If you’ve ever suffered from any kind of knee pain, you know how important knee braces are. The most common use of a knee brace for golf is protection and support. Knee braces protect the knee from injuries while supporting the proper movement.
In this article, I will be comparing and reviewing the best knee braces. Many that professional golfers vouch for and use daily. And many that beginners find are the perfect companions for long-term practice.
If you’re a senior player experiencing knee pain, you don’t want that to interfere with your game. That’s why the best knee brace for golf is so essential. It helps you stay active during your game. And alleviates any kind of pain, stiffness, or soreness during and after.
Knee braces for golfers are not just for aesthetics: they are necessary to protect against overloading the kneecap and its surrounding tendons.
We used all the products that we recommended below, but users should try and test first to choose the best one.
If you are in a hurry to know the result of our test, we find the Crucial Compression Knee Brace Compression Sleeve as the Best Knee Brace for Golf.
Best Knee Braces for Golf – 2024 Reviews
What are the best features of a knee brace? It should be the perfect size for you. Designed to provide support but without the tightness. And most importantly, it should not restrict movement. While, at the same time, it doesn’t allow the knees to splay out as that can lead to injury.
With these features in mind, I’ve found the perfect knee braces for you!
8. Mava Sports Reflexology Knee Support Sleeve – Best lightweight knee brace for golf
Key Features
- The knee support sleeves have a versatile use.
- It provides a therapeutic effect for wearers.
- The knee support promotes nerve function.
Pros
Good for reducing pain and stiffness.
Proper cushioning and lightweight.
Great support with breathability.
Cons
None so far.
This knee brace is designed to provide immediate pain relief and support. Whether you experience stiffness from a sprain, a medical condition, or overexertion. The Mava Sports Knee Support is a superior and functional choice.
It adds stability with comfort at an affordable price. Perfect for day-long use. It has versatile purposes including walking, running, climbing, and other gym uses. The contoured padding over the knee cap offers incredible compression.
The compression is light but powerful. It won’t feel stuffy or restrictive. Even if it’s hot outside, the fabric stays cool and keeps the skin dry.
Lots of golfers complain about their knees “giving out.” With this best knee brace for golf, you do not have to worry about any such thing. The functionality of this knee brace is supportive and long-lasting.
Who should use this?
Athletes and active people suffering from stiff knees with pain should use this support sleeve. The Mava Sports Reflexology Knee Support Sleeve mimics the massaging sensation that keeps your joint warm. People feeling pain and wanting more stability on their knees during a golf round should wear this kind of support.
Who should not use this?
Do not use this knee brace at bedtime. The device works wonders during mobility.
7. Bauerfeind Sports Knee Support Brace – Best active knee brace for golf
Key Features
- The braces offer more breathability when doing heavy activities.
- The medical-grade compression stands out.
- The Air Knit fabric of the Sports Knee Support is moisture-wicking and lightweight.
Pros
Better stabilization and breathability.
Super comfortable and protective fabric.
Better long-term assistance from stiffness and pain.
Cons
It may roll from the edges.
The Bauerfeind Sports Knee Brace is a superior technology option. Known for its medical-grade compression, it’s stable and long-lasting. It’s an excellent product that has shown great results in terms of performance and durability.
For golfers, it is sized perfectly. With an optimally balanced weight, it feels light and supportive. Ideal for golfers with former injuries, stiffness, and knee pain. This knee brace for golf is built for improving knee movement.
It disperses heaviness and stiffness on the knees. The knitted fabric of the brace feels tight and firm. Enough to activate muscles for better performance. And to boost muscle recovery and warmth after.
Whether you’re a golfer who’s also a runner. Or you go to the gym every weekend for extra power training for golf. Wearing this support brace can keep your knees protected and pain-free.
Who should use this?
Golfers wanting prevention and protection against common knee injuries like sprains, strains, swelling, and overuse should wear these braces. Recreational lifters, functional fitness athletes, and weightlifters can also wear these knee support sleeves.
Golfers with medical issues on the knees (arthritis, tendinitis, etc.) should have at least a pair of these knee sleeves. The medical-grade features increase confidence, especially for senior golfers, if they want to boost blood circulation in the knee.
