Best Paintball Knee Pads of 2023 – Top 10 Picks
After trying multiple options available in the market, I’ve reviewed the ten best paintball knee pads that you can buy today.
One of the most common paintball injuries is knee injuries. When you land, bend or dive, your knees have a tough encounter with the ground. Therefore you need knee pads that can resist direct impact. However, you can’t pick up paintball knee pads randomly. You need to choose the one that fits you best, offers solid protection, ensures breathability, and grants full range motion to your bones and muscles.
Finding an option that features all these things can be tricky, but I’ve made it easy for you. After trying multiple options available in the market, I’ve reviewed the ten best options that you can buy today. I have added multiple options over a broad price spectrum so that you can choose the one that goes with your budget as well.
In our quest to provide you with the most reliable recommendations, our team of experts, including Dr. Olivia Mitchell and Mr. William Foster, committed substantial hours to thoroughly testing various paintball knee pads. The result is our carefully curated list of the top 10 picks for 2023. Rest assured, our authentic article is a testament to their authority and dedication, ensuring you make an informed choice for the best paintball knee pads to enhance your game.
10 Best Paintball Knee Pads
| Award | Design | Paintball Knee Pads | Retailer |
|---|---|---|---|
| Best Paintball Knee Pads |  | Dye Precision Performance Paintball Knee Pads | Check Price |
| Budget Paintball Knee Pads |  | Carbon CC Knee Pad | Check Price |
| Top Paintball Knee Pads |  | Damage Tampa Bay Knee Pads | Check Price |
| Beginner Paintball Knee Pads |  | HK Army Crash Knee Pads | Check Price |
| Top pick |  | Bunkerkings Fly Compression Knee Pads | Check Price |
| Editor choice |  | Exalt Paintball FreeFlex Knee Pads | Check Price |
| Best Paintball Knee Pads 2023 |  | HK Army Paintball CTX Knee Pads | Check Price |
| Best OPILY Tactical Knee Pads |  | OPILY Tactical Knee Pads | Check Price |
| Best EMERSONGEAR Tactical Knee Pads |  | EMERSONGEAR Tactical Knee Pads | Check Price |
| Best VIRTUE Breakout Lightweight Knee Pads for Paintball |  | VIRTUE Breakout Lightweight Knee Pads for Paintball | Check Price |
Dye Precision Performance Paintball Knee Pads
Specifications:
- Color: Black
- Closure Type: Pull-on
- Material: Foam, Ethylene Vinyl Acetate
- Sizes: Small to XX-Large
- Armor-level protection
- Adjustable secure straps
- Pre-shaped cup for form-fitting
- Not true to size
Dye precision performance knee pads have made their way to the top of the list for many good reasons. I’ve been using Dye paintball accessories for many years, but it was the first DYE knee pad I used. I was looking for knee pads that fit easily with my jeans. This pad uses a pre-shaped EVA-foam cup that perfectly conforms to the body making it the most comfortable knee pad for paintball.
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I wear 30/30 jeans and don’t have skinny legs. After reading multiple reviews I had an idea that these pads offer tight fitting. I got them in XXL size. The pads were delivered on time. It was a little hard to put on the brand-new pads. However, after 15 minutes, they started losing. The pads are impressively stretchable and start feeling fully comfortable by the end of the day.
The build quality is exceptional, it isn’t bad either. The protection level is solid. These knee pads use high-impact open-cell foam that can resist direct impact making them perfect for more challenging games. They have actually saved my keens from injury in some tough encounters. Also, the EVA foam padding conforms perfectly to your body and helps you get a custom fit.
The knee pads come with adjustable straps for a secure and custom fit. The straps are built really well and offer a very secure fit. The quality and protection are good for the price and the only thing that I can complain about is the size. These are not made true to size. You need to choose the size carefully to get a perfect fit.
Dye Precision performance knee pads are designed for tough and big games and offer solid protection in the tough impacts on all types of surfaces. Custom-fit design, ultra-comfortable, padding, and solid protection help them stand among the best paintball knee pads.
Carbon CC Knee Pad
Specifications:
- Color: Black
- Closure Type: Adjustable Tension Strap
- Material: Foam
- Sizes: Small to XX-Large
- Highly impact resistance
- Comfortable and breathable
- Offer a full range of motion
- Limited life span
If you are not happy with the complex sizing of Dye precision performance knee pads, check out the Carbon CC knee pads. These knee pads are available in 5 sizes from Small to XX-large and offer a very solid fit according to the size. Like all other Carbon paintball accessories, these knee pads are the perfect blend of quality and performance. But the best part is that they come at a very fair price point.
