If you’re after some extra support for your knee when running, it’s worth bearing in mind that there are several types of knee brace out there.
Some aim to offer mild support and compression, perhaps as a preventative measure for those prone to runner’s knee, while others will have more structure for those who are rehabilitating from more serious injuries like ACL issues.
Do knee braces help with running?
Knee supports, or braces, will aim to help secure the knee in place; some are designed with pressure points to try and reduce any discomfort.
If your knee’s in pain when you run, your first port of call should always be your doctor, who can diagnose the underlying issue and advise on how to alleviate the pain.
If you’ve done all this and you’re after a knee support as a safe way to help you continue running, then we’ve come up with a list of the best deals on knee supports for runners. Picks are based on analysis of user reviews and value for money.
How to pick the best knee support for runners
Look for a knee brace that’s made from comfortable material, that won’t chafe when in motion and can be worn for extended periods of time. It's also vital that the attachment systems are secure and don’t dig into the skin.
Lastly, ensure you choose the right size for your leg and check that the support is easy to clean if you’re planning on using it regularly.
Best knee supports for runners
Neenca Professional Knee Brace
Neenca says the brand's knee brace has in-built ‘medical grade knee pads’ and would be ideal for those who need extra support for running, covering issues from meniscus tears and ACL to arthritis.
Though it’s a closed support with no cut-out for the knee, the Neenca Professional Knee Brace has patella gel pads built into the sleeve, which surrounds the kneecap. Along with some spring stabilisers, these pads aim to even out pressure and keep the knee warm for pain relief.
The upper and lower edges have a silicone coating in order to help avoid any slippage when in motion. The elasticated fabric is also said to offer a decent level of compression to keep the knee secure and increase blood flow.
Neenca says the brace is made from a lightweight and fast-drying fabric that'll be breathable and absorb sweat.
Bracoo Adjustable Compression Knee Support
This knee support from Bracoo has an open-patella design, which means that the middle circle directly over the knee is cut out with the aim to relieve pressure on the knee joint during exercise.
There’s an in-built, reinforced stabiliser ring around this area that's designed to help evenly distribute stress across the ligaments and hold the patella in position.
The brace is one-size only, but has been designed with adjustable straps to help ensure a good fit for any leg size and shape.
As it's made from neoprene, the brand says it should provide a thick yet flexible and stretchy layer with breathability and sweat-wicking properties.
Kgone Knee Support
For a more budget-friendly option, consider the Kgone compression knee support from Amazon. The 3D knit material aims to be breathable and non-slip thanks to silicone bands along the edges.
Kgone says it's a tight, compressive sleeve that provides support during exercise for those suffering from tendonitis, arthritis, torn meniscus or ligament injury, ACL sprain, or joint pain.
Neo-G Knee Support
Claiming to be medically engineered for pain relief and recovery from injuries including those to the patella, tendon and meniscus, this brace from Neo-G has an open-patella design.
The thick ‘heat therapeutic neoprene’ aims to keep muscles and joints warm, and the brace is adjustable due to wrap-around attachment straps.
The Neo-G offers variable compression and is also registered as a class 1 medical device.
Nike Pro Knitted Knee Sleeve
A simple knit design, this Nike knee sleeve aims to protect the knee during training sessions and is designed to be ‘fiercely supportive’. The lightweight polyester material is said to be breathable and flexible, with multiple sizes available to ensure the best fit possible.
Ultimate Performance Elastic Knee Support
This seamless knee support sleeve from Ultimate Performance aims to provide stability and relief from discomfort for those suffering with arthritis, bursitis, tendonitis and unstable knees.
Said to be less bulky than other neoprene options, the four-way stretch material offers graduated compression for a good fit and support.
Ultimate Performance also has a hinged knee brace for those after a bit more in-built structure.
If you have any health concerns at all or are worried about injuries always consult a doctor, pharmacist or chartered physiotherapist.
