Best Knee Braces for Golf – Reviews 2023 (Updated)
If you are an avid golfer, chances are you’re no stranger to knee problems. The constant shifting of your weight and the twisting of your body can put great strain on your knees, making them more vulnerable to problems and injuries. For this problem, knee braces are an effective solution.
In this guide, we’re going to highlight the importance of wearing knee braces when playing golf. We are also going to put forth our pick for the 10 best knee braces for golf you can buy, based on our research and testing.
Read on to find out more in this ultimate guide!
Table of Contents
Importance of Knee Stabilization during Sports Activities
Knee stabilization is essential during sports activities to prevent injury and enhance performance. The knee joint is one of the largest and most complex joints in the body, and it is vulnerable to a wide range of injuries during sports activities. Some common knee injuries include ligament sprains, meniscus tears, and patellar tendonitis.
By stabilizing the knee joint, athletes can reduce their risk of knee injuries and improve their performance. Knee stabilization involves strengthening the muscles around the knee joint, improving the range of motion, and improving proprioception, which is the body’s ability to sense its position and movements in space.
Athletes who engage in high-impact sports such as basketball, golf, soccer, and football, are particularly at risk of knee injuries. Knee braces are typically used to keep the knees stable during these sports activities.
Why Might a Golfer Need a Knee Brace?
Golfers may need knee braces or knee sleeves for various reasons. Knee braces can provide support and stability to the knee joint, reduce pain and inflammation, and prevent further injury. Below are some reasons why a golfer might need a knee brace:
Knee pain. Golf involves a lot of walking, twisting, and turning, which can put stress on the knee joint. Golfers who experience knee pain due to arthritis, tendonitis, or other knee conditions may benefit from wearing a knee brace to reduce pain and inflammation.
Knee instability. Golfers who have had knee injuries such as ligament sprains or meniscus tears may experience knee instability, which can affect their swing and overall performance. A knee brace can help stabilize the knee joint and prevent further injury.
Post-surgery. Golfers who have undergone knee surgery such as ACL reconstruction may need a knee brace during their recovery period. A knee brace can provide support and protection to the knee joint, allowing the golfer to return to the course sooner.
As a precautionary measure. Some golfers may wear a knee brace as a precautionary measure to prevent knee injuries. This is especially true for golfers who have a history of knee injuries or are at a higher risk of knee injuries due to their age, weight, or physical condition.
Different Types of Knee Braces for Golf
There are several types of knee braces available for golfers, each designed to provide different levels of support and protection to the knee joint. Here are some of the most common types:
Compression sleeves. A compression sleeve is a lightweight, flexible brace that provides compression to the knee joint, helping to reduce pain and inflammation. It is ideal for golfers who experience mild knee pain or stiffness.
Knee straps. A knee strap is a simple, adjustable brace that wraps around the knee joint, providing targeted support to the patellar tendon. It is ideal for golfers who experience pain in the front of the knee due to conditions such as patellar tendonitis.
Hinged knee braces. A hinged knee brace has metal or plastic hinges that provide additional support and stability to the knee joint. It is ideal for golfers who have had knee surgery or experience knee instability due to a ligament sprain or tear.
Custom braces. A custom brace is a knee brace that is custom-made for the golfer’s specific knee size and shape. It provides the highest level of support and protection and is ideal for golfers who have had knee surgery or experience chronic knee pain or instability.
Below, we’ll look at the features of the 10 best golfing knee braces in our opinion. We’ll mention their prices and list down the pros and cons of buying them.
This knee brace by CopperJoint is an excellent one that we highly recommend. It is available in a variety of sizes ranging from Small to XX-Large on Amazon and is very affordable, with prices ranging from $17.53 to $19.53. Overall, it offers great value for the money.
Pros
affordable price
range of sizes available
gentle compression
allows a greater range of movement
provides exceptional stability
Cons
might be too tight for some people
Comfort
While this knee brace from CopperJoint might not offer the best comfort out of all the products on this list, it does offer exceptional support and stability. We found that the brace can be too tight for some people which reduces comfort.
Durability
This brace is designed using copper-infused nylon. This makes it quite durable and long-lasting.
The EzyFit Knee Brace Support is one of the best knee braces you can buy for golfing. It stands out from other similar products due to the combination of protection and comfort it offers. This makes it suitable for those who want their knee joints to remain protected and stable during demanding physical activities.
