If you are playing a lot of racquet sports like tennis, pickleball, squash, racquetball or badminton then you are at risk of tennis elbow. Tennis elbow occurs when you overuse the muscles and tendons in the forearm near your elbow joint, which subsequently cause pain when you grip, twist, lift or bend your arm. As pickleball fanatics, tennis elbow can be a really debilitating injury that creates a lot of frustration, especially when you’re missing valuable time out on-court. However, there is a way to reduce the negative impacts of tennis elbow, and it comes in the form of a tennis elbow brace, sleeve or support.
Purchasing a tennis elbow brace or sleeve is a great investment if you are suffering from pain connected to tennis elbow. When you wear a tennis elbow brace or compression sleeve, you provide the muscles and tendons with support when playing many of the shots demanded of you during popular racquet sports. What’s more, compression helps to increase circulation, reduce swelling and reduce pain and inflammation – all vital when you’re combatting the painful side effects of tennis elbow.
If you are looking for the best tennis elbow brace, sleeve or support, check out our top 10 tennis elbow brace list. Here at PickyPickleball.com, we compare all of the best braces and supports available – ensuring you get back on-court as soon as possible.
Top 10 Tennis Elbow Brace List
Finding the best tennis elbow brace isn’t always an easy task. You’ve only got to click into a physio store or online marketplace to find yourself bombarded with an overwhelming number of options. Thankfully, here at PickyPickleball.com, we’re familiar with tennis elbow and can recommend our top 10 list of the best tennis elbow braces all tried and tested by regular racquet sport players.
1. Copper Compression Recovery Elbow Sleeve
The best tennis elbow brace on our list is the hugely popular Copper Compression Recovery Elbow Sleeve. Containing the highest copper content of any elbow brace on the market, the Copper Compression Recovery Elbow Sleeve provides excellent relief from tennis elbow, golfers elbow, tendonitis, arthritis, and other conditions associated with sports prone to repetitive strain injuries.
The Copper Compression Recovery Elbow Sleeve is a fantastic option if you are looking for the best tennis elbow braces. Made from breathable compression fabric, the Copper Compression sleeve provides you with additional elbow joint stability, without creating discomfort, itching or irritation – in fact, you can wear it all day and will most likely forget that you’re even wearing it.
The Copper Compression Sleeve utilizes genuine copper ions (Cu+ and CU++) rather than copper oxide (Cu2O) which means that you get a sleeve that contains the highest content of high-quality copper on the market – Copper is known to be a malleable, soft metal that helps with pain relief and recovery, hence its use in many compression sleeves. On top of this, the sleeve is extremely comfortable, looks great, and importantly gives you a great range of motion whatever sport your playing. The Copper Compression sleeve is available in four different size options, this means you can choose a fit that is right for you.
Standout Features
- Highest copper content of any sleeve on the market – includes genuine copper ions (CU+ and CU++)
- Looks great, easy to move in, great range of motion, custom size options
- Breathable fabric which prevents itching or discomfort, suitable for all-day wear
2. Tomight Elbow Brace
Next on our list is the Tomight Elbow Brace. Unlike the Copper Compression Sleeve, the Tomight Elbow Brace is a traditional tennis elbow brace that sits below the elbow joint. If you are looking for a leading elbow strap that will help relieve tennis elbow, then check out the Tomight elbow brace as one of the best options out there.
The Tomight Elbow Brace is the leading traditional and best tennis elbow brace on our top-list. Available in five great color options, the Tomight brace compresses the forearm helping to absorb the shock transferred up the forearm when playing tennis or other racquet sports. The tennis elbow brace generously covers the entire area under the elbow, helping to support all of the muscle, tendons and soft tissue sitting below the elbow joint, while the adjustable strap is comfortable and easy to alter with velcro straps. The Tomight Elbow Brace is also made from Neoprene which makes it comfortable to wear. There is no itching, irritation or discomfort when you wear this tennis elbow strap.
If you suffer from tennis elbow, arthritis, tendonitis, golfers elbow, or any form of repetitive sports injury in the elbow, check out the Tomight Elbow Brace. Our pick as the best elbow brace on the market, this is a traditional option that offers an alternative to a compression sleeve.
