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    How to Measure for Knee Sleeves + Exclusive Tips

    How to Measure for Knee Sleeves?

    Knowing how to measure for knee sleeves correctly is crucial for achieving the perfect fit and optimal support during your workouts. This guide walks you through each step, ensuring you can select the most suitable size for your needs.

    Jul 10,2023   |    2 Mins Read

    TABLE OF CONTENTS

    Have you ever experienced knee pain during or after a workout? Or maybe you're looking for some extra support to enhance your athletic performance? Knee sleeves might be the answer you're looking for. But before you rush to buy, it's essential to understand what they are and how to properly measure your knee to get the perfect fit. Let's dive into the details.

    Key Takeaways:

    • Knee sleeves should be snug but not too tight. They should not restrict your range of motion or cause discomfort. You should be able to fit two fingers between the knee sleeve and your skin.
    • Knee sleeves should not slide down your leg when you're moving. They should stay in place even when you're squatting, lunging, or doing other exercises.
    • Knee sleeves should not cut off your circulation. If you feel numbness or tingling in your leg, the knee sleeve is too tight.
    • If you're between sizes, it's generally recommended to size down. Quality knee sleeves are expected to stretch slightly over time, so it's better to have a snug fit than a loose one.
    • Knee sleeves should not slide down your leg. They should stay in place even when you're moving around.
    • Knee sleeves should not be too hot. They should be breathable and allow your skin to breathe.
    • Knee sleeves should not be too bulky. They should be comfortable to wear and not interfere with your movements.


    How to Measure for Knee Sleeves: Step-by-Step Guide

    Accurate measurement is vital when it comes to knee sleeves. If they're too tight, they can restrict blood flow and cause discomfort. If they're too loose, they won't provide the necessary support or benefits of knee compression sleeves. Proper measurement ensures optimal comfort and performance.

    Step 1: Get a soft tape measure

    Soft tape measures are flexible, making them perfect for measuring body parts. They're readily available in sewing kits or online.

    Step 2: Stand up straight and extend your leg

    When measuring your knee for a sleeve, it's important to stand up straight and extend your leg. This will provide an accurate measurement of the circumference of your knee.

    Step 3: Measure around the center of your kneecap

    Wrap the tape measure around the widest part of your knee, usually directly over your kneecap. Hold the tape snugly, but not too tightly under your kneecap. Make sure the tape goes all the way around, and stop when your finger meets your thumb.

    Step 4: Measure the circumference of your thigh

    For a properly fitting knee sleeve, you'll also need to measure the circumference of your thigh. Start 4 inches above your kneecap and wrap the tape measure snugly all the way around your thigh. 

    Step 5: Write down your measurement

    Once you get the measurement, write it down using inches or centimeter. You don't want to forget it!

    Step 6: Compare your measurement to the sizing chart

    Each brand may have a slightly different sizing chart. Make sure you compare your measurements to the specific brand's sizing chart you're planning to buy from.

    Step 7: Order the size that's closest to your measurement

    Finally, select the size closest to your measurement. If you're in between sizes, it's usually safer to go for the larger one to ensure comfort.


    Additional Things to Keep in Mind When Measuring for Knee Sleeves

    Thickness of Knee Sleeves

    Thickness matters! A thicker sleeve provides more support but less mobility, while a thinner sleeve offers the opposite. Generally, they come in 2mm, 3mm, 5mm, and 7mm thicknesses.

    • 2mm and 3mm knee sleeves: These are the thinnest options available. They provide a minimal level of support and compression. These sleeves are perfect for light exercises and activities, such as cycling or jogging.
    • 5mm knee sleeves: A great all-around choice. They offer a balanced mix of support and flexibility, making them suitable for various exercises like CrossFit, weightlifting, and high-intensity interval training (HIIT).
    • 7mm knee sleeves: These are the thickest knee sleeves and provide the most substantial support and compression. They are ideal for heavy-duty activities like powerlifting, heavy squats, and other exercises that put considerable strain on the knees.

    Material of Knee Sleeves

    Even after prolonged and regular usage, quality knee sleeves retain their elasticity and continue to deliver the compression necessary for enhanced performance and safety.


    While these sleeves may seem a bit snug at first and require a slight pull to fit them over your knees, this is actually a good thing. Lower-quality knee sleeves, typically made from less durable materials, might stretch out over time, diminishing their supportive and protective abilities.


    Koprez knee sleeves has a tri-combination of nylon, spandex, and latex-silk which you won't find in any other product. Our knee sleeves has been tested by athletes and certified for maximum performance, comfort, and durability.

    Your Activity Level

    Are you a marathon runner, or do you prefer low-intensity activities? Depending on the type of exercise you are doing and how often you work out, there is an ideal knee sleeve for your needs.


    If you are engaging in light activities like walking or jogging, a 2mm or 3mm knee sleeve is typically sufficient. For more intense exercises such as CrossFit or powerlifting, a snugger fit is often preferred. In this case, you should opt for a 5mm or 7mm knee sleeve.


    As you adjust your workouts, your knee sleeve requirements might also change. If you're unsure whether to use knee sleeves or knee wraps, it's worth considering the benefits of each and how they align with your fitness goals. 

    Your Weight Loss or Weight Gain Plan

    Do you plan to lose or gain weight in the next coming months? If so, keep this in mind when selecting your knee sleeve size. You may want to order a slightly bigger or smaller size depending on your goals.


    Frequently Asked Questions About Knee Sleeves

    Where should I measure my knee? Should I measure it at the kneecap or the calf?

    You should measure your knee around the middle of your kneecap, not the calf. This is because knee sleeves are designed to support the knee joint, which is best achieved by taking the measurement at the kneecap.

    How tight should knee sleeves be?

    Knee sleeves should be snug but not too tight. They should allow for some freedom of movement while providing support to the joint.

    What if my measurements are between sizes? Should I size up or down?

    If your measurements fall between two sizes, it's generally better to size up. A size too small may be uncomfortably tight and restrict movement, whereas a size too big will still provide some level of support.

    What if I have two different-sized knees?

    If you have two different-sized knees, it's best to measure each knee and purchase the corresponding size for each knee. This will ensure that each knee gets the appropriate level of support and compression.

    Author

    Claire Evans worked as the content marketing manager at Koprez. Claire combined a background of writing and editing, marketing, and patient education to best serve consumers, fitness enthusiasts, athletes, and anyone who relies on the Koprez brand for helpful information.


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