5 Best Volleyball Knee Pads: Find the Perfect Fit

Ready to hit the volleyball court for some epic action?

Don’t forget about safety!

Protecting your knees is crucial whether you are a newbie or a seasoned player with expertise in digging.

A single injury or landing wrong can sideline you for weeks, severely damaging your game.

That’s where knee pads come in!

They’re your secret weapon for playing with confidence and dominating the court.

But with so many knee pads out there, how do you pick the right ones?

Don’t worry, I’m here to help!

I’ll explain what to look for and reveal my top five picks for the best volleyball knee pads.

Ready to protect those knees and play your best?

Let’s get started!

In-Depth Reviews of Volleyball Knee Pads

Knee pads might not be the flashiest piece of volleyball gear.

But trust me, they’re lifesavers!

Let me discuss some top volleyball knee pads options on the market.

I will cover their key features, pros, cons, and who they’re ideal for.

1) Best Overall: Mizuno LR6

The Mizuno LR6 is my absolute favorite volleyball knee pad, and I have plenty of reasons.

Sure, they only come in basic colors, but honestly, who cares when they protect your knees like this?

It has exceptional padding that makes even the hardest landings manageable.

Think of it this way: less knee pain, more energy for epic spikes.

Another thing I love?

These babies don’t quit.

No more yanking up knee pads that have rolled down mid-rally.

And forget about that gross, sweaty smell some pads get.

The LR6 stays fresh, even after those lengthy matches. 

That breathable mesh design is a lifesaver, keeping you cool during intense rallies.

The fit of the LR6 is spot-on.

It’s snug enough to stay put without restricting your movement.

And the padding is right where I need it for those diving plays.  

Less bulk means you stay agile, and it’s a must if you’re a quick-footed libero or setter.

In short, if you’re serious about volleyball and want comfy, no-fuss knee pads that work, the Mizuno LR6 is your jam.

Who needs flashy colors when your performance is already dazzling?

2) Best for Big Legs: Bodyprox Protective Knee Pads

The Bodyprox Protective Knee Pads are designed with generous leg room and stretchy fabrics.

So, whether you have big calves or prefer a looser fit, these won’t dig in.

It makes them an excellent choice for all players who want lots of coverage and protection from falls.

Do you know the secret to their shock-absorption magic?

These knee pads contain the thick EVA foam padding that nicely cushions those landings.

Plus, the grippy material keeps these pads in place during dives and jumps.

My favorite feature?

They have an easy pull-on design with an anti-slip grip, which helps them to stay put through even the most intense rallies.

3) Recommended for Youth: Nike Unisex Streak Knee Pad

The Nike Unisex Streak Volleyball Knee Pads give young athletes the confidence to go all out without worrying about bruised knees.

I recommend it for younger athletes because it is available in an extra small/small (XS/SM) size.

I know a lot of players who complain that they don’t get their snug-fitting knee pads.

So, to ensure the proper fit, measure the circumference of your thigh.

If your thigh circumference is between 14 and 15.5 inches, the XS/SM size will be perfect.

Now, enough with the sizing!

It’s time to discuss the features of these knee pads.

They have a targeted padding that absorbs shocks from dives and falls perfectly.

Plus, the adjustable straps make for a customized fit, which is vital for growing players!

I am a fan of their sleek, low-profile design, which doesn’t add extra weight and doesn’t slow down a player.

As a bonus, that iconic Nike swoosh adds a little extra motivation when you’re out there learning to play like the pros.

4) Best for Men: Adidas Elite Knee Pad

Adidas offers various knee pad styles, and this Elite model specifically features a longer 7-inch sleeve.

That extra-long sleeve means you get more coverage up and down your leg.

It surely gives you the confidence to approach every dig and every block with complete focus.

They bend with you when you move, so you’re never stuck feeling stiff.

And that thick padding?

It’s like a comfy cushion for your knees, no matter how hard you hit the floor.

