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Like wrist wraps and lifting straps, knee sleeves are a support tool designed for athletes to get the most out of their training sessions. Knee sleeves offer an element of both performance enhancement and bodily protection thanks to the compression and stability they provide the knee joint.
If you’re new to lifting or just on the hunt for a new pair of sleeves to replace your old stinky ones, keep reading for several firsthand accounts from actual weightlifting athletes who tested nearly a dozen pairs of sleeves for this guide.
It’s important to keep in mind that there are no universal knee sleeve sizes. Our team found this out the hard way when ordering these: Sizes we thought would fit us based on other sleeves we had didn’t translate, so everyone wound up swapping around who was testing what. Any brand worth its salt should have a sizing chart—all the ones on our list to the best knee sleeves do.
You already know we love fitness (and writing about it). But did you know that our team includes a roster of certified fitness professionals who actually test products with their own hands (and knees)? Yup—for this guide, our very own Kate Meier, Garage Gym Reviews Head of Content, ordered and doled out almost a dozen pairs of knee sleeves to members of her Olympic weightlifting team and had them weigh in on the good and the bad.
11 Best Knee Sleeves in 2024
- Best Knee Sleeves Overall: Rogue Fitness Knee Sleeves
- Best Knee Sleeves for Squats: Bells of Steel Classic Knee Sleeves
- Best Knee Sleeves for CrossFit: Iron Bull 7mm Knee Sleeves
- Best Knee Sleeves on a Budget: Gymreapers 7-MM Knee Sleeves
- Best Knee Sleeves for Long Workouts: Element 26 Knee Sleeves
- Best Knee Sleeves for Olympic Weightlifting: 1KILO 2-Ply Knee Sleeves
- Best Knee Sleeves for Powerlifting: SBD 7mm Knee Sleeves
- Best Knee Sleeves with Gel Pads: Neenca Gel Pad Knee Sleeves
- Best Everyday Knee Sleeves: Powerlix Compression Knee Sleeves
- Best Multi-Sport Knee Sleeves: Copper Knee Brace
- Best Knee Sleeve for Running: Copper Knee Sleeve
Best Knee Sleeves Overall: Rogue Fitness Knee Sleeves
Good for: Trainees who want a durable, supportive knee sleeve available in a variety of widths
Rogue Fitness Knee Sleeves
Rogue Fitness Knee Sleeves
Product Highlights
- 7-mm SBR (styrene-butadiene-rubber) and neoprene blend
- Contoured seams and flexible construction provide support without restricting range of motion
- IPF- and IWF-legal for raw and open competition
- Rogue claims sleeves reduce knee pressure, swelling and discomfort
- Sold as pairs
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Customers found sleeves supportive for variety of workouts (metcons, powerlifting)
- 5 colorways
- You can track your purchase from order to delivery in Rogue’s shipping system
- Made in the USA
- Available in different thicknesses
- Helpful size chart
Cons
- Rogue suggests you size down for tighter more supportive feel
- Customers had trouble with sizing even after following the fit guide
- Short 60-day warranty
- More limited sizing compared to competitors
- Expensive
- Recommended to hand-wash and hang dry
Bottom Line
These knee sleeves are some of the more expensive sleeves on the market, but they may be worth it if you have a history of injury and knee discomfort like many of the online customers reviewing this product.
As our roster of product testers knows, Rogue Fitness almost never disappoints—unless you’re on a budget, and then the prices are pretty disappointing (we have the Rogue discount lowdown, though!). But as Coop likes to say, “buy once, cry once,” because when it comes to gym equipment, you usually get what you pay for.
Kate Meier, GGR Head of Content, weightlifter, and home gym aficionado, doled these out to her friend Mike to test. Mike is a weightlifter on Kate’s team. She sums up his experience with the Rogue Fitness Knee Sleeves:
“First, it’s cool that they come in camo, which is what he got to test. You know, for looking badass,” she points out—this is important stuff, people!
“Mike said these provided exceptional support and fit true to size. They are too tight to slide up and down the leg, like you easily can with less compressive sleeves, so he had to grab the top and fold them down over his ankles in between sets,” she explains.
“They stay in place, which is necessary for people wearing these while lifting. A 7-millimeter sleeve is thick: These are no joke in terms of support. If you want more mobility in movement, like for functional fitness, these would probably be too compressive, but Rogue makes these in 5-millimeter and 3-millimeter options.”
