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There are many different reasons you may choose to use an ankle, knee, or wrist brace. Generally, wrist braces help to stabilize the wrist and hold it in a neutral position. Wrist braces are sometimes used by people with arthritis or carpal tunnel, or you may utilize one after an injury such as a sprain.
The Best Wrist Braces - Our Top Picks
- Best Overall: Copper Compression Wrist Brace - Left and Right
- Best for Arthritis: Copper Compression Arthritis Gloves
- Best Budget: MUELLER Sports Medicine Reversible Wrist Brace with Splint
- Best for Carpal Tunnel: FEATOL Wrist Brace for Carpal Tunnel
- Best for Tendonitis: INDEEMAX Copper Wrist Compression Sleeve 1 Pair
- Best for Sprain: NEENCA Wrist Support Brace
- Best for Typing: MONALE Carpal Tunnel Wrist Brace
- Best for Sleeping: Vive Night Wrist Splint Brace
With so many different types of wrist braces out there, it can be overwhelming to shop for the perfect one. Always work with your doctor when deciding what type of wrist brace to wear and whether or not you need one. Depending on your condition or whether you've sustained an injury, the best wrist brace will vary from person to person.
From carpal tunnel to arthritis to typing and beyond, we're sharing our top choices for wrist braces in the article below. We'll also discuss the features that set them apart and some tips to follow when shopping for yours.
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Best Overall - Copper Compression Wrist Brace
SPECS
- Available sizes: S/M, L/XL
- Weight: 2.4 oz.
- Material: Nylon
- Buckle type: Velcro
We chose the Copper Compression wrist brace as the best overall choice given its versatile sizes and functional design. This wrist brace is infused with copper and provides support while remaining flexible and breathable. It has an ergonomic design, making it suitable for all-day wear—you can even sleep in it.
The material is made to be antimicrobial so that it will stay clean even with repeated use. The lightweight material is comfortable and stretchy. This wrist brace can be used for a variety of different conditions, including arthritis, tendonitis, tendinopathy, carpal tunnel, and more.
What We Like
- Lightweight, breathable material
- Stretchy and flexible
- Usable for a variety of different conditions
- Moisture wicking and antimicrobial
What We Don't Like
- Only provides lower wrist support
- You might have to try both sizes to find the right fit
BUY: Copper Compression Wrist Brace
Best for Arthritis - Copper Compression Half Finger Arthritis Gloves
SPECS
- Available sizes: S, M, L, XL
- Weight: 1.45 oz.
- Material: Not specified
- Buckle type: None
These copper-infused compression gloves provide support to the wrists and fingers. They are made with a lightweight, stretchy material that allows for movement and flexibility. These gloves provide support while not being too constricting.
The Copper Compression arthritis gloves provide constant pressure and the material is infused with copper to help promote healing. These gloves can be worn throughout the day and overnight to provide constant pressure and support. They have an inner grip to help keep them in place while worn.
What We Like
- Super lightweight design
- Stretchy material
- Provide wrist and finger support
What We Don't Like
- Higher price point
- The inner seam may leave an imprint on your arm
BUY: Copper Compression Arthritis Gloves
Best Budget - MUELLER Sports Medicine Reversible Wrist Brace with Splint
SPECS
- Available sizes: 1 size
- Weight: 8.4 oz.
- Material: Not specified
- Buckle type: Velcro
This velcro wrist band has a metal splint that helps to reduce motion in the wrist. It features a velcro buckle and is available in one size. The material is lightweight and breathable, so you should be able to wear this brace discreetly under clothing if you'd like.
If you need to stabilize your wrist and have support from a splint, then this may be a good option for you. You can easily remove the metal splint part if you need to by removing it through a velcro pocket. This wrist brace is available at a reasonable price point, so it's a great option for anyone shopping on a budget.
What We Like
- Adjustable velcro buckle
- Removable metal splint
- Lightweight, breathable material
What We Don't Like
- Only available in 1 size
- The metal insert may become uncomfortable after long wear
BUY: MUELLER Sports Medicine Reversible Wrist Brace with Splint
Best for Carpal Tunnel - FEATOL Wrist Brace for Carpal Tunnel
SPECS
- Available sizes: S/M, M/L, L/XL
- Weight: 4.97 oz.
- Material: Not specified
- Buckle type: Velcro
This sturdy wrist brace is available in three different adjustable sizes. It provides support using an aluminum insert that is removable, as well. This is a great option for anyone who has carpal tunnel, arthritis, or tendinitis.
Soft fabric makes this wrist brace comfortable and shouldn't irritate the skin. The adjustable straps and multiple size options provide a customizable fit. It can work for long periods and even at night.
What We Like
- Sturdy and supportive
- Adjustable design
- Removable splint
What We Don't Like
- Bulkier than some of the other options
- Some users had a hard time figuring out how to buckle it properly
BUY: FEATOL Wrist Brace for Carpal Tunnel
Best for Tendonitis - INDEEMAX Copper Wrist Compression Sleeve 1-Pair
SPECS
- Available sizes: Small, medium, large
- Weight: 3.21 oz.
- Material: Nylon
- Buckle type: None
This pair of lightweight wrist braces slide on like a sleeve, providing wrist support while maintaining range of motion and flexibility. The INDEEMAX wrist brace is designed with a copper infusion to help promote healing. The breathable material fits snugly around the wrist to provide all-day comfort and compression.
