Looking to Protect Your Ankles This Season. Find the Best Brace for Lacrosse in 2023

Looking to Protect Your Ankles This Season. Find the Best Brace for Lacrosse in 2023

Why Ankle Support is Crucial for Lacrosse Players

If you’ve ever played lacrosse, you know that ankle injuries are all too common. The quick cuts, sudden stops, and constant sprinting put a ton of stress on the ankles. A twisted or sprained ankle can sideline a lacrosse player for weeks, so protecting these joints is crucial for any athlete who wants to stay on the field.

That’s where a good ankle brace comes in. The right brace provides compression and stabilization to the joint, limiting unwanted movement and reducing injury risk. For lacrosse players specifically, the ideal brace needs to be lightweight and low-profile enough to fit comfortably into cleats, while still being rigid enough to actually protect the ankle when making quick maneuvers on the turf or grass.

With so many braces on the market these days, how do you know which one is best for lacrosse? I’ve tested out a number of different ankle braces for the sport and found a few that really stand out above the rest.

DonJoy Ankle Ligament Protector

This DonJoy brace is by far my top pick for lacrosse players looking to protect their ankles. It’s rigid and sturdy, providing serious side-to-side stability, while still being slim enough to fit easily into your cleats. I like that it has a figure-6 strap configuration, which replicates how an athletic trainer would tape up an ankle. This helps lock everything into place for maximum support.

Despite the rigid feel, the DonJoy brace still has enough flex to allow an adequate range of motion for running and cutting. I never feel limited wearing it. It just gives me the peace of mind that my ankles are protected. The materials are also light enough that I barely notice the brace during intense gameplay.

While DonJoy braces don’t come cheap, I think the investment is well worth it if you tend to suffer from unstable ankles or have a history of sprains. This is the kind of brace built for the rigors of lacrosse, with quality and durability to match. Considering how painful and debilitating an ankle injury can be, the cost seems minimal in the grand scheme of things.

McDavid Ankle Brace with Stabilizer Straps

For a more budget-friendly option, the McDavid ankle brace provides impressive stability without breaking the bank. It uses vinyl plastic supports on both sides of the ankle to prevent rolling and inversion/eversion sprains. These supports are thicker and more substantial than what you find with many basic ankle sleeves.

The McDavid brace also incorporates crossing stabilizer straps that mimic athletic taping techniques. You can really crank down on these straps to lock the ankle securely in place inside the cleat. Again, this helps minimize unwanted ankle movements during intense lacrosse activity.

Compared to the DonJoy brace, the McDavid doesn’t feel quite as rigid through lateral movements. But for the price, it still offers excellent protection and stability for most lacrosse players. As long as you tighten those straps properly before each game, you can feel confident that your ankles won’t be rolling over anytime soon.

Zamst A2-DX Ankle Brace

The Zamst A2-DX is another excellent mid-range brace developed specifically with ankle stability in mind. It provides sturdy support against inversion and eversion movements, thanks to rigid plastic supports along both sides of the ankle. These supports are designed to fit ergonomically around the ankle bone for superior comfort.

This brace also uses an “X-strap” system across the front of the ankle to limit mobility in that direction. You can tighten these straps as needed until you feel fully supported making cuts from side to side. The materials are thin and breathable, creating a barely-there feel during activity.

For lacrosse players who don’t necessarily have ankle instability when walking but want extra support for high intensity direction changes, the Zamst A2-DX is an ideal choice. It allows natural motion but kicks in with rigid support when you need those sharp lateral movements on the field.

Final Thoughts

As a lacrosse player, your ankles take a beating. All those starts, stops, cuts and jumps put tremendous stress on the joint. Without proper protection, an ankle injury is practically inevitable. A high-quality brace provides critical stabilization and compression to keep your ankles safe throughout an entire game or practice.

The DonJoy, McDavid, and Zamst braces reviewed above are all great options to protect against the rigors of lacrosse. Focus on finding a brace that’s rigid against lateral movements but still flexible enough for running and cutting. The brace should fit snugly around the ankle bone for optimal comfort and stability. Taking these steps will give you the best chance at staying healthy and on the field all season long.