RELATED: Best Calf Compression Sleeves
| Material | Styrene-butadiene rubber (SBR) and neoprene blend |
| Thickness | 3,5, or 7mm |
| Sizing | XS–XL |
| IPF/IWF-approved? | Yes |
Best Knee Sleeves for Squats: Bells of Steel Knee Sleeves
Good for: Anyone who’s looking to protect their knees during their next leg day
Best for Squats
Bells of Steel Classic Knee Sleeves
Product Highlights
- 7 mm neoprene knee sleeve
- Featured tapered design so you can wear between sets
- Small to extra-extra-large
- Not approved for IWF or IPF competitions
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Free shipping to continental United States
- Affordable when compared to other 7 mm knee sleeves
- Detailed sizing chart on website
Cons
- Not approved for IPF or IWF competition
- Only available in 2 colorways
Bottom Line
If you’re looking for an affordable 7mm leg sleeve, the Bells of Steel Classic Knee Sleeve might be for you.However, if you are planning on participating in IWF or IPF competitions you’ll want to shell out some more money, because these are not competition approved.
There’s nothing worse than having your knees sound like Rice Krispies after a heavy squat day. Caine Wilkes, an Olympic weightlifter who represented the United States in the 2020 Olympics, says the Bells of Steel Knee Sleeves may be the trick to stop them from snapping, crackling, and popping.
“They feel good once they’re on, provide good support, and I like the rougher exterior,” Wilkes says. “It provides a bit more durability and I feel like that’ll help them last.”
These sleeves have a 7 millimeter thickness, which is what you want for heavy lifts such as the squat or deadlift. Caine says he’s used many 7mm thick sleeves and says these are pretty comfortable—once they’re on, that is.
“It was extremely challenging to pull them up over my calf and then my knee,” Caine says, rating them a 3 out of 5 in the adjustment category. “Would’ve loved some hooks or loops to help pull them up. They’re designed to be tight, but that was rough.”
When he finally got them on his knees, Caine noticed they were very comfortable and secure. “They didn’t slide around,” he says, rating them a 5 out of 5 in the comfort category.
The rougher exterior helped them achieve a 5 out of 5 in the durability category. “’I’ve had sleeves with softer, thinner exteriors start to tear in a matter of months,” Caine says. “These feel like they could hold up for years instead.”
RELATED: Bells of Steel Promo Code
| Material | Neoprene |
| Thickness | 7mm |
| Sizing | S–XXL |
| IPF/IWF-approved? | No |
Best Knee Sleeves for CrossFit: Iron Bull 7mm Knee Sleeves
Good for: CrossFit enthusiasts looking for a great, reasonably priced sleeve for functional training
Iron Bull Knee Sleeves
Iron Bull 7mm Knee Sleeves
Product Highlights
- Designed for weightlifting with a thickness of seven-millimeters
- Level two compression and approved by LPF, USAPL, USPA, and IPL
- Made with seven-millimeter thick neoprene and anti slip technology
- Provide level 2 compression with double-stitch welded seams
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Neoprene material
- Approved for usage
- Reported to stay in place
Cons
- Reports of them not lasting long
- Feel stiff to some
Bottom Line
These weightlifting knee sleeves, designed with a seven-millimeter thickness, level two compression, and approval from LPF, USAPL, USPA, and IPL, feature a neoprene construction with anti-slip technology.
Finding good knee sleeves for CrossFit is tough, because you want enough support to assist with heavy lifting during strength sessions or one-rep max tests, but you need enough flexibility to achieve full range of motion on many different exercises—and remain comfortable during long WODs.
Because of this, many CrossFitters end up with two pairs of sleeves: one for metcons and one for strength training sessions.
If you’re looking for a pair specifically for fast-paced, high-volume CrossFit workouts, I recommend the Iron Bull 7mm Knee Sleeves, which offer the best of both worlds. They’re a bit thick, but we read multiple customer reviews that stated they were comfortable enough for most types of workouts.
They’re also approved by the USPA, IPL, IWF, and USAW.
