LVAD Clothing for HeartMate 3: A Practical Guide
Living with a Left Ventricular Assist Device (LVAD) comes with unique challenges, and finding clothing that works with your equipment shouldn't be one of them. This guide covers what to look for in LVAD clothing, how Genki Garb shirts, tank tops, shorts and leggings carry a HeartMate controller and batteries, and how to care for them.
What Makes Clothing LVAD-Friendly?
LVAD clothing is built around the equipment you carry every day. Good designs:
- Hold the controller and batteries securely
- Protect the driveline from snagging
- Keep the controller within easy reach
- Spread the weight of the equipment across the body
Genki Garb LVAD Clothing
LVAD Shirts and Tank Tops
Our short-sleeve shirts and tank tops are designed around HeartMate controllers and batteries. Key features include:
- Integrated battery pockets
- A secure controller pocket
- Breathable compression fabric (shirts: 85% nylon, 15% spandex)
- A looser-fitting tank top for warm weather or layering
The shirts are compression garments and run small, so check the size chart on the product page and consider ordering one size up from your usual T-shirt size.
LVAD Shorts and Leggings
For the lower body, our shorts and leggings provide:
- Additional battery storage options
- Secure pocket placement for mobility
- Comfortable compression materials
- Support for an active lifestyle
Device Compatibility
Our clothing is designed for HeartMate devices, including the HeartMate 3. If you use a different device, contact us before ordering so we can help you check the fit.
Paying with HSA or FSA Funds
Whether clothing like this qualifies for Health Savings Account or Flexible Spending Account funds depends on your plan. Check with your plan administrator before you buy, and keep your receipts.
Choosing the Right LVAD Clothing
Factors to Consider
1. Your Equipment
- Where you wear your controller
- Battery size and placement
- Which side your driveline exits
2. Lifestyle Needs
- Activity level
- Climate
- Layering preferences
- Work or casual wear
3. Fit and Fabric
- How much compression you want
- Durability
- Washing requirements
- Comfort
Where to Buy
Genki Garb LVAD clothing is available through:
- Our website, genkigarb.com
- Amazon (search "LVAD shirts")
- Our customer service team
Care and Maintenance
Making Your LVAD Clothing Last
- Follow the washing instructions
- Check pockets and straps regularly
- Store garments properly
- Rotate between garments
When to Replace
- Signs of wear in critical areas
- Changes in your equipment
- Loss of compression
- Worn or stretched pockets
Designed with the VAD Community
We design our clothing with input from VAD patients and keep improving it based on their feedback. If something doesn't work for you, tell us.
Next Steps
- Think about how you carry your equipment today
- Check the size chart on the product page
- Explore our shirts, tank tops, shorts and leggings
- Contact our support team with any questions
Living with an LVAD doesn't mean compromising on comfort. The right clothing keeps your equipment secure so you can focus on your day.