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12 Best Knee Braces  [Tested and Reviewed]

12 Best Knee Braces [Tested and Reviewed]

If you suffer from knee pain, a brace that supports the muscles and joints can help you find relief. Companies like ACE, Mueller, and others sell knee braces in various shapes and sizes, and it can be difficult to choose the right one.

We've compared 12 bestselling knee braces available online and tested them to recommend the best one for you.


We tested each product for the following:

  • How well does it support the muscles around the knee?
  • How well does it support the knee joint itself?
  • Is it easy to use?
  • Is it easy to put on and take off?
  • Does it irritate the skin?
  • Does it seem like it will last?

Which product ended up being the best of the best? We'll also tell you how to pick the best knee brace in our buying guide, so read on for our tips.

Last updated 08/30/2023
Dr. Jeanette De Witt
Expert
Doctor of Physical Therapy
Dr. Jeanette De Witt

Dr. Jeanette De Witt owns and operates The Wellness Track, LLC. She is a Doctor of Physical Therapy specializing in Corrective Exercise, Medical Fitness, and Nutrition Education. She is one of ten clinicians in the USA certified in the Total Motion Release technique for reducing pain, restoring symmetry, and improving alignment. Dr. De Witt is credentialed in Exercise Is Medicine with the American College of Sports Medicine. She received her Personal Training Certification, Fitness Nutrition Specialization, and Corrective Exercise Specialization with the National Academy of Sports Medicine.

Dr. Jeanette De Witt's Profile
…Continue reading
Ayuka Yokoyama
Guide
Head of Personal Care Products at mybest
Ayuka Yokoyama

As head of personal care products, Ayuka is responsible for a wide range of items, including massagers, oral care products, and more. Since joining the company, Ayuka has clarified that it is imperative that she "delivers trustworthy information about products that affect the body" and has since gone on to verify 200 products and counting.

Ayuka Yokoyama's Profile
…Continue reading

How We Tested the Products

Scroll to testing method
We gathered the 12 bestselling Knee Braces and put them through rigorous testing.
  1. Muscle Support

    1
    Muscle Support

    If you feel a dull pain in your knees while going about your day, you should choose a product that supports the muscles around the knee.In our test, we wore each brace and performed actions including walking, going up and down stairs, and sitting in and getting up from a chair. We then evaluated how well the muscles in the knee were supported.

  2. Knee Joint Support

    2
    Knee Joint Support

    If your knee feels like it's about to buckle with each step, it's best to choose a brace that secures the kneecap and provides stability.Again, we evaluated how well the knee joint was supported while walking, going up and down stairs, and sitting in and getting up from a chair.

  3. Ease of Use

    3
    Ease of Use

    If the brace makes it difficult to move, it's hard to keep wearing it regardless of how well it supports the knee.We had six testers wear each brace and evaluate them on the following three points.Whether there is any discomfort when bending and stretching the kneeWhether or not it fits wellWhether or not it feels stuffy

  4. Putting It On and Taking It Off

    4
    Putting It On and Taking It Off

    If you wear it daily, a brace that is easy to put on and take off would be ideal.We had six testers evaluate the braces on how easy they were to get on and how smoothly they could be removed.

  5. Skin-Friendliness

    5
    Skin-Friendliness

    Knee braces come in contact with your skin all day, so it's essential to consider how they feel on the skin.We had six testers wear each brace and evaluate whether they felt comfortable in this regard.

  6. Construction

    6
    Construction

    It’s easier to take care of the brace if it’s machine washable. However, reviews online mention products falling apart in the washing machine.We put each product through 30 laundry cycles and checked for material deterioration. Even if it’s supposed to be washed by hand, a brace is easier to use if you can throw it in the laundry, so we gave higher scores for those.We evaluated products highly if they were still in good shape, without frayed threads or stretched-out fabric.

All product tests
were conducted in-house at mybest

Company Facility
The expert oversees the Buying Guide only, and does not determine the products and services featured.The mybest team independently conducts its own tests to rank products.
We do not guarantee any of the results or features explained in our buying guide. Please reference each product's official description when making your purchase.

Table of Contents

What Causes Knee Pain?

If you want to manage your knee pain successfully, it's essential to determine what's causing it in the first place.