Standout Features
- Versatile elbow strap that absorbs the forces associated with racquet sports and golf
- High quality, comfortable materials – easy to adjust velcro strap
- Skin-friendly material that is comfortable to wear
3. Kunto Fitness Elbow Brace
Next on our best tennis elbow brace list is the Kunto Fitness Elbow Brace. Thanks to its unique weave-construction, the Kunto Elbow Brace is both comfortable and reliable – with zero slippage during gameplay.
Like the Copper Compression Sleeve, the Kunto Fitness Elbow Brace covers the entire elbow area to provide stability and support across the elbow joint. The Kunto brace is built with a four-way stretch material that features a weave-construction designed to eliminate slippage. The Kunto Fitness Elbow Brace is suitable for tennis players, golfers, or those specifically suffering from arthritis, tendonitis, tennis elbow or other repetitive strain injuries. The elbow sleeve is available in three colors and offers an alternative to the all-black Copper Sleeve. Likewise, the Kunto Fitness sleeve is available in four different size options so that you can pick the right option for you.
Standout Features
- Four-way stretch material and weave-construction create a sung fit that does not slip – thicker than other compression sleeves for greater support
- Available in three great colors
- Available in four sizes so that you can get the fit that is right for you
4. Simien Tennis Elbow Brace
Next on our list is the Simien Tennis Elbow Brace. Like the Tomight Elbow Brace, the Simien Brace is a traditional tennis elbow brace that helps to absorb shock below the elbow joint.
The Simien Tennis Elbow Brace is another fantastic option for anyone looking for a traditional tennis elbow brace. The Simien Tennis Elbow Brace is suitable for those suffering from tennis elbow, golfers elbow, tendonitis, arthritis, fishing elbow, billiard elbow, luggage elbow, weightlifting elbow and more. Designed to combat repetitive strain injuries like tennis elbow, carpal tunnel syndrome, arthritis and tendonitis, the Simien Elbow Brace offers support in any situation. As well as purchasing the single tennis elbow brace, you will get another brace, and an e-book when you purchase. As such, the Simien Tennis Elbow Brace offers exceptional value for money and means you can wear a brace on each arm, or use them for different scenarios (work and sports).
The Simien Tennis Elbow Brace is extremely versatile and comfortable. The brace is made from 65% neoprene, and 35% nylon and contains a hook and loop strap which is reliable and durable. This means that you can use your Simien Elbow Brace constantly, without the risk of wear and tear or discomfort.
Standout Features
- Traditional tennis elbow brace that helps to prevent repetitive strain injuries
- Simple black color scheme helps the brace blend in
- Get 2 braces and an e-book all included in the price
5. Nordic Lifting Elbow Compression Sleeve
Our next pick is the Nordic Lifting Elbow Compression Sleeve. Crafted using a quality Nylon yarn, the Nordic Elbow Compression Sleeve is ergonomic and designed to give you the ‘perfect fit’.
The Nordic Lifting Elbow Compression Sleeve is designed for comfort and compression. The High-Quality Nylon helps to provide superior compression with exceptional fit so that you feel supported whenever you are wearing the sleeve. Suitable for weightlifting, tennis, or any other racquet sport, the Nordic Sleeve is easy to move in, looks great and is available in five different unique fits. Also including a 1-year manufacturer’s warranty, this is a great option for anyone who wants a compression sleeve that has built to provide ultimate compression and ‘fit’.
Standout Features
- Available in five different size options
- Built to give you optimal compression and ‘fit’
- Looks great, black and white design
6. POWERLIX Elbow Brace Compression Support
The POWERLIX Elbow Brace Compression Support is an epic Compression Sleeve that will give you everything you need when fighting the effects of Tennis Elbow or other repetitive strain injuries.
The POWERLIX Elbow Brace Compression Support features a 4-way compression, specially knitted design made from high-performance fabric. The POWERLIX Compression sleeve also features anti-slip technology that stops the sleeve slipping down your arm during gameplay. Like other compression sleeves, the POWERLIX Elbow Compression Sleeve helps to minimize injury by providing tonnes of compression, in a form-fitting sleeve that is designed to combat the impacts of any form of repetitive strain injury. Available in four different sizes, the POWERLIX sleeve can be purchased in black or blue options.