I got these knee pads back in 2020 when I started paintballing. For starters, these are the best knee pads as they feel like nothing on the knees and offer very solid protection against direct impacts. What I love about these knee pads is the low profile minimal design. Pads are lightweight and feel super comfortable. They fit under jeans and leggings and they don’t compress your legs.
Moreover, you will get dual-layer protection. Highly impact-resistant padding makes them ideal for tough games. Another thing that I really liked is that these knee pads do not restrict the natural movements of bones and muscles. The natural knee donut design coupled with a low profile brace allows you to stretch your knees comfortably without limiting the protection and comfort.
The back of the pads is vented. It improves breathability, keeping you fresh and energetic on the field. If you play paintball in summer this is the best option you can have. My biggest knock on the pads is that they have a limited lifespan. If you play 2 to 3 times a week, you cannot expect them to last for a whole season. The knee pads stretch out after a few games and don’t stay on your knees.
Carbon CC paintball pads are ideal for summers as they are lightweight and vented at the back giving you exceptional comfort and protection. The knee pads are made true to size, offer solid protection, and come at a competitive price making them the best knee pads on the market.
Damage Tampa Bay Knee Pads
Specifications:
- Color: Black
- Closure Type: Adjustable Tension Strap
- Material: Foam
- Sizes: Small to XX-Large
- Highly breathable-moisture wicking
- Gel padding for impact resistance
- Highly affordable
- Comes in only one size
Next on the list of best paintball knee pads is the Damage Tampa Bay knee pads. If you are on a budget and looking for affordable knee pads for casual paintball games with your friends, this is the best option you can have. These knee pads come in a very comfortable pull-on closures design and offer solid protection without limited comfort and breathability.
Damage Tampa knee pads are made with ultra-stretchable fabrics. For protection, these pads use gel foam padding inside. The padding makes them highly impact without adding to my weight and volume. The knee pads fit easily under jeans and comfortably wrap around your knees.
The knee pads feature a solid forearm design that conforms to the knee and helps you bend your knees at full potential. Also, these are my favorite knee pads for summer paintballing. These knee pads use a super breathable and moisture-wicking fabric at the back. It handles sweat really well and prevents skin irritation. Also, it prevents the pads from slipping over the knees.
The neoprene construction is good and offers decent performance for the price. My only gripe with these knee pads is that they don’t come in different sizes. It is available in one-size-fits-all. Also, the pull-on closures make it a little less secure. If it doesn’t fit you perfectly, it won’t stay in place.
If you are looking for an affordable set of knee pads for casual games or practicing paintball, Damage Tama paintball knee pads are a good option. Incredible price performance ratio, ability to handle sweat, and solid impact resistance help them stand among the best knee pads.
HK Army Crash Knee Pads
Specifications:
- Color: Black
- Closure Type: Hook and Loop
- Material: Synthetic Rubber
- Sizes: Small to X-Large
- Stuffed with high-density padding
- Contoured form-fitting design
- Adjustable and secure straps
- Limited breathability
HK Army crash knee pads are designed for professional games and help you get optimal protection even in the most challenging conditions. These knee pads are slightly expensive but if you want to make an investment that pays you back in the long run, this is a definite way to go. I’ve been using the knee pads for the last three seasons and so far I’ve nothing to complain about the quality and performance.
These knee pads come in 4 different sizes from small to extra large. Since I’ve muscular legs I got them in an extra large size. The pads are made true to size and I could get a perfect fit right out of the box. The kneepads are lightweight and offer a very comfortable fit. The pads are stuffed with high-impact contoured padding. Its form-fitting design hugs the legs and knees in a perfect way.
The high-density foam padding can resist direct impacts. It gives me the confidence to dive and crawl. The neoprene upper legs support keeping the knee pads in place even when you land at awkward angles. Also, these knee pads are super breathable. The 4-way stretch sleeve grants the full range of motion. It improves mobility and ensures that you get the best performance without limiting the protection level.
The hook and loop closure is fully adjustable. I loved the custom fit offered by the knee pads. Though it has thick padding, I can wear it with jeans and leggings. These knee pads have limited breathability. I love wearing them in winter, but in summer, they have limited breathability for me.
