7 Best Knee Sleeves for CrossFit (#1 Will Break Your PR)
By Evander Nelson | Updated on June 22, 2023
Iron Bull Knee Sleeves
Evander’s Quick Summary 💭
🥁 Drum roll please… 🥁
After extensive experience and a couple of wrong turns (let’s not talk about the knee wrap incident), I’ve landed on the Iron Bull Strength 7mm Knee wraps as my #1 choice.
These beauties are the bee’s knees (see what I did there? 😂) when it comes to combining compression, support, quality, and comfort.
They are specially designed for people with knee joint pain who want to speed up their recovery. Or folks who like doing squats and just want a pair of awesome CrossFit knee sleeves.
I review products independently but I might earn affiliate commissions if you decide to buy items through links on this page.
We’ve all had those “Oh, my knees!” moments after a CrossFit workout, right?
Picture this: You’ve crushed your WOD, feeling like a CrossFit deity, but then your knees start to protest.
Ouch! Don’t worry, you’re not alone in this. For over 5 years I have been on the lookout for the best knee sleeves for CrossFit and let me tell you: I ve finally found them!
These knee-saving wonders offer just the right mix of support, compression, and style.
So, if you’re ready to level up your CrossFit game, without the post-workout knee drama, stick around.
Your knees will be eternally grateful!
Top things I look for when reviewing Knee Sleeves for CrossFit
| Compression | Offers good compression to reduce chances of injury |
| Support | Offers good support so you can lift heavier. |
| Quality | Made of quality materials that keep your knees warm |
| Comfort | Should fit snug and not move during workout |
So, What’s This Knee Sleeve Deal in CrossFit, Anyway?
Simply put, a knee sleeve for CrossFit is like a superhero cape for your knees. Except, instead of making you fly, it provides protection and support to your knee joint.
These fashionable little accessories, usually made from neoprene material, are designed to snugly fit over your knee.
Wearing knee sleeves during CrossFit can be a game-changer but more on that later.
What Are The Best Knee Sleeves for CrossFit?
My Top Rankings
#1 Iron Bull Knee Sleeves – Best Overall
Compression
Support
Quality
Comfort
Compression
Imagine this: a hug for your knees that’s warm, reassuring, and above all, does not squeeze the life out of them.
That’s the level of compression you get from Iron Bull Knee Sleeves.
They’re crafted with top-notch SCR neoprene, providing outstanding compression while being priced affordably compared to their peers.
Support
Now, let’s talk length.
Ever found yourself wishing for a couple of extra inches? (of knee support, I mean 😏)
At an impressive 11.5″, these neoprene knee sleeves stand taller than most competitors, enveloping your knee with a loving embrace and offering added support essential for those intense CrossFit sessions.
Quality
These sleeves have been sculpted using a 3-D design process, which basically means they contour to your knees like they were custom-made for you.
This excellent fit ensures superb knee compression and support, while still maintaining the comfort factor.
It’s like Cinderella’s slipper of knee sleeves, but for both knees, not just one.
Comfort
Once you’ve got your knee sleeve on, it is not going anywhere.
The double silicone gel straps keep them locked in place, even during the sweatiest CrossFit workouts.
So, you won’t need to pause your workout to adjust them, giving you one less excuse for taking that breath break. 🏋️♀️🥵
Tech Specs
| Length | 11.5″ |
| Thickness | 7 mm |
| Material | SCR Neoprene |
| Sport Type | CrossFit / Weightlifting / Powerlifting / Bodybuilding |
Evander’s take:
I’m a fan of the Iron Bull knee Sleeves. It’s like they’ve found the golden mean between comfort and support, and my knees have never felt better during workouts. 💪
What I like most about these knee sleeves is the fact that they are specially designed for doing squats, which is the major reason I started my quest for the best knee sleeves in the first place.
Pros
Cons
Bottom Line
All in all, I truly believe that the Iron Bull knee sleeves are the top pick for those seeking the best knee sleeves for CrossFit.
They check all the boxes: compression, support, quality, and comfort.
But most importantly, they help me and my knees stay in the game longer, even when the WOD (workout of the day) is tough.
And as a bonus, they come in 7 mm thick, making them thicker sleeves than most competitors. especially handy when you want to keep your knees warm during the winter.
