Tennis Elbow Brace - Compare the UK's top over the counter braces

Introduction

Tennis elbow (lateral epicondylitis) braces work by reducing the strain on the tendons that attach to the lateral elbow. A common design is the counterforce strap worn around the forearm just below the elbow. This strap applies focused pressure to the extensor muscles/tendons of the forearm, effectively shifting the point of tension away from the tendon’s attachment at the elbow. By compressing the forearm muscles, a counterforce brace disperses forces that would otherwise pull on the injured tendon, thereby relieving pain and preventing further irritation. In addition, some braces are full elbow sleeves or combo designs that provide overall compression and warmth to the joint. This general compression can improve circulation and reduce inflammation, helping ease symptoms and promote healing. Below is a comparison of several over-the-counter tennis elbow braces (UK market, Oct 2025) – all non-vibrating supports – including their key features, materials, sizing, prices, and user feedback.

Comparison of Tennis Elbow Braces (UK, Oct 2025)

Boots Sport Tennis/Golf Elbow Strap (One Size)

Boots (store brand)

£14.00

Counterforce strap

Nylon, PU foam, polyester, SBR (neoprene blend)

One-size adjustable (forearm 22–38 cm) reversible for left or right arm

Padded forearm pressure pad for targeted compression; Velcro adjustable strap for custom fit; Washable and reusable design

No ratings listed (N/A)

Neo G Tennis/Golf Elbow Strap (One Size)

Neo G

£15.30 (sale)
Was ~£17

Counterforce strap

Neoprene, elastane, polyester, polyamide; silicone pad

One-size fits most (adjustable); Unisex, fits left or right

Inbuilt dampening pad concentrates pressure on tendon; fully adjustable hook-and-loop strap; neoprene material provides therapeutic warmth; ideal for tennis or golfer’s elbow

4.5 ★ (87% recommend) (Argos, 100+ reviews)

Aircast Pneumatic Armband (Universal)

Aircast/DJO

~£19.96

Counterforce strap

Breathable fabric strap with pre‑inflated aircell (air bladder)

One-size universal (adjustable; fits most forearms ~8–14″)

Air cushion focuses compression on extensor muscle (less constriction around arm); conforms to forearm’s contour for comfort; simple one‑strap Velcro design for easy application

4.2 ★ (out of 5) (widely used; 1K+ Amazon reviews)

Vulkan Classic Elbow Support w/ Strap (S–XL)

Vulkan

£17.99

Elbow sleeve + strap

Neoprene 80%, nylon 15%, elastic 5%

Four sizes (S, M, L, XL); measure elbow circumference (e.g. S 22–25 cm, M 25–28 cm, etc.)

Neoprene support sleeve provides heat retention and compression to the joint; built-in tension strap adds extra forearm pressure to relieve tendon strain “Aerotherm” ventilated neoprene tech for comfort; Level 2 (firm) support for strains/tendonitis

No user rating info (new/uncited)

Shock Doctor Elbow Sleeve (with Gel) (S, M, L, XL)

Shock Doctor

£6.99

Compression sleeve

Knitted polyamide blend (elastic compression fabric)

Multiple sizes (unisex); sleeve must fit snug – S, M, L, XL available

Contoured knit applies even compression around elbow; integrated gel pads target pressure on sore tendons; breathable, moisture-wicking and lightweight for all-day use; suitable for moderate support of tennis/golfer’s elbow

No user ratings found

Pros and Cons of Each Brace

• Boots Sports Tennis/Golf Elbow Strap (Boots) –
  • Pros: Affordable and easy to find in the UK. Simple one-size design with a cushioned pad provides focused relief on the forearm tendon. Fully adjustable hook-and-loop strap; also washable for reusability.
  • Cons: Lacks extra fancy features (no gel or air bladders) – it’s a basic strap, which may be less comfortable for long wear compared to designs with advanced padding. Only one color/brand option (Boots) and no specific user reviews available for performance feedback.
• Neo G Tennis/Golf Elbow Strap –
  • Pros: Well-regarded brand with a quality build. Features a silicone compression pad that dampens vibration and adds pressure exactly where needed. Heat‐therapeutic neoprene material can soothe muscles/tendons. One-size-fits-most and can be worn on either arm. Highly reviewed – ~4.5★ average, with ~87% of users recommending it, indicating effective relief for many.
  • Cons: As a neoprene strap, it can get warm or sweaty during extended use. “One size” may not fit extremely large or very small forearms perfectly (those near the edges of the 17.8–35.6 cm range). A bit pricier than generic straps (around £15–17). The velcro strap and neoprene may wear over time with heavy use.
• Aircast Pneumatic Armband –
  • Pros: Uses an aircell bladder to concentrate pressure on the extensor muscle, which many medical professionals recommend for tennis elbow. The air cushion provides targeted compression without overly squeezing the entire arm (more comfortable for long use). One-size design is easy to put on/take off and fits either arm. Well-established product with a long track record – large number of users and solid ratings (~4.2★ on Amazon) attest to its effectiveness in pain relief.
  • Cons: Costs more than simple straps; typically around £18–20. The single strap provides less overall elbow support (it’s purely a forearm band), so it won’t warm the joint like a sleeve does. Velcro closure can accumulate wear. A few users report the air pad can lose pressure or shift after lengthy use, so proper placement and occasional readjustment is needed.
• Vulkan Classic Elbow Support with Strap –
  • Pros: Combines a compression elbow sleeve with an adjustable forearm strap – offering both joint support and targeted tendon relief. The neoprene sleeve gives consistent compression/heat to improve circulation (useful if you have general elbow ache or stiffness in addition to tendon pain). The added tension strap can be tightened to dial in pressure on the tendon as needed. Comes in multiple sizes for a more tailored fit; ensures better comfort and efficacy than one-size solutions for some people.
  • Cons: Must choose the correct size – an extra step versus universal straps (and if between sizes, fit might not be perfect). Neoprene material, while supportive, is bulkier and can feel hot or sweaty during vigorous activity or in warm weather. The sleeve+strap combo may restrict elbow movement slightly more than a minimalist strap (trade-off for higher support level). Generally no quick on/off – you have to pull the sleeve on – which might be less convenient if you only need the support during specific activities.
• Shock Doctor Elbow Compression Sleeve (Gel Support) –
  • Pros: Low-profile knit sleeve that can be worn under clothing comfortably. Breathable, moisture-wicking fabric suits all-day wear. Flexible gel pads built into the sleeve provide extra pressure on tender spots (lateral and medial elbow) without needing a separate strap. Good for those who want mild to moderate compression around the whole elbow joint – it can reduce swelling and offer general support during activity. Very affordable (around £7), especially given the brand reputation.
  • Cons: Compression level is moderate (aimed at “minor sprains or strains”), so it may not relieve severe tennis elbow pain as instantly as a tight strap can. Lacks the adjustability of a strap – you rely on the elastic fit, so getting the right size is crucial for effectiveness. No separate tightening strap means less focused pressure on the tendon compared to dedicated counterforce bands. Also, because it’s a sleeve, it won’t target the forearm muscle as precisely as a band – some users might still prefer to combine it with a strap for intense activities.

Each of these braces can help manage tennis elbow symptoms by reducing tendon load, though their designs differ. Counterforce straps (like Boots, Neo G, Aircast) excel at pinpoint pressure on forearm tendons, while sleeve designs (Vulkan, Shock Doctor) add overall support or warmth. The best choice often comes down to personal comfort, severity of condition, and when you plan to wear it. Always ensure the brace fits correctly and follow product instructions for optimal relief.