Why do basketball players wear only one leg sleeve? 

You may have noticed basketball players wearing just one leg sleeve instead of a pair. But why? Is it for performance, recovery, or simply style? Here is why this trend has become so popular on the court.

A common reason for wearing a single leg sleeve is to protect a recovering or dominant leg. Compression sleeves help by:

• Increasing blood circulation to reduce swelling and soreness.
• Supporting muscles and joints, which can help prevent minor strains.
• Keeping the leg warm to reduce stiffness during and after games.

Players recovering from injuries, such as knee issues or muscle strains, often wear a sleeve on one leg for extra stability while leaving the other unrestricted.

Some players feel that wearing two leg sleeves is too restrictive. Instead, they prefer to:

• Wear one sleeve on their stronger or more active leg for additional support.
• Leave the other leg free to maintain a balance between compression and mobility.

This choice often comes down to what feels best during the game.

Many basketball players have specific routines and lucky gear they rely on. If they perform well while wearing one leg sleeve, they may continue wearing it as part of their pre-game ritual. Some athletes believe that sticking to the same equipment keeps their performance consistent.

The trend of wearing a single leg sleeve began with NBA players and has spread to streetball and amateur leagues. While arm sleeves became popular through players like Allen Iverson, leg sleeves gained traction as more athletes recognized the benefits of compression gear for injury prevention and muscle support. Today, many professional players wear a single leg sleeve for both function and style.

If you want extra support, quicker recovery, or a distinctive look, wearing a single leg sleeve might be a good choice. Whether for comfort, protection, or style, it is all about finding what works best for your game.