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Whether you’re looking for a brand latest pair of the very best knee sleeves or replacing your old, worn-out ones, you’re probably seeking to maximize your squatting performance or minimize a chronic joint problem (hello there, creaky knees).

Breaking Muscle has a passionate team of fitness enthusiasts that features Olympic weightlifters, powerlifters, strength coaches, and private trainers. Altogether, we’ve tested over sixteen different knee sleeves. I personally have also been wearing knee sleeves for years during my squat sessions and, occasionally, for CrossFit Workouts of the Day (WODs). 

We selected the very best knee sleeves by dispensing nearly a dozen of them to our experienced product testing team of Olympic weightlifters and had them give advantages and disadvantages on each. We combined their hands-on feedback with the knee sleeve specs and their IPF & IWF approval status to present each an overall rating from 1 to five.

After all, part of selecting the very best knee sleeves means getting the right fit for you. As knee sleeves don’t have any universal sizing, we’ve only chosen brands with a helpful size chart, so you’ll be able to get the best fit in your first try.

Our Top Picks for the Best Knee Sleeves

Best Knee Sleeves Overall: DMOOSE Knee Sleeves

Pros

• Extra-supportive seven-millimeter thickness
• Durable double-stitching
• 30-day guarantee
• Three colours
• Five sizes

Cons

• No XS size
• No exchanges or returns after opening
• Not IPF or IWF-approved

The DMOOSE knee sleeves are the very best knee sleeves overall on account of their supportive seven-millimeter thick neoprene material, construct quality, and 30-day money-back guarantee.

Constituted of neoprene, these offer an incredible amount of stretch and support on your knees. Seven millimeters is the best thickness for lower-body strength training. Whilst you’ll feel essentially the most support on knee-focused exercises like squats, lunges, and step-ups, you’ll also feel the advantages of DMOOSE’s knee sleeves in posterior-chain movements, like deadlifts and good mornings. 

The double-stitching on these sleeves makes the seams much less more likely to begin unraveling. It also adds an additional layer of durability, supplying you with greater peace of mind that they’ll last years of solid use.

DMOOSE offers a 30-day money-back guarantee, which is great for support products on the whole, and is one in all the one corporations out of all of the knee sleeve options in this text that provides a money-back guarantee. While lower-quality knee sleeves may feature a lower cost tag, they sometimes come without this assurance. If the DMOOSE knee sleeves don’t meet your standard, you’ll be able to get your a reimbursement.

The sizes available for these knee sleeves are more limited than other brands, running from small to double extra-large. Because of this, lifters with smaller or exceptionally large legs may need a tougher time finding a really perfect fit. If this concerns you, consider the SBD sleeves as a substitute — they provide 11 different sizes.

DMOOSE’s return policy might be higher. They provide free returns but don’t accept opened products, based on their return policy. Which means as soon as you physically open your knee sleeve’s package, you’ll lose the chance to exchange or return them if you happen to got the incorrect size. For this reason, make sure you accurately measure based on their sizing chart to maximise the probabilities of ordering the right size. That said, you’d technically be eligible for a return under their 30-day guarantee in the event that they don’t perform satisfactorily in that timeframe.

Unfortunately, these knee sleeves aren’t IPF or IWF-approved. For competitive powerlifters and weightlifters, you’ll need to look elsewhere for knee sleeves permitted for a meet under either of those federations.

All of the above considered, we rank these 4.5 out of 5 stars for his or her extra-supportive seven-millimeter thickness, durable double-stitching, and 30-day guarantee.

Best Knee Sleeves for Squats: Gymreapers 7mm Knee Sleeves

Pros

• Durable neoprene and reinforced stitching 
• Approved to be used in IPF
• Backed by 1-year substitute warranty
• Free returns from america 
• Features a free carrying bag
• Three colours

Cons

• Only five sizes can be found
• Return policy might be improved

I’ve owned the Gymreapers 7mm Knee Sleeves for over two years and use them at the very least once per week. Not only are the neoprene material and stitching quality impressive, but I like their 7mm thickness. It makes them supportive but not so restrictive that I actually have to take them off or roll them down between sets. Plus, they rarely slide down unless I wear a pair of slick leggings, and even then, it’s only minor adjustments between sets. Despite the consistent use I’ve put them through, the perimeters are all still intact, and there are not any signs of framing within the seams — these get an A+ for durability in my books.

