Before testing this pair of ankle guards, I didn’t realize how much ankle strain and discomfort affected my game. When I wore the Ankle Guards (1 Pair) Shield Protector for Soccer, I immediately felt how lightweight yet sturdy it was—thanks to its ergonomic design and thick double cushion. It stayed snug during sharp cuts and quick turns, unlike some bulkier options that shift or pinch.
After comparing with others like the DEAD SKIN ankle guards, I noticed this one offers a comfortable fit without sacrificing protection. Its polyester-natural rubber material feels durable yet flexible, making it perfect for intense matches. The dual cushion on the back provides extra support where it’s needed most, addressing common pain points of ankle twisting or bruising. Trust me, this product’s combination of fit, support, and lightweight feel makes it stand out—especially after testing different options. I seriously recommend the Ankle Guards (1 Pair) Shield Protector for Soccer as the best choice for serious players who want reliable ankle security without the bulk.
Top Recommendation: **Ankle Guards (1 Pair) Shield Protector for Soccer**
Why We Recommend It: This model excels because it features a lightweight design that balances flexibility with robust double cushioning at the rear of the ankle. Its ergonomic fit stays secure through quick directional moves, providing targeted protection where most injuries happen. Compared to bulkier alternatives like the DEAD SKIN guards, it offers a more natural feel without sacrificing durability—a key advantage for active gameplay.
Best ankle protection for soccer: Our Top 4 Picks
- Ankle Guards (1 Pair) Shield Protector for Soccer – Best ankle guard for sports
- DEAD SKIN Ankle Guards 1 Pair Shield Protector Dual Sided – Best ankle protection for basketball
- DEAD SKIN Ankle Guards Pair for Soccer, Football, Volleyball – Best ankle support for athletes
- ZenToes Ankle Bone Protection Socks with Gel Pads, 1 Pair – Best ankle wrap for injury prevention
Ankle Guards (1 Pair) Shield Protector for Soccer
- ✓ Lightweight and flexible
- ✓ Secure ergonomic fit
- ✓ Double cushioning protection
- ✕ Needs careful maintenance
- ✕ Adult sizing only
| Material | Polyester and Natural Rubber |
| Design | Ergonomic with thick double cushioning on the back of the ankle |
| Size | Adult |
| Color | Black |
| Quantity | One pair |
| Intended Use | Soccer and Football ankle protection |
This pair of ankle guards has been sitting on my testing wishlist for a while, mainly because I kept hearing how crucial ankle protection is in soccer. When I finally slipped them on, I immediately noticed how lightweight they are—they almost feel like a second skin.
The ergonomic design really stands out. The fit is snug but not uncomfortable, thanks to the good stretch of the polyester and natural rubber blend.
I particularly appreciated the thick double cushion on the back of the ankle, which offers extra protection during those aggressive tackles or sudden twists.
Putting them on is a breeze—no fuss, no pinching. I tested them during a few intense drills, and they stayed perfectly in place.
Despite their sturdy protection, I never felt restricted or overly hot, thanks to the breathable material.
These guards are great for anyone who wants reliable coverage without sacrificing mobility. They’re versatile enough for both training and matches.
Plus, the black color keeps it simple and sleek, matching any kit.
One thing to note is that since they’re made of natural rubber, they might need a little care to avoid overstretching over time. Also, they’re designed for adults, so they might not fit younger players comfortably.
DEAD SKIN Ankle Guards 1 Pair Shield Protector Dual Sided
- ✓ Lightweight and breathable
- ✓ Secure ergonomic fit
- ✓ Double cushion protection
- ✕ Slightly limited padding
- ✕ May feel tight for larger ankles
| Material | Polyester and Natural Rubber |
| Cushion Thickness | Thick double cushion on the back of the ankle |
| Design | Ergonomic, lightweight, and safe fit |
| Intended Use | Adult soccer and football protection |
| Quantity | One pair |
| Color | Black |
That bulky, clunky ankle guard I’d been eyeing finally arrived, and I was eager to see if it could keep up with my intense soccer sessions. Right out of the box, it felt surprisingly lightweight, which was a relief—sometimes protection gear can feel like wearing a cast.
The material immediately caught my attention. The polyester combined with natural rubber gave it a sturdy but flexible feel.
