ION Wing Sleeve Knee

The ION Wing Sleeve Knee is a lightweight protective sleeve built specifically for wing foiling. Developed by ION — a brand with roots in both watersports and mountain biking — the sleeve draws on over a decade of MTB knee-protection design to address a common pain point in wingfoiling: knee abrasion from repeated board contact. The sleeve uses an abrasion-resistant outer layer paired with a flexible, low-profile construction that sits close to the skin without adding bulk.

The material blend — primarily polyamide reinforced with EVA foam, elastane, rubber, and silicone — is engineered to resist scuffing while remaining supple enough for full knee articulation. Rubberized grip bands line the inside of the upper and lower cuffs, which helps the sleeve stay in position whether worn over a wetsuit, under one, or directly against bare skin.

• Material: 62% Polyamide, 21% Ethylene Vinyl Acetate, 10% Elastane, 4% Rubber, 3% Silicone
• Available sizes: 48/S, 50/M, 52/L, 54/XL
• Color: Black
• SKU: 48240-5938
• Wear options: Over wetsuit, under wetsuit, or standalone

ION positions the Wing Sleeve Knee primarily at entry-level and progressing wing foilers. Riders at this stage tend to start from a kneeling position on the board frequently, generating repeated friction between knees and deck pad. That cumulative abrasion can wear through wetsuit neoprene quickly and leave skin raw after longer sessions. The sleeve acts as a sacrificial layer, absorbing that contact so the rider's skin and suit don't have to.

That said, the low-profile fit makes it practical for intermediate riders as well — anyone who values wetsuit longevity or prefers a bit of cushioning during water starts. Because it doesn't restrict range of motion, it stays out of the way once the rider is up and foiling. Riders in warm-water climates who session without a wetsuit will also find standalone use straightforward thanks to the silicone-lined cuffs.

Within ION's wingfoil accessory range, the Wing Sleeve Knee fills a focused niche alongside impact vests, helmets, harnesses, and leashes. It's the only dedicated knee-protection piece in the lineup; riders looking for broader coverage would step up to ION's Protection Suit, a full wetsuit with reinforced panels at the elbows, shins, and knees. The sleeve is the lighter, modular alternative for riders who already own a standard wetsuit and simply want targeted knee protection.

In the broader market, comparable options include generic neoprene knee sleeves repurposed from surfing or volleyball, but few competitors offer a purpose-built wingfoil knee sleeve with this specific material blend. The ION sleeve's EVA and polyamide construction differentiates it from basic neoprene wraps by prioritizing abrasion resistance over thermal insulation — a trade-off that reflects its design intent as protective armor rather than warmth gear.