A medical electrical lead employs a load bearing sleeve arrangement. A medical electrical lead includes an outer sleeve, having proximal and distal ends, and is formed of a first material. At least one electrical conductor is situated within the outer sleeve and extends between the proximal and distal ends of the outer sleeve. At least one electrode is electrically coupled to the electrical conductor. A load bearing sleeve extends between the proximal and distal ends of the outer sleeve. The load bearing sleeve is formed of a second material different from the first material. The load bearing sleeve offers resistance to axial loading forces applied to the lead. The load bearing sleeve can be coextensive with the outer sleeve or extend along at least the majority of the length of the outer sleeve.