Best Football Thigh & Knee Pads of 2025

Jason Kiser Avatar
Jason Kiser
Last Updated: Jan 16, 2025

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Football thigh and knee pads are essential pieces of equipment for any football player, whether they are playing in a recreational league or at a professional level. These pads provide crucial protection to the knees and thighs, which are vulnerable areas that can be easily injured during impact. Made from durable materials, such as foam and plastic, these pads are designed to absorb shock and distribute impact evenly across the surface of the pad. They are also lightweight and comfortable to wear, allowing players to move freely and perform at their best. With a variety of styles and sizes available, football thigh and knee pads are a must-have for anyone who wants to stay safe and protected on the field.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Champro Ultra Light Knee Pad Cover #TOP 1
Champro Ultra Light Knee Pad
ftb score rating icon 9.9
Martin Sports Lightweight Thigh & Knee Pads Cover #TOP 2
Martin Sports Lightweight Thigh & Knee Pads
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Martin/Russell 7-Piece Football Pad Set Cover #TOP 3
Martin/Russell 7-Piece Football Pad Set
ftb score rating icon 9.6

Top 10 Football Thigh & Knee Pads

#TOP 1

Champro Ultra Light Knee Pad

FKPUL-A
White
Adult
Champro Ultra Light Knee Pad Cover
Champro Varsity Ultra Light Knee Pad (White, Adult)

The Champro Knee Pad provides excellent protection and comfort for athletes. Its contoured molded design ensures a snug fit while allowing for flexibility during movement. With its ultra-light insert pads, you can enjoy enhanced comfort without sacrificing safety on the field. The package dimensions make it easy to store and transport, so you can take your gear anywhere. This knee pad is perfect for those who prioritize both protection and ease of use in their sports equipment.

What We Like
Perfect fit for various sizes
Durable and long-lasting
Effective knee protection
Good value for money
What We Don't Like
Somewhat large for certain pants
Thicker and stiffer than expected
#TOP 2

Martin Sports Lightweight Thigh & Knee Pads

TAL-KAL
White
Adult
Martin Sports Lightweight Thigh & Knee Pads Cover
Martin Sports Football Adult Lightweight Thigh & Knee Pad Set - 2 Thighs & 2 Knees

The Martin Sports Thigh & Knee Pads are designed for athletes aged 13 and up, providing essential protection during games. The thigh pads, measuring 8.25" x 6.25", are lightweight and feature plastic inserts, allowing you to move freely while remaining safeguarded. The knee pads, at 7.5" x 5", offer additional coverage and comfort, helping to absorb impact. With a classic white color, these pads can easily match your team uniform while ensuring you stay protected on the field.

What We Like
High quality materials
Comfortable fit
Stylish design
Durable construction
What We Don't Like
Limited color options
#TOP 3

Martin/Russell 7-Piece Football Pad Set

Martin Sports and Russell
KAL-RPIHPMK-RPITPMK
White
Adult
Martin/Russell 7-Piece Football Pad Set Cover
Martin/Russell Athletic Football Adult Men's 7-Piece Pad Set - (2) Thigh Pads, (2) Knee Pads, (2) Hip Pads and (1) Tail Pad

The Martin/Russell Football Pad Set is designed to keep you protected on the field. This comprehensive 7-piece set includes two thigh pads, two knee pads, two hip pads, and one tail pad, ensuring full coverage for your lower body. The thigh pads are lightweight and feature plastic inserts for enhanced protection against impacts. Meanwhile, the knee, hip, and tail pads are designed to be low profile and light, allowing for easy movement without sacrificing safety. Perfect for players aged 13 and up, this set fits most adult slotted pants and girdles, making it a convenient choice for serious athletes.

What We Like
Comprehensive protection
Lightweight design
Low profile pads
Fits most girdles
Suitable for ages 13
#TOP 4

McDavid Hex Pads for Youth

MD6440
Black
Youth
McDavid Hex Pads for Youth Cover
McDavid Hex Pads for Knees, Elbows & Shins, Moisture Wicking with HEX Technology, Black, Youth (1 Pair)

McDavid Hex Pads offer essential protection for your knees, elbows, and shins, making them ideal for various contact sports like basketball and football. The comfortable design ensures a snug fit, helping to prevent injuries while you play. With superior Hex Technology, these pads provide durable padding that boosts your confidence during collisions. Plus, the moisture-wicking fabric keeps you cool and dry by managing sweat effectively. Whether you’re in training or competition, these pads are a smart choice for enhancing your performance and safety.

