6 Best Paintball Knee Pad Pairs for Superior Protection and Comfort

By
Daniel
Daniel
Writer
Daniel is among our most talented writers: based on the dull expert reports he's able to make up a comprehensive, reader-friendly article which anyone can benefit from. Also read more
reviewed
Reviewed By
Tom
Tom
Tom
Expert Consultant
Initially being an engineering specialist, Tom has never stopped learning and acquiring other knowledge and skills. Now he’s involved in technical support for a well-known read more
Last updated: August 15, 2023
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If you are a dedicated player, then you know the importance of having the best paintball knee pads. These pads are an essential part of any paintballer’s equipment, as they help to provide safety and comfort so that you can concentrate on the match at hand.

For our review, we examined 13 different models and took several important factors into account. First, we looked at the different sizes that each model came in since that will determine whether or not they would work for you. Next, we checked out the overall construction of each pad and the materials used. That way, we could better determine the type of terrain they would be good for. Of all the different models that we examined, we found that the Dye Precision Performance Paintball Knee Pads was the best model overall.

Quick Summary

  • "Featuring a pre-shaped design, elastic material, and thick padding, these pads will keep you safe without compromising on comfort"
  • "A stylish model with dual-layer impact foam and open back for proper venting"
  • Most Supportive Knee Pads: Virtue Paintball Men's TB Damage Knee Pad
    "With its dual-layer gel foam and reinforced front design, these pads are sure to keep your knees safe and sound"
  • "The pads boast of a cellular formed EVA knee design which allows for the proper protection while being thin enough to wear under your pants"
  • Most Durable Knee Pads: Alta Tactical Superflex Knee Pads
    "Despite the secure plastic kneecap, these pads are super flexible allowing for an intense gaming experience"
  • Best Protective Knee Pads: HK Army Crash Knee Pads
    "This option doesn’t only look like a professional army-grade item, it actually gives you the protection you’re looking for"

Top 6 Paintball Knee Pad Pairs Review 2024

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Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 7892 people in the past 30 days
9.8
Customer Feedback
Customer Feedback
9.7
Brand Reputation
Based onweb analytics
9.7
Features & Benefits
Product Review
9.7
9.8
Features
  • Construction: airepene body and integrated cup-shaped EVA foam pad
  • Sizes available: S, M, L, XL, XXL
  • Length: 11.75-12.75 inches

More features: pre-shaped design; adjustable straps

If you are in the market for the best overall knee pads for use in a paintball game, then these are going to be your best bet. What really helps to help set these pads apart from their competitors is their pre-shaped design. This design helps the pads to contour to your legs and stay in place. That way, you don’t need to worry about them moving around on you while you are running, sliding, or crawling during your match.

Something else that helps these pads stay in place is their adjustable strap. Unlike many other Velcro straps out there, the straps on these pads are nice and thick. This thickness helps to keep the pads in place very well, and also makes them much more durable. Even if you use them a lot, they should stand up to the punishment with ease.

Another key feature that makes these pads the best of the best is how breathable they are. The materials that are used in the construction of these pads are designed to let plenty of air through them. This will help to keep you nice and cool while you are playing, which is important to keep you on the top of your game.

The only real issue that you need to keep in mind before you buy these knee pads is that they are smaller than advertised. As such, it would be a good idea to buy a size up from what you normally would wear. That way, you won’t have to deal with the pads digging into your legs while you run around. Thankfully, this par of knee pads comes in lots of sizes, so finding the right one for your knees shouldn’t be too difficult.

    Why did it make our list?
  • Breathable
  • Flexible
  • Pre-shaped design
  • Adjustable straps
  • Lots of sizes available
    What is not ideal about it?
  • Smaller than advertised
?
Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 8455 people in the past 30 days
9.4
Customer Feedback
Customer Feedback
9.2
Brand Reputation
Based onweb analytics
9.3
Features & Benefits
Product Review
9.3
9.4
Features
  • Construction: dual layer impact foam
  • Sizes available: S, M, L, XL, XXL
  • Length: 11 inches

More features: adjustable tension strap; open back for venting

Sometimes, when it comes to finding the right product, you might need to spend a bit more money. These knee pads certainly make a case to prove this theory, as they are outstanding, if slightly more expensive, option. For starters, these pads are extremely protective. They feature a very thick foam design that is covered by a harder exterior. This dual-layer is meant to keep you from suffering any bumps and bruises while you play, which is, obviously, ideal.

