Written By: Chloe Wilson, BSc(Hons) Physiotherapy
Reviewed by: KPE Medical Review Board
Ace knee braces repeatedly receive excellent reviews and are very popular products.
“ACE” stands for “All Cotton Elastic” and they has been making elastic bandages for nearly 100 years.
ACE knee braces provide either mild support, suitable for minor injuries, or moderate support, suitable for minor to moderate knee issues. If you have a more serious injury or are suffering from a lot of instability, ACE isn't the brand for you as they don't make Elite level supports.
All ACE knee braces work well for various causes of knee
pain, especially arthritis, sprains, cartilage and ligament injuries,
bursitis, tendonitis and muscle weakness. They fit snugly providing
some compression to the knee which helps support the soft tissues
(muscles and ligaments) as well as reducing swelling. Ace supports also retain heat which increases the
circulation to the knee which can help to promote healing.
There are three styles of ACE brace, pull up sleeves, wrap around supports and knee straps. Here we will compare models and styles and then look more at the pros and cons of each to help you find the best one for you.
Overview: This ACE knee brace has flexible metal side stabilisers which provide medial and lateral stability, simulating the action of the knee ligaments. It is lightweight and allows full range of movement at the knee.
It helps to support the knee and reduce the risk of knee injuries, and is comfortable, even when worn for long periods. There are two versions available, one has an opening to reduce pressure on the kneecap, the other is a full sleeve.
My verdict: This is one of the only pull up sleeves on the market that has side stabiliser built in, providing that extra bit of support. It a extremely comfortable, easy to put on and provides a good level of support. Average user rating 4.2/5.
Read: User Reviews Buy Now: ON SALE (guide price $13/£12/€20)
Overview: Black pull on sleeve that combines superior stabilization with the benefits of heat retention. Made of elastoprene – an innovative combination of breathable elastic and neoprene blend materials. This provides support and retains heat to help reduce swelling and aid healing, whilst releasing moisture to prevent excess sweating.
It has comfortable reinforced edges which prevent rolling and slipping. Available in sizes Small/Medium 11-15" and Large/Extra Large 16-20”.
My Verdict: This is a great simple pull up sleeve that provides moderate support. I like the elastoprene material that gives the benefits of heat retention to improve healing without making the leg all sweaty. And a great price too making it the perfect budget option. Average user rating 4.3/5.
Read: User Reviews Buy Now: ON SALE (guide price $9/£10/€20)
These ACE knee braces are suitable for mild to moderate ligament instabilities and/or knee pain. I personally prefer wrap around braces as they tend to fit better than pull up braces.
Overview: Adjustable neoprene brace with adjustable straps for controlled compression and perfect fit. Open at the front with a support buttress to improve patella tracking whilst reducing pressure through the kneecap.
It is made of breathable lightweight neoprene blend, which aids circulation and helps keeps muscles pliable, reducing susceptibility to injury. Antimicrobial material inhibits growth of odor causing bacteria. Latex free.
My verdict: This is my favourite of the wrap around Ace braces. Users regular say they find this brace comfortable, supportive and sturdy. Average user rating 4/5.
Read: User Reviews Buy Now: ON SALE (guide price $12/£18)
Overview: Flexible dual side stabilizers provide support and medial/lateral stability when you walk, bend, run, jump or climb. It allows full range of movement whilst delivering comfortable support and protection.
It is open at the front to improve patella tracking whilst reducing pressure through the kneecap. Adjustable straps help to ensure optimum fit and prevent slipping. Comfort fit sleeve reduces irritation behind the leg, and breathable material keeps you cooler and drier. Antimicrobial treatment inhibits growth of odor-causing bacteria.
My verdict: One the whole this brace receives really good reviews, but some people find that the middle strap behind the knee can be slightly uncomfortable. If this is the case, I would recommend the McDavid Adjustable Knee Support instead. Average user rating 4.1/5.
Read: User Reviews Buy Now: ON SALE (guide price $13/£22/€44)
Knee straps are perfect for use with Runners Knee, Osgood Schlatters, Patellar Tendonitis, Chondromalacia Patella, patellar tracking problems and general knee pain. They might not look like much but they can make all the difference.
Overview: The only knee strap on the market that is dual adjustable. Has a Velcro fastening with unique additional small side tab that can be pulled to tighten the straps once they're Velcro'd together. There are two versions available, one has a tab at the side that you pull to adjust the fit, the other has a dial that you twist.
My verdict: I like the idea of the dual adjustability of this strap, but overall it doesn't receive as good reviews as some other makes - visit the knee straps section to find out more about other brands. Average user review 3.3/5.
Read: User Reviews Buy Now: ON SALE (guide price $11/£12/€48)
So as you will see, there are three types of ACE Knee Brace. Here we will look in a bit more details at the pros and cons of each style
Where braces come in more than one size, it is important to get the right one. Measure around the widest part of the knee and choose from the options below. Some people find that ACE braces come up a bit tight so if you are measuring towards the top of a range, it may be worth buying the size above.
There are other ACE knee braces available, but they don’t all receive
great feedback from users. If you’re not sure you’ve found the
perfect brace for you, visit the
knee brace
section to find out more about the different types of brace available and to find out about other manufacturers.
Page Last Updated: 01/11/23
Next Review Due: 01/11/25
*Prices correct as of May 2023. All prices are subject to change. Please note we do not stock products directly and therefore have no control over price changes. See advertising policy for more information.