Whether you are looking to improve your athletic performance, alleviate mild pain, or recover from a major surgery, a proper knee brace can be an incredibly useful, if not vital, tool for promoting longevity. For people who are plagued by pain and don’t want to undergo serious surgery, a knee brace can be invaluable. According to Karena Wu, PT, DPT, board-certified clinical specialist in orthopedic physical therapy, knee braces work by providing compression and unloading the joint, while keeping it warm. This can result in lowering your perception of pain while increasing mobility and function. However, not all knee braces are made the same. Charles Hummer III, MD, FAAOS, FACS, chief medical officer at Premier Orthopaedics, Philadelphia Union says cheaper models may not provide proper cushioning and can lead to hard plastics impinging on your skin. With this in mind, he tells us comfort is important because patients are more likely to wear the brace if it isn’t a chore. When choosing the proper knee brace for you, it’s important to pay attention to the obvious details like what kind of pain you are looking to alleviate. You should also focus on smaller details like the materials and adjustability level. We accounted for these factors when choosing our top picks and also included options all along the price spectrum. Some common conditions that can be helped with a knee brace include: Our Top Picks Best Overall: Best Budget: Best Hinged: Best for Arthritis: Best for Pain: Best For Injuries: Best For Running: Wonder Steps Knee Compression Sleeve at Wonder-steps.com (See Price) Best for Sports: Cambivo Knee Brace Compression Sleeve 2 Pack at Amazon ($17) Best for Stability: Best for Recovery: In This Article Who Can Benefit from a Knee Brace? Our Picks What to Look for in a Knee Brace Our Experts FAQ Why Trust Verywell Health Pros Affordably priced Open and closed patella models available Finger tabs make it easier to put on Cons Not suited for more serious injuries May bunch up during workouts With a combination of a reasonable price point, extreme breathability, and top-tier compression, this knee brace from Shock Doctor is our clear pick for the best overall. The four-way stretch spandex works in the back of the knee to promote a comfortable flex. As a result, the knee brace is not only a good choice for issues like arthritis and bursitis but also for people who want to use it for working out. A non-slip silicone gripper lining also works to keep it in place. While this option is also available in an open patella model, we like the closed patella model for added overall compression. It also features moisture-wicking neoprene and airflow venting technology for added breathability. It’s available in sizes small through extra extra large. And its padded patella buttress helps to offer knee stability. Finger tabs also make the brace easy to pull on. Some people may experience mild bunching after a set of leg exercises. Also, the knee brace won’t be ideal for people facing more serious injuries or for those who need longer-term assistance. However, for discomfort and minor ailments, this is pound-for-pound our best pick. Key Specs: Pros Adjustable straps Patella support Works on either knee Cons May not stay in place Features latex Finding solid knee support shouldn’t break the bank. Like our best overall pick, this brace also features a reinforced buttress for patella support, but it also comes at an extremely reasonable price. Plus, it offers three straps that enable you to adjust the compression and support level of the brace. This option is a one-size-fits-most, with the straps aiding in adjustability to ensure a proper fit. Do note that while the three-strap system is a nice benefit for adjustability purposes, it does lend itself to a few minor issues. Primarily, you might find it can be too tight. Additionally, this option features latex, which some people may be allergic to. Key Specs: Pros Hinge keeps you from hyperextending Doctor recommended brand Features reflectivity Cons Pricier than other options Runs small Wu notes that DonJoy is a brand commonly recommended by doctors, and looking at the brand’s Performance Bionic Fullstop ACL Knee Brace, it’s easy to see why. Research demonstrates that braces with hinges offer force and torque absorption during athletic movements. While this option is great for people who want to promote stability and ensure they don’t run themselves into dangerous end ranges of motion, it also has a handful of other features that we appreciate. Four-way adjustable straps mean you can create a more tailored fit while also getting joint support and ACL protection. As a sleeve, it also offers a good deal of compression, using neoprene and breathable mesh for temperature regulation. Lastly, a simple but nice feature that we appreciate is that the brace includes reflectivity, which helps to keep you safe in low-visibility areas. Of course, nothing is perfect, and there are a few minor details that hinder this brace. For starters, it is much more expensive than most of the other options on our list, but as a highly recommended brand by doctors, it’s a worthwhile investment. Some people may also find the sizing to run small, and it doesn’t include an XXL option. Key Specs: Pros Four-way compression for full range of movement Gel strips to keep in place Multiple color options Cons Too tight for some Washing can affect elasticity