The Four Main Causes Are Weight Gain, Aging, Past Injuries, and Overuse

The Four Main Causes Are Weight Gain, Aging, Past Injuries, and Overuse

Knee pain is usually caused by weight gain, aging, past injuries, or overuse. First, your body weight is constantly applied to your knees, so the joints and muscles bear a heavier burden than other areas of the body. Weight gain can further increase this burden, and when combined with degenerative changes in the joints as you age, this leads to more frequent knee pain.


If you have injured your knee in the past, the muscles become weaker, and you might find it difficult to walk. In addition, you may feel knee pain if you often bend and extend your knees at work or overuse them while exercising, so it’s essential to be careful.


Continuously putting pressure on your legs causes the muscles around the knee to stiffen up, leading to pain and difficulty moving the knee. In addition, the bones in the joint may rub against each other, which can also cause pain. If you start to feel a dull ache in your knees, it’s essential to rest and not do too much.

Dr. Jeanette De Witt
Doctor of Physical Therapy
Dr. Jeanette De Witt

If your knee hurts even while resting or is hot, red, or swollen, you should see a doctor as soon as possible and not try to diagnose it yourself.

How Does a Knee Brace Help?

The main benefit of using a knee brace is added support, but they can also help in other ways.

It Reduces Pain and Supports the Knee to Make Physical Activity Easier

It Reduces Pain and Supports the Knee to Make Physical Activity Easier

Knee braces cannot eliminate knee pain, but they can support the muscles, stabilize the joint, and keep it warm. Stabilizing the knee and surrounding muscles can reduce knee pain.


A brace is ideal for people who have trouble moving their legs forward while walking, lifting their legs, or who feel unsteady when taking steps. Additionally, even a single layer of fabric can help keep the joint warm, so a brace is recommended for those worried about the effects of cold, such as in air-conditioned spaces or in the winter.

Dr. Jeanette De Witt
Doctor of Physical Therapy
Dr. Jeanette De Witt

If knee pain prevents you from being active, it can cause your overall strength to diminish. Utilizing a knee brace can help alleviate anxiety related to physical activity.

How to Choose a Knee Brace - Buying Guide

Here are the points to keep in mind when choosing the best knee brace.
1

For an Everyday Brace, Find One That's Comfortable and Supportive

For an Everyday Brace, Find One That's Comfortable and Supportive

There are four types of knee braces: knee sleeves with compression, wrap-around braces, knee straps, and hinged braces. For this test, we worked with the two that can be used every day; knee sleeves with compression and wrap-around braces. We will explain these two types in further detail below.

Dr. Jeanette De Witt
Doctor of Physical Therapy
Dr. Jeanette De Witt

Knee straps, which weren’t covered in this test, apply pinpoint pressure to the bottom of the knee and are often worn by athletes who frequently jump, such as basketball and volleyball players. As for hinged braces, they are used after a knee ligament injury before surgery to prevent further damage or after surgery to help stabilize the knee.

A Sleeve Brace That Extends to the Thigh Is Good for Mild Pain

A Sleeve Brace That Extends to the Thigh Is Good for Mild Pain

We recommend sleeve knee braces that cover up to the thigh for those times when you feel slight pain and want a little extra support. We found that this type of brace can properly compress and support the muscles in the thigh when moving the leg. Additionally, sleeve braces do not restrict the range of motion of the knee and allow easier bending compared to types with straps.


Our testers, who actually used the products, reported that they did not feel discomfort around the back of the knee. Sleeve braces that extend to the thigh are great for everyday use, as they offer suitable compression of the muscles around the knee.

Braces With Soft Stabilizers for Knee Pain While Walking

Braces With Soft Stabilizers for Knee Pain While Walking

Knee braces with side stabilizers are great for people who struggle to walk and have dull knee pain. The stabilizers make it easier to move your leg forward, so they are perfect for those who experience difficulty walking. Furthermore, they provide adequate resistance when bending and stretching the knee.


When choosing one of these braces, look for one with soft stabilizers. Hard stabilizers will make it difficult to bend your knee and limit your range of motion, so avoiding them is best.

Avoid Tight Straps That Make Movement Difficult

Avoid Tight Straps That Make Movement Difficult

Most strap braces performed poorly in our muscle and joint support tests, as they do not extend up to the thigh and cannot support those muscles. And if they did perform well, putting them on was still time-consuming, and they restricted the wearer’s range of motion, negatively impacting their overall evaluation.