Who should not use this?
Persons with intentions of using the device as a crutch or as a means of creating joint stability; should not wear these knee sleeves.
6. Copper Health Knee Brace – Best ventilation knee brace for golf
Key Features
- The knee sleeve contains copper for anti-bacterial growth.
- Improves blood circulation: even at rest.
- The most hygienic knee brace.
Pros
Lightweight and soft fabric.
Well-ventilation and anti-odor.
It protects from injuries and stiffness.
Cons
None so far.
The Copper Health Knee Brace is a good option for most golfers. It’s perfect for all-day use. Comfortable, supportive, and long-lasting. It has a smooth and soft inner lining. So even if you wear it all day, it won’t leave a mark.
For the cost, it’s a valuable and effective buy. Not too thin, or flimsy, or stiff to walk around in. It has a supportive structure with a pull-on closure. The copper fabric reduces pain, alleviates stiffness, and improves breathability.
The double anti-skid special weaving design improves how your knees feel in the brace. The spandex and copper nylon material is breathable on a whole new level. It keeps your skin dry and perspiration-free. While the fabric keeps from slipping down or moving sideways.
So if a supportive and functional knee brace is what you’re looking for. Then this is the best knee brace for golf – beginners and advanced players.
Who should use this?
Aside from golf, people (men & women) engaged in baseball, running, tennis, and basketball should use the Copper Knee Brace. Also, persons with arthritis and swelling leg muscles are advised to use knee support. The ventilating effect of the brace offers more breathability.
Players recovering from knee pain and want prevention from injuries during a game should consider using the brace. The copper content protects you from a bad smell after use. The high copper content of the fabric (60%) also reduces swelling, inflammation, and muscle soreness.
Who should not use this?
Patients or players with ACL (anterior cruciate ligament) on the knee should not wear this brace support as an aid. A functional knee brace is more appropriate.
5. RiptGear Knee Compression Sleeve – Best knee brace for surgeries/medical conditions
Key Features
- TheRiptGear is a medical-grade compression sleeve.
- It is available in eight sizes.
- The brace is a blend of three fabrics (spandex, nylon, and rubber.
Pros
It alleviates pain and stiffness.
Keeps the knees warm and dry.
Ideal for medical conditions.
Cons
The fabric may feel too heavy.
RiptGear Knee Compression Sleeve has many perks. Its material construction and functionality are spot on. It offers support, pain relief, and mobility. And it provides an exceptional level of comfort and cushioning to avoid pinching.
You can re-adjust the sleeve to allow a little movement. For golfers with a former knee injury or arthritis, it even allows the padding to restrict extreme movements. The cost of this knee brace is affordable and cost-effective.
This knee compression sleeve is also good for medical purposes. That is if you’ve undergone surgery or tendon pain or meniscus. The padding keeps the knee warm and comfortable. And you won’t feel like you’re wearing a compression sleeve while you’re wearing it.
Even if you do wear it for a long period of time. It’s easy to walk in. It doesn’t feel too hot or sweaty. And it’s very non-restrictive. It reduces swelling and inflammation often associated with stiffness. For knee support, I highly recommend this knee brace for golf.
Who should use this?
Did you undergo knee surgery (such as meniscus) in the past weeks and want to play golf? You better wear this kind of knee brace. The RiptGear Knee Compression Sleeve is therapeutic: it keeps the wound from surgery dry and breathable even if you move heavily.
The compression knee brace has a comfortable cushioning perfect for surgery rehabilitation. The soft and breathable fabric blend enhances healing with utmost support.
Who should not use this?
The fabric of this knee support is quite heavy than ordinary braces. It is thicker and may not suit your surgery. So, if you do not want thick fabric and feel uncomfortable with it: better choose a thin one.
4. EzyFit Knee Brace Support – Best mid compression knee brace for golf
Key Features
- The brace fits several medical conditions.
- The material is neoprene.
- Keeps injured knee non-splayed.
Pros
Effective and functional support.
It reduces pain and discomfort from injuries.
The hooks are smooth and irritation-free.
Cons
It restricts bending.
It’s time to start treating your knee responsibly with a knee brace that has it all. The right level of compression, a secure fit, and breathable design. This is one of the best and most functional knee braces for golf.