Standout Features
- 4-way compression, specially knitted design, high-performance fabric
- Anti-slip technology
- Available in two colors and four unique sizes
7. Crucial Compression Elbow Brace Compression Sleeve
Next on our best tennis elbow brace list is the Crucial Compression Elbow Brace Compression Sleeve. If you are looking for a compression sleeve that is lightweight, fit’s great, and blends in then the Crucial Compression Sleeve is for you.
Like other compression sleeves on our top-list, the Crucial Compression Elbow Brace will give you extra support across your elbow joint when playing sports. However, it is lighter weight than other compression sleeves and comes in a form-fitting black design that blends in and gives you the feeling of ultimate freedom of movement. Unlike thicker compression sleeves that can sometimes give you the feeling of resistance, the Crucial Compression sleeve is very easy to move in, while giving you the right support when you need it. Likewise, the Crucial Compression sleeve is one of the best value sleeves available, priced under $15.
If you are looking for a brilliant compression sleeve that is easy to move in, helps support muscles, increases blood flow and is great at minimizing injury, then check out the Crucial Compression Elbow Brace Compression Sleeve.
Standout Features
- Lightweight compression sleeve
- Easy to move in, breathable and great for wearing during long games
- Can be worn all day, available in five sizes for a custom fit
8. Venom Elbow Brace Compression Sleeve
The Venom Elbow Brace Compression Sleeve is a great option for anyone who wants a thicker sleeve that will give brilliant compression and heat retention during gameplay.
The Venom Elbow Brace Compression Sleeve provides targeted compression and heat retention, thanks to its highly elastic and durable construction. Designed for tennis players, as well as golfers, weightlifters, volleyball players and more, this is a great elbow support for someone who is looking for targeted compression around the elbow, with heat retention properties. The Venom Elbow Brace also features an anti-slip design which makes the sleeve easy to use when you’re playing long games or needing to wear the sleeve for extended periods.
Available in five different sizes, the Venom Elbow Brace fits well and will combat the effects of tennis elbow.
Standout Features
- Targeted compression and heat retention
- Lightweight, easy to move in, suitable for a wide range of sports
- Easy and comfortable to wear for longer periods
9. Sparthos Elbow Compression Sleeve
For a stand-out elbow compression sleeve, chose the Sparthos Elbow Compression Sleeve. This Tennis Elbow brace is available in four stand-out colors that will compliment your style.
While the Sparthos Elbow Compression Sleeve works great when you’re playing racquet sports, it can also be used playing other sports or while you’re out and about or at home. The Sparthos Elbow Compression Sleeve features targeted compression across the elbow joint, which promoted blood circulation that reduces inflammation. Suitable for professional athletes or those who want to wear an elbow brace at-home, the Sparthos Elbow Compression Sleeve is a great all-rounder that acts as a second skin. The sleeve is made from a breathable yarn that can be worn under a shirt, jacket or sweatshirt. What’s more, the Sparthos Elbow Compression Sleeve is available in black, pink, blue or beige – so if you want to stand out, this best tennis elbow brace is for you.
Standout Features
- Available in stand-out color options
- Acts as a second skin which can be worn under a shirt, jacket or training top
- Provides targeted compression, reduces inflammation
10. Bracoo Elbow Support
Completing our best tennis elbow brace list is the Bracoo Elbow Support. This unique elbow support features a fastening strap above and below the elbow to give you the ability to control compression throughout the elbow joint.
The Bracoo Elbow Support features a simple but very effective design. The elbow brace is made from a 4-way stretch fabric that is skin-friendly and latex-free. The Bracoo Elbow Support has a broad hook strap at either side of the support, which fastens around the elbow joint. This design gives you the ability to control compression so the strap can go with you into any situation – whether that is playing tennis or pickleball, or when you need to wear the strap at work or home.
Available in black, with a versatile design that suits any elbow circumference, this is a great elbow support for anyone who wants to vary compression levels depending on your activity.
