Rigid vs. Non-Rigid Ankle braces?

Question

I have a really weak ankle (my left) and i sprained it in the summer of 2010 and had to wear a brace (Active Ankle T-1 RIGID..) and wore it all season and i am in an off season for club till the summer when volleyball open gyms start up again!

I am a backrow player but we practice front row sometimes but i'm usually a DS, libero, or setter so i'm diving and running everywhere! I have the T-1's and they ripped partially and i am wondering if the lace up (non-rigid) are better for comfort or protection!

What position are you and what do you wear (as in ankle braces/brand)?
and what do you recommend for comfort? protection?

Thanks to everyone who answers and Merry Christmas! :)

Answer 1

So I am a middle but I play front and back row. Last year i seriously sprained my ankle and once I could return to play, i started off wearing an air cast because my ankle was so torn up. I really liked the air cast but it was really awkward to wear because everyone gave me odd looks haha so I switched to the rigid braces once they let me! The rigid braces are the best ankle-wise, but if you are at risk for a knee injury, they are not good because they cause excessive mobility in the knee which could lead to the tearing of the ACL, meniscus, etc., but the soft braces are good for your knees but provide less protection for your ankles. If you are really having trouble deciding, go to the doctor and they will tell you the best one for you! merry christmas and good luck!



http://www.volleyballadvisors.com/volleyball-ankle-supports.html

Answer 2

I know how you feel with the ankle braces. I sprained my right really badly and have been wearing the rigid active ankle ever since.When I first came back I tried the soft lace up ones, but I actually found them to be more irritating for me, and as a middle hitter I didn't find they gave enough support. After a few months of the soft ones I got a pair of rigid and they are sooooo much better. I feel much more supported and confident especially when i jump for blocks. I'm surprised to hear your rigids ripped, but in that case I wouldnt say its from the running, but rather that they give good protection. Also especially in your side to side movement as a libero I would watch your foot position, they should be forward facing and not give your ankles a chance to turn. Personally I'd stick with rigid, but if they really bother you, then try lace ups. Good luck :)

Answer 3

They are each well. If you propose on plenty of reducing, decide on the DeWalt. If no longer, the Rigid could be very well. Also to save lots of you cash, the Hitachi is a VERY well miter noticed and is less expensive than the 2 above. You can get it on e bay and even LOWES at an overly fair cost. I've had the DeWalt, Delta, Craftsman, and many others...and I just like the Hitachi greater. I am a contractor and use the miter saws plenty.