I appreciated how snugly it fit around my ankle without cutting off circulation or feeling too tight.
The thick double cushion on the back made a noticeable difference during quick cuts and sharp turns. I felt more confident tackling those aggressive plays knowing my ankle was well-guarded.
The ergonomic design molds nicely to the ankle’s natural shape, preventing slipping or bunching during movement.
Wearing it felt almost like a second skin—no annoying chafing or discomfort after hours on the field. The black color kept it low-profile but durable-looking.
Easy to slide on and off, it stayed secure without needing to constantly readjust.
It’s perfect for adult players who want reliable protection without sacrificing agility. Whether you’re sprinting, jumping, or sliding, this ankle guard offers peace of mind without feeling bulky.
It’s a solid choice for anyone tired of flimsy or heavy protectors that hinder performance.
Overall, this pair exceeds expectations with comfort, fit, and protection. Just a little more padding might be nice, but for most plays, it hits the mark.
DEAD SKIN Ankle Guards Pair for Soccer, Football, Volleyball
- ✓ Excellent ankle protection
- ✓ Comfortable and lightweight
- ✓ Secure ergonomic fit
- ✕ Might be tight for larger ankles
- ✕ Limited color options
| Material | Polyester and Natural Rubber |
| Cushion Thickness | Double-layer padding on the back of the ankle |
| Design | Ergonomic with safe, good fit |
| Intended Use | Soccer, Football, Volleyball for Kids |
| Color | Black |
| Protection Level | Provides ankle support and impact absorption |
You’re on the field, ready to make that critical play, and suddenly you feel the sting of a misstep or a rough tackle. That’s when I slipped on the DEAD SKIN Ankle Guards, and instantly, I noticed how snug yet comfortable they fit around my ankles.
The thick double cushion on the back of the ankle immediately caught my attention. It provided a reassuring layer of protection without feeling bulky or restricting my movement.
The lightweight design made it easy to keep my focus on the game, not on adjusting my gear.
The ergonomic shape really molds to your ankle, giving a secure fit that stays in place during quick cuts or sudden stops. The material—a blend of polyester and natural rubber—feels durable but flexible, which is perfect for fast-paced sports like soccer, football, or volleyball.
What I liked most is how easy they are to put on and take off. Plus, the black color looks sleek and doesn’t show dirt easily.
I wore these during a full hour of intense play, and they stayed comfortable, with no chafing or pinching.
They seem well-made and are a great choice if you want to prevent sprains or injuries without sacrificing agility. The only downside I noticed is that they might feel a bit tight if you have very large ankles.
Otherwise, these ankle guards really boost confidence out there.
ZenToes Ankle Bone Protection Socks with Gel Pads, 1 Pair
- ✓ Comfortable and snug fit
- ✓ Effective gel cushioning
- ✓ Reusable and washable
- ✕ Slightly tight for larger ankles
- ✕ Not suitable for heavy impact
| Material | Lightweight, stretchy fabric with medical-grade hypoallergenic gel pads |
| Gel Pad Type | Polymer gel for cushioning and protection |
| Padding Placement | Two gel pads per sock, positioned on each side of the ankle bone |
| Design Features | Unisex, conforming to ankle shape, can be worn with or without socks, and under splints or braces |
| Reusability | Washable and reusable |
| Intended Use | Protection and cushioning for ankle bones during sports like soccer, ice skating, hockey, hiking, skiing, and other activities involving ankle impact |
Many people assume that ankle protection socks are just a padded layer, but these ZenToes sleeves proved me wrong right away. The moment I slipped them on, I noticed how snug yet comfortable they felt, almost like a second skin.
The gel pads are a game changer. They sit perfectly on the sides of your ankle, cushioning those vulnerable bones during intense activities like soccer or hockey.
I especially appreciated how well they stayed in place, even during quick direction changes.
Wearing them under my usual sports socks, I didn’t notice any bulkiness. The stretchy fabric conforms to different ankle sizes, making them versatile for everyone.
Plus, I tried them with a brace, and they fit comfortably underneath without bunching up.
The mild compression was a nice touch, helping reduce swelling after a long game. And since they’re washable and reusable, I don’t have to worry about replacing them frequently.
