5 Best Knee Braces for Soccer 2024 [In-Depth Reviews] (2024)

  • by James Cunningham
  • July 31, 2022

Table of Contents

Soccer is one of the most popular sports in the world. Millions of soccer players worldwide, some play professionally, whereas most are just for fun. Being injured is a risk you should never take, regardless of who you are. You want always to play it safe – at least that is what I tell my players.

Don’t get me wrong; I’m all about leaving everything on the field, blood, sweat, and tears. But if that’s going to put your physical integrity on the line, that’s a big no-no.

There is always a chance of getting hurt playing soccer, but this doesn’t necessarily mean you should play the odds. Instead, having the best support and equipment is the key.

Besides having good soccer shoes that everyone needs, those who tend to have weak knees also require proper support.

You would not believe how many injuries I have witnessed during my many coaching years. Taking such risks isn’t worth it and may ruin your potential career. I’ve seen tens of irresponsible players who ended up losing their soccer aspirations.

As a football coach, I’ve seen all types of knee braces and even used some myself. That is why I put together this list of the best knee braces for soccer currently on the market. I’d be glad to suggest these to my players any day of the week.

Let’s dig in!

Shock Doctor Hinged Knee Brace - The Best Knee Brace for Soccer

Sale

5 Best Knee Braces for Soccer 2024 [In-Depth Reviews] (2)

Shock Doctor Compression Knee Brace for Men & Women, Maximum...

  • EVERYDAY RELIEF: Our knee brace provides maximum...
  • ALL-AROUND COMFORT & STABILITY: The heavy duty...
  • HEALING COMPRESSION: Compression supports soft...
  • PREMIUM MATERIALS & MAXIMUM FUNCTIONALITY:...
  • PERFORMANCE-DRIVEN INNOVATION: Shock Doctor has...

If you ask me, this Shock Doctor knee brace is the absolute best option for knee support. I have used it myself and couldn’t be happier with the results.

Of course, you can use it to prevent injuries, but I have mainly seen players use it for ligament sprains, meniscus injuries, or to minimize lateral instability. It can be used throughout an entire game since it facilitates airflow and has built-in antimicrobial tech. Your leg won’t sweat, and it does not hinder any movement.

The bilateral dual hinges on the brace give great support to the leg while allowing great movement freedom thanks to the four-way stretch spandex. I love that it has a pre-curved anatomical design that boosts therapeutic heat, which helps muscle repair.

All in all, the Shock Doctor brace is an excellent buy for both serious and beginner soccer players.

Pros

  • Multi-purpose brace
  • Minimizes instability in the knee
  • Comfortable for extended use
  • Speeds up muscle repair through therapeutic heating
  • Can be used on the right and/or left knee

Cons

  • Picking the right size is crucial if you want it to be efficient

DonJoy Tru-Pull Lite Knee Brace – The Best for Everyday Use

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5 Best Knee Braces for Soccer 2024 [In-Depth Reviews] (3)

DonJoy Tru-Pull Lite Knee Support Brace: Right Leg, Large

  • Ideal for runners, recreational athletes, or...
  • Comfortable patella support brace for mild to...
  • Includes removable plastic hinges which provide...
  • This product is designed to be tight. If you are...
  • Made of Breath-O-Prene, which is a wicking fabric...

If you are a soccer player but feel discomfort throughout the day, you probably need to wear a support brace constantly. One of the best ones for that purpose that is currently on the market is the DonJoy knee brace.

This Tru-Pull Lite brace is the best option for anyone feeling pain or discomfort in the kneecap because of dislocations or injuries. It supports the patella for all activities, including simply standing.

This unit features good lateral and medial stability thanks to the removable plastic hinges. If you feel like you don’t want or need them, you can simply remove them. This brace helps to realign the patella by constantly pulling on the kneecap during movement.

I personally always felt this brace was rather too tight for my taste. However, I learned that it was the whole purpose. The tightness is actually what makes it so efficient. This doesn’t affect comfort since it features Breath-O-Prene which is a fabric known to be hypoallergenic, light and allows the skin to breathe naturally.

Really comfortable, even after using it for extended periods of time, I’d suggest this brace as an everyday brace for kneecap support.

