Skip to content
TayCo BraceTayCo Brace
Doctor Reviews the Best Ankle Brace for Sprains & Instability (Better Than a Lace-Up or Aircast?)

Doctor Reviews the Best Ankle Brace for Sprains & Instability (Better Than a Lace-Up or Aircast?)

Recover smarter, not slower. That’s the key takeaway from Dr. Sonam Maghera’s recent review of the TayCo AthleticX Brace, a standout option for active individuals recovering from ankle sprains or seeking extra support after an injury.


As a board-certified interventional sports medicine physician, Dr. Maghera regularly evaluates bracing options before recommending them to her patients. In her in-depth review, she shares how the AthleticX Brace uniquely blends lateral ankle support with freedom of movement, something that’s missing in traditional lace-up and compression braces.

A New Approach to Post-Sprain Stability

Most ankle braces either restrict movement too much or fail to provide real stability. According to Dr. Maghera, lace-up braces compress the front of the ankle, which limits natural motion like dorsiflexion and plantarflexion, both essential for walking, running, and sport-specific movement. Meanwhile, aircast-style braces may completely immobilize the joint, which is only helpful in the earliest stage of injury.

The AthleticX Brace changes that. Designed to be worn over the shoe, it reinforces the ankle laterally while allowing the user to maintain push-off power and walk naturally. It’s trusted by elite teams in the NFL, NCAA, and National Lacrosse League, and now it’s available for everyday athletes and active individuals.

“The brace moved with me. I could walk my dog, go up and down hills—all with lateral stability and without feeling restricted,” said Dr. Maghera.

What Makes the TayCo AthleticX Brace Different?

Dr. Maghera evaluates all braces using three key criteria:

  1. Lateral Stability – Prevents rolling (inversion/eversion) without locking up the joint.
  2. Freedom of Movement – Maintains natural range of motion in other planes of movement, like dorsiflexion.
  3. Comfort – Easy to use, wear, and keep on during activity.

The AthleticX Brace hits the mark on all three.

While it initially appears bulkier than a traditional brace, Dr. Maghera was surprised at how lightweight and comfortable it felt. Once fitted, it seamlessly integrates with athletic shoes, cleats, hiking boots, and even work boots.

Real-World Performance and Longevity

This brace isn’t just for recovery, it’s designed to support return-to-play scenarios. In fact, high-level athletes have used it mid-game by strapping it over cleats after an acute sprain, allowing them to finish a competition safely before undergoing further assessment.

Key performance benefits include:

  • 2.4x more lateral stability than typical lace-up braces
  • Natural mobility for walking, running, and sports
  • Durable construction built to last through multiple seasons
  • Replaceable parts to extend the brace’s life and reduce cost over time

Who Should Use This Brace?

While not recommended for early-stage immobilization, the AthleticX Brace is ideal for:

  • Active individuals recovering from ankle sprains
  • Athletes prone to ankle rolls
  • People returning to hiking, court sports, or field play
  • Anyone needing ankle support without giving up movement

Things to Consider

A few caveats to keep in mind:

  • Requires a stable-soled shoe (not compatible with minimalist footwear)
  • Higher initial price point than soft braces—but designed for years of use
  • Best used after the acute stage of injury or as a preventative measure

Final Verdict

“For athletes and active patients looking for stability without losing power, the TayCo AthleticX Brace is one of the best designs I’ve tried,” said Dr. Maghera.


Shop the TayCo AthleticX Brace

If you’re ready to take control of your recovery and get back to the activities you love, check out the TayCo AthleticX Brace here. Use code DRSONAM20 at checkout for $20 off, automatically applied with this link.

Share This Review

Know someone recovering from an ankle sprain or dealing with chronic ankle instability? Send them the full video review to help them make an informed decision.

Cart 0

Your cart is currently empty.

Start Shopping