The 6 Best Knee Sleeves for Squats, Weightlifting, Cross Fit, Strength Training, and Bodybuilding
Are you worried about your knees when doing squats or want to improve your performance while lifting?
You’re not alone. Many people are concerned about knee injuries when performing squats or want to bump up to the next level in their weight or reps but don't know the best knee sleeves to use.
You may have used knee braces or other sleeves and were dissatisfied with the benefits. That’s why we put together a list of the 6 best knee sleeves for weightlifting, performing squats, strength training, and bodybuilding.
We have chosen these sleeves based on their quality, durability, and effectiveness regarding performance enhancement, pain relief, increased blood flow, and injury prevention.
How We Chose the Best Knee Sleeves
A top knee sleeve is essential to any weightlifting or squatting routine, especially when you want to avoid knee pain and potential knee injuries, but knowing which ones will work best can be challenging.
With so many on the market, it can be tough to figure out which ones are worth your time and money. Most people buy the first pair they see.
To come up with my list of best knee sleeves, I have read thousands of reviews from reputable marketplaces and done significant research on various websites that sell them.
I have found what I believe to be the best knee sleeves for doing squats, weightlifting, cross fit, strength training, and bodybuilding needs.
My top picks are below:
Rip Toned Knee Sleeves
Why We Love Them
Do you like to feel the burn when you work out but also want to feel safe while doing so?
Then you will want to consider Rip Toned! These knee sleeves work to increase performance and minimize injuries, so you can keep doing what you love.
The 7mm neoprene is perfect for providing warmth, stability, and support to aid with healing an injured knee joint, reducing impact forces, and giving maximum support to maximize performance. Plus, they look great.
Rip Toned uses only top-quality neoprene and high-end stitching for quality you can count on. Rip Toned has been in the market longer than the competitors we are reviewing and is highly respected in the industry.
So if you're looking for a way to take your workouts to the next level, rip into a pair of Rip Toned knee sleeves!
What You Should Know
Regarding knee sleeves, it's important to find ones that offer both compression and support. These do just that, they're one of the best knee compression sleeves on the market, and they're USPA approved and endorsed by world champion powerlifter Kevin Weiss.
A lifetime replacement warranty is also provided, so you can be confident in their quality. This top knee sleeve provides extra stability and patella support and helps to reduce knee pain and swelling.
It's also comfortable to wear and doesn't restrict movement. We believe these are the best knee sleeves for you if you're looking for top-quality, excellent performance, and solid joint support.
Although we are rating these as compression sleeves for weightlifting and crossfit, they are also perfect for basketball, soccer, football and even daily use for those with ongoing knee pain or arthritis.
PROs
- Highly rated and established Company.
- Top-quality materials and workmanship.
- Comfortable while providing excellent support and performance enhancement.
- Excellent customer service.
- Lifetime replacement warranty on all their compression sleeves.
- USPA Approved and endorsed by a World Champion powerlifter.
- Come in a two pack or one sleeve pack.
CONs
- The knee sleeve will stretch a bit while breaking in, so choose your proper size carefully.
Iron Bull Knee Sleeves
Why We Love Them
Looking for a knee compression sleeve that will stay in place during even the most intense workouts?
Look no further than the Iron Bull! This top knee sleeve comes with anti-slip technology and double silicone gel strips that lock it in place, meaning you can focus on your workout and not worry about readjusting your sleeve; the double silicone gel strips get the job done.
Additionally, the Iron Bull knee sleeve helps reduce pressure and swelling, making it a good choice for those with active lifestyles. If you're concerned about a bit of pain in your knee —pick up some Iron Bull knee sleeves and power through your workouts!
What You Should Know
Iron Bull Strength is a company based in Quebec, Canada, that designs and manufactures quality fitness equipment, including knee sleeves.
The company's products are used by professional athletes and bodybuilders worldwide and have been featured in numerous publications.
The Iron Bull Strength Knee Sleeve is a competition-approved product to reduce pressure and swelling during activity. This knee sleeve has also been proven to promote muscle recovery, provide the best knee support, and prevent injury.
The USPA and IPL have approved the use of the Iron Bull Strength Knee Sleeve, making it a safe and practical choice for athletes of all levels.
PROs
- USPA and IPL approved compression sleeves.
- Ideal for weightlifting, CrossFit, and strength training.
- Knee sleeve stays in place while in use.
- Nice double stitching
- Come in a two pack
CONs
- Reviews indicate the Iron Bull knee sleeve doesn't provide as much compression as competitors' compression sleeves.