If you are looking for the best paintball knee pads that can help you avoid injuries in the toughest games, HK Army knee pads are the best option. The knee pads are loved by many pros as they offer optimum protection levels in all types of environments making them the best knee pads for paintball.
Bunkerkings Fly Compression Knee Pads
Specifications:
- Color: Black
- Closure Type: Pull On
- Material: Spandex
- Sizes: Small to 2X-Large
- Moisture-wicking lycra fabric
- 4-way stretch construction
- Variable Air Hex pad tech
- Slightly overpriced
Bunkerkings Fly compression knee pads are next on the list. These are the most stretchable and forgiving knee pads I’ve ever used. These knee pads are available in five sizes from small to 2x large. I got these knee pads in an extra-large size and they offer a perfect fit.
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Pads are made true to size and you need to get the one that is your perfect size. These knee pads come with pull-on closure so I was a little concerned about the secure fit. The knee pads are made with highly dependable neoprene support that offers a secure fit around your knees and the upper part of your legs.
If you get them to size, they won’t move from the place. The 4-way stretch construction makes them super comfortable. The pads move with your muscles and bones when you crawl, and or stretch. The knee pads come in Variable Air Hex padding technology.
The padding uses variable thickness padding depending upon the requirement of the impact zone. In this way, they have reduced the bulk for improved comfort and breathability. The padding profile is thick but it does not limit the breathability. The knee pad isn’t vented but it has a very good moisture-wicking system.
It uses lycra fabric inside that wicks the moisture and keeps your skin dry and fresh. Since there are no straps and hooks, you can comfortably wear them with pants, jeans, and leggings. These knee pads are slightly overpriced and that is the only thing that I can complain about.
Bunkerkings Fly compression knee pads are among the most comfortable and handy knee pads I’ve ever used. The knee pads are made true to size, offer an ultra-secure fit, and ensure comfort and protection in all conditions making them the best paintball knee pads.
Exalt Paintball FreeFlex Knee Pads
Specifications:
- Color: Black
- Closure Type: Hook And Loop
- Material: Memory Foam
- Sizes: Small to X-Large
- Pros Here
- Cons Here
Exalt Free flex paintball knee pads are designed for all-weather paintball and offer ultimate protection in all conditions. The knee pads come in 4 sizes from small to extra large. The pads are true to size and offer a very comfortable fit right out of the box. These pads combine a very minimal profile that can be worn with jeans and leggings.
The pads are very secure as they come with pass-through retention straps. Unlike hooks and loops these straps pass through the padding and do not create extra black and ensure freedom of movement. The straps keep the pads in space and prevent them from sliding and twisting when you move in the course. The protection level offered by the knee pads is very impressive.
The pads have been stuffed with dense, molded padding. I’ve been using these knee pads for six months and they have saved my joints in many tough encounters while diving on the tough ground. Also, these knee pads have a very comfortable form-fitting design. The integrated memory foam cup contours around the knee and offers a very hugging fit.
The velcro strap used for adjustment is removable. You can keep them behind padding so that they won’t rub against your skin. My biggest knock on the knee pads is that they have limited mobility. These pads are not very stretchable and slightly compress against your muscles when you kneel or slide.
Exalt Freeflex paintball knee pads are very well made and offer solid protection in rough paintball encounters. These knee pads come in 4 sizes and offer a comfortable fit right out of the box. If you are not on a budget, this is a definite way to go.
HK Army Paintball CTX Knee Pads
Specifications:
- Color: Black, White, Blue
- Closure Type: Zipper Velcro
- Material: Synthetic Rubber
- Sizes: X-Small to 2X-Large
- 4-way stretch mobility
- Best all-season performance
- Made to last
- Expensive
HK Army CTX paintball knee pads are designed for professional Paintball players as they ensure 100% protection against knee injuries. These knee pads are my all-time favorite for the fields as they are made with the needs of serious paintball players in mind. The design ensures enhanced comfort and protection.
The countered profile stuffed with high-density padding gives me the confidence to kneel, stretch, jump, and land the way I wasn’t. This is a 4-way stretch sleeve that has incredible breathability. The knee pads conform to the natural anatomical structure and support the natural movement.
