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Choosing the Best Knee Brace
Make choosing the best knee brace easy with our selection of braces that offer a comprehensive range of supports, designed to accommodate the most common forms of knee pain. To help you decide, we took the time to explain exactly what to look for based on material, style, sizing, level of support, pain, and more. Plus, if you still need help deciding, we've included recommendations based on the most common reasons our customers wear knee braces.
The Types of Knee Braces We Offer
Standard Knee Brace
MaterialNeoprene StyleAdjustable Wrap PurposeCompression SizingAdjustable Support LevelMild to Medium RecommendationsTendonitis Pain, Arthritis Pain, Working Out
Hinged Knee Brace
MaterialNeoprene Blend StyleHinged Wrap PurposeCompression SizingAdjustable Support LevelMedium to Maximum RecommendationsACL or MCL Injuries, Torn Meniscus
Heavy Duty Hinged Knee Brace
MaterialNeoprene Blend StyleHinged Sleeve TypeCompression SizingS, M, L, XL, XXL Support LevelMaximum RecommendationsHyperextension, Post Op, Patellar Maltracking, Tendonitis
ROM Knee Brace
MaterialAluminum Alloy StyleHinged Wrap PurposeRange of Motion SizingAdjustable Support LevelMaximum RecommendationsPost Op, ACL or MCL Injuries
Patella Straps
MaterialNeoprene Blend StyleStrap PurposePatellar SizingAdjustable Support LevelMild to Medium RecommendationsRunning, Walking or Hiking, Tendonitis, Chondromalacia
Dual Patella Strap
MaterialNeoprene/Nylon StyleAdjustable Wrap PurposePatellar SizingS, M, L Support LevelMild to Medium RecommendationsPatellar Tendonitis, Walking, Runner's Knee
Multi-Purpose Wrap
MaterialPolyester Blend StyleStrap PurposeMulti-Purpose SizingOne Size Support LevelMild to Medium RecommendationsJoint Pain, Swelling
Stabilizing Knee Sleeve
MaterialNylon Blend StyleCompression Sleeve PurposeCompression SizingS to 4XL Support LevelModerate RecommendationsArthritis, Compression, Post Op, Tendonitis, Patellar Maltracking
Stabilizing Compression Knee Sleeve
MaterialNylon Blend StyleCompression Sleeve PurposeCompression SizingS to 4XL Support LevelMild RecommendationsPost Surgery/Injury, Patellar Maltracking, Arthritis
Compression Knee Sleeve with Straps
MaterialNylon/Spandex StyleAdjustable Wrap PurposeCompression SizingS to 3XL Support LevelMedium RecommendationsWorkouts, Daily Activity, Arthritis
Knee Sleeves
MaterialNylon Blend StyleCompression Sleeve PurposeCompression SizingS, M, L, XL, 2XL, 3XL Support LevelMild RecommendationsActivity, Arthritis, Tendonitis, Sprains
Athletic Knee Sleeves
MaterialNylon-Spandex StyleCompression Sleeve PurposeCompression SizingSmall or Large Support LevelMild RecommendationsSports, Compression
Cryogrid Knee Ice Wrap
MaterialNeoprene/Nylon StyleAdjustable Wrap PurposeCold Therapy SizingAdjustable Support LevelMild RecommendationsInjury Recovery, Cold Therapy, Pain Relief
Knee Ice Wrap
MaterialNeoprene Blend StyleAdjustable Wrap PurposeCold & Hot Therapy SizingAdjustable Support LevelMild RecommendationsIce or Heat Therapy, Pain Relief
Knee Ice Pack Dual Strap
MaterialNylon Blend StyleAdjustable Wrap PurposeCold Therapy SizingOne Size Support LevelMild RecommendationsIce Therapy, Pain Relief, Recovery
Compression Knee Ice Wrap
MaterialNeoprene Blend StyleAdjustable Wrap PurposeCold, Hot & Compression SizingAdjustable Support LevelMild to Maximum RecommendationsIce or Heat Therapy, Compression, Pain Relief, Swelling
Hot & Cold Ergonomic Wrap
MaterialGel/Nylon Blend StyleAdjustable Wrap PurposeCompression SizingOne Size Support LevelMild RecommendationsHot or Cold Therapy, Pain Relief, Swelling
Dr. Pat's Cold Compression Bandage
MaterialCotton/Polyester StyleAdjustable Strap PurposeCompression SizingOne Size Support LevelMild RecommendationsSwelling, Pain Relief, Recovery
What to Consider When Choosing Your Knee Brace
To make sure you're choosing the right brace to suit your needs, we'll break down all the crucial factors
Materials
Neoprene Blend
Our standard, hinged & patella knee braces are made from a durable neoprene blend. An industry standard, neoprene is the ideal material for braces because of its superior heat retention, breathability, moisture absorption, and resistance to stretching.
