Best Leg Braces & Supports Compression Sleeves (UK) - Buying Guide: 2024

Sports compression socks are among the most commonly used garments for treating all types of leg pain and injuries. They also help prevent diseases such as varicose veins and achieve optimal athletic performance.

In this article, we'll explain the features, benefits, types of injuries for which their use is recommended, and everything you need to know about improving your sport with compression socks.

What is the best leg braces to relieve leg pain?

To reduce the pain in your hamstrings, you can use the Supregear compression thigh brace, which will help stimulate blood circulation. In addition, thanks to its antiperspirant system, this sportswear works well in hot weather, so you can wear it under your clothes without anyone noticing, making it a muscle support for everyday use.

The double velcro strap allows for a better fit to keep the compression sleeve in place, giving you the compression you need to align your thigh muscles. The one size fits all and fits both legs, so all your daily activities will be protected from tears and tendonitis. Please note that for some users, the fit of the thigh brace does not provide the therapeutic effects needed to combat advanced injuries.

Not only do you need to train at your best to perform at your best, but you also need to prevent injuries from diminishing your potential. For this reason, it is recommended that you use a McDavid elastic leg sleeve, which will stay in position without sagging throughout your workout. By limiting muscle movement, it doesn't restrict muscle range of motion, so you can perform at your best without risking sprains or tears.

They are ideal for preventing body impacts, thanks to the development of the lower part that keeps the kneecap in place and avoids meniscus injuries. The fabric is cushioned and moisture wicking to allow the skin to breathe easily during the summer. It has been found that, in certain users, the symptoms of fatigue do not disappear with the use of this thigh support.

There are many ways to oxygenate the upper legs, but not all of them are as effective or as comfortable as using this hamstring compression sleeve. Its technological development allows the exchange of oxygen with the muscles and tendons so that you achieve a rapid decrease in pain. It is ideal for use in weightlifting, basketball or in stages after surgery.

The protection provided by the Bonmedico anti-slip splint is complete because it not only keeps the muscles relaxed, but also aligns them to prevent injuries. The thermoactive material is comfortable on the leg and the fabric is suitable for people who are sensitive to neoprene. It is important to know that, in specific cases, the thigh compression sleeve does not generate a quick recovery in quadriceps injuries.

Avoid pulled muscles and inflammation in tendons and ligaments when you're in the gym in a very simple way, just wear a unisex ThreeH thigh brace on your leg. Its one-size-fits-all design will help keep your muscles stable and stimulate heat to relax all tissues. Its breathable material prevents skin chafing and irritation, making it suitable for use in summer.

The running compression sleeve is easy to use, just place it on the leg and then adjust the velcro straps to get the compression that stimulates blood circulation. The 360° wrap provides longer wear time and improves oxygenation to reduce symptoms of muscle fatigue. It is likely that, if you do not place the correct size on your leg, the thigh support will not generate the right compression.

Carry a Reebok stretch leg brace with you to relieve hamstring and quadriceps pain. The gradual compression of this athletic garment not only prevents slippage, but also stimulates venous return for blood to oxygenate the tissues. You can wear this customisable sleeve when you train, but also when you work or need to be on your feet for long periods of time

The internal silicone bands create a non-slip effect to accompany leg movements and prevent slipping during use. You can wear them in hot weather because they feature a breathable ventilation patch that increases airflow. Consider that, in some users prone to skin irritations, the use of this compressive leg sleeve caused the appearance of rashes.

To eliminate the feeling of fatigue in the feet faster, it is necessary to relieve stiff muscles and stimulate the blood supply. In this case, the use of an elastic compression sleeve with a snug wrap around the thighs is the best solution. The development and structure of the Haofy one-size-fits-all splint maintains the alignment of the muscles, preventing sporting demands from causing tears or strains.

Its material offers the perfect support to relieve pain and is resistant to displacement during training. Its ventilated fabric helps to release sweat and heat, generating a greater comfort effect. To improve compression, it is necessary to adjust the 2 velcro straps, but take care not to cut off the blood circulation. Although the initial position does not fall off during use, it has been found that this situation does not occur for some users.

Sprains and tears will be controlled in a very easy way when you use a McDavid unisex leg brace. The elastic material conforms to the anatomy of the leg so that it presses in strategic places and allows blood to exchange nutrients. This way, you'll keep the therapeutic warmth right in this area without accumulating sweat, thanks to the breathable material it's made of.

