Wearing uncomfortable shoes is the leading cause of foot pain. As such, avoid shoes that are too loose or overly narrow. Wearing shoes with excess wear and tear can also contribute to foot problems, so remember to update your footwear on a regular basis. Ankle-Stabilizing-Orthosis (ASO): These braces provide low-profile support and stability for both chronic and acute ankle instability. To narrow down our list, we looked at adjustability and whether the ankle brace was machine washable. We also considered how easy it was to put on and take off, as many users have difficulty reaching their feet. Finally, we looked at the price point to decide which ankle braces provided the best value. Based on these factors, we compiled a list of the best ankle braces on the market. Kerhervé HA, Samozino P, Descombe F, et al. Calf compression sleeves change biomechanics but not performance and physiological responses in trail running. Front Physiol. 2017;8:247. doi:10.3389/fphys.2017.00247

As a long distance runner, I’ve unfortunately suffered a few injuries in my career. Whenever I feel the strain or twinge of an oncoming injury, I immediately start using a compression sleeve to alleviate swelling. This list includes a variety of products that I have personally used and swear by, as well as the favorites from my trail running community. Considering materials used, sizing, and stretchiness, you'll find the best ankle sleeves available for runners today below. Robert L. Parisien, MD, orthopedic sports medicine surgeon at Mount Sinai in New York City and team physician for US Ski & Snowboard and USA Fencing Ideally, you should be measured to determine the right sleeve length or cuff circumference for you. The leg compression devices we reviewed come with one-size-fits-all sleeves, and some come with extenders to widen and/or elongate the sleeves. If you’re shorter or taller than the average person, you might want to look for a device sized for you specifically. Some manufacturers offer small, medium or large fits. Garment Adjustability When looking for an ankle brace, Dr. McEneaney recommends finding one that's both comfortable to wear and fits inside your shoe. "Bulkier braces may feel more supportive, but they are no good to you if they don't fit in your shoe."Raetz J, Wilson M, Collins K. Varicose veins: diagnosis and treatment. Am Fam Physician. 2019;99(11):682-688.

Many calf compression sleeves are made from a blend of nylon and spandex, but some are crafted from other materials, like cotton, neoprene, or bamboo. Nylon will feel sturdy and stretchy, spandex will feel stretchy, cotton will feel soft and breathable, neoprene will feel smooth and breathable, and bamboo will feel soft. Depending on the device, there may be one or multiple air chambers and precise, customizable compression that occurs at a fixed pressure and interval. The device may cover the entire leg or just the lower part of the leg. How Do You Use a Leg Compression Machine? Delivering 12.6 to 21 millimeters of mercury of graduated compression, it's milder than some options, which makes it a good sleeve to start with if you've never worn one before. What to Look for in Calf Compression Sleeves QuantityMany compression sleeve brands offer size charts you can use to determine which sleeve size is right for you. Simply measure the circumference of the largest part of your calf, and compare it to the size chart. https://www.vivehealth.com/collections/sequential-compression/products/compression-foot-and-calf-massager?aff=10 You'll also want to look for an ankle brace that provides stability and keeps your foot in place during activities. "An ankle brace should provide enough support to decrease symptoms while increasing ankle instability," says Robert L. Parisien, MD, orthopedic sports medicine surgeon at Mount Sinai and team physician for US Ski & Snowboard and USA Fencing. "However, it must be noted that following a traumatic ankle sprain, all patients should undergo formal focused physical therapy to work on stretching, strengthening, as well as neuromuscular and proprioceptive training." Dermont T, Morizot L, Bouhaddi M, Ménétrier A. Changes in tissue oxygen saturation in response to different calf compression sleeves. J Sports Med (Hindawi Publ Corp). 2015;2015:857904. doi:10.1155/2015/857904