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| Material | Neoprene |
| Thickness | 7mm |
| Sizing | XS–XXL |
| IPF/IWF-approved? | Yes |
Best Knee Sleeves on a Budget: Gymreapers Knee Sleeves
Good for: People who want adequate support for a low price
Gymreapers Knee Sleeves
Gymreapers 7MM Knee Sleeves
Product Highlights
- 7-mm high-grade neoprene with reinforced stitching
- Approved for USPA competitions
- Gymreapers claims the sleeves help reduce knee pain, discomfort and strain
- Sold as pairs
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Free carrying bag included
- 1-year replacement guarantee
- Machine wash and air dry
- More affordable 7-mm model
Cons
- Limited colorways
- Some reviewers had product rip after a short time
Bottom Line
Gymreapers 7MM Knee Sleeves offer a more affordable option for heavy-duty, 7-millimeter-thick knee support for lifting. The lower price point also means lower quality and risk for product failure such as ripping at seams.
Gymreapers is a solid brand that tops many of our guides to fitness gear. The Gymreapers knee sleeves are available in a 7-millimeter width. Our team determined that for the price, these sleeves are pretty good.
Here’s what our tester, Jacob, had to say about the Gymreapers 7MM Knee Sleeves:
“These are decent knee sleeves. They aren’t as snug as the same size in other brands, so if you want something very compressive, you might size down. Also, it could be the pair we got, but in the packaging, the sleeves were folded, and it looks like the neoprene separated where it was folded.”
“I wore them during squats, snatches and cleans,” he continued. “I liked these best for squatting because they kept my knees from feeling like they were falling apart. These are definitely a budget sleeve, so they aren’t the highest quality, but still good for the price”
If you’re new to lifting, this could be a good choice for you instead of dropping almost $100 on a pair you’re unsure you’ll like.
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| Material | Neoprene |
| Thickness | 3, 5, and 7 mm |
| Sizing | S–XXL |
| IPF/IWF-approved? | No, USPA-approved |
Best Knee Sleeves for Long Workouts: Element 26 Knee Sleeves
Good for: Weightlifters who want a comfortable yet durable knee sleeve for prolonged training days
Element 26 Knee Sleeves
Element 26 6-MM Knee Sleeves
Product Highlights
- 6-mm thickness
- Double-reinforced seams and multi-thread cross pattern for durability
- Element 26 claims to have eliminated sliding and bunching
- Claims increased blood flow, decreased pain, and improved function
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Unique 6-mm thickness
- More affordable high-support sleeve
- Machine washable
Cons
- Limited colorways
- Limited size range (S-XL)
- Some customers experienced seam ripping
Bottom Line
Due to the unique 6-millimeter design, these sleeves are ideal for people looking for something with similar support to a 7-millimeter sleeve but with more versatility and mobility.
The Element 26 Knee Sleeves are comfortable enough that they can be worn during those longer workouts without cutting off your circulation, yet durable enough that they’ll support your joints during your heavier sets. We know this because Caine Wilkes, a professional weightlifter and GGR staff writer who placed 9th in the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, has tried multiple Element 26 knee wraps and sleeves while training, and they’re his go-to pair.
Don’t take our word for it, as there are more than nearly 600 5-star Amazon reviews for these knee sleeves. “Bought for Squatober this year and they have been useful from then on,” one customer wrote. “When they end up breaking down Ill buy another pair, but three months in and still going strong.”
Speaking of replacing them, these knee sleeves cost under $50 so you won’t break the bank.
They come in five sizes—from small to extra-large—and three color options.
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| Material | Styrene-butadiene rubber (SBR) and neoprene blend |
| Thickness | 6mm |
| Sizing | Small, Medium, Large |
| IPF/IWF-approved? | N/A |
Best Knee Sleeves for Olympic Weightlifting: 1KILO 2-Ply Knee Sleeves
Good for: Serious weightlifting athletes who need serious support
1KILO 2-Ply Knee Sleeves
1KILO 2-Ply Knee Sleeves
Product Highlights
- Designed by weightlifter and coach Wil Fleming
- 2 layers of fabric
- Proprietary fabric with stretch and support
- Great blend of compression and mobility
- IWF-legal
- Pull tabs for easily putting them on
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Designed by an accomplished weightlifter
- Balances support, compression, and mobility
- Helps you get out of the bottom of a squat
- Pull tabs help pull them on
- Unique fabric unlike most neoprene sleeves
- Affordable
Cons
- Limited sizing (M, L, XL)
- Only one color available
- No returns or exchanges for incorrect sizing
Bottom Line
1KILO 2-Ply Knee Sleeves our one of our top picks for Olympic weightlifting due to their combination of support and mobility, as well as the unique proprietary material that's unlike neoprene sleeves.