In addition to providing good support, it’s also vital that wearing a brace is a stress-free experience. For this reason, it’s better to avoid braces with straps when looking for a product you will use daily.

2

Check These Factors That Influence Ease of Use

Even if a brace helps with your knee pain, if it's hard to put on and wear, you might get too frustrated to use it as often as you'd like.

Stretchy Knee Braces Facilitate Movement and Are Easy to Put On

Stretchy Knee Braces Facilitate Movement and Are Easy to Put On

Through our tests, we found that braces made from elastic materials did not restrict motion and were comfortable to wear. Our testers were impressed by the ability to bend and extend the knee and move around easily. Additionally, the ability to stretch the opening without it getting stuck made them easy to put on and take off, which was another positive aspect.


On the other hand, stiff fabrics made it difficult to bend the knee and harder to move. Our testers had trouble bending their knees and climbing stairs in particular.


Knee braces are usually worn all day, so it’s better to choose one with high elasticity that allows easy movement. You cannot judge stretchiness based solely on appearance, so check the elasticity category in our ranking.

3

Make Sure to Choose the Right Size

Manufacturers have size charts and measurement tips for their knee braces, so check those before buying since they're not necessarily the same for every product.

Being Too Big or Too Small Both Cause Problems

Being Too Big or Too Small Both Cause Problems

Choosing a product that is neither too big nor too small is critical to ensure the brace will be effective. A brace that is too small can apply too much pressure, leading to poor blood circulation and restricted motion and increasing the burden on the knees.


On the other hand, a brace that is too big cannot provide adequate support. Thus, confirming the proper size before making your purchase is essential.


Most of the products we tested asked for measurement around the circumference of the thigh, but some products used the circumference under the knee. Check the size chart on the product page before purchasing a brace.

4

We Recommend Machine-Washable Braces

Avoid a smelly, sweaty knee brace with something easy to wash.

Beware of Hook-and-Loop Fasteners, Which Quickly Wear Out

Beware of Hook-and-Loop Fasteners, Which Quickly Wear Out

If you can throw your knee brace in the washing machine, even if the manufacturer recommends hand washing, it will be easy to maintain. As such, we put each product through 30 laundry cycles and checked for deterioration. As a result, we found that products without hook-and-loop (Velcro) fasteners were mostly unchanged cosmetically and remained in good shape. Being able to wash them with your other laundry is very convenient.


On the other hand, braces with hook-and-loop fasteners looked very shabby and worn out afterward. While there was no massive drop-off in ease of use, we worry if they will hold up over long-term use. If you don’t want to replace the brace regularly, please look at those without hook-and-loop fasteners.

Was the Buying Guide helpful?
We do not guarantee any of the results or features explained in our buying guide. Please reference each product's official description when making your purchase.

12 Best Knee Braces Ranking

Here are the best Knee Braces we found after testing them. We ranked them after weighting each of our testing specs.
Recommended
Price Performance
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For walking support
Sturdy construction
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mybest Score
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Price
Key features
Ranking spec
Details
Muscle support
Knee joint support
Ease of use
Wearability
Comfort
Construction
Length
Knee circumference
Type
Material
Adjustable
Machine washable
Elasticity
With support tape or wrap
With mesh
Side stabilizers
Side stabilizer type
1

Physix Gear

Knee Support Brace

Physix Gear Knee Support Brace 1
4.76

$18.46

Mid

mybest's Top Choice! Reduces Strain on Muscles and Joints for Those With Unstable Knees

5.00
5.00
4.43
4.47
4.23
4.65

11 in.

19.5-22 in.

Sleeve

Nylon, Latex

(Hand Wash Recommended)

unknown

1

Incrediwear

Knee Sleeves

Incrediwear Knee Sleeves 1
4.76

$54.99

High

An Easy-to-Use, Snug-Fitting Brace for People With Trouble Walking

5.00
5.00
4.45
4.35
4.35
4.65

11.8 in.

14-16 in.

Sleeve

Polyester, Nylon, Cotton, Spandex

Soft

3

MODVEL

Knee Compression Sleeve

MODVEL Knee Compression Sleeve 1
4.67

$19.95

Mid

Thick, Warm Knee Support to Promote Movement

5.00
5.00
4.16
4.38
3.99
4.65

9.8 in.

18.1-20.4 in.

