Best Volleyball Knee Pads
With so many volleyball knee pads to choose from it can be difficult to choose the right pair for you. Having the right protection, comfort, durability are all important in finding the right knee pads. We will cover many great options that are out there, as well as give you our tips on choosing the best knee pads for you.
At the end of this article you will find our frequently asked questions for volleyball knee pads as well. So continue on and begin your search for the knee pads that work best for you.
Best Knee Pads For Volleyball
Because people have different legs and knees, not all knee pads are going to fit “just right” for everyone. It also depends on what position you play to the type of knee pads you’ll want to purchase. For example, a libero is going to have different needs in knee pads than a setter.
We chose a variety of options for our list. We’re sure you can find something that works for your needs on the list. However, if you are still wanting to shop around, we have included a buyer’s guide in the following section. By the end of this article, you should have the right information to find the right knee pads for you.
1. Mizuno LR6 Volleyball Knee Pad
- VS-1 padding in high impact zone
- Low-rise, no-fold design
- Complete patella, lateral, and medial protection
Colors Available:
- Black
- White
- Navy
Our top choice for knee pads is the Mizuno LR6. It combines affordability with a quality knee pad by providing the right amount of coverage while giving you greater freedom of movement. When diving for balls, they are very durable by not tearing, ripping, or falling apart easily.
These knee pads are not bulky, but still give you complete coverage. Inside the knee pads, there is padding in high impact areas to absorb the shock when sliding or digging for a volleyball. Many players have said that these knee pads form to your knees and do not need adjusting. They even said because they are so comfortable, it feels like they are not wearing knee pads.
2. Nike Streak Volleyball Knee Pad
- Contoured, shock absorbing foam and abrasion resistance for optimal fit and protection
- Dri-FIT fabric to wick sweat away and help keep you dry and comfortable
- Extra soft brushed interior lining adds comfort
Colors Available:
- Black
- White
The Nike Streak Volleyball knee pads are made with Dri-FIT technology to help players keep cool in the heat of the game. They are made with a thick protective padding to help protect your knees.
Even though these knee pads have great padding, they are not bulky. They are very comfortable and fit nicely to your knees. According to reviews, you might want to buy a size larger than normal. Many people reported they run small.
These knee pads are ideal for liberos and defensive specialists since these positions are often digging and diving for the ball. The great padding will protect their knees while the breathable material will keep them cool.
3. Under Armour 2.0 Volleyball Knee Pads
- Super durable circular knit construction for unmatched comfort, fit & feel
- Dual density EVA foam for increased impact protection. Fit Type Regular
- Hinged design allows for maximum mobility
Colors Available:
- Black
- White
The Under Armour 2.0 volleyball knee pads are made from a super durable knit construction that provides amazing comfort, fit, and feel. Because they are made with a hinged design, it allows for maximum mobility while playing.
Many reviews said that these knee pads stay in place and do not slide around on the knees. They do not need a lot of adjusting throughout the game. These knee pads wash easily and air dry quickly which is very helpful after sweating in a long tournament.
These knee pads work well for the outside, middle, and opposite hitters. They stay in place nicely with all the jumping these positions do. Some people did say they run a little small and had to go up one size.
4. Adidas Elite Knee Pads
- Anatomical flex zones for comfort and mobility
- 7.5" sleeve height
- Easy to pull on and off
Colors Available:
- Black
- White
The Adidas Elite knee pads are made to sculpt the knees comfortably while providing flex zones for comfort and mobility. There is a little bit of stretch built in that makes them easy to pull off and on. They provide full knee coverage without being too bulky.
They are made with multi-density padding of EVA (expanded rubber) and shock-absorbing foam. This protects players from high impacts onto the floor.
These knee pads are good for the libero or defensive specialist in the back row because they stand up strong to any diving to the floor. They are a little longer than other knee pads, but that provides more protection when going to the floor to save a ball.
5. Nike Essentials Volleyball Knee Pads
- Low profile ergonomic high density protective foam pad
- Simplified outer design for a minimalistic and streamlined look
- Improved interior Dri-Fit liner is more comfortable
Colors Available:
- Black
- White
The Nike Essentials volleyball knee pads are made with a comfortable Dri-Fit liner. The simplified outer design makes for a minimalistic and streamlined look. They stay in place well and don’t need much adjustment while playing.
These knee pads are made with a high-density foam to protect against impact and injuries. They allow players to jump and dive during competitive games. The lightweight material allows for easy movement on the court.
When buying these knee pads you may want to go up one size as they seem to run a little small. These knee pads are affordable ranging between $20-$30.
6. ASICS Setter Knee Pads
- GEL Cushioning System
- Low - profile
- Left and right articulated padding provides improved protection and fit
Colors Available:
- Black
- White
The Asics Setter knee pads are highly recommended for the setter position. These knee pads are shorter and more flexible than other knee pads which makes them less restrictive. They are made with a gel cushioning system that provides great impact absorption.