Nylon Blend
Our stabilizing knee sleeves, knee sleeves, and athletic knee sleeves offer a gentle nylon blend compression. This material is perfect for athletes and all-day wear. The nylon material is lightweight, breathable, and flexible — helping to improve blood flow and reduce aching joints.
Polyester
We use polyester because it is lightweight, durable, and resistant to shrinking or stretching. Its properties are moisture-wicking and help keep sweat away from the skin, making it comfortable and breathable.
Aluminum Alloy
Aluminum Alloy is both lightweight and durable, letting the wearer take advantage of maximum support for long-term recovery. Used to construct our ROM Knee Brace, it is also rust-proof, meaning it can withstand the elements for years without degrading.
Gel
You'll find a gel core inside the packs for our hot and cold braces. They are specifically designed to be flexible when frozen or heated and to retain the desired temperature longer than traditional ice packs.
Style
Adjustable Wrap
Our wrap-around design is one of the simplest yet effective for knee support. It consists of Velcro straps (usually on the top and bottom of the brace) which allow you to customize the fit and level of support, typically ranging in sizes from Small to Large, along with plus sizes. Plus, the adjustable straps make it easy to manage swelling throughout the recovery process.
Our Compression Knee Ice Wrap takes adjustability one step further, allowing you to customize your level of compression using a built-in valve and pump.
Hinged Wrap
Constructed with lateral hinges on either side of the knee, a hinged knee brace provides maximum and rigid support by stabilizing the knee and protecting vulnerable ligaments. This option is popular among athletes and those looking to protect the knee from re-injury.
We offer two different standard styles. Our Heavy Duty Hinged Knee Brace is designed with reinforced buckle straps and 2 additional adjustable straps for greater support. Choosing between the Heavy-Duty and standard Hinged Knee Brace will depend on the degree of support you are looking for.
Our ROM is the most robust option we offer and the standard for post-surgery and recovery from ACL, MCL, and PCL repair. It offers a variety of adjustabilities including the length of the brace and the allowed range of motion.
Compression Sleeve
The traditional knee compression sleeve is pulled up over the knee with no additional straps, adjustments, or built-in supports. This design solely relies on compression from the sleeve for relief, making proper sizing imperative for the best fit and adequate compression. They're lightweight and provide increased circulation during activity, and are recommended for arthritis, popping or clicking knee pain, and even athletes looking for more stability.
Looking for something with the minimal design of a compression sleeve but a bit more support? Our Stabilizing Knee Sleeves are unique in that they offer a lateral support spring on both sides of the knee for additional stability, not typically found in traditional compression sleeves.
Another versatile design we offer is the Compression Knee Sleeve. Made to provide all the benefits of a traditional knee sleeve with an added adjustable strap for the ability to customize for greater compression.
Straps
These are one-piece supports designed for a customizable fit and don't require you to slide the brace over your knee. This can be especially beneficial for swollen joints and is a great option for managing pain, plus providing secure support.
The Patella Strap applies targeted pressure to the knee joint. The minimal design adjusts to fit below the kneecap. These braces are popular because they protect the knee and provide additional support, without the full coverage of a standard knee support.
Another customer favorite is the Multi-Purpose Wrap, which provides personalized targeted support. For cooling relief on swollen or irritated joints, try the Dr. Pat's Cold Compression Bandage.
Purpose
Compression
The main purpose of compression is gentle support and heat retention, which improve blood flow. This is a good choice for managing swelling and for those looking to increase stability and stamina during activity, whether performing daily activities or participating in higher-intensity sports or workouts.
