Comparison of high-density and low-density neoprene knee sleeves on back squat and CMJ performance

Introduction: Neoprene knee sleeves are widely used as ergogenic aids in strength sports to enhance performance and reduce injury risk. High-density (HD) models have recently emerged, offering greater stiffness and support compared to traditional low-density (LD) sleeves. Methods: This descriptive, comparative study included 19 trained males (18–35 years) who performed back squat and countermovement jump (CMJ) tests under both sleeve conditions (HD and LD) in a repeated-measures design. Performance variables included one-repetition maximum (1RM), mean propulsive velocity (MPV), jump height, and power. Results: HD sleeves significantly improved 1RM compared to LD (mean difference = 5.45 kg; 95% CI [−8.13, −2.76]; p = 0.0005; ES = 0.26). No significant differences were found in MPV (β = 0.019 m/s, p = 0.31), jump height (β = −0.67 cm, p = 0.546), or power output (β = −12.5 W, p = 0.448). Conclusions: HD sleeves enhanced maximal strength without significantly affecting velocity or jump performance. To our knowledge, this is the first study to directly compare HD and LD neoprene sleeves, providing novel evidence on the ergogenic impact of sleeve density in strength-trained individuals.