Remember, your knees aren’t just hinges in your legs—they’re the key to crushing your fitness goals! 💯🎯
#2 Rogue Fitness Knee Sleeves – Best Comfortable
Compression
Support
Quality
Comfort
Compression
Rogue Fitness knee sleeves really know how to deliver when it comes to compression.
Each knee sleeve offers a range of sizes—3 mm, 5 mm, and 7 mm—that cater to different workout intensities.
Think of them as your personal CrossFit buffet, offering just the right amount of compression you need, based on your chosen CrossFit flavor of the day. Yum! 😋
Support
When we are talking about supportive knee sleeves, these are definitely one of the best knee sleeves I have ever tried.
Each knee brace is like a solid wingman for your CrossFit sessions.
They’re there when you need them, whether you’re doing heart-pumping cardio or lifting weights that make the Hulk look like a weakling.
Each knee sleeve got your back… or in this case, your knees!
Quality
When it comes to quality, the Rogue Fitness knee sleeves are top-drawer stuff.
Why, you ask? When I first tried them on, I could just tell they were thicker knee sleeves than their peers.
Picture a blend of neoprene and SBR—like the super comfy PJs that also miraculously withstand hundreds of washes.
That’s right, they’re not just comfy; they’re resilient and built to last. 💪
Comfort
Speaking of comfort, these knee sleeves fit so well, you’ll think they were made just for you.
The contoured seams and flexible compression material make sure they’re snug but not restrictive, staying in place even during the most intense workouts.
It’s like having a comfy pair of shoes but for your knees. 👟
Tech Specs
| Length | Unspecified |
| Thickness | 3 mm, 5 mm, 7 mm |
| Material | SBR / Neoprene |
| Sport Type | Agility and Endurance / Functional Training / Olympic and Heavy Lifting / CrossFit |
Evander’s take:
From my perspective, these Rogue Fitness Knee Sleeves are the bee’s knees!
They offer a range of options to tailor the fit and compression to your needs, which I think is fantastic.
It’s like they’ve personalized the best knee sleeves for CrossFit. 👏
Pros
Cons
Bottom Line
In summary, the Rogue Fitness Knee Sleeves are like a tailored suit for your knees.
They provide a high-quality, versatile option for those who need a range of compression levels in their CrossFit routines.
Though they may require a little investment, the value they offer in comfort, support, and durability makes them a strong contender in the best knee sleeve arena.
#3 Stoic Knee Sleeves – Best Powerlifting
Compression
Support
Quality
Comfort
Compression
Stoic Knee Sleeves are no less than a powerlifter’s dream come true, and believe me, I’ve been living this dream since 2019.
Their 7mm thickness, almost like a hug from a teddy bear, provides just the right compression for your squats. 🐻
It’s like each knee sleeve struck the Goldilocks sweet spot of ‘just right.’
Support
Unlike most knee sleeves that call themselves “a supportive knee sleeve”, these ones stand head and shoulders above the rest, and I don’t say that lightly.
They’re extra-long at 11.8″, which means each knee sleeve offers more coverage and support above and below the knee than other knee sleeves.
It’s almost like your knee has its own bodyguard squad.
Pretty cool, huh?
Quality
Quality-wise, Stoic Knee Sleeves are like the evergreen oak tree, strong and long-lasting.
I’ve been using these knee sleeves quite heavily for a few years, and they’ve been nothing short of excellent.
Even some top powerlifting federations like IPF, USAPL, and USPA give these knee sleeves their seal of approval. ✅
Comfort
Comfort is where the Stoic Knee Sleeves really shine.
The single reinforced seam is cleverly placed on the side rather than the back, making them more comfortable to wear.
Also, the minimal build-up behind the kneecap is like having your personal knee concierge that ensures you don’t get distracted during your lifts.
Tech Specs
| Length | 11.8″ |
| Thickness | 7mm |
| Material | Neoprene |
| Sport Type | Powerlifting |
Evander’s take:
As a heavy user of Stoic Knee Sleeves since 2019, I can’t sing enough praises about them.
They’re like the rockstar of my powerlifting journey, providing excellent compression, support, and comfort while lasting like a champ.