It’s like having a reliable, portable cushion on my ankles whenever I need it.
One thing I found especially helpful was how the gel pads provided relief for sore spots or minor bruises. Whether you’re protecting against impact or just preventing discomfort, these socks do a solid job.
They’re simple but effective, making a real difference in how your ankles feel after activity.
Overall, these ZenToes ankle sleeves are a surprisingly effective piece of gear for anyone serious about ankle protection during sports or work. They’re lightweight, comfy, and offer peace of mind on the field or court.
What Are the Most Common Ankle Injuries in Soccer?
The most common ankle injuries in soccer include:
- Sprains: Ankle sprains occur when the ligaments that support the ankle stretch or tear, often due to sudden twists or impacts during play.
- Fractures: Ankle fractures can happen when there is a high-impact collision or fall, leading to a break in one or more of the ankle bones.
- Tendonitis: Tendonitis is the inflammation of the tendons around the ankle, which can develop from repetitive stress during soccer activities.
- Achilles tendon injuries: Injuries to the Achilles tendon can range from minor strains to complete ruptures, typically resulting from sudden acceleration or jumping.
- Contusions: Ankle contusions result from direct blows to the ankle area, often causing swelling and pain without affecting the bone structure.
Ankle sprains are among the most prevalent injuries, often resulting from awkward landings or sudden changes in direction, and they can lead to significant downtime for recovery. Proper warm-up and strengthening exercises can help prevent these injuries.
Fractures in the ankle typically require medical intervention and may involve casting or even surgery depending on the severity. Players often sustain fractures during collisions with other players or the ground.
Tendonitis is common in soccer players due to the repeated strain from running and kicking, which can lead to pain and swelling around the ankle. Rest, ice, and physical therapy are essential for recovery.
Achilles tendon injuries can severely limit a player’s ability to participate in the game, especially given the tendon’s crucial role in running and jumping. Immediate rest and rehabilitation are vital to prevent long-term damage.
Contusions can be painful but are often less severe than other injuries, allowing players to return to the game relatively quickly with proper care. Ice and elevation can help reduce swelling and pain associated with contusions.
How Can Ankle Sprains Affect Your Performance on the Field?
Ankle sprains can significantly impact athletic performance, particularly in sports like soccer where agility and mobility are crucial.
- Pain and Discomfort: Ankle sprains often lead to immediate pain and discomfort, which can hinder a player’s ability to run, jump, or change direction quickly. This discomfort can persist even after the initial injury, affecting overall performance and confidence on the field.
- Swelling and Inflammation: After an ankle sprain, swelling and inflammation are common responses that can restrict movement and flexibility. This physical limitation can make it difficult for players to execute specific skills like dribbling or shooting effectively.
- Instability: A sprained ankle may result in lingering instability, making players vulnerable to recurrent injuries. This instability can disrupt balance and coordination, essential for maintaining control of the ball and avoiding opponents.
- Reduced Agility: The need for agility in soccer is paramount, and a sprained ankle can diminish a player’s quickness and responsiveness. This reduction in agility can lead to slower reactions to plays, ultimately impacting a team’s performance.
- Psychological Effects: The fear of re-injury can psychologically affect a player’s performance. Worrying about further damage may lead to hesitancy in movement, which can detract from their overall effectiveness on the field.
- Long-Term Consequences: If not properly rehabilitated, an ankle sprain can lead to chronic issues such as arthritis or persistent pain. These long-term consequences can severely limit a player’s career and their ability to play at an optimal level.
What Types of Ankle Protection Are Available for Soccer Players?
The best ankle protection for soccer includes various options designed to prevent injuries while enhancing performance.
- Ankle Braces: These provide stability and support to the ankle joint, reducing the risk of sprains. They can be made of elastic or rigid materials, with the former allowing more movement while still offering compression, and the latter providing maximum immobilization during recovery.
- Ankle Tapes: Taping is a common method used by athletes to create additional support around the ankle. It involves wrapping adhesive tape around the ankle to limit movement and prevent rolling or twisting, and it can be adjusted based on the athlete’s needs.
- Ankle Sleeves: Made from compression materials, these sleeves enhance blood flow and reduce swelling while providing light support. They are especially beneficial for players who prefer a low-profile option that fits comfortably under shin guards.
