Best Paintball Elbow Pads In 2022 | Ultimate Reviews and Buying Guide

Paintball pads are very important gears. They ensure players don’t get serious injuries (bruising or scrapes) while playing. If you like playing outdoors, you never know what might happen to you. To ensure your safety so you can have fun, you need the pads to protect your elbows.

Are you considering your options for the best paintball elbow pads? If so, you don’t need to look any further. We have done the donkey work for you, scoured stores for hours, checked online, and even conducted interviews with professional paintball players to come up with the list of paintball pads reviewed in this article. Without further ado, let look at the top 10 best paintball elbow pads.

Every game requires you to have the right gear. Just like you need quality bowling balls, you also need protective equipment for paintball. Elbows take a lot of punishments when playing paintball. Therefore, it is important to protect them from injuries with quality elbow pads. We have a roundup of the best paintball elbow pads you should consider buying.

1. FreeFlex Elbow Pads/Arm Pad

FreeFlex Elbow Pads/Arm Pad

Exalt is very popular for manufacturing high-quality elbow and arm pads. This FreeFlex Elbow Pads/Arm Pad doesn’t disappoint. First of all, it’s quite affordable compared to other pads. Being that its triple-padded means it offers more comfort and durability.

These pads are custom-designed to achieve a perfect fit. Exalt used breathable mesh lining and thermo-fabrics on these pads for added safety, comfort and flexibility. When wearing these arm pads, you won’t feel any discomfort on your skin, and your mobility won’t be affected.

The FreeFlex Elbow pad uses a modern quad-core padding system which enhances its moisture-wicking capability. The all-new forearm/elbow pad is designed to flex, stretch, bend, and conform with your arm to offer an optimal level of comfort and flexibility.

This elbow pad has compression padding that absorbs impact to ensure your arms are safe. Its elbow cup is ribbed to support the elbows and increase the lifespan of the arm pads. The two straps on this elbow pad make it easy to fit them firmly on the arms.

Pros

  • It has an elbow cup for added durability
  • Adjustable forearm strap and retention strap for better fitting
  • Mesh lining for breathability and airflow
  • Moisture-wicking for increased comfort
  • Excellent flexibility

Cons

  • Not greatly padded
  • Smaller than other pads

2. Bunker Kings V2 Royal Guard Elbow Pads - Black

Bunker Kings V2 Royal Guard Elbow Pads - Black

The Bunker Kings V2 Royal Guard Elbow Pads are designed with extreme sports in mind. These pads will keep you covered for many years regardless of the kind of sport you participate in. The pads are made using materials developed by BK and designed to offer maximum protection without compromising mobility.

These sleeves have a Second Skin Feature, making them feel like they are part of your body, meaning they won’t slip easily, especially if you pick the correct size. It is highly recommended that you buy a larger size than you’d normally wear because of their compression fit nature, making them appear smaller.

The V2 Royal Guard Elbow Pads are dual-layered in the main impact zones. This ensures you are safe from any impact. This makes it suitable for outdoor sports like Paintball, Airsoft, Snowboarding, etc. The pads can withstand harsh environments because of their Duraflex covering and other durable features.

Pros

  • Provides royal protection
  • Made from durable BK-developed materials
  • They’re soft, elastic, and versatile
  • It can be used by professional athletes
  • Dries fast even if you sweat a lot

Cons

  • The straps aren't sowed well
  • The sleeves get too hot very quickly. They are not very breathable.

3. Exalt Paintball T3 Elbow Pads

Exalt Paintball T3 Elbow Pads - Black/Grey

Like all other Exalt products, the Exalt Paintball T3 Elbow Pads are popular for durability and attractiveness. These sleeves are designed to withstand not only bad weather but also high impacts. They are designed to suit the various requirements you may have as an athlete.

What you’ll love more from these pads are their triple-layer padding's which provide extra protection to the elbow. So even if you fall or you are hit during a game, you won’t get injured.

Be it comfort, flexibility, or high-quality materials; the Exalt Paintball T3 Elbow Pads are the best bet for your outdoor activities.

Apart from the triple padding, these sleeves also have excellent moisture-wicking abilities. They’ll soak up sweat to keep your arms cool and dry. Because of this, you can even use them in hot weather. 

Being that they are flexible and abrasion-resistant, you’ll be able to move your arms naturally without feeling any strain. However, these pads are suitable for beginners who don’t play in very rough conditions.