Pros
excellent support and protection
open patella
non-slip straps
offers great comfort
anti-bacterial material
Cons
the range of motion might be a bit limited compared to other similar products
the straps can lose their grip with extended use
Comfort
Due to the brace’s open-patella design, it offers excellent comfort and stability. Moreover, the silicon non-slip straps ensure your knee remains securely in place.
Durability
In addition to being comfortable, the EzyFit brace support is also very durable. This is due to the materials it’s made of, which include polyester, neoprene, and nylon.
The PaceTag Knee Support is a great knee brace for golfers for several reasons. It provides much-needed support to your knees, prevents any injuries to them, and helps reduce pain. In addition to that, its low price makes it a great buy.
Pros
adjustable straps
perfect for those who frequently engage in outdoor activities
made from high-quality nylon that is breathable and washable
low price tag
Cons
knee might feel hot especially if worn for long periods
Comfort
The PaceTag Knee Support scores top marks when it comes to comfort and stability. This is mostly due to its open-patella design which helps lower pressure on the kneecaps while enabling a better range of movement.
Durability
Since the PaceTag Knee Support is made from nylon and polyester, it is very durable and the material is quite high-quality.
Here is another knee sleeve from CopperJoint on our list. This one comes with a Velcro strap and is also available in many sizes from Small to XX-Large. The B09NQQFG1Y is similar to the previously-mentioned B00Q9PS016 in most respects (including material and design) but has a strap and a slightly different look.
Pros
affordable price
range of sizes available
gentle compression
allows a greater range of movement
provides exceptional stability
adjustable strap
Cons
the sizes aren’t consistent sometimes
Comfort
The B09NQQFG1Y is similar to the B00Q9PS016 when it comes to stability and protection but it has an adjustable strap which provides greater comfort since the compression level can be adjusted.
Durability
Like the B00Q9PS016, the B09NQQFG1Y knee brace is quite durable since it is manufactured from copper-infused nylon.
This knee sleeve by Crucial Compression is a highly-rated knee brace on Amazon that has the “Amazon’s Choice” badge for the “Knee Braces by Crucial Compression” category. It has a large number of 5-star reviews and we highly recommend it as well. It is lightweight and breathable, offers great comfort and support, and is very reasonably priced.
Pros
fits perfectly
offers great comfort and support
lightweight and breathable
has a non-slip grip
affordable price
ergonomic design
available in multiple sizes
Cons
sizes are not consistent, issues with the size chart
Comfort
One of the reasons we recommend this knee brace for golf is the comfort and fit it offers. It fits most people just well and offers optimal comfort due to the ergonomic design and breathable material.
Durability
This sleeve scores top marks in durability as well. It is manufactured from high-quality nylon, spandex, and rubber.
This knee compression sleeve from UFlex Athletics is yet another great knee brace for golf we highly recommend. It is specially designed for sports and enables faster muscle recovery and reduced pressure on the kneecaps.
Pros
non-slip
faster muscle recovery
good for ligament injuries, arthritis, tendonitis, and other injuries
has great ventilation
available in several sizes
Cons
quality of the knee brace might not be consistent
Comfort
This knee brace from UFlex Athletics is created using 3-D knitting technology from nylon, latex, and spandex. This means it offers greater comfort than many other knee braces.
Durability
UFlex Athletics is known for producing high-quality, durable products. This knee brace from the brand is no different and is highly durable.
OrthoSleeve produces compression sleeves, compression socks, and knee braces among other items. Their Orthopedic Brace is a compression sleeve designed to treat conditions like arthritis and tendinitis. It offers a compression level of 20 mmHg and is perfect for golfing. Moreover, it is available in a variety of sizes and offers great value for its price overall.
Pros
provides medical-grade compression for conditions like arthritis and tendonitis
provides relief from a range of medical conditions
lightweight design
available in several sizes
Cons
sizes aren’t always consistent
might not fit well in some cases
Comfort
While there might be some problems with the sizes and fitting of the Orthopedic Brace, it does offer exceptional comfort and support. It is made from soft nylon and has a lightweight design that ensures even greater comfort.
Durability
Like many other knee braces on this list, OrthoSleeve’s ortho knee brace is made primarily from nylon, so it is very durable.
Bauerfeind’s sports knee support is one of the best knee braces for golf you can buy, in our opinion, if budget isn’t an issue. It is available in 3 colors and 6 sizes on Amazon and costs about $90. While this knee brace is the most expensive one on our list, we think it offers good value for the money given its features.
