Key features to focus on

1. Support and motion‑control

A good stabilisation brace doesn’t just compress — it helps limit unwanted movement of the shoulder joint (for example, excessive abduction, external rotation, or translation of the humeral head). One source notes that stabilising braces include “straps that fasten upwards to keep the humerus in its natural position” and even “an elastic extra strap pushes the shoulder backward in cases of anterior shoulder dislocations”.
Why important: If your shoulder is unstable, weak in the rotator cuff or supporting ligaments, or you have had a dislocation — simply wrapping won’t provide enough control. The brace must help correct alignment, limit harmful motion, and support healing or prevention.

2. Fit and adjustability

A brace must fit well to function well. This means the correct size, correct side (left or right), and adjustability (straps, closures) to tailor the fit. From one guide: features like “adjustable straps allow for a customised fit” are key. 
Why important: If the brace is too loose or misaligned, it may slip, rub, fail to stabilise, or even cause discomfort/injury. Adjustable straps let you fine‑tune the support and adapt as your condition improves or changes.

3. Material, comfort breathability

Support is no use if you won’t wear the brace because it’s uncomfortable. Comfort features include breathable fabrics, moisture management, lightweight design. A review states: “The materials used … affect comfort and how well it works” and points to neoprene, breathable fabrics, strong stitching. 

Why important: Especially if you’ll wear it for long periods (everyday use) or during activity (sport/training), the brace must not irritate your skin, trap heat excessively, or interfere with movement or clothing.

4. Side/anatomical design

The brace should match the anatomy it supports: left vs right shoulder, the area of the joint, arm/chest strap routing, padding in the right places. One brace spec sheet emphasizes “silicone inner arm ring for maximum grip … straps fasten upwards … elastic extra strap pushes shoulder backward”.
Why important: A mis‑sided or poorly designed brace may not align correctly, causing poor support, discomfort, or compensatory movement. Match the brace to your anatomy and the nature of your instability or injury.

5. Intended use support level

Not all braces are for the same purpose. Some are light wraps (for mild strain or prevention), others are heavy stabilisers or immobilisers (for serious injury, post‑surgery). For example, one guide classifies support levels: “Level 1” light compression; “Level 3” maximum stability for serious injuries. 

Why important: If your brace is under‑powered for your condition (e.g., severe instability but you buy a light wrap), you risk insufficient support. Conversely, a heavy immobiliser for mild discomfort may be overkill and restrict too much.

6. Durability maintenance

How well the brace holds up, how easy it is to clean, whether the straps/closures will last — these impact long‑term value. One review mentions “good design: well‑stitched, durable materials” as a key factor. 

Why important: A brace is useless if it fails quickly, stretch‑out, Velcro loses grip, fabric irritates skin, or you stop wearing it because it’s uncomfortable or dirty.

How to apply this when picking a brace

• Analyse your condition: Do you have mild discomfort, strain, posture issues, or do you have real instability/dislocation risk or post‑surgery?

• Check support level: For mild issues → a wrap with compression may suffice; for instability/healing → a brace with straps and motion control is better.

• Measure check sizing: Follow the size chart (arm/shoulder/chest circumference) and check whether the brace specifies left or right shoulder or is universal.

• Inspect features:

  • Are there adjustable straps for custom fit?

  • Is the material breathable and comfortable?

  • Is the brace low‑profile enough for the activity you’ll do?

  • Does it allow correct motion for your need (if you need to move, or restrict if you need immobilisation)?

• Consider durability: Look for robust stitching, quality closures, and easy to maintain (wash, clean).

• Match to your use case: If you’ll wear during sport, ensure it allows performance; if everyday wear, ensure comfort and wearability.

Example brace options how they reflect features

• Pro Healthcare Advanced Shoulder Stability Brace: Higher support level, likely for instability or stronger control.

• Neoprene Advanced Shoulder Stability Brace: Lighter wrap, breathable neoprene material — more for mild support or daily wear.

• Trv Shoulder Support Stability Brace with Pressure Pad: Moderate support with extra pressure pad, balancing everyday use + mild instability.

• Adjustable Shoulder Support Brace for Men Women: Budget, adjustable design — suitable for general mild support.

• Shoulder Support Brace With Adjustable Stretch Strap Belt: Light wrap, adjustable strap — good for prevention, mild pain, general use.

• Tynor Shoulder Support: Mid‑tier support, likely good balance between daily comfort and moderate support.

Final summary

If you’re looking for a shoulder stability brace, focus less on brand names and more on what features it offers:

• Does it provide genuine stabilisation (not just compression)?

• Does it fit your body well (size/side/adjustment)?

• Is it comfortable enough for your use (material, breathability)?

• Is the design anatomically aligned with your shoulder issue?

• Is the support level appropriate for your condition?

• Will it hold up over time?

Getting these right means the brace will work for your needs — rather than just being something you buy and forget. If you like, I can help you compare three top braces side‑by‑side in a table with these features scored (support level, comfort, adjustability) so you can pick the best one for your situation. Would you like me to do that?