13 Best Knee Braces For Skiing + A Buying Guide – 2024
Prevent yourself from injuries and stay safe while skiing with these lightweight knee braces.
Dominion Ezechibueze has been in the health and wellness industry for 7 years. He began his personal training career as a junior in high school and has been excelling ever since. He studied Communications and played division one football at Towson University.
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Experience: 5 yearsAditi Naskar has a postgraduate degree in English literature from Presidency University, Kolkata, a bachelor’s degree in education from WBUTTEPA, Kolkata, and a diploma in health and wellness. She is an associate commerce editor with 5 years of experience and specializes in reviewing fitness and health products.
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Experience: 5 yearsMedha Deb is a commerce editor with a master's degree in applied linguistics from the University of Hyderabad, which has allowed her to develop a deep understanding of language and its application in various contexts. She specializes in the areas of beauty, health, and wellness and is committed to ensuring that the content on the website is of the highest quality.
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Experience: 3 yearsRajeshwari is a dedicated fitness and lifestyle enthusiast, deeply committed to enhancing our readers’ well-being and vitality. She has a master’s degree in Journalism & Mass Communication from the University of Calcutta.
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For so many of us, the sight of snow always calls out to pack our trusty skis and head straight to the slopes. As exhilarating and magical as this time of the year is, it’s essential to keep safety and precaution at the forefront. Equipping yourself with the best knee braces for skiing can prevent you from accidentally injuring your knee, which is a rather vulnerable part of your body in the snow. A knee brace can safeguard existing ski injuries while preventing new ones from occurring.
If you aren’t sure how or where to start looking, we have the top 13 recommendations for you right here. Take a look and stay safe out there!
In This Article
Top 13 Knee Braces For Skiing
Physix Gear Knee Support Brace
The Physix Gear Knee Support Brace is made of four-way stretch breathable nylon and lycra fabric, providing complete support when you are in motion. It is super lightweight and can be worn under jeans. The stabilizer ensures that your knees stay warm. This brace is recommended for the treatment of MCL, ACL, arthritis, and meniscus tear. It is suitable for resistance exercises and perfect for skiers who do not like bulky traditional braces. According to reviews, it has a non-slip silicone grip wave that prevents it from shifting during movement.
- Easy to pull on and off
- Four-way stretch fabric
- Breathable
- Good for ACL injuries
- Good for MCL injuries
- Keeps joints warm
- Provides pain relief
- Non-slip grip
- Lightweight
- Available in 3 colors
- May cause rashes
Caution
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
This product is so liked by shoppers that it has gained over 25,618 great reviews on Amazon.
Bodyprox Knee Brace
The Bodyprox Knee Brace is made of 63% SBR, 32% nylon, and 5% spandex. It is one size fits all and has flexible stabilizers to relieve pressure and reduce stress on the joints. It features springs on two sides, a patella support strap, and a silicone pad for added comfort during motion. The two velcro straps allow you to adjust the knee brace according to your size. This knee brace is highly absorbent and breathable. Its neoprene material makes skin-to-skin contact comfortable and prevents rashes. Direct feedback from users reflects that the inner sweat absorption feature of this brace keeps your knee dry and sweat-free.
- Universal fit
- Comes with side stabilizers and patella gel pads
- Highly absorbent
- Breathable
- Prevents rashes
- Not durable
- The velcro straps are flimsy
Quick TipTechWare Pro Knee Brace
The TECHWARE Pro Knee Brace is super versatile and suitable for squats, football, weightlifting, golf, cross-fit, tennis hockey, dance, cycling, hiking, wrestling, yoga, basketball, baseball, gymnastics, volleyball, running, skateboarding, jogging, and martial arts. It relieves knee issues like arthritis, tears, bursitis, and tendonitis. This tested knee brace has four flexible spring stabilizers and alternating closures to provide even support on both sides. The gel pad prevents knee pain and knee injuries by reducing swelling and inflammation. The lightweight neoprene makes it breathable, and the non-slip silicone strips ensure it stays in place all day. This knee brace comes with an open patella design that provides support and compression around the tendon and kneecap areas.
- Lightweight
- Non-slip silicone strips
- Breathable
- Alternating hook and loops
- Versatile
- Might get stretched
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
More than 19,795 rave reviews on Amazon prove why we are so in awe of this product.
