Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
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Product Questions
How does The BetterGuard work?
Betterguards intelligent ankle brace technology protects from common ankle injuries without sacrificing freedom of movement. During normal activity, The BetterGuard offers a full range of motion. In the event of sudden twisting or rolling, the mini piston activates to stabilize the ankle, allowing your body time to react before a serious injury can occur.
What technology is built into The BetterGuard?
The adaptive Betterguards technology is the multi-patented adaptive mini piston. The technology is developed by German engineers and is designed to protect athletes from common ankle injuries, such as sudden twisting or rolling, without sacrificing freedom of motion.
What types of injuries does the BetterGuard ankle brace protect against?
The most common ankle injury is a lateral ankle sprain. The BetterGuard ankle brace reduces the risk of severe ankle sprains by reducing the amount of lateral ankle inversion and or supination movement in the event of sudden ankle rolling or turning. The brace is designed to stabilize the ankle during high-velocity inversion and or supination movements, providing stabilization and time to react before injury occurs.
When do I use The BetterGuard?
The BetterGuard ankle brace is ideally suited as a preventative support for those who want to protect their ankles from common and frequent ankle injuries. Its responsive ankle bracing technology can benefit those who are at high risk of ankle turning or rolling during sports, work, or other high-risk activities. The BetterGuard ankle brace can also be used for recovery after an ankle injury to prevent re-injury during the rehabilitation process. It's important to consult your doctor or healthcare provider to find out if The BetterGuard is right for you.
Will The BetterGuard work for my sport?
The BetterGuard is being worn by professionals and amateurs in almost every sport including Basketball, Football, Soccer, Volleyball, Baseball, Tennis, Running, Golf, Handball, Skateboarding, Lacrosse, and many more.
Will The BetterGuard fit in my shoe?
Because of the lightweight comfortable, and sleek design of The BetterGuard, it will fit in any athletic shoe or cleat. We recommend low-top over high-top shoes for best results.
How do I choose the right size?
To find the right size for you, please refer to our size chart. If you are between two sizes according to the size chart, you should use your ankle circumference as a guide. For instance, if you have a slim foot, ankle, and calf area, we recommend choosing a smaller size. If you're not sure, order the larger size.
How do I put on The BetterGuard?
Please refer to the put on instructions to learn how to wear the brace correctly.
I am between two sizes. Which size should I choose?
If you are between two sizes according to the size chart, base your decision on your ankle circumference. This is the crucial measure for size selection. If you are between two sizes, we recommend choosing the larger brace.
How long does The BetterGuard last?
The brace is intended for repeated use. When used as intended, the minimum operating life of the mini piston is two million cycles, equivalent to four million steps. The duration of use of the brace depends on the extent of usage. Depending on the specific sport, usage, and care of the product, we expect a durability of at least 3-6 months with intensive use several times a week.
Can wearing an ankle brace damage my shoe?
As with any protective device, some additional wear and tear may occur as a result of wearing an ankle brace under your shoe. In most cases The BetterGuard is not expected to damage the shoes.
Can I wear The BetterGuard instead of a sock?
It's important to understand that The BetterGuard is not a replacement for socks and should always be worn with socks that are at least as high as the top of the brace.
Do I wear the BetterGuard under or over the sock?
Please always wear The BetterGuard over your socks.
What material is The BetterGuard made of?
The BetterGuard is made of different polyester and Thermoplastic Polyurethane (TPU) materials, and some small metal parts. The fabric of the brace and flexible compression sleeve consists of 62% polyamide and 38% elastane.
I am having an issue with my brace. What can I do?
Please contact our customer support at support@betterguards.com with your concerns
How long does The BetterGuard last?
The brace is intended for repeated use. When used as intended, the minimum operating life of the mini piston is two million cycles, equivalent to four million steps. The duration of use of the brace depends on the extent of usage. Depending on the specific sport, usage, and care of the product, we expect a durability of at least 3-6 months with intensive use several times a week.
When should I not use The BetterGuard?
The product MUST NOT be used in the presence of any of the following:
› Anatomical conditions that prevent correct application
› Lymphatic drainage disorders
› Arterial circulatory disorders
› Post-thrombotic states
› Skin diseases or skin irritations
› Acute injuries or open wounds in the ankle and/or foot area
› Severe sensory disturbances in the lower extremities
› Polyneuropathy (e.g. diabetes mellitus)
› Post-traumatic or postoperative acute care (e.g. swelling, hematoma, fresh scars)
At what outside temperatures can I wear The BetterGuard without problems?
For use, we recommend not exceeding a maximum outside temperature of 40° C and not falling below an outside temperature of -10° C. When storing, please make sure that the bandage is dry, frost-proof and protected from direct sunlight.
Where is The BetterGuard made?
The BetterGuard is designed in Germany and manufactured within the EU. The built-in mini piston is produced at our location in Germany.
Can I wash BetterGuard?
You can wash The BetterGuard by hand at a maximum of 86°F. Please close the hook and loop fasteners beforehand to protect the product. Afterward, let the brace air dry. Do not iron or bleach the brace. Do not dry the brace in a dryer, in direct sunlight, on a heater, or with a hairdryer. If necessary, clean the hook and loop fastener to ensure its functionality.
Did I choose the wrong size?
The BetterGuard is intended to fit snug for best results. Keep in mind, the products ergonomic features are designed to mold to your foot like a second skin. If you need assistance, try reviewing the pull on instructions here, and always feel free to contact our BetterCare team at support@betterguards.com for further assistance when needed.
My product is damaged. What can I do?
If your BetterGuard is damaged and this is not due to normal wear and tear, please contact our customer service. It's best to send an email and include a picture of the damage along with a description. This will help us expedite the processing and resolve your issue. Please send the email to support@betterguards.com with your concerns
Can I wear BetterGuard on both my left and rigth ankles?
While individual preferences may vary, many athletes prefer to wear two braces as a preventative measure to protect both ankles from injury.
Should you choose, The BetterGuard is available for both left and right ankles.