Best Knee Sleeve For Running: Go Hard & Go The Distance
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Taking care of your knees is essential.
Should you ever injure your knee and not take the appropriate aftercare, you could be facing years of recurring injuries.
It could mean your running days are over.
Runner’s knee is one of the most common running complaints. One running site estimates it makes up 30% of all running injuries.
Knee sleeves for running can make your knee feel warmer and more supported, which some runners like. They don’t heal injuries, though, and the evidence that they prevent them is limited.
Finding the best knee sleeve for running could be the most sensible purchase you make. If you find the perfect one it could last you a good long while.
Within this guide, we’ll discuss what makes a great running knee sleeve. We’ve reviewed the product we’ve picked as the best running knee support and all the benefits.
What Makes a Good Knee Sleeve?
Knee sleeves and running knee supports are great at doing two things. They add a feeling of support and warmth, and some people wear them while getting back to running after a minor injury.
Knee supports for running, also called knee compression sleeves, apply gentle pressure around the joint.
Compression is one part of the standard rest, ice, compression and elevation (RICE) advice for a sore knee, and some runners say a sleeve eases mild aches.
Finding a good knee compression sleeve for running is important.
Look out for high-quality fabrics such as moisture wicking properties.
This keeps the area warm while still letting your skin breathe.
A great knee sleeve will have a snug fit all over and may even come with additional tightening belts or straps.
If you have a recurring injury or ongoing knee pain, ask a doctor or physical therapist whether a sleeve makes sense for you.
Strengthening your thigh and hip muscles is usually a core part of treating runner’s knee.
It’s worth mentioning that when it comes to your knees there’s no messing around.
Knee sleeves may ease mild aches, but they’re not a knee brace and they don’t heal injuries.
If your injury isn’t healing, you may need some extra support in the form of a knee brace. A visit to your doctor for further advice and recommendations is the best option in this case.
Now, we can move on and discuss our favorite product, the best knee sleeve for running.
Ultra Flex Athletics Knee Compression Sleeve Support For Running
This is a truly great product that’s fantastic value for money.
Marketed for running, jogging, sports and achy joints, it’s a comfortable option for everyday training.
Ultra Flex has received some of the highest rating and customer feedback due to its great price and reliable performance.
Ultra Flex says it uses quality materials to help keep the sleeve from loosening over time.
It’s been designed with a 4-way stretch, making this product durable and long-lasting.
With its stylish design and strong support, the Ultra Flex Athletics knee compression sleeve is the best knee sleeve for running.
To find the best fit for you, see our size guide below.
Size Guide
Start by measuring 4″ above your knee and choose between high compression or moderate compression depending on the level of support you prefer. Check the current size chart on the listing, as sizing can change.
A great fit makes the difference when it comes to finding the best knee support for running.
Small > 14.5-17″
Medium > 17-19.5″
Large > 19.5-22″
Pros and Cons
There are many benefits to discuss with the Ultra Flex sleeve, to begin with, the materials used.
It’s made with double silicone anti-slip materials to ensure the sleeve doesn’t slip, roll or slide down your leg.
It’s also made with a lycra and nylon blend, making this product lightweight for ultimate comfort.
It offers firm, even compression and comes in sizes for men, women and children.
The main downside is that, like any sleeve, it won’t treat knee problems such as runner’s knee, tendonitis or arthritis.
It may make a sore knee feel more comfortable, but it’s no substitute for a proper diagnosis.
See a doctor if the pain doesn’t improve within a few weeks. Get urgent care if your knee is badly swollen, gives way or locks, or you can’t put weight on it.
Conclusion
Now we know how important it is to look after your knees and what to look out for in a great running support, there’s no reason you shouldn’t have one.
As we discussed, you don’t need to be an avid runner or athlete.
If you wear one, pair it with sensible training: build mileage gradually and keep your thigh and hip muscles strong.
Remember, to ensure you get the best fit and avoid the sleeve from rolling, sliding, or moving out of place, follow the size guide above.
Sources
- Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome, OrthoInfo, American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons
- Knee pain, NHS
