Our team of physical therapists has tested all kinds of knee braces for walking so you don’t have to. We hope this helps you find the best knee brace for walking.
It’s easy to take walking for granted…until you get some kind of injury (or get older) and walking becomes a literal pain.
We treat many customers who just want to go back to normal activities without constant pain in the knee during or after activity.
Walking is still one of the best exercises there is, even for those of us with arthritis. Knee braces not only add support for your knees but also help ease the pain and manage inflammation.
We tried out dozens of these knee braces, ran them through our tough criteria, and used our extensive physical therapy experience to list the best knee supports for walking.
IN THIS ARTICLE
Our Top Picks:
Best Recovery: MyCocoon Hot and Cold Compression Sleeve
With all the benefits of traditional knee sleeves coupled with hot/cold properties, the MyCocoon is your perfect walking partner.
Best Value for Money: ArmaJoint Compression Sleeve
Does everything a knee sleeve is supposed to do without breaking the bank.
Best for Unstable Knees: Braceability Patella Stabilizing Knee Brace
Its patented kneecaps, pressure points, lateral stabilizers, and air knit fabric makes this knee sleeve effective for pressure relief and overuse injuries.
Top 9 Best Knee Braces for Walking
1. MyCocoon Hot and Cold Compression Sleeve
Pros
- It’s a portable recovery aid with heat, cold, and compressive properties
- Significantly better durability than the average knee sleeve
- Great for virtually anyone with a painful knee
- Multiple sizes (you can use the same sleeve for other body parts, too)
Cons
- Above average price tag
- Only comes in black
MyCocoon is by and large the most unique and versatile knee sleeve we’ve ever tested.
Unlike most other knee sleeves that only provide compression (not that that’s a bad thing), these cocoons also double as portable hot and cold packs. This not only makes it great for pain management but also for post-exercise recovery.
Comfort and Stability
Lycra and hydrogel. These are the materials MyCocoon used to make their knee sleeves.
You won’t find many others with this combo because they’re more expensive than the more common neoprene. But, it also makes these cocoons more comfortable than your average brace.
It’s breathable, moisture-wicking, stays in place, and doesn’t wrinkle behind your knees when you walk.
If you want to cool down your joints after your walk, pop the sleeves in the freezer for at least 2 hours. If you need the warmth to keep your joints limber, you can microwave your cocoons, too.
Size options: S, M, L. (P.S.: 1 cocoon can fit multiple parts of your limb; not just your knees.)
Color options: Blue
We highly recommend the MyCocoons to those of you who plan to make walking their regular mode of exercise. The compression from the sleeve itself already helps with support, blood flow, and pain relief. But, the heat/cold properties take it up several notches higher.
It is worth noting you probably won’t experience the full benefits of MyCocoon if you don’t plan on being more active.
2. ArmaJoint Compression Sleeve
Pros
- Available in 6 different sizes
- Easy to put on
- Effectively reduces swelling and pain
- Comfortable fit
- Made from premium grade latex-free neoprene material
Cons
- Runs a little big
- Can slide down if you machine wash it.
If you have difficulty walking because of chronic pain and swelling on one or both knees, the ArmaJoint Compression Sleeve is a great choice.
It is lightweight, thin, and worn easily and comfortably. It also won’t show under what you’re wearing.
Our team all uses and recommended this brace as a great all-rounder and a far cheaper brace than what you can find at the pharmacy.
The brace was designed by Pain Therapists, to reduce joint inflammation and knee pain, as well as increase blood flow and circulation to the joint… which is crucial for maintaining a walker’s knee health and assisting recovery.
You can also have a knee brace on both knees. Plus size people won’t have a difficult time putting them on because of the range of sizes available from S to 6XL. It’s just like putting on socks.
You must only handwash this knee brace with soap and warm water to ensure it does not stretch.
The ArmaJoint doesn’t offer the same support as the Shock Doctor 875 (review below), however, it is perfect for walkers with minor-medium knee injuries, looking for an affordable, simple solution.