The 1Kilo 2-Ply Knee Sleeves were designed by accomplished (read: world champion) weightlifter Wil Fleming and it’s quite obvious. These sleeves are unique, featuring two layers of material that’s unlike the typical neoprene blend found in most sleeves.
Kate Meier, GGR Head of Content and competitive weightlifter, tested the 1KILO 2-Ply Knee Sleeves. Her overall experience was positive:
“I really love these sleeves for a few reasons: First, they are incredibly supportive in a springy way. Some compression sleeves support but restrict; the 1KILOs literally help you get out of the bottom of a squat (or it feels that way).”
“I am someone who wraps my knees around 90 percent, and then, when things get really heavy, I pull a thin sleeve over top of the wraps for extra support (I’ve got tweaky knees, what can I say?). I could do my heavy squats in just the 1KILOs and feel safe,” she continues.
She did note that these are pretty tough to get on, even with the unique tabs on the sides.
“It was not easy to get these sleeves up over my thiccc thighs without the top of the sleeve rolling under itself on the back of my leg,” she says. “In other words, they got tight. I couldn’t wear them continuously throughout my sessions. I had to pull them up and down—which is fine. I usually re-wrap my knees anyway.”
| Material | Proprietary elastic/Spandex blend |
| Thickness | 2-ply (mm not specified) |
| Sizing | M–XXL |
| IPF/IWF-approved? | Yes |
Best Knee Sleeves for Powerlifting: SBD 7MM Knee Sleeves
Good for: Powerlifters and anyone who wants extra support during heavy squats
SBD 7MM Knee Sleeves
SBD 7mm Knee Sleeves
Product Highlights
- 7-mm high-grade neoprene with reinforced seams for durability
- USAPL, IPF, and USPA-approved and IWF-compliant
- SBD claims minimize risk of injury and aid performance
- Sold as pairs
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Extremely wide size range: 3XS-5XL
- Detailed sizing guide
- Reinforced seam for improved durability
- Maximum allowable length (30cm)
Cons
- SBD recommends sizing down for tighter fit
- Expensive
- Hand wash
- No warranty
- 1 color
Bottom Line
SBD knee sleeves are a favorite of powerlifters and athletes have found them very supportive without being uncomfortable. You’re likely to find the right fit with a wide variety of sizes and detailed fit guide.
SBD is a well-known and popular brand among powerlifters. Their gear is known for providing the support that powerlifting athletes need to successfully rep out extremely heavy weights, and for being durable.
The SBD 7MM Knee Sleeves are made of an ultra-thick neoprene fabric and feature double-reinforced stitching throughout.
Jacob Penner, USAW-certified Level 2 weightlifting coach, tested the SBD 7MM Knee Sleeves. Here’s what he thought about them:
“These are really good. I wore them for squats, cleans, snatches, and split-leg movements. These are very compressive, but without being super restrictive,” he said. “That makes these great for wearing for a long period of time.”
However, Jacob calls out that “they are hard to get on because they are so grippy—but that also makes them stay up really well. A 7-millimeter sleeve meets IPF regulations, and SBD literally means “squat-bench-deadlift,” so this is a shoo-in for squats.”
| Material | Neoprene |
| Thickness | 7 mm |
| Sizing | 3XS-5XL |
| IPF/IWF-approved? | Yes |
Best Knee Sleeves with Gel Pads: Neenca Gel Pad Knee Sleeves
Good for: People recovering from knee injuries who have been cleared to exercise with compressive support by their healthcare team
Neenca Gel Pad Knee Sleeves
Neenca Gel Pad Knee Sleeves
Product Highlights
- High-elastic breathable fabric and non-slip gel strips
- Double-sided metal spring stabilizers
- Contour gel pad surrounding knee cap
- Neenca claims the sleeve decreases stiffness, inflammation, swelling and increases oxygen flow
- Sold individually
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Daily use for pain management and support or sport performance
- Full refund available for any reason
- Responsive customer service
- No latex materials
Cons
- Hand-wash and air-dry
- Some customers had difficulty with sleeve staying up
- More of a brace than a sleeve
Bottom Line
Reviews of Neenca gel pad knee sleeves are mixed. If you can achieve a solid fit without the top rolling down, you’ll have a solid sleeve for daily use. If you give these a shot and they start to roll down, return them within Amazon’s return window for a full refund.