Sleeve

Spandex,Nylon,Latex,Fiber

unknown

4

Powerlix

Knee Compression Sleeve

Powerlix	 Knee Compression Sleeve 1
4.64

$19.64

Mid

Easy to Put On and Take Off, and Doesn't Impede Movement

4.65
5.00
4.33
4.47
4.29
5.00

11.4 in.

16.6-19.5 in.

Sleeve

Nylon, Spandex

N/A

5

CAMBIVO

Knee Brace

CAMBIVO Knee Brace 1
4.58

$16.99

Mid

Firm Support for Knee Movement and Feels Great on the Skin

5.00
5.00
3.76
4.44
4.29
4.65

0

19.5-22 in.

Sleeve

Mylon, Latex, Spandex

N/A

6

CAMBIVO

2 Pack Knee Compression Sleeve

CAMBIVO 2 Pack Knee Compression Sleeve 1
4.54

$7.99

Low

Easy to Put On and Gentle on Skin

4.65
4.65
4.30
4.47
4.41
4.65

10.2 in.

19.5-22 in.

Sleeve

Nylon, Latex, Spandex

unknown

N/A

6

DOUFURT

Knee Brace with Side Stabilizers

DOUFURT Knee Brace with Side Stabilizers 1
4.54

$20.98

Mid

Difficult to Wear and Restricts Movement, but Supports the Knee Well

5.00
5.00
4.14
3.63
4.05
4.29

9 in.

20-24 in.

Straps

Neoprene, Nylon, Polyester, Spandex

unknown

Soft

8

NEENCA

Professional Knee Brace, Compression Knee Sleeve

NEENCA	 Professional Knee Brace, Compression Knee Sleeve 1
4.19

$21.59

Mid

Hard Stabilizers Are a Negative, but It Holds Up Well in the Laundry

3.93
4.29
4.32
4.38
4.41
4.65

12.6 in.

15.4-17.7 in.

Sleeve

Nylon,Polyester,Spandex

unknown

Hard

9

Bodyprox

Knee Brace with Side Stabilizers

Bodyprox Knee Brace with Side Stabilizers 1
4.16

$14.99

Low Mid

Feels Good On the Skin, but Limits Movement

3.93
5.00
4.08
3.81
4.29
3.57

8.7 in.

14-21.5 in.

Sleeve

SBR, Nylon, Spandex, Velcro, Metal springs

unknown

unknown

unknown

Soft

10

ACE

Adjustable Knee Brace

ACE Adjustable Knee Brace 1
3.66

$25.09

High Mid

Breaks Down in the Washer and Doesn’t Feel Supportive

3.22
3.93
4.22
4.08
3.87
3.57

9.8 in.

11-22 in.

Straps

Neoprene blend, Nylon, Spandex, Polyester

unknown

Soft

If you don't see the product you're looking for, you can request that it be listed.
No.1
Top Choice Knee Braces
No.1 in Muscle support
No.1 in Knee joint support
No.1 in Wearability

Physix GearKnee Support Brace

mybest Score
4.76
Muscle support
5.00
Knee joint support
5.00
Ease of use
4.43
Wearability
4.47
Comfort
4.23
Construction
4.65
View on Amazon
Knee Support Brace 1
Lowest price
$18.46
Mid
Lowest price
$18.46
Mid
TypeSleeve
Side stabilizers
Side stabilizer type
unknown

mybest's Top Choice! Reduces Strain on Muscles and Joints for Those With Unstable Knees

The Physix Gear knee support brace is a sleeve-type brace. It spans from the thigh to the bottom of the knee, and its slim shape helps it fit snugly to the leg. This brace was highly evaluated for muscle support, extending from the bottom of the knee to the thigh and providing ample compression. In addition, we liked that it supported the joint during activities that put a lot of strain on the knees.


Movement was not impaired while walking or climbing stairs. The brace is also highly elastic, making it easy to put on and remove. Even after 30 laundry cycles, we did not see any noticeable changes to appearance, such as frayed threads or stretching, making this product suitable for long-term use.


This knee brace provides support across a wide area around the knee and is comfortable to wear. We strongly recommend picking one up to reduce strain on your knees.