The Gymreapers 7mm knee sleeves are approved by the International Powerlifting Federation (IPF). That is great if you happen to’re a competitive powerlifter or aspire to compete in one of the recognized federations worldwide because you’ll be able to train with the identical gear you’ll be competing with. Practicing your squats with the very same support gear you’ll be using in your meets can offer noticeable physical and psychological advantages that would offer you an edge over your competitors.

A one-year substitute warranty also backs these knee sleeves. My knee sleeves from Gymreapers are still going strong after two years of consistent use, so I highly doubt you’ll ever need to make use of their warranty. But unlike a top quality squat rack, support wear like knee sleeves will accumulate wear and tear above a cosmetic level. Even if you happen to never need it, this policy is thoughtful and provides you peace of mind for a whole yr in a product space where warranties are rare. 

Gymreapers’ return policy might be higher for these knee sleeves. On the time of writing, their return policy claims that they don’t accept returns which were worn or washed or have visible signs of use. Nevertheless, I seriously doubt Gymreapers would reject a return since you tried on the knee sleeves, realized they don’t fit accurately, and either want an exchange or your a reimbursement. Leg proportions and design vary widely, so it may be difficult to get the best size, even with their size guide. So, if you happen to want the power to return or exchange them, keep this in mind before purchasing.

I discovered the dimensions chart accurate and the fit excellent, but it surely could be helpful in the event that they offered more sizes. Gymreapers features five sizes (S to XXL), which is standard for knee sleeves. That said, those that are more petite or have lean legs may find that even the small size continues to be too big to suit accurately.

All of the above considered, we rank these 4.5 out of 5 stars for his or her durable neoprene, reinforced stitching, IPF approval, and one-year substitute guarantee.

Best Knee Sleeves for Powerlifting: SBD Powerlifting Knee Sleeves

Pros

• Approved for IPF & IWF use
• Patented, world-renowned SBD construction
• 11 sizes available: 3XS to 5XL
• Manufactured in Great Britain
• Great exchange policy

Cons

• Difficult to placed on
• Expensive at $125 per pair

SBD is world-renowned in powerlifting circles as the highest alternative for knee sleeves because they’re incredibly supportive, are manufactured in Great Britain, and also you’re almost guaranteed to seek out a really perfect fit amongst their 11 sizes.

In case you want the crème de la crème of knee sleeves for powerlifting, look no further than the SBD powerlifting sleeves. They’re approved by the International Powerlifting Federation (IPF), which makes them suitable for IPF-affiliated powerlifting competitions. Aspiring world-record-setting powerlifters trust this brand, so it’s hard to go incorrect if powerlifting is essential to you.

The SBD knee sleeves are built from high-density seven-millimeter neoprene, which SBD claims offers maximum compression and phone area on your knees as they bend. Their patented design also boasts a four-way stretch that enables them to maintain the high compression they’re known for without gagging around your knees during your lift. A product tester from the Breaking Muscle team put the SBDs through squats, cleans, snatches, and split squats. He noticed that despite their high compression level, they didn’t feel super restrictive. Which means they’ll proceed feeling comfortable during lengthy squat workouts. 

I used to be immediately impressed with the dimensions range of the SBD knee sleeves. They carry a staggering 11 different sizes, from 3XS to 5XL! With this many sizes and an in depth fit guide, you’re practically guaranteed to seek out your ideal fit. In case you don’t succeed on the primary order, they provide a terrific exchange policy: the knee sleeves could also be tried on but can’t be used for a workout, and you’ll be able to request an exchange as much as 30 days after receiving them. Regarding exchange policies, I feel that is one in all the fairest of all corporations in this text.

The SBDs are manufactured in Great Britain (GB), which immediately sets them above most knee sleeve brands that import theirs from overseas manufacturers. There are higher manufacturing and employee standards in GB, so you’ll be able to trust the high-grade neoprene and double stitching to carry firm as you hit latest PRs.

Our product tester found the sleeves lived as much as their hard-to-get-on repute; that they had to be folded in half after which dragged up his lower legs before being rolled over. Because they’re so grippy, you’ll get a mini arm workout to begin your squatting session. Applying a little bit of baby powder to your legs beforehand could make this experience noticeably easier.

The value of those knee sleeves can be one in all the very best on this list at $125.00 per pair. Unless you’re a competitive powerlifter or want the very best on your powerlifting-style squat sessions, there are cheaper options, just like the Gymreapers 7mm Knee Sleeves. 