Another thing that I really love about these knee pads is that they offer a very secure fitting. They come with a zipper closure that is further secured by a velcro closure. Also, you can remove these upper and lower Velcro straps if you want to reduce the bike. The high-density padding offers class-leading impact resistance. The padding is very streamlined and doesn’t twist or slide when you move.
These knee pads are not vented but offer excellent breathability. The inner fabric can absorb moisture. It keeps the skin dry and hydrated even in the summer. The knee pads are equally useful in summers and winters. It’s been quite a while since I’ve used these pads and so far they are working really well. The build quality is really good and you can expect them to last for many seasons.
If you play paintball in a professional environment, these pads are the best option you can have. The pads are slightly expensive but combine class-leading quality, performance, and comfort making them the best paintball knee pads.
OPILY Tactical Knee Pads
Specifications:
- Color: Black
- Closure Type: Hook and Loop
- Material: Nylon Foam
- Sizes: One Size
- Highly affordable
- Tough protective shells
- Fully adjustable design
- Heavy and bulky
Next on the list is OPILY tactical knee pads. These knee pads are designed for fun paintball games. I received these knee pads in a paintball rental package and loved the comfort and performance offered by them. I was quite surprised after knowing the price of these tactical knee pads. These knee pads come at a fraction of the price of some professional-grade options on this list.
The pads combine a solid shell construction with a thick layer of EVA foam padding. Shock absorbing, durable TPU shells ensure 100% protection from knee injuries in the field. The EVA foam padding inside improves the shock-absorbing ability and enhances the comfort level.
These knee pads come with high elastic Velcro for a solid and secure fit. It is available in only one size but the straps are fully adjustable and help you get a perfect fit. I’ve big muscular legs and I have no issues with the fit. The steps are strong enough to hold them in place. This set consists of 4 pieces including 2 knee pads and 2 elbow sleeves.
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Elbow sleeves are made with lightweight nylon shells that resist impact and improve performance. This safety gear makes it easy to jump, slide, dive, and crawl even in the most challenging field conditions. Since these knee pads come with shells, they are bulky and heavy with other padded knee sleeves. Also, the build quality isn’t very great.
If you are a beginner who doesn’t know how to survive in jumps and dives, these knee pads with rugged outer shells are the best choice for you. With an affordable price, solid protection, and ultra-comfortable design these are the best knee pads for paintball that you can buy today.
EMERSONGEAR Tactical Knee Pads
Specifications:
- Color: DE, BK
- Closure Type: Hook and Loop
- Material: Cotton, Ethylene Vinyl
- Sizes: One Size
- Rugged shell protection
- Secure and strong straps
- Heavy duty construction
- Heavy and bulky
Next on the list of best paintball knee pads is the Emersongear tactical knee pad. These knee pads are super affordable but can outperform many expensive options out there. The pads are extremely lightweight and flexible and offer solid protection without limiting your mobility.
These pads are designed for tough combat situations and combine a shock-absorbing shell with an Ulta shaft cotton. Fabric. The shell can dissipate the maximum impact energy and ensures 100% protection in all conditions. The shell is connected to the cotton fabric with high-strength adhesive.
The whole structure conforms to the natural anatomical structures and offers a very comfortable fit. EVA 40-degree foam cotton paddings act soft on the skin and improve the cushion and support. The knee pads are secured by a fully adjustable hook and loop structure. Since these pads are heavy, they need a solid and secure fit. These adjustable straps are very strong and hold the structure in place throughout the game.
The pads are made with high-quality materials and can rest the impact for a long time. Shell construction is rugged. I’ve been using them for the past three seasons and they are holding up everything really well. These knee pads are heavy and bulky and made for people who practice and play in very tough conditions.
Emersongear tactical knee pads are designed for tough tactical application and offer excellent protection to serious paintballers. They offer a solid fit right out of the box, stay well in place, and grant the full range of motion making them the best paintball knee pads.
VIRTUE Breakout Lightweight Knee Pads for Paintball
Specifications:
- Color: Black
- Closure Type: Pull On
- Material: Foam
- Sizes: Small/Medium
- Lightweight and breathable
- Molded foam padding
- Solid protection
- Lacks a secure fit
The final option on the list is Virtue breakout lightweight paintball pads. If you can’t handle the pads with hard shells consider these lightweight pads by Virtue. These pads are made with 4-way starch fabric and feature 3D molded padding. I got these pads for the tough summer paintballing season.
