Frequently Asked Questions

Sizes & Measuring

How do I know what size I need?
Each item on our website has a Measuring and Fit guide, to help you find the right size. The sizing guide will walk you through the process of measuring your body to find the best fit. You can also watch our video on measuring for a brace. If you need help determining the appropriate size, we’re happy to help! Call us at 1-800-423-3405.

How do I measure for a brace?
Finding the right size for your body is important to ensure comfort and stability. Each item on our website has a Measuring and Fit guide, to help you find the right size. Follow the instructions on the sizing guide. You will need measuring tape - preferably cloth like the kind a seamstress would use. If you do not have a measuring tape, you can use a piece of string and a ruler. Please feel free to call us at 1-800-423-3405 if you need help determining the appropriate size.

What if I’m between sizes? Should I purchase the smaller or larger size?
Choose the larger size for a more gentle compression or the smaller size for a more firm compression. When between sizes, the average person prefers the smaller size for a more secure fit, unless you are sensitive to compression. If you are unsure what size you need, contact our experts and we’ll be happy to help. Call 1-800-423-3405 or click to chat live online.

How tight should my brace be?
Your brace should support you firmly but not be so tight that it feels like its interfering with circulation. You should not feel squeezing discomfort while you are wearing the brace.

Other supports don’t fit my body correctly. Will Bauerfeind?
The fit is what sets us apart! Bauerfeind products are designed for an anatomically precise fit that adapts to most body sizes and shapes. Our soft knit is three-dimensional, which makes the material stretchy for a better, more comfortable fit while also allowing the brace to provide stability. And, our processes are constantly enhanced based on the latest research. Bauerfeind is the closest to a custom fit you will find without the time and expense of a made-to-order product.

The best way to understand the Bauerfeind difference is to try one on and see for yourself how our fit is designed to conform to your body, for maximum comfort and stability.

I can only wear other supports for a short time before they are uncomfortable. How is Bauerfeind different?
Bauerfeind products are designed to be the most comfortable braces and supports you will ever wear. Our patented soft knit material, extreme comfort and exceptional support define each product. There’s no bunching or pinching of the skin. The “graduated compression” at the edges prevents the product from rolling, slipping or constricting circulation. And, our unique stretch fabric provides more compression for greater muscle stability. All products are hypo-allergenic and will not irritate the skin. They are comfortable enough to wear for hours of activity.

Care

Can I wash my brace?
Yes. Washing regularly helps our supports maintain their shape and last longer. All Bauerfeind supports are made with machine washable materials. Here’s how to care for your brace:

For products with Velcro straps, pads or inserts, remove them if possible, or fasten them securely at the place provided on the brace. Machine wash your brace in cold water using the gentle or delicate cycle. Wash separately using a laundry detergent with no additives (do not use fabric softener or Woolite). Lay your support flat and let it air-dry; do not put it in the dryer. Proper washing and drying helps your knit support maintain its elasticity and original fit.

More more information see our blog post, Washable Braces: Don’t Settle For Stinky!

When I wear a brace, it causes me to sweat. How can I avoid this?
Bauerfeind braces are made of soft knit material, so they are breathable. The moisture wicking fabric draws moisture away from your body, to keep you dry and sweat-free. When you need to, you can toss your Bauerfeind brace support in the washer on the gentle cycle, air-dry it and it will not lose its shape, elasticity or original fit.

How long will it last?
Our products are built to stand the test of time. Our exclusive design and materials make for an extremely durable product. Elasticity does not change over time. Regular washing helps to extend the life of the support. Toss the brace in the washing machine on the gentle cycle, lay it flat and air dry it, knowing it won’t lose its original shape or fit. Generally speaking, our customers report that Bauerfeind braces and supports last about 2 years. However, with proper care and use, some people report they get even longer life of their product.

Product Information

What’s the difference between the Medical and Sports Supports lines?
Both lines offer medical-grade compression and will have the same medical benefits of increased healing bloodflow, stability and proprioception. Sports Supports are ideal for shorter bursts of intense activity (like a workout or a basketball game), whereas Medical Supports are softer and more comfortable for all-day wear. Sports Supports are great for injury prevention, but if you already have an injury you're trying to recover from, we’d recommend going with the Medical Supports.

The Sports Supports are a new(er) product designed with the athlete in mind. It is made with a unique 3D AirKnit fabric material which is 30% lighter weight, more breathable and moisture-wicking than the Medical Supports line. Sports Supports also incorporates new "gripping zones" to help the support stay in place during lots of movement.

