knee brace alternatives

[paper racer]

I can't afford knee braces. Whats the next best thing. My knees are fine it's just a preventative measure. Thanks

 

[Jaybird]

Last time I crashed without knee braces on, I spent 4 hours in the emergency room and about 4 weeks on crutches. This was with no major pulls or tears.
$1500.00..... can you afford that?

 

[JTT]

Best bet to avoid injury (without braces) is to build strong muscle tissue to protect the joint. Concentrate on leg workouts in the gym, and practice balancing on one leg. I know it sounds dumb, but it does work and was a recommended exercise, by my physiotherapist, after a nasty knee injury. Once "plain" balancing is too easy, work on juggling a ball or similar at the same time. This works to throw you off balance and force the knee to work. Maintain a slightly bent knee while doing these exercise. If your really keen, you can build yourself a "wobble board" (a 16' square board with rockers installed on the bottom), and do the same exercises.

 

[HiG4s]

Eckard has neopren rubber supports with spring steel side bars. They won't help in a serious crash, but will help some if used with good knee pads.

 

[Fred T]

Duct Tape your Knees!

Just kidding. I got some knee supports at Walgreen which wrap the knee and secure with velcro. I don't do any MX jumping just dodging trees so these feel pretty good after a long day on the trails.