11 Best Volleyball Kneepads Of 2024

The best knee pads for volleyball can protect your knees and act as a shock-proof layer to your knees. In addition, they offer protection to your hamstring, tibia bones, and quadriceps, which are prone to external impact. Knee pads also improve the circulation in the veins present in your arteries and veins in your knees. To help you buy one that offers maximum protection, here is our curated list of some best-selling and field-tested knee pads in various sizes, colors, support, and padding.

In This Article

11 Best Knee Pads For Volleyball

1. Best Comfortable: Adidas Adult Elite Knee Pads

4.5

These sculpted knee pads from the trusted brand Adidas are made of 60 percent polyester, 26 percent viscose, and 14 percent elastodiene and feature a 7.5-inch sleeve. These popular volleyball knee pads have anatomical flex zones for maximum comfort and mobility. Further, these are unisex knee pads that anyone can wear.

Material: ‎Blend | Color: ‎Core White/Black | Item Dimensions LxWxH: ‎7 x 7.6 x 2.5 inches

Pros

  • Offer full-knee coverage
  • Don’t feel too bulky
  • Durable and long-lasting
  • Comfortable

Cons

  • May not be able to roll down much
  • Padding might be hard

Our Reviewer's Experience

"I found these knee pads lightweight, comfortable, and reliable. They serve my son and me well during practices despite being of different skill levels. They are a pretty decent option."


protip_icon Did you know?
Knee injuries are prevalent among volleyball players due to the impact caused by uneven landing and repetitive jumps (1).

2. Best Coverage:Mizuno T10 Plus Volleyball Knee pad

4.6
Mizuno T10 Plus Volleyball Kneepad Image: Mizuno

The Mizuno volleyball kneepads are full-length sleeves that provide maximum coverage. The quality knee pads are available in two colors, black and white, and are ideal for beginners, elementary schoolers, and middle schoolers. The tried-and-trusted pair is made of 68% polyester, 11% elastic, and 20% rayon. Additionally, the kneepads are easy to put on due to their pull-on style. Lastly, their unisex design makes them suitable for both men and women.

Material: Polyester | Color: Black | Product Dimensions: 13 x 8 x 2 inches | Weight: 3.52 Ounces.

Pros

  • Snug fit
  • Easy to maintain
  • Superior cushioning
  • Thick but not bulky
  • Durable

Cons

  • Available only in one size
  • May bunch up at the back of the knee

Our Reviewer's Experience

"My nephew seems to appreciate the fitting of these pads; they stay put during intense sports activities, giving him ease of movement. Plus, the material is pretty durable. I would recommend them for the comfort and protection they offer."


3. Best Lightweight: Bodyprox Store Volleyball Knee Pads

4.4
Bodyprox Store Volleyball Knee Pads Image: Bodyprox

This pair of knee pads is made of high-density strengthened foam that offers good elasticity and breathable fabric. The lightweight knee pads are non-slip and ideal for outdoor sports due to their ergonomic design. They ensure freedom of movement and give you a competitive edge on the court.

Material: Foam | Color: Black | Product Dimensions: 5 x 5 x 0.7 inches | Weight: 4.16 Ounces

Pros

  • Effective in protecting and preventing knee injuries
  • Efficiently impact-resistant
  • Unisex design
  • Increase blood circulation
  • Lightweight design
  • Suitable for men and women

Cons

  • May not be durable enough

Our Reviewer's Experience

"These volleyball knee pads have been great for my daughter's practice sessions, offering a snug fit and solid protection without hindering movement. They do feel slightly itchy at first, but she found them quite comfortable after a few uses. Overall, it has been a worthy purchase."