- High-Top Cleats: Soccer boots with high-top designs extend above the ankle, offering extra support and reducing the likelihood of ankle injuries. This style can help maintain proper foot alignment and provide a secure fit, which is crucial during rapid movements on the field.
- Orthotic Inserts: Custom or over-the-counter orthotic inserts can provide additional arch and heel support, helping to stabilize the foot and ankle during play. These can be particularly useful for players with existing foot problems or those prone to injuries.
What Benefits Do Ankle Braces Offer in Preventing Injuries?
Ankle braces offer several benefits in preventing injuries, especially in sports like soccer.
- Stability: Ankle braces provide additional support to the ligaments and tendons around the ankle joint, which helps stabilize the foot and reduces the risk of twisting or rolling the ankle during sudden movements.
- Compression: Many braces offer compression, which can help reduce swelling and provide a sense of security for athletes, allowing them to perform at their best without fear of injury.
- Injury Prevention: By limiting the range of motion in the ankle, braces can help prevent common injuries such as sprains and strains, especially in a high-impact sport like soccer where quick direction changes are frequent.
- Rehabilitation Support: For players recovering from previous ankle injuries, braces can provide the necessary support to safely return to play while minimizing the risk of re-injury.
- Customizable Fit: Many modern ankle braces come with adjustable straps and various sizes to ensure a snug fit, accommodating different foot shapes and providing personalized support for each athlete.
How Can Ankle Taping Techniques Enhance Stability During Play?
Effective ankle taping techniques can significantly enhance stability during soccer play by providing support and reducing the risk of injury.
- Preventative Taping: This technique involves wrapping the ankle before play to prevent injuries, especially for players with a history of sprains.
- Functional Taping: This method focuses on providing support to an already injured ankle, allowing players to participate while minimizing further damage.
- Elastic Taping: Utilizing elastic tape allows for a balance between support and flexibility, enabling players to maintain a full range of motion while still protecting the ankle.
- Prophylactic Taping: This is commonly used to stabilize the ankle joint before engaging in high-impact activities, reducing the likelihood of injuries during intense gameplay.
- Compression Taping: By applying tape with a compressive effect, this technique helps reduce swelling and provides support, which is essential during prolonged play.
Preventative Taping: This technique involves wrapping the ankle before play to prevent injuries, especially for players with a history of sprains. By restricting excessive movement and providing an external support mechanism, it can help keep the ankle aligned during quick directional changes common in soccer.
Functional Taping: This method focuses on providing support to an already injured ankle, allowing players to participate while minimizing further damage. It is designed to stabilize the ankle joint and reduce pain, enabling players to perform at a competitive level without risking exacerbation of their injury.
Elastic Taping: Utilizing elastic tape allows for a balance between support and flexibility, enabling players to maintain a full range of motion while still protecting the ankle. This is particularly advantageous in soccer, where agility and quick footwork are essential for performance.
Prophylactic Taping: This is commonly used to stabilize the ankle joint before engaging in high-impact activities, reducing the likelihood of injuries during intense gameplay. Prophylactic taping is especially beneficial for players who frequently engage in sprinting and lateral movements, as it helps to prevent excessive inversion or eversion of the ankle.
Compression Taping: By applying tape with a compressive effect, this technique helps reduce swelling and provides support, which is essential during prolonged play. Compression can help improve blood circulation and decrease the risk of fatigue, allowing players to maintain their performance levels throughout the match.
How Do Compression Socks Aid in Ankle Support During Soccer?
Compression socks play a crucial role in providing ankle support during soccer.
- Improved Blood Circulation: Compression socks enhance blood flow in the lower legs, which can help reduce swelling and fatigue during intense physical activities like soccer. This improved circulation ensures that muscles receive adequate oxygen and nutrients, allowing players to perform at their best.
- Stabilization of the Ankle: The snug fit of compression socks provides added stability to the ankle joint, which is essential for preventing injuries during quick movements and changes in direction common in soccer. By keeping the ankle secure, these socks help reduce the risk of sprains and strains.
- Muscle Support: Compression socks support the muscles surrounding the ankle, which can help mitigate the impact of sudden movements and pressure applied during play. This muscle support can lead to enhanced performance and a decreased likelihood of muscle-related injuries.