For starters, the EzyFit Knee Brace never slips down. In terms of size, it’s a bit on the larger end of the spectrum. So it’s a reliable and must-buy choice for plus sizes. If you’ve suffered from a knee injury and you need proper support, this is the brace you need.
It’s not very comfortable because it’s firm and tight. Having said that, it offers proper support and pain relief because it is not cushiony. If you want a knee brace that keeps your knee from splaying, this is what you’ll need.
You can wear them for hours without feeling uncomfortable. The brace is made of velcro and it has a hook and loop closure. So you can adjust it just a little bit and feel completely at ease and supported by the construction.
Who should use this?
For golfers suffering from arthritis or recovering from meniscus tear surgery, the EzyFit Knee Brace Support is one of the best choices. The sleeve is also better for running and other medical support movements.
People who want utmost support doing exercises while healing from meniscus tear surgery will benefit from wearing this brace support. Also, for those suffering from arthritis and other medical issues on the knee, it is the perfect knee sleeve.
Who should not use this?
The knee support comes in sizes (Medium, Large, and X-L) that will not fit players with small leg frames. It is also not advisable for bending, as the fabric restricts the action.
3. Modvel 2 Pack Knee Brace Compression Sleeve – Best high compression knee brace for golf
Key Features
- The fabric stays dry no matter what!
- Non-slip double silicone design.
- The sleeves provide optimal compression.
Pros
The fabric stays dry and cool.
The grips stay in one place.
Comfortable and easy to wear.
Cons
The material is too thick.
In a nutshell, a knee brace is something you wear to prevent injuries. But you can also wear one to reduce pain and discomfort if you are experiencing it. For golfers, this means wearing a knee brace to stop letting pain interfere with your golf swing.
Most golfers worship knee braces because it’s super-functional and useful. And wearing one means you take your golf practice seriously. This knee brace is one of the most comfortable options out there.
It’s good for pain relief, muscle recovery, and mobility. It offers support and compression for arthritic knees or common knee pain. Stiff joints, soreness, pinching, restrictive movement. The solution to all these problems is in this knee brace.
It’s designed for both men and women. In a wide variety of sizes and colors, the fabric is durable and efficient. Enough for you to machine wash the knee brace and it won’t lose its shape. The sleeves fit well without slipping down.
Taking into consideration how this knee brace is designed, it’s you’d prefer it over everything else. It’s supportive, breathable, and durable.
Who should use this?
People experiencing medical problems (arthritis, meniscus tear, joint pain, etc.) on both knees should use knee supports. The Modvel Knee Braces provide utmost compression to relieve pain and inflammation.
Active people (golfers, basketball, soccer players, etc.) should try wearing these knee braces if experiencing pain in the knees. The thick fabric with a streamlined fit protects and compresses the knees with comfortability.
Who should not use this?
Patients recovering from knee surgery other than meniscus tear needing total rest should not wear these knee braces. The knee support is better used when you want more mobility.
2. Crucial Compression Knee Brace Compression Sleeve – Best easy to pull knee brace for golf – Editor’s Choice
Key Features
- The brace has a no-slip double grip.
- It is one of the cheapest brands.
- The pair offers fast pain relief.
Pros
No skin irritation or tightness.
The grips stay in one place.
Great support and functional compression.
Cons
The sizing chart is a bit inaccurate.
You need a knee compression brace if you’re experiencing arthritic pain. The compression on this knee brace for golf is tight but supportive. For somebody with extreme knee problems like stiffness, soreness, restrictive movement, etc. You should definitely give these a try.
It’s so good you can wear it for daily activities outside of golf too. The fabric is nylon and spandex so it’s super long-lasting. It doesn’t give you a hard time in hot and humid weather. The fabric is smooth and breathable.
The dotted design is what keeps the knee brace from sliding down. So it’s anti-slip, grippy, and firm. The fit is so great and functional that you won’t know you’re wearing them. Besides the fact that the compression is firmly tight. So it keeps the joints cushiony and warm to relieve pain.
This is a good and reliable knee brace for golfers. It’s a great choice to relieve extreme pain and discomfort. Even if you feel a pinching sensation in your knee while you’re standing. This is an all-around and functional pick.
