golfing, tennis, etc., having a pair of SB SOX will offer stability as well as mobility to your ankles. Available in four different sizes, this best ankle support for running can fit a wide range of foot circumference. It is also extremely skin-friendly, so you need not worry about irritated or itchy skin due to excessive sweating.
Pros
|
Cons
|
5. Med Spec ASO Ankle Stabilizer
 |
Check price on Amazon |
If you are trying to prevent an ankle injury or are recovering from an injury, the Med Spec ASO ankle stabilizer is one of the most recommended ankle support runners by athletic trainers, orthopedics, and therapists. Featuring a figure-8 stabilizing strap and a laced-up top, this brace offers the best protection and support to runners, which also makes it the best trail running ankle support.
Several athletes prefer this ankle brace as it offers the perfect blend of comfort, support, and durability. Made of lightweight CoolFlex material, the boot, along with the contoured tongue, provides exceptional fit and comfort for long-distance runs. The elastic cuff also keeps the laces and the stabilizing strap in place, thus making it the best ankle brace for trail running and for jumping over trail obstacles. The breathable material also lines the inside of the boot to offer more comfort to the Achilles area.
Another reason why this model made it to our list of best ankle braces for running is that the Med Spec ASO can be worn over the sock, so those with sensitive skin, need not worry about its material rubbing against their skin. This trail running ankle support is sold as a single piece and comes with a bilateral design, so you don’t need to worry about ordering the wrong foot. Since this ankle brace for trail running is manufactured in the USA, it meets high-quality control standards.
Pros
|
Cons
|
6. Pro-Tec Athletics Premium Achilles Tendon Support
 |
Check price on Amazon |
The Pro-Tec Achilles tendon support is probably one of the most ordinary-looking ankle support, which does its job pretty well. It is its very minimalistic design that has earned it a place in our best ankle brace for running. Achilles tendonitis is a fairly common injury amongst runners that leads to inflammation or pain in the Achilles tendon, which connects the calf muscles to the heel.
The Pro-Tec Achilles tendon support has contoured EVA pad-shaped foam to surround and protect the Achilles tendon from injury during walking on uneven surfaces or running. These ankle braces offer the best ankle support for runners as the in-built pads offer targeted compression to alleviate the painful condition while also remaining extremely comfortable. The Pro-Tec ankle support runners also feature an elastic strap that lifts your heel to prevent it from sudden strain or stretch of the tendon. This best running ankle support can be worn over a sock and fits comfortably inside the shoe. It features a bilateral design to fit both left and right foot.
Pros
|
Cons
|
7. Zensah Ankle Support for Running, Soccer, Volleyball, Sports
 |
Check price on Amazon |
The Zensah ankle support is another excellent option in the “best ankle sleeve for running” category. This single brace ankle support is made of lightweight, breathable, and moisture-wicking fabric that comprises 75% nylon and 25% spandex. This combination renders it odor-free and also safe to wash in a washing machine. The Zensah ankle support can prove to be the best ankle compression sleeve for running if you are not too keen on wearing thick and bulky ankle braces, yet you want good support and compression around the ankles. Its 3D Geo Tech ribbing and compression design provide active relief from arch and heel pain, and the gentle compression boosts circulation in the affected area to reduce swelling. This easy slip-on ankle sleeve also provides advanced support without restricting your mobility. Plus, it has a seamless and flat cuff that prevents chafing and minimizes discomfort.
Pros
|
Cons
|
8. Cotill’s Neoprene Breathable Adjustable Ankle Brace
 |
Check price on Amazon |
Cotill’s adjustable ankle brace is a great option for people looking for ankle support that offers a tight grip and enough ventilation to your foot. Made from lightweight neoprene fabric, this ankle wrap is soft and easy to wear. This best running ankle support can fit up to 11-inch feet arch circumference and comes in three different sizes. Its sweat-wicking material offers all-day comfort without irritating your skin and also keeps your feet odor-free. The elastic neoprene material offers moderate compression that not only boosts blood circulation around the ankle but also provides soothing warmth for faster recovery.
This brace comes with double adjustable straps to ensure exceptional ankle support and protection against ankle sprains and injury. Cotill offers one of the best ankle support for runners for post-surgery recovery, arthritis injury, swelling, and other discomforts.
Pros
|
Cons
|
9. Neo G Ankle Brace, Figure of 8 Strap – Adjustable Compression
 |
Check price on Amazon |
The Neo G ankle brace is perfect for anyone who leads an active lifestyle. This neoprene ankle support is truly the best ankle wrap for running as it is medically engineered by orthopedic designers to help relieve ankle pain associated with arthritis, aching joints, and ankle, ligament, and tendon recovery. This brace is also considered one of the best trail running ankle support to reduce eversion and inversion of the ankle on uneven surfaces.
Another reason to go for this best ankle support for runners is that it is registered internationally as a Class 1 medical device, and the manufacturer is also an official partner of the Chartered Society of Physiotherapy. The Neo G ankle support runners feature a figure-8 adjustable strap that offers extra support and compression, while the neoprene fabric keeps the muscles and joints warm to aid recovery. This best ankle brace for trail running also features a Variable Compression System, which means that one size will fit a wide range of foot sizes.
