Shock Doctor Ankle Brace Review 2024
James
Brian p
Shock Doctor is the world leaders in mouth protection products. In recent years they have established an enviable reputation in the ankle protection market. Their range of supports and protective braces are the favorite choice of thousands of athletes and everyday sportspeople around the world. In this article, we have done the research on our ten favorites so you can discover which model will best fit your needs.
This is the best product on our list that is currently in stock:
Ice compression gel packs
Adjustable Z-grip straps
Lightweight neoprene material
10 Best Shock Doctor Ankle Braces
1. 851 Ultra Wrap
Low profile
Latex-free
Non-slip silicone gripper
Velcro needs to be more robust
The 851 Ultra Wrap is the best wrap for medium stability. You can use it to support strains, sprains, and unstable joints. It has a multi-directional strap stability system which is adjustable and gives you lateral and medial support without having to use tape. Enjoy total comfort with the low profile lacing loops and the specially designed, pre-curved tongue. It also has an anatomical footbed which has a no-slip gripping pattern. The finger tabs make it easy to get a grip and pull when you are fitting it on your foot.
Read moreThe Shock Doctor 851 Ultra Wrap provides maximum Level 3 protection to bring relief to strains, sprains, and instability during active recovery. It delivers a high level of soft tissue support and helps to correct joint alignment issues. Its compressive ability enhances blood flow to bring nutrients quickly to the affected area to speed up recovery. The stress added support of this brace improves your body’s proprioceptive ability, which informs the body to contract to protect itself.
The Shock Doctor 851 Ultra Wrap features a multi-directional adjustable strap system. This allows the user to control the level of tension and compression applied to the ankle. The low profile lacing loop and pre-curve tongue provide a maximum level of comfort. A non-slip gripping pattern on the footbed ensures that your grip is secure and stable. The easy finger pull tabs make it easy to get this brace on and off.
2. Ice Recovery Wrap
Ice compression gel packs
Adjustable Z-grip straps
Lightweight neoprene material
Unpleasant odor
The Ice Recovery wrap is designed to help with the recovery of injured or sore ankles. It is the ultimate ice solution. The wrap helps reduce pain and swelling using easy compression and 360-degree ice coverage to pull out the heat. You will enjoy the perfect fit, ice coverage, and gentle compression. This brace features a design which forms to your foot, as well as adjustable straps, and multiple gel ice packs. This brace has an anatomical design and Z-Grip TM closures.
Read moreThe Shock Doctor Ice Recovery wrap is a high tech brace that features removable gel packs that surround the heel and ankle to provide a very high level of protection and support. It provides revolutionary ice compression to remove swelling and pain by way of heat removing ice treatment. The gel packs can also be used heated to provide boosted compression. Both applications will dramatically speed up the healing process.
The Shock Doctor Ice Recovery has been anatomically designed for form-fitting customization. It features adjustable straps with Z-Grip technology for a very secure hold. The premium N-Tex ™ neoprene material is extremely lightweight while also being extremely stretchable and comfortable. It will wick away moisture while also preventing heat build-up.
3. 849 Ultra Gel
Gel cushioning
Non-slip silicone footbed
Easy pull-on finger tabs
Difficult to get constant tension when lacing
The 849 Ultra Gel comes with internal cushions that are gel-like to keep your ankle comfortable. It has a tongue that is pre-curved to give your ankle the proper alignment, stability, and support. This brace keeps your ankle supported with good compression so you can stay active and know that your ankle is on the right track to healing.
Read moreThe Shock Doctor 849 Ultra Gel is a high profile compression lace-up support. It has been fitted with gel cushions to provide a high level of comfort and support to the injured ankle. A compression wrap loop lacing system allows you to apply a good level of compression to the affected area. This allows for enhanced circulation, bringing more oxygen and nutrients to facilitate the repair process.
The Shock Doctor 849 has an ergonomically designed non-slip silicone footbed to ensure that you have maximum ground stability. Easy pull-on finger tabs make it a breeze to get this brace on and off, while the tongue that is pre-curved helps to mold the support to your foot for maximum comfort. This brace provides Maximum Level 3 stability, making it ideal for injuries pertaining to ligament sprains, unstable joints, and muscle strains.
4. Sleeve Support
High compression level
“Z” grip strap closure
Dual multi-directional straps
Velcro not strong enough
This Ankle Sleeve is an elastic mesh with multi-directional compression straps. The breathable elastic mesh keeps your ankle cool and comfortable with a low profile fit. The N-Tex compression neoprene is light and airy and gives you a premium level of moisture-wicking so there is no sweat or odor build-up.
