Strapping and compression gear includes compression support, braces, sleeves and strapping tape such as a knee support or ankle support, used around joints and muscles during activity. People use them for a feeling of support and stability during sport and training. It's worth being clear that these are not a treatment for injury and not a substitute for proper assessment — if you have a genuine injury or ongoing pain, see a physiotherapist or doctor. Think about what you're using it for, and get advice if pain is the reason.
What types of support are there?
The main categories work differently:
- Compression sleeve: a stretchy elasticated sleeve providing even pressure around a joint or muscle, easy to pull on.
- Brace or strap: a firmer support, often with adjustable straps or hinges, giving more restriction than a sleeve.
- Sports tape: rigid or elastic tape applied directly to skin, allowing targeted support in a specific direction.
- Compression garments: tights, tops and socks worn during or after activity.
What does compression gear actually do?
Compression applies pressure to the limb, and people commonly report that it feels supportive and that they're more aware of the joint's position while wearing it. Research into compression garments has looked at things like perceived muscle soreness after exercise, with mixed and generally modest findings, and the evidence is not strong enough to promise particular outcomes. What compression does not do is fix an underlying problem — if a joint hurts, the pain is information, and wearing a sleeve to keep training through it can let a small issue become a larger one. Use it as comfort, not as a fix.
When should you see a professional?
Reach for advice rather than a support if any of these apply: pain that's sharp, persistent, or getting worse; a joint that gives way, locks or feels unstable; noticeable swelling; pain that wakes you at night; or an injury from a specific incident like a twist or impact. A physiotherapist or doctor can work out what's actually happening and give you a plan, which often includes specific strengthening rather than a brace. Using a support to push through pain delays that assessment. If you've been given a brace by a professional, follow their guidance on how and when to wear it.
Common questions
Does a compression sleeve heal an injury?
No — supports and sleeves don't treat an underlying problem. They may feel supportive during activity, but if you have pain or instability, see a physiotherapist or doctor for assessment.
What's the difference between a sleeve and a brace?
A sleeve is a stretchy pull-on providing even compression; a brace is firmer with adjustable straps or hinges, restricting movement more. Braces are often prescribed for specific conditions.
How tight should compression be?
Snug and even, without pinching, numbness, tingling or discolouration. If it's uncomfortable, cuts in, or affects sensation, it's too tight — remove it and size up.
When should I see a physio instead?
If pain is sharp, persistent or worsening, the joint gives way or locks, there's swelling, pain wakes you at night, or it followed a specific injury. Get it assessed rather than strapping over it.
Can I pay for supports with Afterpay?
Yes. You can split it with Afterpay, Zip, Klarna or PayPal Pay in 4. Our strapping and compression gear starts from $14, which is four fortnightly payments of $3.50.
Complete your kit
Supports work with the rest of your gear. Add mats and rollers, fitness accessories, and mobility gear.
A $14 support splits into four fortnightly payments of $3.5 with Afterpay, and Zip, Klarna and PayPal Pay in 4 do the same. Every order ships from our Australian warehouse, dispatched within 1–2 business days, with a 12-month warranty and 30 days to return it. We're a family-run Australian store, going since 2016, rated 4.66 out of 5 across 5,363 reviews.
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