It is made from Drytex, a lightweight, more breathable alternative to neoprene (which is used for surfers’ wetsuits). The better airflow means that the Playmaker is good for warm climates or allergy sufferers. The brace can be worn in water, both fresh and salt. A sports cover worn over the brace while doing water sports helps prevent the water current loosening the straps.
With the Playmaker, which can be worn on either leg, you have a choice of a sleeve or a wraparound form. The sleeve is put on by removing your shoe and sliding the brace over the foot and up the leg. The sleeve fits snugly and tends to stay in place better than the wraparound, although it is a bit harder to get on and off and doesn’t work very well over pants.
The wraparound, with its Velcro straps that can be adjusted for a better fit, is easier to get on and off. It works over thin pants, and is good for people who might have trouble bending over. The Velcro attachments can become loose with activity, meaning you might have to occasionally tighten them.
You also have the option of a popliteal cutout, which is an opening in the brace, at the back of the knee. The cutout can reduce the Drytex pinching the skin when the knee is bent. It is also cooler to wear. The popliteal cutout does not alter the efficiency of the brace, so it’s purely a personal preference. If you get a lot of knee swelling, the closed popliteal might be a good choice, to stop any swelling migrating through the cutout.
With the Playmaker, you can choose if you want a patella donut. This surrounds the kneecap and provides some extra cushioning.
Care of the brace is straightforward. If it is used in salt water or chlorinated water it should be rinsed off with fresh water. Wash it by hand, or in the machine on a delicate cycle, using cold water and a mild laundry detergent. Don’t put it in the dryer, but lay it flat to air-dry. A Teflon-based lubricant (bicycle lubricant) is good for the hinges if the brace is often in water.
The Playmaker is Donjoy's premier soft good knee ligament brace.Playmaker is an extremely comfortable brace to wear. A low profile design, breathable fabric, and polycentric hinges that allow for uninhibited movement of the knee make this brace a favorite amongst athletes.
It is recommended for non-contact sports and activities of daily living. Suitable for mild to moderate ACL and/or PCL, MCL and LCL instabilities, this neoprene brace with extended hinge bars is an ideal intermediate-level product that can be used in sporting activities.
The strap design of the Playmaker knee brace family enhances support of the knee joint, and in particular, the anterior cruciate ligament. The DonJoy Playmaker knee brace is available as a sleeve or wraparound brace, and with or without open popliteal cutout (opening behind the knee). Polycentric Hinges conform to the knee joint's natural motion so you’ll get to enjoy uninhibited movement of your knee.