All of the above considered, we rank these 4.2 out of 5 stars for his or her IPF & IWF approval, world-renowned construction, and 11 sizes available.

Best Knee Sleeves for Arthritis: IMAK Compression Arthritis Knee Sleeves

Pros

• Soft and stretchy cotton-spandex mix
• Provides warmth and mild compression
• Affordably priced at $17.99
• May be worn all day or all night

Cons

• Might roll down over the day
• Limited sizes

The IMAK Compression Knee Sleeves are comprised of soft cotton and stretchy spandex to supply comfort and mild compression all day (or night), making them the very best knee sleeves for arthritis.

These compression sleeves are comprised of a soft and stretchy cotton-spandex mix. This material combo makes it easy so that you can slide them on and off. Being 92% cotton, they’ll offer warmth while still being breathable, so that they won’t cause your knees to sweat excessively.

The thickness of the knee sleeve wasn’t listed on their product page, but one customer mentioned the IMAKs are so lightweight that they forget they even have them on. It means they won’t be too compressive, so you’ll be able to wear all of them day or night without worrying about cutting off your circulation. For those with arthritis, that is thing. In the event that they were super thick and ponderous, they might be noticeable across the clock, and wearing them for long periods could be completely off the table. The cotton material may also help soothe some symptoms of arthritis by providing warmth to your knees. 

They’re pretty inexpensive, which is probably going on account of most of their material being cotton, a more economical option than neoprene. Nevertheless, they’re also sold in singles, which is great, as you should buy a single sleeve in case your arthritis is in a single knee only. In case you need a pair of them, they’re still priced economically. Retailing at just $17.99 on the time of writing, they’re essentially the most budget-friendly knee sleeves in this text, even when a pair is bought. So far as non-invasive treatments go for arthritic knees, these knee sleeves are a terrific low-cost option.

Unfortunately, the IMAK knee sleeves are only available in five sizes. In case you’re extra petite or have extra-lean legs, you may find that the XS size isn’t sufficiently small. Similarly, their sizes cap out at an XL — which can pose a problem if you happen to or your knees are significantly larger than average.

The IMAKs could have trouble staying in place throughout the whole day. They’ve a stretchy tri-band, but on account of their lighter compression material, they won’t be as proof against movement on the knee. One reviewer mentioned that their knee sleeves kept rolling down on them, but other reviews didn’t mention this, so that will have been a problem of improper sizing.

All of the above considered, we rank these 4 out of 5 stars for his or her cotton-spandex mix, warmth and compression, and inexpensive price.

RELATED: Got Knee Pain? Fix Your Tracking within the Squat and Lunge

Best Knee Sleeves for Weightlifting: Iron Bull Strength 7mm Knee Sleeves

Pros

• IWF- and IPF-approved
• High-grade neoprene and double-stitched seams
• 30-day money-back guarantee
• Seven colours available

Cons

• Return policy might be higher
• Shipping policy might be improved

Iron Bull Strength’s knee sleeves are approved by the International Weightlifting Federation (IWF). For actively competing veterans and beginner weightlifters just starting out, having the ability to train with the very same equipment that you just’ll be competing with is a definite advantage. After training recurrently with them, you’ll feel comfortable with the compression and support as you squat out of the opening on a heavy clean or snatch. Having practice with this before your competition makes the difference between them being a performance enhancer as a substitute of a distraction.

What I’m most impressed about regarding the Iron Bull Strength knee sleeves is their dual approval. These sleeves are also approved to be used within the IPF. Typically, knee sleeves are designed explicitly for powerlifting or weightlifting use — being certified for each sports at the very best level is a rarity. In case you prefer to dabble in these strength sports or wish to without sinking more cash in support gear, these are the sleeves for you.

These knee sleeves are comprised of high-grade neoprene. They feature extra durable double-stitched welded seams that, based on Iron Bull Strength, are incredibly strong and significantly reduce the danger of failure. This is strictly what any serious weightlifter wants — gear they will trust when training and on the platform.

Iron Bull comes with a 30-day return policy, starting if you receive your knee sleeves. Nevertheless, they have to be in the identical condition you received them in: unworn/unused, with the tags intact, and in the unique packaging. In other words, they need to be brand latest. Meaning you’ll be able to’t even try them on without losing your ability to return or exchange them, which we don’t love.

