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If you buy through links on this page, we may earn a small commission. Here’s our process. Knee compression sleeves can be helpful for people who need extra support around their knee when taking part in exercise or other physical activity. Some knee compression sleeves provide overall support to the whole knee area, while others add targeted support to the kneecap. Share on Pinterest A quick look at some of the best knee compression sleevesBest breathable CW-X Stabilyx Knee Compression SleeveBest lightweight Bauerfeind Sports Knee SupportBest anti-slip UFlex Athletics Knee Compression Sleeve SupportBest for all-day use Cambivo Knee Compression SleeveBest with multidirectional stretch Pro-Tec Gel Force Knee SupportBest odor-free POWERLIX Knee Compression SleeveBest adjustable ABYON Adjustable Knee BracesThis article provides information on what to look for in a knee sleeve, when a person should use one, and the effectiveness of these sleeves. It also offers a list of knee sleeve products to consider when looking to buy a knee sleeve. What is a knee sleeve Knee sleeves provide compression and support for the knee. However, they should not limit movement in any way. These sleeves can be useful if an individual has experienced a minor injury. The compression a knee sleeve provides increases blood flow to the area to reduce pain and help reduce swelling after workouts. A 2017 study concluded that compression garments aid recovery after exercise, particularly after strength exercises. How we chose Medical News Today chooses fitness equipment that meets the following criteria:Price: MNT chooses products available for a wide range of budgets.Size and capacity: MNT selects products to suit people of different heights, weights, and strengths.Materials: MNT chooses products that have safe and durable materials and fabrics that are easy to clean and maintain.Quality: MNT chooses companies that adhere to high quality manufacturing processes that ensure its products are safe for personal use.Reputable: MNT chooses products from businesses that adhere to industry best practices. Some of the best knee compression sleeves Here are some knee compression sleeves for a person to consider. Please note that the writer of this article has not tried these products. All information presented is purely research-based and correct at the time of publication. Medical News Today follows a strict product selection and vetting process. Learn more here. Best breathable CW-X Stabilyx Knee Compression Sleeve This product is available in black or blue and black. It also comes in three sizes: small, medium, and large. It features an EXO-WEB support panel, which stretches two ways and reportedly provides targeted support. The company also says that the fabric is breathable and wicks away moisture to keep the skin dry. The sleeve’s design features flat seams to prevent chafing. The support panel consists of nylon and Lycra, while the body is made of polyester and spandex. It can be a good option for older adults who enjoy running. Other features include:ultraviolet (UV) protectiona machine-washable designa 1-year warrantya 30-day return policy Some pros and cons of this product include: Prossuitable for older adultsprotects the skin from UVmachine-washablesuitable for people with arthritisreturns within 30 days Consmay not remain in place potential shipping delays The CW-X Stabilyx Knee Compression Sleeve sleeve costs $30.SHOP NOW Best lightweight Bauerfeind Sports Knee Support According to the manufacturer, this product, which is reportedly light and airy to wear, features an elastic knitted fabric that regulates compression. Bauerfeind claims that it has anatomically shaped the support to help a person move freely. It also has a front pad to absorb pressure. It is available in six sizes, ranging from XS–XXL, and three colors: blue and greenblackpink The manufacturer recommends this product to adults who play sports such as tennis, baseball, soccer, and basketball. The product has:a 30-day return policya 1 year warrantya machine-washable and moisture-wicking fabric Below, we look at some pros and cons: Prosreturns within 30 days1-year warrantydifferent sizes and colors are availablestays in place Consmay cause blisters may increase painthe material is not very stretchy The Bauerfeind Sports Knee Support sleeve is available to purchase online for $89.99.SHOP NOW Best anti-slip UFlex Athletics Knee Compression Sleeve Support This unisex product is available in sizes S–XL and in three colors. UFlex Athletics’ design allows the sleeve to offer support for minor knee conditions. The brand also states that the nylon fabric is breathable, combats odors, and wicks moisture away from the skin. The nylon forms a knitted 3D structure with elastic so that it fits the knees curvature. A person can adjust the fit of the sleeve with