8 Best Knee Sleeves For Powerlifting

Knee sleeves are an important piece of equipment in a powerlifter's gym bag.

The highest-quality knee sleeve is the Titan Yellow Jacket Knee Sleeve, the most widely used in powerlifting and my top choice. Click HERE for sizing and pricing.

Knee sleeves are used for joint protection, warmth, and stability. With the right knee sleeve for powerlifting, you can feel more secure under the barbell and lift more weight.

While other pieces of powerlifting equipment on the market are seen as optional, the knee sleeve is an absolute must, which is why you'll never see a competitive powerlifter without them.

8 Best Knee Sleeves in 2024

Here are the best knee sleeves for powerlifting:

1. Titan Yellow Jacket Knee Sleeve – Best Overall

The absolute highest quality knee sleeve is the Titan Yellow Jacket Knee Sleeve (click for pricing and sizing from Lifting Large). Some of the heaviest squats ever have been done with these sleeves. They are superbly designed and will last forever, which is why I think they’re the best powerlifting knee sleeves.

2. STrong Knee Sleeves by Slingshot – Runner Up

A close runner-up is the STrong Knee Sleeves by Sling Shot (click for pricing and sizing from Mark Bell Sling Shot). These have gained popularity among top-level powerlifters and have a tapered design at the bottom of the sleeve for a more comfortable fit.

3. Mava Sport 7MM Knee Sleeve – Best Knee Sleeves for Lifters on a Budget

If you're looking for quality knee sleeves for the gym but don't want to pay a premium price, look no further than the Mava Sport 7mm Knee Sleeve (click for pricing and sizing directly from Amazon). You'll save some cash and still get warmth and support.

4. Rehband 7MM Knee Sleeve – Most Versatile

Some complaints about knee sleeves are that they're only good for squats and deadlifts. But if you're looking for the best knee sleeve you can wear for virtually any exercise in the gym, you'll want the Rehband 7MM Knee Sleeve (click for pricing and sizing on Amazon).

5. Rogue 5MM Knee Sleeve – Best Knee Sleeves for Beginner Powerlifters

Beginners won't need the thickness that comes with the high-end knee sleeves. You'll only want a sleeve that's easy to get on/off, provides joint warmth and stability, and helps reduce knee pain from doing lots of squats. A great starter knee sleeve is the Rogue 5MM Knee Sleeve (click for pricing and sizing on Rogue Fitness).

6. MODVEL Knee Sleeves – Best for Recovery After an Injury

If you’re recovering from a knee injury, the MODVEL Knee Sleeves are a top-tier choice. These gym knee sleeves offer maximum support and stability around the knee cap to reduce knee pain and minimize the chances of re-injury.

7. Aeolos Knee Sleeves – Best Knee Sleeves for Knee Pain Reduction

The Aeolos Knee Sleeves are made of breathable and comfortable materials with double stitching for maximum durability. They have a high level of compression to stabilize the knee joint and reduce pain.

8. Iron Bull Strength 7mm Knee Sleeve – Featured Knee Sleeves

Iron Bull Strength 7mm knee sleeves are a great option for athletes looking for support and compression during weightlifting and powerlifting. They are made with high-quality neoprene, featuring a 3D contour design for a snug, comfortable fit.

Best Reviewed Knee Sleeves For Powerlifting

Let's take a look at each of these knee sleeves in more detail so you understand the pros and cons of each design.

In deciding which knee sleeve you should buy, you need to ask yourself:

1. Why do you want sleeves to begin with? (Is it for performance, knee stability, warmth, etc.)
2. How much thickness do you need, and are you a competitive powerlifter?
3. Which knee sleeve fits your budget?

Why Should You Trust My Recommendation?

I have been competing in powerlifting since 2007 — having competed at 12 national powerlifting championships and three world championships. I have also been the Head Coach for Team Canada Powerlifting since 2012 and have worked with world powerlifting champions and world record holders.

I have personally used many of the knee compression sleeves on this list at various times throughout my powerlifting career. As well, I consulted with 13 top-level powerlifters when writing this article, all of who have worn these knee sleeves and provided their feedback. This was to ensure my reviews weren't based on my own personal likes/dislikes but incorporated a subset of the broader powerlifting community.

Let's get started!