Pros
available in multiple sizes and colors
comfortable and breathable material
high-quality German design
provides targeted relief
enables a greater range of movement
specifically designed for sports
Cons
price is too high compared to other similar products
quality issues in some cases
Comfort
The Bauerfeind Sports Knee Support provides optimal comfort and stability, keeping your knee secure and stable during any type of sports activity. The design features an anatomically contoured pad that fully surrounds your kneecap.
Durability
This knee brace is made from air-knit fabric and is quite durable. However, many buyers have reported issues with durability, saying the brace fell apart or got worn out after little use.
9. Mueller Sports Medicine Self Adjusting Adult Knee Support Braces
This knee support brace by Mueller has been specifically designed for sports such as basketball and golf. Mueller is a trusted brand in the sports medicine category and has been manufacturing high-quality products for decades. This knee brace provides much-needed support to weak or injured knees and prevents them from moving laterally (side to side). To provide greater stability, the brace features flexible springs that stabilize and control your knee’s motion.
Pros
designed for sports
provides exceptional stability
made by a trusted and reliable brand
great value for money
Cons
only comes in one size that doesn’t fit everybody well
Comfort
Mueller’s knee brace provides excellent comfort and support. It features an open-back design and the material has been treated to resist odors. Moreover, it has self-adjusting straps that provide optimal compression.
Durability
The brace is made from neoprene, nylon, polyester, and natural rubber. Due to this reason, it is quite durable and can last a long time even with extensive use.
RiptGear’s knee compression sleeve is available on Amazon in a variety of sizes and colors. We rank it among the best knee braces for golf out there due to the level of comfort and stability it offers. Since it is designed for sports and other physical activities, it is perfect for golfers who need support and protection for their knees.
Pros
available in multiple sizes and colors
provides pain relief for several medical conditions
designed for sports
provides optimal compression and support
Cons
problems with fitting in some cases
Comfort
This knee brace is very comfortable since it offers just the right level of compression and doesn’t irritate the skin. Moreover, the material is light and breathable.
Durability
RiptGear’s knee sleeve scores top marks in durability as well. It is made from nylon, spandex, and rubber and is highly durable.
Best Golf Knee Brace: The Verdict
To sum up the list, we’re giving our final verdict on what we think is the best knee brace for golf in different categories:
Here are some important considerations to keep in mind when buying a knee brace for golf:
Type of knee brace. As mentioned earlier, there are several types of knee braces available for golfers. Consider the type of brace that will provide the best support and protection for your specific knee condition.
Fit. A knee brace that is too loose or too tight can cause discomfort and even worsen the knee condition. Consider the size, shape, and adjustability of the brace to ensure a comfortable and snug fit.
Comfort. Comfort is key when choosing a knee brace. Look for a brace that is made of breathable and moisture-wicking materials that will keep you comfortable during long rounds of golf.
Level of support. Consider the level of support that you need. If you have had knee surgery or experience knee instability, you may need a brace with more support and stability.
Range of motion: A knee brace that restricts your range of motion can affect your golf swing and overall performance. Consider a brace that allows for a full range of motion while still providing support and protection.
Durability. Look for a knee brace that is made of high-quality materials and is durable enough to withstand the rigors of golf.
Characteristics of a Good Knee Brace for Playing Golf
A good knee brace for playing golf should have all the characteristics that we mentioned in the previous section. It should:
fit well (shouldn’t be too tight or too loose)
be comfortable (lightweight, breathable, and skin-friendly material)
provide adequate support based on your needs
provide a good range of motion to enable you to perform well
be durable
Who Golf Knee Braces Aren’t For
While golf knee braces can be beneficial for many golfers, there are some situations where knee braces may not be suitable. Here are some such examples:
People without knee injuries. If you do not have a knee injury or chronic knee condition, you may not need to wear a knee brace for golf. Knee braces are designed to provide support and protection to injured or unstable knees, so if your knees are healthy and stable, a knee brace may not be necessary.
Those with severe knee injuries. If you have a severe knee injury, such as a torn ligament or fracture, a knee brace alone may not provide enough support to protect your knee during golf. In such cases, surgery or other medical interventions may be necessary.
Those with skin sensitivities. Some people may have skin sensitivities to the materials used in knee braces, which can cause irritation or rashes. If you have sensitive skin, you may need to choose a knee brace made from hypoallergenic materials or consult with your doctor before using a knee brace.
People with certain medical conditions. Certain medical conditions such as circulation problems, diabetes, or peripheral neuropathy may affect the use of knee braces. Consult with a healthcare professional before using a knee brace if you have any medical conditions that may affect your use of a knee brace
Final Thoughts
In this guide, we explained in detail what knee braces for golf are and why they are used by many golfers. More importantly, we listed down the 10 best knee braces for golf and went over their features and pros and cons in detail.