3. Braceability Patella Stabilizing Knee Brace
Pros
- Great fit with strong strapping
- Supportive for mild to severe ailments
- Provides full range of motion
- Well made
- Stays in place
- Warranty
Cons
- Bulkier brace
- Can be seen under clothes
If you’re looking for a high-quality knee brace to help stabilize your patella, the Braceability Patella Stabilizing Knee Brace is a great option to consider.
This brace is made from durable materials and is designed to provide support and stability to the patella, helping to reduce pain and inflammation. The adjustable straps also allow you to customize the fit of the brace for optimal comfort while walking.
This brace is heavy duty and is designed for walkers who need extra support for an unstable knee. We would recommend this brace for patients suffering from all types of knee arthritis, dislocated kneecaps, gout and ligament tears.
Additionally, the breathable fabric helps to keep your skin cool and dry, even during extended wear. Overall, the Braceability Patella Stabilizing Knee Brace is an excellent choice for those extra seeking support and stability.
4. Mava Sports Knee Support Sleeves (Pair) – Best Knee Support For Hill Walking
Pros
- Good knee support
- Anatomically shaped
- Accelerates your recovery
- Supports weaker joints
- Adjustable Strap
- Easy to wear
- Bamboo charcoal fiber
- Warranty
Cons
- Mava branding rubs off
Mava Sports makes one of the most popular knee brace pair.
The knee brace has been designed to have an optimum fit anatomically, which will help in hastening your recovery and preventing swelling or inflammation.
The knee brace can be worn daily, even while you are doing mundane tasks.
By decreasing the stress on your knee cap, it provides greater stability and strengthens your joints.
You can find the knee brace in your size, with its range going from small to XXXL.
Comfort and Stability
Mava Sports has put a special emphasis on designing this pair of knee sleeves to be comfortable.
Due to the lightweight and soft-to-touch fabric, you can keep the knee brace on for long hours.
It will not bunch up on your ankle due to its stable and tight compression.
Durability and Quality
These knee braces have been regularly recommended due to their well-made design and implementation.
Each knee sleeve can endure the daily wear and tear from walking, running or, even, other athletic activities.
The special fabric is made using bamboo charcoal, elastic and latex to keep the sleeves at their top performance, even after months of usage.
Cost and Value
Despite being an excellent product and coming as a pair, this Mava Sports Knee Brace is still among the lower priced options on our list.
5. Copper Compression Knee Sleeves
Pros
- High performance
- Can be worn when sleeping
- Highest copper content
- Compresses knees and joints
- Prevents ACL, PCL and other ligament injuries
- Great for all ages
- Lifetime warranty
Cons
- Some complains about brace slipping down from time to time
This is one of the best knee brace for walking with.
It comes with an elastic band that sticks really well to the upper thigh and prevents the sleeve from slipping.
On the bottom of the sleeve, there is a smaller sleeve which is very flexible and stretchable as well.
This allows the brace to provide adequate compression without feeling too tight.
The knee sleeve is made from a compound fabric – it’s actually a copper infused nylon, which helps in recovering from muscle stiffness, soreness, arthritis, etc.
Since you are going to be dancing with it on, you can easily wear it over your dancing pants without even feeling like you have a supporting aid on your body.
Comfort and Stability
Comfort wise, the product is made from top quality material and has been designed ergonomically.
It has an open patella design for relaxed movement.
Durability and Quality
This Copper Compression knee brace is made from a top grade infused frame, which does not break under stress or sweat.
With multiple stitching and locked seams, the structure of this knee brace will not weaken ever after months of usage.
Cost and Value
This is an ideal mid-range knee brace.
It comes in a pair and provides some of the features found only in high end variants.
Plus, the 100% happiness warranty means that you can always return the brace if you are not happy with it.
6. TechWare Pro Knee Support Brace
Pros
- Unique bidirectional support
- 4 flexible spring stabilizer
- No slip design
- Consistent pain relief
- Better knee stability
- Easy to use and wash
- Multiple sizing
- Warranty
Cons
- Rubber backing may irritate if you have sensitive skin
Whether you’re looking for a way to stop knee pain getting in the way of your active lifestyle or simply looking for a little extra support, this TechWare knee brace is the perfect solution.