What We Like
Good fit for kids
Comfortable for active use
Breathable material
Stylish look
Effective protection
What We Don't Like
Durability concerns
Tears easily
#TOP 5

McDavid 7-Pad Compression Tights

29369166424
Black
Adult-Large
McDavid 7-Pad Compression Tights Cover
Mcdavid Mens Football Integrated 7 Pad ¾ Compression Tights, Protection for HIPS, Thighs, Tailbone & Knees, Adult

The McDavid Compression Tights provide exceptional protection for football players, featuring hard-shell thigh guards that cover your hips, thighs, tailbone, and knees. This ensures you stay safe during intense contact sports. The anatomically designed guards offer comfort while meeting high school football regulations, and there’s even a pocket for a cup for added security. Made with high-density foam padding and flatlock stitching, these tights deliver durability and breathability, allowing you to focus on your game without discomfort. Easy to care for and machine-washable, they are perfect for athletes at any level.

What We Like
Comfortable for sports and activities
Great for motorcycle protection
Good quality product
Reasonably priced
What We Don't Like
Fit may be tight
Misleading description on thigh guards
#TOP 6

Champro Varsity Low Rise Knee Pad

FKP1
WHITE
Youth
Champro Varsity Low Rise Knee Pad Cover
Champro Varsity Low Rise Knee Pad (White, Adult)

The Champro Varsity Low Rise Knee Pad is a sporting good that features a contoured shape that conforms to the player's body. Its universal design allows it to fit any traditional style football pant. It is vinyl coated, making it durable and long-lasting. This product is categorized as a football thigh and knee pad.

What We Like
Effective for football
Fast delivery
Perfect fit for teens
Solid construction
What We Don't Like
Can shift inside pants
Thickness may vary
#TOP 7

Martin Sports 7-Piece Football Pad Set

HAL-TAL-KAL
White
Adult
Martin Sports 7-Piece Football Pad Set Cover
Martin Sports Adult Football 7-Piece Slotted Pad Set - 2 Knees, 2 Thighs, 2 HIPS, 1 Tail

The Martin Sports Football Pad Set is designed for players aged 13 and up, making it a versatile choice for both young athletes and adults. This set includes two knee pads, two thigh pads, two hip pads, and one tail pad, ensuring comprehensive protection during games. The thigh pads are equipped with plastic inserts, providing added safety to help you stay injury-free on the field. With a clean white color, these pads not only offer functionality but also a classic look. Whether you're playing competitively or for fun, this set will help you perform with confidence.

What We Like
Good functionality
Sufficient for sports
Works well for football
#TOP 8

McDavid Hex Knee Compression Sleeves

6446R-R-S
Royal
ADULT- Small
McDavid Hex Knee Compression Sleeves Cover
McDavid Hex Knee Compression Sleeves, Pull-On Padded Protection, Moisture Wicking (1 Pair) Royal ADULT- Small

The McDavid Knee Sleeves provide excellent protection for your knees during high-impact sports. With built-in padding, these sleeves shield your knees from injuries while you play. You'll appreciate the extended length, which not only covers your legs but also prevents scrapes and chafing. The non-slip design ensures they stay in place, allowing you to focus on your game without distractions. Plus, the advanced moisture-wicking technology keeps you cool and dry, making your workouts more comfortable and enjoyable.

What We Like
Excellent knee padding
Durable with good elasticity
Stays in place during activity
Comfortable and flexible fit
Effective compression support
What We Don't Like
Outer fabric may tear quickly
Sizing can be a bit small
#TOP 9

Generic Football Knee Pads

Generic
White
Generic Football Knee Pads Cover
Football Adult Set (2) Oval Disc Knee Pads

The Generic Football Knee Pads, also known as the Generic Knee Pads, are a great set of knee pads designed specifically for skill position players in football. These knee pads are low profile, oval-shaped, and lightweight, providing maximum comfort and protection on the field. Suitable for teenagers and adults wearing slotted pants, these knee pads are perfect for quarterbacks, running backs, and receivers. With dimensions of 5.25" x 4" x 0.5", they are the ideal size for a secure fit. Whether you're diving for a catch or evading tackles, these knee pads will ensure your knees stay safe and supported throughout the game.