Gymreapers Knee Sleeves
Why We Love Them
No matter how strong you are, it would help if you had extra support. Your knees always take the brunt of the impact when working out.
Protect your knees and keep your gains coming with Gymreapers knee sleeves.
The company's knee sleeves are made from thick, durable material and are armed with reinforced stitching; their knee sleeves provide firm, comfortable support during even the most intense workouts. They've also designed their knee sleeves in various colors to suit your taste.
With Gymreapers, you'll not only enjoy the best knee support during your workouts, but you'll also look great doing it! So don't wait—pick up a pair of their knee sleeves today and reap the rewards tomorrow.
What You Should Know
Gymreapers is a US-based gym gear and apparel company that trainers and athletes run. The company's knee sleeves are built with breathable material.
The 3-D design provides a contoured fit to keep your joints warm while optimizing comfort. The reinforced stitching for their 7MM knee sleeves makes them a great choice for a compression knee sleeve.
The Gymreaper brand is backed by record-holding powerlifters, IFBB pro athletes, and world-renowned trainers. Gymreapers is committed to providing its customers with high-quality compression knee sleeves and customer service.
They offer a 100% satisfaction guarantee on all of their products for peace of mind as a consumer. If you're looking for high-quality, reliable knee sleeves, take a look at Gymreapers.
PROs
- Record-holding powerlifters back the Gym Reaper knee sleeve.
- Offer a 100% guarantee on their compression sleeves.
- Use thick, durable 7mm neoprene for their knee sleeve.
- 1-year replacement warranty.
- Come in a two pack.
CONs
- They don't offer a lifetime replacement warranty on their knee sleeve as other competitors do.
- Some reviews indicate they may rip prematurely.
Stoic 7mm Knee Sleeves
Why We Love Them
Stoic puts together a very strong contender to the mix. Their 7mm sleeves are very well constructed using high-quality neoprene.
The stitching is also as good as any of the others we review.
Like the others we reviewed, the Stoic knee sleeve provides support, compression, knee protection when heavy lifting, and increased performance.
Stoic is a solid contender.
What You Should Know
The Stoic compression sleeves are high-quality in all respects.
They provide a guarantee on the quality and workmanship of their products.
The main reason we don't rate these higher is their price. The Stoic knee sleeves are priced considerably higher than all the others we reviewed.
Is the extra cost worth it?
We aren't convinced, but we will leave that up to you. Some will want to pay the extra, while others will get what we feel is an equally good product for a lot less by choosing one of our other suggestions.
PROs
- Top-quality materials and construction
- Triple reinforced seam
- Product Warranty
- Slightly longer length
CONs
- Higher cost than most
- Not all athletes appreciate the extra length
Aeolos Knee Sleeves
Why We Love Them
Introducing Aeolos, the knee sleeve that will change how you work out! This sleeve is designed for better knee support, comfort, and efficiency while working out.
The double stitching ensures that it will last through all of your workouts. And, because it's built with active athletes in mind, you can trust it will help you perform your best.
So don't let knee pain hold you back from reaching your goals. Try Aeolos today, and your knees will thank you!
What You Should Know
This is the one for you if you're looking for a knee sleeve that can help improve your performance. These knee sleeves are made of high-quality materials to keep your muscles in place and reduce fatigue.
The improved blood flow and reduced blood lactate will also help minimize muscle oscillation and micro-tearing. You'll be able to perform at your best with this knee sleeve, and it's also comfortable to wear.
Whether you're an athlete or just someone looking for knee sleeves for squats or wants to improve their overall health, this knee sleeve is a great choice.
PROs
- These 7mm knee sleeves come at a great price point.
- This knee compression sleeve uses a breathable material you can use for various activities.
CONs
- Careful when choosing your size of knee compression sleeve.
ProFitness Knee Sleeves
Why We Love Them
Looking to up your fitness game without breaking the bank? Or just tired of a knee sleeve that always slips while you work out?
Look no further than ProFitness – considering the price-conscious shopper, these are the best budget knee sleeves for those looking for quality knee support that is pocket friendly.
A lifetime warranty also backs this knee sleeve. Whether you're into weightlifting, running, or any other activity that puts strain on your knees, ProFitness has you covered with their more than decent knee sleeves.
What You Should Know
It is vital to choose the right size knee sleeve for optimal comfort and performance.
Do not assume you need the largest or smallest knee sleeve because you are a larger or smaller person.
Instead, measure your knee as directed and choose the size that provides a snug, supportive fit.
