Whether you train for competition or just for the love of the sweat, it’s important that you train comfortably and safely. By wearing one of the best knee sleeves for Crossfit, you can prevent a serious injury and limit your pain.
But picking a CrossFit knee sleeve isn’t as easy as you might imagine. There are tons available, and they all have different qualities. If you’re feeling overwhelmed in your search for the right sleeve, you’re in luck. We’ve reviewed some of the best CrossFit knee sleeves. Learn more about what to look for, and which ones made the cut.
What Should You Look for When Buying Knee Sleeves for CrossFit?
Unlike some other sports with only a few motions, CrossFit requires many different types of movements. Therefore, it requires a sleeve that can handle all of the movement. A knee sleeve made for powerlifting isn’t likely to handle all of the running, jumping, and other motions of a CrossFit workout. The heaviness of a powerlifting sleeve would limit your motion too much.
For that reason, you need a thin sleeve made of a comfortable material. It should be able to protect you as you’re doing squats, but also give you complete motion while you do some cardio. If you’re not able to train at your best, your sleeve isn’t doing its job.
If you’re buying a knee sleeve for CrossFit, you should also look for one with a good fit. It should be a little loose. A heavy-duty sleeve could keep you knee from having the right range of motion during your workout. This is one of the reasons knee wraps aren’t a good option for this sport. They tend to have too much resistance and could even prevent you from walking properly.
There’s also the issue of durability. If you love CrossFit, then you probably live at the gym. Your equipment needs to be able to put up with the frequency and intensity of your workouts. And this means buying a well-made CrossFit knee sleeve. It should last for years, or you’ll go broke paying to replace it every month.
1. Bear KompleX Compression Knee Sleeves
You may know this company from their status as a handgrip sponsor of the CrossFit Games. But Bear KompleX doesn’t limit itself to grip strength. It has branched into knee sleeves, and they don’t disappoint.
The Bear KompleX Compression Knee Sleeves were created with CrossFit athletes in mind. Available in either 5mm or 7mm thickness, the sleeve gives you the support you need as well as the elasticity you need to perform well.
One of the best features of this product is the style. In addition to having a cool logo on it, the sleeve comes in many different styles. The only drawback is the slight lack of durability. Some users have complained about this product not passing the test of time. However, the majority of people rave about the sleeves. They function well and leave you looking stylish.
2. Rehband Rx Knee Support – Black
Rehband made one of the first popular knee sleeves for CrossFit. Because it’s been popular for years, Rehband has been able to improve upon their original design. The Rehband RX 5mm Knee Support does everything it should. While it gives you support, it also allows you to move freely.
In addition to working well, the knee sleeve is durable. This is particularly true of the 5mm model. If you have the right size, it can last for years. Like any sleeve, it could loosen over time. Washing it can tighten it and reverse the damage your frequent wear does to it.
The biggest complaint people have is the fact that it’s sold individually. At first glance, you might think the Rehband is one of the more affordable sleeves on the market. But the price is only for one. Despite the higher price tag, this can be a great option.
3. RockTape Assassins Knee Sleeves
If you watched the 2018 CrossFit Games, you might have noticed that all of the athletes wore RockTape Assassins sleeves. There’s a reason the tough competitors were wearing these sleeves – they get the job done. These sleeves are extremely comfortable and give you a high level of support. While wearing them, you might have more spring in your squat. They don’t slip and have stellar reviews from other workout addicts. In my opinion, these are the best knee sleeves for squating.
One highlight of this sleeve is the warranty. With a one-year warranty on craftsmanship defects, you can be sure your sleeves will last. You don’t have to worry about them failing you or wearing out months after buying them.
These CrossFit sleeves also look good. You can look good while you workout safe.
4. Nordic Lifting Knee Sleeves
Available in 7mm neoprene, these Nordic Lifting Knee Sleeves have a lot to offer. They are hand-crafted and well-made. With a convenient sizing chart, the company makes it easy to find the right fit.
This company prides itself on durability. Their one-year warranty allows you to return them if you aren’t satisfied. But that’s unlikely to happen.
If you’re looking for a simple sleeve that doesn’t stand out too much, this one might be a good option. They come in black with white trim, so they aren’t too in-your-face.
5. JerkFit Reversible Knee Sleeves
The JerkFit Reversible Knee Sleeve is different from many of the others on the market. Like the other best knee sleeves for Crossfit, it provides comfort and support. But it also features more padding on the knee. This gives you more padding as you do lunges and burpees.
Only available in 5mm neoprene, these sleeves provide excellent support. However, they are also great for cardio workouts. In fact, you can comfortably run while wearing them.
One of the highlights of the JerkFit sleeve is that it’s reversible. Although it might not seem like a big deal, you might really enjoy the feature. Without paying for a second set of sleeves, you can change up your look.
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