Types of Ankle Braces for Lacrosse: Pros and Cons

As a lacrosse player, keeping your ankles healthy and protected is a top priority. Those quick cuts, dodges, and rolls put your ankles at serious risk of sprains and other injuries if you don’t have the right support. But with so many ankle brace options out there, how do you know which type is best for your needs?

I’ve tested my fair share of braces over the years and found pros and cons to the various styles. Here’s an overview of the main types of ankle braces for lacrosse and what you can expect from each.

Rigid Braces

Rigid ankle braces are designed to completely lock down the ankle joint and prevent any inversion, eversion, or twisting. They use firm plastic or metal supports on both sides of the ankle to create a virtual splint around the joint.

Pros: Excellent at limiting ankle movements that lead to sprains. Provide a feeling of serious stability and protection.

Cons: Can feel very restrictive when running or making cuts. Difficult to fit comfortably into cleats due to bulky design.

Semi-Rigid Braces

Semi-rigid braces provide a middle ground between rigid and flexible support. They use plastic or metal struts embedded in fabric to allow some ankle mobility while still protecting against rolling and twisting.

Pros: Lightweight feel compared to rigid options. Allow more natural movement while still stabilizing the ankle.

Cons: May not provide enough support for players with chronic ankle instability or past injuries.

Soft Braces

Soft ankle braces are made entirely from flexible, breathable fabrics like neoprene. They offer compression support around the joint but have limited stability features.

Pros: Very comfortable and easy to wear. Don’t restrict ankle mobility much at all.

Cons: Minimal protection against sprains for such an intense, ankle-heavy sport like lacrosse.

Lace-Up Braces

Lace-up braces use wraparound Velcro straps that can be tightened to customize the fit and compression. The adjustable straps help lock down the ankle to prevent rolling.

Pros: Highly adjustable to find your perfect fit and desired support level. Straps distribute pressure evenly.

Cons: Can loosen during play if not re-tightened frequently. Don’t provide as much structure as braces with plastic/metal supports.

Hinged Braces

Hinged braces allow forward and backward ankle mobility but have a rigid framework to prevent lateral motions. Side struts with joints connect to the heel and forefoot.

Pros: Permit natural running/cutting movements while stabilizing medial/lateral movements. Great for foot and ankle injuries.

Cons: Bulky design can be difficult to fit in cleats. Hinged joints add potential weak points.

Final Thoughts

When choosing the right ankle brace for your lacrosse needs, consider your injury history, severity of ankle instability, position requirements, and personal fit preferences. For maximal protection, rigid and hinged braces limit ankle mobility the most against sprains and rolls.

But if you want a balance of stability and maneuverability, semi-rigid or lace-up braces allow for more natural motion while still guarding against excess inversion/eversion. And don’t forget that proper fit is key – make sure any brace you choose locks in tightly around your ankle bone for optimal injury prevention.

At the end of the day, any brace is better than no brace for such a fast-paced, ankle-intensive sport. Take the time to find the right support so you can keep your ankles healthy and ready for action all season long.

Important Features to Look for in a Lacrosse Ankle Brace

Ankle injuries are unfortunately very common in the fast-paced, physical sport of lacrosse. From rolled ankles to high ankle sprains, protecting your ankles as a lacrosse player is crucial. A quality lacrosse-specific ankle brace can help stabilize the ankle joint, restrict unwanted motion, and prevent those all too common ankle injuries on the field. But with so many braces on the market, how do you know which one is right for you?

Here are the key features to look for when shopping for the best ankle brace for lacrosse:

Targeted Support and Stabilization

A lacrosse ankle brace should provide stability and compression directly to the ankle joint, without restricting mobility elsewhere. Look for a brace with bilateral hinge or spring systems to control front-to-back motion and prevent rolling. Padded straps add compression to stabilize the joint. Low-profile lateral supports also help guard against unnatural ankle inversion or eversion. Opt for a brace that stabilizes the ankle with targeted compression, without limiting your mobility or comfort.