Something else that helps to make this such a tempting purchase is the built-in vents. These vents, which are at the back of the pad, allow for a lot of airflow. This added ventilation will, as you might have expected, help to keep you a lot cooler while you are playing during warmer weather.

These pads are also available in lots of sizes. If you do decide to go with this model, you shouldn’t have any issue at all finding the right size for your needs. These pads also feature an extra-wide, and thus, extra durable, adjustable strap. Since these straps are so wide, you shouldn’t have to worry about them breaking down on you. They also will give you the ability to find the right fit to match your preference.

The only real issue with these otherwise wonderful knee pads is that, due to their vented design, they have limited mobility. The thick padding can make it feel awkward to move quickly since the opening is resting right along the crease at the back of your leg.

    Why did it make our list?
  • Open back for venting
  • Adjustable straps
  • Lots of sizes available
  • Thick foam
    What is not ideal about it?
  • Limited mobility
?
Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 8799 people in the past 30 days
9.4
Customer Feedback
Customer Feedback
8.9
Brand Reputation
Based onweb analytics
8.9
Features & Benefits
Product Review
8.9
9.4
3
Most Supportive Knee Pads

Virtue Paintball Men's TB Damage Knee Pad

Features
  • Construction: moisture-wicking fabric; dual-layer gel foam
  • Sizes available: S/M; L/XL; XXL
  • Length: 11-13 inches

More features: hand wash; soft elastic leg strap

Of all the different knee pads that we looked into, these are the most supportive. The reason for this is two-fold. The rifts thing that helps to make these such a supportive option is that they are nice and tight. This tight design helps to keep these pads in place while you are playing as well as providing extra support. Something else that makes these so supportive is that they are molded in a curve which allows them to fit onto your leg that much easier.

Of course, the drawback to this extra-tight design is, as you can imagine, these pads are a bit smaller than advertised. If you normally wear one size, it is probably going to be in your best interest to get the next size up so that the pads will stay in place and fit correctly.

Of course, if the pads don’t fit quite right, you do have the option to adjust the easy-to-use leg strap. The adjusting system is convenient and secure, which will allow you to find the perfect fit each and every time you decide to put them on.

Another nice feature for these pads is the material that is used in their construction. While many pads are made with durable materials that might make you too warm, these pads feature breathable fabric that is also moisture-wicking. They are designed to pull moisture off of your body, which is a great idea if you are going to be playing in warmer weather.

    Why is it special?
  • Moisture-wicking fabric
  • Adjustable leg strap
  • Lots of sizes available
  • Thick padding
    What are the flaws?
  • Smaller than advertised
?
Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 9792 people in the past 30 days
9.2
Customer Feedback
Customer Feedback
8.9
Brand Reputation
Based onweb analytics
8.9
Features & Benefits
Product Review
9.1
9.2
Features
  • Construction: neoprene; high density foam padding
  • Sizes available: S, M, L, XL, XXL
  • Length: not specified

More features: cellular formed EVA knee design

If you are someone that is just getting started in paintballing, then you are probably looking to save some money for other gear and are looking for a cheaper option when it comes to kneepads. Of course, you still want to make sure that you get a great product. In that case, this is a great choice. These pre-formed pads are ideal for anyone looking for a good mix of comfort, value, and protection. While their padding is not all that thick, it should still stand up to most terrain without too many problems.

Something that helps to make these pads such a good value is just how thin and flexible they are. Even if you are looking for a knee pad to wear over your pants, these wouldn’t be a bad option. Their thinner than average padding will provide you with more maneuverability when compared to other options out there.

Another reason that these knee pads are considered such a great value is that their foam can be removed and replaced should the need arise. Of course, this will add a bit to the original purchase price, but it will also extend the lifetime of these pads exponentially. Even if you wear them especially hard, you can just pop out the old foam and put in the new padding without too much trouble.

    Why did it make our list?
  • Pre-formed design
  • Slim padding for added maneuverability
  • Replaceable foam
  • Lots of sizes available
    What is not ideal about it?
  • Thin padding
?
Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 3587 people in the past 30 days
9.0
Customer Feedback
Customer Feedback
8.6
Brand Reputation
Based onweb analytics
8.8
Features & Benefits
Product Review
8.6
9.0
5
Most Durable Knee Pads

Alta Tactical Superflex Knee Pads

Features
  • Construction: Nylon cover, finished brushed tricot liner, neoprene padding; flexible kneecap
  • Sizes available: one size
  • Length: not specified

More features: AltaLOK™ Easy On/Off fastening system

When you get right down to it, playing paintball can be a tough business. You are constantly on the move, ducking and dodging behind obstacles, all while trying your very best not to get be hit. The last thing that you want to have to worry about is whether or not your knee pads are durable enough during a match. These pads are much bulkier and sturdier than others available today, making them great for anyone that plays paintball as hard as possible in tough terrain.