What’s the difference between GenuTrain, GenuTrain A3, GenuTrain P3 and GenuTrain S?
Each brace is designed specifically for a different type of injury or pain. You can find comprehensive information, as well as a comparison chart, on the Product Details page. Here’s an overview:

GenuTrain® is designed for weak, swollen or painful knees. This brace support is best for nagging pain such as tendinitis/jumper’s knee.

GenuTrain P3® relieves pain caused by misalignment of the kneecap (patellar femoral syndrome) or tracking issues.

GenuTrain A3® is designed for degenerative knee pain such as osteoarthritis, middle knee injuries or pain on the inner side of the knee.

GenuTrain S® is best if you suffer from more advance osteoarthritis of the knee, rheumatoid arthritis, bone-on-bone arthritis or MCL/LCL ligament injuries.

For more information about our full Knee Braces (including our GenuTrain line) with comparision chart, click here.

I think I should use a brace for a medical condition. How do I know what kind I need?
We suggest that you seek advice from your doctor to ensure you get the correct brace for your specific condition. Of course, we are always available to assist in selecting the right brace, but our advice does not take the place of talking to your doctor. Contact us via phone, email or live chat.

Shipping, Returns & Warranty

Can I ship to a PO Box?
For shipping to a PO Box, please select “Free Economy Shipping”.

Freight Forwarding orders will be cancelled.
Bauerfeind USA does not ship to any address outside the United States, this includes to any freight-forwarding service, where the product will be eventually shipped out of the country. If you would like to order Bauerfeind outside of the US, please contact your local area Bauerfeind retailer or distributor.

How long will it take to receive my brace?
For shipping to Alaska or Hawaii, please select “Free Economy Shipping” and call customer service for further assistance 1-800-423-3405.

• Free Economy Shipping - Order arrives in 7-10 business days
  
• $7.99 - Order arrives in 3-7 business days
  
• $17.99 - Order arrives in 3 business days
  
• $24.99 - Order arrives in 2 business days
  
• $34.99 - Order arrives next business day

What’s your return policy?
We want you to be completely satisfied with your purchase. You can try on the product, walk around your home with it, but please do not use it for physical activities or sweat in it prior to returning it.

A time limit of 60 days from the date of purchase for returns applies for all consumer purchases (i.e. non-retail). All returns must be in original packaging and received in new and resalable condition. Credits for returns are issued only to the original purchaser. Bauerfeind strongly recommends shipping your return through UPS. Bauerfeind is not responsible for returned packages lost by any delivery service.

Do you have a warranty?
Yes. We want you to be 100% satisfied with your Bauerfeind products. Our braces and supports come with a one-year warranty. Compression hose have a 30-day manufacturer’s warranty. We guarantee that Bauerfeind products will be free from manufacturing defects. We will either replace the product or issue you a refund. (Normal wear and tear during the usage of the product is not considered a defect.) If the product has not been washed or properly cared for, this could negate a warranty replacement.

Health Insurance

Will my health insurance cover the cost of braces and supports?
Some health plans do. Every insurance policy has different coverage. Check with your insurance provider.

Are Bauerfeind braces and supports FSA eligible?
Oftentimes they are. Most Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA) do cover braces and supports. However, every FSA provider has different policies on eligible health care expenses. Check with your provider to be sure.

Getting Help

I have a question about a specific item. How can I get more information?
Our experts are standing by to help answer any questions you have. Call our customer service department at 1-800-423-3405, chat live online or send an email to info@bauerfeindusa.com.

How long do I wear my brace or support?
This depends on your individual condition and activity. Some people only wear their product when they are performing an activity that is challenging or irritating to them, such as playing a sport or carrying luggage through the airport. Other people will wear their product all day, every day. Some people switch back and forth between the two depending on if they are having a good day or bad day. It is up to you how much you want to wear our products. We just recommend you do not sleep in them due to the medical grade compression, reduced movement (in some products), and sensation while asleep.

Why have I never heard of Bauerfeind before? Are you new?
Bauerfeind was founded 80 years ago in Germany. We have been in the USA for over 30 years. We were exclusively available at medical offices only up until a few years ago. While we are still available in medical facilities, we now also sell our products directly to the consumer. A few of our post-surgical products are still prescription only and they are not listed on this web site.

Can you wear your products for sports?
Bauerfeind braces and supports provide the flexibility and support to allow you to play your favorite sports. For sports where the brace will have multiple high-impact encounters with the court or other hard surfaces, remember the brace is not a substitute for a knee pad. Failure to use a knee pad could result in excessive wear and tear that is not covered by product warranty.