Its exterior is lined with nylon for durability, but if you want to have a neoprene lining, no problem! just turn the reversible thermal sleeve inside out to find the style you like best. The compression thigh brace may be uncomfortable if you do demanding activities or need to jump frequently.

Take advantage of this opportunity and don't lower your performance because of a hamstring and quadriceps injury. Use the pair of Neotech Care thigh compression sleeves developed for men and women. But that's not all, in the same support you will find the right compression for the knee and leg due to the extension offered by the compression garment.

All you need to do is place it in the right place and wait for the pressure to improve the venous blood return. In this way, cramps and feelings of fatigue will gradually disappear. The different sizes offer patellar support and good calf protection through breathable, non-slip fabric. However, you should bear in mind that leg compression may be minimal in people with advanced hamstring or Achilles tendon injuries.

The NONMON sports sleeve for volleyball, basketball or rugby has a breathable material that prevents moisture accumulation in the thigh and improves compression to maintain good stability along the leg. But that's not all, the thigh brace has a hamstring wrap that reduces the risk of injury by keeping the tissues aligned. The gel pad, located on the patella, acts as an effective shock absorber.

When you push your legs hard, you won't feel the impact, as the structure of this support absorbs vibrations. It is suitable to provide extra protection to the calf muscles and relax the Achilles tendon. Keep in mind that as you train, your muscles start to swell, so the size of the thigh support may be small and cause an exaggerated compression.

Choose a McDavid elastic leg sock for your volleyball, football or cycling workouts. Its customisable design helps keep muscles strong and improve blood flow. It is ideal for reducing knee pain and eliminating symptoms of fatigue and cramps due to lack of oxygenation in the tissues.

It has an anatomical protector with hexagonal panels that offer greater flexibility and pressure on the knee. Thanks to the technology with which the sleeve materials are made, you will always be able to keep your leg dry and free of perspiration, it will also retain the temperature necessary for you to benefit from the therapeutic effects of heat. It is likely that, in some cases, sliding down the leg will occur when sweat begins to appear.

Video: Muscle leg anatomy

Types of leg compression sleeves you should know about

Best Leg Braces & Supports Compression Sleeves for basketball (UK) - Buying Guide: 2024

Best Leg Braces & Supports Compression Sleeves for running (UK) - Buying Guide: 2024

Best thigh braces & Supports compression sleeves for quads and hamstrings (UK) - Buying Guide: 2024

Buying guide: Tips on how to buy the best compression stocking for legs

You know all the diseases you can treat with this garment and its health benefits. All you need to know are the types, prices, sizes and a little more to choose the perfect compression stocking for you. Here we explain some features that will help you make the right choice.

Degree of compression

Compression stockings can be used by everyone, whether it's for sports activities, injury prevention, varicose vein treatment, and more. However, there are light or "standard" compression levels that can be used by the general public, as well as much higher levels that can be used to treat very delicate and risky health conditions, such as lymphedema, chronic venous insufficiency, post-surgical treatment, and many others.

Incorrect application of compression can lead to serious contraindications. Therefore, it should generally be sold only with medical approval. The intensity of the stockings is expressed in millimeters of mercury (mmH), and the respective conditions are explained.

• Light (18 - 24 mmHg): swelling of the legs, risk of varicose veins, people who are on their feet a lot, long trips, pregnant women, muscle or joint pain.
• Normal (22 - 29 mmHg): prevention or presence of small varicose veins, after operations, feeling of heaviness and fatigue of the legs, varicose veins during pregnancy.
• Strong (30 - 40 mmHg): lymphedema, chronic venous insufficiency, edema after surgery.
• Extra strong: (37 - 49): lymphedema (more severe cases than the previous ones), chronic venous problems, people with limited mobility, after operations.

Calf sleeves or socks

There are several models to choose the right sock, so two of the most requested by users are explained below:

• The socks cover the whole foot and reach below the knee. Unlike other socks, the material is warmer, so you can wear the socks in winter and have a comfortable body temperature. Since it covers the entire foot, ankle and calf area, it can distribute all its benefits and treat injuries or other trauma with a single garment.
• There are also short socks or calf socks. They extend from the top of the ankle to just below the knee and do not cover the foot. Many people prefer this type because of the comfort they say they feel, because they are easier to wear and fit in all kinds of situations. This type of garment is used in almost all sports that require constant mobility in this area, such as soccer, running, basketball and others.