Read moreThe Shock Doctor Ankle Sleeve with Compression Wrap is low profile support designed for people in need support due to mild or moderate injuries and proper joint alignment while running. Made from a combination of neoprene N-Tex Compression and a breathable mesh, this support is very light and airy. It provides a superior level of moisture-wicking ability, preventing sweat and odor build-up. With dual straps that are multi-directional, this brace puts the user in control of the amount of pressure being to the injured area.
The Shock Doctor Ankle Sleeve with Compression Wrap provides Performance Level 2 protection, making it ideal for those who suffer from minor sprains or strains to moderate. It features a unique “Z” grip-strap closure to provide the most secure closure. This gives you peace of mind that the brace won’t slip, loosen or bunch up as you’re wearing it. This product is completely latex-free.
5. Stabilizer with Flexible Support Stays
Quick fit low profile design
Bilateral support stays
N-Tex for moisture wicking
Hard to take on and off
This 847 Ankle Stabilizer is a quick fit, low profile design with a speed-lace closure. It has integrated technology and is made of SBR, nylon, and polyester. This stabilizer is designed with convenience and protection in mind. It is flexible and bilateral to offer the best support.
Read moreThe Ankle Stabilizer is easy and supportive with great comfort. It is designed with convenience and protection in mind. This is low profile support which uses flexible, bilateral stays to help with ankle support. The convenient Z-grip technology gives you speed-lace closure. They have an easy-grip pull which helps you position the support. You get the best stability your joints deserve.
This brace gives you moderate support for sprains that are anywhere from minor to moderate and also aids in unstable joints and muscle strains. It lets you use your leg while your ankle is recovering. This brace is a quick-fit with integrated bilateral support stays with N-Tex for moisture-wicking.
6. Compression Knit Sleeve
Target compression around the ankle
Integrated gel inlays
Engineered for support and comfort
Too tight for some people
The Compression Knit Ankle Sleeve gives the proper amount of compression that is targeted to problematic areas and offers the right amount of support. It will provide you with ultra comfort and breathability while your ankle is healing. The sleeve features knit construction which is anatomical with compression zones that are contoured just right. It offers a gel support for pain relief and ankle recovery. This sleeve was designed with breathability in mind as well as offering premium support to your ankle, all while keeping you as comfortable as possible. This design will not necessarily restrict your overall range of motion either. The unique knit construction helps target certain compression zones so you get the ultimate support while your body continues the healing process. Another perk is that the knit design allows for maximum comfort, even for all-day wear. The moderate support takes care of minor to moderate strains, sprains, and joints that may be unstable, which gives you time to recover properly and effectively.
Read moreThis Compression Ankle Sleeve provides breathable compression with a contoured, comfortable fit around your ankle that is soft on your skin. It gives you additional targeted compression and support with from gel inlays throughout the sleeve.
This sleeve gives you a comfortable fit without bunching up during a flex. It has an elastic knit design. It offers a support level as well as compression and alignment while your ankle is healing. This sleeve gives you adequate support for injuries, such as minor sprains and muscle strains to moderate sprains, and unstable joints allowing you to use your ankle as you recover.
7. Brace Support Compression Sleeve
Made of breathable material
Compression and contoured support
Elastic materials
Too tight for some people
This brace gives you a soft, breathable knit sleeve with consistent compression throughout your ankle area. You can take advantage of Shock Doctor’s years of intensive research, development, and testing. One size does not fit all so you need to follow the easy sizing chart.
Read moreThis brace gives you instant relief thanks to the perfected compression and contoured support. It will stabilize your ankle and foot which will help you heal and prevent further injury. The compression in this brace increases your blood flow which will help to lower swelling. This brace is also extremely breathable and gives you a snug fit. You should not have to settle for bulky, hot or stiff braces. The contoured zones on this one make a perfect ergonomic fit and it will not cut off your circulation. You can wear it under or over a sock while keeping your foot dry.
This brace is perfect to wear in athletic shoes, casual footwear, or even just while you are resting. You can wear it while doing sport like football, soccer, basketball, running, or any activity you are ready for. It is also perfect for everyday use. The elastic knit is made from quality materials. Combining nylon and elastane gives these compression sleeves to be comfortable and durable. It is washable and keeps its support and performance qualities.
8. Ultra Knit
Breathable and moisture-wicking
Flexible side stays
Fits on either ankle
Is not durable enough
This brace is anatomically engineered and a low profile specifically for your comfort. The quick-wrap closure and a unique hinge made from flex-link are designed for maximum ankle support and performance for a body which is active. The internal lateral and medial support stays are molded plastic and also ergonomic, which helps your ankle remain comfortable at all times. Molded TPU exoskeleton supports the exterior of the brace for more enhanced lateral stability. The plastic internal stirrup wraps up from under your foot and supports below the ankle.
