ASO Ankle brace is a specially designed compression ankle brace to support and stabilize ankles and feet. It works well for any sized ankles. ASO Ankle Brace allows for proper alignment of your ankle and will help prevent injuries from occurring.
On my pick up basketball court it is one of the most commonly used ankle braces. Based on that implied recommendation, I picked one up myself. I use it interchangeably with the McDavid 195 Ankle Brace.
ASO, ankle stabilizing orthosis, is a stabilizing brace that can be worn for ankle support and strength. I consider it between a level 3 (Moderate to major instabilities) and level 2 (Minor to moderate ligament instabilities) of protection. The brace comes with nylon straps and elastic pull-tabs to keep it secured in the proper position.
Fit
The ASO ( ankle support orthotic ) brace is of bilateral design, meaning it can fit left and right ankles equally well. It is made of durable, lightweight neoprene that is comfortable to wear and provides excellent support.
The contoured tongue facilities a great fit and is constructed of light-weight and durable CoolFlex material. This material also lines the inside back of the boot, providing increased comfort to the Achilles area. The boot has an invisible seam to provide additional comfort.
The lace up system allows you to change the tightness and the fit as long as Just lock your heel into the back of the brace. It also fit in all of my shoes (basketball, running).
Comfort
The ASO ankle brace provides excellent lateral and medial support for your arches without inhibiting quick athletic moves because of its lightweight construction. Though the material may need some breaking in, after a few weeks, you will hardly notice you are wearing it.
The design makes the brace work for a variety of sizes and shapes of ankles, including those with high arches as well as those with flat feet. The brace is made from a light weight breathable plastic to help make it comfortable to wear, while the Velcro straps are easily adjustable to fit any person.
You will have to determine the level of tightness, it is very possible to go too tight around the midfoot and arch. You may find that you can get some tingling or numb feelings in those cases. You will find a sweet spot where brace is consistently comfortable.
Ease of Use
The ASO Ankle Brace can easily be slipped on and tightened enough to hold the heel in place. The ankle brace is very comfortable and does not interfere with normal activity; moreover, it securely locks the heel into place. The anklet brace fits easily into any athletic or street shoe, and its non-stretch stabilizing straps simulate the basket weave technique of an athletic taping application.
If the laces and the Velcro straps get tangled it is easier to detangle snce the material used in the laces do not stick to the velcro. You may not think that is a big deal, but it is why I slightly prefer this brace to the McDavid 195 Ankle Brace.
Performance
I use ankle braces on both of my ankles. I switch between 2 or 3 different models depending on how my ankles are feeling. I have used the ASO ankle brace for about 4 years and have not had to replace it yet. I play basketball 2 to 3 times a week so you can do the math.
It’s small, lightweight, easy to pack and to use. It’s made of durable nylon material. It is a solid all around brace and one that I use when I am looking for at least level 2 ankle support.
The brace has a high-quality nylon strap that’s sure to keep your ankle in place.
Severity Levels of Ankle Sprains
The image below shows you the condition of an ankle based on what level or grade of sprain you may have.
The ankle sprain level is defined in the table below:
| Level 1 | Minor pain and sprains |
| Level 2 | Minor to moderate ligament instabilities |
| Level 3 | Moderate to major instabilities |
ASO Ankle Brace Sizing Chart
SIZE GUIDE
Men’s Shoe Size Chart:
- X-Small (6-7)
- Small (7.5-9)
- Medium (9.5-11)
- Large (11.5-13)
- X-Large (13.5-15)
Women’s Shoe Size Chart:
- X-Small (5-6)
- Small (6.5-8)
- Medium (8.5-12)
- Large (12.5-14)
ASO Ankle Brace Instructions
You can download the complete instructions and care guide here.
Step 1
Place your foot with sock inside the boot portion of the ASO Ankle Stabilizer. Feed lace through remaining eyelets and tighten.
Make sure lace is tight between all eyelets and tied securely to ensure
adequate support.
Step 2
Bring the inside (medial) stabilizing strap forward across the top of the foot.
Step 3
Wrap stabilizing strap under the heel and attach the end of strap to the side of the boot. Repeat steps 2 and 3 for the outside (lateral) stabilizing strap.
Step 4
Place foot flat on the floor. Use the finger loops at the end of both straps to free them from the sides of the boot. IMPORTANT: PULL STRAPS UP FIRMLY. Stabilizing straps must be tight for proper support. Reattach straps to boot. Repeat if needed.
Step 5
Wrap elastic cuff closure over tied laces and secured straps. For optimum performance and support, the elastic cuff should be stretched to where the ASO logo is facing forward.
Washing Instructions
The ASO Ankle Stabilizer may be hand or machine washed on gentle cycle with warm water and mild detergent. Do not use bleach. The ASO must be air dried.
Where to buy ASO Ankle Brace
Of course ASO ankle braces can be bought on Amazon. But they should also be readily available at Walmart and some Walgreen’s store if you can’t wait for delivery.
ASO Ankle Stabilizer Summary
The ASO ankle brace is an effective and affordable ankle brace that can be used for years. If you want to look at the next level up in price and support you can view our review of the Zamst ankle brace that Steph Curry wears. We also have an article on using good old-fashioned athletic tape to stabilize your ankles.
Troy Wright
I am a lifetime basketball enthusiast and loved playing basketball competitively through high school. I still try and play at least 3 times a week and explore all kinds of equipment and training to keep myself on the court and continually getting better. I am a college basketball fanatic and move onto the NBA when March Madness ends.
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