A novel cartilage-like hydrogel, H_PVA/CS-PSPMA, was developed to mimic the mechanical and lubrication properties of natural cartilage. This hydrogel consists of a top composite lubrication layer and a bottom mechanical load-bearing layer, created by covalently manufacturing thick polyelectrolyte brushes through the sub-surface of a robust PVA/CS hydrogel matrix with multi-level crystallization networks. The hydrogel exhibits a high compression modulus of 11.8 MPa, reversible creep recovery, and excellent anti-swelling properties in physiological medium. It demonstrates persistent lubricity (average COF: ≈0.027) under high contact pressure (2.06 MPa) with 100k reciprocating sliding cycles, negligible wear, and deformation recovery. The hydrogel's lubrication performance is comparable to but exceeds that of natural cartilage, making it suitable as a compliant coating for implantable articular materials. The hydrogel's mechanical strength, anti-swelling ability, and lubrication performance are enhanced by its multi-level crystallization networks and surface hydration. The hydrogel also shows good cytocompatibility and anti-protein properties, making it a promising candidate for cartilage replacement or implant coatings. The study highlights the potential of this hydrogel as a mechanically robust and durable alternative to traditional lubrication systems in biomedical applications.A novel cartilage-like hydrogel, H_PVA/CS-PSPMA, was developed to mimic the mechanical and lubrication properties of natural cartilage. This hydrogel consists of a top composite lubrication layer and a bottom mechanical load-bearing layer, created by covalently manufacturing thick polyelectrolyte brushes through the sub-surface of a robust PVA/CS hydrogel matrix with multi-level crystallization networks. The hydrogel exhibits a high compression modulus of 11.8 MPa, reversible creep recovery, and excellent anti-swelling properties in physiological medium. It demonstrates persistent lubricity (average COF: ≈0.027) under high contact pressure (2.06 MPa) with 100k reciprocating sliding cycles, negligible wear, and deformation recovery. The hydrogel's lubrication performance is comparable to but exceeds that of natural cartilage, making it suitable as a compliant coating for implantable articular materials. The hydrogel's mechanical strength, anti-swelling ability, and lubrication performance are enhanced by its multi-level crystallization networks and surface hydration. The hydrogel also shows good cytocompatibility and anti-protein properties, making it a promising candidate for cartilage replacement or implant coatings. The study highlights the potential of this hydrogel as a mechanically robust and durable alternative to traditional lubrication systems in biomedical applications.