Most people misunderstand the level of intensive play that goes on in a good volleyball game. It’s a strong game that requires regular training and a strong physiology. Part of the game requires diving for a ball, sliding along the floorboards and even a fair share of falling, with your knees often taking the brunt of the force. This is the main reason why having the right protection while playing the sport is important, and kneepads are an important part of the ensemble.
Best Sellers in Volleyball Knee Pads
Overall The BEST VOLLEYBALL Knee Pad: Mizuno LR6 Volleyball Kneepad
The top selling kneepad by Mizuno is a market leader with over 4000 positive reviews. Prices range from $20-35 and come in three colors, blue, black and white.
Nike Streak Volleyball Knee Pad
A close second, the Nike Streak volleyball knee pad is generally preferred by those who want a bit of style and prefer a tighter set.
Adidas Unisex-Adult Elite Knee Pad
Although unisex, these are favoured by women volleyball players. Most reviewers stated that these are ideal for those that do a fair bit of digging.
Best Volleyball kneepads for Juniors: Bodyprox Volleyball Knee Pads for Junior Youth
For players between the years of 8-13 this has proven to be the most popular set of knee pads.
The Main Reasons to Wear Knee Pads in Volleyball
Although the sport isn’t a contact sport, there is significant contact with the floor, especially if you are going to play aggressively. Keeping your knees protected from hard wooden floors of the volleyball court is an important way to ensure you can keep playing for longer.
A one of knee injury may not significantly impair you, however constant diving and contact will over time cause injury. A good set of knee pads will reduce the impact, and cushion the fall.
Beyond injury prevention, consider the level of comfort knee pads can add to your game. Even if you don’t hurt your knee due to hard impact. Light grazes breaking the skin can cause undue discomfort and ruin the rest of your game. Knee pads are an excellent way to prevent scratches and grazes on the kneecaps area.
There is also the support factor. A firm knee pad will support your knee better than not having one on.
Additionally, there is the “peace of mind” element. Your game might end up being a lot more confident as you are less concerned about constant injury – it’s easier to dive for the volleyball knowing your knees are protected than when you know you are bare and susceptible to injury.
Picking the Best Knee Pads for Volleyball
There are a range of factors to consider when buying knee pads beyond the brand name:
- Mobility
- Comfort
- Cushioning
- Padding
- Type of fastening
- Security of fastening
- Durability
- Color
- Brand
- Size
The main materials used to create most knee pads are either one of or a combination of:
- Cotton
- Nylon
- Polyester
- Neoprene
- Gel Foam
- Memory Foam
Cushioning
The primary shock absorption comes from the Gel Foam or Memory Foam – the outer materials are usually judged on their comfort and durability. The heavier set you are the more cushioning yo will need.
Size
Size is a very important element to consider – badly fitting protective gear is dangerous to wear. Your knee pad shouldn’t be too tight or too loose – especially keep an eye on the fasteners. You don’t want a pad that keeps slipping or comes off.
Mobility
Although keeping the knee pad tight is important it is equally important to ensure that you have full mobility while playing. Keeping all movement flexible will make sure you have a solid experience.
Durability and Quality
For regular play you should invest in a high-quality set of knee pads and consider them a long term investment rather than something disposable. A good brand, made of high-quality materials is most likely going to last longer and really would save you money in the long run.
How To Wear Volleyball Knee Pads
Every sport has its own unique motion. The primary reason to wear knee pads is to prevent diving or sliding injury. In order to make sure you are wearing your kneepads correctly; you want to consider what part of your knee makes contact first.
- Padding should face forward
- The knee pad should be placed below the kneecap
- Try a faux dive to see if the support is correct
- Adjust if uncomfortable
- Make sure fastening is tight enough to stay on
What is the best brand of volleyball knee pads?
Although there are many manufacturers of knee pads, the five below are usually in the highest reviewed amongst players:
- Nike
- Adidas
- Mizuno
- Asics
- Under Armour
