Buy Knee Sleeves? Tips to choose the right ones and the pros and cons

What are Knee Sleeves?

To clarify: Knee Sleeves are not the same as knee braces.

A Knee Sleeve provides support (for strength training), but does not function the same way as a knee brace. Knee braces are designed and used to protect a previous injury from further harm. Knee Sleeves are designed to protect the knee from future injury or the risk of damage during heavy lifting. Knee Sleeves add compression that increases blood flow and reduces pain, not only during but also after the performance (strength training, e.g. Squats).

The reason this compression aspect is so important is that a compressed knee stimulates blood flow through the blood vessels of the knee, keeping the knees and joints warm. Simply put, using Knee Sleeves results in less pain and swelling during and after heavy strength training. Knee Sleeves are generally made of neoprene and can be slipped over the knee.

What should you look for when buying Knee Sleeves?

• What are Knee Sleeves?
• When ‘should’ you use Knee Sleeves?
• Different types of Knee Sleeves
• Advantages and disadvantages of Knee Sleeves
• How can you wash your Knee Sleeves?

When 'should' you use Knee Sleeves?

By lifting heavier and heavier (which is probably the case if you are a serious lifter reading this), the kneecap literally wears down on itself. This is often the cause of progressive tendinitis.

We encourage the use of Knee Sleeves if you lift heavy and, more importantly, keep lifting heavier and thus make progress, lifting heavier over time.

By using Knee Sleeves you train more safely and have less chance of future injuries. If you are relatively new to the gym and do NOT yet have full control of your form and are not INTENSELY strong yet, it might be a good idea to focus on getting stronger first (of course always with good form) before purchasing Knee Sleeves.

Different types of Knee Sleeves

Knee Sleeves come in three different types. The 3mm / 5mm and 7mm, which one you should use depends on your goals.

• 3mm: For endurance sports The 3 mm knee sleeves are suitable for people who train endurance and long distances. They are lighter and perfect if you want to wear as light material as possible, these sleeves are NOT ideal for heavy strength training.
• 5mm: For mixed activity The 5mm knee sleeves offer benefits for the athlete in more than one training style. A general knee protector that can be used for all types of activities and gives you extra support in any training style you are doing at that moment.
• 7mm: For shorter, heavier activities The 7mm knee sleeves provide powerful stabilization for heavy strength training and extra support during rehabilitation. The 7mm Knee Sleeves are most often used for Strongman / Bodybuilding and Powerlifting.

Advantages and disadvantages of Knee Sleeves

Benefits:

They increase blood flow and compression, which helps reduce the buildup of lactic acid in the muscles, which in turn can help with faster muscle recovery. Increased blood flow also means more oxygen to the muscles, which is necessary for proper function. As mentioned above, the support from the knee sleeves can help you prevent future injuries.

Disadvantages:

Because they need to fit quite tightly, they can cause skin irritation in some people. Increases the risk of injury. Yes, you read that right, when wearing knee sleeves people feel safer and therefore lift even heavier weights. If your form is not good, this can increase the risk of injury.

How should you wash your Knee Sleeves?

Take care of them, really. It's not just about washing; turn them inside out after each use and let them air dry, this prevents bacteria from sticking to the sleeves. (you don't want that) Use a mild shampoo once a month (probably once a week if used daily). Be careful not to choose a shampoo with too many chemicals, this way you can extend their lifespan.

Knee Sleeves from Thor Athletics

• 7mm Thick Neoprene
• 30cm at the front and 26cm at the back.
• Elastic trim for extra firmness and durability.

We hope this brings you some clarity about the Knee Sleeves. If you have any questions, please leave a comment below. You can also always email us or fill in the contact form and I will get back to you as soon as possible.

In the following article, we will talk about the Wrist Wraps if you want to read about them. If you are interested in our Knee Sleeves, click the link below. https://thorathletics.nl/collections/knee-sleeves-collectie/products/beste-knee-sleeves-thor-athletics