Adidas Adult Elite Knee Pads
Best Comfortable
Mizuno T10 Plus Volleyball Knee pad
Best Coverage
Bodyprox Store Volleyball Knee Pads
Best Lightweight
Material ‎Blend Polyester Foam
Color ‎Core White/Black Black Black
Dimensions LxWxH ‎7 x 7.6 x 2.5 inches--
Dimensions- 13 x 8 x 2 inches 5 x 5 x 0.7 inches
Weight- 3.52 Ounces. 4.16 Ounces
Rating
Reviews2115405,730
Price$29.49$16.04$15.99

4. Best Easy-To-Wear: Nike Essentials Volleyball Knee Pads

4.5
Nike Essentials Volleyball Knee Pads Image: Nike Essentials

These popular volleyball knee pads from the trusted brand Nike have an ergonomic design and are supported by a high-density protective foam pad that provides maximum comfort to your knees. In addition, the outer structure is simplified to achieve a streamlined and minimalistic appearance. They also have an improved interior Dri-Fit liner that is comfortable and easy to use.

Material: ‎Foam | Color: ‎Black | Item Weight: ‎0.2 Pounds | Item Dimensions LxWxH: ‎7 x 6 x 2 inches

Pros

  • Soft on the inside
  • Fit every knee type
  • Easy to wear and wash

Cons

  • May get scraped easily

Our Reviewer's Experience

"The extra knee padding is a real advantage for my children, providing solid protection even when they slide on the court. Also, the superior elastic hold stays in its place regardless of the activities. Overall, they're a decent option for bulk-free knee protection."


Why We Think It's Worth Buying

The 9,965 positive customer reviews on Amazon attest to the product’s quality.

5. Best Non-Slip: McDavid Store Knee Compression Sleeves

4.3
McDavid Store Knee Compression Sleeves Image: Mcdavid

The closed-cell foam of these sleeves efficiently protects your knees from high-impact sports and activities. These tried-and-trusted knee sleeves are designed with hDc Moisture Management Technology that quickly wicks away moisture to keep you dry and cool. The sleeves are made with 9mm hex technology for durability and long-lasting use. In addition, the extended length protects your legs from cuts and scrapes and provides extra comfort. If you want to find out more about this volleyball gear and its usage, make sure to check out this review on YouTube.

Material: Foam | Color: Black

Pros

  • Made with non-slip material
  • Designed for men and women
  • Breathable material
  • Decreases skin chafing and irritation
  • Machine-washable

Cons

  • May not fit everybody
  • Might be thin for some

Our Reviewer's Experience

"The durability of these pads over the years has surprised me the most. They've solid cushioning that always keeps me protected during matches. I'm pretty pleased with their performance so far."


Why We Think It's Worth Buying

More than 16,190 independent reviewers on Amazon have acknowledged the product's durability and functionality.

6. Best Anti-Odor:Mikasa832SRKneepads

4.5

The Mikasa kneepads are equipped with antimicrobial properties to combat sweat-induced odor and protect the skin from harmful bacteria and fungi. These kneepads are designed for comfort, featuring circular elastic knitting and flexible fabric that allows for unrestricted mobility. Additionally, the pads provide advanced protection for the patella, safeguarding the joints from sport-induced wear and tear to a large extent.

Pros

  • Contoured design
  • Good resilience
  • Moisture-wicking
  • Breathable
  • Absorb shock partially

Cons

  • May contain certain chemicals
  • Limited to hand wash

Our Reviewer's Experience

"The well-padded protective design of these pads is worth applauding. They stay in place and don't slide down, offering maximum comfort during practice. Their reliable knee protection during various sports makes them stand out."


7. Best Padded: Coolomg Padded Knee Short Sleeve

4.3
Coolomg Padded Knee Short Sleeve Image: Coolomg

The Coolomg kneepads are equipped with high-quality 3D EVA foam pads, providing ample protection against collisions and friction. Their unique design enhances breathability, keeping you dry and cool in the court and when on outdoor adventures. With maximum coverage, these tried-and-trusted volleyball knee support pads also provide calf support and relief from shin splints. Suitable for professional athletes, they also aid in faster muscle recovery and improve circulation. Additionally, the quality volleyball knee pads feature flat seams to minimize chafing and maximize comfort.

