Running is undoubtedly one of the most popular forms of exercise in the world. It’s an excellent way to stay fit, and it can even help you lose weight. However, running can be hard on your body, especially your knees. Knee injuries are prevalent among runners, and one of the most common is an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tear. If you’ve had an ACL tear, you may need an ACL brace when you run. In this guide, we’ll discuss the best ACL braces for running.
What is an ACL brace?
An ACL brace is a type of knee brace that’s designed to provide support to your knee and protect your ACL. It’s made of a combination of materials such as neoprene, nylon, and metal hinges that help keep your knee stable. The brace is worn over your knee and can be adjusted to fit your leg perfectly. An ACL brace can help reduce pain, swelling, and instability in your knee.
Types of ACL braces
There are two main types of ACL braces: prophylactic braces and functional braces. Prophylactic braces are worn to prevent knee injuries, while functional braces are worn after an injury has occurred to help support the knee during recovery. For the purposes of this guide, we’ll focus on functional braces.
The Best ACL Braces for Running
- DonJoy Performance Bionic Knee Brace
The DonJoy Performance Bionic Knee Brace is a top-of-the-line functional ACL brace that’s perfect for running. It’s made of a combination of neoprene and nylon, which makes it lightweight and comfortable to wear. The brace also features metal hinges that provide added support to your knee. It’s designed to fit both the left and right knee, and it can be adjusted to fit your leg perfectly. The DonJoy Performance Bionic Knee Brace is an excellent choice for athletes who want to protect their knee while running.
- Shock Doctor Ultra Knee Supporter
The Shock Doctor Ultra Knee Supporter is another great option for runners. It’s made of a combination of neoprene and Lycra, which makes it flexible and breathable. The brace also features metal stays that provide added support to your knee. It’s designed to fit both the left and right knee, and it can be adjusted to fit your leg perfectly. The Shock Doctor Ultra Knee Supporter is a great choice for athletes who want a brace that’s both comfortable and supportive.
- McDavid Knee Brace with Polycentric Hinges
The McDavid Knee Brace with Polycentric Hinges is a popular choice among athletes. It’s made of a combination of neoprene and nylon, which makes it comfortable to wear. The brace also features polycentric hinges that provide added support to your knee. It’s designed to fit both the left and right knee, and it can be adjusted to fit your leg perfectly. The McDavid Knee Brace with Polycentric Hinges is a great choice for athletes who want a brace that’s both comfortable and provides excellent support.
- Shock Doctor 875 Ultra Knee Brace
The Shock Doctor 875 Ultra Knee Brace is another great option for runners. It’s made of a combination of neoprene and nylon, which makes it lightweight and comfortable to wear. The brace also features bilateral support hinges that provide added support to your knee. It’s designed to fit both the left and right knee, and it can be adjusted to fit your leg perfectly. The Shock Doctor 875 Ultra Knee Brace is a great choice for athletes who want a brace that’s both comfortable and provides excellent support.
- Bauerfeind Sports Knee Support
The Bauerfeind Sports Knee Support is a high-quality knee brace that’s perfect for running. It’s made of a combination of knitted fabric and silicone, which makes it lightweight and comfortable to wear. The brace also features integrated patella pads that provide added support to your knee. It’s designed to fit both the left and right knee, and it can be adjusted to fit your leg perfectly. The Bauerfeind Sports Knee Support is a great choice for athletes who want a brace that’s both comfortable and provides excellent support.
Conclusion
Running is an excellent form of exercise, but it can be hard on your knees, especially if you’ve had a previous knee injury. If you’ve had an ACL tear, wearing an ACL brace when you run can help reduce pain, swelling, and instability in your knee. There are many different types of ACL braces available, but the DonJoy Performance Bionic Knee Brace, Shock Doctor Ultra Knee Supporter, McDavid Knee Brace with Polycentric Hinges, Shock Doctor 875 Ultra Knee Brace, and Bauerfeind Sports Knee Support are some of the best ACL braces for running. Choose the one that best fits your needs and preferences and enjoy your runs with added support and protection for your knee.