Length11 in.
Knee circumference19.5-22 in.
MaterialNylon, Latex
Adjustable
Machine washable(Hand Wash Recommended)
Elasticity
With support tape or wrap
With mesh
View all
Was this Ranking helpful?
No.1
Top Choice Knee Braces
No.1 in Muscle support
No.1 in Knee joint support
No.1 in Ease of use

IncrediwearKnee Sleeves

mybest Score
4.76
Muscle support
5.00
Knee joint support
5.00
Ease of use
4.45
Wearability
4.35
Comfort
4.35
Construction
4.65
Lowest price
$54.99
High
TypeSleeve
Side stabilizers
Side stabilizer type
Soft

An Easy-to-Use, Snug-Fitting Brace for People With Trouble Walking

Incrediwear’s knee sleeves are made with soft side stabilizers inside. They extend up to the thigh and adequately compress the muscles. In addition, they earned points from us for the side stabilizers, which helped when walking, sitting, and climbing stairs. They also feel good on the skin and don’t cause discomfort when worn.


Our testers praised them for allowing comfortable movement and snug fit without feeling stuffy. They are as easy to put on and remove as socks and are easy to align to any kneecap position, which varies from person to person, making them very convenient.


Regarding construction, they held up well after 30 laundry cycles and did not show signs of deterioration or loosening of the bands. It seems like this product can be used for a long time without being replaced. The side stabilizers recoil when the knee is unbent, making it easy to move your leg forward. This makes these sleeves an attractive option for those who have trouble walking.

Length11.8 in.
Knee circumference14-16 in.
MaterialPolyester, Nylon, Cotton, Spandex
Adjustable
Machine washable
Elasticity
With support tape or wrap
With mesh
View all
No.3
No.1 in Muscle support
No.1 in Knee joint support

MODVELKnee Compression Sleeve

mybest Score
4.67
Muscle support
5.00
Knee joint support
5.00
Ease of use
4.16
Wearability
4.38
Comfort
3.99
Construction
4.65
Lowest price
$19.95
Mid
TypeSleeve
Side stabilizers
Side stabilizer type
unknown

Thick, Warm Knee Support to Promote Movement

Modvel knee compression sleeves come in a set of two, so we recommend them to people who want a brace for both knees. We found that they provided good compression and facilitated activity. Additionally, they supported the knee without locking the kneecap when taking a step.


They are made from a thick material, and our testers felt stuffy after wearing them. However, they praised the sleeves for not impeding movement. In addition, they can be slipped on and off like a sock.


As for the construction, the trim got a little fuzzy during our testing, but we did not see much deterioration, so we think they will hold up for a long time. They compress the area around the knee adequately and keep it warm. This product would be great for people concerned about the effects of cold temperatures on their knees.

Length9.8 in.
Knee circumference18.1-20.4 in.
MaterialSpandex,Nylon,Latex,Fiber
Adjustable
Machine washable
Elasticity
With support tape or wrap
With mesh
View all
No.4
No.1 in Knee joint support
No.1 in Construction
No.1 in Wearability

Powerlix Knee Compression Sleeve

mybest Score
4.64
Muscle support
4.65
Knee joint support
5.00
Ease of use
4.33
Wearability
4.47
Comfort
4.29
Construction
5.00
Lowest price
$19.64
Mid
TypeSleeve
Side stabilizers
Side stabilizer type
N/A

Easy to Put On and Take Off, and Doesn't Impede Movement

The Powerlix knee compression sleeve comes in small to extra-extra-large sizes, so finding the perfect size shouldn’t be a problem. We thought the sleeve adequately compressed the muscles and supported movement. They stabilized the joint when walking or descending stairs, creating a good impression in our test for muscle support.


Despite their thick material, they allow the knee to bend and extend smoothly and don’t cause a stuffy feeling. In addition, our testers found they were easy to put on and take off and did not feel prickly against the skin, so they were evaluated highly.


Aside from a few frayed strands, we didn’t notice drastic deterioration in their appearance after washing. These sleeves are easy to use and have good construction, so we recommend considering them if you want a brace that will last a long time.

Length11.4 in.
Knee circumference16.6-19.5 in.
MaterialNylon, Spandex
Adjustable
Machine washable
Elasticity
With support tape or wrap
With mesh
View all
No.5
No.1 in Muscle support
No.1 in Knee joint support

CAMBIVOKnee Brace

mybest Score
4.58
Muscle support
5.00
Knee joint support
5.00
Ease of use
3.76
Wearability
4.44
Comfort
4.29
Construction
4.65
Lowest price
$16.99
Mid
TypeSleeve
Side stabilizers
Side stabilizer type
N/A

Firm Support for Knee Movement and Feels Great on the Skin

Cambivo CNS1002 knee braces come in a set of two. They are designed with an anti-slip section on the thigh, helping them stay secure. They did well in the muscle support test, as they adequately compressed the thigh muscles and supported actions such as walking and climbing stairs. They received further praise for stabilizing the joints during a variety of activities.


