To avoid ankle injuries or get better from them, it’s important to pick the right ankle brace. There are lots of choices, and it might be hard to decide which one gives the best mix of support and comfort. In this review, we’ll check out the Figure 8 Ankle Brace and see if it really helps keep active people stable and relieved.
Table: 5 Best Figure 8 Ankle Brace in 2024
[wptb id=729]1. DonJoy Performance Figure 8 Ankle Sleeve
The DonJoy Performance Figure 8 Ankle Sleeve is a great pick for those needing support for their arch and ankle joint. With its dual Figure-8 elastic straps, it mimics taping, giving stability and reinforcement. The open-heel design focuses compression and stability on the ankle joint, reducing unwanted movements and ensuring proper alignment during activities. The mesh lining in the sleeve lets in maximum airflow, keeping your foot cool and comfy—especially useful during intense workouts or extended wear.
This Donjoy ankle sleeve’s versatile design fits well in most shoes and can be worn on either the left or right ankle, offering flexibility and convenience. It’s perfect for various activities like tennis, baseball, volleyball, lacrosse, field hockey, walking, hiking, yoga, basketball, rugby, soccer, running, cheerleading, cross-country, and daily tasks. Providing necessary support and stability, it enhances performance and lowers the risk of injuries in different sports and physical activities.
2. Ossur FormFit Ankle Brace
The Ossur FormFit Ankle Brace is made for folks with a 12″-13″ ankle size. To get the right fit, just measure diagonally from your heel to the instep, passing over the base of your heel and across the ankle bone.
This ankle brace is comfy because it’s made with breathable materials, letting air flow and preventing too much heat and moisture. It’s easy to put on and take off quickly, thanks to its fast lace-up feature. The low-profile design makes it convenient for wearing and removing whenever you need to.
The FormFit Ankle Brace fits snugly, controlling ankle movements well. This is great for stability during activities or when bouncing back from an ankle injury. If you need more support, there’s also a version with a figure 8 strap. This one limits ankle motion more, giving extra stability and lowering the chance of more injuries.
3. BraceAbility Sports Ankle Brace
The BraceAbility Sports Ankle Brace is made for active comfort, keeping your foot cool during sports. Its breathable knitted tongue allows proper ventilation, so you can play volleyball, basketball, tennis, soccer, baseball, football, exercise, or run without feeling uncomfortable. No need for constant ankle taping with its figure-eight, lace-up design. You get ankle support without the hassle of reapplying tape. It’s a unisex black brace, preventing visible stains common with white ankle wraps.
This ankle brace does two things: protects and treats common ankle issues. The included splint stabilizes your ankle, supporting both eversion and inversion movements. It effectively handles problems like pain, sprains, rolls, tendonitis, twists, arthritis, and torn ligaments. Made with thin, breathable, yet strong ballistic-type nylon, this active ankle stabilizer is tough and dependable. The pressure and compression straps, made of non-stretch nylon, give lasting relief for ankle injuries. The materials offer necessary support without sacrificing comfort or affecting your performance.
4. Ossur FormFit Ankle Brace with Speedlace
The Ossur FormFit Ankle Brace with Speedlace gives top-notch ankle stability, ensuring maximum protection. It’s great for different uses like preventive care, chronic instability, and mild to moderate sprains. Along with the quick lace-up, it has figure 8 straps for added stability. These straps go beyond the usual, limiting more movements like inversion, eversion, flexion, and extension, providing extra stability and protection.
For more personalization and support, the FormFit Ankle Brace has removable semi-rigid stays on both sides. These, combined with quick-pull closure straps and a cuff, give even more support. You can take them out for added flexibility as needed. The slim-fit design uses breathable and lightweight fabric, fitting easily into most shoes for all-day comfort. Its low-profile design lets you wear it for a long time, maximizing its usability.
With seven sizes available, it ensures a personalized fit for everyone. Perfect for various sports, it provides controlled immobilization for mild to moderate sprains, tendonitis, and acute injuries from activities like running or hiking. It gives solid ankle support during these actions, ensuring stability and a quicker recovery.
5. BraceAbility Lace-Up Ankle Brace
The BraceAbility Lace-Up Ankle Brace is a flexible solution for handling various ankle issues. It works well for high and low sprains, strains, chronic instability, osteoarthritis, hypertension, gout, tendonitis, and lateral pain. With its figure-8 lace-up design, it’s easy to put on without pain. The simple wrap gives adjustable compression on both sides of your ankle through supportive pressure straps, offering the right support and pain relief tailored to your needs.
Made from lightweight and breathable materials, this ankle splint stays comfortable even when worn with a shoe. It’s designed for all-day use, giving superior support and protection while you’re active—whether you’re walking, running, working, or playing sports. The robust build of this ankle support ensures the highest level of protection. It effectively shields your weak ankle from sprains, rolls, and twists while actively aiding recovery from injuries or instability issues. With this brace, you can confidently take part in activities, knowing your ankle is well-supported and protected.
What is Figure 8 Ankle Brace?
A Figure 8 Ankle Brace is an orthopedic device made to give support and stability to the ankle joint. It’s called “Figure 8” because when you wrap it around the ankle, it looks like the number 8. Usually, it’s made of elastic or neoprene material with straps crossing over the front and back of the ankle in a figure 8 pattern.
This type of ankle brace is commonly used for various ankle issues like sprains, strains, ligament injuries, and general instability. It helps control excessive movement, keeps proper alignment, and aids in the healing process. This allows people to confidently take part in daily activities and sports, lowering the risk of further injury.