The Neenca Knee Sleeve With Gel Pad is a full-on brace, says Kate, GGR Head of Content, who tested this sleeve.
“There is a gel circle that goes around your knee cap and metal inserts on either side of the sleeve,” she explains. “I’m not used to wearing something like that, but I’ve also never had a serious knee injury where I would have to.”
“The metal on either side provides significant support to keep the joint from having too much lateral movement, so I can see where it would be beneficial for those recovering from an injury,” Kate continues.
The bottom line? The Neenca sleeve isn’t uncomfortable, but those metal inserts are noticeable, and this probably isn’t the best choice for people who have generally healthy knees.
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| Material | Neoprene, elastic, silicone |
| Thickness | Not specified |
| Sizing | S–3XL |
| IPF/IWF-approved? | No |
Best Everyday Knee Sleeves: Powerlix Compression Knee Sleeves
Good for: People who want a bit of extra support for running, walking, or being on their feet all day
Powerlix Compression Knee Sleeves
Powerlix Compression Knee Sleeves
Product Highlights
- 4 way stretch fabric
- Double silicon anti-slip system
- Powerlix claims the sleeve increased blood circulation, oxygen delivery, improves performance, speeds recovery and prevents injury
- Sold individually and in pairs
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Sold individually and in pairs
- 100% money-back guarantee
- No latex material
- Multiple colorways
Cons
- Inconsistent sizing
- Sleeve may expand up to 60% more than listed measurements
- Hand-wash and air-dry
Bottom Line
This sleeve does not use latex material, unlike some of its similar competitors. If you have a latex allergy, this sleeve is one of your better options. This sleeve is popular with runners and people wearing it for everyday activities.
The Powerlix Compression Knee Sleeves are a great choice for light support during everyday activities, such as walking the dog and running errands. They’re made of a breathable material that the brand lists as neoprene on Amazon, but it doesn’t feel like neoprene, according to product tester Kate Meier.
“They are really breathable,” she emphasizes. “I wore these running in 90-plus-degree weather, and I didn’t feel like I was going to overheat.”
They’re lightweight, and although the width isn’t specified in the product description, Kate guesses they are about 2 millimeters thick. That means they’re not very compressive, but provide adequate support for everyday movements.
One of Kate’s favorite attributes: You can throw these in the washing machine. (But you should still let them air-dry to preserve the elasticity.)
“These kinds of sleeves usually have markings so you know it’s lined up correctly (Powerlix touts its 4-way compression), but the markings aren’t very obvious,” Kate says. “It’s like light black on dark black, whereas other similar sleeves have clearer markings.”
| Material | Neoprene |
| Thickness | Not specified |
| Sizing | S-XXL |
| IPF/IWF-approved? | No |
Best Multi-Sport Knee Sleeves: Copper Knee Brace
Good for: People who want a lightly compressive, comfortable sleeve for multiple activities
Copper Knee Brace
Copper Knee Brace
Product Highlights
- 3D weave technology
- 60% copper ion fiber
- Company claims copper ion fiber reduces swelling and muscle soreness
- Latex anti-slip strip
- Sold individually
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Large range of sizes (S-4XL)
- Designed for everyday and sport use
- 100% after-sales guarantee
Cons
- Latex anti-slip strip
- 1 colorway
- Hand wash and air dry
Bottom Line
Do not purchase this knee sleeve if you have a latex allergy. These sleeves have mostly positive reviews but may not perform well if you require larger sizes.
Kate, our resident Olympic weightlifter, tested the Copper Knee Brace and thinks they’re great for general use.
They are “incredibly comfortable and easy to get on and off,” she says, but thinks there might be some discrepancy in the product description.
“These are thin—on Amazon, it says 0.2 inches, but that’s 5 millimeters, and these aren’t that thick. I’d guess these are 2 millimeters at most,” she says. “They’re not meant for weightlifting/powerlifting/squat support. Instead, these are fantastic for everyday movement and agility-type sports.”
They also have a lined grip on the top inch so they stay in place, Kate calls out. “I wore these on my knees while playing basketball with my son, and they really helped with stability on lateral movements. They are also really breathable.”
Kate said she really likes that the markings are super obvious throughout the sleeve, so it’s easy to line them up correctly on your leg.
They’re only sold individually, not as pairs, which makes sense for something like this because you might just have one bum knee.
