Convolute knit sleeve and method of construction thereof

A convolute protective textile sleeve, comprising:

• a flexible, tubular wall of knit yarn extending lengthwise along a longitudinal axis between opposite ends, said knit yarn including a plurality of courses extending circumferentially about said longitudinal axis and a plurality of wales extending lengthwise from one of said opposite ends to the other of said opposite ends in generally parallel relation with said longitudinal axis, said plurality of courses including a plurality of first courses forming annular crests of said tubular wall having a first diameter and a plurality of second courses forming annular valleys of said tubular wall having a second diameter less than said first diameter, said first courses and said second courses alternating with one another along said longitudinal axis to provide said tubular wall with a convolute contour, wherein said first courses are formed of front knit stitches and said second courses are formed of back knit stitches.