The pads feel like nothing on your knees and I loved how easy it was to move around with these knee pads. The knee pads are highly stretchable and support the full range of motion without hurting your skin. They have been stuffed with high-density foam padding that promises protection.
It resists the impact and absorbs the shock ensuring that you stay safe when you dive, land, or stretch at awkward angles. Also, these knee pads use a high-quality SkinSaver liner. This moisture-wicking liner absorbs sweat keeping the skin dry and fresh throughout the day. It dries quickly and prevents skin irritation.
The knee pads come in 5 different sizes from small to 2x large. They feature a pull-on closure and don’t include hooks, loops, and straps. You need to choose a perfect size to get the right fit. If you don’t choose the right size, they will not stay in place. The only downside of these knee pads is that They slide a little bit and you need to get them back in place after every 30 to 40 minutes.
How To Choose The Best Paintball Knee Pads?
Paintball Knee pads should combine comfort, stability, protection, and comfort, and here is everything that you need to consider while buying new knee pads for paintball.
Shell Vs Non-Shell
Some paintball knee pads come with a solid shell while others feature a fabric construction stuffed with padding. Knee pads with a solid shell offer a better protection level and can resist impact on all types of terrains. If you are an aggressive player who loves to dive, jump, kneel, crawl, roll, and dive, your body can take quite the beating.
Such players need knee pads with solid shells and thick padding. However, these pads are bulky and heavy. If you want to maximize breathability and comfort you can find many solid options without shells. The biggest perk of these knee pads is that you can wear them with your pants, jeans, and leggings.
Protection Level
Protection level should be of course among your top concerns when you buy knee pads. You must ensure that the padding is thick enough to absorb the shock and resist the impacts in the field. You better read reviews of knee pads to get a better understanding of how well it performs well in the field.
You need to look for highly impact-resistant padding along with a secure fit. A secure fit is crucial as you won’t get full protection if the pads slide or move from place during the encounter. It is advised to look for options that are secured by Velcro straps. Some pull-on sleeves also work well but you cannot adjust the size and fit if you buy knee pads with pull-on closures.
Breathability
The next feature you need to look for is breathability. If you play paintball in summer, you need a vented knee pad sleeve. If it is not vented make sure it is breathable and can absorb moisture. It must contain a moisture-wicking liner that can absorb sweat and keep your body dry and fresh. Also, it is advised to look for lightweight options for a better feel and fewer chances of skin rashes.
Size And Fit
Size and fit are among the most crucial factors if a pad doesn’t fit you can’t expect an optimal protection level. Paintball knee pads come in various sizes from small to extra large. You need to look for an option that comes with a custom fit.
It allows you to adjust the size as per your requirements. If you are buying an option that comes in one size fits all, you may not get a perfect fit. It is advised to read the size guide carefully. Also, all knee pads are not made true to size. You may need to choose one size up or down to get a perfect fit.
Build Quality
Paintball knee pads by renowned brands don’t come cheap. You can find many affordable options but most of them compromise quality. If you play paintball for fun, you can buy affordable knee pads. But if you play in a professional environment it is advised to invest in high-quality knee pads like Carbon, HK Army, and Dye. The protection level and comfort also depend on how well a knee pad is made.
Hours of Research
In-Depth Product Testing and Comparison
Experts Reviewd
FAQs
Are knee pads worth it?
Yes, knee pads are definitely worth it as they reduce the chances of injuries when you slide, crawl, dive, and jump in the field. Knee pads absorb the shocks and print the impact for maximum protection.
How do I choose knee pads?
You need to look for fit, breathability, comfort, and level of protection while buying new knee pads. Also, you need to consider the weight, durability, and mobility while choosing new knee pads.
Wrapping Up
I’m hopeful that this review and guide will help you with the best Paintball Knee pads. It is advised to choose an option that fits you well and offers a secure fit. Here are my top three picks from the list
- Dye Precision Performance Paintball Knee Pads for form-fitting design, adjustable straps, and armor-level protection.
- HK Army Crash Knee Pads for an ultra-secure fit, fully adjustable design, best brand name value, and solid protection.
- HK Army Paintball CTX Knee Pads for class-leading impact resistance, ultra-comfortable padded profile, and super breathable construction.
Finally, I recommend you choose the option to prefer lightweight and minimal designs with solid padding. These paddings ensure mobility, let you live freely, and ensure comfortable, making them ideal for long paintball sessions.