Both produce the same type of compression and the same benefits in terms of injury prevention and other therapeutic benefits. The main differences are the model, where they are applied to the body, and the purpose they generally serve.

According to their use

Stockings can be classified according to their intended use:

• Sports socks: after the compression socks went from a simple therapeutic treatment to the sports field, nothing was the same. By simply pulling a pair of socks over your legs, you reduce muscle fatigue, improve circulation, perform better and even recover faster from training or physical activity. All of their benefits in this area have been confirmed by various research studies.
• Varicose vein stockings: this garment has been the solution to this serious and painful condition for many years. The most important purpose of stockings is blood circulation. Since varicose veins are an abnormal accumulation of blood, they are the ideal treatment to combat them. It can be used at all levels. Prevent, reduce or already be at its peak, as is the case, chronic venous insufficiency. It is the part most recommended by all specialists because it is the best solution for these diseases.
• Postoperative stockings : It is well known how important it is to rest after any surgery for the recovery process, so that the wound can heal and no other complications occur. Compression stockings are the best way to achieve a quick recovery. It is best for this type of rehabilitation as it provides stability, compression, good temperature, pain relief and better blood circulation.
• Obesity: this is an excessive accumulation of muscle mass, a metabolic disorder that is much more common in developed countries. Overweight people are much more likely to suffer from venous insufficiency. Therefore, the garment is a very viable option to prevent or cure this dangerous and unhealthy condition. In general, the market does not offer many clothing options for tall people.

Compression garments are the opposite, there are not only models in large sizes, but also models just for this area. Colors, materials, shapes, everything you need to improve your health, whatever the conditions.

Material

This point is of utmost importance, because the material you choose will determine the result and the good experience of wearing the garment.

• The first recommendation is not to buy cotton because it accumulates sweat and does not sweat. Therefore, not only is it uncomfortable to wear, but it will not quickly and completely achieve the desired effect.
• It is better to buy stockings made of spandex or synthetic materials such as nylon, as they are moisture-wicking, breathable, durable and easy to wear. Spandex, for example, is so elastic that you can stretch it as much as you want without affecting its natural texture.
• Avoid stockings with seams. The purpose of this garment is to improve your health or athletic performance without hindering you. Secondly, the pressure on the leg and feeling a seam can cause chafing, irritation and other causes on the skin.

Size

This step is very important. It is important to choose the right size so that the stocking can perform its function on your legs. Too small a size can hinder blood circulation, and too large a size simply has no effect.

However, there are some standards that will help you make the right choice. First, you need to determine what kind of socks you need, whether they are calf socks or socks. If this is the case, simply measure the circumference of your calves with a symmetrical tape measure. For the second option, you will need to use the same measuring tool to determine the size of your instep.

Design

The market for this garment has evolved so that today we can find an infinite number of completely different designs, colors and models. The stockings work with elastocompression to exert pressure on the legs and perform their function of transporting blood to the heart.

• The material and colors were one of the most prominent features of this garment, as its versatility allows it to be worn by all kinds of people in all kinds of situations.
• You don't have to be a sporty person and you don't have to have any health problems, you can also use it for going to work or for long trips so that you don't strain your legs.
• You can wear them under or over your clothes. There are some that are unisex and their color is similar to your skin, so you can go unnoticed.
• They are also available with or without seams. There is a lot of discussion about this, because the seams can be uncomfortable for many people, and they prefer not to wear them anymore because they have had bad experiences with stockings. This type of design is usually much cheaper than others, and if you think you are saving money, you are actually doing the opposite.
• You can see the use of socks in various athletes around the world, even professional footballers who will certainly not wear an uncomfortable garment to play. So remember that the best models are not always the cheapest.

Prices

Throughout this article, it has been explained that the price can be determined by the design and material of the garment. This is due to the quality of the product, it is not the same as a cotton sock with stitching that may not meet your expectations and is usually cheaper; to a garment with the best breathability, compression and fabric that adheres to the body, like the compression sports socks you can buy here.

What are leg compression sleeves for legs pain relief?