Read moreThe Ultra Knit gives you maximum support to help prevent and heal sprains, strains and ankle instability while you are working to recover. The ultra knit compression improves your therapeutic circulation and will keep your muscles warm. The weave pattern material is breathable and moisture-wicking.
This brace is designed with flexible side stays that are mixed into comfort gel pads. It stabilizes your joints with a figure-6 strapping pattern. The anatomical design will not bunch and comfortably contours to your ankle. It will fit either ankle and is easy to take on and off.
9. V-Flex XT
Advanced heel/lock strap
Low friction hinge for unrestricted movement
Anatomical medial/lateral base-stirrup
Sized small
The V-Flex Brace is the future in ankle braces. The company did a lot of research and developed this brace with meaningful improvements and solutions to the requirements athletes have before and after an ankle injury. The new hinges are ergonomically,
and structurally designed to fit better. It is more comfortable and improves the stability against stresses that occur during use.
The V Flex has a bio-mechanical inner and outer hinge position which aligns perfectly with your ankle. The ergonomic medial and lateral contoured supports naturally fit your lower leg. The advanced wrap strap that locks at the heel will increase the retention of your heel and foot position which provides the best in performance, fit, and stabilizing support.
It has a low friction hinge for an unrestricted range of motion.
The anatomical medial and lateral base stirrup will comfortably wrap your foot while the asymmetrical design integrates comfortably with insoles in your shoes. The fiber-reinforced molded plastic is lightweight and provides superior support.
10. 2055 Bio-Logix
Rear opening for easy on/off
Anti-slip silicone sole
Left and right foot specific
Only wraps above the ankle
The 2055 Bio-Logix has an easy on and off from the rear opening. The forefoot has a sleeve and a wrap closure which makes this brace simple to put on. The anti-slip sole keeps your foot stable during in-shoe contact. The contoured memory foam aligns your brace with your ankle joint to give you a precision fit.
The soft flex-link hinge integration gives you a natural ankle flexion and extension.
The Bio-Logix brace features a soft Flex-Link hinge which gives you a natural flex and extension as well as fluid movement. This brace has an integrated strap system which is a figure-8 and a heel-lock strap for added stability.
It also features ergonomic internal support stays which are molded plastic and comfortably surround joint. The molded TPU exoskeleton supports the exterior brace for more lateral stability.
Criteria Used for Evaluation
Features
Shock Doctor is a trusted name in fitness equipment and they have quite an extensive line of ankle braces. With this many to choose from, you definitely need to take a look at all the features each one has to offer.
The Shock Doctor ankle braces are designed with high quality. They keep your ankles supported with gel ice packs or memory foam. They feature a variety of different straps that are adjustable for different compression levels. You want a material that is stretchy and keeps its strength. It should be breathable and able to keep moisture away from your skin.
Your brace will give your ankle the support it needs so it will be stronger or can heal. It is handy that most of these models will fit on the left or right foot, though some do not. Most do have an ergonomic design and a non-slip footbed.
These braces have different methods of giving you the support and compression you need. Some of the ankle braces have laces. Most of them have straps that can be adjustable to fit any size foot at the right angle and compression you need.
Some of the braces are designed to completely immobilize your limb so it can heal. Others are not quite as stiff and are designed to be worn as added protection for a healing joint or to help a weak joint. Take all of this into consideration before you decide which design is best for you.
Ease of Use
Wearing an ankle brace is a rough predicament so you want one you can use easily. It should be easy to take off and on. Shock Doctor keeps this in mind with their braces. The straps are easy to adjust and use to get the perfect angle and compression. Some are even designed to put into your shoe and then just slip in your foot.
A couple of these models open rear entry or they have a special pull on finger tabs so you can a get a better grip or the brace.
The ankle braces have a cushioned sole and an ergonomic design. They will not bunch up or slip. These braces are nice and comfortable, lightweight and easy to fit in your shoe. They will not cause your foot to sweat so it becomes uncomfortable.
These braces are made with breathable elastic mesh to avoid sweating and bacteria build-up. They are also designed with a Z grip-strap closure which makes them easy to maneuver.
Comfort
The Shock Doctor knows comfort is mandatory when it comes to a brace for your ankle. If you are nursing an injury you want a brace which is baby it until it is healed. The brace should be made of a material which is easy on your skin. It should feel good against it without causing any irritation.