Pros
Cons
Bottom Line
If you’re a powerlifter looking for a knee sleeve that can match your strength, then stoic knee sleeves are your best bet.
They offer excellent compression, superior support, and unparalleled durability, all wrapped up in a comfortable design.
Sure, they might be a bit tricky to put on at first but trust me, once they’re on, they’ll boost your lifts like you wouldn’t believe.
#4 Rehband Knee Sleeves – Best for Squats
Compression
Support
Quality
Comfort
Compression
When it comes to compression, these Rehband knee sleeves are nothing short of brilliant.
I’ve found the 5mm thickness to be the sweet spot, offering enough squeeze to keep my knee joint stable without feeling like a boa constrictor’s got ahold of my leg. 🐍
Support
Now, onto the support.
The anatomically designed knee sleeves move with your body, so it feels like your knee is getting a warm, supportive hug while you’re busting out your CrossFit moves.
This design ensures they don’t slip, which is great because, let’s face it, no one wants to stop mid-burpee to adjust their knee sleeves. 😅
Quality
The quality of these knee sleeves is top-notch, just as you’d expect from a company with over half a century of industry experience.
They are designed to last and to withstand high-intensity workouts, making them a reliable companion for your CrossFit journey.
Comfort
Now let’s talk about comfort and boy, do these sleeves deliver! The longer, more flexible design is perfect for high-intensity cardio workouts.
Plus, they’re as snug as a bug in a rug, thanks to their anatomical design, which ensures even compression throughout the whole length of the sleeve.
I wouldn’t say they are as comfortable as the knee sleeves from Rogue, but they sure come close!
Tech Specs
| Length | 10″ |
| Thickness | 5 mm, 7mm |
| Material | Neoprene |
| Sport Type | CrossFit / Powerlifting / Fitness Training |
Evander’s take:
In my opinion, these Rehband knee sleeves are like a secret weapon for CrossFit.
I mean, who doesn’t want an accessory that moves with your body, doesn’t slip, and comes in a plethora of fun colors?
I’ve recommended them to quite a few of my gym buddies, and they’ve all been raving about them. 🙌
Pros
Cons
Bottom Line
The Rehband knee sleeves are a fantastic choice for anyone who takes their CrossFit workouts seriously. Their unique anatomical design, coupled with high-quality materials and a supportive 5mm thickness, makes them a reliable and comfortable choice for knee protection. If you’re on the lookout for the best knee sleeve that pairs style with functionality, then these might just be your perfect match! 💪🎯#5 Bear KompleX Knee Sleeves – Best Beginner
Compression
Support
Quality
Comfort
Compression
The compression these knee sleeves provide is good, akin to a perfectly snug winter hat.
They’re available in 4mm, making them less thick than their competitors.
On the flip side, I do notice there is way more room for my knees to breathe in comparison to 7 or even 5 mm.
Support
Bear KompleX sleeves are supportive, like your best buddy.
They provide the type of stability you’d want from a trusted sidekick during those intense workouts, making them ideal for weightlifting or squatting. 💪
Quality
These sleeves are made from an intriguing blend of bamboo charcoal fiber and neoprene, which is unique, to say the least!
While the quality may not be quite at the level of our good friends at Rogue, it still holds its own.
Just like a bit of TLC can keep an old car running smoothly, some careful maintenance can help these sleeves last.
Comfort
Comfort? Oh, they’re all about it.
These knee sleeves are cozy, soft, and warm, like the finest pair of luxury slippers you could put on your knees.
Plus, the reversible feature means double the fashion fun, adding a unique spin to your workout ensemble.
Tech Specs
| Length | 10” / 13” |
| Thickness | 4mm |
| Material | Bamboo charcoal fiber and Neoprene |
| Sport Type | CrossFit / Fitness Training / Beginner |
Evander’s take:
As someone who enjoys a dash of flair in her workout gear, I have a soft spot for the Bear KompleX sleeves.
The reversible feature? Love it!
The bamboo charcoal fiber and neoprene combo? Totally cool.
And while they may require a little extra TLC, I think they’re still a valuable addition to any workout wardrobe.
I would definitely recommend them to beginners since they are cheap and simply get the job done.
Pros
Cons
Bottom Line
Bear KompleX Knee Sleeves bring a unique blend of style, comfort, and support to the table.