We chose this as the best for tendonitis because of its supportive design. The lightweight, stretchy material allows you to move normally and has a discrete appearance. If you're not a fan of big, bulky wrist braces, then this one is a great choice for you.
What We Like
- Lightweight and stretchy
- Breathable material
- Copper-infused material
- Comes as a pair
What We Don't Like
- Not adjustable
- Might not be as supportive as some other options
BUY: INDEEMAX Copper Wrist Compression Sleeve 1 Pair
Best for Sprain - NEENCA Wrist Support Brace
SPECS
- Available sizes: 1 size
- Weight: 8.15 oz.
- Material: Not specified
- Buckle type: Velcro
This supportive wrist brace is designed to keep your wrist stabilized. The inner metal plate keeps the wrist in a neutral position, and this wrist brace goes up to the knuckles, effectively supporting the entire wrist.
Another practical feature of this wrist brace is an adjustable knob that allows you to choose how much range of motion you have. This helps to ensure a comfortable, custom fit. The breathable material has mesh openings to keep you cool and comfortable while wearing it.
What We Like
- Adjustable knob ensures a comfortable fit
- Metal plate for stability
- Breathable mesh
What We Don't Like
- Only 1 size option
- Higher price point
BUY: NEENCA Wrist Support Brace
Best for Typing - MONALE Carpal Tunnel Wrist Brace
SPECS
- Available sizes: 1 size
- Weight: 0.64 oz.
- Material: Neoprene
- Buckle type: Velcro
The MONALE wrist brace is a lightweight, velcro wrist brace. This wrist brace is available in one size and is made with adjustable straps. We voted this wrist brace as the best for typing because it offers support and is so lightweight that you may even forget that you have it on.
The adjustable straps allow you to choose how much compression you'd prefer. This brace can help to keep your wrists in a neutral, comfortable position.
What We Like
- Adjustable straps
- Lightweight
- Doesn't make noise when you move
What We Don't Like
- Only 1 size option
- Non-porous material is less breathable
BUY: MONALE Carpal Tunnel Wrist Brace
Best for Sleeping - Vive Night Wrist Splint Brace
SPECS
- Available sizes: 1 size
- Weight: 4.66 oz.
- Material: Aluminum, neoprene
- Buckle type: Velcro
The Vive wrist splint has a variety of unique features, including cushioning inner beads and the gray color option. This wrist brace is reversible and can be worn on the right or left hand, and it has adjustable straps that help you find the most comfortable fit.
The cushioning beads provide extra compression, and it also has an inner metal splint that can be removed. Vive also provides customers with an informative app with rehab videos, injury prevention, and other helpful information.
What We Like
- Breathable, lightweight material
- Available in gray or black
- Removable metal splint
What We Don't Like
- Only 1 size option
- It only velcros on the top and bottom, not the middle
BUY: Vive Night Wrist Splint Brace
What to Look for in a Wrist Brace
When shopping for a wrist brace, you'll want to pay attention to some of the possible features to help figure out which one will work best for you. Below, we've highlighted some key features when shopping for a wrist brace.
Material
The material that makes up a wrist brace is important because it can influence how it feels on your skin. You want to be especially mindful of the material of the wrist brace if you have sensitive skin. Some wrist braces are made with moisture-wicking and hypoallergenic material. If you know that you will be wearing your wrist brace for long stretches of time, you'll want to get a gentler material so it doesn't cause skin irritation. Some wrist braces are made with materials that are easier to clean than others, as well. This is a helpful feature since it allows you to wash your wrist brace regularly to keep it clean.
Design
How a wrist brace is designed has a major influence on how it will work for you. Some wrist braces are lightweight and flexible, while others feature a splint that helps to keep your wrist straight at all times. If you need a more heavy-duty wrist brace (such as after sustaining an injury), you may want to opt for one made with sturdier material. If you just need some light compression and support, you could probably opt for a wristband that is more flexible, lightweight, and comfortable.
Adjustability
Most wrist braces are adjustable, which allows you to find a comfortable fit. Look for any adjustability features, such as tightening buckles and removable splints. The more adjustable a wrist brace is, the more likely you'll be able to get a comfortable fit. However, some wrist braces don't have buckles to make them adjustable but are simply made with a stretchy material that will mold to your wrist. You can still get a comfortable fit with this type of wrist brace as long as you get the size correct.
Sizing
Some wrist braces are only available in one size, while others are available in different sizes. Be mindful of the sizing, and look at any size guides to help select a wrist brace that will fit properly.
FAQs About Wrist Braces
Are wrist braces worth it?
Wrist braces can be an effective method for providing support and stability to injured or sore wrists. There are many different reasons why you may need a wrist brace. If you need one due to an injury, work with your doctor to determine what type of wrist brace will work best for your unique situation.
How long should you wear a wrist brace?
The amount of time you should wear a wrist brace varies depending on your condition. Your doctor will provide unique recommendations on how long you should wear your wrist brace throughout the day and when you can discontinue its use.
What is the difference between a wrist brace and a wrist splint?
A wrist brace is worn around the wrist to provide support. A wrist splint contains a hard metal inner portion that keeps the wrist straight to keep it in a neutral position. Wrist braces sometimes have removable splints in them.
Does compression help with wrist pain?
Compression can be an effective method to help with wrist pain depending on what is causing the pain. Wearing a wrist brace for compression can help ease swelling and pain associated with various conditions, including arthritis and carpal tunnel.