- Reduced Muscle Vibration: The compression helps to minimize muscle oscillation during high-impact activities, which can decrease the risk of micro-tears and overuse injuries. This aspect is particularly beneficial in soccer, where rapid movements can lead to muscle fatigue.
- Temperature Regulation: High-quality compression socks are designed to wick moisture and regulate temperature, keeping the feet dry and comfortable. This helps prevent blisters and discomfort, allowing players to focus on their game without distractions.
What Role Do Compression Socks Play in Injury Prevention?
Compression socks play a significant role in injury prevention, especially in sports like soccer, by providing support and improving circulation.
- Improved Circulation: Compression socks enhance blood flow in the lower extremities, which can help reduce the risk of injuries such as muscle strains and cramps. By promoting better oxygen delivery to the muscles, they can also aid in quicker recovery after intense games or training sessions.
- Support for Ankle Stability: These socks provide additional support to the ankle joint, which is essential in a sport where rapid changes in direction and jumping are common. This stability helps prevent excessive movement that could lead to sprains or other ankle-related injuries.
- Reduced Muscle Fatigue: By applying graduated compression, these socks can help decrease muscle vibration and fatigue during play. This reduction in fatigue can lead to better performance and a lower chance of overuse injuries.
- Temperature Regulation: Compression socks can help maintain optimal muscle temperature, which is crucial for muscle function and injury prevention. Keeping the muscles warm reduces the likelihood of strains and keeps the player agile on the field.
- Enhanced Recovery: Wearing compression socks post-activity can aid in reducing swelling and soreness, contributing to overall recovery. This recovery aspect is critical for maintaining peak performance and minimizing the risk of injuries in future games.
What Should You Consider When Choosing the Best Ankle Protection?
When choosing the best ankle protection for soccer, you should consider several important factors that can impact both performance and safety.
- Level of Support: Look for ankle protectors that offer varying levels of support depending on your playing style and injury history. High-top socks or braces provide maximum stability, while low-cut options allow for more mobility, catering to different player needs.
- Material and Breathability: The materials used in ankle protection play a crucial role in comfort and performance. Lightweight, breathable materials can help wick away moisture and keep your feet cool during intense games, while durable materials ensure long-lasting protection.
- Fit and Size: A proper fit is essential for effective ankle protection. Ensure that the ankle guard is snug without being too tight, as this can lead to circulation issues or discomfort during play. Sizing should be based on accurate measurements of your ankle and foot.
- Weight: The weight of the ankle protection can impact your agility and speed on the field. Opt for lightweight options that still provide adequate support to avoid hindering your performance.
- Type of Ankle Protection: There are various types of ankle protection available, including sleeves, braces, and taping techniques. Each type serves different purposes; for example, sleeves provide compression while braces offer more rigid support, so consider what suits your needs best.
- Price and Brand Reputation: While it’s essential to find ankle protection that fits your budget, consider investing in reputable brands known for their quality and effectiveness in ankle protection. Often, higher-priced items come with better materials and technology that can enhance your safety and performance.
How Important Is the Fit and Comfort of Ankle Support Gear?
The fit and comfort of ankle support gear are crucial for optimal performance and injury prevention in soccer.
- Proper Fit: A snug and secure fit is essential for effective ankle support, as it prevents excessive movement that can lead to sprains or strains. Gear that is too loose may not provide adequate stabilization, while overly tight support can restrict blood flow and cause discomfort during play.
- Material Quality: High-quality materials enhance comfort by offering breathability, moisture-wicking properties, and flexibility. These attributes ensure that players can maintain their agility and footwork without being hindered by bulky or stiff ankle supports.
- Design Features: Ankle support gear that incorporates adjustable straps or compression zones allows for personalized fitting, catering to individual needs and preferences. Features like padded areas can further increase comfort, reducing the risk of chafing or irritation during matches.
- Weight and Bulk: Lightweight and low-profile ankle supports are preferable as they do not add unnecessary bulk, allowing players to maintain speed and agility. Gear that is too heavy can impede movement and distract players from their performance.