5 Benefits of Figure 8 Ankle Brace
Design and Construction
The Figure 8 Ankle Brace is cleverly crafted to give dependable support to the ankle joint. Its design includes a figure-eight strap configuration, giving it its name, and providing a secure fit with targeted compression. Usually made of durable and breathable materials like neoprene or nylon, this brace ensures comfort even during extended wear. Its lightweight build lets you move freely while keeping the ankle stable.
Support and Stability
The Figure 8 Ankle Brace stands out for its outstanding support and stability. Its figure-eight strap system effectively restricts too much ankle movement, especially rolling inward (inversion) and outward (eversion). This lateral support lowers the chances of sprains, strains, and typical ankle injuries. The adjustable straps enable a personalized fit, catering to different ankle sizes and offering the preferred level of compression.
Comfort and Breathability
Ankle braces are sometimes linked to discomfort or limited airflow, making them less ideal for extended use. Yet, the Figure 8 Ankle Brace effectively tackles these issues. Its use of breathable materials ensures good ventilation, reducing moisture buildup and keeping the ankle cool. Additionally, the brace’s ergonomic design and lightweight build provide a comfortable fit, enabling people to wear it during physical activities without hindering their performance.
Ease of Use
Wearing and adjusting the Figure 8 Ankle Brace is a straightforward task. The brace usually comes with hook-and-loop closures, making it easy to put on and take off. The adjustable straps allow for swift customization of fit and compression, guaranteeing a snug and secure feel. Whether you’re an athlete or recovering from an ankle injury, the simplicity of this ankle brace makes it a user-friendly choice.
Versatility
The Figure 8 Ankle Brace is crafted to suit a diverse range of activities and sports. It offers dependable support for baseball, soccer, running, hiking, and other sports involving high-impact and lateral movements. Moreover, individuals dealing with chronic ankle instability or recovering from ankle sprains can find its stabilizing effects beneficial for everyday activities.
When to Use Figure 8 Ankle Brace?
- Preventing Injuries: People who are active, especially those engaged in sports with quick movements, lateral motions, or jumping, can use the Figure 8 Ankle Brace as a preventive measure. It offers stability to the ankle joint, lowering the risk of sprains, strains, and other typical ankle injuries.
- Ankle Sprains: After an ankle sprain, the Figure 8 Ankle Brace can be worn during the recovery period. It provides support and protects the injured ligaments, allowing them to heal properly. The brace limits excessive ankle movement, preventing additional damage and supporting a faster recovery.
- Chronic Ankle Instability: People dealing with chronic ankle instability, marked by recurring ankle sprains or a sense of ankle weakness, can find relief with the Figure 8 Ankle Brace. It offers extra support to the ankle joint, improving stability and decreasing the chances of future injuries.
Instructions
- Measure Your Ankle:
- Measure your ankle at its widest part.
- Use the sizing chart from the maker to find your right brace size.
Prepare the Brace:
- Make sure the brace is clean and good.
- Know how the figure-eight straps work.
Putting On the Brace:
- Sit or stand comfortably.
- Put your foot in the brace.
- Pull it up and make it snug on your ankle.
Adjust the Straps:
- Cross the straps over your ankle.
- Fasten them securely but not too tight.
- Make sure it helps without stopping your blood flow.
Check the Fit:
- See if the brace lines up with your ankle.
- Change it if needed for a good and comfy fit.
Wearing with Shoes:
- Check if it fits inside your shoes.
- Change the fit if needed for your shoes.
Duration of Use:
- Follow the maker’s guide on how long to use it.
- Ask a healthcare person if you’re not sure.
Cleaning and Maintenance:
- Look at the care info from the maker.
- Clean it often to keep it clean and last longer.
Monitoring Comfort:
- Notice if it hurts or rubs.
- If it keeps happening, ask a healthcare person.
Rest and Professional Guidance:
- Let your ankle rest, especially if you wear it a lot.
- Ask a pro if you worry about the brace or your ankle.
FAQ
How do I determine the correct size for the Figure 8 Ankle Brace?
To find the right size, measure the circumference of your ankle at its widest point. Most manufacturers offer sizing charts that match ankle measurements with the suitable brace size. It’s crucial to adhere to the precise sizing instructions provided by the manufacturer to ensure a proper fit.
Can I wear the Figure 8 Ankle Brace inside my shoes?
Yes, the Figure 8 Ankle Brace is generally crafted to fit comfortably inside most athletic or casual shoes. Nevertheless, it’s important to check the specific product details and sizing to ensure compatibility with your footwear.
How tight should I fasten the straps of the Figure 8 Ankle Brace?
Fasten the straps of the Figure 8 Ankle Brace snugly to ensure the needed support and compression. However, it’s crucial not to overtighten them, as this might lead to discomfort or restrict blood circulation. Aim for a balance where the brace feels secure but not excessively tight.
Can I wear the Figure 8 Ankle Brace all day?
Although the Figure 8 Ankle Brace is created for prolonged use, it’s advised to adhere to the manufacturer’s recommendations regarding how long you should wear it. Some braces may be suitable for all-day use, while others might suggest intermittent wear or specific time limits. It’s crucial to give your ankle some rest and seek advice from a healthcare professional if you have any concerns.
Is the Figure 8 Ankle Brace washable?
Many Figure 8 Ankle Braces are machine washable or can be hand-washed. However, it’s vital to check the care instructions given by the manufacturer to ensure proper maintenance. Regular cleaning is important for hygiene and helps prolong the life of the brace.
