We are reader supported. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Also, as an Amazon affiliate, we earn from qualifying purchases.
Sliding to avoid a tag is one of the most basic but essential skills when it comes to playing the game of baseball. But while it is very important, it does take a toll on the knees.
That is why today we will review the best knee pads for baseball. Volleyball isn’t the only sport where players should be on the lookout for high-quality knee pads. Although they aren’t required in baseball, baseball players should also consider purchasing a pair to wear under their pants.
Take a look at some of the best knee pads — and one pair of shin guards for catchers — that we have found to be useful to active baseball players.
Quick Summary
I know knee pads aren’t often the first thing that comes to mind when thinking about baseball equipment. At the end of the day, they are not as essential as things like cleats, helmets, bats, etc., but they are helpful to anyone looking to add a little protection when sliding.
They can also kill two birds with one stone. While protecting the skin on the knee from scrapes and scratches, some knee pads can also provide a little more support for the knee joint. The following are some of the options that we will discuss in this review:
- Best Overall: Mizuno Adult Slider Knee Pad
- Most Comfortable: Easton Pro Style Sliding Knee Pad
- Most Breathable: HiRui Knee Pads
- Most Versatile: HiRui Knee Pads
- Best Catching Shin Guards: All-Star System 7-Axis Leg Guards
Anyone looking for a basic knee pad to offer protection for both the skin and the joint should go for the Mizuno Adult Slider Knee Pad.
Young players who play multiple sports may want to consider the HiRui Knee Pads as they can be used in other sports where knee protection is required.
But don’t count out the Easton Pro Style Sliding Knee Pad as an affordable option for a product to protect the skin on the knee.
Catchers looking for shin guards should look no further than the All-Star System 7-Axis Leg Guards.
Who Should Get This?
Any player who slides feet first quite often leaving scrapes on his knee should consider wearing knee pads.
When the skin on their knees obtains more and more scrapes, some young players can become hesitant to slide, which can be very dangerous. These knee pads that we suggest can ease their mind when it comes to sliding.
Also, young players often go through growing pains, and the knee joint is a common area to experience some discomfort. Young players may find some relief with these knee pads thanks to the compression it provides for the knee.
As players get older, they sometimes experience instability in the knee joint. The compression from these knee pads can also offer more stability giving the player more confidence to move and be explosive as is necessary for the game of baseball.
Overall, anyone who does not like the burning sensation of scrapes and scratches on the knee and anyone experiencing instability or discomfort in the knee joint should pay close attention to the following product reviews.
4 Best Knee Pads: Our Picks
1. Mizuno Adult Slider Kneepad
Mizuno, a trusted athletic brand, has developed a comfortable kneepad for anyone who needs a little more protection on the knees.
What we like:
- It is one size fits all in either youth or adult sizes. Product reviews show that customers of all sizes have had no issues fitting into these kneepads.
- They are thin enough to stay cool during hot summer days, but the padding around the knee cap is thick enough to protect the player from scrapes.
- The top and bottom feature tight-fitting elastic that keeps the pads from falling down the leg.
- Mizuno is most known for its volleyball gear, so the company is well-versed in kneepads.
What we don’t like:
- The price is low, but that is for only one kneepad. It does not come in a pair.
2. HiRui Knee Pads
These multi-sport kneepads made of polyamide and spandex can be great for baseball players.
What we like:
- The honeycomb pads are designed to conform to the shape and size of the player’s knee making for a more comfortable fit.
- They are light and breathable for hot days.
- The compression provides pain relief from overuse.
- They fit tight enough that they don’t slide down the knee but also allow for proper blood circulation in the knee.
- The padding around the knee is thick enough to protect the player’s knee from scrapes.
What we don’t like:
- It is not specifically designed for baseball, so the padding is thicker than most baseball players are used to seeing in knee pads.
3. Easton PRO Style Sliding Knee Pad
This knee pad from trusted baseball and softball brand Easton is made of neoprene, polyester, and nylon.
What we like:
- It is one size fits all which makes the product easy for online purchase.
- It is made specifically for sliding.
- It is not as bulky as some of the other brands.
- Product reviews state that it stays in place very well and does not slip past the knee.
What we don’t like:
- The material is not as breathable as some of the other brands.
- It is not built to offer a lot of support for the joint, mostly just sliding.
4. All-Star System 7-Axis Leg Guards
On topic with protecting the knees, any player who is a catcher must pay close attention to the shin guards that he purchases. When talking about anything related to catcher’s gear, it is hard to go wrong with All-Star.
What we like:
- These shin guards feature an LINQa,, pivoting hinge that allows for better mobility when wearing them.
- Product reviews rave about their comfort.
- They are some of the most durable shin guards on the market.
- The top strap goes around the thigh and does not drop down below the knee.
- They are lightweight.
What we don’t like:
- The price is a little higher, but catchers should be careful of spending much less on shin guards. After all, your safety is worth it.
Final Word
While knee pads are not the most essential piece of equipment for baseball, many players have found them to be helpful in protecting them from strawberries on the knees and even stabilizing their joints.
Whether you decide to use knee pads is complete up to you, but these three knee pads are our top choices for anyone looking for added protection.
See Also:
9 Top Sunglasses for Baseball
7 Top Baseball Cleats for Youths
7 Top Baseball Batting Tees: Our Quest
