How to choose a knee support

Knee supports come in three broad families. A knitted or neoprene sleeve wraps the whole knee and gives compression and warmth; it is the lightest option and the easiest to wear under clothes. A patella support adds a ring or pad around the kneecap to hold it steady during activity. A hinged brace has stiff side bars or a joint that limit sideways movement; it is the firmest option and the bulkiest.

If a doctor or physiotherapist has told you which type to get, that decides it. If not, think about the situation: everyday comfort and warmth points to a sleeve, sport or long walks to a patella support, and a knee that gives way or needs holding still points to a hinged brace. When in doubt, message us and describe what you want the support for, not what you think is wrong.

Stand with the leg straight and relaxed. Pass a soft tape measure around the middle of the kneecap, flat and snug but not tight, and note the number in centimetres. Every knee support on this site shows the manufacturer's own size chart, so compare your measurement with that chart rather than guessing from your clothing size.

If the knee is swollen, measure at the time of day you will wear the support. If you fall between two sizes, tell us both numbers and we will advise.

Most sleeves fit either leg. Hinged and some patella braces are made for one side, and the product page will ask you to choose left or right before you can order. Choose the side of the knee that needs the support, not the hand you write with.

A knee support should feel snug and stay in place when you walk, without pinching behind the knee or leaving deep marks. If it slides down, it is too big or worn too low. If your foot tingles or changes colour, it is too tight: take it off and choose a larger size.