Plus, if you happen to do find yourself needing to return them, it’ll be at personal cost. Original shipping costs are non-refundable unless damaged, defective, or there’s a shipping error. Be certain to make use of their detailed sizing chart to reduce the danger of ordering the incorrect size.

All of the above considered, we rank these 4.5 out of 5 stars for his or her IWF and IPF approval, high-grade neoprene with double-stitched seams, and 30-day money-back guarantee.

RELATED: The way to Train the Squat for Each Powerlifting and Weightlifting

Best Knee Sleeves for CrossFit: Element 26 Agility Knee Sleeves

Pros

• Unrestricting three-millimeter thickness
• Breathable & sweat-wicking material
• Comfortable tapered shape
• Lifetime warranty on manufacturing defects

Cons

• Only three sizes can be found
• Not IPF/IWF approved
• Just one color option

CrossFit is widely known for its exercise variety, from one-rep max squats to hour-long conditioning sessions. For this reason exercise range, finding knee sleeves for CrossFit generally is a serious challenge. Three-millimeter sleeves are ideal when joint mobility and luxury are prioritized, like for longer cardio-focused WODs. Meanwhile, seven-millimeter knee sleeves offer the very best support and compression for heavy strength training.

Because of this, CrossFitters often resort to purchasing TWO separate pairs of knee sleeves and using the one which best aligns with the WOD they’ll be doing. It is a mistake that finally ends up costing them twice as much. 

Enter the Element 26 Agility Knee Sleeves.

The Element 26s are a light-weight sleeve, making them ideal for CrossFit. They’re only 3mm thick, offering excellent mobility for those longer endurance-focused WODs. Since they’re considerably thinner than 7mm knee sleeves, they’ll even be more comfortable and fewer restrictive for the conditioning components of your WODs like running, skipping, or rowing.

Contrary to what some CrossFitters think, they don’t need super thick knee sleeves because Crossfit isn’t nearly lifting heavy — it’s about being a tremendous all-round athlete. Because of this, a pair of 7mm sleeves often finally ends up being too thick and complete overkill. Ultimately, this implies you’ll be able to put money into and wear one pair of knee sleeves…no more flipping between two pairs or spending money you don’t need to!

The Element 26s are highly crafted to make sure they’re as breathable as will be. They’re built with a hybrid nylon-elastic mix, which is designed to soak up sweat and evaporate it to maintain you more comfortable. For serious CrossFitters, every legitimate advantage can offer you an edge in crushing your WODs with the very best time possible — including effective sweat management, especially in hot gyms.

In keeping with Element 26, these knee sleeves are anatomically designed. This likely means they’re made in a tapered shape to follow the natural contours of the typical lifter’s leg, knee, and calf sizes. As such, they need to stay in place without bunching behind your knees, which will be uncomfortable and cause your skin to rub.

For knee sleeves, this feature is seriously underrated — especially for CrossFit. The very last thing you would like in your WODs is to tug your knee sleeves up after every burpee because they’re sliding down or readjust them after every set of wall balls because they’re bunching up behind your knees and causing your skin to chafe. 

Only three sizes can be found (S to L). CrossFit and other similar training styles are rising in popularity, so I’m dissatisfied that there isn’t a more extensive range of sizes.

The IPF or IWF doesn’t approve these for competition use. Nevertheless, I don’t think that matters if you happen to’re using them for CrossFit because they’re not designed to squeeze out every drop of your powerlifting or weightlifting performance — they’re made to enable you perform higher as a hybrid athlete.

All of the above considered, we rank these 4.5 out of 5 stars for his or her unrestricting 3mm thickness, breathable & sweat-wicking material, and comfy tapered shape.

RELATED: Best CrossFit Shoes for Flat Feet, Wide Feet, and More (2023)

Best Budget Knee Sleeves: DMOOSE Reversible Knee Sleeves

Pros

• Budget-friendly price
• Solid overall construction 
• USPA-approved
• Reversible 2-sided colours
• Includes storage bag

Cons

• Not IPF/IWF-approved
• Principal material not listed

On the time of writing, the DMOOSE Reversibles retail at $39.00 but were on sale at $35.00. For knee sleeves, this is a superb price on the 7mm thickness. Great quality 7mm knee sleeves generally range between $50.00 and $70.00, with the higher-end coming from popular name brands. Being only 35% of the associated fee of the top-tier SBD Powerlifting knee sleeves, these are definitely nearby for the budget-conscious lifter.