Though research is mixed, there is some research that indicates that an elastic knee sleeve may improve pain and the functional capacity of people with knee osteoarthritis. With this data in mind, we like the Powerlix Knee Compression Sleeve for a handful of reasons, and it also earns Wu’s approval as a choice for general compression. For starters, we like that this compression sleeve works to provide stable pressure across the entire knee joint, but the four-way compression is still designed to be able to provide a full range of motion. Additionally, this option features two silicone gel strips to help keep everything in place should you decide to wear it for a workout. Plus, we appreciate that these sleeves are available in six different colors as owning something you actually like the look of will make you more likely to wear it. This sleeve is made from nylon and spandex, which makes it moisture-wicking and breathable in addition to offering a bit of stretch. We appreciate that Powerlix provides a six-month, 100% money-back guarantee. to be too tight. This brace will reach about 5 inches up your thigh, and people with larger thighs may find it to be too tight. Washing it frequently can also affect the elasticity. Key Specs: Pros Lower profile lets you wear it under clothing Can help with tendonitis Features adjustable straps Cons Runs small May shrink in wash Wu recommends Caresole’s Circa Knee Sleeve for its lower profile and straps that offer a snug fit while also compressing the quadriceps tendon and patellar ligament area. She notes that this can help to unload the tissues if someone has tendonitis in that area, which is why this option made our list as the best option for pain. Because of the fit and material, the sleeve is a good choice for someone who needs it for everyday relief, but it can also be worn to exercise since it allows for a full range of motion. The lower profile Wu mentions is a benefit should you wear the brace while out and about, since it can be worn under pants without being bulky and bulging through. The compression encourages blood flow, which can enhance lubrication and reduce pain, and it provides support to the kneecap to help keep the brace in place. Do be aware that the brace runs a bit small, and be sure to follow washing instructions so it doesn’t shrink in the wash. Key Specs: Pros Adjustable straps Medical-grade compression Wide range of sizes Cons More expensive than other options Doesn’t work on both knees While you need to consult with a medical professional if you are facing an injury, knee braces can help with a wide variety of ailments. In particular, we like Bauerfeind’s GenuTrain S Knee Brace, which is designed to be able to help with arthritis, advanced meniscus tears, and knee sprains, as well as other injuries. Adjustable straps allow you to create an optimal fit for whatever issue you’re facing so you can get the right support. Additionally, joint side bars work to promote stability, and viscoelastic pads provide a massaging effect during usage. All of this occurs while medical-grade compression aids in pain reduction and improved circulation. Additionally, this brace has seven different sizes and can accommodate a wide range of people. This option is a bit more expensive than other choices on our list. It’s also side-specific and only works on one knee, so you will have to purchase two if both of your knees are injured. Key Specs: Pros Side bolsters promote movement Breathable and sweat absorbing Free shipping Cons Potential bunching behind the knee No XXL size option The Wonder Knee Brace Knee Compression Sleeve comes recommended by Wu for its acupressure pads surrounding the knee to help alleviate pain. She also likes it for the side bolsters that she notes can unload the joint without inhibiting movement dramatically, making it ideal for running. Other features we love include the ergonomic fit that keeps the brace in place so it won’t slide off during usage, as well as the ergolastic pad that provides cushioning around the kneecap. The brace is made with breathable, sweat-absorbing, machine-washable materials, which is vital to deal with the sweat volume produced by running. It also doesn’t hurt that the FDA approved this product as a natural alternative to surgery, shots, and medications. and we like that it also comes with a one-year warranty. Some people may experience mild bunching behind the knee due to the design. Additionally, there’s no XXL size option. Key Specs: Pros Comes in a two-pack Breathable and absorbent Silicone grip keeps it in place Cons Not as supportive as other models May run a bit small When choosing a knee brace or knee sleeve for sports, factors like support and compression will be important, but other factors such as flexibility and breathability become even more imperative when you are using it while in motion and breaking a sweat. With these factors in mind, Cambivo’s Knee Brace stood out to us as a great option for anyone looking for support during sports. Double-lined, anti-slip silicone grip rings at the top of these sleeves help them stay in place, even during sports with quicker movements such as basketball or skiing. Additionally, the brace is made of nylon, spandex, and latex to promote breathability and moisture absorption, so you can use it no matter the season. And of course, it offers excellent compression to improve circulation and keep your knees warm, which