Handball knee pads
Goalkeepers, defenders, and wingers who slide on the floor know it well: a bare knee on a court quickly gets scraped, and the knee pad is chosen based on how you fall, face-first, on the side, or in a dive.
Front cushioning, side protection, gel or simple compression, most models are sold in pairs and are chosen based on knee circumference.
Front foam, side protection or gel: how they absorb impacts
The classic knee pad has foam in front of the kneecap for falls from the front. Models with side protections, like the VS1 from Mizuno, also cover the sides of the knee for slips and dives. The Gel knee pad from Asics incorporates a gel that absorbs impacts. A compression knee pad, finally, doesn't protect from shocks but supports the joint.
Knee and kneecap measurement: measure before ordering
Each brand has its own method. Errea asks to measure fifteen centimetres below the middle of the kneecap, while McDavid measures the circumference of the knee. The VS1 from Mizuno ranges from S, for 33 to 35 cm, to XL, for 43 to 50 cm. A knee pad that's too wide will slip on the first dive, while one that's too tight will cut off circulation.
Metal-free knee pads: what the regulations allow
In handball, a knee pad must not have any metallic elements, and its plastic parts must be fully padded. The foam and textile models on this page are therefore allowed in matches.
Mizuno, Errea, Select: the knee pads to know
- Select with hand and compression knee pads for men and women.
- Mizuno with the VS1, ventilated, with front and side protection, and the Team.
- Errea with the Tokyo, made of elastic cotton and polyurethane foam on the kneecap, recommended for competition.
- McDavid with the HEX Force and its hexagonal cells.
- Asics with the Gel knee pad, available in several colours.
- Nike with knee pads for ground defence.
Elbow pads, ankle braces, compression: adjacent protections
For dives, elbow pads protect the other point of contact with the ground. Ankle braces provide secure footing. Compression gear covers the thigh under the shorts. Goalkeepers will also find a padded shirt on the protective textile page.
Knee pad pairs at sweet prices
End-of-line pairs are on the clearance protective gear page. During sales, check the sales equipment page or, at the end of the year, the Black Friday protections.
Frequently asked questions
Does a compression knee pad protect from shock?
No, it supports the joint without absorbing impacts. For a goalkeeper or a defender who dives, choose a front foam, a side protection, or a gel, and make sure that it doesn't have any visible rigid components.
Should a knee pad be worn for every match?
For a goalkeeper or a defender who frequently goes to the ground, yes. A field player who rarely falls can do without it, except on an abrasive surface.
How to prevent a knee pad from slipping?
Get it in your exact size, put it on over dry skin and position the foam well-centred over the kneecap. If it still slips, the elastic is likely worn out.
How to wash a knee pad that smells of sweat?
Wash it after each week of use, by hand or on a delicate cold programme. Let it air dry, never on a radiator.
Short or long knee pad?
A short knee pad leaves the leg free and suits most players. A longer version also covers the upper thigh and lower shin, useful for a goalkeeper who slides a lot.