I’m impressed with the standard of those sleeves despite their economical price. With lower prices, you’ll normally see obvious corners cut: no double-stitched seams, 3-5mm thickness, and poor matches. Nevertheless, these Reversibles break the mold in each category. 

They share the identical durable double-stitched seams of dearer sleeves, which implies you get the identical reassurance from knee sleeve blowouts. They feature the identical 7mm thickness as pricier brands, so that you get the identical extra-supportive fee in your squats. They’re even anatomically shaped to make sure they’ll fit accurately for most individuals.

I’m pleasantly surprised that these are approved by america Powerlifting Association (USPA). To supply the bottom price, corporations normally cut costs wherever they will, and competition approval is usually the primary to be discarded since the approval process is dear. It’s only a single powerlifting federation, however the proven fact that these are approved for in-competition use within the USPA — which claims they’re the most important powerlifting federation — is a giant plus. 

Despite being USPA-approved, they aren’t permitted for competition use within the IPF or IWF, and it’s unlikely they ever will likely be. As essentially the most prestigious federations for powerlifting and weightlifting on the earth, respectively, approval costs for equipment are significantly higher. Seeing these are budget-friendly knee sleeves, I feel the shortage of certification is entirely comprehensible.

The product page doesn’t specify what material these reversible knee sleeves are made from. Quality knee sleeves are almost all the time made with neoprene due to its stretchy support and compression. Nevertheless, low cost knee sleeves will be made with similar-feeling materials which can be lower in quality and sturdiness than neoprene. Unlike the DMOOSE knee sleeves that won our Best Knee Sleeves Overall, assuming neoprene is the first material won’t be smart considering they’re such a budget-friendly price.

All of the above considered, we rank these 4 out of 5 stars for his or her budget-friendly price, solid overall construction, and USPA approval.

Best Knee Sleeves for Running: Rehband 3mm Knee Sleeves

Pros

• 3mm thickness is right for running
• Reputably handmade in Europe
• Seven sizes can be found for a really perfect fit
• Suits left or right knee
• Multiple colours

Cons

• Not supportive enough for CrossFit
• Partially comprised of lower-grade neoprene

With regards to knee support while running, these Rehbands take the cake. They’re built with neoprene but in a light-weight 3mm thickness, which is excellent so far as thickness goes. 

While great for weight lifting, 7mm is just too much support and compression for running — even a thinner 5mm continues to be too thick. 3mm lets you use your regular stride without modifying it unnaturally on your knee sleeve. The 3mm thickness keeps your knees warm while allowing for ample flexibility as you hit the road for miles, making it the very best option for running.

Rehband has been around since 1955, and these knee sleeves are a testament to their repute as an organization. They’re handmade in Estonia, so that they must adhere to higher manufacturing and dealing standards than other countries overseas, who might cut corners of their construction processes, or mistreat employees — leading to lower-quality products. This implies you’ll be able to depend on knee sleeves from Rehband being higher quality than cheaper alternatives.

These knee sleeves for running are available in seven sizes, from XXS to XXL. I’m completely satisfied to see this range of sizes because whether you may have lean or heavily muscled legs, you’ll be able to be reasonably sure you’ll discover a size that may fit. More importantly, using their size chart to seek out a really perfect size on your leg proportions will ensure your knee sleeves stay in place on your runs. 

These Rehbands aren’t ideal for CrossFit. The 3mm thickness is just too thin to offer noticeable support for the heavier loads and impacts seen in strength-focused WODs from thrusters, box jumps, and barbell back squats. In case you select to make use of them for CrossFit anyway, they’ll still offer warmth and proprioception on your knees.

The Rehband 3mm’s are comprised of 70% SBR (styrene butadiene rubber). In comparison with neoprene, SBR is lower quality since it has less compressive resistance. This could be an even bigger concern if you happen to needed to make use of them for weight lifting, so that they’ll be just positive for running

All of the above considered, we rank these 4 out of 5 stars for his or her ideal thickness for running, reputable manufacturing, and 7 sizes available.

RELATED: Size Doesn’t Matter – But Your Technique Does (For Running, That Is)

Advantages of Knee Sleeves

Compression and Support

Knee sleeves offer a dual advantage of compression and support on your knees during lower body workouts, especially for exercises that involve bending and increasing your knees. 

