We often get asked about the various types/styles of rigid hinged knee braces - Is one style better than the other?
To help understand, we've put together the three main styles, which show the Anchor Points (RED) and the Straps (Blue).
Shield - These braces have a large rigid anterior(front) surface area, with anchor points on the thigh and shin. Straps are positioned behind the leg and provide the force to ensure the brace is held into position. Double upright framed hinges sit either side of the knee to provide stability. These style of braces offer excellent leg protection, particulalry from impact, and offer protection for combined ligament instability.
Cage - These braces have a small rigid anterior anchor point around the thigh and the shin. Straps are positioned to the front and the rear, holding and supporting the frame and leg. Double upright framed hinges sit either side of the knee to provide stability. These style of braces are usually very comfortable and offer protection for combined ligament instability.
Step-Thru - Very different design to the Cage & Shield. Step-Thru braces have a rigid anchor point at the front of the thigh and another rigid anchor point behind the calf. Straps are positioned around the calf and shin and also at the rear of the thigh. Double upright framed hinges sit either side of the knee to provide stability. These style of brace are usually low profile and due to the strap configuration are generally indicated for ACL specific ligament protection.
To help understand, we've put together the three main styles, which show the Anchor Points (RED) and the Straps (Blue).
Shield - These braces have a large rigid anterior(front) surface area, with anchor points on the thigh and shin. Straps are positioned behind the leg and provide the force to ensure the brace is held into position. Double upright framed hinges sit either side of the knee to provide stability. These style of braces offer excellent leg protection, particulalry from impact, and offer protection for combined ligament instability.
Cage - These braces have a small rigid anterior anchor point around the thigh and the shin. Straps are positioned to the front and the rear, holding and supporting the frame and leg. Double upright framed hinges sit either side of the knee to provide stability. These style of braces are usually very comfortable and offer protection for combined ligament instability.
Step-Thru - Very different design to the Cage & Shield. Step-Thru braces have a rigid anchor point at the front of the thigh and another rigid anchor point behind the calf. Straps are positioned around the calf and shin and also at the rear of the thigh. Double upright framed hinges sit either side of the knee to provide stability. These style of brace are usually low profile and due to the strap configuration are generally indicated for ACL specific ligament protection.
So which one is best?
Well...from our experience, we have found all three styles have positives and negatives to their design. It also depends on what activities you intend to use the brace for, E.g. Motocross riders would favour the 'Shield' style due to the large impact resistant surface area...etc. The strap tension and strap configuration also plays an important factor, and dictates how the brace performs and protects the leg. As for comfort and fit, it really is down to the individual, as leg shapes/sizes differ from one person to the next - This is why we would encourage that the above braces are set-up and fitted by a bracing expert.
Well...from our experience, we have found all three styles have positives and negatives to their design. It also depends on what activities you intend to use the brace for, E.g. Motocross riders would favour the 'Shield' style due to the large impact resistant surface area...etc. The strap tension and strap configuration also plays an important factor, and dictates how the brace performs and protects the leg. As for comfort and fit, it really is down to the individual, as leg shapes/sizes differ from one person to the next - This is why we would encourage that the above braces are set-up and fitted by a bracing expert.