The best knee brace to support and protect your knees come in a variety of styles. Some are designed similarly to compression sleeves and socks for overall support and a second-skin feel. In contrast, others have stout Velcro straps, patellar gel cushioning, and neoprene fabric for ultimate protective support. We searched high and low for the best knee braces for various issues; check out our list below and pick your favorite.
POWERLIX knee compression sleeve knee brace
Stretchy, supportive
Breathable, four-way stretch fabric and firm compression make this sleeve-style knee brace from PowerLix our top pick. Anti-slip silicone bands at each opening keep this sleeve firmly in place, no matter how vigorous your activity is. Its fabric is knit so that it's highly absorptive but supportive along each different zone it covers (i.e., shin, kneecap, upper thigh, or hamstring). PowerLix offers inclusive sizing as well, all the way up to XXL.
CAMBIVO 2-pack knee brace compression sleeve
Two in one
Unlike most brands, CAMBIVO sells its knee compression sleeves in a pair. This is especially convenient for those with arthritis, tendonitis, or similar conditions—sometimes both knees are affected. CAMBIVO recommends sizing down if you fall between two sizes to maintain sufficient compression. If you're allergic to latex, you should skip these particular sleeves; they should also be hand-washed and air-dried to avoid damage in the dryer.
Bodyprox knee brace with side stabilizers and patella gel pads
Kneecap stability
Universal sizing actually works out well for this knee brace by Bodyprox, with a stretchy outer sleeve secured by crossed Velcro straps. Flexible stabilization at the sides and a silicone gel patellar pad take the pressure and pain out of exercise or physically demanding work. The fabric itself is neoprene but still breathable; it even offers sweat absorption for a more comfortable fit.
Physix Gear Sport compression sleeve knee brace
Recovery focused
Lightweight enough to fit under a pair of jeans without cutting off your circulation, Physix Gear Sport's compression sleeve knee brace stays put without pinching thanks to silicone no-slip bands. Four-way Lycra gently but firmly supports your knee and keeps the joint comfortably warm, lessening stiffness without overheating.
IPOW 2-pack knee and patella stabilizer
Puts pressure where it's needed
IPOW's stabilizer brace is different from other knee braces and is meant for a specific leg region. It fits directly below the kneecap for patellar support and is fully adjustable between 10-18 inches, fitting most people. Soft fabric and a segmented core that curves to better support your knee make it's easy to wear and reduces chafing during long periods of activity.
TechWare Pro knee brace support with adjustable bi-directional straps
Adjustable all-over
Bi-directional Velcro straps and an open-patella design make TechWare Pro's knee brace support a great choice for those needing stability without weighty metal hinges. Soft neoprene cradles your leg around a patellar window, while three straps allow a customized fit and even pressure on each side of your knee joint. This brace may be adjustable, but it's not one-size-fits-all; TechWare Pro offers it in four sizes.
Searching for support and stability
Why you can trust Real Homes
With luck, your hunt for the best knee brace has come to an end. The wide variety of knee braces and compression sleeves on the market today offer an affordable solution for just about anyone's aches and pains.
Our best overall, PowerLix's sleeve-style knee brace offers uniform compression, knit seamlessly. It won't slip down or roll up, either; silicone bands on each opening eliminate that nuisance. Should you require more targeted support, then any brace with a patellar opening and adjustable straps is your best bet. TechWare Pro's triple-strapped knee brace gives firm stability and is offered in multiple sizes.
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Lili Angrisano is a Freelance Contributor for GardeningEtc and Real Homes. You'll find her designing her next cosplay, conquering her 700+ book (and counting!) Kindle library, or tending her apartment garden in her spare time.