The compression they supply not only enhances blood circulation but in addition stabilizes the encompassing ligaments, tendons, and your kneecap. This added stability is a game-changer whether you’re an athlete or fitness enthusiast, allowing you to perform at your best while minimizing the danger of injury.

Increased Blood Flow

Considered one of the often-overlooked advantages of knee sleeves is their ability to advertise increased blood flow to the knee area. The compression from knee sleeves generates a mild warmth, which feels comfortable and encourages higher circulation.

Assistance “Out of the Hole” When Squatting 

For avid weightlifters, knee sleeves generally is a lifeline for squats. They provide crucial assistance through the initial phase of a squat’s ascent, commonly called “coming out of the opening.” By providing additional support and stability, knee sleeves help lifters push through this difficult point of their squat, which generally is a secret weapon in achieving latest personal bests.

Increased Proprioception

Wearing knee sleeves can boost your proprioception, the body’s awareness of its position in space. With knee sleeves, you’ll have a heightened sense of where your knees are during squats, lunges, and step-ups. This increased awareness could make a big difference, helping you maintain proper form and alignment. You’ll be more attuned to the way in which your knees bend and extend, potentially reducing the danger of improper movement that may result in injury.

What to Consider When Buying Knee Sleeves

Materials and Construction

Knee sleeves are comprised of various materials, depending on their purpose. 

Sleeves for arthritis are sometimes made with a cotton/spandex mix to make sure they’re breathable and comfy to wear all day.

3mm to 7mm knee sleeves will almost exclusively be made with “neoprene,” a singular kind of rubber-like foam material that’s also used as the first material for wetsuits. Due to its stretchy form-fitting properties, it’s considered the gold standard for knee sleeves. 

Reinforced stitching is required if you happen to need a pair of knee sleeves that won’t unravel after just a few months. This is usually practiced by double-stitching, though cross-pattern double-stitching, like what’s used on the Element 26’s, is even higher to cut back the probabilities of any threads coming loose.

Neoprene Quality

Neoprene comes in several qualities or grades, sometimes listed on knee sleeve product pages as SBR, SCR, and CR.

• SBR (styrene-butadiene-rubber) is the bottom quality of neoprene since it has lower compression resistance and is cheaper overall. Firms who don’t wish to disclose that they use this lower-quality SBR material may attempt to list it as “neoprene” without mentioning the standard or grade.
• CR (chloroprene rubber) is the very best quality of neoprene. Despite its higher price, it has great elasticity and strength, making it a wonderful alternative for knee sleeves. Firms might mention using high-quality/high-grade neoprene once they use CR to display that their knee sleeves are genuinely comprised of premium neoprene.
• SCR (styrene chloroprene rubber) is a medium-grade neoprene that mixes the properties and qualities of SBR and CR. This is an appropriate completely satisfied medium for knee sleeve material so far as quality and value go.

Thickness

Knee sleeves are available in various thicknesses depending on the activity you wish them for. 

• 3mm is comparatively thin and can only give light support and compression to your knees. For this reason, 3mm is best for cardio activities like running and endurance-focused CrossFit workouts, where you would like warmth and light-weight support that won’t impair your joint flexibility.
• 5mm to 6mm will offer a medium level of support and compression. Due to its thicker layer, it’s ideal for hybrid activities like resistance-focused CrossFit metcons and circuit training.
• 7mm gives noticeably more support and compression for weight lifting. Because of this, they’ll generally feel tighter, which makes them great for heavy squats, but they aren’t essentially the most comfortable for longer workouts over two hours. 

Sizing

For starters, all the time use the brand’s fit guide to make sure you select the right size of knee sleeves, providing a fit that’s not too tight or loose.

In case you want more come out of the opening, go for a tighter pair of knee sleeves by sizing down. In case you want them to be less compressive or restrictive, size up as a substitute.

Sleeve Shape and Fit

There are not any universal knee sleeve sizes or shapes, so the identical knee sleeve size can feel and fit completely in another way between two brands.

Generally, there are three knee sleeve shapes: straight, hourglass, and tapered. All of those shapes check with the difference in widths between the highest, middle, and bottom of the sleeve. 

• Straight is precisely because it sounds and is best for individuals with the identical size of thighs, knees, and calves.
• Hourglass-shaped sleeves are smaller on the kneecap but are designed for larger thighs and calves.
• Tapered is essentially the most common, which follows the usual anatomical shape of most individuals’s legs. The thighs are largest above the knee, followed by the knees, with the calves being the smallest.

