Basic Elastic Knee Brace Supports

Here, we start by looking at how they work and what conditions they are most suitable for, then we compare the different basic elastic knee braces on the market and help you find the best one for you.  We will look at how they differ from each other and you can use the size guide to help you get the perfect fit for you.

How Do Elastic Knee Braces Help?

Elastic knee braces work in a couple of different ways:

1. Support: They fit snugly providing some compression to the knee which helps support the soft tissues (muscles and ligaments)
2. Warmth: They retain heat which increases the circulation to the knee and helps promote healing

Basic elastic knee braces provide mild support and protection and are perfect for mild knee pain and instability from:

They are not suitable for moderate to severe instability and pain – in these cases you need advanced or elite protection.

Best Basic Braces on the Market

So let's have a look at some of the best elastic knee braces currently on the market. We will compare different makes and look at the pros and cons of each as well as how to choose the right size for you.

STAR BUY: Magnet RX Knee Brace Support

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Elastic Knee Brace Pros and Cons

As you will see, there are three types of basic elastic knee brace: full closed sleeves, open sleeves and wrap around knee supports. Let's look at the pros and cons of each style.

1. Full Sleeve Knee Support

Why Choose this Type? A full sleeve provides support all around the joint and retains heat well.

They are very simple to use – just pull them on and you’re ready to go and they are perfect for people who get niggles when doing activities. These are generally the cheapest types of knee support on the market.

2. Open Sleeve Knee Support

Why Choose this Type? This style of elastic knee brace has a hole and support buttress at the front. This reduces the pressure on the patella which can be helpful when there is pain at the front of the knee e.g. from Runners Knee or Chondromalacia Patella.

Again, they are extremely easy to use – no Velcro straps to worry about.

3. Wrap Around Knee Support

Why Choose this Type? Wrap around elastic knee braces have adjustable straps so you can fit them to your own unique shape.  This makes them particularly useful with the changing sizes of swollen knees.

Some are open at the front for the patella (putting less pressure through it and allowing the knee to breathe) while others are closed all the way round. They are really easy to get on and off – you don’t have to pull them up your leg and they often tend to stay in place better than pull up sleeves. They are one size fits all so you don’t need to worry about choosing the right size.

A lot of it comes down to personal preference when choosing a knee support. I personally prefer wrap around elastic knee braces with an opening at the front as I find they tend to stay in place slightly better and don’t put pressure through the kneecap, which is a common cause of pain. But other people prefer having a sleeve to pull up so they don’t have to contend with Velcro!

Other Brace Options?

Choosing a knee brace can be difficult, especially as there are so many different ones on the market.

If you are experiencing moderate knee pain or are looking for a bit more support than these basic elastic knee braces and supports can provide, you would likely benefit from an advanced brace.

If you have had a serious injury and need maximum support, you will need an elite level brace to provide you with adequate support and prevent further injury.

To find the best brace for you, visit the brace guide to find out about the different styles of brace available and what conditions they are suitable for. We also provide recommendations on star buys based on the opinions of people just like you.

Elastic Knee Brace Size Guides

You might also be interested in the following articles:

• Knee Pain & Popping
• Swollen Knee Treatment
• Front Knee Pain
• Side Knee Pain
• Burning Knee Pain
• Knee Range Of Motion
• Knee Pain On Stairs

Page Last Updated: December 12th, 2024
Next Review Due: December 12th, 2026

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*Prices correct as of June 2024.  All prices are subject to change.  Please note we do not stock products directly and therefore have no control over price changes.  See advertising policy for more information.