1. Titan Yellow Jacket Knee Sleeve – Best Overall

What I Love About The Titan Yellow Jacket Knee Sleeve

• The absolute gold standard in knee sleeve technology for powerlifting
• A proprietary ‘X' pattern across the knee cap to increase joint stability when lifting
• The extra thickness and length make lifting feel way more secure
• Extremely durable leading to no signs of wear and tear over time
• Used by several World Champion powerlifters
• Approved by the International Powerlifting Federation for competition use

Potential Cons

• They're on the higher end of pricing (for good reason, though)
• They sometimes are hard to take on and off if your legs are already sweaty
• Not many color options to choose from

The Titan Yellow Jacket Knee Sleeve is one of the most popular choices among lifters and is the best knee sleeve money can buy for powerlifting.

The knee sleeve has a unique “X” stitch pattern across the front, which some lifters say provides greater knee stability, especially under heavy load. In fact, super heavy-weight squatter, Jezza Uepa, has squatted 1036 lbs in these exact knee sleeves.

All sizes come in 7mm thickness and 30cm in length. If you want the most performance-enhancing benefit from knee sleeves, you'll want to stick to these dimensions.

Other knee sleeve brands compromise on the thickness and length for various sizes, but with Titan, you can be guaranteed that every size will come in these dimensions.

The brand is also approved for competition use by the International Powerlifting Federation.

There are currently 3 generations of the Titan Yellow Jack Knee Sleeve. Each generation has been made slightly more durable, which prevents wear and tear. So just make sure you get the 3rd generation sleeve, or else you might run into some fraying issues at the seams with extensive use.

A quick note about sizing: If you're a competitive powerlifter, you may want to size down because the tighter the knee sleeve, the more rebound you'll get out of the bottom of a squat.

Want to learn more? Read my individual product review of the Titan Yellow Jacket Knee Sleeves.

2. Strong Knee Sleeves by Slingshot

What I Love About The Strong Knee Sleeves

• Highly supportive 7mm knee sleeve made from high-quality neoprene
• More and more top-level powerlifters are preferring to use this sleeve
• Designed with a rigid construction providing great support
• They don't slide down when you start to sweat
• Approved by the International Powerlifting Federation for competition use

Potential Cons

• Some complaints of early wear and tear if you don't treat them properly

The Strong Knee Sleeve by Slingshot is gaining in popularity among many top-level powerlifters.

Mark Bell set out to create a knee sleeve that mimicked the performance-enhancing benefit of knee wraps. He chose the thickest neoprene available on the market to ensure the construction was rigid and durable.

What I like about these sleeves, in particular, is the tapered bottom. This will provide a bit more suction to the calf muscle so that the sleeve won't slide down as soon as you get sweaty.

The Strong Knee Sleeve also has 7mm thickness and 30cm length regardless of the size, and as of recently, has been approved for use in powerlifting competitions.

The reason why it's the runner-up is that one lifter I spoke with said you need to be careful in terms of laying them ‘flat' in your gym bag. If you bend or fold them, they seem to lead to fraying. So as long as you are careful with how you store them, they should last.

Want to learn more? Read my individual product review of the Slingshot STrong Knee Sleeves.

3. Mava Sport 7MM Knee Sleeve – Best Knee Sleeves for Lifters on a Budget

What I Love About The Mava Sport 7mm Knee Sleeves

• The most cost-effective knee sleeve if you want 7mm thickness
• It's constructed with exceptional comfort and support
• Slightly flexible neoprene that allows for greater versatility in movement patterns
• Extremely easy to slide on and off (a major complaint about the more rigid-style sleeves)
• Approved by the International Powerlifting Federation for competition use

Potential Cons

• Length not as long as other knee sleeves (only a problem for serious powerlifters who want to lift more weight)
• Not approved for use in powerlifting competition

The Mava Sport 7mm Knee Sleeve is a great budget-friendly option.

It's still a great option for powerlifters who want a high-quality knee sleeve that doesn't break the bank.

You won't get the same 30cm length though on all sizes, like the Titan Yellow Jacket Knee Sleeve, as the length will depend based on the overall size. But you only need to be concerned with the length of a knee sleeve if you are a serious competitive powerlifter wanting to lift more weight in the squat.

