Finding the best ACL knee brace is a must for sports injuries that threaten to take you out of the game. There are a range of options available, but just one that stands above the rest. Read on to see how Shock Doctor’s compression knee brace offers unparalleled support and protection, with features that are sure to impress.
Best Choice Maximum Compression Brace by Shock Doctor
This ACL brace is made with premium materials to support your ACL, stay comfortable, and prevent odor and moisture buildup.
Buy on AmazonHardcore athletes know that ACL tears are a big deal, often requiring surgery and months of rehabilitation. Whether you’re protecting against your own injury, or staying on your feet during recovery, our list of ACL braces is designed to offer only the best options. Find the equipment you need to keep going, even during the most difficult times.
Our Top Picks
The Nine Best ACL Knee Braces
Best Choice: Maximum Support Compression Brace by Shock Doctor
For those looking to stay in the game during their recovery, this maximum support ACL knee brace is the ideal solution. The bilateral hinges support your joint even during the most intense activity, while a compression support design boosts circulation, feeding your muscles and maximizing performance. It’s durable and comfortable too, so you won’t mind wearing it regularly.
Main Features
- Performance enhancing design
- Odor prevention
- Compression support
- Premium materials
Pros:
- Improves movement and flexibility
- Quality, durable materials
- Won’t slip during your workout
Cons:
- Fasteners can loosen after extended wear
Top Performance: Hinged Knee Brace by Vive
When ACL support is your top priority, Vive brings the excellent quality. Aluminum support hinges and an open patella design keep all the interior muscles of your joint aligned and supported, to promote fast and safe healing. Serious athletes will love how the neoprene fasteners keep the brace in place even during intense workouts. It’s comfortable, durable, and easy to slip on and off. What more could you ask for?
Main Features
- Aluminum support hinges
- Comfortable material
- Durable fasteners
- Open patella design
Pros:
- Tough enough for high intensity sports
- Specifically designed for ACL and MCL support
- Keeps your knee cool and dry
Cons:
- Velcro may lose its stick over time
Can’t Count it Out: Knee Brace Support by Tech Ware Pro
Find targeted support for your ACL, with this knee brace support by Tech Ware Pro. An open patella build will grip your knee cap to prevent further injury to the area. Lightweight and breathable neoprene is the perfect choice for athletes of all skill levels. With a range of four different sizes, anyone can take advantage of the stabilizing support this brace brings to the table.
Main Features
- Open patella build
- Lightweight material
- Comfortable gel pads
- No-slip silicone strips
Pros:
- Wicks-away moisture
- Choose from 4 sizes
- Stabilizes the kneecap
Cons:
- Not the most comfortable design
The Other ACL Knee Braces We Reviewed
Knee Brace Support Protector by EXOUS
This brace will prove to be a good standby for unexpected ACL injuries while at the gym, or on the court. It’s breathable and durable design makes it perfect for athletes, while the open patella will provide all the support you need. However, the lycra straps might not have the snug fit you’re looking for, especially after extended use.
Buy on AmazonPatella Strap Knee Brace by Run Forever Sports
Those who want a lightweight, simple, and slim solution to minor ACL injuries will do well to try this patella strap by Run Forever Sports. It’s great for relieving pain while improving your form while running. Keep in mind that the durability may not be as high as more expensive braces, but at under $15 this may not be much of an obstacle for buyers.
Buy on AmazonKnee Brace for Men and Women by Berter
Berter’s unique knee brace offers enough support to keep your ACL happy and healthy, while also offering compression to improve healing and athletic performance. Even though it’s a bit difficult to slip on and off, it still is a great choice for serious athletes, or those with previous experience with knee braces.
Buy on AmazonKnee Brace for Running by Ultra Sports Gear
What more can you ask aside from durability and comfort with an affordable price tag? This runner’s brace offers both, with a variety of features designed to protect the knee and prevent ACL injuries. It’s only major flaw is the center strap, which is positioned awkwardly over the joint, and might leave you needing to adjust and readjust to get a good fit.
Buy on AmazonKnee Brace Compression Support by TENGYES
This brace is an easy choice for beginners and advanced athletes alike. One size will fit most buyers, and it slips on easily right when you need it. Designed specifically for ACL, MCL, and other knee injuries, it offers superb support. The only thing to watch out for on this one is the fit–size carefully or risk slipping down while in use.
Buy on AmazonThe Benefits of Knee Brace After an ACL Injury
The truth is that ACL braces support injuries in a number of different ways. See all the unique benefits of ACL supports here.
Compression
ACL tears, and other muscle injuries are aided by improved blood flow and the extra boost of stability offered by compression braces. Most of the braces listed above offer compression, which not only protects the injury, but helps it heal even faster.
Support
The ACL is an interior muscle, located within the kneecap. This means that keeping the joint aligned and limiting side-to-side movement with a hinged brace is the best way to prevent further harm. Actually, knee braces are great at preventing all kinds of knee injuries so having one handy is a good bet.
Protection
All injuries make our bodies more susceptible to further harm. This can extend the healing process, or even cause new injuries to crop up. Make sure to find a sturdy brace that can take a beating so you don’t have to.
Is your aching knee keeping you out of the game? Try our selection of knee braces for basketball here.
How Long Does it Take to Recover from an ACL Injury?
The truth is, ACL recovery can be a long process, and the recovery time varies depending on the nature and seriousness of the injury. Six to nine months is usually required to fully recover from a torn ACL. However, this number can be improved by taking the right steps to ensure a safe and speedy recovery. Make sure to find a quality brace you can trust in, and consult a physician to get an accurate diagnosis.
Weighing All the Factors
After taking a look at such a wide range of braces, we recommend Shock Doctor’s Compression knee brace, with its bilateral aluminum hinges. It’s the best way to get maximum support for your ACL tear, with a unique combination of features that can’t be beat. At the same time, the Vive and Tech Ware Pro options afford their own benefits, offering some worthwhile options to consider.
Best Choice Maximum Compression Brace by Shock Doctor
This ACL brace is made with premium materials to support your ACL, stay comfortable, and prevent odor and moisture buildup.
Buy on Amazon