The BetterGuard 2.0
Ankle brace for hiking, trail running, climbing, and all things outdoors
- Ankle support brace for hiking
- Designed in partnership with NBA Launchpad
- Ultra-lightweight and durable on uneven terrain
Elevate your hiking experience with The BetterGuard
The ultimate ankle brace for hiking, trail running, and all things outdoors. The BetterGuard is extra lightweight, versatile, and sleekly designed for all-day ankle protection from the streets to the trails.
The best ankle support for your hiking shoes
Stop searching for the perfect hiking boots with ankle support, and start conquering any terrain with confidence. The BetterGuard ankle brace is built for adventure, offering the support and stability you need to own the trail. From rugged mountain hikes to technical single-track, experience unrestricted movement and complete peace of mind on every step.
Why we made this
Millions of ankle injuries happen every year
The American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society estimates 25,000 people sprain their ankle every day in the U.S. alone. Whether hiking, climbing, trail running, or playing sports — prioritizing proper ankle health and recovery after an injury is crucial for anyone who loves to take the adventure outdoors. Despite the millions of ankle injuries sustained annually, the true incidence may be underestimated, as fewer than half of individuals with ankle sprains seek medical attention from healthcare professionals.
HOW IT WORKS
We built the best ankle brace for hiking based on science, not tradition
Forget everything you thought you knew about ankle braces. The BetterGuard is engineered with next-level support, keeping you light on your feet and free to explore. We're all about evidence-based innovation, creating a brace that moves with you, not against you. Hit the trail with confidence, knowing science (and a touch of magic) is on your side.
BEHIND THE DESIGNWhy you'll love The BetterGuard
From the track to the trail — no other hiking ankle brace gives you more
Foot and ankle mobility
Keep exploring with the only hiking ankle brace that lets you move freely with supportive mobility that won't hold you back.
Adaptive ankle stability
Lightweight design with dynamic support keeps your ankles happy on uneven surfaces and the roughest terrain. In the event you start to twist or roll, adaptive technology activates and stabilizes your ankle joint up to 4x faster than your body.
Return to the trail. Faster.
Minor twists and ankle turns can't slow you down. The BetterGuard gives you the mobility and support you need for a faster return to the trail.*
Ultra-lightweight performance
The BetterGuard is made with breathable, lightweight compression making it 40% lighter than traditional ankle braces.
Adjustable fit
No need to switch between hiking boots and trail running shoes. BetterGuard adjusts perfectly for a comfortable, secure fit inside your favorite footwear.
Adventure approved
From the city to the great outdoors, The BetterGuard can help protect your ankles and keep you exploring the boundaries whether you're a pro athlete or a weekend warrior.
Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
Should you wear an ankle brace for hiking?
Ankle support for hiking can provide extra stability and confidence, especially on uneven terrain. It can help prevent ankle sprains, a common injury on hikes, and reduce pain and swelling. A hiking ankle brace can be especially helpful if you have weak ankles or suffer from chronic ankle instability. When determining which ankle brace you want to wear, consider your experience level, the difficulty of the hike, and any past ankle injuries to decide which hiking ankle brace is right for you.
Do hiking boots protect against ankle injuries?
The most recent research shows that high-top hiking boots with ankle support have little or no protective effect when it comes to preventing ankle injuries. That's why serious hikers and trail runners look to pair their favorite shoes with a hiking ankle brace. For strong ankle support, especially on challenging hikes, consider pairing your footwear with the best hiking ankle brace for additional stability and peace of mind. Look for braces designed specifically for hiking that provide support without compromising mobility.
When can I hike after a sprained ankle?
It's best to wait to hike after a sprained ankle until you're pain-free and your ankle ligament feels stable. This can take anywhere from a few days to several weeks, depending on the severity of the sprain. Listen to your body – if there's still pain or weakness, it's not healed enough for the demands of hiking, climbing, running, or other outdoor sports.
Gradually return to weight-bearing activities like walking first. If pain persists or worsens, consult a physical therapist to ensure proper healing and prevent future injuries. A proper physical therapy plan can help reduce swelling, restore strength, and improve mobility in the ankle joint until you're able to bear weight again. Remember, a sprained ankle can sometimes lead to Achilles tendon issues, so prioritize complete recovery before tackling challenging hikes like you would any sports injury.
Is hiking on uneven terrain bad for my ankles?
While uneven terrain isn't inherently bad for your ankles, it can add to your risk of experiencing an ankle injury. Part of the reason hiking, trail running, and other outdoor adventures are considered higher risk for ankle sprains is due to uneven ground. Stepping into a hole, tripping over a rock, or coming off a ledge are all high-velocity impacts that can be hazards for your ankle joint.
How to heal a sprained ankle overnight?
Unfortunately, there's no magic fix to heal a sprained ankle overnight. Ankle sprains require time and physical therapy for the ligaments to heal properly. However, you can ease pain and swelling quickly using the RICE method:
- Rest: Avoid putting weight on the injured ankle.
- Ice: Apply ice packs wrapped in a towel for 15-20 minutes at a time, several times a day.
- Compression: Use an ankle wrap or ankle compression sock to gently compress the ankle.
- Elevation: Prop your ankle up on pillows above your heart to reduce swelling.
Remember, ankle injuries can be serious and lead to long-term damage. Always consult with your athletic trainer, physical therapist, or doctor about developing a proper recovery plan that works for you.
Embrace the adventure, ditch the worry.
Experience the comfort and freedom that comes with wearing an ankle brace for hiking that won't slow you down.
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*Comparison of an adaptive ankle brace to conventional taping for rehabilitation of acute ankle injury in young sub-elite soccer players: a pilot study, Krobholz D et al. Accepted for publication by JSR