Our testers were impressed by how easy they were to put on and take off and how they felt on the skin. However, they received negative points in ease of use due to their tube shape, which doesn’t fit all legs equally well. The size is based on the thigh measurement, but buying one size smaller could also work. After washing, we observed fraying in some areas, but they remained in good shape overall. We think these can be used for a long time.

Length0
Knee circumference19.5-22 in.
MaterialMylon, Latex, Spandex
Adjustable
Machine washable
Elasticity
With support tape or wrap
With mesh
View all
No.6
No.1 in Wearability
No.1 in Comfort

CAMBIVO2 Pack Knee Compression Sleeve

mybest Score
4.54
Muscle support
4.65
Knee joint support
4.65
Ease of use
4.30
Wearability
4.47
Comfort
4.41
Construction
4.65
Lowest price
$7.99
Low
TypeSleeve
Side stabilizers
unknown
Side stabilizer type
N/A

Easy to Put On and Gentle on Skin

The Cambivo model number CNS7002 knee braces are sleeve-type knee braces sold as a pair. According to our testers, they supported the knee joints when sitting in and standing up from a chair. However, we felt buckling in the knees when walking and using stairs.


They may fit loosely below the knee, but the thigh section stays put, making it difficult for them to slip down. They are easy to slide on and off, feel smooth on the skin, and are comfortable to wear for a long time. We noticed some frayed threads on the surface after we washed them, but there was no significant deterioration in the bands, and the feeling on the skin remained unchanged.

Length10.2 in.
Knee circumference19.5-22 in.
MaterialNylon, Latex, Spandex
Adjustable
Machine washable
Elasticity
With support tape or wrap
With mesh
View all
No.6
No.1 in Muscle support
No.1 in Knee joint support

DOUFURTKnee Brace with Side Stabilizers

mybest Score
4.54
Muscle support
5.00
Knee joint support
5.00
Ease of use
4.14
Wearability
3.63
Comfort
4.05
Construction
4.29
Lowest price
$20.98
Mid
TypeStraps
Side stabilizers
unknown
Side stabilizer type
Soft

Difficult to Wear and Restricts Movement, but Supports the Knee Well

The Doufurt knee brace with side stabilizers has hook-and-loop fasteners that make it adjustable, which is one attractive point. The adjustable fasteners helped secure and stabilize the muscles. We found that the brace supported the joint when walking, sitting, and using stairs.


However, our testers mentioned that it locked the knee and limited motion. Furthermore, there are many belts, making it time-consuming and troublesome to put on and take off. Despite being made of a tough material, it’s gentle on the skin and doesn’t cause much friction. After washing, the brace held up well, but the hook-and-loop fasteners had many loose strands. Close the fastener after using it rather than leaving it as-is.

Length9 in.
Knee circumference20-24 in.
MaterialNeoprene, Nylon, Polyester, Spandex
Adjustable
Machine washable
Elasticity
With support tape or wrap
With mesh
View all
No.8
No.1 in Comfort

NEENCA Professional Knee Brace, Compression Knee Sleeve

mybest Score
4.19
Muscle support
3.93
Knee joint support
4.29
Ease of use
4.32
Wearability
4.38
Comfort
4.41
Construction
4.65
Lowest price
$21.59
Mid
TypeSleeve
Side stabilizers
unknown
Side stabilizer type
Hard

Hard Stabilizers Are a Negative, but It Holds Up Well in the Laundry

The Neenca Professional knee brace is a sleeve-type product. It is unique for its gel pad over the kneecap and side supporters. We found it applied pressure to the knee when climbing stairs and caused pain, so it did not perform well in our muscle support test. However, the supporters helped stabilize the knee by preventing it from shifting to the left or right, so it was received well in that regard.


It was also evaluated well in terms of ease of use, despite the hard supporters making it a bit difficult to move, as it was possible to perform typical actions like bending the knee and sitting smoothly. The brace was a little uncomfortable to take off, but there weren’t many steps, which was a plus.


