⭐⭐⭐⭐ Pioneer Training Knee Sleeves
I purchased the 3XL Pioneer Training Knee Sleeves based on the sizing I use for my 3XL Pioneer Competition Knee Sleeves. My calves measure approximately 17.5", and while the 3XL Training Sleeves weren't loose on the first wear, I do think the sizing runs a little on the larger/less-compressive side compared with competition sleeves.
The best comparison I can make is socks versus compression stockings. They definitely keep my knees warm and provide some coverage, but I wouldn't describe them as providing significant support or compression.
These are honestly a completely different beast than a traditional powerlifting knee sleeve. I personally would not use these for squats. If I'm looking for a less-tight sleeve for lighter training days, I'd probably reach for my Cerberus 9mm Knee Sleeves instead. They still give me the feeling of having a supportive knee sleeve without going all the way to my competition sleeves.
Where I do see these fitting into my training is Strongman Saturdays. I'm firmly #TeamKneeSleeves for most Strongman events, and these could be a really nice option when I want warmth and a little protection without the tightness of a heavy-duty sleeve.
The exterior is noticeably different from both my Cerberus and Pioneer Competition Sleeves. It's much softer, almost quilted/fabric-like, which makes them comfortable and easy to wear for longer training sessions. That softness is a definite plus for comfort.
My one concern is durability for certain Strongman events. I don't think these would be my choice for Atlas Stones. The softer exterior seems like it could take more abuse from rough implements than I'd want to risk.
Overall, I think these are good training/warmth sleeves, but it's important to understand what they are not. Don't buy them expecting the compression and support of a competition knee sleeve. For me, they'll probably find their home on Strongman Saturdays and events where I want warm knees without maximum compression.
4/5 stars — comfortable, warm, and useful for the right application, but not a replacement for a true supportive knee sleeve.
- 5 stars: 0 (0%)
- 4 stars: 1 (100%)
- 3 stars: 0 (0%)
- 2 stars: 0 (0%)
- 1 star: 0 (0%)
⭐⭐⭐⭐ Pioneer Training Knee Sleeves
I purchased the 3XL Pioneer Training Knee Sleeves based on the sizing I use for my 3XL Pioneer Competition Knee Sleeves. My calves measure approximately 17.5", and while the 3XL Training Sleeves weren't loose on the first wear, I do think the sizing runs a little on the larger/less-compressive side compared with competition sleeves.
The best comparison I can make is socks versus compression stockings. They definitely keep my knees warm and provide some coverage, but I wouldn't describe them as providing significant support or compression.
These are honestly a completely different beast than a traditional powerlifting knee sleeve. I personally would not use these for squats. If I'm looking for a less-tight sleeve for lighter training days, I'd probably reach for my Cerberus 9mm Knee Sleeves instead. They still give me the feeling of having a supportive knee sleeve without going all the way to my competition sleeves.
Where I do see these fitting into my training is Strongman Saturdays. I'm firmly #TeamKneeSleeves for most Strongman events, and these could be a really nice option when I want warmth and a little protection without the tightness of a heavy-duty sleeve.
The exterior is noticeably different from both my Cerberus and Pioneer Competition Sleeves. It's much softer, almost quilted/fabric-like, which makes them comfortable and easy to wear for longer training sessions. That softness is a definite plus for comfort.
My one concern is durability for certain Strongman events. I don't think these would be my choice for Atlas Stones. The softer exterior seems like it could take more abuse from rough implements than I'd want to risk.
Overall, I think these are good training/warmth sleeves, but it's important to understand what they are not. Don't buy them expecting the compression and support of a competition knee sleeve. For me, they'll probably find their home on Strongman Saturdays and events where I want warm knees without maximum compression.
4/5 stars — comfortable, warm, and useful for the right application, but not a replacement for a true supportive knee sleeve.

