Knee Sleeves were designed to offer modest compression to the knee joint in order to keep it warm and safe. Obviously, they can’t stop you from doing something stupid like squatting 150kg without any warm-up sets. The majority of knee sleeves for lifting are constructed of neoprene. However, you can get various materials. I definitely recommend knee sleeves regardless of your lifting ambitions.
WHAT IS THE DISTINCTION BETWEEN A KNEE SLEEVE AND A KNEE BRACE?
Between knee braces & knee sleeves for weightlifting, there is a significant distinction to be made. The knee brace’s protective padding is designed to shield the anterior (front) knee & patella, as well as provide ligament support. Knee sleeves do the same thing, but only to a limited extent.
If you have an unsteady knee and are trying to fix or stabilize it using a knee sleeve, it is unlikely to succeed. If you have severe knee pain or movement concerns, you should see your doctor or an orthopedic surgeon and have the problem investigated further. Generally, knee braces are used after an injury.
THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN KNEE WRAPS AND KNEE SLEEVES
Knee wraps may or may not be common in your gym. Knee wraps are less popular than knee sleeves since they are more obtrusive and have a limited application for most weight lifters.
STEPS TO MEASURE KNEE SLEEVES
- Get your measuring tape
Something that can readily wrap around your leg and measures in inches or centimeters.
- Bend the leg at a 30-degree angle
Knee sleeves are made to accommodate your leg while standing upright and squatting. At around a 30° angle, measure the size of the leg somewhere in the middle.
- Take a measurement of the circumference of your leg about 4″ below the kneecap
The best knee sleeves for squats are made to fit over the knee joint and the muscles that surround it, such as the calf, quad, and hamstring. To acquire the most accurate measurement, measure the circumference of your calf at the top. That’s about 4″ below your kneecap’s midway.
WHAT IF I’M IN THE MIDDLE OF A KNEE SLEEVE SIZING?
When in doubt about their size, most people opt for the smaller size. Knee sleeves are always tighter at first, but as you get used to them, they ease up. To ensure appropriate support during hard lifts, it’s always preferable to come down on the side of stepping down a size when checking for knee sleeves.
WHICH IS BETTER: 5MM OR 7MM?
Knee sleeves come in two different thicknesses: 5mm and 7mm. Each is made for a certain purpose:
5mm — it’s for WODs as it gives support while keeping agility. The 5mm knee sleeves are made of a thinner material that is best suited to dynamic motions. It is the way to go if you want to add some stability while focusing on your daily WOD.
7mm – thicker protection for heavier lifting and shorter distances. The 7mm might be the ideal choice if your main objective is to protect your joints while pushing for strong Olympic lift PRs.
In conclusion, wearing knee sleeves carries no danger and offers a lot of benefits. You can squat more weight, in a safer manner, with greater form, and yet look fit. Plus, the chance to avoid injury is the most important benefit of all!