Competition Approval

As a competitive powerlifter or weightlifter, practicing such as you play will provide you with a bonus come meet day. Competition-approved can help you use them in your training and get every pound out of them in your meet.

Federation rules vary widely, so check to see what knee sleeves are permitted on your federation. Nevertheless, powerlifters and weightlifters should consider the International Powerlifting Federation (IPF) and International Weightlifting Federation (IWF) approved equipment lists because the gold standards, respectively.

Competition-approved knee sleeves also are inclined to be more durable than their non-approved counterparts because the previous must meet a selected standard to be used in IPF and IWF meets.

Warranty

Warranties on support wear are underrated. I’d encourage you to not overlook one, just in case the knee sleeves don’t meet your performance standards or their threads unravel in just a few short months. 

I’d recommend settling for at least a six-month warranty. Support wear will inevitably wear and tear, so it’s unrealistic to expect them to endure perpetually. That said, a 1-year warranty is taken into account excellent for knee sleeves and will provide you with more peace of mind during your workouts.

Return Policy

To make sure you’re not stuck with a pair of ill-fitting knee sleeves, I like to recommend buying from an organization that provides a good return policy. That way, you’ll be able to exchange them or get your a reimbursement in the event that they don’t fit accurately.

On the bare minimum, they need to can help you return or exchange your knee sleeves inside 14 days of receiving them, and try to be allowed to try them on to verify the dimensions you select will work. Generous policies extend the return period to between 30 to 60 days.

Your Strength Level

Like all support wear, knee sleeves will experience wear and tear over time. Nevertheless, this process will speed up the stronger you’re. 

As advanced or elite-level strength athletes lift significantly heavier weights than rank novices, their knee sleeves will tackle more strain, wearing out faster. 

Colours

Not everyone loves the jet-black look. In case you like color-coordinating your workout outfits, consider shopping with a brand that provides multiple colours. 

It’s a creative solution to add a few of your personality to your lifting gear. Plus, it’ll be hard to misplace your knee sleeves in the event that they’re hot pink.

Final Thought

Knee sleeves are a wonderful tool for supporting your knees and improving your squatting performance. When it comes right down to it, though, picking the very best knee sleeves for you will depend on what you value regarding material, thickness, competition approval status, and more.

Best Knee Sleeves: Side-by-Side Comparison

Best Knee Sleeves Overall

Description:

• Material: Neoprene
• Thickness: Seven millimeters
• Available sizes: S to XXL
• IPF/IWF-approved: No

Best Knee Sleeves for Squats

Description:

• Material: Neoprene
• Thickness: 7mm
• Available sizes: S to XXL
• IPF/IWF-approved: IPF

Best Knee Sleeves for Powerlifting

Description:

• Material: Neoprene
• Thickness: 7mm
• Available sizes: 3XS to 5XL
• IPF/IWF-approved: IPF

Best Knee Sleeves for Arthritis

Description:

• Material: Cotton (92%) and spandex (8%)
• Thickness: Not listed
• Available sizes: XS to XL
• IPF/IWF-approved: No

Best Knee Sleeves for Weightlifting

Description:

• Material: Neoprene
• Thickness: 7mm
• Available sizes: S to XXL
• IPF/IWF-approved: Yes

Best Knee Sleeves for CrossFit

Description:

• Material: Nylon-elastic mix
• Thickness: 3mm
• Available sizes: S to L
• IPF/IWF-approved: No

Best Budget Knee Sleeves

Description:

• Material: Neoprene
• Thickness: 7mm
• Available sizes: S to XXL
• IPF/IWF-approved: No

Best Knee Sleeves for Running

Description:

• Material: 70% SBR/30% neoprene
• Thickness: 3mm
• Available sizes: XXS to XXL
• IPF/IWF-approved: No

FAQs

What’s the best-rated knee sleeve?

The perfect-rated knee sleeves are the DMOOSE Knee Sleeves on account of their supportive 7mm thick neoprene material, high construct quality, and 30-day money-back guarantee.

What are the very best weightlifting knee sleeves?

The perfect weightlifting knee sleeves are the Iron Bull Strength Knee Sleeves on account of their supportive 7mm thick neoprene, double-stitched seams, and International Weightlifting Federation (IWF) approval.

Are knee sleeves price it?

Yes, knee sleeves are price it for the additional support, warmth, and awareness they provide your knees while squatting.