Article Last Updated: September 1, 2024
In gymnastics, performers need to develop body flexibility, gracefulness, and strength to enable them to perform creatively and artistically.
During such performances, parts of the body are at risk of injuries, especially if the injury has already occurred before.
Ankles are frequently a problem area in this sport with the most common being acute sprains.
Minor injuries normally only have pain on one side of the ankle and can be treated and prevented with a quality ankle brace.
More serious injuries require medical attention and in most cases could have been prevented by proper support.
It provides arch and hill support; Improves circulation and fits under regular socks.
CompressionZ foot sleeves increase blood flow to the feet to help you recover faster.
These socks will keep your feet stable, comfortable and protected.
One of the most vulnerable body parts of an acrobat is the ankle, which is why we advocate for the best gymnastics ankle brace during training and if possible, performances.
In addition to wearing a suitable gymnastics ankle support, an acrobat should have a proper body support, which provides safety during training.
In the absence of braces and other body support apparatus, the player is likely to encounter injuries that could be detrimental to health and career.
The use of a reliable gymnastics Ankle Braces is therefore a major requirement in all acrobatic activities.
According to medical experts in the treatment of gymnastics-related injuries, all gymnasts should wear functional Ankle Braces as a requirement for their performances.
This could save the performers from traumatic physical injuries such as ‘tumbling’, which can cause acute body pain and immobility. Several types of gymnastics braces for your leg exist in the market:
- Ankle Braces
- Calf sleeves
- Knee support brace
- Waist splint or wrap
- Shoulder stabilizer compression
- Compression shorts with groin wrap and
- Special Ankle Braces for sprains and other injuries
In this article, we focus on the best ankle brace for gymnastics and supports and give you a well-researched list of the top 10 braces that you should consider for a gymnastic activity.
Top 10 Gymnastics Ankle Brace
Gymnasts are exposed to various injuries, which happen due to overstretching of skin, tendons, and ligaments. Other injuries may be the result of sprains and muscle twisting.
However, with a good gymnastics ankle brace, players can alleviate the pain and keep their ankles firm for their activities.
Acrobats aside, any person can suffer from various forms of foot or ankle pain such as plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendon, and sprains caused by daily work.
Here is a great video on how to immediately relieve pain after an gymnastics ankle injury.
An ankle brace is an important preventative solution to most problems related to ankle or foot pain.
For a gymnast or any other person interested in high-impact activities, here is a list of top 10 gymnastics ankle support that you can consider buying in 2020.
The braces in this list have specific features and qualities that enable them to rank the best gymnastics ankle brace in 2020.
In addition to the features, the selection was based on feedback and recommendations received from both existing and previous users.
1. Plantar Fasciitis Compression Socks (Best For Recent Injury)
PROS
- Faster pain relief
- High level of comfort
- No sweat on foot
- Arch support
- Lightweight and breathable
CONS
- Can wrap too tight on some feet
- Some brands may offer low quality
This condition is so painful and frustrating that it can adversely affect the performance of a gymnast.
However, the compression socks bring a soothing feel and allow a proper circulation of blood around the affected area.
Based on its unique design, the Plantar Fasciitis Compression Socks deliver the right amount of compression that your heel needs to stay firm.
Different types of Plantar Compression Socks exist in the market. Some are open-toed and low-cut while others are arch-support sleeves.
The socks are not only ideal for relieving the Plantar Fasciitis condition, but they also reduce swelling and improve blood circulation.
By applying pressure to the Plantar Fascia ligament, they reduce the throbbing pain in the affected area.
Similarly, compression socks with arch support provide pain relief by offering a nice, firm support from the arch.
2. CompressionZ Foot Sleeves and Compression Socks
PROS
- Strong and stable
- Snug fit
- Quickens recovery from ankle injury
- Proper insulation
- Anti-bacterial material
CONS
- May be too tight on some feet
- The design may not work with some shoes
Many acrobats suffer from foot pains and problems that affect the quality of their daily lives.
The coot compression sleeves guarantee excellent compression and foot protection. They are ideal for Achilles tendon, offering sturdiness and stability.
While they offer a custom fit, they still allow muscle flexibility that enables you to achieve full range of foot movement.