The materials are comfortable and the brace can be worn over your sock and fit in your shoe. Some of the models have gel cushions which help to keep your sore ankle cushioned.
These braces have an anatomical design which contours around your ankle to hold it steady and a pre-curved tongue. Most of these braces are made of a material which is breathable and moisture-wicking, keeping the sweat away from your skin while holding on to the comfortable heat. Keeping your skin dry helps prevent odor and bacteria.
Most of these braces have a variety of straps which help to hold them in place. The straps should be long enough to use easily without getting in the way. You should be able to adjust your brace and get it at just the right angle and with just the right amount of compression. There are a few other things which some of the braces have to help with comfort. Some of them have bilateral hinges to help your ankle stay in place. It is nice if you find ankle braces which will fit into your shoe so you can still work out or do sports. Probably the most important point about these braces? You want to be comfortable by having one which does not slip or bunch up.
Effectiveness
Shock Doctor wants you to have an ankle brace which effective. It needs to comfortably give you the support you need. To be effective a brace needs to be able to comfortably hold your ankle in place while it strengthens and heals.
They accomplish this with gel packs and memory foam. The braces have ergonomic designs and pre-curved tongues. They are anatomically designed to fit your foot and have a non-slip footbed.
On top of being comfortable, they are designed to keep your ankle in proper alignment. There are plastic braces and stays which keep your ankle supported along with straps and laces. The straps are wrapped in Figure 6 or 8 designs which help with adjustable compression so you get the exact support you need.
To be effective they need to be easy to put on and take off, and they need to have good strap closures which are going to keep them in place once they are closed.
Durability
Durability is important when it comes to a brace. This is something you may be wearing for long periods of time and they will have to stand up to workouts, sports, or everyday life. The fabric should be something which will be stretchable and still hold its form for long periods even after being washed. It should not tear or fray easily. The material in most of these braces has an anti-microbial treatment to protect from odor, staining, and deterioration caused by bacteria and microorganisms.
The straps should be durable as well. They should be double stitched and not able to fray or tear, able to be connected over and over without falling apart. Some of the braces have Velcro to attach these straps. The velcro needs to be durable as well and able to stick over and over without tearing or ripping up the material it attaches to. They should have reinforced eyelets.
Expert Interviews & Opinions
Features Ease of Use Comfort Effectiveness Durability 
The ankle braces are designed to help your ankle during the day working against gravity and your daily activity. At night, you do not have either of these so you do not want to interrupt good sleep by wearing a bulky brace to bed. Give your ankle and foot some time to breathe.
An ankle brace is a great tool to support and stabilize an injured ankle while it is healing. However, you do not want to wear it all day every day for long periods of time because it could actually weaken your ankle muscles.
Other Factors to Consider
Materials
You want to make sure the materials used are quality and durable. They use gel cushions, memory foam, and strong plastic for the stays. The material is a breathable elastic mesh. There are sturdy straps which have quality grip closures. Some of the braces also have laces.
Please be sure to check the materials list if you have any skin allergies or sensitivities. Make sure you will not have to deal with skin irritation.
Frequently Asked Questions
q: Are ankle braces bad?
Ankle braces are used to reduce the risk or help with the heal from ankle injuries. People who are wearing them, however, are not immobilized. Most of the time, they only wear braces while playing their sport. There is no evidence of ankle muscles being weaker after an athlete wears an ankle brace during the season. So, like everything else, it is all in how they are used.
q: Are ankle braces bad for knees?
Research agrees that wearing a brace helps to prevent ankle sprains, but not too many studies are done on the effects that wearing an ankle brace can have on your knees. Ankle braces do stabilize the joint and decrease your ankles range of motion, but that also essentially takes out your first shock absorber.
q: How tight should an ankle brace be?
Your ankle brace should fit snugly and be tight enough to restrict the motion of your ankle, but not tight enough to cut off the circulation in your foot. Check your circulation by pinching the nail of your big toe. Then watch to make sure that color returns to the nail once you release it.
q: When should I wear an ankle brace?
You should wear an ankle brace for up to six weeks after your injury during your day to day activities. For athletes, your ankle brace should be able to fit comfortably into whatever shoes you wear during your sport.
q: Can I walk on a sprained ankle?
The good news is, if you can walk immediately after twisting your ankle, you probably have not broken anything. If the ligaments have been only slightly stretched, you should be able to move your foot normally after a few days. Even minor ankle sprains are understandably painful and may be hard to walk on.
Sources
- , Ankle Sprains, Article
- , To Brace Or Not To Brace, Article
- , 5 Ways To Support And Strengthen Your Ankle, Article
- , Brace Yourself, Article
- , Sprained Ankle, Article