Secure Yet Adjustable Fit

The brace must stay firmly and comfortably in place, even through intense play. Look for multiple adjustable straps with Velcro closures to customize and secure the fit. The brace should be snug but not constricting. Padding under straps prevents any pinching or chafing. Proper sizing and adjustability ensures the brace doesn’t slide around, yet remains flexible enough for dynamic motions like cutting or dodging.

Lightweight and Breathable Construction

Lacrosse requires constant motion and speed, so wearing an overly bulky or heavy brace could slow you down. Look for a brace made of lightweight, breathable materials. Open mesh panels, perforations and moisture-wicking fabric help prevent overheating. Streamlined designs minimize bulk without sacrificing support. The brace should contour to your ankle without adding noticeable weight, keeping you light and quick on your feet.

Low-Profile Design

For optimal comfort and performance, the brace design should be minimalist and won’t interfere with your shoe or sock. Look for a slim, seamless profile and tapered edges so there is no rubbing or abrasion against your ankle. If you can comfortably wear a sock over the brace, even better. The last thing you want is the brace causing blisters or hot spots during play. Prioritize a smooth, low-profile brace that fits seamlessly into your uniform.

Durable Materials

Your ankle brace needs to be able to withstand the rigors of competition. Look for abrasion-resistant fabric that won’t rip or fray even if stepped on by cleats. Hinges and stabilizers should be reinforced metal or plastic rather than flimsy plastic. Ensure closures are securely stitched. While you want the brace to be lightweight, the construction also needs to be sturdy and built to last through game after game.

Lacrosse-Specific Design

For the best support and performance, look for a brace engineered specifically for the lateral motions of lacrosse. Key details like angled straps, non-slip linings and flexible bilateral hinges optimize the brace for the starting, stopping, cutting and pivoting you do as a lacrosse player. The brace should move naturally with your ankle during play. Ankle braces meant for other sports may not provide the right type of targeted stabilization for lacrosse athletes.

Moisture-Wicking Lining

Lacrosse is an intense sport, and your feet and ankles can get hot and sweaty inside your cleats. A moisture-wicking lining or inner sleeve helps keep your brace dry and comfortable, preventing chafing or irritation. Breathable, sweat-wicking materials maintain comfort mile after mile up and down the field. Some linings also provide anti-odor properties to help your gear stay fresher longer.

Custom Options for Extra Support

If you are recovering from an ankle injury or want some extra protection, look for custom brace options. These offer higher degrees of stabilization through custom-made rigid supports molded directly to your ankle. They limit motion more completely while providing targeted compression. Custom braces should only be worn for recovery though, not full-time play. Work with your doctor to determine if a custom brace could benefit you post-injury.

Protecting your ankles should be a top priority as a lacrosse player. Finding the right brace comes down to balancing stabilization, comfort and breathability. Considering these key features will help you select a quality brace that supports your game and helps prevent painful ankle injuries all season long. Trust a specialized lacrosse ankle brace to keep you confident and injury-free on the field.

Our Top Pick: DonJoy Ankle Ligament Protector

Looking to protect your ankles this season? When searching for the best ankle brace for lacrosse in 2023, one option stands out from the pack: the DonJoy Ankle Ligament Protector.

As a lacrosse player, your ankles take a beating. Sudden stops and starts, abrupt changes in direction, and constant motion put your ankles at risk for painful sprains and rolls. Having a quality brace provides compression and stabilizes the ankle joint, giving you the support you need to play confidently. When comparing the many ankle braces on the market, the DonJoy Ankle Ligament Protector emerges as the top pick for lacrosse athletes.

Here’s a closer look at why this brace rises above the competition:

Targeted Ankle Support

The DonJoy brace excels at compressing and stabilizing the ankle joint without restricting mobility elsewhere. It features bilateral spring hinges that control front-to-back ankle motion while still allowing natural side-to-side movement. Integrated strap channels lock the brace firmly around the joint. You get customizable compression directly where you need it most.