These knee pads are specifically designed for the left and right knees and must be worn on the designated knees. This provides enhanced fit, comfort, and performance to the setter.
Some people have said that these knee pads run small, so you may want to purchase a size larger. Overall, many players have said that these have great coverage while allowing a lot of movement for the setter position.
7. Mizuno Youth T10 Plus Knee Pads
- New youth fit, adjusted length and width to fit smaller players
- No fold design
- Enhanced foam to protect you where you needed It
Colors Available:
- Black
- White
The Mizuno Youth T10 Plus knee pads are perferct for young players that are just starting out playing the game of volleyball. They provide padding on the knees as well as the sides of the knees. The length and width of these knee pads have been adjusted to fit smaller players.
These knee pads offer a slim profile at the same time providing maximum movement. The five separate contoured padded sections are great for protecting the knees especially when the player is younger and growing.
These knee pads are best for kids that are between the ages of 6-10. They are slender enough to fit their knees comfortably and stay in place without having to adjust them.
Volleyball Knee Pads Buyer’s Guide
When you are looking for the right volleyball knee pads for you, it can be difficult to choose. There are several options out there, so knowing what to look for can be very helpful.
Our guide will help you narrow down your options by giving you the things to look for in knee pads. That way, if the knee pads we listed above are not for you, you can hunt down a pair for yourself.
Comfort
Nobody wants to play volleyball with uncomfortable knee pads. It makes it harder to move and can cause injuries. You will want to choose a pair that feels comfortable to you.
Below are a few features that will aid in comfort:
- Fit: Be sure the knee pads fit correctly. You don’t want them to be too tight or too loose. They should fit the shape of your legs.
- Breathability: Knee pads should be breathable to avoid knee allergies and inflammation. Many knee pads provide mesh panels at the back of the knee to help with this.
- Length: Choose the length of knee pad that works best for you. Some people prefer the longer length while others prefer the shorter length. If you play in the back row, having longer knee pads may be helpful.
- Feel: If the knee pads feel as if you’re not wearing them, it might be the right pair for you.
Durability
Making sure your knee pads are durable will help with protecting your knees from injuries. Be sure to look at the materials used and the overall construction of the knee pads.
Materials: Look for materials that stand up to sliding and diving to the floor. Good knee pads are made of gel cushioning or memory foam. Although, gel is more resiliant. Also look at the material used on the outside of the knee pads. If the knee pads contain polyester they become water resistant and won’t collect sweat as much.
Longevity: A pair of knee pads should last through one season. Even if you do a lot of diving on them, they should last that long. If holes are forming, or stitching coming undone, those probably aren’t the most reliable pair of knee pads. Volleyball is usually played on an indoor court or sand, so if you use them on the ground or concrete, they will not last as long.
Protection
You will want to choose knee pads that give your knees just the right protection without being too restrictive on movement. The knee pads should have the right padding, a well constructed shell, and comfort. Protection should be the primary focus when buying knee pads in order to prevent a knee injury.
The Right Padding: The padding in the knee pads should be reactive and shock absorbent. Memory foam and other types of high-density foams provide a high level of protection. Be sure to choose knee pads that have this level of protection.
Well Constructed Shell: The shell of the knee pads is the outside layer and is made of cloth so that they are comfortable on your skin. Good knee pads also provide compression to the knee which is great protection from knee injuries. Make sure the knee pads are a little snug so you aren’t overextending your knees. Having loose knee pads may result in twisting motions of the knees.
Comfort: Find a good balance between protection and comfort. If the knee pads have too much protection, they may become more restrictive to movement. They may also be too bulky getting in the way of your play. At the same time, you don’t want too little protection, so finding that balance between protection and comfort is very important.
You may want to try a few knee pads on to compare which ones are good for your comfort level. Moving around and bending your knees while trying them on will definitely help wity your decision.
Volleyball Knee Pads FAQ
Can volleyball knee pads be washed?
Volleyball knee pads can be washed. Most knee pads can be put right into the washing machine. It is best to air dry them to prevent shrinking.
How long do volleyball knee pads last?
Volleyball knee pads should at least last a whole season. Some will last longer especially if they are thicker.
Can volleyball knee pads go in the dryer?
It is recommended that you do not put volleyball knee pads in the dryer. The best option is to allow them to air dry. Just keep in mind it may take 12 hours for them to fully dry. Putting them in the sun can help speed up the time.
Do volleyball knee pads stretch?
Volleyball knee pads will stretch out a little over time, so buying some that are a little snug will fit perfectly after a few wears.
Why do some players wear knee pads below the knee?
Some players wear knee pads below the knee because that is where the leg would actually contact the floor when kneeling for a low pass.
Conclusion
It may take some time and understanding of what to look for to find the right knee pads for you. With all the choices available, it can be difficult to choose. Be sure to use the information above to help find the right ones.
Any of the knee pads on our list should provide everything you need in knee pads. Be sure to look at all the details to see what would be most comfortable for you.
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