The most prominent feature of this brace is its bi-directional low profile design.
Unlike many competing braces which have straps only on one side, the TechWare brace features a three strap system with two straps on one side and one on the other.
This provides an even compression on both sides of the knee.
The knee brace offers an unrivaled combination of mobility and support, allowing you to continue with your daily activities with less pain.
It helps prevent injuries and allows you to recover from existing ones, making it the perfect companion for anyone who wants to walk, jog or run daily.
Comfort and Stability
TechWare Pro brace comes with a nice padding around the kneecap area and two spring stabilizers on both sides of the knees, for ultimate comfort. Despite the padded protection, it still allows for plenty of mobility for most activities.
Durability and Quality
TechWare Pro is an industry leader and creates some of the most popular knee aids.
This knee brace has the looks and function of a rugged product.
It has multiple stitching seams and a dual layer that keeps external scratches away from internal fabric.
The knee brace is made from highest grade neoprene fabric, which will not chip or wear with time.
Cost and Value
This is one of the more expensive options but consider it as a one time expense, especially if you are looking to get one of the best knee support for long distance walking.
Users of TechWare Pro are extremely satisfied with the knee brace and have been using it for a very long time.
7. BLITZU Flex Plus Compression Knee Brace Pair
Pros
- Relieves knee pain and protects joints
- Designed to be worn throughout the day
- Wearable under pant
- Reinforced patella stabilizer
- Muscle heat therapy
- Stays in place
- 360 degree stretch
- 1 year warranty
Cons
- Reportedly uncomfortable for the first few times
What is special about Blitzu knee sleeves is that the pair is not specialized for one purpose.
Instead, it is designed for everyday usage for men and women of all ages.
The knee sleeves come as a pair and are very effective in providing support, while reducing cramping and fatigue.
There is a reinforced patella stabilizer that holds the patella in position and prevent your ligament from damaging, in case you also jog and run.
Apart from the excellent compression, the knee sleeves also provide adequate muscle heating therapy to soothe any pain and for promoting healing.
Comfort and Stability
Made from professional premium performance fabric, the knee sleeve is light, breathable and moisture wicking.
This allows you to wear it for long hours. It is also UPF50+ rated and prevents your leg skin from UV damage.
With a 360 degree stretch, it provides ultimate flexibility and stability.
Durability and Quality
The knee sleeves are made of high grade material and are tested to last for a long time.
They come with a year of no-question-asked return policy, which shows you the confidence of the manufacturer in its product.
Each knee brace is peculiarly designed to provide effective pain relief, while sustaining stress and daily wear.
Cost and Value
Made in USA and by an American manufacturer, this knee brace is still able to provide great value for your money.
You should check it out if you are looking to reduce pain due to ligament swelling, strains or sprains.
8. Patella Strap Knee Brace by Run Forever Sports
Pros
- Reduces the pressure on your patella
- Designed for comfort
- Fully adjustable
- Premium neoprene padding
- Functions as a second skin
- No movement restriction
- Warranty
Cons
- Needs some fidgeting to get the fit correct
This patella brace from Run Forever Sports has been developed for optimum protection of your knee and to prevent your joints from being overworked.
It is an ideal choice for users who are looking for a minimal but best knee support for walking downhill.
The knee brace will help you by releasing tension from your knee cap and providing an immediate relief effect.
It is fully adjustable and has a universal size to fit most wearers.
Comfort and Stability
Made from premium quality material (neoprene and nylon), this knee brace is soft and does not pinch the skin.
It is fully adjustable via the side straps, which allow you to play with the compression level and find your sweet spot.
Durability and Quality
Unlike other patella straps, this one is made under the top manufacturing standards and has passed multiple screening tests before making it into the market.
The seams are double stitched along the unique curved design and do not weaken with time.
Cost and Value
This patella knee brace is a premium product and despite its small size, it still sells for about the same price as an average full-sized knee brace.
