Brittany Loggins is a freelance writer for Verywell Health, who has covered everything from wellness to politics. She has a degree in journalism from University of Georgia and lives in New York City.

Marissa Sansone, MD, is a board-certified doctor of internal medicine and a current fellow in rheumatology at Yale University. She actively teaches rheumatology to medical residents and students, and peer-reviews abstracts in the journal Rheumatology.

James Lacy, MLS, is a fact-checker and researcher. James received a Master of Library Science degree from Dominican University.

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Whether you're experiencing knee pain or have undergone surgery, wearing a knee brace can provide stabilization and prevent further wear and tear. “There are a wide variety of knee braces to choose from—everything from simple knee sleeves to more rigid braces that may have some metal or hard plastic support and a hinge that allows the knee to bend,” says Jim McGahee, PT, DPT, a doctor of physical therapy.

The EzyFit Support Dual Stabilizers and Open Patella Knee Brace has anti-slip straps to keep the brace in place. Made with antimicrobial material, Mueller Sports Medicine Adjustable Hinged Knee Brace eliminates odors during a run.

The knee brace you choose will depend on your lifestyle needs. Dr. McGahee says that post-surgical braces are prescribed by a healthcare provider so they can determine the amount of movement necessary. The other types of knee brace can be purchased over-the-counter.

We researched dozens of knee braces and evaluated them for the following attributes: adjustability, cost, material, durability, sizing, and fit. Each of the knee braces chosen in this article was determined to be the best of these factors.

Here are the best knee braces for arthritis on the market today.

Open spot for the patella

Velcro may be slightly uncomfortable to some

The EzyFit knee brace has anti-slip straps that are bi-directional and can keep the brace in place for long periods of time, making it the best overall option. It has an open spot at the patella, which is great for relieving any symptoms of tendonitis or patellofemoral-related pressure or pain. It’s also ideal for those who are working past injuries or need support on their journey to recovery after surgery. 

Made of neoprene, nylon, and polyester, the brace is super easy to wash and wear. What's more, it comes in three different sizes.

Material: Neoprene, nylon, and polyester | Fit: Adjustable, comes in three different sizes | Feel: Soft and secure enough to exercise and workout in

Not only is this brace cost-effective, it’s super supportive. It’s perfect for those who are looking to maintain proper patella alignment during physical activities, as it’s self-adjusting and durable. It features straps that adhere in a criss-crossing pattern located both above and below the knee, so it’s sure to stay in place as you’re moving around. 

It’s also made of antimicrobial material that works to eliminate odors, and it has an open back that won't bunch up. It also has hinges on either side of the knee, which extend and support the knee to prevent hyperextension.

Material: Antimicrobial fiber that helps eliminate odors | Fit: Self-adjustable, open back and front patella hole | Feel: Soft fabric, metal plates on sides covered by fabric

Comes in multiple sizes; measure for best fit

Antimicrobial technology reduces odor causing bacteria

Fits over left or right knee

Has tabs to help pull on, but not ones that help pull it off

You can tell from looking at this brace that it’s heavy-duty—and it really is. It has bilateral hinges that allow for ample movement while still providing the support you need. It also has side stabilizers that are super flexible so you never feel weighed down. 

This brace also has super grip tabs so that it’s easy to get on and fitted properly. It works to lift and compress the knee so that you experience improved blood flow. It’s also great for people with arthritis, hypertension, patella instability, meniscus injuries, or minor ligament sprains.

Material: Neoprene, vented | Fit: X-Fit strap provides stability by wrapping lag with cushioned comfort strap | Feel: Soft, cushioned

Adjustable straps to ensure perfect fit

Designed with six flexible springs for support

Velcro placement may be uncomfortable

It can be unnecessarily difficult to find the correct sizing, but this brace eliminates all of those worries. It comes in an XL through 6XL and relieves pressure enough to provide immediate pain relief. It contains six built-in steel springs, which are intended to provide extra stability. This brace is designed with activities in mind—so don’t you worry about putting too much pressure on it. 

While there is an extensive sizing guide available, there are also adjustable straps that will help you personally tailor the amount of pressure that’s put on your knee and patella. The brace is made of neoprene, nylon, and spandex, and is specifically formulated with materials that are intended to reduce smell and bacteria buildup.

Material: Neoprene, nylon, and spandex | Fit: Adjustable | Feel: Cushioned support

Varus-valgus corrector that tailors to you needs

Metal hinge adjustable with tools only

May be too heavy-duty for minor injuries/needs

The goal of unloader knee braces is to shift pressure off of the injured part of your knee. This one is completely adjustable and features a varus-valgus correction that allows you to tailor it entirely to your knee. It also has an adjustable dial and flexion sliders, both of which work to add stability and support.

Material: Non-slip fabric | Fit: Adjustable | Feel: Open, flexible feel minimal fabric padded under metal braces

3D knitting technology that provides stable pressure for knee

No patella or back hole

Completely covered material may not be comfortable for everyone

If you’re thinking of trying a knee brace for the first time, McGahee says that sleeves are the place to start, especially if you aren’t sure if the knee brace is for you. “Start with a sleeve since they are usually very cheap and if it helps, great,” says McGahee, adding that if it doesn't help, you haven't wasted a ton of money.

This brace is made of anti-slip silicone so you don’t have to worry about it moving around. It evenly distributes pressure in order to reduce swelling and inflammation while improving blood flow.