Who should use this?
The Crucial Compression Sleeves come in a pair with the lowest cost. First-time knee sleeve wearers should try this brand initially. The affordable price but instant support and stability will give you more idea of how it feels wearing one. From there: you could experiment with other brands that will match your preferred knee protection.
Golfers who want optimal knee support, even outside the golf course, should use the Crucial Compression Knee Brace. The knee stretchy knee sleeve is also ideal on a golf course with uneven terrain, especially when walking in a steep landscape.
Who should not use this?
Overweight golfers, especially women with sizeable thighs should not wear these sleeves. The tapered knee brace may roll down your thigh when you sit.
1. UFlex Knee Compression Sleeve Single Wrap Knee Brace
Key Features
- The brace has a 4-way stretch.
- It enhances efficient blood.
- The brace is perfect for muscle recovery.
Pros
Excellent compression and support.
Long-lasting material and rubber grips.
Good for boosting blood flow and ventilation.
Cons
It does have a plastic-y smell.
These are the best compression knee sleeves for golfers. Designed to provide pain relief, muscle recovery, and optimal compression. The breathable, anti-odor knee brace design is good for beginners to advanced players.
For lots of new golfers, joint pain is a great hindrance. It can stand in between you and your best game yet. With a knee compression like the UFlex, you get the optimal support you need. Known for its anti-slip design which is made of silicone. The wave design of the wrap feels solid and stays stable.
The nylon-mesh and spandex material is known for improving air circulation. And also for managing and maintaining an unrestricted range of motion. So for players experiencing stiffness in movement, especially around the knee joints. This is the best knee brace to take the pressure off.
Who should use this?
Several sports-oriented people can wear the UFlex Knee Compression Sleeve: whether you are a weightlifter, runner, or hiker. For golfers, beginners, or veterans, the knee brace is a pain reliever for aching knees.
The single wrap feature of this knee sleeve is best for squatting, running, bending, and other heavy movements. The sleeves will aid in reducing inflammation and swelling when playing golf.
Who should not use this?
If you have an extra small knee size: the UFlex Knee Compression Sleeve is not for you.
Complete Buying Guide of the Best Knee Brace for Golf
How Does Knee Braces Work?
A knee brace to support golfers is designed for a speedy recovery in case of a knee injury. It also drastically minimizes the likelihood of knee injuries, to begin with.
And how knee braces work is they keep your knees from making certain abnormal movements. They push your knee caps outward at the time of movements. So the joints don’t get into pain or injury-inducing bent or straight positions. Thus, reducing the chances of golfers developing any sort of knee injury, no matter how old.
Why Put On A Knee Brace When Playing Golf
When you pick up golf balls, you’re bending, squatting, and performing other such movements you’re probably not even aware of. Then, on top of that, there’s so much walking involved too. And when you combine all of this, it means a lot of stress on your knee joints. Even more so if you’re an avid and/or maybe an older golfer!
Speaking of being a senior player, arthritis seems to be a common medical condition. And we don’t need to tell you that osteoarthritis tends to weaken your knee joints. So it’s only natural to have to deal with knee problems because of golf.
At such times, whatever your age or how many ever times a week you choose to golf, protecting the knees goes a long way when it comes to preventing pain or injuries. So when you wear a knee brace, you’re increasing proprioception and enhancing stability.
At the same time, knee braces help a great deal in terms of speeding recovery in the case of a knee injury that has already transpired. The medical-grade compression of a good knee brace assists with healing. And no, this is not something you get with standard braces and neoprene sleeves.
A knee brace specifically engineered for the game consists of a 3D flat kit fabric. This hugs the knee joint tightly. In the process, draining out all the lactic acid build-up for supporting recovery. And this extra support, no doubt, stabilizes your knee joint without restricting your movements. That means you can putt, chip, drive, etc. as much as you want.
Types of Knee Braces In Golf
It’s important to keep in mind that the wrong kind of knee brace tends to increase rather than decrease your chances of injury. In fact, it can also cause a torn meniscus. When the brace is too tight, it restricts blood circulation. Therefore, aggravating the condition rather than healing it. Likewise, very loose knee braces fail to provide an adequate amount of support.