Their focus on cushioning offers security when going all-out, though washing them often might be necessary.

Although the Adidas Elite Knee Pad is technically unisex, its longer sleeves and less vibrant color options make it more geared toward male players who prioritize function over a flashy look.

5) Recommended for Women: ASICS Ace Low Profile Knee Pad

Forget bulky pads, ladies!

The ASICS Ace Low Profile Knee Pads’ slim design and shorter sleeves make them great for players who prefer a more low-key feel.

They have a sleek 6-inch sleeve and provide essential support without unnecessary bulk.

 Plus, a little touch of style never hurts, right? 

These knee pads come in 2 gorgeous colors, so you can find a pair that complements your volleyball attire.

And the best part?

They’re so easy to wear and take off, thanks to their flexible design and slip-on style.

No more wrestling with bulky pads that take forever to get on and off.

What to Look for in Volleyball Knee Pads?

Getting ready to crush some competition on the volleyball court?

Awesome!

I assume you have finally decided to buy volleyball knee pads, considering them a super important piece of gear.

You might be browsing the selection at a sporting goods store or checking out online reviews from a trusted brand. 

No matter where you find your first pair (or your tenth!), you must consider a few key factors.

It will ensure you have knee pads that keep you protected and comfortable on the court.

Here’s what you need to keep in mind to find that perfect fit:

1) Protection Level & Playing Style

If you are a Middle Blocker or a hitter, you know those powerful spikes and quick dives can lead to some hard falls.

So, to protect yourself from severe injuries, look for the knee pads with thicker padding.

That extra layer of protection, like the enhanced padding, can protect you against impacts and absorb shock.

Conversely, knee pads with lighter padding will be more suitable if you are a back-row player who focuses on digging, setting, and constant movements.

They will keep you flexible on the court and allow you the full range of motion.

2) Fit & Comfort

Most brands provide sizing charts.

Measure your leg circumference above and below your knee for the right fit.

If the knee pads are too tight, they will restrict blood flow.

Conversely, there is a chance of slipping around in case of a loose fit.

Secondly, prioritize knee pads with breathable mesh fabrics, which will help you stay cool during long matches.

Some people are sensitive to neoprene, so look for hypoallergenic options if that’s a concern.

Thirdly, decide if you want the sleeve-style pads or wrap-around ones.

Personally, I prefer the sleeve-style knee pads as they are easier to slip on.

But, if you prefer more customized adjustments, go for a wrap-around style.

3) Profile & Aesthetics

You might picture the classic, heavily padded style when you think of volleyball knee pads.

And while those definitely have their place, there’s another popular option: low-profile knee pads. 

These pads have a slimmer, less bulky design.

They’re ideal for players who need to stay agile, like the back-row Defensive Specialists.

The protection feature in knee pads is always the priority, but that doesn’t mean you can’t have a little fun!

Many brands offer a variety of colors for their knee pads.

Matching your team colors is a great way to boost team spirit on the court!

Also, some brands let you get creative with graphics or patterns on your knee pads.

4) Durability

Think of your knee pads as an investment in your volleyball future.

 An average pair might protect you for a game or two, but what happens when they fall apart mid-season? 

Choosing durable knee pads means you can worry less about them failing you and focus on playing your best. 

Always look for tough outer fabrics that can withstand scrapes against the court.

Some brands specifically design their knee pads for volleyball’s unique demands.

These pads often incorporate extra features that make them even tougher.

Also, reinforced stitching, especially around the kneecap, is a must.

This ensures your pads can handle those explosive movements.

Can you Play Volleyball without Knee Pads?

Yes, you can play volleyball without knee pads.

But the real question is, do you want to risk taking a hard fall on those bare knees?

Knee pads are not just a comfort thing.

They act as a savior to protect you from the painful bruises a bad landing can cause.

Plus, their extra support gives you the confidence to go for those challenging plays.

In short, the knee pads are optional, but they are a smart move if you want to stay injury-free and give your best on the court.