Lightweight and Breathable

Built with lightweight composite materials, this brace adds minimal bulk. Air vents and mesh panels ensure breathability to avoid overheating. It contours smoothly to the ankle with a slim profile that fits comfortably into your shoe. You can move freely without extra weight dragging you down.

Moisture-Wicking Lining

The inside lining wicks away moisture and sweat, keeping you dry even during intense play. The antimicrobial fabric also resists odor buildup. No more sweaty, stinky ankles after hours on the field! The smooth inner lining prevents irritation and hot spots.

Minimalist, Streamlined Design

With its low-profile design, the DonJoy seamlessly integrates into your uniform. Tapered edges prevent abrasion against your ankle or shoe. It fits flush to the skin for second-skin flexibility, avoiding any uncomfortable pinching or chafing. The streamlined look and feel lets you focus on your game, not your gear.

Customizable Fit

Integrated closure systems let you micro-adjust the compression and snugness of the brace. You can customize the support level as needed throughout the season as your ankle strengthens or fatigues. The contoured shape and padded straps conform to your ankle without rubbing or pinching.

Durable Construction

This workhorse brace is made to last through game after game. The hinges consist of reinforced injected plastic rather than flimsy bendable metal. High-abrasion straps and fabric hold up to sticks, cleats and constant motion. It provides stable support all season long.

Specialized Design for Lacrosse

As the name implies, the Ankle Ligament Protector stabilizes the ankle joint for the specific demands of lacrosse. The innovative bilateral spring hinges move naturally with your ankle while resisting rolls and twists. Forefoot and heel locks enhance control. This brace is engineered for multi-directional lacrosse motions.

Countless lacrosse players rely on DonJoy braces to stay protected on the field. It remains a top choice of ankle support recommended by athletic trainers. If you’re looking for the best way to defend your ankles this season, the DonJoy Ankle Ligament Protector delivers the targeted support and comfort lacrosse athletes need.

DonJoy: A Trusted Brand for Ankle Support

When searching for the best ankle support for lacrosse, one brand comes up again and again as a trusted leader in bracing: DonJoy. With a proven track record in ankle injury prevention and treatment, DonJoy remains a go-to for lacrosse players looking to protect themselves on the field.

DonJoy is a medical device company that engineers orthopedic braces and supports for both athletic and rehabilitation purposes. They are considered pioneers in the bracing industry, with over 40 years of experience researching, designing and manufacturing ankle braces. Here’s a closer look at why DonJoy is synonymous with ankle support in the lacrosse world:

Specialized Lacrosse Braces

DonJoy produces braces designed specifically for the rigors of lacrosse, including the Ankle Ligament Protector and Strong Ankle braces. These feature innovative technologies like patent-pending LoPro hinges and Exoform shaping that support ankle motion in the lateral and forward/backward planes critical in lacrosse. DonJoy studies how ankles move in the sport to create braces optimized for lacrosse athletes.

Trusted by Athletic Trainers

DonJoy braces are recommended over and over by athletic trainers working with lacrosse teams. Trainers trust DonJoy to deliver the right blend of stabilization, comfort and flexibility needed to prevent ankle injuries and help players recover from existing injuries. Many lacrosse programs make DonJoy braces the official standard for the team.

Proven Protection Backed by Research

Extensive medical research backs up the protection DonJoy braces provide. Studies show DonJoy ankle braces reduce ankle injury incidence rates and severity. DonJoy puts their products through rigorous biomechanical testing and clinical evaluations to demonstrate their ability to stabilize the ankle joint under the pressures of sports like lacrosse.

Athlete Tested and Approved

From youth to college to professional levels, lacrosse athletes choose DonJoy braces over and over to protect their ankles. DonJoy is the official bracing partner of Major League Lacrosse, and you’ll see their braces on MLS players week after week. The braces stand up to elite training and competition.

Custom Options for Post-Injury Care

DonJoy offers custom-fitted rigid bracing systems to aid in recovery after ankle injuries. Their custom options provide a higher level of stabilization and support during rehab. While too rigid for full-time play, they help athletes transition back on the field after an ankle sprain or fracture.

