Volleyball is a fantastic sport and a great way to keep fit and have fun with your friends. However, the dynamic nature of this sport can make it especially hard on your knees, which can lead to injury, disease, or overexertion.
If you’ve previously suffered from a knee injury or are looking to prevent one from occurring in the first place, a knee brace can help immensely. But with so many different types of knee braces available, it can take time to figure out which one is right for you and your needs.
That’s why we’ve put together this guide to help you determine which knee brace is the best for volleyball players. We’ll provide an overview of what types of braces are available, which we recommend, and explain why certain features make a big difference in your performance and comfort on and off the court.
Selecting a Knee Brace for Volleyball
When selecting the best knee brace for volleyball, several factors should be taken into consideration, including:
Level of Protection
This will depend on the severity of your injury or discomfort. If you are looking for a knee brace to prevent an injury, choose one with adjustable straps that provide adequate protection and mobility. If you are recovering from an injury, always choose a knee brace with the maximum protection.
Level of Support
Ensure the knee brace is snug and secure so that it can provide the most stability during lateral movements and jumps — the more stable the brace, the better. If a knee brace is too big or small, this can impact its overall effectiveness.
Overall Mobility
Look for a brace with adjustable straps or dials that allow you to easily adjust the fit as needed and won’t constrict your movement or range of motion. You will be less likely to wear or enjoy wearing a knee brace that restricts your movement.
Breathability
You’ll want a knee brace that lets air circulate and helps keep sweat away from your skin. Look for braces made of breathable materials such as neoprene or mesh. Non-breathable knee braces can create an environment for rashes, odor, and bacteria.
Comfort & Adjustability
Comfort should be a top priority when selecting a knee brace. Look for one with cushioning around the knee joint that won’t pinch or rub when you move. If your knee brace isn’t comfortable, you’re less likely to wear it, which defeats the purpose.
Durability
A good knee brace will last through multiple seasons of playing, so pick one made from high-quality materials that can withstand the wear and tear of your sport and your life overall.
Use all of these criteria as a compass to guide you toward the perfect knee brace for your situation. You can seek recommendations from peers, online, and from your doctor, but you will know which knee brace is right for you when you see it.
Why is a Quality Knee Brace Important?
A quality knee brace can make a huge difference in your performance on the court and in your recovery or prevention efforts. Not only will it provide extra support and stability, but it can also help minimize risks of injury while playing. It can also help reduce pain and swelling during and after games.
In addition, a good knee brace can give you more confidence when playing the game. Moving freely and confidently makes all the difference. Investing in a quality knee brace is essential in protecting your knees while playing volleyball. With the right one, you can enjoy the game without worrying about injury, strain, or discomfort.
The Best Knee Braces for Volleyball
It’s difficult to choose a single knee brace as each individual’s situation is unique; however, using our expertise in this field, we have narrowed down the top 5 types of knee braces that we find to be the best in order of top to bottom. Below are some different knee braces available for volleyball. We’ve listed them in order of best features and benefits so you can choose the one that’s right for your needs.
1. Unloader Knee Braces
Unloader knee braces are one of the best options for athletes. The Ascender Unloader Knee Brace by Icarus Medical is a custom 3D-printed brace designed for athletes, persons with serious injuries, and those with arthritis.
It’s lightweight and offers maximum protection while keeping you flexible and mobile on the court. Capable of unloading 40 lbs from your knee joint, users of the Ascender knee brace report a 59% decrease in pain, a 37% improvement in function, and an 87% increase in overall activity levels while wearing it.
2. Neoprene Knee Braces
Neoprene knee braces provide moderate protection and support for the knee joint during lateral movements and jumps. They are also generally breathable, comfortable, and adjustable, making them an ideal option for volleyball players.
3. Hinged Knee Braces
Hinged braces offer adjustable straps and a locking mechanism for extra stability. These are good for athletes with previous knee injuries who need more support when playing. The only downside is the lack of mobility, which, in the case of athletes, may be a dealbreaker.
4. Compressive Knee Sleeves
These sleeves provide compression, warmth, and light support for the knee joint. They are good for athletes looking to minimize acute pain and discomfort during games. However, note that compression knee sleeves are the least supportive and preventative option available.
5. Patella Knee Braces
Patella braces offer extra protection to the kneecap, helping to reduce pain and inflammation. They are an option for athletes with pre-existing knee issues or those looking to prevent them. One con is that patella knee braces can place pressure on the knee joint during physical activity, making them unsuitable for some.
Which Knee Brace is Right for You?
Overall, unloader knee braces are the best option for reducing pain, preventing injuries, and stabilizing the knee. We recommend the Ascender Unloader Knee Brace as the best overall knee brace for volleyball. It offers superior protection, mobility, and comfort while also providing an unparalleled level of support. Its lightweight and breathable design makes it an ideal choice for athletes of all levels.
So, if you want to keep your knees safe and healthy on and off the court, the Ascender is worth considering. To learn more about how the Ascender Unloader Knee Brace can help you with your knee issues and return to the volleyball court, contact our team of experts today.