The brace was gentle on the skin, so it didn’t cause any damage. It didn’t show any fraying or deformation after 30 laundry cycles, so it seems suitable for long-term use.

Length12.6 in.
Knee circumference15.4-17.7 in.
MaterialNylon,Polyester,Spandex
Adjustable
Machine washable
Elasticity
With support tape or wrap
With mesh
View all
No.9
No.1 in Knee joint support

BodyproxKnee Brace with Side Stabilizers

mybest Score
4.16
Muscle support
3.93
Knee joint support
5.00
Ease of use
4.08
Wearability
3.81
Comfort
4.29
Construction
3.57
Lowest price
$14.99
Low Mid
TypeSleeve
Side stabilizers
Side stabilizer type
Soft

Feels Good On the Skin, but Limits Movement

The Bodyprox knee brace with straps features a kneecap pad and side stabilizers. This brace did not perform well in our muscle support test, as motion caused strain on the knee, and the thigh muscles were not adequately supported. On the other hand, the tape around the knee created a sense of stability when bending.


Our testers stated that the lack of elasticity made bending the knee hard and everyday tasks more difficult than usual. In addition, they mentioned that it is troublesome and time-consuming to put on and take off due to the many fasteners.


And while the material held up well, the Velcro and belts became shabby and gave it a worn-out appearance, so this product may need to be replaced often. On the other hand, the material felt good on the skin and didn’t cause discomfort, so it received positive points for that.

Length8.7 in.
Knee circumference14-21.5 in.
MaterialSBR, Nylon, Spandex, Velcro, Metal springs
Adjustable
Machine washableunknown
Elasticity
With support tape or wrapunknown
With meshunknown
View all
No.10

ACEAdjustable Knee Brace

mybest Score
3.66
Muscle support
3.22
Knee joint support
3.93
Ease of use
4.22
Wearability
4.08
Comfort
3.87
Construction
3.57
Lowest price
$25.09
High Mid
TypeStraps
Side stabilizers
unknown
Side stabilizer type
Soft

Breaks Down in the Washer and Doesn’t Feel Supportive

The ACE adjustable knee brace has straps and is unique for the breathable material that prevents it from feeling stuffy when worn. This product received a low evaluation in the muscle support test, though, as it could not compress the muscles in the thigh. In addition, we didn't feel it supported us enough when climbing and descending stairs, which caused stress on the knees and led to unnatural movements.


The brace restricts flexibility and keeps the knee from its full range of motion, which we felt was a negative point. Furthermore, while it's not difficult to put on, there are three straps, so it takes time. Our testers said it didn't irritate the skin, but it feels prickly when a strap slides off. Thus, it's essential to put it on carefully. The product also looked very worn out after washing, so it does not seem suited for extended use.

Length9.8 in.
Knee circumference11-22 in.
MaterialNeoprene blend, Nylon, Spandex, Polyester
Adjustable
Machine washable
Elasticity
With support tape or wrap
With mesh
View all
No.11

Shock DoctorKnee Brace Compression

mybest Score
3.34
Muscle support
3.00
Knee joint support
3.00
Ease of use
4.31
Wearability
4.26
Comfort
4.35
Construction
4.65
Lowest price
$21.99
Mid
TypeSleeve
Side stabilizers
unknown
Side stabilizer type
N/A

Lacks Elasticity, Impedes Movement, and Is Difficult to Wear

The Shock Doctor knee brace is a sleeve-type product. Unlike other braces we tested, the size is based on the bottom of the knee, so be sure to check before buying. In the muscle support test, we found a lot of strain placed on the knee in every activity, so it was evaluated poorly. We also didn’t feel much muscle compression or joint stabilization, so we can’t recommend this product for those with knee pain.


Our testers also expressed feeling awkward when bending their knee. Compared to other sleeve-type products, this brace lacks elasticity, so it’s hard to put on and remove. On the other hand, it was praised for the material, which felt smooth and gentle on the skin. Additionally, it was like new after 30 cycles in the washing machine, without noticeable fraying or deformation.
Length11 in.
Knee circumference13.75-14.75 in.
MaterialNeoprene, Silicone, Spandex
Adjustable
Machine washable
Elasticity
With support tape or wrap
With mesh
View all
No.12

MuellerAdjustable Knee Brace

mybest Score
3.27
Muscle support
3.00
Knee joint support
3.00
Ease of use
3.86
Wearability
3.90
Comfort
4.11
Construction
4.29
Lowest price
$17.26
Mid
TypeStraps
Side stabilizers
unknown
Side stabilizer type
N/A

So Firm It Can Get Painful, and It Takes a While to Put On and Remove

The Mueller adjustable knee brace is a sleeve that only comes in one size, so be sure it will fit your leg before purchasing. We thought it applied too much compression when walking and using stairs, causing even more pain. Furthermore, after using it for a while, it caused uncomfortable pain in the joint, so we can’t recommend this for people with knee pain.