Cutting-Edge Technology and Innovation

DonJoy continually pushes the boundaries of bracing with new innovations to improve fit, function and performance. Their state-of-the-art motion capture lab studies live human movement to then engineer better braces. New technologies like LoPro hinges and Dynamic Wrap strapping set their braces apart.

Trusted Brand Name Reputation

The DonJoy name is synonymous with advanced bracing. Athletes recognize DonJoy as the premium brand. They trust the proven protection and comfort the brand delivers. DonJoy’s reputation gives athletes confidence they are getting the very best in ankle support.

When your ankles are on the line, you want the tried and true support of DonJoy. Their pioneering braces leverage decades of research and athlete testing to provide unmatched protection. Trust the DonJoy advantage to keep your ankles safe shift after shift, game after game.

Comparing DonJoy Models: Performance, RocketSoc, Assist

Within the DonJoy brand, athletes have several ankle brace models to choose from. Three of their most popular lacrosse-specific options are the Performance, RocketSoc and Assist ankle braces. While all deliver DonJoy’s signature quality and protection, there are some key differences between the models.

Here is an overview comparing the DonJoy Performance, RocketSoc and Assist ankle braces for lacrosse:

Stabilization and Support

The Performance brace provides elite-level support with its LoPro hinges and Exoform shell for total ankle control. The RocketSoc delivers slightly less rigid stabilization while maintaining medially/laterally flexibility. The Assist is the most flexible, ideal for compression without restricting motion.

Construction and Durability

The Performance brace features carbon composite supports and durable aircraft-grade aluminum hinges. The RocketSoc uses glass fiber supports with some aluminum components. The Assist relies on reinforced polymer supports throughout. All provide excellent durability.

Fit and Comfort

The slim, streamlined Performance brace fits seamlessly into shoes and socks. The bulkier RocketSoc has a more prominent stabilizer but still tapers for a lower edge profile. The flexible Assist is the lightest with breathable straps conforming to the ankle.

Breathability

The Performance and Assist both incorporate ventilated zones, mesh panels and moisture-wicking linings. The RocketSoc relies on perforations for some airflow but runs warmer than the other two.

Customization

All three braces allow athletes to fine-tune the straps and supports as needed. The Performance and RocketSoc also come in customized prescription options for a 100% personal fit.

Price Point

The Performance brace sits at the premium price point given its carbon composite supports. The Assist is the most affordable as the entry-level option. The RocketSoc hits a happy medium between advanced support and price.

Ideal User

The rigid Performance brace suits players needing maximum ankle stabilization, such as post-injury or high-intensity pivoting positions. The flexible Assist fits those needing basic compression and swelling reduction. The RocketSoc hits the sweet spot for most lacrosse players.

While each brace has its own strengths, all DonJoy models utilize proven technologies to support lacrosse ankles. Consider how much stabilization you need, along with budget, to choose the right DonJoy brace for you. And know you’re getting trusted protection no matter which DonJoy you choose.

Alternatives to DonJoy: Bauerfeind, McDavid, Mueller

DonJoy is considered the gold standard when it comes to ankle support for lacrosse. However, some other brands make quality braces as well. Three alternatives worth considering are Bauerfeind, McDavid, and Mueller.

Here’s an overview of how these brands compare to industry leader DonJoy:

Bauerfeind Sports Braces

Like DonJoy, German brand Bauerfeind focuses on medical-grade bracing. Their braces offer similar rigid stabilization but in a slimmer, lower-profile design. The streamlined construction integrates seamlessly into shoes. However, their lacrosse-specific options are more limited compared to DonJoy.

McDavid Ankle Braces

McDavid is the budget-friendly alternative, providing basic support and protection at a fraction of the price. Their lace-up and strap braces work well for compression and swelling prevention. However, the rigid plastic hinges may not match DonJoy’s LoPro system for true ankle stabilization.

