The 8 Best Finger Braces of 2021

What to Look for in a Finger Brace

Fit

Choosing a brace that’s adjustable so it’s neither too loose nor too tight is key, says Brian Hardy, M.D., an orthopedic hand surgeon at Texas Orthopedics in Austin, Texas. Otherwise, it either won’t do what it’s designed to do or it could cause discomfort—a major indicator that something’s not right.

“The brace should fit snugly, but not too tight,” he explains. “If it is painful or uncomfortable, then that may be a sign that the brace is either too loose or too tight.”

If you’re unsure about the fit of your brace, Dr. Hardy suggests asking an orthopaedic hand surgeon or a certified hand therapist (a specially-trained occupational therapist or physical therapist) for advice and recommendations.

Design

The design and overall size of the splint or brace will determine how immobilized your hand and fingers will be when wearing the product. If you’re looking to continue to use your hands while wearing one, then a bulkier design that immobilizes most of your fingers probably isn’t for you. 

If you’re looking for protection during the night time when you aren’t active, we recommend a larger brace that will stabilize the entire hand. According to the Cleveland Clinic, wearing a hand and wrist brace at night can improve symptoms of certain conditions, such as carpal tunnel syndrome. 

Material

Hands can get sweaty quickly when wearing a bulky brace or splint. This isn’t a concern for everyone, but some people prefer more breathable material that won’t make their fingers slick with sweat. Also, you want a brace made with material that won’t irritate the skin, as you’ll likely be wearing it for longer periods of time. 

“When choosing the best wrist and hand brace, neoprene or nylon will provide the most support for fractures and sprains, as well as for carpal tunnel and tendonitis,” says Dr. Okubadejo. These materials are also less irritating and more comfortable than plastic, he adds.

However, if you work outdoors, Dr. Okubadejo advises getting a brace made of hard plastic, since it will be waterproof and washable to remove dirt. 

Purpose

Should you get a splint-style brace that severely restricts movement, or a flexible brace that allows you to still bend your finger? And how much of your hand, wrist, and forearm should be covered for proper support?

These are tough questions, because there are different splints and braces for different injuries. Make sure you’re paying attention to the design when selecting a product; most will list out what conditions they treat and which fingers can use the splint.

If you need a quick reference, Dr. Okubadejo suggests using braces to support inflammatory conditions, like arthritis and tendonitis, and splints for injuries that need immobilization.

Your Lifestyle

It’s important to choose a style of brace that’s compatible with what you’ll be doing during the hours you’re wearing it, says Dr. Hardy. He encourages consumers to think about whether or not a brace can get wet or be washed, as well as whether or not you can perform your usual activities in it, like gardening, exercising, and even sleeping.

Why Trust Verywell Health?

As a seasoned health writer, Danielle Zoellner knows the importance of finding just the right product to fit your medical needs. Throughout her career, Danielle has interviewed a variety of experts in the medical and health fields while reviewing dozens of products. Her experience and knowledge in the field work together to help readers like yourself find the best products for your daily life.

Additional reporting by Sarah Bradley

Sarah Bradley has been writing health content since 2017—everything from product roundups and illness FAQs to nutrition explainers and the dish on diet trends. She knows how important it is to receive trustworthy and expert-approved advice about over-the-counter products that manage everyday health conditions, from GI issues and allergies to chronic headaches and joint pain.