Bioskin Gladiator Knee Brace - The Best For Treating Ligament Damage

5 Best Knee Braces for Soccer 2024 [In-Depth Reviews] (4)

30 Reviews

BIOSKIN Wraparound Patella Stabilizer Knee Brace for...

  • MULTIFUNCTIONAL DESIGN - Our knee brace is...
  • RELIEVE PAIN - Our compressive base sleeve reduces...
  • SCIENTIFICALLY DESIGNED - Our wrap-around design...
  • HYPOALLERGENIC MATERIAL - Our knee brace is...
  • TRUSTED BY PROFESSIONALS - Over 40 professional...

Soccer players are prone to ligament injuries and damage, and this is why they need good knee support for that. In my experience, I found that the best and most effective unit for treating ligament damage is the Bioskin Gladiator brace.

This has proven to be the best ACL brace for soccer players, and it has proven to be a really decent knee support for soccer after ACL surgery for my players. It can treat ligament tears and sprains, as well as knee instability.

It comes at a really high price, but it is worth for the money because of various reasons. First, it is really easy to use, and it is comfortable after you find the right size for you.

Also, it has a 15-inch range of motion hinge that minimizes the pain while protecting your ligaments. What I really loved about it is that it has a Visco gel ring. This piece is found around the kneecap and it minimizes chances of swelling and pain. The material is overall pretty breathable, and it is hypoallergenic to ensure greater comfort.

All in all, the Gladiator is a great brace for ACL, MCL, LCL, PCL or simple knee support.

Pros

  • Offers incredible knee stability
  • Treats several types of ligament damage
  • Super durable
  • Minimizes pain
  • Good for long-term use

Cons

  • Quite expensive (but it’s worth it)

DonJoy Reaction Web Knee Brace - The Best For Knee Instability

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5 Best Knee Braces for Soccer 2024 [In-Depth Reviews] (5)

DonJoy Reaction Web Knee Support Brace with Compression...

  • Innovative web design absorbs shock, disperses...
  • Open webbing framework coupled with the mesh...
  • Webbing acts to dynamically stabilize the patella...
  • Lightweight design makes this knee brace ideal for...
  • Universal fit allows the DonJoy Reaction WEB Knee...

The DonJoy Reaction Web knee brace is a unique-looking piece of equipment. Despite his bizarre design, it has helped quite a few of my players over the years.

The brace has a webbed design and can come in several colors. But, besides what meets the eye, the DonJoy brace was created by an orthopedic surgeon, serving its purpose nicely.

I’ve seen people use it for hiking, jogging, and, most importantly – soccer. It offers incredible knee stability thanks to its elastomeric web design. This design also disperses energy across the knee and thus, reduces the pain there. The web can also absorb shock, which makes it the best knee support for soccer players.

All in all, it stabilizes the kneecap and gives it a good tracking position, which minimizes the pain.

Pros

  • Really comfortable
  • Effective relief of anterior knee pain
  • Breathable mesh backing
  • Enhances stability of the knee

Cons

  • Not very helpful for muscle or ligament injuries

TechWare Pro Knee Brace - The Best Budget Option

5 Best Knee Braces for Soccer 2024 [In-Depth Reviews] (6)

TechWare Pro Knee Brace Support - Relieves ACL, LCL, MCL,...

  • ADJUSTABLE UNIQUE BiDIRECTIONAL SUPPORT...
  • OPEN PATELLA DESIGN For Support and Compression...
  • BREATHABLE MOISTURE WICKING LIGHTWEIGHT NEOPRENE...
  • COMFORTABLE SUPPORT PAIN RELIEF From Tears,...
  • MAXIMUM SUPPORT for Runners Knee. If Your Game is...

If you don’t like emptying out your wallet on knee support, I might have an option for you.

The TechWare Pro is a decent brace offering the best knee support for soccer players at this price range. It features an adjustable design, and it can be used for both feet too. If you have knee pain or injury, you’ll probably enjoy the support and compression it offers.

The fabric used in the brace is breathable neoprene, and to avoid slipping, the unit has silicone strips. These keep you comfortable while using the brace for extended periods of time. It decently stabilizes the kneecap and offers good protection against further injuries.