Material: 65% Nylon, 20% latex, and 15% spandex | Fit: Different sizes, snug fit | Feel: Durable elastic material provides flexibility and breathability

Allows for full range of motion

Features no-slip silicone grip to keep it from sliding around

Pull on-design may be difficult for some people to place on

Since this sleeve is made of a nylon-lycra blend, it’s super breathable and provides a four-way stretch. While it will definitely provide your knee with a lot of support, it also allows for a full range of motion. It’s super snug and has a no-slip silicone grip that will keep it in place.

Material: Nylon-lycra blend | Fit: Comes in different sizes | Feel: Comfortable stretch and breathable fabric feel

If you're new to braces, the Mueller Adjustable Hinged Knee Brace (view at Amazon) is an affordable way to try one out. But if you know your knee braces and want one that has a little more support, EzyFit Knee Brace (view at Amazon) is another good option and is our best overall pick.

4.8 to 5 stars: These are the best knee braces for arthritis we reviewed. We recommend them without reservation.

4.5 to 4.7 stars: These knee braces for arthritis are excellent—they might have minor flaws, but we still recommend them.

4.0 to 4.5 stars: We think these are great knee braces for arthritis, but others are better.

3.5 to 3.9 stars: These knee braces for arthritis are just average.

3.4 and below: We don't recommend knee braces for arthritis with this rating; you won't find any on our list.

There are three main types of knee braces: a compression, sleeve-like brace, a brace that features metal hinges, and, as mentioned previously, a brace with an open hole cut out for your knee. A compression sleeve brace is good for reducing inflammation and can be good for sleeping since it’ll prevent your knee from moving (and straining further) while you sleep. However, for arthritis, you typically want to look for a knee brace that allows for a full range of motion and doesn’t limit mobility or cause stiffness. 

Some of the most common materials you’ll see in arthritis knee braces are neoprene, polyester, and nylon. If your knee brace has hinges, it may feature some metal components on the sides. Whichever fabric or material you choose entirely depends on what’s most comfortable for you. Traditional neoprene is not breathable, but it is thermal and helps provide extra insulation. Depending on how it feels on your skin or the weather outside, you may want to adjust the type of material you use. Some braces are made out of vented neoprene, which allows for more airflow and even moisture-wicking capabilities. Lightweight neoprene may also be a more breathable option. Consider your needs, the climate, and any allergies to materials before making your decision. 

Most knee braces you can buy online come in different sizes or are sized to different genders. Compression “sleeve” knee braces, may have to be chosen to more exact sizing, whereas wrap-around type braces are able to be personally adjusted to your knee size. 

Knee braces with hinges are typically worn post-surgery. “Knee braces are typically used for protective or stabilizing functions,” says Vikram Sathyendra, MD, a New Jersey-based orthopedic surgeon. He also specializes in orthopedics. “I typically use braces after a sprain of one of the collateral ligaments in the knee (the ligaments on the side of the knee) or post-surgery to protect a ligament repair. I also use patellofemoral braces to improve tracking of the patella (kneecap) and reduce anterior knee pain in patellofemoral syndrome.” 

In rare cases, your doctor may suggest a custom knee brace that can suit your exact needs.

According to Dr. Sathyendra, “evidence is pretty mixed and inconclusive in terms of using a brace for arthritis in the knee.” If you find a knee brace does help alleviate your arthritis pain, make sure you let your doctor know you’ve decided to wear one, and closely monitor the usage together.

“Typically, knee arthritis affects the inside part of the knee,” says Dr. Sathyendra. “Logically, offloading this part of the joint and putting more pressure on the outside part of the knee should alleviate some of the pain and stress. However, there is no study which shows that offloading braces, designed to re-align the leg back into place and lessen the pressure on knee joints, actually work.”  

Knee braces can actually make your knee stiffer, so if you notice the opposite effect that the brace is supposed to have—i.e. limited mobility—make sure to stop wearing it and consult with your doctor immediately. “By offloading one part of the knee joint, we are now putting more of a load onto another part of the knee joint. If there is already arthritis in the outside part of the knee, we can aggravate that part of the knee,” says Dr. Sathyendra.  

“This depends on the injury,” says Dr. Vikrum Sathyendra, MD. A minor sprain typically needs two weeks whereas a post-surgery knee brace may require up to three months. If you notice your brace is limiting your range of motion or causing joints to increasingly stiffen, stop using and contact your doctor.

If this is recommended by your doctor, yes. Make sure to pay attention to any stiffening or limited range of motion that occurs as a result of wearing a knee brace. Most doctors don’t recommend sleeping in them, but if you need it to stabilize your knee after surgery, then use it.

“Except in trauma situations, where you want to look for knee immobilizers for a fracture, I would look for knee braces that are not bulky and allow for range of motion of the knee. For patellofemoral syndrome, I would recommend a sleeve rather than an actual brace with metal hinges.”—Vikram Sathyendra, M.D., orthopedic surgeon based in New Jersey

An experienced health writer, Brittany Loggins understands how important it is to have a comprehensive understanding of the products she's recommending. All of the products found in her pieces have either been tested by her first hand or have been recommended by trusted medical professionals.

Additional reporting for this story by Brittany Leitner

As a health writer with over eight years of experience, Brittany Leitner understands how important access to information is when it comes to making educated health decisions. She has interviewed dozens of medical experts, tested out hundreds of products, and aims to provide quality recommendations that won't break the bank.

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Ghorbani E, Hasani H, Rafeian H, Hashemibeni B. Analysis of the thermal comfort and impact properties of the neoprene-spacer fabric structure for preventing the joint damages. Int J Prev Med. 2013;4(7):761-766.

American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. Arthritis of the knee.

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