The Compression Knee Ice Wrap allows for customizable compression while cooling sore joints and ligaments. This design utilizes a pump + valve mechanism that can be adjusted to personal preference.
Range of Motion
Range-of-motion (ROM) braces help protect the knee by preventing the wearer from overextending the joint. They feature a rigid aluminum exterior lined with foam padding to maintain comfort. An adjustable dial makes it easy to fine-tune the range of motion, letting you choose when the brace locks. These braces are the most commonly prescribed for rehabilitation following a major knee injury or surgery. Check out the Range of Motion Knee Brace here.
Patellar
Designed to help stabilize and guide the kneecap (patella) as it moves during daily activities. By providing targeted support around the patella, they can improve tracking and reduce strain on surrounding tissues.
Cold and Hot Therapy
Hot and cold therapy can work wonders at soothing pain from knee injuries. Our Knee Ice Wraps are equipped with removable gel packs that can be heated or frozen. With adjustable straps, the braces can be easily strapped around the knee to provide full front, back, and side coverage. The best part is that each brace can be secured so that you can move around while icing or heating.
Take things up a notch with our Compression Knee Ice Wrap which offers the same great features, plus built-in adjustable compression for even more knee pain relief.
Check out our Hot and/or Cold Therapy Options
Open vs. Closed Patella
An open-patella knee brace exposes the kneecap to reduce pressure and provide adequate patellar tracking. This keeps the kneecap aligned and from shifting out of place as the leg bends. A closed patella design covers the kneecap completely to provide even compression across the entire knee. This type of brace does not hold the knee joint in place or prevent it from shifting.
If maximum support is what you need, look to our Standard or Hinged knee brace for an open patella design. For a closed patella brace and mild support, our compression sleeves are the better option.
| Brace | Patella Style |
|---|---|
| Standard Knee Brace | Open |
| Hinged Knee Brace | Open |
| Heavy Duty Hinged Knee Brace | Open |
| ROM Knee Brace | Open |
| Patella Straps | Open |
| Dual Patella Strap | Open |
| Stabilizing Knee Sleeve | Closed |
| Stabilizing Compression Knee Sleeve | Closed |
| Compression Knee Sleeve with Straps | Closed |
| Knee Sleeves | Closed |
| Athletic Knee Sleeves | Closed |
Sizing & Fit
Most of our knee supports come in varying sizes ranging from XS to 3XL; occasionally, supports are one-size-fits-all. Each product has a sizing guide to find the best fit. If you ever have questions on sizing or fit, you can contact our customer service, and we will be happy to help!
Level of Support
Depending on the knee brace you choose, the level of support varies from mild to maximum, and it's important to select a brace that meets your needs based on your condition.
Mild
Try a mild support brace if compression is your top priority, or you are recovering from minor aches or pains. Our knee sleeves and athletic knee sleeves are both great options, providing adequate support for conditions like arthritis, tendonitis, sprains, and strains.
Medium
Knee braces offering medium support are typically the most versatile option. They help to prevent injuries, provide stability during moderate exercise, and relieve arthritis or tendonitis pain — without restricting movement. Both our Standard and Hinged Knee Brace can be adjusted properly for medium support.
Maximum
Maximum support braces, like the Heavy Duty Hinged Brace, offer bilateral hinged support and multiple adjustable straps. They are often worn by athletes or those recovering from a serious injury to keep the joint aligned and protect it from overextension. Of our supports, the Hinged ROM Brace offers the maximum amount of support.
Recommendations for…
Still not sure which brace is perfect for you? Here's what we recommend based on common conditions our customers face.
Overall Support
If you're looking for protection you can wear throughout your daily activities, we recommend our Standard Knee Brace for overall support. The open patella design will help keep your knee joint strong and protected. The lightweight and breathable neoprene material is comfortable over the long term while remaining durable enough for regular use.
Running
If you want to prioritize lightweight flexibility, we recommend our Knee Sleeves. Popular among runners, these sleeves provide therapeutic compression and moderate support that increases circulation and relieves pain or stiffness in the knees. For more targeted support, consider our Patella Straps, which keep the patellar tendon aligned and knee pain at bay.