You don’t need to spend a fortune to get the best knee brace for soccer players, as I’ve seen that the TechWare Pro is a really effective brace.

Pros

  • Budget-friendly
  • Multi-purpose
  • Offers decent knee stability
  • Various sizes to choose from

Cons

  • Not a heavy-duty brace

Best Knee Braces for Soccer - The Only Buying Guide You’ll Ever Need

To get the best knee support for soccer, you’ll need to be particularly aware of the features it must include. By not getting the proper equipment, you are exposing yourself to a higher risk of injury than your initial one.

To help you avoid chasing wild gooses, I’ve compiled a list of the most important things you need to be wary of when buying knee braces.

1. Levels of Protection

There are different types of knee braces offering different kind of protection.

The first level ones are pretty basic– the flexible braces which are used for pain relief for soccer players who have mild injuries.

The second level ones aren’t too flexible, but they give you a decent amount of abilities to move. Examples of these are knee straps or wraparound braces. These are often used for tendonitis or ligament instabilities.

The most effective ones are the third level hinged knee braces. They offer incredible support, but don’t allow you a lot of movement.

2. Types of Braces

There are different types you can choose from:

Knee Sleeves – The best knee sleeves for soccer players are easily used and offer good compression for mild pain.

Wraparound braces – Great for moderate pain and offer greater support.

Hinged braces – Helpful for after surgery treatment. They keep your knee in the proper alignment.

Best Knee Braces for Soccer – Frequently Asked Questions

Can I play soccer with a knee brace?

There are different types you can choose from:

Knee Sleeves – The best knee sleeves for soccer players are easily used and offer good compression for mild pain.

Wraparound braces – Great for moderate pain and offer greater support.

Hinged braces – Helpful for after surgery treatment. They keep your knee in the proper alignment.

What is the best knee brace for ACL injury?

The knee braces for ACL injuries are usually hinged and treat different kinds of ligament injuries. One great example is the Bioskin Gladiator knee brace, but if you want a model especially for your knee, I suggest consulting an orthopedic surgeon.

Do you need knee pads for soccer?

Not necessarily, as they aren’t listed in the must-have equipment.

Do knee braces help prevent ACL tears?

Yes, some knee braces, especially hinged braces can prevent and minimize the chances of ACL and other ligament tears or injuries.

What sports use knee pads?

In fact, many athletes in many sports use knee pads for protection. More specifically, sports where falling on your knees happens quite often. I’m talking about sports like volleyball, hockey, cycling, roller-skating, handball and basketball. Basketball players also use knee pads because of the jumping and the stress it puts on the knees.

Final Words - Picking the Best Knee Braces for Soccer

All in all, you should be very careful when choosing the best knee braces for soccer, as this might save your whole career. If you want something with heavy-duty purpose, both DonJoy braces and the Gladiator are great options. The Shock Doctor will be a great support too. And, if money is an issue, you can always opt for the budget-friendly TechWare Pro.

I hope this article was able to guide you in the right direction and help you find the best knee brace for you. Do you have a good experience with another one? Feel free to share your thoughts in the comments below!

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James Cunningham

James lives in Chicago with his wife and three daughters. Originally from the UK, soccer has allowed him to travel the world. Now a youth coach, he fully enjoys teaching others about the game that he loves so much. His favorite team is Manchester United.

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5 Best Knee Braces for Soccer 2024 [In-Depth Reviews] (2024)

FAQs

What is the best knee brace for soccer players? ›

The Ascender Knee Brace. The Ascender is an unloader knee brace that provides the user with maximum comfort, flexibility, and support for its class. It is form-fitting and lightweight to prevent sliding on the field and can unload up to 40lbs from the affected knee.

Which knee brace is best? ›

Soft hinged knee braces are ideal for mild to moderate support whereas rigid hinged knee braces are ideal for moderate to maximum support and offer better protection and stability for contact-sports.

How do I choose the right knee brace? ›

The right knee brace for you depends on the level of support needed and/or what your doctor recommends. This decision is based on whether or not you're recovering from surgery, the type of injury you have, and how much movement your knee should be getting.