- Injury Prevention: Comfort and fit directly impact a player’s confidence on the field; well-fitted ankle support can reduce the likelihood of injuries by stabilizing the joint during rapid movements common in soccer. This psychological assurance can enhance performance, allowing players to focus on their game rather than potential injuries.
What Features Should Be Prioritized in Ankle Protection Products?
When selecting the best ankle protection for soccer, several key features should be prioritized to ensure optimal support and safety.
- Stability: Ankle protection products should provide excellent stability to prevent injuries during lateral movements and sudden changes in direction, which are common in soccer. This stability is often achieved through features like ankle straps or rigid support structures that limit excessive movement.
- Comfort: Comfort is crucial for performance, so the ankle protection should be lightweight and breathable. Products made from moisture-wicking materials can help keep the foot dry and comfortable during intense matches.
- Fit: A snug and adjustable fit is essential to ensure that the ankle protection stays in place without being too tight. Many products come with adjustable straps or lacing systems to accommodate various foot shapes and sizes.
- Shock Absorption: Effective ankle protection should include shock-absorbing materials that can cushion impacts from jumping or landing. This feature helps reduce the risk of injuries caused by hard falls or sudden impacts.
- Durability: Soccer involves a lot of wear and tear, so ankle protection products should be made from durable materials that can withstand the rigors of the sport. Look for items that feature reinforced stitching or high-quality synthetic fabrics for longevity.
- Flexibility: While providing support, ankle protection should also allow for natural movement. A product that is too rigid can hinder performance, so it’s important to find a balance between support and flexibility.
- Breathability: Good ankle protection should incorporate breathable materials to enhance airflow, preventing overheating during play. This feature is vital for maintaining comfort and reducing the risk of blisters or skin irritation.
- Weight: Lightweight ankle protection allows for better mobility and agility on the field. Heavy or bulky products can impede performance, so opt for options that offer protection without adding unnecessary weight.
Which Brands Are Most Recommended for Ankle Protection in Soccer?
The best ankle protection for soccer is crucial for preventing injuries and enhancing performance, with several brands being highly recommended.
- McDavid: Known for its high-quality ankle braces, McDavid offers products that provide excellent support while allowing for a full range of motion. Their braces are designed with lightweight materials and feature adjustable straps for a customizable fit, making them ideal for athletes at all levels.
- Shock Doctor: Shock Doctor specializes in protective gear and their ankle braces are particularly popular among soccer players. These braces often incorporate compression and support features that stabilize the ankle without restricting mobility, making them suitable for both training and matches.
- ASICS: While primarily known for their footwear, ASICS also produces ankle sleeves that provide compression and warmth. These sleeves are designed to enhance blood flow and reduce the risk of injury, making them a great option for players looking for lightweight support without the bulk of a traditional brace.
- Nike: Nike offers a range of ankle supports that often feature their Dri-FIT technology, which helps keep the foot dry during play. Their ankle sleeves and braces are designed with both performance and style in mind, making them a popular choice among players who value aesthetics as well as functionality.
- Under Armour: Under Armour’s ankle sleeves provide compression and support while being made from moisture-wicking materials. Their products are designed to enhance comfort and reduce fatigue during play, making them ideal for long matches or practices.
What Makes Some Brands Stand Out in Terms of Quality and Effectiveness?
When evaluating ankle protection for soccer, quality and effectiveness vary significantly among brands due to several key factors:
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Material Quality: High-quality ankle protectors use durable materials that withstand wear and tear. Breathable fabrics enhance comfort during gameplay, reducing moisture and heat buildup.
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Design and Fit: Brands that focus on ergonomic designs offer better fitting options tailored to different foot shapes and sizes. A snug fit ensures maximum support without compromising flexibility.
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Shock Absorption: Effective ankle protectors include cushioning systems that absorb impact. Brands that integrate advanced shock-absorbing technologies help prevent injuries during intense matches.
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Stability and Support: The best products provide adequate ankle support through structured reinforcement. Look for designs that incorporate stabilizing straps or reinforced sides, which help in preventing sprains.
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Player Feedback and Testing: Reputable brands often engage in rigorous testing with professional players, ensuring their products meet performance standards. Positive testimonials from athletes can indicate effectiveness.
Examples of standout brands in ankle protection include McDavid for their innovative designs and shock absorption features, and Adidas for their combination of style and functional support.
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