is great for working out or going for a hike. Plus, we like that it comes in a two-pack to keep both your knees protected. While the brace provides compression and is great for exercise and sports, it doesn’t offer as much support as other models. It also runs on the smaller side. Key Specs: Pros Features both hinges and side stabilizers Lifetime warranty Hinges are removable Cons May shift if you sweat Velcro wears Stability is key to avoiding further injury to an already damaged knee, and we like Fit Geno’s Hinged Knee Brace to help with this. It features hinges and side stabilizers that work to improve medial and lateral stability. If you find you don’t need as much stability, you can remove the dual aluminum hinges and rely on the side stabilizers. This option also includes a patella gel pad to help prevent injury, as well as two medical-grade silicone strips and four adjustable straps to ensure that everything stays put during exercise. We also appreciate that it comes with a lifetime warranty. This brace might not do a great job of staying in place if you start to sweat, and the velcro could come undone with lots of activity. Key Specs: Pros Features two spiral springs Adjustability through velcro Absorbent inner fabric Cons Can impede mobility for some Too heavy for some If you are already injured and need a brace to help you during your recovery, we suggest Doufort’s Knee Brace with Side Stabilizers. Two spiral springs on both sides of the knee offer joint support and can aid in relieving knee pressure. Additionally, it also has a medical-grade patella gel pad that is shockproof to help with patella injuries. Lastly, an adjustable velcro design enables you to find your own preferred tightness, depending on the injury and its severity. The neoprene helps promote circulation, which can be important for healing, and the inner fabric works to absorb sweat. This product can impede mobility a bit should you want to move around a lot. It’s also a bit heavier than other braces on our list. Key Specs: Pros Holds position well, even when exercising Washes well Durable and built to last Cons Only comes in pack of one Only available in blue If compression is your goal, why not look to a company that outfits elite weightlifters with the goal of keeping their joints warm and safe? Rehband’s Original V Knee Sleeve is a popular and classic compression sleeve commonly seen at gyms and with good reason. The 7-millimeter thick neoprene provides excellent compression and warmth, but what makes the brace so great is that it’s designed with exercise in mind and won’t compromise during any sort of movement. The sleeve stays in position even when brought through different ranges of motion, including explosive movements like squatting. It’s durably made and will hold up well over time, even after machine washing (although you should avoid machine drying it). Do be aware that the brace is only available in blue, which may not be everyone’s cup of tea. Fortunately, it’s available in XS through XXL and runs true to size. The brace is only sold individually, which isn’t uncommon on our list. However, if you plan to use it for exercise, we suggest purchasing two. Key Specs: Pros Can adjust both fit and compression level Lateral supports HSA/FSA eligible Cons Limited sizing Being able to adjust your knee brace, sleeve, or wrap is a great way to ensure it can accommodate a variety of different ailments. McDavid’s VOW Versatile Wrap Knee Wrap With Stays allows you to adjust both compression level and fit with its Overwrap system. The top wrap is in control of fit, muscle support, and compression, while the bottom wrap works to isolate and stabilize the patella. We like that this option also offers lateral support, with spring steels on both sides and a strap-free back that enhances range of motion and comfort. An added bonus is that this option is HSA/FSA eligible. The brace is limited in sizing compared to other choices, only ranging from S to XL. Key Specs: Pros Steel springs for support Elastic cross straps for added compression Padded buttress for patella support Cons Runs small for some Velcro doesn’t hold well over time If added support is what you need from your knee brace, then features like reinforced steel springs are important. McDavid’s Knee Brace Support uses these springs to be able to make you feel confident with moving, especially if you’re already injured. Additionally, elastic cross straps enhance the compression of the neoprene sleeves, while providing rotational ligament support. An added feature that we appreciate for support, particularly for people with patella issues, is the open patella with a padded buttress to help keep it in place. This brace runs a bit small, and the velcro may wear out over time. Key Specs: Pros Multiple color options Wide range of sizes Non-slip gel grips Cons Side braces aren’t very durable Tends to run small A good knee brace can alleviate pain and make movement that was previously undoable a more realistic reality, restoring a level of higher quality to your life in the process. We particularly like Neenca’s Knee Brace for movement due to a few unique features. The brace’s even compression provides effective pain relief, allowing you to return to movements that previously caused pain. Other features that make this a good choice for people looking to move include elastic webbing on the inside and non-slip gel grips, which keep