Table of Contents
Knee Sleeves
In the world of fitness and athletics, knee injuries are all too common. Whether you’re an avid weightlifter, a passionate runner, or a casual gym-goer, protecting your knees should be a top priority. This is where knee sleeves come into play. Knee sleeves have gained significant popularity in recent years, becoming an essential accessory for athletes and fitness enthusiasts alike. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the world of knee sleeves, exploring their benefits, types, how to choose the right one for you, and their impact on performance and injury prevention.
What Are knee sleeves?
First things first. What in the world are knee sleeves? That is a very strange name for something.
Knee sleeves are compression garments designed to provide support, stability, and protection to the knee joint. Made from a blend of materials such as neoprene, elastic, and nylon, knee sleeves offer a snug fit around the knee, exerting pressure to enhance blood flow, reduce pain, and improve proprioception. Unlike knee braces, which are primarily used for injury rehabilitation, knee sleeves are commonly worn during workouts or sports activities as a preventative measure or to aid in recovery.
What are they made from?
They are compression garments made from a soft neoprene material. They are made to surround the entire knee joint. The interesting thing is that they come in a variety of thicknesses. I found that the thicknesses have a purpose.
Sizes
The sizes are 3mm, 5 mm, and 7mm. When I read about the different thicknesses, I wondered why. I out together a table so you can see a comparison of each of the sizes.
| Thickness | Reason | Benefits |
| 3mm | Endurance Sports | Benefits athletes in endurance and long-distance training |
| 5mm | Mixed Activity | Benefits the athlete in a varied training where both agility and support is required. |
| 7mm | Shorter, Heavier Activity | Offers powerful stabilization for heavy lifting and extra support during rehabilitation. |
When I saw the sizes, I knew that I needed the 7mm. The 7mm sleeve is designed specifically for the workouts that I do. I lift more than the average person. “Historically, the 7mm has been mostly used by weightlifters needing extra support during a lift, but today it is also common in gym fitters for those doing heavy lifting. The 7mm gives a very distinct receptive input and awareness of the knee, to ensure that shorter activities are performed more precisely and securely.” (2)
I was sold! Now that I knew more about them, I decided to find the best one for me that would fit into my budget. But, I did not want to sacrifice quality for cheap. I like to do most of my shopping online. I read reviews and make the best decision I can from those reviews.
Benefits of Knee Sleeves
Enhanced Stability and Support
Knee sleeves provide valuable stability and support to the knee joint, helping to reduce the risk of injuries such as sprains, strains, and ligament tears. The compression provided by knee sleeves helps to improve proprioception, which is the body’s awareness of joint position, thus promoting better movement control.
Increased Performance
By offering compression and warmth, knee sleeves can improve blood flow and enhance muscle activation, resulting in increased performance. The additional support provided by knee sleeves allows athletes to lift heavier weights, run with better form, and perform dynamic movements more confidently.
Joint Pain Relief
Many individuals suffer from chronic knee pain due to conditions like arthritis or previous injuries. Knee sleeves can help alleviate pain and discomfort by providing compression and warmth to the affected area. The compression stimulates blood flow, reduces inflammation, and helps in the recovery process.
Types of Knee Sleeves
Neoprene Knee Sleeves
Neoprene knee sleeves are the most common type and are favored for their durability, flexibility, and heat retention properties. They provide excellent compression and stability, making them suitable for a wide range of activities such as weightlifting, running, and CrossFit.
Elastic Knee Sleeves
Elastic knee sleeves are made from stretchy materials such as spandex and nylon. They offer moderate compression and are often chosen for activities that require a greater range of motion, such as yoga or functional fitness exercises.
Open Patella vs. Closed Patella
Knee sleeves come in two main designs: open patella and closed patella. Open patella sleeves have a hole over the kneecap, providing pressure around the surrounding areas while leaving the patella exposed. Closed patella sleeves, on the other hand, offer full coverage of the kneecap, providing additional support to the patella itself. The choice between open and closed patella depends on personal preference and the specific needs of the individual.
Choosing the Right Knee Sleeve
Proper Sizing and Fit
Ensuring the right size and fit is crucial when choosing knee sleeves. A proper fit should be snug but not overly tight, allowing for a full range of motion while providing adequate compression and support. Most manufacturers provide sizing charts to help you find the right fit based on your
measurements.
Activity and Intensity
Consider the type of activity and the level of intensity you engage in when selecting knee sleeves. For heavy weightlifting or high-impact activities, neoprene sleeves with strong compression are recommended. For activities that require more flexibility and mobility, elastic sleeves may be a better choice.
Quality and Durability
Invest in knee sleeves from reputable brands known for their quality and durability. Cheaper sleeves may not provide adequate support or may wear out quickly, compromising their effectiveness and longevity. Read reviews and seek recommendations to ensure you choose a reliable product.
Caring for Knee Sleeves
To maintain the effectiveness and longevity of knee sleeves, proper care is essential. Handwashing with mild detergent, air drying, and avoiding excessive heat or direct sunlight are recommended. Regularly inspect the sleeves for signs of wear and tear, and replace them as needed to ensure optimal support and protection.
Reviews
One of the first places I go to look at reviews is Amazon. I filter by the stars and look for the highest rated ones. There are many choices. I also wanted to compare them to the one I had seen advertised. Powerbend was the knee sleeve that I had seen advertised. As luck would have it, they are not sold on Amazon. I went to their site to read their reviews. You can find those here.
When I read the reviews, I was sold. I found this gem! Power Bend was the one that I decided on. Let me tell you, when I got these and tried them out, I felt like a new man! The support they give me while I workout is amazing. I loved them so much that I bought another pair.Â
I am done with traditional knee wraps. Over the years my knees have suffered a lot. From playing football at both a collegiate and professional level to the every day grind when I run on pavement… my knees are not what they were when I was younger. I put these on and my legs and knees felt 15 years younger. I had a “bounce” in my step that I have not had in a long time.
Check this video out
Would you try these? If you want to try these out, make sure you order a size that fits snuggly. I ordered a Large. Let me know if you get them and what your thoughts are.