Standout Features
- Adjustable straps at either side of the elbow joint allow you to control compression
Tennis Elbow Brace Buying Guide
Now that we have walked through the best tennis elbow braces, sleeves and supports, let’s turn our attention to our tennis elbow brace buying guide. Here we take a look at some of the common questions that we get asked regularly about tennis elbow. Our aim is to provide you with all of the information you need to purchase the best tennis elbow brace to support your game.
What is Lateral Epicondylitis (Tennis Elbow)?
Tennis elbow or Lateral Epicondylitis (as it is clinically known) is a common injury found in tennis players, racquet sports players, and golfers. However it is not limited to those playing sport, it is also common in a lot of professions that require repetitive strain on the forearm and elbow. Essentially, tennis elbow occurs when the muscles and tendons in the forearm (near the elbow joint) experience repetitive strain. The result of tennis elbow is a pain when bending, lifting, twisting, and gripping using the muscles in your forearm.
What causes Tennis Elbow?
Tennis elbow is caused by overusing and exerting the muscles and tendons in your forearm. The elbow joint is surrounded by muscles and tendons that work together in your forearm, wrist, and hand to control your lower arm. When you overuse these muscles with repetitive injury, tiny tears can occur in the muscles that can cause inflammation and pain. Tennis and pickleball players often complain about tennis elbow as a number of shots connected to both sports can cause this common injury. Likewise, golf players also complain of ‘golfer’s elbow’ which is very similar and tends to result in pain on the inside of the forearm.
What is a Tennis Elbow Brace?
Tennis elbow braces, elbow supports, and sleeves are straps and sleeves that you can wear before, during and after tennis and pickleball to relieve and prevent the symptoms of tennis elbow. By wearing support, you will take the repetitive strain off of the muscles and tendons in your forearm during gameplay. Likewise, by applying compression you help increase blood flow, reduce swelling and inflammation, and give yourself more support to play the right shots without feeling pain. Here at PickyPickleball.com we compare and review all of the best tennis elbow braces on the market.
Tennis Elbow Brace vs Tennis Elbow Sleeve
There are a couple of options available to you when picking a tennis elbow brace. The first is a tennis elbow strap, that sits below the elbow joint, high up the forearm. Tennis elbow braces help to provide support to the muscles below the elbow joint and add compression during gameplay, taking strain and impact away from the elbow joint. The second option is a tennis elbow sleeve or compression sleeve. Tennis elbow sleeves act in the same way as a tennis elbow brace but slip over the entire elbow joint to provide compression from the middle of the forearm right up and above the elbow joint.
It really comes down to personal preference when choosing between them. Some players hate the feeling of a compression sleeve as it makes them feel unbalanced (especially if wearing the sleeve on one side only). However, others love the added support that a sleeve offers, providing extra confidence to play without fear of pain. The drawback of a compression sleeve is that is it not adjustable, unlike a compression strap. With a tennis elbow strap, you can tighten or loosen the strap depending on comfort and your requirements during gameplay.
Our advice is to buy a tennis elbow strap if you want the flexibility to adjust positioning and tension. Otherwise, compression sleeves are a great way to give the entire elbow support while you play.
What is a Tennis Elbow Tendonitis Brace?
Tennis elbow is sometimes called tennis elbow tendonitis. As such, when you’re buying a tennis elbow brace, it is common to come across options called a tennis elbow tendonitis brace. Tendonitis occurs when there is inflammation and swelling in a tendon after injury. Because tennis elbow affects tendons in the forearm and elbow, often it is described as a form of tendonitis, hence the name – Elbow Tendonitis Brace.
Does Tennis Elbow go away?
Yes, the great thing about tennis elbow is that it is treatable. We’d always advise that you see a physiotherapist discuss your unique needs, however by carrying our stretching and strengthening exercises at home, you can remove the pain associated with tennis elbow. And when it comes to playing pickleball with a paddle, tennis or other sports, always wear a tennis elbow brace, sleeve or tennis elbow support. Not only will the best tennis elbow braces provide the support required to remove strain on your muscles and tendons, the tennis elbow brace will increase blood flow and remove inflammation after play.