You can use sports compression socks not only during training and physical activities. Nowadays, these garments are used to prevent and cure many types of lower body injuries and pain, which we will explain below:

• Muscle contractures and overloads: Contractures are the increase in tension in a muscle that results in a shortening of the muscle fibers, affecting its normal function.
• Muscle cramps: These are cramps in one or more muscles. They can cause severe pain and usually occur in the legs. They are usually caused by work or exercise, but pregnant women, the elderly, overweight people and others are also prone to them.
• Intense periods of exercise: Physical or athletic training often ends in severe pain or trauma. With compression stockings, you can prevent this from happening, because... Compression socks: they have an anti-inflammatory effect, reduce muscle damage caused by sports, increase the temperature of the muscles and skin, allowing you to perform better.
• Varicose veins: These are swollen veins in which blood becomes abnormally congested and can no longer circulate properly. They occur mainly in the feet and legs.
• Bruises and contusions: These are wounds caused by some kind of blow, but where there is no injury to the surface of the skin. This is a very delicate procedure as it can cause muscle damage and even internal bleeding.
• Muscle tear: This is the tearing or overstretching of a muscle. It can be caused by overuse of muscles, poor warm-up before exercise, or accidents, among other things.
• Periostitis tibiae: pain that extends to the tibia (the bone in the front and lower part of the leg). It occurs mainly in athletes who have increased or changed their exercise program.
• Lymphedema: It is a pathological accumulation of lymphatic fluid that leads to an interruption in the flow of lymph. In other words, it is a swelling that usually occurs in the legs.
• Plantar fasciitis: this is a very intense pain that occurs when the tendon on the bottom of the foot becomes inflamed. It is very common in athletes and women who wear high heels.
• Edema: This is swelling caused by fluid accumulation in the tissues outside the circulatory system. It can occur in many parts of the body, but especially in the feet and legs.
• Achilles tendinitis: it is an injury in the back part of the ankle. It causes severe pain, especially in the heel bone. It is very common in athletes, but anyone can suffer from it.

Advantages and benefits of leg braces for men and women

Their main purpose is to compress the leg, which brings many health benefits. It not only relieves pain and swelling, but also prevents any form of hematoma and much more.

• Improved circulation: the main benefit of compression socks and compression garments in general is improved circulation due to the force of gravity acting on the blood.
• Pain relief: the compression that comes from the socks prevents and relieves muscle pain.
• Relieves inflammation: in the affected area of the foot. It is so effective that it is used to treat diseases such as lymphedema.
• Improves recovery: after sports or exercise, the socks facilitate the drainage of toxins, promote venous return and reduce muscle pain and swelling. In this way, you will not have a feeling of heaviness in your legs and will be able to recover more quickly.
• Injury prevention: Socks put pressure on the muscles, which helps prevent injuries you may suffer during exercise or other physical activities.
• Improves blood oxygenation: good blood circulation provides adequate oxygenation of tissues and optimizes air consumption, which improves performance.
• For tired legs: people who are on their feet a lot, who have long working days or go on long trips, feel that their legs are very tired. With socks, you can avoid these frequent pains caused by such activities.
• Take care of your skin: the protection of the sock is reflected not only on the inside of the skin, but also on the outside. During sports or leisure, the socks protect against friction and cuts thanks to the quality and resistance of the material.
• For varicose veins: Avoid dangerous conditions such as varicose veins and edema.
• Muscular stability: with the security and comfort that socks provide, you can exercise or perform other movements.

When and how can you use compression socks and tights braces to improve your sport?

For several decades, studies have been conducted on performance and endurance in various sports. The results have been positive. They concluded that this is due to an increase in blood flow velocity, a decrease in blood lactate and hematocrit. For this reason, compression socks have become a very important piece of equipment during training, games or competitions, such as rugby, cycling, basketball, soccer, football, handball, running and others.

If you practice any sport or physical activity, theuse of this garment is essential if you want to improve in the area you train. Not only will you be more resistant, but you will also be able to prevent or recover from injuries that are so common.

How to wear leg compression socks?

If you have already bought the compression garment and do not know how to put it on, we will explain how.

• Roll it up and turn it over with your hand, down to your toes.
• Put your foot in the sock and slowly pull it up your leg and down to your calf.
• Make sure the heel is in the marked spot on the sock.
• The last thing to do is smooth out the wrinkles.