What Types of Ankle Support do NBA Players Use? (2024)

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.

What Types of Ankle Support do NBA Players Use? (2024)

FAQs

What Types of Ankle Support do NBA Players Use? ›

Ankle Support Curry.

What kind of ankle support does Steph Curry use? ›

Ankle Support Curry.

What is Steph Curry wearing on his ankles? ›

Now. As worn by Steph Curry, the Zamst A2-DX Ankle Brace provides the strongest ankle support for moderate to severe ankle sprains. The ankle brace is made with i-Fit and a-Fit technology for an anatomically (right & left) correct fit.

What is the new ankle brace in the NBA? ›

Berlin-based Betterguards says it has made it happen, crafting a high-tech brace—buoyed by backing from the NBA's Launchpad program to support emerging technologies—and giving athletes across a range of sports a new way to prevent ankle injuries.

How do NBA players wrap 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.

What ankle support do NBA players use? ›

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.

Why don't more NBA players wear ankle braces? ›

Basketball players often feel the less restriction the more agile they will be on the court. Most players have this notion of feeling restricted when wearing an ankle brace and they believe they wouldn't be as quick wearing one.

How do NBA players prevent ankle injuries? ›

Here are some ways to protect your ankles based on what basketball players do.
  • Taping and Bracing. ...
  • Strengthen Muscles with Training. ...
  • Importance to Rest and Recovery. ...
  • Prevention.

How many ankle surgeries has Curry had? ›

He has played in all but three games this season, earning his 10th All-Star selection while averaging 27.2 points per game. Two ankle surgeries and chronic injuries threatened Curry's early career, but he's otherwise been mostly healthy.

Are Zamst ankle braces worth it? ›

The hard plastic plates make ankle rolls HIGHLY unlikely, but it doesn't restrict movement like I thought. The only problem is that it can be uncomfortable when it digs into your ankle. But they provide 2 adjustable pads to help with this. Overall, it's a great product and I would highly recommend it.

What is the best support for weak ankles? ›

For acute injuries, a walking boot, followed by a rigid ankle brace is advised. Eventually moving to semi-rigid ankle support. For ankle sprain prevention, the Aryse stability ankle system is a great option.

Should I wear ankle support for basketball? ›

Here's what he found: 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.

Why do NBA players wear elbow bands? ›

Arm Sleeves Enhance Performance & Reduces Chance of Injury

From basketball players to major league pitchers and tennis pros, arm motions are critical to their playing careers. The muscle support and improved circulation from compression sleeves gives many athletes an edge over the competition.

How do basketball players strengthen ankles? ›

Here are three exercises to train ankles for an injury-free basketball season:
  1. Ankle Rocks. Exercise Tips: Perform 1-2 sets of 15-20 repetitions per side. ...
  2. Ankle Swings. Exercise Tips: Perform 1-2 sets of 10-15 repetitions per side. ...
  3. Bent Knee Balance. Exercise Tips: Perform 1-2 sets of 20-30 seconds.
Jun 26, 2023

How to not sprain your ankle in basketball? ›

Warm muscles are not as prone to injury. Taping and Bracing: Using tape or an ankle brace will provide extra stability for your ankles. Ankle injuries tend to recur, so either of these can be a great option. If you have previously injured your ankle, wear an ankle brace every time you hit the court.

What kind of ankle surgery did Steph Curry have? ›

When Steph was under anesthesia and asleep, they were able to stress his previously surgically repaired ligaments and found the repair to be sound. They then moved on to both an Ankle joint arthroscopy and a Subtalar joint (the joint below the ankle joint) arthroscopy.

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