Physix Gear Knee Support Brace | Bodyprox Knee Brace | TechWare Pro Knee Brace | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Material | Nylon | - | Neoprene |
| Color | Black/Pink (Single) | - | Black |
| Weight | 0.1 Kilograms | - | 0.3 Pounds |
| Dimensions LxWxH | 10.83 x 7.28 x 10.83 inches | - | - |
| Rating | |||
| Reviews | 25,618 | 34,966 | 19,795 |
| Price | $8.62 | $15.99 | $17.84 |
The Shock Doctor Hinged Knee Brace features convenient finger tabs for an easy-grip pull when you are putting it on and taking it off. The finger tabs also provide your legs space to breathe when you are skiing. Its dual-hinge feature keeps the knee brace in position and provides maximum protection and support all day long. Many reviewers agree that this latex-free knee brace helps with minor ligament sprains, hypertension, minor patella instability, meniscus injuries, and arthritis. It has airflow vented tech that reduces odor, bacteria, and moisture, providing comfort throughout your activity. The bilateral dual hinges provide support, while the four-way stretch lycra mesh provides mobility. “This is a really significant feature that should be highlighted. This capability of movement further aids any existing knee limitations in all its ranges of motion,” says Dominion Ezechibueze, Mobility & Injury Prevention specialist.
- Prevents bacteria, moisture, and odor
- Latex-free
- Breathable
- X-fit strap system
- Bilateral dual hinges
- Not durable
The Neo G Knee Brace is made of heated therapeutic neoprene that helps warm muscles and joints. It is recommended by doctors and physical therapists for weak knees, knee joint pain, sprain, arthritis, and strain. It allows flexibility, and the compression system ensures smooth blood flow. It is stabilized with an adjustable side to ensure the perfect fit. The open patella design and stitched buttress provide added support for patella tracking, eliminating glide and twisting at the knee.
- Medical-grade
- One size fits all
- Durable
None
The Exous BODYGEAR Knee Brace Support Protector has a four-way strap system, and four adjustable anchor points. These points protect your knees when in motion – from walking to skiing. This knee brace has two sides of stabilizers and patella support for both lower and upper patella tendons. The inner portion is made of jacquard lycra that is smooth on your skin, and the 0.5″ comfort gap provides ventilation and prevents itching and irritation. Its double flexible metal coils provide stability to the inside and outside of the knee. This video detailing a reviewer’s experience with this brace will help you understand how to use it.
- Non-slip fit
- Wide range of motion
- Breathable
- The velcro strap is not durable.
The McDavid Knee Brace provides knee support, flexibility, and comfort. This skiing brace has a lightweight hinge with wide, cushioned arms that help maintain strength and prevent injuries like hyperextension. The latex-free neoprene provides superior stretch, maximum heat insulation, and long-lasting support. Its bound edges and articulated steel hinge prevent skin irritation or abrasion. Many reviewers have testified that the engineered straps ensure a perfect fit, and the open 360˚ padded buttress supports the patella. It also provides moderate medial and lateral support for improving stability.
- Lightweight
- Breathable
- Articulated steel hinge
- Prevents irritation and abrasion
- Latex-free
- Long-lasting
- Tight
The Bauerfeind Sports Knee Support provides compression and protects against knee strain during high-intensity sporting activities. It has a contoured pad surrounding the kneecap that disperses pressure. The knitted fabric and pad massage the connective tissues and muscles during movement. Its two pressure points and lateral wings provide targeted stimuli that cause positive sensory-motor feedback. The stabilizing muscles get activated and improve joint stability. This effect reduces stress on the joints and lessens the risk of injury. The air knit fabric is moisture-wicking, lightweight, comfortable, breathable, and washable. This knee brace is also suitable for football, tennis, weight training, soccer, baseball, basketball, running, and lacrosse.
- Lightweight
- Easy to wash
- Breathable
- Provides targeted massage
- Has moisture-wicking properties
- Expensive
The McDavid 429X Knee Brace has bilateral geared polycentric hinges for free movement and stability and elastic support for maximum compression. The latex-free neoprene uses thermal compression and keeps your tendons and muscles warm. As per reviews, this knee brace features elastic crossing straps that provide rotational and collateral ligament support. The open 360˚ padded buttress isolates and supports the knee patella, while the bound edges prevent skin chafing. Its perforated back panel manages heat and moisture, providing all-round comfort. The reinforced pull-tabs enable easy pull-on or take off, and the mesh netting prevents hinge migration.