Material: Plastic | Color: White

Pros

  • Four-way stretchable
  • Anti-slip
  • Professional-grade volleyball knee pads
  • Available in five sizes

Cons

  • Fabric may not be durable
  • Some may find them bulky

Our Reviewer's Experience

"My kids use these knee pads for both basketball and skateboarding. The sleek design enhances their comfort and mobility without compromising on protection. Though they could use a bit more padding, but they have served well so far."


8. Best Versatile:Cannon Sports 61320 Pro Series Knee Pads

4.6
Cannon Sports 61320 Pro Series Knee Pads Image: Cannon Sports

The Cannon Sports kneepads are not limited to just volleyball but can also be worn during basketball, soccer, and wrestling matches. The volleyball knee protection pads feature a fitted top and bottom design to prevent slipping during high activity. For extra support, the kneecaps have thick rubber foam contoured paddings as anti-collision protection. Additionally, the open knee pit design enhances the breathability and mobility of the kneepads and helps prevent sweaty knees.

Material: ‎Polyester | Color: ‎Black | Item Weight: ‎0.44 Pounds

Pros

  • Moisture-wicking fabric
  • Molded padding
  • Provide good flexibility
  • Offer nine-inch-long coverage
  • Double as basketball knee pads

Cons

  • May be bulky
  • May not be chemical-free

Our Reviewer's Experience

"The best thing about these pads is the commendable padding, which alleviates discomfort on impact, making them appropriate for my intense game days. I love the all-around knee protection; it's definitely worth considering."


9. Best Protection: Lion Palace Store Soft Knee Pads

These tried-and-tested protective knee pads for volleyball are smooth, soft, and breathable because they are made of premium cotton fabric and bamboo fiber material. The elastic design of these breathable knee pads makes them comfortable to wear, and the volleyball knee sleeves are designed to keep you warm, provide muscle support, alleviate pain, and keep your knees safe from injuries.

Material: Cotton | Color: Pink

Pros

  • Anti-slip drop design
  • 360-degree angle protection
  • Breathable volleyball kneepads
  • Easy to wear and take off

Cons

  • May not dry quickly

Our Reviewer's Experience

"I find these knee pads quite comfortable under the clothes without being too bulky. They offer excellent protection during my workout and practice. In fact, they've saved me from soreness after a day on the slopes. Overall, it is a worthy choice for my day-to-day activities."


10. Best Impact Protection: Under Armour Volleyball Knee Pad

4.4
Under Armour Volleyball Knee Pad Image: Under Armour

These knee pads for sports are machine-washable and made of 100% polyester. They are well-knit to provide all-day comfort, making them suitable for your outdoor adventures too. The dual-density EVA foam offers added impact protection, and the hinged design allows for perfect fit and maximum mobility.

Material: Polyester Blend | Color: Black (001)/White | Item Weight: 1 Pounds.

Pros

  • Simple to wear
  • Fit adequately
  • Suitable for teens and adults
  • Durable volleyball kneepads
  • Excellent build quality

Cons

  • May not be available in large size

Our Reviewer's Experience

"These pads have been great for my son's volleyball sessions. They fit snugly and don't feel bulky at all. Plus, they hold up well even after frequent washing. All in all, they've been a staple to his sports kit."


protip_icon Quick fact
Polyester is usually used in sport-based clothing and equipment as it is light, wrinkle-free, and durable enough to maintain its shape even when a player twists or turns.

11. Best Cushioning:Wilson Standard Knee Pads

4.3

The Wilson kneepads provide exceptional comfort and relieve the impact on the knee, as they are designed with thick cushioned NBR foam padding. This pair of knee pads offers ample shock absorption and maximum patella protection, making it suitable for rough play and aggressive matches. These expert-approved volleyball safety gears are recommended for players aged 16 and above, and the soft and stretchable fabric of the kneepads does not disrupt mobility and promotes a full range of motion.

Material: ‎Foam | Color: ‎Pink | Item Dimensions LxWxH: ‎9 x 5.9 x 1.7 inches

Pros

  • Easily slides on
  • Quick-drying fabric
  • Doubles up as a compression sleeve
  • Superior cushioning
  • Washing machine-friendly

Cons

  • May be bigger than expected
  • Padding may be a bit hard for some

Our Reviewer's Experience

"They are slightly large, but these pads feel really comfy and snug. The padding protection is satisfactory, keeping my knees safe and secure from impacts. Plus, the vivid pink offers a fun pop of color on the court."