For starters, these pads have a hard exterior, which is quite different from any other knee pad we looked into. This hard-shell covering will help to keep you from feeling any rocks, sticks, or stones while you are playing, which is extremely helpful in rough terrain. They also have a nylon cover that provides another layer of protection and durability.

Another big difference for these pads is that you don’t need to slip them up your leg to get them on. Instead, they feature a unique system that allows you to quickly and easily click them on and off. This is a big timesaver while you are getting ready to play.

The only thing that you will need to watch out for with these pads is that the straps to tighten or loosen the pads are very hard to adjust. While this does make them much more secure once you have them in the right spot, it also makes them very difficult to get just right.

    Why are we impressed?
  • Durable
  • Flexible kneecap
  • AltaLOK™ Easy On/Off fastening system
  • Nylon cover for added durability
    What negatives must you be aware of?
  • Difficult to adjust straps
?
Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 3318 people in the past 30 days
8.8
Customer Feedback
Customer Feedback
8.5
Brand Reputation
Based onweb analytics
8.5
Features & Benefits
Product Review
8.5
8.8
6
Best Protective Knee Pads

HK Army Crash Knee Pads

Features
  • Construction: neoprene; dual-layered padding
  • Sizes available: S, M, L, XL
  • Length: 11.75-12.75 inches

More features: 4-way stretch sleeve

If you are someone that really gets into their paintball matches and is constantly on the move, then these might be the best knee pads for you. This is especially the case if you are constantly kneeling, sliding, or lying down when you are in a match. These particular knee pads are extra-thick, thanks to their dual layers of padding. This doubly thick padding helps to make them very protective even in tougher terrain. No matter what you are running into, you most likely won’t feel a thing with these pads on.

Aside from the thick padding, another way that these pads are made just for an active player is how well they stay in place. They feature a 4-way stretch sleeve design that is made to keep the pads snug against your leg. This helps to prevent them from moving around too much on you while you are on the go, which, in turn, helps to keep your legs from suffering any damage during the match.

Something else that makes these such a high-quality purchase is just how easy they are to clean. Thanks to their neoprene construction, these pads are made to clean very quickly. Even if you drag them through the mud, you shouldn’t have any issue cleaning them up for the next game.

The only thing that you might have an issue with down the road is the strap, which is a bit too thin for rough use. While the pads should stay in place even if the strap becomes compromised, it is certainly something to keep in mind if you are someone that plays paintball all of the time.

    What makes it special?
  • Thick padding
  • 4-way stretch sleeve
  • Lots of sizes available
  • Dual-layered
  • Easy to clean
    What cons did we find?
  • Weak strap

Things to Consider

In this section, we will go through everything that you need to know in order to find the right paintball kneepads for your needs. We have also taken the time to answer several frequently asked questions, so be sure to check those out as well if you need any further information.

Features to consider when choosing paintball knee pads

6 Best Paintball Knee Pad Pairs for Superior Protection and Comfort

While kneepads for playing paintball might be relatively straightforward, there are still several factors to keep in mind before you make your final decision.

Construction and materials used

The first thing that you need to look into when you are searching for new knee pads for playing paintball is how they are made and what material they are made out of. You also have to take into account your own playing style and the terrain that you are going to have your matches in. If you are going to be playing in the heat, then you should look for a softer pad that is made for breathability as the Dye Precision Performance Paintball Knee Pads.

On the other hand, if you are going to be playing in tougher terrain, then you should look for something with a harder exterior that is built for durability. In this case, the Alta Tactical Superflex Knee Pads would be a great option.

Knee padding

Once you have decided they kind of material you want your knee pad to be made with, you can then focus on just how much padding you need. If you are looking for a minimal amount of support, then you can save yourself a bit of money and get something like the Planet Eclipse Paintball Knee Pads. Since these pads aren’t all that bulky, they make it easy to move around quickly and easily.

Of course, if you are looking to make sure that you won’t ever feel anything through your pads, then you should go for something a bit thicker. If that is the case, then the HK Army Crash Knee Pads are probably going to be your best option. They have two layers of impact foam to give your knees plenty of protection.