With their colorful and reversible design, they’re ideal for those who like to keep their workout gear as vibrant as their routines.
However, it’s crucial to keep in mind that these knee sleeves might need some extra care to maintain their quality.
If you’re in the market for a bit of fun in your knee sleeve selection, Bear KompleX could be right up your alley! 🎉🐻
#6 ProFitness Knee Sleeves – Best for Knee Injuries
Compression
Support
Quality
Comfort
Compression
The ProFitness knee sleeves are a powerhouse in terms of compression.
With their 7 mm thick neoprene material, they’re ready to give your knees a nice squeeze, kind of like that super-energetic aunt at family reunions.
This compression is all about pumping up the blood flow and keeping your knees toasty and limber for those power-packed CrossFit workouts. 💥
Support
In terms of support, these knee sleeves are the real MVPs.
The sturdy nylon thread ensures these sleeves cling onto your knees during those heavy lifts like a determined barnacle.
They’re in it for the long haul, reducing the risk of knee injuries, and cheering you on in your workout journey. 🏋️♂️👏
Quality
When we talk about quality, ProFitness knee sleeves deliver in spades.
The strong nylon thread stitching and the robust neoprene material shout ‘durability’ louder than a concert speaker.
It’s like they were forged in the fires of Mount Olympus, ready to survive those grueling workout sessions right along with you. 🔨🏔️
Comfort
These knee sleeves offer comfort like a favorite pair of sweatpants on a Sunday afternoon.
Their design ensures they hug your skin snugly during your high-intensity workouts without any awkward adjustments.
Plus, with six different color options available, you can even coordinate them with your gym outfit.
Now that’s what I call a fashion statement!
Tech Specs
| Length | 11″ |
| Thickness | 7 mm |
| Material | Neoprene |
| Sport Type | Weightlifting / CrossFit / Powerlifting / Knee Injuries |
Evander’s take:
In my humble opinion, ProFitness knee sleeves are like the Usain Bolt of knee support – ready to win the race and do it in style.
The mix of high compression, staunch support, and unyielding quality all packed into a comfy fit makes them a winner in my book.
Plus, the color options add just the right dash of pizzazz. 🏁🌟
Pros
Cons
Bottom Line
ProFitness knee sleeves bring their A-game to the field of workout gear. They deliver stellar compression and support, without compromising on quality or comfort.
Their robust design and durability make them perfect for CrossFit or any other high-intensity training.
If you want to safeguard your knees and look good while doing it, these sleeves could be your knight in shining armor!
Or, in this case, your warrior in radiant neoprene! 🛡🤺
#7 Gymreapers Knee Sleeves – Best Bodybuilding
Compression
Support
Quality
Comfort
Compression
Have you ever craved a warm blanket around your knees during a cold, intense workout?
Gymreapers Knee Sleeves are exactly that – but even better. They wrap around your knees, providing a snug compression courtesy of their 7mm neoprene material.
Like a self-heating pad, they retain warmth to ward off muscle stiffness, keeping your knee joint jovial and spry!
Support
These sleeves offer sturdy support for your knees, much like a reliable sidekick in your favorite superhero movie.
Built with reinforced stitching, they’re designed to withstand even the most dynamic CrossFit movements.
Just like Batman needs Robin, your knees need Gymreapers Knee Sleeves!
Quality
As with any product made by athletes for athletes, the Gymreapers Knee Sleeves boast stellar quality.
They’re like that really reliable friend who’s always on time; they’ve been thoroughly tested and are guaranteed to perform as promised.
Quality check? Passed with flying colors!
Comfort
These sleeves are as cozy as a marshmallow in hot cocoa, thanks to their neoprene material.
They stick close to your skin, providing comfortable compression without causing any discomfort.
Talk about having your cake and eating it too! 🍰
Tech Specs
| Length | 10″ |
| Thickness | 7 mm |
| Material | Neoprene |
| Sport Type | Bodybuilding / Powerlifting / Weightlifting |
Evander’s take:
In my honest opinion, the Gymreapers Knee Sleeves are the bee’s knees (pun very much intended)! 😄
They bring the heat with their warming compression, offer sturdy support, and exude quality and comfort. The cherry on top is the handy carry bag – it’s like they’ve thought of everything!