Pain Relief
After an injury, recurring pain is a common complaint due to swelling, sore joints, or ligament pain. Our Cryogrid Knee Ice Wrap provides long-lasting cold therapy relief. It securely straps around the knee for full coverage and doesn't require you to be sedentary while icing. The Compression Knee Ice Wrap is another great option for both hot and cold relief, with the added feature of adjustable compression for even more pain relief.
ACL or MCL Injury
ACL and MCL injuries are serious and need an extra-durable brace. To ensure a safe and fast recovery, choose our Hinged ROM Brace. With a lightweight aluminum body, this brace offers rigid protection and the ability to adjust the range of motion at the turn of a dial — the best way to get maximum stability and minimize the risk of reinjury. For injury prevention or late-stage recoveries, try our Heavy Duty Hinged Knee Brace.
Arthritis
Arthritis doesn't take a break, so finding comfortable support for everyday wear is crucial. The soft, breathable fabric of our Knee Sleeves stays comfortable while offering firm, all-over compression. It improves blood flow, reduces swelling and inflammation, and helps stabilize arthritic knees for effective pain management. Try Dr. Pat's Cold Compression Bandage for cooling relief during joint flare-ups.
Sports
Pushing your knees to the limit can take its toll after months or years, which is why a maximum support brace is the only option for athletes. Give our Hinged Knee Brace a try and see how its dual aluminum supports keep your knee joint aligned and ligaments protected during quick movements and high-intensity activities. Our Athletic Knee Sleeves are another good option that improves blood flow and athletic performance without a brace.
Working Out
For support during workouts we recommend our Stabilizing Knee Sleeve because it provides optimal support and compression, reduces joint strain, and improves stability. Its flexible, non-obstructive design allows for full range of motion. Another great option is our Standard Knee Brace, slightly more robust than the stabilizing sleeve, which protects you from injury while strength training.
Walking or Hiking
Whether you're a long-distance hiker or just trying to get in your daily steps, keeping your knees healthy is no easy task. A comfortable and simple solution is our Compression Knee Sleeve with Straps, which slides on easily and can be adjusted to your customized level of compression.
Compression
Our Stabilizing Knee Sleeves are an easy choice for compression relief. Designed to promote blood flow, regulate temperature, and reduce swelling, these sleeves are ideal for conditions like arthritis, tendonitis, clicking, or popping in the knee. The simple slip-on design can be conveniently worn under or over clothing. For more sedentary compression, try our Compression Knee Ice Wrap with adjustable compression for either hot or cold relief.
Torn Meniscus
A torn meniscus is a serious injury that can leave you out of commission for weeks. After clearance from your doctor, support recovery and prevent reinjury with our Hinged Knee Brace. It is designed to keep the knee fully aligned through movement and activity, and is also lightweight and wearable.
Frequently Asked Questions
Have lingering questions about buying a new knee brace? See what others like you are asking.
How do I know if I need a knee brace?
If you're experiencing consistent knee pain, or are recovering from a condition like an ACL or MCL injury, the hinged knee brace provides more rigid protection and support to the knee joint while playing sports.
Which knee brace is best for all day wear?
The standard knee brace is best for all day wear. It provides comfort and adjustable support for moderate to mild pain.
Can I wear a knee brace to bed?
Some customers complain about knee pain while sleeping, but these knee braces were not designed to be worn while sleeping and should be removed before bed. If you have knee pain at night, consider using a knee pillow for extra support that reduces knee pain (and even back pain) while sleeping.
How do I properly fit my knee brace?
When putting on your brace for the first time, try the two finger test for a perfect fit. Start by adjusting the Velcro strap of your brace so it's snug around your leg. Then, fit two fingers between the strap and your leg. If they don't fit, the brace is too tight; if you can fit a third finger in the brace, then it's too loose. We also recommend taking the brace with you to your next doctor's or physical therapy appointment to get a professional opinion and see that the knee brace fits properly.
Need More Help Deciding?
If you're still unsure about which knee brace is right for you, our customer service and product experts are standing by to help!
Get in touch via phone between 8:30 am and 9 pm EST daily at 1-800-487-3808 or email us at service@vivehealth.com.
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