Furthermore, the neoprene is slightly more pliable (less rigid), so you won't get as much ‘pop' out of the bottom of a squat.

The real downside though is if you are a competitive powerlifter, this knee sleeve is not approved for competition use.

If you simply want a knee sleeve for warmth and protection, and you don't have a desire to compete in powerlifting, then this is a great choice.

Want to learn more? Read my individual product review of the Slingshot STrong Knee Sleeves.

4. Rehband 7MM Knee Sleeve – Most Versatile

What I Love About The Rehband 7mm Knee Sleeves

• Slightly more flexible, which allow for more versatility outside just the powerlifting movements
• Seems to provide slightly more ‘warmth' than the other knee sleeves
• Available in several styles and colors
• A company with a long history making knee sleeves, so you know you're getting a good product
• Approved by the International Powerlifting Federation for competition use

Potential Cons

• Rehband knee sleeves are notorious for trapping moisture and odor – this means you have to dry them after each workout and wash them regularly

The most versatile knee sleeve is the Rehband 7mm Knee Sleeve.

For many years, this was the only knee sleeve option for powerlifters who wanted a 7mm knee sleeve. However, it wasn't really designed for powerlifting, but rather Olympic weightlifting.

This sleeve was designed to be versatile across several different activities, including powerlifting, weightlifting, and CrossFit.

The only drawback of being more versatile is that it doesn't have a rigid construction.

I used to wear the Rehband 7mm knee sleeves when I first started to powerlift. Then when I got more advanced, I switched to a more rigid-style sleeve. This is because I wanted a little bit more ‘pop' out of my squats (I noted this in my head-to-head comparison of the Rehband vs SBD Knee Sleeve article).

The Rehband 7mm Knee Sleeve comes in a variety of colors, including black, red, camo, purple, and blue. It's also approved for use in powerlifting competitions.

5. Rogue 5MM Knee Sleeve – Best Knee Sleeves for Beginner Powerlifters

What I Love About The Rogue 5mm Knee Sleeves

• It's a great starter knee sleeve — it gets the job done well
• One of the cheapest sleeves you can buy that's still worth getting
• It stays in place on the knee cap unlike other 5mm sleeves
• Can be used for a variety of movements in the gym
• Approved by the International Powerlifting Federation for competition use

Potential Cons

• You will likely out-grow this knee sleeve and want something thicker over time
• May lead to wear and tear quicker since it's thinner

The Rogue 5mm Knee Sleeve is the best knee sleeve for beginner powerlifters.

You would be considered a beginner powerlifter if you haven't competed yet or have less than one year of competition experience.

Until you are further along in your powerlifting career, you don't need to worry about gaining a performance advantage by wearing rigid knee sleeves. All you need is a knee sleeve that is easy to get on and off and provides a bit of warmth to the knee joint.

The Rogue 5mm knee sleeve has the same construction as I detailed earlier with the 7mm version. You're just simply paying for less thickness, which is actually a significant cost saving.

Sometimes with 5mm knee sleeves, the sleeve doesn't stay in place on the knee cap, and you'll find yourself having to pull it up over the course of the workout. However, this is not a concern with the Rogue 5mm knee sleeve. You never have to adjust it once you have it set in place.

For this reason alone, it's the only 5mm knee sleeve that I will recommend.

Want to learn more? Read my individual product review of the Rogue Knee Sleeve.

6. MODVEL Knee Sleeves – Best for Recovery After an Injury

What I Love About The MODVEL Knee Sleeves

• Offer a high level of support and stability around the knee joints to minimize knee pain and knee discomfort
• Made using breathable, flexible material that is comfortable to wear
• Machine washable

Potential Cons

• You might need to size up, as this knee brace fits very tightly around the thighs and may shrink in the wash
• Not supportive enough for very heavy squats
• Can’t be worn for powerlifting competitions

The MODVEL Knee Sleeves (also referred to as braces on the listing) are clinically designed to reduce knee pain, stabilize the knee cap, and reduce pressure around the knee joint. They are made with a unique blend of nylon and latex, offering a comfortable, sweat-wicking, breathable material.

You can also wear these knee sleeves during sports or for powerlifting sessions for extra support and stability around your knees. After use, you can wash the sleeves in a washing machine, ready for when you next need to use them. However, some users complained that their knee sleeves shrunk in the wash, causing them to become too tight around the thighs.