Velcro closures

Since paintball is such a physical past time, you need to make sure that you take the tie to find a pair of knee pads that won’t move around on you. Velcro closures are a great way to achieve this.

These adjustable straps will also make it a lot easier to achieve the right fit for the size of your leg without having to worry about your straps being too tight. That way, you will be able to move around as though you aren’t wearing thing at all.

 

Which sizes are available

One of the coolest things about paintballing is that pretty much anyone can do it. It doesn’t matter if you are short or tall, thin or thick, if you want to play, you can join in. This can also be shown in most of the equipment made for paintballing. For instance, most knee pads come in a wide range of sizes, which include small, medium, large, and in some instances, extra-large or double extra-large.

The Dye Precision Performance Paintball Knee Pads are a great example of a high-quality knee pad that comes in a wide variety of sizes. In fact, these pads can easily be purchased in pretty much any size you need.

Design

While you might not think that the overall design of a knee pads would vary all that much from model to model, that is not always the case. There are several key design features that you might want to keep in mind before you make your final decision. For starters, it might be a good idea to look for knee pads, like the Carbon CC Paintball Knee Pads, that have a vent in the back. This vent helps to keep you cool and make it easier to wear the pads over your clothes.

Another design feature to look for is pads that have a formed design, like the Planet Eclipse Paintball Knee Pads. This curved design will make the pads more comfortable and will also help to keep them in place on your knee as you play.

Length

The length that you need for your new knee pads is really up to your personal preference. Shorter knee pads, like the Carbon CC Paintball Knee Pads, aren’t quite as obtrusive as larger models, but they also don’t stay in play quite as well. The extra length in longer knee pads, like the Virtue Paintball Men’s TB Damage Knee Pad, helps to keep the pads in place.

Obviously, the longer your legs, the larger your knee pads should be so that you have your desired level of comfort.

 

Washing instructions

6 Best Paintball Knee Pad Pairs for Superior Protection and Comfort

While knee pads are an important part of paintballing, they can quickly get really messy, either from dirt or sweat. These pads will begin to develop an odor as well if you don’t take the time to wash them properly. Thankfully, cleaning your new knee pads is not all that hard. If you follow these simple steps, you will always be able to keep your pads as clean as possible.

  1. To wash your pads in a washing machine, first, place your knee pads in a mesh bag. This will help to protect them in the washing machine.
  2. Next, be sure to wash your knee pads along with other items, such as sheets or towels. These will also help to insulate your pads from damage to the washing machine.
  3. Select the gentle cycle. This cycle doesn’t spin as quickly as others, which will, again, help to keep your knee pads safe from damage.
  4. Only use milk laundry detergent. Stronger detergents will break down the fibers in the knee pads, which will cause them to break down too quickly.
  5. Once the cycle is complete, hang the knee pads up to dry. You shouldn’t use a dryer, as this could cause them to become misshapen.

FAQ

How do I choose which size to get?

The size of your new pads is, as we mentioned before, mostly based on your own personal preference. You do, however, also have to take into account the size of your legs. The best way to do this is to measure around both above and below your knee. From there, you can then select either a size that will be tighter or looser based on how you like them to feel.

Which pads fit under pants?

If you want to wear your knee pads under your pants, then you should look for a slimmer model. In this instance, the Planet Eclipse Paintball Knee Pads are going to be your best bet, since they have a much slimmer profile.

Which model is ideal for playing in a rocky area?

If you are going to be conducting a paintball match in rougher terrain, then the Alta Tactical Superflex Knee Pads are a good choice. They are a bit more durable thanks to their rough exterior and tough design.

Our verdict

Of all the different knee pads we looked at for this list, the Dye Precision Performance Paintball Knee Pads are the best overall. These pads are comfortable, breathable, and thick, while still allowing you a high level of maneuverability. Plain and simple, if you are looking for great knee pads for paintball, then you need to check these pads out.

The Carbon CC Paintball Knee Pads are some of the best paintball knee pads available today. These pads are nice and thick but will allow you to keep nice and cool thanks to their built-in air vents.

The Virtue Paintball Men’s TB Damage Knee Pad offers the most support with its dual-layer gel foam and reinforced front design, these pads are sure to keep your knees safe and sound.

9,8
Total Score
Dye Precision Performance Paintball Knee Pads - Editor’s Choice
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