Pictured above, NBA champion Andrew Bogut working out in his Lasso Socks.
As part of one of the toughest and most physically demanding sports in the world, basketball players need to take extra care of their ankles. Ankle support is crucial for preventing injuries and maximizing performance on the court in a sport that requires frequent direction changes both on offense and defense. This can put incredible pressure on the ankles as we've all seen in stories like Steph Curry and Kevin Durant,
NBA players use a variety of different ankle supports to help them stay injury-free and perform at their best. Let's take a closer look at some of the most popularankle supportoptions for basketball players.
Compression Socks
Compression socks are a popular choice for NBA players. They provide a snug fit around the ankle and help to reduce fatigue, improve circulation, and reduce the risk of injury.
By providing compression and support around the ankle, compression socks help to keep the joint stable and reduce the risk of ankle sprains and other injuries.
Ankle Braces
Ankle braces are another popular choice for NBA players. Ankle braces are designed to support the ankle joint and reduce the risk of injury. They are typically made of a rigid material and are worn over the ankle and foot.
While ankle braces provide excellent support, they can also be bulky and uncomfortable to wear. Some players also find that ankle braces limit their range of motion, which can affect their performance on the court.
Tape
Tape is a common choice for NBA players who prefer a more customized approach to ankle support. Athletic tape is wrapped around the ankle and foot to provide support and stability. Tape is a versatile option that can be customized to fit the player's specific needs.
However, it can be time-consuming to apply and remove, and it can also be uncomfortable to wear for extended periods of time.
Lasso Socks
While taping and bracing seem like the only options in the market, we designed Lasso Socks to create an alternative that offers true ankle support comparable to taping, without the hassle of applying tape every day, and without the bulkiness of an ankle brace.
LassoSocksuse a patented compression weave that mimics taping to activate ligaments and tendons in the foot and ankle, and are often prescribed byphysicians for a variety of foot and ankle injuries, including weak ankles and ankle rolls/sprains.
FAQs
There are two commonly used styles of hinged ankle braces by athletes – hinged and hinged-cuff. The 'hinged only' braces, introduced in 1989, primarily restrict excessive ankle turning or “inversion.” Popular brands include Active Ankle, McDavid, and Shock Doctor.
What do NBA players use for ankle support? ›
Tape. Tape is a common choice for NBA players who prefer a more customized approach to ankle support. Athletic tape is wrapped around the ankle and foot to provide support and stability. Tape is a versatile option that can be customized to fit the player's specific needs.
What type of ankle brace is best for basketball? ›
Our Ultra Zoom is the best ankle brace in basketball because it uses your body heat to form to you. It allows you to move in all the natural ways and helps to restrict excessive movement that may result in an ankle sprain.
What is ankle support in basketball? ›
The Ankle support can be used both as a preventive measure as well as when having an injury to the ankle. It provides support to weak Ankle Joints, helps calming the pain and swelling. It also helps in avoiding future injuries.
What kind of ankle braces does Steph Curry use? ›
Today we're checking out the zamst. a two DX ankle brace. These are the famous braces worn by Steph Curry.
What is good ankle support? ›
After you just sprained your ankle, a walking boot can be the most comfortable to use. After the swelling has gone down a Stirrup (T2 Active) or Hybrid ankle brace is best.
How do NBA players tape their ankles? ›
Apply a circle of tape to stabilize the base of the foot, and then pull the tape around the ankle, passing the instep and sole, until you reach the other side of the ankle to form a heel lock. Finally, work upwards in a clockwise direction to form an anchor.
Can you play basketball with ankle support? ›
The importance of ankle support in basketball
With all this movement, your ankles are vulnerable to sprains and other injuries. That's why ankle support is crucial for basketball players of all levels. Ankle braces provide stability and help prevent excessive ankle movements that can lead to injuries.
Is a wrap or brace better for ankle? ›
Both ankle taping and wearing an ankle brace during sports and activity can reduce the risk of an ankle injury, however, an ankle brace is generally considered the best choice for ankle protection.
How do basketball players strengthen ankles? ›
Here are three exercises to train ankles for an injury-free basketball season:
- Ankle Rocks. Exercise Tips: Perform 1-2 sets of 15-20 repetitions per side. ...
- Ankle Swings. Exercise Tips: Perform 1-2 sets of 10-15 repetitions per side. ...
- Bent Knee Balance. Exercise Tips: Perform 1-2 sets of 20-30 seconds.
RICE protocol (rest, ice, compression, and elevation), particularly for the first 24-48 hours and non-operative management. For more severe sprains, such as Grade 2 or 3, immobilization with a wrap or bracing device may also be employed.
Can you wear ankle support over a sock? ›
Can I wear my ankle brace or support over my sock? We advise that you never wear supports over clothing. The additional material can lead to chafing and will also prevent the support from doing its job properly.
What is the best tape for basketball ankles? ›
ZINC OXIDE TAPE is the best choice for ankle strapping. It is a non-stretch tape that provides unrivalled support. Choose the TAN/BROWN version for the highest tensile strength. ZINC OXIDE tapes can also be ripped by hand.
Is Lamelo wearing ankle braces? ›
Ball started wearing ankle braces in practice before the season after three separate ankle injuries in 2022-23 sidelined him for long stretches and ultimately resulted in surgery.
How long do Zamst ankle braces last? ›
Most of our ankle braces are anatomically correct and are specifically made for a right and left ankle. Please refer to the product page of each ankle brace to determine if you need to choose a right or left option. How long can I expect my brace to last? Typically our products are made for 3-5 months or one season.
Do basketball ankle braces work? ›
Three times as many athletes sprained their ankle while playing without ankle braces than playing with one. This was true for girls and boys, varsity and JV, freshman and seniors alike. 68% fewer first-time ankle injuries happened while the athletes were wearing ankle braces.