In the ease of use test, our testers complained that the straps crowded behind the knee, making moving difficult. There are also many steps to putting on and taking off the brace, making it time-consuming and frustrating when you’re in a rush.


On the other hand, the material is smooth and doesn’t irritate the skin, so it was reviewed highly for that. Its construction was also evaluated highly, as it mostly held up well. We used a washing machine to see what happened for the test, but note that the manufacturer recommends washing it by hand.

Length9.4 in.
Knee circumference12-21 in.
MaterialNeoprene blend
Adjustable
Machine washable
Elasticity
With support tape or wrap
With mesh
View all

How We Tested the Knee Braces

Knee Braces Evaluation

We tested 15 top-selling braces from online stores to find the best one. Here at mybest, we define that as a brace that supports the muscles around the knee and the joint and can be worn all day without discomfort.

We tested each brace for the following six things:


  • How well does it support the muscles around the knee?
  • How well does it support the knee joint itself?
  • Is it easy to use?
  • Is it easy to put on and take off?
  • Does it irritate the skin?
  • Does it seem like it will last?

Products we tested

  1. ACEAdjustable Knee Brace
  2. BodyproxKnee Brace with Side Stabilizers
  3. CAMBIVO2 Pack Knee Compression Sleeve
  4. CAMBIVOKnee Brace
  5. DOUFURTKnee Brace with Side Stabilizers
  6. IncrediwearKnee Sleeves
  7. MODVELKnee Compression Sleeve
  8. MuellerAdjustable Knee Brace
  9. NEENCA Professional Knee Brace, Compression Knee Sleeve
  10. Physix GearKnee Support Brace
  11. Powerlix Knee Compression Sleeve
  12. Shock DoctorKnee Brace Compression
1

Muscle Support

Muscle Support

If you feel a dull pain in your knees while going about your day, you should choose a product that supports the muscles around the knee.


In our test, we wore each brace and performed actions including walking, going up and down stairs, and sitting in and getting up from a chair. We then evaluated how well the muscles in the knee were supported.

2

Knee Joint Support

Knee Joint Support

If your knee feels like it's about to buckle with each step, it's best to choose a brace that secures the kneecap and provides stability.


Again, we evaluated how well the knee joint was supported while walking, going up and down stairs, and sitting in and getting up from a chair.

3

Ease of Use

Ease of Use

If the brace makes it difficult to move, it's hard to keep wearing it regardless of how well it supports the knee.


We had six testers wear each brace and evaluate them on the following three points.


  • Whether there is any discomfort when bending and stretching the knee
  • Whether or not it fits well
  • Whether or not it feels stuffy
4

Putting It On and Taking It Off

Putting It On and Taking It Off

If you wear it daily, a brace that is easy to put on and take off would be ideal.


We had six testers evaluate the braces on how easy they were to get on and how smoothly they could be removed.

5

Skin-Friendliness

Skin-Friendliness

Knee braces come in contact with your skin all day, so it's essential to consider how they feel on the skin.


We had six testers wear each brace and evaluate whether they felt comfortable in this regard.

6

Construction

Construction

It’s easier to take care of the brace if it’s machine washable. However, reviews online mention products falling apart in the washing machine.


We put each product through 30 laundry cycles and checked for material deterioration. Even if it’s supposed to be washed by hand, a brace is easier to use if you can throw it in the laundry, so we gave higher scores for those.


We evaluated products highly if they were still in good shape, without frayed threads or stretched-out fabric.

Top 5 Knee Braces

No. 1: Physix GearKnee Support Brace

No. 1: IncrediwearKnee Sleeves

No. 3: MODVELKnee Compression Sleeve

No. 4: Powerlix Knee Compression Sleeve

No. 5: CAMBIVOKnee Brace

View Full Ranking
The descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.
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