9. Bauerfeind Sport Knee Support (Single)
Pros
- Gentle, Beneficial Compression
- Anatomically Contoured Pad
- Triggers Positive Sensory Motor Feedback
- Made Of A Fine Mesh Knit
- Comfort And Freedom Of Movement
- Built For Sporting Activities
- 100% Satisfaction Guaranteed
Cons
- Not recommended for usage on sensitive skin
One thing runners and walkers care a lot about is their knee brace staying in place.
The best knee brace for walking won’t help your knee if it’s down around your ankle.
That’s why the Bauerfeind knee support is anatomically shaped to look like a knee and fits the leg like a glove.
An important feature of this knee support is the knee cap stabilization and pain relief.
The pain in knee cap causes a lot of problems, which is aided to via the patented Omega pad.
This pad goes around the kneecap to give 360 degrees of stabilization and redistributes forces.
The knee brace also comes with special gripping zones, in the front of the brace and in the back of the brace, which helps in preventing slippage.
Comfort and Stability
The knee brace fabric is made from patented air knit technology.
This allows the knee brace to be exceptionally lightweight, without compromising on structural integrity.
It provides maximum breathability as well and is easily washable by hand.
Durability and Quality
Bauerfeind is a German company and as is often the case with German engineering, this knee brace is exceptionally designed and manufactured to last for several years.
It has multiple reinforced seams that let nothing on chance and ensure that the knee brace is able to endure stress equal to multiple times your body weight, without coming apart.
Cost and Value
This knee brace is in the premium range of options in our review.
It offers the best features, which are often not found in your average knee brace.
Consider it as an option if you are looking for a high end product, with no compromise on quality.
Factors to Consider When Choosing The Best Knee Brace for Walking
Comfort and Stability
Not only should your knee brace be comfortable, it should also not restrict mobility at all, allowing you to perform your daily routine without thinking about it.
For ensuring stability, look for variants in the market that come with an anti-slip design.
Durability and Quality
Look for a high quality knee brace made from flexible fabric and with optimum fitting.
A knee brace with locked seams and reinforced stitching will hold up well for a few years.
Also, always make sure that the product you are buying has a return policy and at least 1 year of warranty from defects.
Cost and Value
The value of a knee brace depends on your own needs, your condition and your budget.
If you are aged, you might want one or more knee braces at all times for varying causes of knee pain.
A better alternative can be to get a premium knee brace that covers various knee ailments, even though you may have to pay a higher cost initially.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do knee braces really work?
If you have a bad knee, a knee brace could be beneficial for pain and/or immobilization.
If you have mild pain, you can wear it one day and then take it off the next day.
The knee brace will add stability and prevent you from sliding or falling.
Should I wear a knee brace for hiking?
If you suffer from mild or temporary knee pain, it is better to wear a knee brace while hiking.
A brace provides enough protection to prevent your knee from compressing too far.
When should you wear a knee brace?
You can wear a knee brace every day and do basic exercises to strengthen your knee.
If your knee pain is very discomforting, you can even go to sleep while wearing a knee brace.
Does wearing a knee brace weaken the knee?
No, wearing a knee brace does not weaken the knee or the ligaments that run down it, but can instead provide more stability.
Should I wear a knee brace all day?
You can wear a knee brace all day only if your knees are weak.
For healthy knees, you should continue walking without an aid to ensure that the knees remain strengthened.
What brace is best for knee pain?
The best knee brace for walking will be a low-profile model that is lightweight and flexible enough to meet your mobility needs.
The precise model for your knee pain depends on the type of pain and its cause.
Note: The answers are not a replacement for medical advice. Please visit a doctor for advice on recovery from your ailment, if you have a serious condition.
Conclusion
This concludes our review of the best knee brace for walking. We have picked seven products that have surpassed most options in the market, in terms of the comfort, durability and features.
Our listed knee braces take away the forces placed on your joints (usually a lot) and keep your muscles flexible, allowing them to handle the extreme power you are putting through them.
We hope you will decide which one suits your needs best, and that it will help you to work and improve your mobility.