With a special insulation that provides warmth to the ankle and entire foot, they are ideal for recovery after an injury, while providing a great support to the heel and arch region.
More importantly, the socks come with an anti-bacterial material that reduces odor while the breathable design enhances blood circulation.
Plantar Fasciitis Relief by CompressionZ Review
3. Sleeve Stars Plantar Fasciitis Foot Sleeve
PROS
- Unique compression improve blood circulation
- Quality material
- Easily adjustable
CONS
- One-size-fits-all
Thin, durable, and comfortable are three best words to describe this type of gymnastics ankle brace.
From the design point of view, this ankle brace offers a perfect level of support that keeps your injured ankle comfortable and secure.
It feels good, comfortable, and relieves pain while allowing ankle flexibility and movement.
Made from strong, elastic materials, it is easy to wear, fits well, and resumes its original shape after each use. What’s more, this gymnastics ankle brace comes with healing properties, which make it excellent for users suffering from arthritis, joint pain, and aches.
Sleeve Stars Plantar Fasciitis Sleeve | Unboxing & Review
4. Copper Compression Recovery Ankle Sleeve
PROS
- High percentage of copper ions compression (88%)
- Variety of sizes
- Average compression with foot flexibility
CONS
- Some models may have a low percentage of copper ions
- Users must pick size carefully
This copper-infused compression sleeve protects from ankle sprain, twists, or muscle pulls.
These types of injuries respond well to the copper element in the sleeve.
With the therapeutic quality, this compression sleeve can heal a sprained ankle without inflicting further damage.
5. Tuli’s Cheetah Heel Protector
PROS
- Best compression
- Ideal for injured ankle
- Neoprene guard for complete ankle support
- Improved aeration and circulation
- Best for active sports
CONS
- Some users find it too tight
- Universal size
The most popular gymnastics ankle brace and protector on the market. Perfect for both amateurs and professionals.
This ankle brace is ideal for those who already have ankle or lower leg injuries. It is made of a high-quality breathable material that allows blood circulation and aeration to the foot.
With a special shock absorbing heel protector, it is one of the choices for gymnasts and dancers alike.
It comes with a special Lycra sleeve that offers a snuggly fit. Besides, the neoprene material with special notches, allows your ankle to breathe. Based on where you buy from, this ankle brace package comes with a pair of soft Lycra sleeve and a hardened neoprene support.
What’s more, this ankle brace is ideal for daily use because of the neoprene guard that supports and protects your ankle from impacts.
For gymnasts, it offers a lightweight design with a breathable under-armor wrap, which provides great comfort and relief. Besides, it helps improve blood circulation rapidly, relieve pain from plantar Fasciitis, Achilles tendon, and decreases inflammation of the injured areas.
Tuli’s Cheetah Heel Protector Review
6. SENTEQ Compression Ankle Brace
PROS
- Unique, compact design
- Medical grade (FDA approved)
- Comfort, protection, and ankle stability
- High-quality material
CONS
- Becomes loose with time
- Might be too small or too big for some users
Ankle arthritis is the result of an inflammation or degeneration of the ankle. It leads to pain, stiffness, swelling, and cracking. These conditions can easily scuttle the career and performance of an acrobat.
However, with a gymnastics ankle support designed for ankle arthritis, you can experience a greater pain relief and comfort in the affected area.
This type of ankle support reduces joint swelling, enhances flexibility, and stimulates blood flow. In addition to these qualities, the viscose-elastic material is washable and resumes its shape even after use.
7. Kunto Fitness Ankle Brace
PROS
- Reduces foot pain
- Special, anti-slip design
- Variety of sizes
- Ideal for people with ankle ailments
CONS
- Available in one color only
- Some users may experience size challenge
Ankle sprain is a common injury for both amateur and seasoned acrobats. For that reason, this gymnastics ankle support offers a perfect solution to this condition.
The Kunto ankle brace for foot sprain and injury is excellent for unstable and weak ankles, making it one of the best gymnastics ankle brace in the market.
