7 Best Knee Braces For Tennis Players

There are a variety of ailments that can hinder even the best tennis players in the world. With all that running around on different surfaces, knee problems tend to pop up at some time for even the very best.

While it may not always be comfortable, a knee brace is a requirement for some. Getting through the pain while still playing seems like a challenge, but knee braces can be very beneficial. Getting the right one is key.

Below is a look at seven of the best knee braces out there for tennis players currently. Whether it’s some light support or a full knee brace, it makes sense to invest in something that works.

1. Mueller Adjustable Knee Brace

A very trusted name in athletic braces and supports is Mueller. This knee brace might look pretty basic, but it provides a lot of support that the average person needs to feel more confident on the court. It’s not too bulky, but it still provides a good amount of support that can be adjusted throughout the match in case things aren’t super comfortable.

Velcro straps make this knee brace particularly easy to use. Players usually want to start with a fairly tight fit since it will loosen up as the match goes on. It takes a couple of seconds to make adjustments during a changeover, which keeps the knee safely secured at all times.

Breathability is also great with this knee brace, as it’s lightweight and sturdy with some air holes to let things work as they should. As long as the knee injury isn’t too bad, the Muller knee brace should be sufficient.

Pros

• Inexpensive
• Solid compression all around
• Strapping system offers a customized fit

Cons

• Velcro adjustments take time to figure out completely
• Availability is sometimes an issue online

2. Mueller Hinged Knee Brace

A hinged knee brace has its pros and cons. The heavier material used in this knee brace provides more support for those who feel like they aren’t getting enough with the option above. However, metal hinges are going to slow a player down just a bit on the tennis court.

Some are worried that the hinges will be uncomfortable when moving in all different directions. I have any ability to place the hinges anywhere around the knee to fit perfectly helps out a lot. It’s one of the most comfortable options anyone can go with while still getting the hinge support.

All in all, it’s a knee brace worth looking into for anyone bouncing back from a major injury or surgery. Having that extra bit of support can give players confidence that they can move around the court without risking a huge issue.

Pros

• Added support with the hinge
• Easy to move the hinge around for extra support
• Inexpensive

Cons

• Adds too much bulkiness for some people
• Needs washed consistently to avoid smelling

3. McDavid Knee Brace Support with Side Stays and Compression

One of the more popular McDavid knee braces out there is this option for all-around improved comfort. It helps with stability, patellar tendon support, tendinitis, arthritis, and general recovery. Coming in multiple sizes, athletes can get the exact fit they need and start playing tennis more confidently.

The steel stays used in the knee brace are perfect for anyone needing extra support in the medial-lateral area. This helps to prevent injuries from occurring, while also helping out any recovery.

The neoprene sleeve used on the brace is very high-quality and latex-free. It provides a decent amount of therapeutic heat to keep muscles warm during play. At the same time, it doesn’t get too hot that a person sacrifices comfort.

Finding the right size might be tricky at first, but they do offer free returns online. There’s also the opportunity to try them on in person before making a purchase.

Pros

• Steel stays work very well
• Latex-free neoprene
• Multiple sizes available

Cons

• Sizing takes a bit of time to get used to
• Slightly more expensive than other similar options out there

4. Ultra Flex Knee Compression Sleeve Support

Simply put, it doesn’t get much cheaper than this for quality knee support in tennis. The sleeve is perfect for people who have mild discomfort in their knees and don’t want to spend a fortune. Trying this out first will provide people with the feedback necessary to see if they need something a little more comprehensive.

There are three different sizes for the Ultraflex, and it could be a little tricky ordering online to figure out which one fits best. Keep in mind that it will stretch out little by little as time goes on, so get something that fits a little bit tight at first.

Pros

• Extremely affordable
• A few sizes offered for a great fit
• Easy to put on

Cons

• Design isn’t for everyone
• Sizing is tricky

5. McDavid Patella Knee Strap

This knee brace is very specific to the patellar tendon. Whether a person is dealing with tendinitis, jumpers knee, runners knee, or any other type of pain in that area, all they might need is a simple strap instead of a full brace.

The great thing about this option is that it is extremely lightweight. It’s also not restrictive so that players can move around with relative ease. Knowing that it comes from a David also helps people trust that they are getting something that lasts a long time and is going to perform well in sports.

The latex-free neoprene is just 3.2 mm wide. It fits both left and right knee and is pretty adjustable for a customized fit. For even more customization, there are a few different size variations to pick from.

Pros

• Perfect for specific patellar tendon issues
• Very lightweight
• Customized fit

Cons

• Not for full knee support
• Starts smelling fairly easily

6. MODVEL 2 Pack Knee Brace

Rated as one of the best knee brace options out there for all types of sports, these come in various sizes and colors to get a perfect fit. They are medical-grade kneepads that help out with anything from a meniscus tear to arthritis. They easily slide on to provide compression, but there’s active pain relief inside the braces as well.

Anyone worried about them slipping off won’t have to things to do silicon grip wave throughout the grace period as long as the person gets a solid size for them, it should be able to work exactly as it should.

7. DOUFURT

The brand might not be that well-known, but it’s hard to argue with the price and the reviews online for this knee brace. It comes with side stabilizers for extra protection if needed, making it one of the best values on the market today.

Coming in four different sizes, this knee brace mostly treats tendinitis and arthritis. However, those who are bouncing back from any type of ACL or MCL issue can also find it to be a worthwhile option.

Pros

• Four different sizes for a great fit
• Doesn’t slip or move around
• Gel pad makes it very comfortable

Cons

• Durability isn’t the greatest
• Rubs some people the wrong way on their skin

Is it Hard to Adjust to Playing with a Knee Brace On?

Most tennis players are going to feel like the adjustment to wearing a knee brace is relatively straightforward. It’s good for those who need that extra bit of support, and modern options are pretty comfortable overall.

The important thing is to get the right sizing and make adjustments so that it fits the right way. If it is rubbing the knee incorrectly, it could become a troublesome knee brace for other reasons. It should be able to provide plenty of support, but also general stability to make it easier.

Why Do Knee Braces Matter?

There’s nothing worse than having knee problems playing any type of sport. People want to protect their knees as much as possible so that they can continue playing and not have to worry about stops along the way.

Even the psychological boost of having protection on the knee can be very helpful for the average player. They aren’t going to prevent a major freak injury from occurring, but they do so many different things to help out. As long as players feel confident on the court, it’s a victory.