its silicone strap. In addition, it produces a heating effect that the company claims can promote muscle healing. The company states that the knee compression sleeve has an anti-slip design so it stays in place. It also extends a 30-day returns policy. Some of the products pros and cons include: Prosmay best suit people who regularly walk and runcomfortablemachine-washable Consmay not suit people with sensitive skin Pricing for the UFlex Athletics Knee Compression Sleeve Support is around $21. SHOP NOW Best for all-day use Cambivo Knee Compression Sleeve The company claims this sleeve may be suitable for use playing sports and for people with arthritis, tendonitis, and other knee injuries. The sleeves come in paired sets and consist of 3D knitted nylon, latex, and spandex. There are also antislip silicone waves at the top to help keep them in place. Additionally, the extra thick material reportedly provides more support than other types of knee sleeves. The product description states that these sleeves are suitable for all-day use, and are lightweight, breathable, and moisture wicking. The sleeves are available in five sizes, ranging from S–XXL. Below are some pros and cons of this product: Prossuitable for all-day usefits under clothingdifferent sizes availablereduces swelling and supports muscle recoverypossible returns with Amazon Prime Conssizing may be inaccuratemay cause skin rash A pair of Cambivo knee sleeves cost between $10–14.SHOP NOW Best with multidirectional stretch Pro-Tec Gel Force Knee Support This sleeve is available in one color and four sizes, from S–XL. It contains a thick oval gel that aims to provide comfort and support to the kneecap. The product features a nylon fabric design that is reportedly breathable and soft, with a multidirectional stretch. The company states this stretch applies even compression throughout the knee. Some pros and cons are: Prosoption to choose from small to extra-large sizinga 30-day return policy available6-month warranty Consmay slippossible inaccurate sizing The Pro-Tec Gel Force Knee Support sleeve costs around $30.SHOP NOW Best odor-free POWERLIX Knee Compression Sleeve This knee compression sleeve claims to help reduce knee pain and improve blood circulation. It could also provide support during workouts. It may particularly benefit people with arthritis. According to the manufacturer, some other features are:anti-slip3D knittinga four-way compression systemodor-free designa 6-month money-back guarantee Sizes range from S–XXL, and people can choose from colors like orange, black, blue, and dark gray. Some pros and cons of this product include: Prosa 6-month money-back guaranteesuitable for long-distance runningsupports mild sprains Consmay slip for some people The POWERLIX Knee Compression Sleeve costs between $18–30.SHOP NOW Best adjustable ABYON Adjustable Knee Braces ABYON’s knee sleeves come with adjustable elastic Velcro straps to provide an easy and comfortable fit. They also have spring stabilizers that fit the knee’s curve. The company recommends the product for people with knee pain or recovering from an injury. Additionally, the knee braces have ventilation holes, are soft, and are made from a sweat-wicking material. Other features include:a double anti-slip technologyfour-flexible side stabilizersadjustable strapsa strong-hold Velcro30-day return policy It is available in black and green, and sizes vary from S–5XL. Pros and cons include: Prosadjustable designstays in placerelieves throbbing painprovides flexibility and comfort Consmay be defectivemay look bulky ABYON’s knee sleeves cost around $17–20.SHOP NOW Comparison table Below is a comparison of the above products:CW-XBauerfeindUFlex AthleticsCambivoPro-TecPowerlixABYONPrice$30 $89.99around $21around $10–14around $30around $18–30around $17–20Fabricsnylon, Lycra, polyester, spandexelastic knitted fabricnylonnylon, latex, spandexnylonneoprenesiliconeSizes availableS, M, LXS, S, M, L, XL, XXLS, M, L, XL S, M, L, XL, XXLS, M, L, XLS, M, L, XL, XXLS-M, L-XL, 2-3XL, 4-5XLColors availableblack, black and blueblue and green, black, pinkred, black, pink blue, blackblueorange, black, pink, blue, and greygreen and blackAdditional featuresEXO-WEB support panelpressure-absorbing kneecap padadjustable silicone strapthicker material for additional supportgel to support the kneecap areaanti-slip fit and breathable compression fabric to provide joint stabilityadjustable taps, suction Velcro, side stabilizers What to look for in a knee sleeve A few factors to research when purchasing a knee compression sleeve include:Breathability: A person may wish to choose a fabric that is breathable and moisture wicking, which can help keep their skin dry and reduce odors.Flexibility: An individual should ensure the sleeve they choose does not restrict their mobility.Size range: People may wish to ensure the brand of knee sleeve they choose has