Pros
|
Cons
|
10. Liomor Ankle Support Breathable Ankle Brace for Basketball Running Ankle Sprain
 |
Check price on Amazon |
The last one in our best ankle brace for running is a hook and loop adjustable ankle brace from Liomor. Featuring crisscross reinforcement straps, this trail running ankle support offers extra stabilization to your feet on uneven surfaces. Besides minimizing the risk of injuries, this brace also helps to relieve edema and symptoms linked with acute ankle injuries and sprains.
Made of high-elastic and sweat-wicking material with a perforated interlayer, this brace will keep your feet dry and cool for hours. Coming to the design of this best ankle wrap for running, it features an open heel construction to offer a wide range of motion while also providing optimum support to your feet. The straps come with premium Velcro that does not fluff or loosens easily from constant use. This best running ankle support can fit up to 12-inch feet arch circumference and can be worn on both left and right feet.
Pros
|
Cons
|
How Do I Know If I Need Ankle Support Runners?
Wearing the best ankle brace for running can help in rehabilitation from a recent injury. Using them post-injury will keep your ankle, tendons, and joints protected as they get back to taking the load. Ankle sleeves are recommended if you have weak ankles and are increasing your mileage while training for a long-distance run. If you are into trail running, wearing an ankle brace for trail running becomes imperative to prevent injuries from loose rocks or uneven grounds. The best trail running ankle support can give good compression and stability to your weak ankles while hitting off uneven tracks. The best running ankle support can also come in handy for other kinds of injuries such as Plantar fasciitis, heel spurs, tendonitis, shin splints, and also to support flat feet.
Buying Guide: How To Select An Ankle Support?
Choosing the best ankle support for runners is not easy. To help you select the right brace, here the features that you must look for in the ankle support runners.
Support
Optimum support and compression are the primary factors for selecting the best running ankle support. Whether you need mild, moderate, or high support will depend on the intensity of the sport you are involved in or the level of injury.
Comfort
Opt for a breathable and lightweight fabric that does not heat up your feet and, at the same time, does its job. However, if you are returning from an injury, your priority should certainly be extra support, so go for a brace that your feet can tolerate if not love. You must also check how easy the best ankle sleeve for running is to put on and off.
Type
You can either go for a lace-up brace that you can adjust as per your comfort or opt for the best ankle compression sleeve for running that also helps to reduce swelling around the ankles. The braces with figure-8 straps offer maximum support. If you are going to use the brace every day, you must opt for an orthopedic design, and if you only need it during sports activity, you must choose one that offers support while not limiting your range of motion.
Fit
Wearing the right-fitting ankle brace is extremely crucial to prevent further injuries. The best ankle braces for running come with adjustable straps and in a variety of sizes. Ideally, the ankle brace should be tight and fit snuggly around your ankles, but it should not hurt.
Value
The best ankle support for running is available in different price ranges. However, while searching for ankle support runners, make the decision on the basis of other factors and then compare the price.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ques1. What does an ankle brace do?
Ans: The best ankle support for runners will provide stability and support to your ankle, tendons, and joints. If you have already injured your ankle before, wearing the best running ankle support will reduce the swelling, help your ankle to recover, and prevent it from future injury.
Ques2: Should you wear an ankle brace while running?
Ans: Yes, if you have weak ankles and suffer from general pain, instability, or discomfort, you must definitely invest in the best ankle support for running. If you are going to run after recovering from an injury, it can also help you from sudden jerks and twists.
Ques3: How do I protect my ankles when running?
Ans: You must warm up your ankles and muscles before every run. You should also be realistic about your running goals. If you have already suffered an injury, you should slowly ease into your form again. Plus, wearing the best ankle sleeve for running and changing your running shoes regularly will help.
If you are looking for more running gear, do check out our reviews for the best running gloves and the best running backpacks on the market.
Ques4: What helps ankle pain from running?
Ans: Giving rest to your ankles is essential after every run. Avoid exerting weight on your feet for the next 48 to 72 hours. If you injure your ankle, use a cold compress on the area as soon as possible. Wrap up your ankle with the best ankle wrap for running and keep your ankle elevated when you lie down.
Ques5: Should I run through pain?
Ans: If you have just started going for a run, running through mild pain that ranges from 1-3 on a scale of 10 is considered safe to run through. However, if the pain is moderate or high in intensity, you must consult a doctor and follow the RICE protocol (Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation).
Ques6: Does barefoot running strengthen your ankles?
Ans: Yes, running barefoot does help to strengthen your feet and ankles. However, you must begin the process gradually by not running for more than five minutes initially. Slowly increase the time as your feet grow stronger.
Ques7: Should I wear my ankle support all the time or while running?
Ans: If you feel that your ankle is sore and needs support, you can continue to wear it throughout the day initially. However, wearing it for a prolonged period can lead to muscle weakness. You should also remove the brace while sleeping to allow proper blood circulation.
Ques8: Why are some Ankle Braces Left or Right Foot Only?
Ans: Some braces are foot specific because your feet are not identical. Therefore, each foot has its specific form, which requires specific ankle support runners.
Conclusion
We have tried to cover a versatile range of ankle brace for trail running and sports activities as well as for pain and injuries. If you are still confused about the best ankle support for running, you can take the help of our buying guide.