Braces, Supports and Socks for Hiking
All-day comfort, relief and support for every adventure.
Knee Braces for Hiking
Outdoor Knee Support
Comfortable relief outdoors using Merino wool and patella strap system
GenuTrain - Knee Brace
All-rounder: Stabilizes and relieves the knee for all-day comfort
Ankle Braces for Hiking
AchilloTrain - Achilles Tendonitis Brace
Relieves chronic Achilles tendon pain or discomfort
Back Braces for Hiking
Compression Sleeves & Socks for Hiking
Sports Compression Arm Sleeves
Add sleeves to your clothing without bringing another shirt
Sports Compression Upper Leg Sleeves
Help relieve pulled or tight hamstrings as well as sore legs
Sports Compression Lower Leg Sleeves
Muscle-specific targeted compression for peak performance
Outdoor Performance Compression Socks
Microfiber socks featuring targeted compression for better endurance on long hikes
Outdoor Performance Mid Cut Socks
Soft microfiber socks add stability for the ankle and foot arch
Outdoor Merino Compression Socks
Targeted compression combined with merino fabric for better endurance
Outdoor Merino Mid Cut Socks
Extra comfortable merino wool socks with stability for the ankle and foot arch
Sports Recovery Compression Socks
Improve the legs’ vitality post hike and speed up the regeneration process
Ready to make the most out of future adventures? Bauerfeind’s hiking braces, supports and compression socks combine targeted compression with breathable, lightweight and moisture-wicking materials to provide lasting joint stability, relief and comfort outdoors. Featuring mulesing-free Merino wool, our Outdoor Supports and Compression Socks offer year-round comfort and relief to enjoy every trail.
How to treat and prevent common hiking injuries?
Hiking is the most popular outdoor activity among Americans, with over 60 million hikers in 2023. And while injury rates are lower than in other activities, they still occur. Preventing hiking injuries comes down to preparation, awareness, and recovery, so make sure to pack all the essentials (food, water, first aid, etc.), understand the route, and wear breathable, moisture-wicking clothing.
To treat and prevent common musculoskeletal injuries, choosing a brace or support designed for the outdoors can be the difference between all-day joint discomfort and all-day relief. We recommend considering the braces, supports and compression socks below for various hiking-related injuries.
- Ankle sprains: Sports Ankle Support, Outdoor Ankle Support
- Patellar tendonitis: Outdoor Knee Support, Sports Knee Strap
- Knee instability: Sports Knee Support, GenuTrain
- Patellofemoral syndrome: GenuTrain P3
- Achilles tendonitis: AchilloTrain, Sports Achilles Support
- Plantar fasciitis: Run Performance Insoles, ViscoSpot
What are the benefits of Merino wool for braces and compression socks?
Merino wool has become a beloved material in nearly all types of outdoor clothing due to its breathable, temperature-regulating, moisture-wicking and odor-resistant properties. It’s soft and itch-resistant while keeping you cool during the summer and warm during the winter. Because braces and compression wear are in direct contact with the skin, using Merino wool becomes a no-brainer.
For the Outdoor Knee Support, Outdoor Ankle Support, and Outdoor Merino Compression Socks, we’ve combined mulesing-free Merino wool with our compression knit fabric to provide targeted support, relief, and year-round comfort, regardless of the adventure.
Why do I have knee pain when hiking downhill?
It’s important to know that knee pain while hiking downhill is fairly common and can occur for various reasons, including the use of heavy equipment or poor footwear. However, gravity is another factor, as it puts more force on the knee joint compared to hiking uphill or on flat terrain, which can cause pain under the kneecap or patellofemoral joint.
According to a study by pubmed.gov, the “increased moment and knee flexion angle yield a 3 to 4 times bigger femoropatellar joint compressive force for downhill walking compared to level walking.” Another study found that walking downhill reduces the sense of knee joint position, also known as proprioception, resulting in a higher rate of injury while descending.
This additional pressure is why the Outdoor Knee Support features a Downhill Relief System. As a built-in patella strap system, it provides targeted support to the patellar tendon and anterior knee joint, which redistributes pressure to relieve pain when hiking downhill, allowing you to hike further and with less discomfort.
What compression socks should I wear for hiking?
Choosing hiking socks depends a lot on your personal preference. Generally, socks are available in different lengths and with different types of compression, cushioning and material.
Experience comfort on every step with hiking socks from Bauerfeind. With our Outdoor Performance Compression Socks and Outdoor Merino Compression Socks in two lengths as mid-cut and knee-high socks. The socks feature innovative functional zones for better endurance and comfort on the trail. Our socks are padded to prevent blisters and relieve stress on your feet. The soft breathable and temperature-regulating material keeps your feet dry and fresh.
What if I’m between sizes? Which should I choose?
Bauerfeind braces, supports and compression socks are anatomically contoured and are most effective when they fit perfectly. Your brace should support you firmly without feeling tight or loose. Please use the size chart to size correctly.
If between sizes, we’d recommend contacting our team of expert product specialists at (800) 423-3405, available from Mon-Thurs 9am-6pm EST and Friday 9am-5pm EST.
Are Bauerfeind hiking braces and compression wear machine washable?
Yes, Bauerfeind’s hiking braces and compression socks and sleeves are machine washable. We recommend regularly washing them using cold/cool water in the gentle or delicate cycle before laying them flat to air-dry, as this will help maintain the product’s fit, comfort and effectiveness. It’s fine to wash using regular laundry detergent, but avoid using additives (such as fabric softener or Woolite), as this can damage the knit fabric.
For products with Velcro straps, fasten them securely as designed on the brace. For more information, please visit our Product Care Guide.
Are Bauerfeind hiking braces and supports FSA/HSA eligible?
Yes, Bauerfeind’s braces and supports are eligible for reimbursement through most FSA (Flexible Spending Account), HSA (Health Savings Account) and HRA (Health Reimbursement Arrangement) plans.
*Please consult your specific plan administrator for more details.
This information is provided for general information purposes and should not be relied on as a substitute for medical advice, evaluation or care from a qualified and licensed health care provider. The information contained here is not to be considered a plan of care of physical therapy.