“The only downside I can see is that you need to hand-wash them,” Kate says, “which might be due to the actual copper content. Also, these have latex, so avoid them if you have a latex allergy.”
| Material | Copper, Spandex, latex |
| Thickness | About 2 mm |
| Sizing | S-4XL |
| IPF/IWF-approved? | No |
Best Knee Sleeve for Running: Copper Knee Sleeve
Good for: Runners looking for extra knee support
Best for Running
Elite Fit Copper Knee Sleeve
Product Highlights
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Light compression for everyday wear
- Machine washable
- Quality weave construction
- No chafing with seamless design
Cons
- Only 2 sizes
- Not ideal for lifting weights
Bottom Line
The Copper Fit Elite Knee Sleeve offers light compression for running and daily activity. You can buy them in a two-pack or as a single sleeve. Keep in mind there are only two size options.
The Copper Knee Sleeve is similar to the Copper Knee Brace we listed above, but we think it’s an excellent choice for running, cardio exercise, and any activity where you want a little more support around the knee joint.
GGR expert tester, Kate Meier notes in the above review on the Copper Knee Brace, that it’s quite thin in comparison to a traditional powerlifting-style knee sleeve. The Copper Knee Sleeve is similar in thickness and support. It’s not designed for heavy lifting, powerlifting, or squat support. The intention of these sleeves is to add support to everyday movement and cardio exercise.
Unlike the brand’s knee brace we mention above, these knee sleeves are sold in pairs or as a single sleeve on Amazon. You will notice there are only two size options: small/medium and large/extra-large. The small/medium size fits a knee circumference of 12 to 16 inches. The large/extra-large size is suitable for a knee circumference of 16 to 20 inches.
We appreciate these running knee sleeves have a seamless design, which makes them ideal for extended wearability without chafing. You’ll also benefit from a reinforced elastic band to prevent the sleeves from slipping.
| Material | Nylon, rubber, polyester, spandex, and copper infusion weave |
| Thickness | About 2mm |
| Sizing | S/M or L/XL |
| IPF/IWF-approved? | No |
Other Knee Sleeves We Tested
1KILO 3-Ply Knee Sleeves: Jacob Penner, USAW coach, tested these and really likes them: “These are possibly the most assistive knee sleeves I’ve ever worn,” he says. “They help me out of the bottom position in a squat (or clean).” But, because they are so compressive, it’s hard to wear them for a long period of time. That’s why we recommend the 2-ply version instead.
Hookgrip Knee Sleeves: These sleeves offer basic compression but are not intended for the kind of support you need during heavy lifting. They’re designed more for warmth and a slight boost to circulation than anything, and although they’re comfortable, we don’t recommend them as one of the best pairs for those reasons.
SBD 5MM Knee Sleeves: These are just like the SBD 7MM Knee Sleeves we recommend for powerlifting and squatting, but they’re a bit thinner, so they’re a good choice for anyone who wants more mobility than a 7-millimeter sleeve can offer.
Element 26 6-MM Knee Sleeves: Amanda, a weightlifter on Kate’s team, tested the Element 26 sleeves and was pleased overall. “I really like the Element 26 sleeves because they provide great support without being too constructive,” she said. “They are firm and comfortable to wear, but I can’t wear them for long periods of time. The sleeves are slightly difficult to get on but come off very easily.” Overall, although our roster of testers liked other sleeves better, Amanda was pleased to find a pair of knee sleeves that she likes and feels comfortable in.
How We Picked and Tested the Best Knee Sleeves
We had a lot of fun with this guide to the best knee sleeves. Garage Gym Reviews Head of Content, Kate Meier, competes with an Olympic weightlifting team out of North Carolina. For this article, we ordered nearly a dozen pairs of knee sleeves and sent them to her home gym (that she built!).
She and other members of the weightlifting team tested all of the pairs over a period of several weeks. They wore the sleeves during heavy workouts, one-rep max tests, high-volume training sessions, and even during walks, runs, and kickboxing workouts.
Here are the criteria they judged the sleeves on:
- Price/value
- Durability
- Compression
- Support
- Mobility/flexibility
- Ease of use (putting them on/taking them off)
- Stitching/seams
- Moisture wicking
- Comfort
Benefits of Knee Sleeves
If you’re wondering how knee sleeves might help you, here’s a look at the many benefits and why you might consider implementing them into your training.