Mueller Sports Medicine

Mueller braces provide quality at an affordable price point. They offer more adjustment options than McDavid. However, their bulky, wrap-around style may not suit players looking for a slimmer, more integrated ankle brace design like DonJoy’s.

Brand Reputation and Trust

No brand matches DonJoy’s reputation and name recognition as the leader in bracing. Bauerfeind and Mueller have strong followings but lack the star power and endorsement of DonJoy. McDavid is recognized primarily for its budget price point, not premium performance.

Research and Testing

DonJoy conducts extensive biomechanics research and clinical testing to prove their braces’ effectiveness. Competitors’ offerings generally lack the same degree of lab testing and injury prevention statistics behind them.

Fit and Comfort

DonJoy braces tend to integrate into shoes and socks better than alternatives thanks to their streamlined, tapered profiles. Brands like Mueller and McDavid run bulkier, while Bauerfeind’s slim braces may sacrifice some performance to shave down size.

Durability

The aircraft-grade aluminum hinges and carbon composite frames of DonJoy braces have outstanding durability. Other brands tend to use plastic frames and hinges that may wear down faster over time.

While DonJoy maintains the top spot, some competitors offer viable alternatives. Bauerfeind provides comparable medical-grade support, while McDavid and Mueller give budget options. However, no brand fully matches the proven reputation and ankle protection of DonJoy braces.

Finding the Right Level of Stability and Protection

With the many ankle brace options for lacrosse, one key factor is determining how much stability and restriction of motion you need. The level of protection depends on several considerations:

Your Position

Your role on the field impacts the forces your ankles must withstand. Defenders repeatedly backpedal, pivot and change direction to mark opponents. Midfielders cover large areas of the field, sprinting up and down. Goalies squat and react quickly in the crease. Choose a brace tuned for your position’s movements.

Playing Surface

Outdoor grass fields allow cleats to grip and release smoothly during cuts. Indoor turf puts more tension on ankles during twists. Harder playing surfaces call for higher stability braces to counteract shear forces.

Bracing Needs

If you have a history of recurrent ankle sprains or are coming back from an injury, a rigid brace immobilizes the joint during vulnerable movements. Those with stable ankles may only need light compression and swelling reduction.

Personal Preference

Some athletes favor a barely-there brace for maximum freedom, while others prefer the locked-in feeling of a rigid sleeve. Think about your comfort level and what gives confidence your ankles are secure.

Playing Style

A fast, mobile midfielder may opt for a flexible brace that doesn’t impede their running and cutting. More physical defensive players might choose maximum protection against blows down low near the goal.

Brace Design and Construction

The brace’s design and material determines how much natural motion it allows. Rigid carbon or metal supports lock the joint, while dynamic fabric and straps provide flexible compression.

Weight of Brace

Bulkier, heavier braces immobilize the joint but may slow you down over time. Lighter braces integrate into your footwork without adding noticeable weight.

Consider all these factors to choose a brace offering stability while maintaining as much natural mobility as possible. Ankle braces shouldn’t make you feel completely rigid and restrained. Work with your athletic trainer to find the sweet spot of protection and playability.

Getting the Proper Fit for Maximum Comfort

Finding the best ankle brace for lacrosse isn’t just about support and stabilization. The brace also must fit your ankle properly for optimal comfort on the field. Here are tips for achieving the ideal fit:

Measure Carefully

Before selecting a brace size, measure the circumference of your ankle at the joint and a few inches above and below. This ensures you get the tightest part of the tapered brace in the right spot with no pinching or gaps.

Mind the Shoe Fit

Consider how the brace will fit with your cleats – will it limit toe room or make the shoe feel too snug? Try on shoes while wearing the brace to test for any fit issues.

Prioritize Adjustability

Look for multiple Velcro straps so you can tweak the tightness and positioning until the brace feels just right. Slippery linings help prevent binding against the skin when adjusting fit.

Focus on Seamless Construction

Avoid seams, ridges or rough edges that could irritate the ankle during play. Seek soft, seamless materials against the skin for maximum comfort.

Consider Sweat and Swelling

Make sure the brace isn’t too tight initially, as sweating and swelling during games may lead to pinching and pain. Leave a little wiggle room for your ankle as it moves and perspires.

