Nike knee sleeve is open in the back and fully wraps around the front of the knee. Completely non binding design in the rear keeps the sleeve tight but supportive. Tons of guys ( and some gals ) who play hard just wear these to help protect from rashes and burns on the turf that can get infected. Face-off guys on one knee love em. Goalies Wear them too. Basically a good idea if you are frequently coming off the field all beat up all the timed want something more than 3/4 tights.