When dealing with a minor tear, a flexible knee brace like a knee sleeve gives your joint all the warmth and compression it needs for alleviating pain and other such symptoms. However, it’s not so great for stability.
If stability is your major concern, because maybe the tear is more severe, then you need an unloader knee brace. This one’s more effective as it’s made for taking the weight and strain away from the affected region. And then transfer this weight to the healthy side of your knee.
Things to Take Into Account When Buying
Once you wear braces during your game of golf, they may be for support or injury. Whatever the reason: wearing these knee sleeves offers moderate support needed in cases like an acute sprain or soreness. Here are the crucial things you should consider before buying knee braces for playing golf.
1. Size
There’s just no point in wearing a knee brace if it isn’t doing any good. The extra support is indeed supposed to protect your knee. And it’s only going to do that if the knee brace fits around your knee cap properly.
So before you purchase, check the measurements printed on the label. The right size is the only one that works.
2. Level of Support for the Knee
This factor plays a crucial role when choosing knee support for a sport. Because not all knee injuries are the same. Likewise, not all knee support is the same. There are some injuries that demand a higher level of support.
In that context, buying a knee brace built with more support makes sense for deeper, faster pain relief and recovery.
3. Material
There are knee braces built with plastic, fabric, neoprene, metal, and more. So which material is the most fitting choice for you? It actually, once again, depends on your personal needs and preferences. For example, if you jog every day, then a knee brace made of a high-impact material for more stability and support during movements is a must.
4. Comfort and Stability
Common knowledge suggests neoprene is the only one that can provide an effective and perfect fit for a knee brace. But this misconception is untrue. Spandex combined with cotton, nylon, and polyester are also some of the materials used in knee sleeves.
The point is; to choose the one that will make you more stable and comfortable. Bending, lunging, and squatting is more common in golf. You can probably choose the one that could improve your stability and reduce pain with activity.
The spandex on knee sleeves also helps in supporting the joints because of their elastic and moisture-wicking properties. The compression it provides makes your knees more comfortable as the elastane improves blood circulation.
Moreover, choosing the perfect size for your legs will sum up the utmost comfort and stability you need.
5. Durability and Quality
You surely want a device that lasts and deliver the goods every time you play. Look for a knee brace that guarantees protection and support. Not only during your swings but also while you walk, bend, and squat.
A durable product is synonymous with quality: so keep an eye for knee sleeves offering the best quality in optimal support. One of the things you must consider in ensuring a quality product is the breathability it provides while wearing them for extended periods.
For old golfers (seniors) suffering from arthritis: look for sleeves designed for medical conditions (like the RiptGear Compression Knee Sleeve). Men and women golfers wanting versatile golf knee braces for joint pain, pain relief, and those avoiding future injury: one of the best knee sleeves is the UFlex Knee Compression Sleeve Support.
In any circumstance, a durable and high-quality knee brace should serve your needs well without getting uncomfortable. Do not settle for inferior sleeves that may worsen your knee condition and will not give you confidence.
6. Cost and Value
Many knee compression sleeve brands fluctuate in cost depending on the material and the comfort it gives. The cost of a pair varies as the cost of the material varies. A pricey product may contain high-quality material with more functionality, such as premium neoprene.
But it is not always the case. It is pointless to buy knee compression braces for styling or esthetic purposes. Some products come affordable (like the ones we reviewed above) yet offer appreciative performances and ease of use.
Investing in a device for your health and well-being ensures a pleasing development as you pursue your hobby long-term.
How Much Does the Best Knee Brace for Golf Cost?
The price of a knee brace is determined by several factors…
The Type of Knee Brace
Not every knee brace is built the same, meaning not every one of them serves the same purpose. There are prophylactic knee braces for preventing ligament injuries. And these, no doubt, are more expensive in comparison to the rehabilitative knee braces. The latter is better suited for avoiding harmful or sudden knee movements.
Support and Severity of the Condition
Knee braces, you know the ones designed for pain relief purposes, as in the case of arthritis, are priced at around $500. Then there are much more affordable neoprene knee braces that cost below $100. And these are made to deliver just minimal support.