Try Lace-Up Styles

For a truly custom fit, lace-up braces allow you to tighten and loosen zones across the ankle as needed. However, this takes more time to put on and adjust.

Break It In

Wear the brace during practices to allow it to properly mold to your ankle’s shape. This helps maximize comfort come game time.

With careful sizing, adjustment features, and a seamless interior, your ankle brace should feel like a second skin. A properly fitted brace supports your ankles without any distractions or discomfort during play.

Ankle Braces vs. Tape: Which is Better?

When trying to protect vulnerable ankles, lacrosse players have two main options: ankle braces or athletic tape. Which works better for preventing ankle injuries? Here’s a comparison of the pros and cons:

Stability and Support

Ankle braces with hinges or reinforced sides provide structure to prevent rolling. Tape compresses but doesn’t truly stabilize the joint. Braces limit inversion/eversion more effectively.

Durability

Braces are reusable for an entire season or more. Tape loses adhesiveness and needs replaced every game or two. Over time, braces provide more value.

Comfort

Braces are designed for comfort with padding and breathable materials. Tape can bunch, rub and irritate skin over time. However, braces may feel bulky at first.

Convenience

Braces simply slip on and off while tape requires time to carefully apply pre-wrap and strips. Braces make pre-game prep much quicker.

Adaptability

Tape can be endlessly customized to wrap any joint for any injury. Braces only fit ankles unless specifically designed for other joints.

Playing Style

For players who rely on speed and ankle flexion, tape allows for more natural motion. Braces provide better support for positions requiring quick cuts and stops.

Swelling Accommodation

Braces often run snug and can’t stretch much to account for mid-game swelling. Tape application can adapt as ankles inflame during play.

Weather Conditions

Heat and humidity can cause tape to peel off faster. Very rainy conditions can compromise tape adhesion as well. Braces withstand all weather conditions.

For most lacrosse players, braces provide better overall ankle injury protection and convenience. But tape still fills important niche needs like customization and swelling accommodation during play.

Caring for Your Brace: Cleaning, Breaking In, Replacement

A quality lacrosse ankle brace represents an investment in injury prevention and your playing career. Proper care and maintenance will keep your brace providing protection season after season. Here are some brace care tips:

Cleaning

Use gentle soap and warm water to clean dirt and sweat off your brace. Never submerge in water fully. Wipe down carefully after each use and allow to fully air dry before storing.

Deodorizing

Spray inside your brace with an antibacterial deodorizer after games to keep odor-causing bacteria from growing. Bake in the sun periodically to dry out and sanitize the interior.

Breaking In

Wear the brace during practices to allow your ankle to adjust to the snug fit. Breaking it in helps maximize on-field performance and mobility.

Inspecting for Damage

Check for ripped straps, damaged hinges, loose screws or worn padding regularly. Discontinue use if any part of the brace is compromised.

Replacing Straps

Many manufacturers let you order replacement straps if the closures become too stretched out over time. Swap straps annually or when Velcro loses adhesiveness.

Timing Replacement

Plan to replace your brace every 2-3 seasons with consistent use for maximum support and hygiene. The lifespan may be shorter with very frequent high-intensity play.

Comparing Newer Models

When it’s time to replace your brace, check if the manufacturer has released updated versions with new innovations to improve upon your previous model.

With dedicated brace care, your ankles will stay reliably protected practice after practice, season after season.

When to Wear Your Ankle Brace for Lacrosse

Getting the most out of your ankle brace requires knowing the right times to utilize it. Follow these guidelines on when to lace up your brace:

Games

Always wear your brace for full protection during games when you need to make quick cuts, jump for balls, and absorb incidental contact. Competition is when ankle injuries are most likely to occur.

Practices

Consider wearing your brace for intense, game-speed practices to get adjusted to moving with it. For lighter practices, you may opt to go brace-free to maximize ankle strength and mobility.

