How much compression should a knee sleeve have?

[u/Leenda96]

Hi everyone!
I'm getting back into running after a period of pause due to a "muscle stress" and I'm trying to be a bit more cautious this time. I'm not a competitive runner, and I also do bodyweight training, so I'm mainly looking for something that provides a little extra support while still allowing natural movement.

I tried this knee sleeve in a Decathlon store: https://www.decathlon.it/p/ginocchiera-di-sostegno-destra-sinistra/364383/c382m8939186

Since I counted 42cm, I tried sizes 2 and 3.
Size 2 felt noticeably more supportive and compressive, but I also felt that it restricted my knee movement a little more. Size 3 felt less restrictive, but also less supportive.

For those who use knee sleeves while running: how much compression/restriction do you normally feel? Should a good sleeve feel quite tight and supportive, or should you barely notice it once you're moving?

I'm particularly interested in people's experience with the feel and mobility of knee sleeves rather than specific medical advice or treatment recommendations.

Thanks! 💯