Because of their full coverage design, the MODVEL Knee Sleeves are the best knee sleeves for those getting back into training following a knee injury. They will lower the risk of re-injury or further knee damage, so you can enjoy worry-free workouts and recover as quickly as possible.

7. Aeolos Knee Sleeves – Best Knee Sleeves for Knee Pain Reduction

What I Love About The Aeolos Knee Sleeves

• Can significantly reduce knee discomfort during exercise
• Are appropriate for powerlifting, sports, and cardiovascular exercise
• Can reduce swelling around the knee for a speedy recovery after injury

Potential Cons

• They may be too tight around the calves for some people
• The material can start to fray after several uses
• Not approved for powerlifting competitions

The Aeolos Knee Sleeves offer a breathable and comfortable way to reduce knee pain and instability while squatting, deadlifting, or practicing sports. They protect the knee and reduce unwanted movement when engaging in various activities. I've labeled the Aeolos Knee Sleeves as the best for pain reduction because they are effective at lowering exercise-associated pain.

They are double-stitched to provide a high level of durability. However, the material can start to fray at the edges after a lot of use. Furthermore, the bottom hem of this knee compression sleeve is tight and might start to feel uncomfortable after an hour or so.

Looking for another excellent knee sleeve for powerlifting? Check out my review of the Stoic Knee Sleeves.

8. Iron Bull Strength 7mm Knee Sleeves – Featured Knee Sleeves

What I Love About The Titan Yellow Jacket Knee Sleeve

• High-quality neoprene: The Iron Bull 7mm knee sleeves are made with high-quality neoprene, which is a durable and comfortable material.
• 3D contour design: The 3D contour design of these sleeves provides a comfortable fit that conforms to the shape of your knee.
• Moderate level of compression: The moderate level of compression offered by these sleeves can help to reduce pain and inflammation in your knees.
• USPA and IPL approved: These sleeves are approved for use in USPA and IPL competitions.

Potential Cons

• May be too tight for some people: The moderate level of compression offered by these sleeves may be too tight for some people.
• Not as breathable as some other knee sleeves: The neoprene material used in these sleeves is not as breathable as some other materials, which can make them warm during workouts.

If you're a powerlifter or weightlifter, then you know that your knees are one of the most important joints in your body. They take a lot of stress during your workouts, so protecting them with the right gear is important.

The Iron Bull 7mm knee sleeves are a great option for powerlifters and weightlifters who are looking for support and compression during their workouts.

Some people won't like how stiff and rigid they are. They can feel bulky on my legs. However, they feel great after I broke them in, and the compression is solid from day one.

If you're a powerlifter or weightlifter who is looking for a pair of knee sleeves that will help you lift more weight and stay injury-free, then the Iron Bull 7mm knee sleeves are a great option. You can purchase them on the Iron Bull Strength website.

Different Types of Knee Sleeves and How To Determine the Best Ones For You

The following criteria were used in order to evaluate each of the knee sleeves for powerlifting. These are the features that you want to look for in a good knee sleeve.

Material

The material is what the knee sleeve is made of, whether that's neoprene, other synthetic rubbers, spandex, nylon, or polyester.

The best powerlifting knee sleeves should be made out of neoprene or a combination of neoprene and other synthetic rubbers, depending on the stiffness you desire. All of the lifting knee sleeves reviewed fit within these categories.

Spandex, nylon, or polyester knee compression sleeves are used for more non-lifting activities, such as hiking or running. They will keep your knees warm but won't support the knee joint, reduce joint pain under significant load, or allow you to lift more weight.

Thickness

The thickness between knee sleeves will vary between 3mm to 7mm.

Virtually all serious powerlifters choose to wear a 7mm knee sleeve because it will provide the greatest level of support. In most instances, the 7mm will allow you to lift more weight because of the compression on the knee cap.

If you find knee sleeves beyond 7mm thickness, you cannot wear them in powerlifting. This is because powerlifting rules say that the maximum thickness for knee sleeves in competition is 7mm.

While you can choose to wear 5mm knee sleeves if you're a beginner powerlifter, you'll want to avoid the 3mm knee sleeves because they won't provide any support under heavy load. Another reason to wear 5mm knee sleeves is if you specifically want a knee sleeve for deadlifting.