Thank you for reading this guide and we hope you found it helpful and insightful! We are confident you now have all the information you need to pick the best knee brace for golf for yourself.
FAQs
Can you play golf with a knee brace on?
Yes, certainly! Many golfers with knee injuries or chronic knee conditions wear knee braces to provide support and reduce pain while playing golf.
What brand of knee braces do NFL players use?
While NFL players wear knee braces from several different brands, the top choice among them is DonJoy Defiance’s custom knee braces.
Is golf hard on your knees?
Golf is generally considered a low-impact sport that is not particularly hard on the knees compared to high-impact sports like running or basketball. However, golf does involve a lot of walking, standing, and twisting, which can put some stress on the knees, particularly if a golfer has an underlying knee condition or injury.
Unlike other compression knee sleeves, this copper knee compression sleeve provides superior comfort and support. You'll never feel like they're too tight, too big, or uncomfortable. This high-performance knee support for knee pain gives the stability you need.
Performance Fabric Like No Other - This knee support sleeve features a durable and breathable fabric packed with the healing benefits of genuine copper. An ideal running knee support or workout knee sleeves, its elastic fastener strap makes the difference.
Recovery and Pain Relief Support - In need of knee sleeve for arthritis, orthopedic knee sleeve, or volleyball, weightlifting, or basketball knee support? CopperJoint's knee compression sleeves aid with joint and muscle recovery and relief from pain and discomfort.
POWER OF COPPER: Our compression knee sleeve for women and men is infused with copper ions. The copper-infused nylon helps pull excess electricity from your joints and muscles to help minimize and manage pain.
GENUINE COPPER IONS: Our products utilize genuine copper ions rather than copper oxide which is not as effective. This helps ensure that our meniscus knee support gives you fast relief from pain and a speedy recovery from injury.
GEL PADS & STABILIZERS: Each copper knee sleeve features a patella gel pad and side stabilizers for extra support. They help keep your knee stable during activities such as walking. This allows you to go about your day pain-free.
Note: Please check the size chart in the picture and choose the size that suits you. If you do not know how to measure please feel free to contact customer service.This product contains a small amount of latex. If you are allergic to latex/silicone, please do not use it.
High-quality fabric: Copper knee braces are made of 3D knitted fabrics, and copper ions are implanted in nylon through blending, so that it has better deodorization, cushioning, decompression, dispersing knee pressure, promoting blood circulation, and protecting knees from injury while stabilizing Support the knee, Moisture wicking, keep the knee warm and reduce stiffness.
Powerful Protection: Knee sleeve can not only protect the knees in sports such as running, cycling, hiking, basketball, football, volleyball, golf, tennis and skiing. It can also be worn at work and when walking the dog to reduce pressure on the knees. Enjoy the joy of life!
Each package contains 1 Copper Fit ICE Knee Compression Sleeve Infused with Menthol, Large/X-Large
Copper Fit ICE incorporates the cooling sensation of menthol into a patented micro-encapsulation technology.
Make sure to order the right size - measure the circumference of your knee cap in a standing position: 12"-16" S/M, 16"-20" L/XL, 20"-22" 2XL, 22"-24" 3XL
✅ UNLOADER & STABILIZATION: Designed for reducing knee pain caused by unicompartmental osteoarthritis of the knee and often helps delay the need for surgery. The OA Unloader Knee Brace is perfect for reducing knee pressure and unloading pressure off the knee joint. This offloading knee brace is perfect in the recovery of medial and lateral chronic knee instability.
✅ SUPERIOR REHABILITATION Knee Support to Reduce knee Pain & Knee Inflammation: The OA Knee Brace helps reduce pain in patients who suffer from Rheumatoid Arthritis Knee Pain, Mild to severe unicompartmental Osteoarthritis of the knee, bone on bone knee pain. The knee brace also helps support meniscal cartilage derangement, articular cartilage defect repair, and Avascular necrosis or tibial plateau fracture recovery, and knee cartilage repair.
✅ ADJUSTABLE DESIGN Improves Knee Mobility and Movement: This knee brace limits the knee joint's side movement, ensuring it stays aligned for more comfortable and pain-free mobility. It is designed to offer Valgus / Varus adjustment correction and can be used as a bowed knee brace for knock knees and offers superior knee rehabilitation from most injuries and preventing re-injuries.
