The Best Elbow Braces
Maybe it's an old sports injury flaring up. Maybe you pitched a little too fast during company-wide softball. Maybe you're just getting old — hey, it happens to the best of us. Whatever it is, you don't want to be that person who can't do fun things because of "a bad elbow." Enter the elbow brace. These practical braces can increase blood flow and provide stability. We've rounded up some of the best elbow braces on the market from slim-fitting sleeves that can slide seamlessly under clothing to immobilization braces that offer support overnight.
Tomight Two-Pack Elbow Brace with Compression Pad
Simple meets effective
These elbow braces from Tomight may not look like what you’re used to, but don’t let that fool you. They boast dual hook-and-loop Velcro closures for a secure, adjustable fit whether you’re typing at the desk or balling out on the court. Well-placed compression pads help absorb and dissipate vibrations that can cause injury, while the neoprene construction promises durability and proper ventilation. Say hello to additional support and goodbye to bulky arm sleeves.
Pros:
- Dual Velcro closures for an easy, secure fit
- Compression pad helps to absorb impact and prevent injury
- Exact stitching and neoprene reinforcement promise durability
- The thin band is bulk-free
- One-size-fits-all
Cons:
- Can take some trial and error to find the best placement for the brace
Kunto Fitness Elbow Brace
Keep it tight
While some sleeve-style elbow braces can offer great support, they often force you to sacrifice full range of motion. Kunto Fitness may be on to something with its brace that offers incredible, even compression without restricting movement. It’s made mostly of nylon with the additions of spandex for stretch and rubber for durability. This particular blend of fabrics should also provide a non-slip fit, so you won’t have to keep pulling this sleeve up your arm. We’re especially fond of the beige model, but the multi-colored brace is eye-catching, as well.
Pros:
- The sleeve-style brace evenly applies pressure throughout your arm
- Combination of nylon and spandex provides compression without suffocation
- The design makes it easy to properly place
- Added rubber provides durability and a slip-free fit
Cons:
- The attached tag may cause irritation, so you might have to cut it off
Copper Compression Recovery Elbow Sleeve
Slim and smell-free
It’s one thing to wear a brace while you’re in the garden or on the court, but it’s another thing entirely if you’re hoping to hide a brace underneath your work clothes. For a slim and trim fit, check out this elbow sleeve from Copper Compression. The construction is 85% copper-infused nylon, which is widely accepted to be anti-microbial and anti-odor, so you can wear this thin sleeve without having to worry about funky scents. It also boasts moisture-wicking technology, so any sweat that does appear is quickly absorbed and released into the air.
Pros:
- Copper-infused nylon protects against bacteria and odor build-up
- Moisture-wicking tech helps keep your arm dry
- Slim fit that can slide easily underneath clothes
Cons:
- Fit can be very tight if you’re in between sizes
Zouyue Elbow Brace for Sleep Support
Rest is best
We talk a lot about providing additional elbow support while being active, but we don’t always acknowledge the pain that can get in the way of a good night’s sleep. Zouyue brings this conversation to the forefront with its elbow brace designed specifically for overnight use. The Velcro closure is easy to adjust with one hand, and the brace features two removable metal splints to help align and straighten your elbow if desired. This can be especially helpful at night when you can’t always control your arm’s movements. But even during the workday, this elbow brace proves a helpful compression companion by keeping your elbow supported.
Pros:
- Designed specifically for overnight use, but has plenty of day-time functionality
- Removable, dual splints can provide immobilization if needed
- The comfortable non-slip design will stay put for hours
Cons:
- Three-strapped design and cushy fabric can be too bulky for some folks
Crucial Compression Pair of Elbow Brace Compression Sleeves
Affordable and effective
Whether you actually need support for both elbows or you’re just a fan of a great deal, this pair of braces from Crucial Compression easily trumps the competition when it comes to everyday use and value. Like many other sleeves, they opt for a blend of nylon and spandex, striking a solid balance between compression and breathability. Be sure to pay special attention to the sizing directions. A size down will provide additional support but more limited motion and a size up can lend to a more comfortable fit for longer periods of time.
Pros:
- Sleeves provide consistent, even compression
- Added support without losing range of motion
- Multiple different sizes available to create a personalized fit
- Affordable price for two sleeves
Cons:
- May slip down after long periods of use
- The material can be too thick or stiff for some wearers
Frequently Asked Questions
How do compression-based elbow braces work?
The main benefit of compression sleeves is increased blood flow. This, in turn, helps reduce muscle fatigue, promote healing, and prevent injury. By pushing de-oxygenated blood back to the heart and pushing re-oxygenated blood throughout a particular muscle, a compression sleeve helps accelerate your body’s productivity.
Do copper-infused fabrics accelerate the healing process?
Not exactly. While the science on copper’s healing properties is still up for debate, copper’s anti-microbial and anti-odor properties have long been agreed upon. Most advantages of compression sleeves infused with copper are considered to be a placebo effect, but one that many athletes will swear by. If you’re hoping to reduce odor and bacteria accumulation, however, you should definitely give copper-infused products a try. Your joints may just end up feeling better, too.
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