These knee sleeves are crafted with extra-strong nylon thread and heavy-duty neoprene material.
Whether you are looking to avoid knee injuries or knee pain relief, this knee sleeve can help you stay active and achieve your goals.
PROs
- Great budget knee compression sleeve.
- Bonus carrying bag for your knee sleeves.
- Lifetime warranty on their knee compression sleeve.
CONs
- Keep an eye out for early tearing.
Caring for Your Knee Sleeves
A knee sleeve is a pretty basic product; however, after a few heavy lifting sessions in the gym, they can start to smell more than a little ripe.
A good practice to take on is to turn them inside out after a session to allow them to air out.
Even with the above, eventually, you will want to throw them in the wash with a regular load of laundry. Then let them air dry.
If a regular wash cycle isn't enough, soak them in a hot water-vinegar solution for 10-15 minutes, then run them through another regular wash cycle.
Then leave them out to air dry.
Rinsing or washing your knee sleeves from time to time also helps regain compression that is lost with use over time.
Knee Sleeve Sizing
Although each manufacturer will vary slightly in size and cut below, you will find a fairly typical size guide.
XS 11-12.25 inches (27-31 cm)
SM 12.25-13.5 inches (31-34 cm)
MED 13.5-14.75 inches (34-37 cm)
LG 14.75-16 inches (37-40 cm)
XL 16-17 inches (41-43 cm)
XXL 17-18.5 inches (43-47 cm)
To measure:
- Slightly bend knee (about 30 degrees)
- Locate the center of the patella (kneecap)
- Measure the circumference around the leg 6" below the center of the kneecap.
Knee Sleeve Features to Consider
Proper Fit
For those who want to start wearing knee sleeves, a common question is, "how tight should they be"?
Our answer is... It depends.
Sorry for that :(
It does depend, though.
What will you be using them for?
How long will you be wearing them?
Do you want them to improve athletic performance, keep your knees warm if you're recovering from an injury, provide pain relief, or for some extra support?
Most weightlifters who use a knee sleeve will usually wear it during their set and then slide it down when resting.
As a result, they don't wear it for long periods, so that they can use a much tighter sleeve.
On the other hand, runners make their knee sleeves work much longer, so they will opt for a looser sleeve.
Neoprene Material and Thickness
Most knee compression sleeves are made from neoprene, which is a stretchy, spongey type of material.
Neoprene comes in different thicknesses. For example, the best knee sleeve will typically come in a 7mm neoprene.
Whereas a typical elbow sleeve will come in a 5 mm neoprene.
The thicker knee sleeves provide extra support and stability over thinner ones.
Not all neoprene is equal. We have found some neoprene to be much stiffer; some offer better compression, and some retain their elasticity longer.
Be sure to read reviews and physically hold and feel a sleeve, if possible, before purchasing to get a sense of its quality
Knee Sleeve Warranty
Since you want a knee sleeve for injury prevention, pain relief, and performance, they must stand up to the test of time and the abuse you will put them through.
Therefore, the best knee sleeve is the one that continues to work as intended.
No matter how good the neoprene is, it will only last so long that a solid warranty becomes critical.
You can save a few bucks with budget knee sleeves, but those often don't have a good warranty.
We recommend looking for a company offering a lifetime warranty. Once you find such a company, read some reviews to ensure they honor their warranty.
Types of Knee Sleeves
Neoprene Sleeves
These are the most typical type of knee sleeves. They come in 3mm, 5mm and 7mm.
The thicker the "mm," the more compression and support are provided. However, the thicker the sleeve, the less flexibility, and movement is allowed.
For heavy lifting or heavy squats, use a thicker sleeve. When considering injury prevention, pain relief, or knee problems, it mostly depends on the type of activity and personal preference.
Nylon, Spandex or Lycra Sleeves
These thinner sleeves work well for running, mild pain or slight injury recovery.
They do not provide a lot of support, stability or performance enhancement.
Copper-Infused Sleeves
These reportedly aid with joint healing and reduce odor or bacteria growth.
Knee Sleeve FAQs
People searching for the best knee sleeves often have questions but don't know who to ask.
Finding good information about wearing a compression sleeve can be hard, especially if you're new to using them.
We've answered the most frequently asked questions about knee sleeves so that you can decide whether or not they're suitable for you.
How tight should knee sleeves be for squats?
It depends on the person. Some people prefer them to be tight, and some people prefer them to be a little loose.
Generally speaking, the tighter the sleeve is, the more support it will provide.
However, if they are too tight, they can restrict blood flow and make it challenging to perform squats.