All of the knee sleeves reviewed fall within 5-7mm thickness.

Curious to know whether you should go with a 5mm or 7mm knee sleeve? Check out my article on 5mm vs 7mm Knee Sleeve: Which Is Better?

Length

The length of the knee sleeves will vary between 20cm to 30cm.

The longer the knee sleeve, the greater the support and compression, leading to stronger lifts. But just like powerlifting rules around thickness, the length cannot exceed 30cm if you are a competitive lifter.

The Titan Yellow Jacket Knee Sleeves and Strong Knee Sleeves are the only two sleeves that have the maximum 30cm length on all sizes. So even if you buy a size small, you'll still get the 30cm in length. This is why you'll see so many powerlifters wearing these two brands.

Other knee sleeves will scale their length depending on the size. This might be a problem if you're a competitive powerlifter because you'll want to optimize your knee sleeves for the longest possible length.

Check out my complete list of Powerlifting Equipment For Women, which includes 9 must-have items if you're a competitive lifter.

Design

The design of the knee sleeve refers to how it's shaped and constructed.

Some knee sleeves have a larger opening at the top in order to make it easier to slide on and off, such as the Mava 7mm Knee Sleeve and The Rehband 7mm Knee Sleeve.

Other knee sleeves, like the Titan Yellow Jacket Knee Sleeve, keep the opening at the top smaller with a more ‘tapered' look in order to prevent the sleeve from moving around while lifting and to provide added compression.

Some knee sleeve designs have certain contours that are more suitable for varied movement patterns (running, hiking, jumping, etc.), while others are hyper-specialized for the powerlifting movements. I only reviewed knee sleeves for powerlifting, not any other type of activity.

Interested in learning more about powerlifting clothing brands? Click to check out my list of the top 20 brands.

Stitching

The stitching on any good knee sleeve for powerlifting needs to be reinforced in order to handle the constant loading requirements. You'll want to make sure that it's hemmed or enclosed on the edges.

Additionally, you'll want to make sure the stitching isn't in a place that will make contact with the barbell often since this will lead them to fray quicker.

Some of the older versions of the knee sleeves reviewed had fraying issues, but all of the new-generation knee sleeves have sorted out these issues. For example, the Stoic Knee Sleeves designed patent-pending technology to double-stitch the areas of the knee sleeve that need the most reinforcement (check out my review of the Stoic Knee Sleeves).

If you're buying knee sleeves outside of the ones recommended in this article, I'd be concerned with fraying. But all of the ones reviewed here have high-quality reinforced stitching.

Ease-of-Use

You might think, how hard is it to “use” knee sleeves?

Well, the thicker the material, the tighter the knee sleeves, and the harder they are to put on. This is especially the case if you're trying to put them on after you've already done a few sets of squats and your legs are sweaty.

Some powerlifters choose to buy really tight knee sleeves in order to gain every advantage possible to lift more weight. But, you can often see these lifters spending 10 minutes trying to put on their knee sleeves.

If this is a concern, either put your knee sleeves on before you start warming up, or choose a more flexible knee sleeve that follows the proper sizing.

Competition Approved

If you're a competitive powerlifter, you'll only want to buy knee sleeves that are approved by the International Powerlifting Federation.

If you're a competitive powerlifter, you'll only want to buy lifting knee sleeves that are approved by the International Powerlifting Federation or whatever federation you compete in.

Many of the best knee sleeves on the list above are IPF-approved, but some aren’t. The ones that aren’t IPF-approved work well for casual lifters, but competitive powerlifters should avoid them and opt for knee sleeves that are competition-approved.

Check out my article on all of the IPF & USAPL Approved Competition Gear and Equipment.

Price

Even the best knee sleeves are relatively inexpensive compared to other powerlifting equipment. But you can expect to spend between $50-90 USD, depending on the make and quality.

Given how many times you'll wear knee sleeves for powerlifting and how long they last, you'll find incredible value regardless of the money spent.

Knee Sleeves vs. Knee Braces

Many people easily confuse knee braces with knee sleeves and vice versa. The best knee sleeves slide over the knee to provide compression. They can be used in the gym during heavy lifts to stabilize the knee and reduce the risk of injury and joint pain.