The Material of Knee Brace
Metal knee braces are costlier than their plastic counterparts. Simply because the former is much more durable and stronger. So every material has a different price.
Treating Golf Knee Injuries
Paying a visit to a physiotherapist or doctor is the most important when dealing with a golf injury. They, more often than not, recommend the following treatment…
For Arthritis
When the treatment method is non-surgical, the solution involves wearing a supportive knee brace for golf. Along with ice or heat therapy and physiotherapy exercises.
For Sprains and Strains
You can and should treat common, not-too-severe strains and sprains with the RICE treatment method. This includes Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation.
For Jumper’s Knee
Also called Patellar Tendinitis, Jumper’s Knee rarely ever requires surgery. This means treatment methods like doing these exercises can really help with healing. Sometimes even anti-inflammatory medication and corticosteroid injections are effective forms of treatment.
One last thing – before you try to do anything on your own to treat your knee or any other golf-related injury, please consult a doctor. It’s better to let a medical professional decide what works best for you.
FAQs
1. Can you play golf in a knee brace?
Yes, you can. Knee braces for golfers are not just when you have an injury or feeling some pain. Many medical practitioners recommend wearing knee support even for players without any symptoms of knee pain. The sleeves keep your knee joint warm and sturdy and keep the blood flowing on the legs.
Doctors have found that supporting the knee with compressive wraps increases peak power. They also conclude that the knee sleeve does not add weight to your squat or lunging.
2. What type of knee brace is best?
For athletes, one of the best knee braces or sleeves is the Bauerfeind Sports Knee Support – Knee Brace for Athletes. It has a medical-grade compression that even young golfers find healthful and helpful in their games. The stabilization and Patellar knee pad are a priceless bonus.
Another good choice that we highly recommend because of its budget-friendly price is the Men & Women Crucial Compression Knee Sleeve. The braces are not only ideal for golf, but they are also suitable for jogging, basketball, CrossFit, and other intense workouts.
3. Can you play golf with a knee injury?
Yes, why not? But it all depends on your injury: If you are still comfortable walking miles even if you have an injury, you can play the game. The knee is the largest joint in the human body: It is crucial in every golf game and everyday life.
Our knees can withstand stress, but one wrong move may cause damage. Engaging in golf while you have a knee injury is a lot of challenges. But thanks to measures available today like the knee braces.
These knee sleeves can protect your knees from any stress and strain related to golf. The point is: to choose the correct sleeves for your knee injury. The wrong choice of knee braces may increase rather than decrease your chance of inflicting pain on your injury.
4. How do I stop my knees from hurting when golfing?
Many professional players experienced persistent knee pain at one time or another in their entire careers. But you do not need to be a professional golfer coming across some of the injuries in golf. Even pleasure or casual golfers can suffer injuries.
Although knee injuries are not the most common type of golf injury: they represent ten percent (10%) of golf-related traumas. The good news is: that it is preventable and curable. One of the prevention is to wear knee braces or knee sleeves of the correct size and comfort.
Here are some tips and tricks for keeping your joints from hurting when golfing:
- Warming up your joints before hitting the golf course is a good idea.
- Stay hydrated while in the game.
Do golf drills such as swinging, bending, and squatting.
Conclusion
The Crucial Compression Knee Brace Compression Sleeve is a great choice for most pro golfers. Whether you are experiencing knee pain from an old injury or overexertion. A knee brace will offer support and compression. It relieves discomfort associated with stiffness and soreness.
Knee braces act as corrective guides for proper movement and stability. It ensures your knees don’t “give out” or feel misaligned during play. The patella which is prone to tilting can often cause pain and discomfort in golfers.
So to protect the knees from that, and much more, a knee brace is essential. You can wear a knee brace on both knees or just one. It depends upon the level of discomfort or stiffness you feel.
The controlled and medical-grade compression of a knee brace provides warmth and cushioning. And that is why you need the anatomically-shaped benefits of a knee brace. And not just any knee brace to do the trick.
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Matt Stevens is the founder of Golfrough.com. He holds a Postgraduate in Sports Marketing and has played golf since he was four years old. Having experienced every high and low golf has to offer, his writing helps the average golfer avoid the mistakes he has made in 28-years on the course.