Is it good to play soccer with knee brace? ›

It's common for soccer players to injure their knees and even tear a ligament. These injuries are not surprising considering all the footwork and running required on the field. Doing specific exercises to strengthen the thighs and wearing a soccer knee brace are ways to help reduce your chances of soccer knee injury.

How can I strengthen my knees for soccer? ›

If you've got weak knees, here are four knee strengthening exercises you can do starting today to keep your knees healthy.
  1. Straight leg lifts. Most people with weak knees also have weak quadriceps (the muscles located in the front of your thighs). ...
  2. “Backwards” leg lifts. ...
  3. Calf raises. ...
  4. Step-ups.
Feb 13, 2024

What knee braces do pros wear? ›

The Active knit® material of the knee brace is lightweight, breathable and moisture-wicking for maximum comfort. By providing basketball players with injury-preventing and soothing benefits, it is easy to see why Bauerfeind's GenuTrain NBA Knee Brace is the knee brace of choice among NBA athletes.

What is the new technology for knee braces? ›

A mechatronics gadget called the active knee brace combines mechanical, electrical, electronic, and computer science principles. Aside from a frame, straps, side hinges, padding, and sensors for improved knee joint mechanics and movement support, advanced active knee braces may also have motors.

Do knee braces really work? ›

Effectiveness: Studies have shown that using a knee brace can really make a difference when dealing with knee pain. They're great for keeping things steady during exercise and play an important role in helping injuries get better.

What are the three different types of knee braces? ›

According to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons,5 knee braces fit into several categories: (1) prophylactic—braces intended to prevent or reduce the severity of knee injuries in contact sports; (2) functional—braces designed to provide stability for unstable knees; and (3) rehabilitative—braces designed to ...

When should you not wear a knee brace? ›

If a knee brace is too tight, it can interrupt venous circulation and cause swelling and edema in the leg. For these reasons, doctors may recommend that you take the brace off when you're sitting for long periods and when you go to bed at night.

How do I choose a brace? ›

Choosing the Right Braces:

Consult with your orthodontist to determine the severity of your dental issue and discuss your treatment options. Consider your lifestyle and daily routine. If you play sports or a musical instrument, lingual braces or clear aligners may be a better option than traditional metal braces.

What is a Level 3 knee brace? ›

Level 3 knee protection represents advanced knee braces that support and stabilise the knee for post-surgery recovery.

What knee brace do doctors recommend? ›

Unloader knee braces: Unloader braces get their name from how they support your knee. They help absorb some of your weight and “unload” pressure off your knee to other parts of your leg that are strong enough to bear it. They're the most common type of brace providers suggest for knee arthritis.

Why do footballers not wear knee braces? ›

There are several reasons behind this shift in gear preference. Players believe that bulky knee pads hinder their speed and agility, impacting their ability to run and move laterally on the field. They also have aesthetic concerns, wanting to maintain a sleek and streamlined appearance without the extra padding.

Does FIFA allow knee braces? ›

Non-dangerous protective equipment, for example gloves, headgear, facemasks and knee and arm protectors made of soft, lightweight padded material is permitted as are goalkeepers' caps and sports spectacles.

What do soccer players wear on their knee? ›

Soccer players wear it to relieve pain, as well as to support their muscles, tendons and ligaments. Although K-tape has its limitations, there is some science to support its effectiveness. And then you have knee guards and braces, which offer similar benefits but are rarely seen the pitch.

Can soccer players wear braces? ›

Throughout my years as a soccer referee, I've observed many players with braces navigate the field with ease, many choosing to wear mouthguards for added protection. However, it's essential to note that while mouthguards are recommended, they aren't mandatory.

How do footballers protect their knees? ›

Use the Proper Equipment

Improper or faulty equipment can lead to injuries in any sport, so if you're recovering from an injury or actively working to protect your knees during sports, your gear should be in good condition. This includes wearing proper footwear and also investing in knee braces or wraps if necessary.

What is the best ACL repair for soccer players? ›

Dr. Cunningham and other sports medicine surgeons that do a high volume of ACL surgery recommend autograft and not allograft. Studies have repeatedly demonstrated a higher retear rate with allografts, particularly in younger patients.

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