- Latex-free
- Easy pull-on or take off
- Bilateral geared polycentric hinges
- Prevents hinge migration
None
The Shock Doctor 870 Knee Brace has convenient finger tabs for easy grip and pull. These also give your legs ample space to breathe while skiing. The dual-hinge feature ensures that it stays in position all day long. Reviewers love this knee brace as it provides moderate support for strains and sprains during recovery! It also helps to heal issues like minor patella instability, medial/lateral instability, meniscus injuries, and minor ligament sprains. This product is made of four-way stretch lycra mesh for flex ventilation and offers latex-free patella support. Its airflow vented neoprene offers moisture-wicking compression for healing and therapeutic warmth. The pre-curved anatomical design and integrated, flexible side stabilizer provide enhanced fit, impact resistance, comfort, and support.
- Latex-free
- Breathable
- Moisture-wicking
- Integrated flexible side stabilizers
None
Modvel Knee Compression Sleeve
The breathable Modvel Knee Compression Sleeve is an ideal product to get relief from and prevent knee pain. It offers a 4-way compression system that offers 360-degree protection. Used by professional athletes and athletic trainers, this knee sleeve is ideal for CrossFit, running, doing yoga, hiking, joint pain, climbing stairs, or driving. This sleeve comes with an ergonomic design and is made of washable material. It provides support for arthritis pain and joint stiffness.
- Anti-slip features
- Unisex
- Snug fit
- Easy-to-use
- Size
DonJoy Performance Bionic Knee Brace
The Donjoy’s Performance Bionic Knee Brace has bilateral polycentric hinges with hyperextension stops that support the knee and prevent instability. The top and bottom stretch webbing closure have TPR pull tabs that provide a perfect fit. Its wrap-around design makes it very easy to put on and take off. As per the user insights, the anti-migration feature prevents slips, and the perforated neoprene enables maximum breathability. This knee brace has reflectivity that enables better visibility in low light conditions.
- Value for money
- Bilateral polycentric hinges
- Breathable
- Reflective
- Gets stretched out
- Flimsy velcro straps
The EXOUS BODYGEAR Knee Sleeve is extremely comfortable and stays in place all day long. It prevents chafing of the skin, as the inner portion is made of jacquard lycra. This knee brace has a four-way compression system, side stabilizers, and a built-in comfort gap to provide non-slip, stabilized knee support. It relieves knee pain and protects the patella tendon and knee cap from injuries.
This knee brace has 7mm thick SCR neoprene over standard SBR neoprene, which provides superior support, perfect fit, and warmth around the knee joint. As per reviews, its sleeves are longer than generic knee braces, which ensures more coverage around the knee joints, patella, and ligaments.
- Non-slip fit
- Breathable comfort gap
- Available in all sizes
- 12-month money-back warranty
None
How To Choose The Best Ski Knee Brace – Buying Guide
- Type
There are several types of knee braces, designed to either prevent or heal injuries or joint issues. Here is a list of the knee braces types:
- Support Braces: These braces wrap your knees from all sides and provide adjustable support.
- Rehabilitative: They provide rehabilitation after surgery and help control the knee movement.
- Prophylactic Braces: These are specifically designed to heal sports injuries and prevent further damage.
- Knee Sleeves: These are basic types that provide generic protection and comfort.
- Functional: These are recommended by doctors for protection against sports injury and post-surgery recovery.
- Stabilizers Braces: They have steel strings for specific knee issues or injuries and provide exclusive support.
- Unloaders: These are recommended for osteoarthritis, arthritis, and other knee issues.
- Style
Most people get confused whether to get knee sleeves or traditional knee braces. People want knee sleeves because of their lightness, but they also seek the sturdiness provided by a traditional knee brace. Luckily, there are a few knee braces that have the best of both designs.
There are two styles of knee braces. The sleeve type slides on the knee by opening and stretching over your foot. The wrap-around type can be used either from the front or the back. It offers superior support and is better for injuries.
- Open Vs. Closed Patella
The closed patella design provides greater support to the knee caps. Open patella braces provide the same pressure but have more breathability and prevent sweating or skin irritation.
- Size
Be careful about the measurement of your brace to get the perfect fit. Knee braces that are too tight or too loose can make your injuries worse. Be aware of the measurement information before purchasing a product as the sizes vary with the brand.
- Slip-On Vs. Wrap Around
Be it for men or for women, there are only two types of braces – slip-on and wrap-around. Slip-ons usually come in sizes ranging from small and medium to large. Wrap-around braces are often used as prescription solutions for knee issues. Hence, make sure you consult a specialist before going for this type.
Skiers often get minor knee injuries. If skiing is your hobby, invest in a good knee brace. Order the best-suited knee brace from our list and enjoy the slopes safely!
Infographic: Points To Keep In Mind When Buying Knee Braces For Skiing
You can surely never tame a ski enthusiast or keep them away from frosty mountains, but you can ensure their safety. Do not forget to invest in a pair of good knee braces to prevent unwanted injuries. Check out the infographic below and for a few pointers you should know before buying your next set of ski knee braces.
Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team
The Bottom Line
Skiing is a magical experience. However, it would be best to gear up for it to enjoy to the fullest because any small mishap may ruin your enjoyment. Investing in the right knee braces that protect your old injury (if you have any) and prevent the occurrence of new ones is a wise decision. Some of the ones that we have listed are easy to use and crafted with breathable material. For instance, the Physix Gear Knee Support Brace offers adjustable compression and is easy to wear while the TechWare Pro Knee Brace offers enhanced knee support and stability. In addition, the DonJoy Performance Bionic Knee Brace offers breathability and protection through hinges and straps. They are also lightweight and anti-skid to provide you with a better experience out in the snow.
Why Trust StyleCraze?
Aditi Naskar, the author, has a diploma in health and wellness. She loves writing about fitness and recommends the most useful products for her readers. For this article, she thoroughly researched the knee braces for skiing and read hundreds of online reviews to narrow down the best products. Her carefully curated list features knee braces that are lightweight, offer highly absorbent, and durable.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do knee braces help with all knee problems?
Knee braces are orthotic devices that help your body function normally. They help with most knee issues, but not all. If you have a knee injury or issue, consult a doctor before purchasing a knee brace.
How do I strengthen my knees for skiing?
Here are a few easy exercises that will help strengthen your knees for skiing.
Lateral Box Jumps: Stand next to a 20-inch box. Lower your body into a squat position, as you would on a ski slope preparing to jump. Jump on the box. Land softly without stressing the knees. Repeat 5 to 10 times.
Straight Leg Raises: Lie on your back. Bend one knee while keeping the other leg straight. Raise the straight leg to the same height as the other knee. Repeat 15 times.
Wall Sits: Stand against a wall with your back flat. Walk away from the wall and bend your waist to lower your body until your knees are at 90°. Hold the position for 30 seconds. Repeat a couple of times. This exercise strengthens your quads,, which play a very important role in preventing knee injuries. Weak quads can cause massive strain and damage to your knees.
Calf Raises: Hold on to a table, sturdy wall bar, or other support to help you get balance. Raise your heels slowly as much as you can, and then lower them. Repeat this 15 to 20 times.
Deep Knee Bends: Stand with your feet as wide as your shoulders. Stretch out your hands. Lower your body towards the ground slowly. Do this until your thighs are in a horizontal position. Hold this position for a few seconds, and stand up slowly without bouncing. Repeat this 10 to 15 times.
Hamstring Stretch: Lie on the floor and put a rope around the arch of your foot. Tighten it and start pulling your leg, so it is straight-up as high as possible. Do it for both legs 15 times each.
If I start feeling pain, should I push through or take it easy?
You should never push yourself too hard if it pains. The best way to prevent extreme knee injuries is to stop immediately and rest. Visit a physician if you experience pain. Go back to skiing only after getting enough rest and a proper check from your doctor.
Can I fly with my knee brace?
You can do two things – remove the brace and submit it through the X-ray machine or wear it on for comfort. Alert the screening officer that you are wearing a knee brace so that they can inspect you manually.
How can I keep my knee brace warm?
Make sure the leg vents of your ski pants are closed. You can wear the brace over a thin layer of clothing or wear a sleeve over the brace if you have a tendency to feel cold easily.
What are the pros and cons of wearing a ski knee brace?
Hinged knee braces reduce knee movements and the risk of knee injuries. They not only help you play extreme sports but also ease your daily activities without pain. As knee braces restrict movement, it may be hard to move your leg after recovery.
Should your knee brace go under or over your ski pants?
You can wear a knee brace both over and under your ski pants. If your pants are slippery, you should wear them under your pants.
Do knee braces help for skiing?
Yes, knee braces improve your knee stability by supporting and protecting your knees while you land abruptly.
How do I keep my knees safe while skiing?
You can keep your knees under proper support with the right knee braces, as wearing them reduces your chances of developing a ligament tear.
Can you ski with a torn ACL?
Yes, you can ski with a torn ACL if you wear your knee braces, but you should not overdo it as it can make the tear more painful.
Is skiing hard on your ACL?
Yes, skiing with an ACL can be painful and difficult for anyone if they are not wearing the right knee braces. Knee braces provide proper support and compression to the tear to avoid further damage.
How common are ACL tears in skiing?
Unfortunately, ACL is ubiquitous, and most skiers – beginners and even experienced ones suffer this painful injury yearly. However, you can prevent ACL with proper training, techniques, and equipment.
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