Knee compression sleeves are lighter and more comfortable than knee braces. They can also be helpful if you’re recovering from an injury and want to minimize swelling and pain.

Knee braces, on the other hand, are specially designed to keep the knee in a stable, almost fixed position after injury. The aim of a knee brace is to prevent further injury or damage to the knee. They restrict movement as you work to regain the full range of motion in the joint.

Can Knee Sleeves Improve Your Lifts?

There has been little scientific research on neoprene knee sleeves on performance (strength gain). Much of the research draws conclusions from what we know about the use of ‘joint compression' more broadly.

However, here is the research as it stands currently:

Knee Sleeves May Help Generate More Speed Out of the Hole

Miletello (2009) noted that acceleration from the bottom of the squat seemed to be the factor that separated more advanced powerlifters from novice powerlifters. It was noted that wearing the best knee sleeves for squats can decrease knee flexion at the bottom of the lift and may help contribute to greater speeds out of the bottom.

Knee Sleeves Keep the Joint at a Better Angle

Birmingham et al. (1998) researched the knee joint position with and without knee sleeves. They concluded that the ability to replicate a specific joint angle while wearing sleeves was much easier than doing so without sleeves. This means you might have better knee tracking, leading to a better squat and more efficient technique in knee sleeves.

Knee Sleeves Increase Warmth and Decrease the Inflammatory Risk

Church et al. (2016) concluded that knee sleeves provide a level of warmth for the joint, which could potentially decrease inflammatory risk and joint pain. While this doesn't automatically lead to performance increases, you'll end up lifting more weight over the course of your lifting career if you can keep your joints healthy.

Knee Sleeves Might Have Some of the Performance Benefits of Knee Wraps, But Not To the Same Degree

Lake et. al (2012) investigated the use of knee wraps vs. no knee wraps. They concluded that lifters who wear knee wraps produce 10% more peak power, on average, when they squat.

However, this doesn’t necessarily mean that knee sleeves can increase your squat performance by 10% because knee wraps and knee sleeves are much different.

Knee Sleeves May Increase a Lifter's Confidence Under Heavy Loads

Powerlifters say that they like the ‘tight feeling' of knee sleeves on their knees, which gives them more confidence when they get under a heavy weight.

Confidence is a hard thing to measure as it relates to your performance. But if you feel stronger under the barbell when wearing knee sleeves or knee braces, you'll be in a much better place mentally to lift heavier loads.

How To Measure For Knee Sleeves?

There are two main ways to measure for the best knee sleeves. Check the sizing guide of your sleeves to see which method relates to the specific ones you're buying.

1. Measure Around the Knee Cap

The first method is measuring around the knee cap and then using the sizing chart accordingly. This is how you measure the Titan Yellow Jacket Knee Sleeves and STrong Knee Sleeve by Mark Bell.

2. Measure around the top of the calf

The second method is measuring around the top of the calf. From the center of the knee cap, measure 10cm down. At this point, measure around your calf and use the sizing chart accordingly.

Keep in mind that many competitive powerlifters like to size down from the sizing chart based on their measurements because they want more compression around the knee.

Knee Sleeves Alternatives

Many alternatives to traditional knee sleeves are suitable for different needs. Some of the best knee compression sleeve alternatives include knee wraps, knee braces, leg sleeves, and compression pants, each of which offers different benefits and has unique functions.

Knee wraps are the most popular alternative to knee sleeves among powerlifters. They offer more stiffness and support than knee sleeves, which is ideal for heavy squats.

Knee wraps are made of elastic materials, which enables them to tighten on the downward phase of a squat or deadlift, where more support is needed. They can minimize stress on the joints and protect the muscles and tendons around the knees from injury.

Knee braces are used during rehabilitation after knee injuries. They keep the knee stable to speed up recovery while preventing further damage. Leg sleeves and compression pants offer more coverage and are also appropriate during the recovery period after knee injuries. Knee braces also aid blood flow and reduce the risk of blood clots forming in the legs when your movement is minimal.

Powerlifting Knee Sleeves: Frequently Asked Questions

These are the top questions I get when it comes to wearing knee sleeves for powerlifting.

What Are the Benefits of Wearing Knee Sleeves?

