Volleyball Knee Pads
Wearing knee pads (or kneepads) is pretty standard in indoor women’s volleyball. For men, there are a growing number that choose to wear knee pads. Knee pads are recommended for young athletes of both genders in order to help protect them when they fall (which they often do). Younger players especially do not know how to roll properly, and this can put a lot of pressure on the knees when falling.
Pros of Knee Pads
What are the benefits of wearing knee pads?
- Knee pads help protect players from getting bruises on their knees and can help cushion the blow from a hard fall.
- You never know what is going to be on the court (from gum to some sand to the metal part of a hair tie) so wearing kneepads can potentially prevent bloody injuries that can take a player out of the game.
- There are many different styles, colors, and makes of knee pads. Thus, it is easy to find a comfortable pair to your liking.
Cons of Knee Pads
What are the cons of wearing knee pads?
- Some players complain that knee pads restrict their range of movement or that knee pads slow them down.
- Sometimes younger players become too reliant on their knee pads and fall more often than they should instead of staying on their feet and running a ball down.
Questions about Knee Pads
Check out our Knee Pad Frequently Asked Questions page to see all the questions athletes have asked about knee pads or to ask a question yourself.
Knee Pad Product Reviews
Check out our table with many popular knee pad brands along with a product description and a review from us, Volleyball U.
| Knee Pads | Product Description | VolleyballU Comments | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Stay protected with less bulk with the New Ace low-profile kneepad from Asics. This adult kneepad is a one-size-fits most design. When measured around the knee, it is built to fit 12" - 18". | Although tight at first, the ASICS Ace Low Profile Knee Pads quickly stretch out to fit your legs. They are said to be very comfortable and offer great support and protection for knees. | ||
 | These are ortholite volleyball kneepads that contain kintetofoam. 7 1/2-inch sleeve, ultra low profile. | These kneepads are said to run very tight, so be sure you buy a size larger than you think you need. The padding is said to be adequate for younger players but may not provide enough padding for older athletes. | ||
  | Now available in Pink and Columbia blue. Features: economically priced, engineered flex zones, full coverage (9-1/2" sleeve). One size fits most. | These knee pads are thicker than some of the other, low-profile models. However, they provide great protection for your knees. They are recommended for liberos and defensive specialists (or other players who hit the floor a lot). | ||
 | Save your knees the next time you're playing. Our knit elastic sleeve protects the knees from strawberries and direct trauma. Also makes it easier to knee slide for that tough dig off the floor. | The Mikasa Advanced Competition Kneepads are low profile and fit younger players very well. They absorb sweat and impact pretty well. | ||
 | The Mikasa Youth Volleyball Knee Pad does more than protect your knees from bump and scratches. This exceptional volleyball knee padding both fights Staph infection and eliminates odor! Jump, serve and spike in comfort with this innovative Mikasa sports knee pad! | Surprisingly enough, these knee pads are said to run a bit large. They offer good flexibility, protection, and are said to be quite comfortable. | ||
| The Mizuno LR6 Kneepad features VS-1 padding for complete protection, and the DF Cut pad which provides greater freedom of movement. | These knee pads are very low-profile and do not restrict your range of motion. They are good for older, more experienced athletes. They tend to run small, so buy a size larger than you think you need. | ||
 | The Mizuno T10 Kneepad is a one size, slim profile kneepad that features five separate contoured padded sections for maximum protection. | Many younger athletes like the Mizuno T10 knee pads. Some older (or taller) players may find them too tight at first and might need to stretch them out. Regardless, these provide good protection. | ||
| The Mizuno VS-1 Kneepad utilizes VS-1 padding for increased protection, and the DF Cut provides superior fit without the bulk. The VS-1 also features the Mizuno Intercool ventilation system which reduces the heat and humidity build-up inside the kneepad. | Some players complain that these knee pads do not provide enough protection, but many find them adequate. They are high-quality and tend to last for a while compared to other similar knee pads. | ||
 | When diving on the ground, the nahdeh SKP-1000 Premium Knee Pad will absorb and redistribute the energy instead of your knees. | According to reviews, these are some of the best knee pads on the market. They provide all-around protection and comfort while still being low-profile. Their sizes run pretty standard as well, so no need to buy a size up or down. | ||
 | The Nike Essentials VB Knee Pads low profile ergonomic high density protective foam pad and simplified outer design allows for a minimalistic and streamlined look. Length: 6.7", Width: 6.25." Improved outer knit stands up to high level play. Improved interior Dri-Fit liner is more comfortable. | The Nike Essentials VB Knee Pads are said to run extra small, so you might want to consider buying a few sizes up to make sure they will fit. They are low-profile and said to provide adequate protection. | ||
 | Tachikara TK Smash Junior Knee Pad is ideal for the beginner and recreational player. Cotton sleeve with segmented foam construction for comfort and flexibility. One size fits most all juniors. | Although the knee pads provide adequate protection, some people have had problems with the sizing. Additionally, some players find them almost too bulky. | ||
 | Protect your knees with wild style thanks to the Tachikara® Zebra knee pads! They feature quality cotton sleeves and segmented foam padding. | These knee pads are more for beginners and thus are pretty thick. They offer excellent protection for beginning athletes but do not slide very well. |