Compression not only feels good to sore knees, it is also a key part of the recommended treatment for muscle, tendon and joint injuries known as RICE – rest, ice, compression and elevation. Compression works by limiting swelling and providing support so it is equally as effective for those who stand on their feet all day while working or who run to stay fit as it is for bodybuilders lifting some serious weight or people suffering from arthritis knee pain.
Research has also found that compression causes the arteries in our knees and legs to dilate which increases blood flow in those areas. And increased blood flow reduces pain, decreases muscle fatigue, improves athletic performance and speeds recovery from injury or intense workouts.
Another benefit of knee compression is simply warmth. The materials used in most knee compression sleeves along with their snug fit generate warmth that soothes post-injury soreness or lessens pain related to arthritis. In a nutshell, compression is a good thing for both protection and prevention.
What You Should Know
While knee compression sleeves are great for all the reasons mentioned above, you might also consider wearing them when you travel. Sitting in a car or plane for long periods can wreak havoc on muscles and blood flow. Knee sleeves help keep the blood moving.
Keep in mind that knee compression sleeves will not cure chronic conditions. Use them as an aid post-injury or for prevention and comfort only. And, finally, be cautious if you see or read about products that contain copper. Copper has been considered a folk medicine treatment for decades, but it cannot reduce inflammation or aid in blood flow in any way. It can, however, prevent your sleeve from retaining odor since it functions as an antibacterial.
As you explore options that will work best for you, our Guide to the Best Knee Compression Sleeve options will provide important information about which products work best and which are most practical for your particular needs and activity levels.
Top 10 Knee Compression Sleeves Comparison Chart
| Picture | Name | Quantity | Men or Women | Price | Rating (1-5) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 | 1. Ultra Flex Athletics Knee Compression | 1 | Either | $$ | 4.8 |
 | 2. Nordic Lifting Knee Sleeves | 2 | Either | $$$$ | 4.8 |
 | 3. Blitzu POWER+ Knee Compression | 2 | Either | $ | 4.7 |
 | 4. iDofit Knee Sleeves | 2 | Either | $$ | 4.7 |
 | 5. Athlos Fitness Knee Sleeves | 2 | Either | $$$ | 4.5 |
 | 6. Li-Ning Knee Brace Compression | 1 | Either | $ | 4.4 |
 | 7. THERAVANA: Knee Brace | 2 | Either | $$$ | 4.4 |
 | 8. Wuju Fitness Arthritis Pain Relief | 2 | Either | $ | 4.4 |
 | 9. Roludom Copper Knee Brace | 1 | Either | $ | 4.4 |
 | 10. Endurance Shield 360 Knee Compression | 2 | Either | $$ | 4.3 |
Buying Information for Knee Compression Sleeves
The best knee compression sleeve brands are made to work well for either men or women since the fit is determined by the measurement around a certain part of your leg. When choosing and buying, make sure you pay attention to the sizing guides provided by the manufacturers of each product and be sure to measure correctly.
Measuring for a knee sleeve can be a little tricky but you should have no trouble if you follow the exact instructions provided for each product. Some will ask you to measure down from the center of the kneecap and then measure that point on your lower leg while others will ask you to measure up from the center of the kneecap and measure the circumference of your thigh.
It will also help to get a precise measurement if you:
- Use a cloth tape measure so it can conform to the shape of your leg for an accurate reading.
- Keep the tape measure snug but not tight while you measure.
If you can’t find your exact measurement on the size chart, it is usually best to choose a slightly smaller size since the sleeve will not serve its purpose if it is loose.
Many of our best compression knee sleeves also allow you to choose a compression level of high, moderate or low. In these cases, your choice should be based on your reasons for buying a knee compression sleeve. If you are recovering from an injury or engaging in high impact or strenuous sports, go for the high compression level. The moderate and low compression levels work best for basic support and pain reduction as well as for travel.
Top 3 Best Knee Compression Sleeve Reviews
1. Ultra Flex Athletics
This Ultra Flex Athletics knee compression sleeve is one of the best available for many reasons as evidenced by the fact that it was selected as the top rated product by consumers. Though it provides nice, snug support once on, it is easy to pull up and it doesn’t slip, slide or roll during activity like some sleeves.
The product comes in sizes small, medium or large with either moderate or high compression levels (the fit is very true so follow the manufacturer’s instructions about measuring carefully). With this sleeve, moderate compression is best for routine activity and typical aches and pains. High compression is best if you’re very active or plan to be walking and/or standing for long periods.
The sleeve has reinforced upper seams to withstand lots of pulling on and off and is made of extremely breathable textured neoprene. Because it is ultra-lightweight, this knee sleeve is breathable and can easily be worn under clothing with no visibility.
Be sure to note that this is a single sleeve so if you want compression for both knees, you’ll need to buy two.
2. Nordic
Nordic is a brand well known in the fitness world but their products, including this knee compression sleeve, work equally well for the non-athlete among us. This particular sleeve is great if you lift weights or participate in CrossFit training but will also serve you well if you simply need support while standing for long periods of time.
You get a pair of sleeves when buying this product and a much wider size choice including X-Small, Small, Medium, Large, X-Large and XX-Large. The reinforced stitching on all part of the sleeves and the 7mm thick neoprene make this product very durable. It holds up well washing after washing but we do recommend you air dry it.
Consumers also found that these sleeves were some of the best at retaining heat so if one of the reasons you’re buying knee compression sleeves is for warmth, then this product is for you. We do not recommend this product for running since its design and thickness interfere some with running movements but it’s great for all other workout activities.
3. Blitzu
The third most highly rate knee compression sleeve is a great choice for non-athletes who want general support or protection from reinjury, but it is known among athletes as one of the best sleeves available for providing stability during strenuous activities like weightlifting or sports involving lots of side to side movements like tennis.
The fabric is extremely high grade and ultra-durable but it also breathes well and is antibacterial and moisture-wicking. It even provides 100% UV/sun protection for the shade-dwellers among us! These sleeves are perfect for jobs that require a lot of standing or lifting and, because they are a little longer than most knee compression sleeves (reaching well above the knee cap and down to the calf), they generate lots of warmth.
Available in four sizes – small, medium, large and extra-large – they are thin enough to be worn under your clothes without detection.