Support and Compression
First and foremost, knee sleeves offer joint support. They do this via compression. When you pull a knee sleeve on, the tight fabric helps to stabilize the knee joint and maintain proper alignment, even during high-impact and high-intensity movement.
Blood Flow
Thanks to compression, knee sleeves also alter blood flow in a beneficial way. The compression triggers your body to send more blood to the knee joint, thereby reducing pain and inflammation in the joint.
Rehab and Prehab
If you’re an avid exerciser who’s recovering from a knee injury, your healthcare provider might have suggested—or even prescribed—knee sleeves for your return to sport.
On the flip side, although we can’t say outright that knee sleeves prevent injury, they are a great tool for maximizing joint protection during heavy or high-volume lifts, as well as during activities that require a lot of lateral or unstable movement. Think: basketball and trail running.
Warmth
In the colder months, knee sleeves can keep your joints primed and ready by keeping them warm. You’ll want a pair you can wear for long periods of time, such as the Hookgrip knee sleeves, if your primary use is for warmth.
Buying Guide: What to Look for in Knee Sleeves
This quick guide will help you choose the best knee sleeves for your fitness routine.
Fit: Contour and Compression
Fit is arguably the most important factor in choosing knee sleeves. Look at your knee joint: It has natural curves extending to your lower leg and thigh. A tube-like knee sleeve won’t work well—an ergonomic design with intentional contouring is ideal.
As for compression, that’s where the thickness comes in. Thicker sleeves are more compressive than thinner sleeves.
Materials, Construction, and Durability
Most knee sleeves are made of neoprene or some neoprene blend. A few on this list, for instance, are made of neoprene and SBR, a rubber compound that helps prevent permanent stretching of the sleeve.
Multi-sport sleeves designed for everyday use usually have some Spandex and nylon.
When researching the materials, make sure to check for care instructions. You’ll want to know ahead of time if the sleeves are machine-washable or if you have to hand-wash them.
Also look for terms like “anti-slip silicone strips” or “non-slip silicone grips” to see if the sleeves have any mechanisms to prevent them from slipping down or bunching up.
Thickness: Mobility and Support
Knee sleeves are available in a variety of widths, the most common being 3, 5, and 7 millimeters. Choose wisely: The thicker the sleeve, the more compressive it is and the less mobility you’ll have. This is good for heavy weight training; not so good for CrossFit or running.
Best Knee Sleeves: FAQs
What do knee sleeves do?
Knee sleeves help to increase blood flow and provide knee stability as lifters attempt heavy sets. They are often made of a neoprene material or a blend of neoprene and other materials.
Do knee sleeves prevent injury?
Though many brands claim that their knee sleeves or compression braces prevent injury, it’s not wise to rely on a knee sleeve for injury prevention, no matter how high-quality. If you have a pre-existing knee injury, recently recovered from a knee injury, or have severe or unrelenting joint pain, you should talk to a physical therapist about your options and how to safely resume exercising.
Is it OK to wear a knee sleeve all the time?
Wearing quality knee sleeves during physical activities should not cause any knee problems. However, using any type of support tool too frequently can cause you to become reliant on it. It’s not a bad idea to reserve compressive knee sleeves for heavy weight training or high-impact movement, and wear no sleeves or thinner sleeves for less intense activities.
What is the difference between a knee sleeve, knee brace, and knee wraps?
Knee sleeves are support tools for athletes and fitness enthusiasts. Also called “knee compression sleeves,” they are intended to provide support during weight training or during dynamic sport movements.
A knee brace is something you’d likely get from a physical therapist or other medical professional after an injury such as an ACL sprain or muscle strain, or to deal with knee pain from osteoarthritis or tendonitis. Medical-grade knee braces often have open patella spaces or patella gel pads for support and pain relief.
Finally, knee wraps are another type of fitness training tool that are similar to knee sleeves. They are similar to wrist wraps in that you manually wrap the fabric around your knee joint to give yourself as much or as little compression and support as you’d like.
What are the disadvantages of knee sleeves?
While knee sleeves have plenty of pros, some of the disadvantages include skin irritation, blood flow restriction if the sleeve is too small, and general discomfort. Another potential downside of a knee sleeve is that it doesn’t address underlying issues if you’re wearing them to reduce knee pain. Knee sleeves may may squatting more comfortable, but it won’t help you the root cause of your discomfort.
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