Drills Requiring Sharp Cuts

Moves like dodges, jab steps, and scooping ground balls involve hard lateral cuts that strain ankles. Brace up for practice drills emphasizing these motions.

Indoor Sessions

The increased traction of indoor turf puts more torque on ankles compared to grass. Add your brace when moving practice or games inside.

Coming Off an Injury

After an ankle sprain, wearing your brace full-time during recovery provides extra stabilization as ligaments heal and regain strength.

History of Instability

Players prone to rolling or spraining should wear ankle braces consistently for prevention until those issues have fully resolved.

Very Fatigued

Late in intense games when ankles are tired, your brace supports unstable joints as conditioning starts to fade.

Wearing your brace smartly during the highest-risk activities will provide protection right when you need it most.

Preventing Other Common Lacrosse Injuries

While ankle sprains receive significant attention, lacrosse players are vulnerable to several other orthopedic injuries. Here’s a quick guide to preventing some other common lacrosse injuries:

Shoulder Injuries

Johns Hopkins research shows lacrosse has the highest rate of shoulder injury among youth sports. Focus on proper tackling techniques, balanced strength training, and correct stick positioning to protect shoulders.

Hamstring Strains

Sudden sprints and quick changes of pace during midfield transitions frequently strain hamstrings. Maintain hamstring flexibility and gradually build up high-speed running volume.

Knee Injuries

Knee ligament sprains and meniscus tears often occur when players pivot to change direction with a planted foot. Wear supportive braces and keep knees properly aligned when dodging and cutting.

Back Injuries

The crouched lacrosse stance can overload the back. Strengthen core muscles, maintain proper posture, and take periodic rest breaks during lengthy practices.

Foot Stress Fractures

Repetitive stopping, starting, and pivoting produces high foot impact forces. Gradually increase running volume to allow bones to adapt. Evaluate footwear stability.

While ankles take a beating in lacrosse, being vigilant about preventing other common injuries is key to staying game-ready all season long.

Expert Tips for Ankle Injury Prevention

In addition to wearing an ankle brace, there are other proactive steps lacrosse players can take to avoid injuries:

Strengthen Lower Legs

Calf raises, resistance band exercises, and balancing on an unstable surface build smaller stabilizing muscles critical for ankle support.

Increase Ankle Flexibility

Yoga, active ankle stretches, and using a foam roller improve range of motion, allowing ankles to move freely within their natural limits.

Train Agility and Balance

Practice footwork ladder and agility cone drills to teach ankles to react and recover from multi-directional movements.

Warm Up Ankles Before Play

Gradually increase intensity, blood flow, and range of motion with dynamic stretches to prep ankles for demanding play.

Tape Ankles as Needed

Lightly tape unstable ankles before games and practice for extra support until strength improves.

Consider Orthotics

Inserts or custom shoes realign the foot properly from the ground up to prevent overpronation during play.

Rest Immediately When Injured

Listen to your body and stop playing through ankle pain, which can worsen sprains. RICE injuries immediately.

A proactive, integrative injury prevention approach is key to keeping ankles resilient against lacrosse’s demands.

Give Your Ankles the Support They Need This Season

As an intense, fast-paced sport, lacrosse places huge demands on ankles. Don’t leave your ankles vulnerable this season. Invest in a quality brace designed specifically for the rigors faced by lacrosse athletes. Your ankles will thank you.

Prioritize features like a customized fit, breathable yet sturdy construction, and the ideal amount of stabilization for your position and needs. With the right brace from trusted brands like DonJoy, you can play confidently knowing your ankles have the support they require. Prevent painful sprains and keep your focus solely on competing, not on worrying about your ankles.

A quality lacrosse ankle brace represents just a small investment compared to the cost of missed games and practices recovering from an injury. Protect your ankles now so you can perform your best through the entire season and beyond. Your talent and work ethic have taken you this far—don’t let fragile ankles derail your progress.

Lacrosse will test your ankles shift after shift. Don’t let weak ankles betray you at the most critical moments. Give them the support system they deserve with the best lacrosse ankle brace for YOUR game. Then get out on the field and dominate!