So it's important to find a happy medium between tight and loose that works for you.
Do knee sleeves help squat max?
The best knee sleeves can help if you struggle with getting depth on your squats or have pain in your knees.
Knee sleeves can provide compression and warmth, which may help you to achieve a deeper squat.
How much difference do knee sleeves add to a squat?
There is no definitive answer to this question because it depends on several factors, such as the type of knee sleeve, the thickness, and the individual's squat form.
Most people report knee sleeves for weightlifting will add support and stability to squats.
Knee sleeves can be helpful for people just starting out with squats because they provide a little extra support and stabilization.
They can also benefit people who have knee issues or are trying to increase their weightlifting performance.
However, it's important to note that you don't use knee sleeves as a substitute for proper form and technique.
What is the difference between a knee brace and knee sleeves?
The main difference between a knee brace and a knee sleeve is that a knee brace is much more supportive and can be used to protect against injuries.
In contrast, a knee sleeve is intended to provide warmth and compression with minimal protection from injuries.
A knee brace is typically made from stiff materials such as plastic or metal, while a knee sleeve is usually made from a stretchy fabric.
Knee braces are often recommended for people who have injured their knees or suffer from conditions such as arthritis that can cause pain and inflammation.
A compression sleeve, on the other hand, are popular among athletes because they can help reduce muscle fatigue and joint pain.
How do I choose the best knee sleeves?
When choosing a knee sleeve, you'll want to consider the sleeve's compression level.
The amount of compression will depend on the severity of your injury and on how much support you need.
You'll also want to consider the size and fit of the knee sleeve.
When wearing knee sleeves, make sure to choose a size that is comfortable and that provides a snug fit.
Finally, you'll want to consider the material of the knee sleeve.
Some compression sleeves are made from neoprene, which offers a lot of compression and support.
Other knee sleeves are designed using cotton or other materials, which may be less compressive but more comfortable.
Should I size up or down for my knee sleeve?
There is no definitive answer, as everyone's anatomy is different.
However, a good general rule of thumb to enjoy the best knee sleeves is to size up if you have larger thighs and to size down if you have smaller thighs.
As always, it's best to consult with an expert at your local sporting goods store or online merchant to get a more personalized recommendation.
Should you always train with knee sleeves?
There is no one-size-fits-all answer when it comes to wearing a knee sleeve.
The decision of whether to wear knee sleeves while training or not ultimately depends on the individual and the specific exercise being performed.
That said, there are a few things to consider when deciding whether to wear knee sleeves while training.
First, if you have healthy knees, then consider knee sleeves for increasing performance or to help prevent a knee injury.
If you have any pre-existing knee pain or issues with your knees, it's best to speak with a doctor before wearing a knee sleeve.
Second, choosing the best knee sleeves for your needs is crucial.
There are three main types of knee sleeves: compression sleeves, stabilization sleeves, and support sleeves.
Is it better for my knee joint to do squats without knee sleeves?
There is no definitive answer to this question. However, knee sleeves can help you squat more weight because they provide compression and support.
However, if you don't have knee pain and don't mind the extra weight, you may find squats without a knee sleeve more comfortable.
Do tight knee sleeves increase your squat?
There is some evidence that wearing tight knee sleeves while doing squats can increase the weight the athlete can lift.
A study published in the Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research found that when participants wore tight knee sleeves while squatting, they could lift significantly more weight than when they did not wear a knee sleeve.
The researchers suggest that the increased support and compression of the tight knee sleeves may have helped the participants lift more weight.
However, it's important to note that not everyone may experience the same benefits from wearing tight knee sleeves.
Some people may find that they help them squat more weight, while others may find that they hinder their performance.
As with any training equipment, it depends on the individual involved.
What is the impact of knee compression sleeves on my knee joints?
There is evidence that wearing knee compression sleeves may help improve knee function, reduce pain in people with osteoarthritis, and help with injury prevention.
Additionally, it's important to note that the lifter should not use knee compression sleeves as a substitute for other physical therapy prescribed by a healthcare professional for osteoarthritis.
Best Knee Sleeves For You
Now that we have given you quality information on the best knee sleeves for weightlifting, squats, and CrossFit routines, you can rest easy knowing you're prepared to tackle whatever comes your way.
In addition, you can do more heavy lifting and avoid knee injuries with the right knee sleeve.
Make sure to thoroughly read our article and find the best quality knee sleeve for you! When you've decided on "your winner," tap the button to check the price of the best knee sleeves to suit your needs.
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