the brace in place through end ranges of motion. The brace features a patella gel pad and side spring stabilizers to disperse pressure and aid in keeping your knee warm. One important feature for people who move a lot is this brace’s breathability and lightweight air knit fabric that fights excessive heat and sweat. It tends to run small, and the side braces wear down easily with frequent use. Key Specs: Pros Pads and straps help with patellar tracking Stabilizer springs for movement Affordably priced Cons Can be difficult to put on for some Velcro wears over time If you struggle with patella pain, investing in a knee brace or sleeve with a patella gel pad can work wonders. This option from Bodyprox features not only patella gel pads but also adjustable straps that work in tandem for patellar tracking, which can help alleviate pain. The silicone gel pad works with the knee’s contours to offer stability, but the open patella design works to reduce pressure. The adjustable straps are bi-directional and cross above and below the knee to offer added kneecap stability and keep the patella more stationary during movement. Plus, if you are looking to be active while wearing this brace, stabilizer springs are built into both the left and right sides to work with the natural movement patterns of the joint so that mobility isn’t inhibited. The extra padding can make this option a bit tricky to put on the first few times, and the velcro may wear out and be less effective over time. Key Specs: Not all knee braces are made the same. That’s a good thing because not all knee issues are the same. Below are some of the most common types: Many knee braces also feature a hole in the front, which Hummer says is useful for patellar femoral pain. The hole aids in tracking the kneecap, though he says this is just a temporary solution until the knee strengthens itself. Knee braces come in a variety of materials. Neoprene is commonly used due to its moisture-wicking and insulating properties. However, as Hummer tells us, some people will have adverse reactions to neoprene and latex, so if you are allergic to either of these materials, make sure you read labels before purchasing. Other common materials that are seen on our list include nylon and spandex. This combination can be beneficial because nylon is breathable, while spandex is moisture-wicking. Other common features include hard structures like plastic and polyethylene, but Hummer warns that you don’t want these materials impinging on the skin. He notes that most good braces will feature padding to prevent this problem, with many good options featuring a liner or sleeve to prevent injury. Adjustability is in important feature, though some circumstances make it more relevant than others. Wu says it’s a bit of a balancing act. A brace that is too loose won’t accomplish what it needs to. Conversely, one that is too tight can create irritation and cause its own set of problems. While Hummer says adjustability is relative, he explains that it’s particularly important for people recovering from injury or surgery because muscle tone and girth in the knee can change in these circumstances. A brace that can handle size changes will be particularly useful, he says, adding that this can sometimes be accomplished with a moldable brace. Lastly, he notes that sometimes adjustability is used to change the force that is being applied to the knee, as with an unloader brace. We spoke with these experts during our research: What knee brace do doctors recommend? When it comes to doctor-recommended brands, Wu notes that many doctors recommend DonJoy knee braces. However, she adds that by the time someone is seeing a doctor, they may be facing a more serious injury such as an ACL or MCL tear. As a result, they will need more assistance with unloading the joint or restricting motion, and most likely will require a medical-grade brace, which can’t be purchased over the counter. Do knee braces really work? The short answer is yes. According to Wu, knee braces can help the joint feel supported, decrease compression, and maintain warmth, which can lower the sensation of pain while also increasing mobility. What are the disadvantages of wearing a knee brace? Wu says overreliance on a knee brace can bring about its own set of issues, noting that overuse can weaken the musculature surrounding the knee joint. Furthermore, the skin underneath can be irritated if the brace is too tight or if proper hygiene isn’t accounted for. Lastly, she tells us that if the brace is too tight, it can irritate your nerves. Hummer also cautions against poorly made knee braces, which he says can put harder materials like plastic directly against your knee, causing impingement on the skin. Jack Byram is a freelance writer who covers all things fitness and wellness related. As an avid exerciser who is concerned with longevity and being able to keep doing what he loves, he is a proponent of products like knee sleeves that promote compression to keep the knee joints safe and healthy. Jack holds a bachelor’s degree in English from Fordham University and enjoys offering expert insight from medical professionals.:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/VWH-best-knee-braces-for-arthritis-4684042-2261e5984fbc4cc88d996768ab0ec01a.jpg "Not All Knee Braces Are Created Equal—We Break Down What Makes a Good One and Who Might Benefit (1)")
Who Can Benefit from a Knee Brace?
