Ankles take a lot of strain. Every step on uneven ground, every jump, landing and quick change of direction relies on the ankle staying stable. It is no surprise that ankle supports are among the most popular supports for sport, walking and everyday activity. With so many styles available, though, it is not always obvious which one to choose.
This guide explains the main types of ankle support, what each is designed for, how a support should fit and when it is worth getting professional advice.
The main types of ankle support
Compression sleeves
A simple pull-on sleeve that covers the ankle and part of the foot. Sleeves provide light, even compression and warmth with minimal bulk, so they fit easily inside most shoes. They suit people who want a gentle feeling of support during everyday activity or exercise rather than firm stability.
Strapped ankle supports
These add adjustable straps, often in a figure-of-eight pattern around the foot and ankle. Straps let you increase the level of support and fine-tune the fit, which many people find useful for sport, hiking or when returning to activity after a minor sprain.
Lace-up ankle braces
Lace-up braces wrap around the ankle like a boot and are tightened with laces, sometimes with extra straps on top. They offer more structure than a sleeve and are popular in court and field sports where sideways movements are common.
Braces with side supports
Some braces include semi-rigid side panels or stays that help limit sideways rolling of the ankle. These are more structured and are often chosen on the advice of a physiotherapist.
Walking boots and rigid braces
Rigid boots and immobilising braces are designed for more significant injuries and are normally used on the advice of a doctor or physiotherapist rather than chosen independently.
How to choose the right ankle support
- Think about the activity. Light everyday use often suits a sleeve; sport with jumping and cutting movements often suits a strapped or lace-up brace.
- Check it fits your footwear. A bulky brace can make shoes tight and uncomfortable. Try it with the shoes you will wear.
- Look for adjustability. Straps or laces let you adjust support as your needs change.
- Consider comfort over time. Breathable materials and smooth inner seams matter if you will wear the support for long periods.
- Follow professional advice if you are recovering from a diagnosed injury.
How should an ankle support fit?
An ankle support should feel snug and secure without pinching or cutting off circulation. Your heel should sit comfortably, the material should lie flat without wrinkles, and you should be able to walk normally. Remove or loosen the support if you notice numbness, tingling, swelling below the support, colour changes in your toes or increasing pain.
If sizes are based on measurements, measure as the manufacturer instructs, often around the ankle or the arch of the foot. If you fall between sizes, follow the size guide’s recommendation.
When to get your ankle checked
A support is not a substitute for assessment. Seek medical advice if you cannot put weight on your foot, the ankle looks misshapen, there is severe swelling or bruising, you have numbness, or the pain is not improving. A physiotherapist can also suggest strengthening and balance exercises, which are an important part of recovery and of reducing the chance of the ankle giving way again.
Frequently asked questions
Can I wear an ankle support for running?
Many runners use a light sleeve or low-profile strapped support. Make sure it fits inside your running shoe without rubbing before you head out on a longer run.
Should I wear an ankle support all the time?
Most people wear a support for the activities where they want extra security, rather than all day. If you have been advised to wear one for an injury, follow your clinician’s guidance.
Left or right foot?
Many ankle supports fit either foot, but some are side-specific. Check the product details before buying.
Explore ankle supports
Browse the Venollo ankle supports and braces collection. If you are also thinking about support further up the leg, read our guides to calf sleeves and supports and choosing a knee brace for sport.
This article is general information and is not a substitute for medical advice. If you have an injury, a health condition or ongoing symptoms, please speak to a qualified healthcare professional.