The benefit of wearing knee sleeves is to provide the knee joints with warmth and compression. This will improve blood flow and increase recovery times. As well, the added compression increases stability, which can help you lift more weight.

Are Knee Sleeves Worth It?

Knee sleeves are worth it if you have some strength training experience under your belt and want to take your lifting more seriously – for example, if you are starting to train with lower reps and heavier weights or on a powerlifting-specific program. They are also worth it if you are recovering from a knee injury and want to increase the stability of your knee joint.

When Should You Wear Knee Sleeves?

As a powerlifter, you should wear knee sleeves for most squat workouts. If you choose not to wear them, it would be because you have a light workout (below 60% of 1RM). Some powerlifters also like to wear knee sleeves for deadlifts and other lower body accessory movements.

Should Knee Sleeves Be Tight or Loose?

The knee sleeve should be tight enough that it stays in place on the knee cap, but you don’t have to continually readjust it throughout your workout. When your knee sleeve is in place, it should feel like a gentle hug around your leg. It should not feel like it's cutting off circulation to the lower part of your leg.

When you flex or bend your knee, you should feel some compression on the back of the leg.

Most competitive powerlifters like to have the knee sleeve as tight as possible without cutting off circulation. This might make the knee sleeve extremely hard to put on, but it's the preferred fit for lifting heavy weights.

Check out the differences between knee sleeves and knee wraps.

How Thick Should Your Knee Sleeves Be? (3mm vs. 5mm vs. 7mm)

Use the 7mm knee sleeve if you're a competitive powerlifter or lifting very heavy weights. Use the 5mm knee sleeve if you're a beginner powerlifter, just starting strength training, or want a more versatile sleeve. Use the 3mm knee sleeve if you want to wear it for non-lifting activities (running, hiking, etc.).

How To Put on Knee Sleeves?

Here is how to put on knee sleeves:

• Put the knee sleeve on over your calf
• Grab the bottom of the knee sleeve and slightly roll them up about 1-2 inches
• Grab the top and fold the knee sleeve all the way to the bottom
• Grab under the bottom portion of the sleeve and pull up as high on the kneecap as possible
• Then roll the top up, and the bottom down

This is the best video demonstrating how to put on a pair of tight knee sleeves:

Are Knee Sleeves Good for Your Knees?

A supportive knee sleeve is great for protecting the knee joint during exercise. It provides extra stability and can lower the injury risk when lifting heavy weights.

Are Thicker Knee Sleeves Better?

Generally, thicker knee sleeves that measure 7mm are better for powerlifting because they provide more stability and support under heavy loads. They also allow you to get more pop out of the bottom of a squat. Thinner knee sleeves are more appropriate for running or more dynamic exercises.

Do Knee Sleeves Prevent Injury?

Yes, the best knee sleeves can help prevent knee joint injuries during exercise. However, they will not protect you from every type of exercise-related injury, so you should still work out with proper form and technique.

Knee Sleeve Comparisons

• SBD vs STrong Knee Sleeves: Pros, Cons, Which Is Better?

Final Thoughts

There's no lack of choices regarding the best knee sleeves. When you consider your specific strength needs and your goals as a powerlifter, choosing the best knee sleeves for gym workouts becomes easier based on the list above.

If you're looking for knee wraps, check out my complete guide on the Best Knee Wraps For Squats.

References

Birmingham TB, Kramer JF, Inglis JT, Mooney CA, Murray LJ, Fowler PJ, and Kirkley S. Effect of a neoprene sleeve on knee joint position sense during sitting open kinetic chain and supine closed kinetic chain tests. Am J Sports Med 26: 562–566, 1998

Lake, J., Carden, P., Shorter, K. 2012. Wearing Knee Wraps Effects Mechanical Output and Performance Characteristics of Back Squat Exercise. Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research, 26(10), 2844-2849.

Church, J. B., Allen, T. N., & Allen, G. W. (2016). A Review of the Efficacy of Weight Training Aids. Strength and Conditioning Journal, 38(3), 11–17. 

Miletello WM, Beam JR, and Cooper ZC. A biomechanical analysis of the squat between competitive collegiate, competitive high school, and novice powerlifters. J Strength Cond 23: 1611– 1617, 2009