Best Overall
Shock Doctor Knee Compression Sleeve
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Why We Recommend It
Keep in Mind
Type: Compression | Sizes: S–XXL | Knee: Both | Materials: Neoprene, nylon, polyester, rubber Why We Recommend It
Keep in Mind
Type: Straps | Sizes: One size | Knee: Both | Materials: Latex Why We Recommend It
Keep in Mind
Type: Hinged/sleeve | Sizes: S–XL | Knee: Both | Materials: Neoprene, spandex, meshBest for Arthritis
PowerLix Knee Compression Sleeve
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Why We Recommend It
Keep in Mind
Type: Compression | Sizes: S–XXL | Knee: Both | Materials: Nylon, spandex Why We Recommend It
Keep in Mind
Type: Sleeve | Sizes: S–XL | Knee: Both | Materials: Neoprene Why We Recommend It
Keep in Mind
Type: Brace | Sizes: 1–7 | Knee: Left/right | Materials: Polyamid, glasfaser, TPS, elastodiene, polyurethane, elasthan, viscose, polyester, polyoxymethylene, cotton, TPU Why We Recommend It
Keep in Mind
Type: Sleeve | Sizes: S-XL | Knee: Both | Materials: NeopreneBest for Sports
Cambivo Knee Brace Compression Sleeve 2 Pack
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Why We Recommend It
Keep in Mind
Type: Sleeve | Sizes: S–XXXL | Knee: Both | Materials: Nylon, spandex, latex Why We Recommend It
Keep in Mind
Type: Brace with hinges | Sizes: Medium, large | Knee: Both | Materials: Aluminum, other materials not listed Why We Recommend It
Keep in Mind
Type: Brace | Sizes: S–XL | Knee: Both | Materials: NeopreneBest Compression
Rehband Knee-Sleeve for Weightlifting
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Why We Recommend It
Keep in Mind
Type: Sleeve | Sizes: XS–XXL | Knee: Both | Materials: Polyamide, SBR, neopreneBest Versatile
McDavid Knee Support Wrap
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Why We Recommend It
Keep in Mind
Type: Wrap | Sizes: S-XL | Knee: Both | Materials: Nylon, polyester, spandex Why We Recommend It
Keep in Mind
Type: Brace with straps | Sizes: S–XXL | Knee: Both | Materials: Neoprene Why We Recommend It
Keep in Mind
Type: Sleeve | Sizes: XS–XXXL | Knee: Both | Materials: Nylon, polyester, spandexBest With Patella Gel Pads
Bodyprox Knee Brace with Side Stabilizers
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Why We Recommend It
Keep in Mind
Type: Brace | Sizes: One size, and XL | Knee: Both | Materials: Neoprene What to Look for in a Knee Brace
Type
Materials
Adjustability
Our Experts
Frequently Asked Questions
Why Trust Verywell Health
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See Also
Orthopedic Bracing: Types, Uses, and Effectiveness - Advanced Orthopedics New EnglandBraces and Splints for Common Musculoskeletal ConditionsOrthopedic Shoulder Braces & Support for Good PostureThese Top Ankle Braces Help You Stay Active and Prevent Injuries:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/donjoy-performance-bionic-fullstop-acl-knee-brace-ee23e6b7376942d1852c279601bfdd7c.jpg "Not All Knee Braces Are Created Equal—We Break Down What Makes a Good One and Who Might Benefit (4)")
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:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/bauerfeind-genutrain-s-knee-support-4da6dd41b8d54509b1f3b4e654739880.jpg "Not All Knee Braces Are Created Equal—We Break Down What Makes a Good One and Who Might Benefit (7)")
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:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/doufurt-knee-brace-stabilizer-9a539289805e4275b6e02d56afcbb0c7.jpg "Not All Knee Braces Are Created Equal—We Break Down What Makes a Good One and Who Might Benefit (11)")
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/mcdavid-knee-brace-support-with-side-stays--compression-cd3543529d9c405caf6f31efb832978e.jpg "Not All Knee Braces Are Created Equal—We Break Down What Makes a Good One and Who Might Benefit (14)")
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