What We Like
Comfortable fit
Effective performance
Minimal size
Good replacement option
#TOP 10

CHAMPRO Ultra Light Thigh Pad

FTPUL-Y
WHITE
Youth
CHAMPRO Ultra Light Thigh Pad Cover
Champro Ultra Light Thigh Pad (White, Youth)

The CHAMPRO Thigh Pad offers exceptional protection while allowing you to move freely on the field. Its ultralight design means you won’t feel weighed down, making it easier to perform at your best. The contoured shape fits snugly against your body, ensuring comfort and preventing shifting during play. With a lightweight foam padding shell, you gain added safety without compromising your agility. This product is sold in pairs, giving you complete coverage for both thighs. Experience enhanced protection and mobility with this essential gear.

What We Like
Excellent build quality
Efficient performance
Attractive design
Easy to use
What We Don't Like
Limited color options
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Why do football players wear thigh and knee pads?

Football players wear thigh and knee pads to reduce the risk of injuries. These pads provide added protection to the thighs and knees, which are vulnerable areas during gameplay. Wearing thigh and knee pads can help prevent severe injuries and potentially extend a player's career.

2. Do football players still wear thigh pads?

Yes, football players still wear thigh pads. Most football pants come with built-in pockets for thigh and knee pads, and some players also store their thigh pads in their girdle for extra padding. Thigh pads are a required piece of football gear in every league, including the NFL.

3. What is the NFL rule on thigh pads?

The NFL has a rule that requires all players to wear leg and thigh pads. This rule was implemented to ensure player safety and reduce the risk of injuries. Players are required to wear pads on their legs and thighs during games.

4. Why do pro football players not wear knee pads anymore?

Professional football players may choose not to wear knee pads because they are not effective at protecting players from injuries and can potentially increase the risk of concussions. Knee pads are also bulky and can hinder a player's mobility on the field.

5. Why don't NFL players wear hip pads?

In the NFL, players prioritize comfort over safety when it comes to football equipment. This is why many players choose not to wear thigh pads, knee pads, hip pads, or butt pads. While these pads are required in college and high school football, they are not mandatory in the NFL.

6. Why are football pads so small now?

Football pads have become smaller in recent years to improve player speed and mobility. Excessive padding can slow down players, especially positions like wide receivers and running backs who rely on their speed and agility to make plays. Smaller pads still provide some level of protection while allowing players to maintain their performance on the field.

7. What do NFL players wear under their pads?

NFL players often wear compression apparel underneath their pads. Compression gear helps keep muscles in place, reduces vibrations during activity, and provides added comfort and mobility. It is a popular choice among football players as it does not hinder their movement or performance.

Editor's Notes

During our football thigh & knee pad research, we found 24 football thigh & knee pad products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 79,876 customer reviews through our big data system to write the football thigh & knee pads list. We found that most customers choose football thigh & knee pads with an average price of $24.18.

The football thigh & knee pads are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of football thigh & knee pads, including CHAMPRO, Martin Sports, Martin Sports and Russell, McDavid, Martin Archery. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 419 consumers with an average rating of 4.5.

Written by
Jason Kiser Avatar

Jason Kiser is an editor who lives in California, he previously worked in a travel agency for ten years, which enabled him to travel a number of interesting countries and experience several different cultures along the way. His range of job and travel experiences grant him expertise in hiking, camping, outdoors and fitness.

Football Thigh & Knee Pads Comparison Table

#TOP1
#TOP2
#TOP3
#TOP4
#TOP5
#TOP6
#TOP7
#TOP8
#TOP9
#TOP10
Brand CHAMPRO Martin Sports Martin Sports and Russell McDavid McDavid CHAMPRO Martin Archery McDavid Generic CHAMPRO
Color White White White Black - WHITE - - White WHITE
Material Foam Plastic Plastic Nylon - - - - - Foam
FTB Score
ftb score rating icon 9.9
ftb score rating icon 9.8
ftb score rating icon 9.6
ftb score rating icon 9.4
ftb score rating icon 9.2
ftb score rating icon 9.2
ftb score rating icon 9.0
ftb score rating icon 8.9
ftb score rating icon 8.7
ftb score rating icon 8.5
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