a range of sizes, so they can find a sleeve that fits them well and is not too tight or too loose.Additional features: A person may wish to check if a knee compression sleeve comes with extra features, such as kneecap cushioning or adjustable straps. When should a person use a knee sleeve Knee compression sleeves are not suitable for constant use. Instead, they are for wearing during physical activity, when people may need extra knee support. They can provide stability to the knee during exercise or prevent post-workout soreness and pain. Activities where a person may wish to consider wearing a knee compression sleeve include running, weightlifting, squats, and other cardio activities. Some companies claim their product may also be suitable for those with arthritis or other knee-related injuries. A person may wish to contact a doctor to check if knee compression sleeves will be right for them to avoid worsening existing injuries. Are knee compression sleeves effective A 2017 review evaluated the use of knee sleeves in people with knee problems. They found there were improvements in walking and balance in individuals with osteoarthritis affecting their knees. The study also found improvements in knee function in individuals with knee injuries. However, a 2021 study discovered that knee sleeves did not appear to have much of an effect on people when weightlifting. There is a lack of research into the benefits of using knee compression sleeves for other physical activities. When to contact a doctor People who have had a knee injury should seek medical advice if they enjoy exercising and are looking for additional support or something to help ease the pain. The doctor may be able to offer advice on the best product for them and may also suggest a workout program suitable for their condition. Frequently asked questions The following are common questions and answers about knee compression sleeves: What is the difference between knee sleeves and knee braces Knee braces restrict movement, while knee sleeves should not. Additionally, knee sleeves may be suitable for those with minor knee injuries, whereas braces are suitable for more serious injuries to help with a person’s recovery. How long do knee compression sleeves last The durability of a person’s knee compression sleeve will depend on how frequently they use it. On average, they can last approximately 6 months to a year. Can you wear knee sleeves all day A person should only wear a knee sleeve when they need extra knee support for physical activity. An individual may be at risk of developing issues with the knee joint if they wear a knee compression sleeve that restricts their movement for long periods. How do you measure for a knee compression sleeve A person can check to see if a company has a measuring guide on its website. To find the right size, an individual can bend their knee slightly and measure the circumference of their leg around the top of their calf. How tight should my knee sleeve be The knee sleeve should be as tight as possible without restricting any movement. The tightness should help promote blood flow in the knee but not cut off circulation or pinch the skin. Summary While knee compression sleeves are suitable for use during physical activity, they can also benefit people with minor injuries or pain that affects the knee. The compression from the sleeve can promote blood flow, which can reduce the likelihood of pain and swelling in this part of the body. A person may wish to consider contacting a doctor if they have severe or long lasting pain in their knee. Last medically reviewed on July 27, 2022Rheumatoid ArthritisRheumatologyRehabilitation / Physical Therapy 3 sourcescollapsedMedical News Today has strict sourcing guidelines and draws only from peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical journals and associations. We avoid using tertiary references. We link primary sources — including studies, scientific references, and statistics — within each article and also list them in the resources section at the bottom of our articles. You can learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our editorial policy.Bennett, H. J., et al. (2021). Wearing knee sleeves during back squats does not improve mass lifted or affect knee biomechanics.https://digitalcommons.odu.edu/hms_fac_pubs/101/Brown, F., et al. (2017). Compression garments and recovery from exercise: A meta-analysis.https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28434152/Mohd Sharif, N. A., et al. (2017). Biomechanical and functional efficacy of knee sleeves: A literature review.https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S1466853X1730202XFEEDBACK:Medically reviewed by Gregory Minnis, DPT, Physical Therapy — By Suzy Davenport and Kristina Iavarone — Updated on July 27, 2022 Latest newsWhat sets 'SuperAgers' apart? 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