In addition to comfort and protection to the ankles, it offers muscle flexibility required in the following conditions:
- Achilles tendinitis
- Posterior tibia tendon dysfunction
- Ankle sprains
- Plantar fasciitis
In the end, it prevents the risk of ankle twisting and is more effective than the traditional taping.
8. Mueller Sports Medicine The One Ankle Brace
PROS
- Adjustable and anti-slip straps
- Perfect for all high-impact sports
- Fits in running shoes
- Reduces ankle pain
CONS
- Too restrictive on some feet
- Too hard to wear and to remove
This special gymnastics ankle brace is designed specifically to protect the acrobat from injuries emanating from jumping, running, or throwing activities.
Originally designed for basket and volleyball players, it is ideal for gymnasts as well, owing to its ability to maintain ankle and foot posture.
If you are looking for extra stability and prevention of low or high ankle sprains, this ankle brace comes in handy. Besides, it is durable, comfortable, fits well, and improves performance.
Mueller Sports Medicine Discusses Benefits Of ONE® Ankle Brace
9. Bracoo Ankle Support, Compression Brace
PROS
- Tough Neoprene material
- Absorb heat and keeps foot dry
- Velcro stabilizer
CONS
- Grip could be too tight
- One-size-fits-all
This ankle brace is suitable for floor gymnastics. It can keep the ankles firm while easing pain and soreness in training.
In addition to its durability and strength, it tightly secures the foot during leaps and jumps.
The breathable fabric provides enough aeration to the ankle while it remains securely in place even during the activity.
One notable drawback of this ankle brace is its tight grip, which makes it a bit more difficult to remove compared to other Ankle Braces.
Even so, it ranks as one of the best gymnastics ankle support in the market, which is able to prevent health hazards caused by an ankle sprain.
10. Ankle Brace for Plantar Fasciitis by KEMFORD
PROS
- Excellent ankle support
- Open-toe design
- Alleviates Achilles tendonitis and plantar fasciitis
- Ideal for gymnastics
CONS
- Best for women
- Slim design reduces warmth
Plantar fasciitis sleeves are designed to ease pain that arises from a joint or muscle inflammation. If you have an inflammation, swelling, or tightness in the heel, ankle, or Achilles, this brace offers a perfect solution.
In addition to providing a strong compression on the foot including the arch, sides, and heel, it enhances blood and oxygen flow to the affected area, which quickens healing.
It embraces a thin, open-toe design with a moisture-wicking material that keeps your feet dry and healthier throughout the activity.
Overall, this gymnastics ankle support reduces tissue and muscle inflammation caused by excessive stretching and fatigue.
Hazards in the Absence of Ankle Braces
Gymnastics present a high degree of injury, owing to its demanding physicality and the equipment involved. Many gymnasts sustain injuries through collision, falling off the equipment, and even during floor exercises. Most of the injuries are relatively minor, which include:
- Sprained ankles
- Wrist Sprains
- Foot injuries
Other forms of injury might be more severe such as:
- Fractures
- Ligament Tears
- Concussions
- Lower back problems
- Achilles tendonitis
Additionally, gymnasts may design to stay thin to maintain the ideal size for the game. When that happens, the person could resort to poor diet and nutrition, which might lead to weakness and more prone to injuries.
All the same, there is always a solution to these problems. Health experts advise on the proper use of Ankle Braces in addition to normal footwear.
It is advisable to use shoes with reinforced toes to absorb landing pressure, especially if you are competing in the vault. Similarly, beam balance competitors prefer rubber-sole shoes to protect against slipping.
All the same, regardless of the type of shoes an acrobat chooses to wear, having a reliable gymnastics ankle brace on is the best way to prevent injuries associated with such activities.
Prevention of Severe Injuries
While the best ankle brace for gymnastics provides adequate support and protection during the activities, other simple precautions exist, which can reduce the chances of injuries.
For instance, it is advisable to take care of simple things in a gymnasium. This may include, but not limited to the condition of the floor, the efficiency of the equipment used, lightings, and any other aspect that might affect the performance of an acrobat.
More importantly, acrobats can benefit more from proper planning. Have an overall checklist for everything you need during the activity, including the gymnastics ankle brace that you will use.
With all precautions in place, you can perform to your potential with reduced chances of ankle injuries.