*The prices provided in this article are based on the latest available information. However, they may vary due to changes in pricing by the seller and/or promotional offers.

How To Choose The Right Volleyball Knee Pads?

Before buying the right volleyball knee pads, consider the following factors:

  1. Comfort level: Choose volleyball knee pads with outer parts made of neoprene, polyester, nylon, cotton, or superior elastic fabric. The inner components should typically be made of memory foam or gel.
  1. Size: Regardless of the quality of your knee pads, if they do not fit properly, they will be of little use. If the pad you choose is too loose, it will slide up or down. On the other hand, a knee pad that is too tight will cut off blood circulation. Therefore, go through the size chart to choose the right one.
  1. Padding: Your position when you play volleyball determines the amount of padding you need. If you are a forward, you don’t have to dive too much but must move quickly, so you can choose a knee pad with less padding. However, if you are a defender, you will dive often. Therefore, you should choose one with thicker padding.
  1. Manufacturing: Consider the overall design of the knee pad before purchasing. Find out how long you will wear the pads and also the intensity and frequency of impacts.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How can I prevent my knee pads from slipping?

To prevent your knee pads from slipping, you should choose appropriate-sized knee pads with non-slip material, elastic cuffs, or silicone lines.

2. Can I use regular knee pads instead of volleyball knee pads?

Regular knee pads are not padded enough to ensure the safety of players while playing volleyball. Playing volleyball requires lots of movement, and these volleyball knee pads ensure that the player’s hamstring, tibia, and quadriceps are protected from any external impact.

3. How should I clean volleyball knee pads?

Most volleyball knee pads are easily machine-washable, while some need to be hand-washed. If you’re hand washing, you can scrub out all the dirt and debris from the pads with a soap solution using a brush, or if it is too dirty, you can also soak it in the solution before scrubbing; then just rinse the pads with regular water and let them air-dry.

4. Why do some volleyball players wear their knee pads below their knees?

Some volleyball players wear their knee pads below their knee joints to protect their tibia from any external force while diving low for the ball.

5. Do professional volleyball players wear knee pads?

Yes, professional volleyball players wear knee pads because they are more prone to injury, and wearing volleyball knee pads ensures their safety to a great extent.

Why Trust MomJunction?

Sristi Suman is a sports and adventure enthusiast who is passionate about offering well-researched recommendations on the best gear to choose for such activities. Using her in-depth expertise on sports products, she has listed the best knee pads for volleyball players based on user reviews and product descriptions. She has also explained how to choose the right knee pads based on factors such as comfort level, padding, and size to give you a competitive edge on the court.

Playing sports results in a sound mind and body. However, it is important to stay safe and protect yourself from injuries while playing, especially during sports like volleyball that involve a lot of movement. A high-quality kneepad can cushion your knees from impact and protect the hamstring, quadriceps, and more. You should consider the parameters in the buying guide as they will give you an insight into how to choose one that will fit you well for optimal performance. As different players have different requirements, check the size, padding, and material for comfort and function.

Infographic: The Right Way To Wear A Knee Pad

A knee pad is essential to protect your knees from impact without hindering your performance. It minimizes injuries, supports your knees, and facilitates better mobility when worn correctly. Therefore, check out the infographic below to learn more about the factors to consider when wearing a knee pad.

How To Wear Knee Pads The Right Way

Illustration: Momjunction Design Team

Get the high-quality PDF version of this infographic.

Download Infographic in PDF version


References

MomJunction's articles are written after analyzing the research works of expert authors and institutions. Our references consist of resources established by authorities in their respective fields. You can learn more about the authenticity of the information we present in our editorial policy.
  1. Hans Eric Reitmayer; (2017); A review on volleyball injuries
    https://www.researchgate.net/publication/332192687

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