Pros

  • Good fit and coverage
  • Moisture-wicking technology
  • Triple-layer padding for added protection
  • Flexible and low profile arm pads
  • The internal lining allows ventilation and airflow

Cons

  • Comes in a single color
  • Has no customizable Velcro straps

4. HK Army Crash Arm Pads

HK Army Crash Arm Pads

If you are a newbie or an intermediate paintball player, these pads are for you. And if you are looking for high-quality arm pads at an affordable price, you need not look further than the HK Army Crash Arm Pads. These pads have extra padding for comfort and they are easy to wear, durable, comfortable, and lightweight.

The 4-way thermo-fabric, soft foam, and dual-layered design ensure these sleeves can withstand wear and tear associated with outdoor paintball games. They’ll provide you with the optimal level of comfort and flexibility.

The HK Army Crash Arm Pads are designed to allow your skin to breathe so it can stay cool, even in hot weather. Another great feature of these pads is that Velcro straps are used to secure them at the biceps, so they’ll feel like they are part of your skin.

The pads also have reinforced gloves and thumb loops that help provide excellent protection to the hands. It may take you a while to get used to them, but once you do so, you find out that they are among the best pads in the market today.

Pros

  • Four-way flex material for exceptional comfort
  • Low-profile design
  • Dual-crash padding
  • Perfect airflow and ventilation
  • Available in various sizes

Cons

  • The arm pads are a little oversized
  • It May not fit well for everyone

5. Social Paintball SMPL Arm & Elbow Pads Protection

Social Paintball SMPL Arm & Elbow Pads Protection

These elbow pads protect your arms and elbows. They come in red and black color and they are comfortable to wear. The pads are lightweight with 4-way stretch sleeve. This material has great moisture wicking abilities and it is quick drying.

It also provides multi-directional support with full range motion and enhanced breathability. The elbow pad is durable and the outer layer of the fabric is abrasion-resistant. The impact padding utilizes professional technology to protect your elbows.

The elbow pads are designed to work perfectly with any paintball jersey and gloves available. the bicep cuff is nonslip to ensure the sleeve stays in place and you can focus on your game. These elbow pads are also great if you need entry level pads at an affordable price.

Pros

  • Works well with any paintball jersey
  • They are durable and lightweight
  • Effective padding for maximum protection
  • Breathable and offers multi-directional support
  • Comes at an affordable price
  • Soft and comfortable to wear

Cons

  • Great but too thin

6. HK Army HSTL Line Elbow Pads

HK Army HSTL Line Elbow Pads

The HK Army HSTL Line Elbow Pads promise a lot in terms of high-quality features that improve comfort and performance. The pads are dual-layered using high-impact, high-density paddings, which make them durable.

While they are lightweight, their design relies on high-quality materials. Their four-way sleeve design ensures they have unmatched flexibility, which will give you freedom of movement. 

The adjustable straps add to the comfort while also enhancing mobility. The four-way stretch sleeve further enhances the freedom of movement.

The HK Army HSTL Line Arm Pads are designed for mid and entry-level players. The pads offer the highest level of protection to players and are available in the market at a fair price. So, if you are a pro, it’s advasble you should look elewhere.

Only the best and high-quality materials were used to make the HK Army HSTL Line Elbow Pads to ensure they’ll serve you for many years if you maintain them well.

Pros

  • Adjustable Velcro strap
  • Lightweight, breathable four-way stretch sleeve
  • Arm support made of neoprene
  • Dual-layered pad
  • Very flexible and comfortable

Cons

  • Can’t protect against fired shots
  • Not designed for professional players

7. Planet Eclipse Overload HD Core Elbow Pads

Planet Eclipse Overload HD Core Elbow Pads

Planet Eclipse is another company known for manufacturing high-quality paintball items. Their Overload HD Core Elbow Pads are durable, flexible, and comfortable, but you must choose the correct size. The pads are also tough, meaning they can sustain reasonable abrasive forces.

These pads are designed with the players in mind. For example, they have a high density (HD) core foam that enhances their comfort. 

The core foam is the highlight of the pads because it provides the protection for arms and elbows that every player needs. You’ll love them more because they are soft yet excellent at absorbing impacts from paintball hits.

The arm pads come in different sizes and colors, so you can choose the one that fits you and suits your taste. To get well-fitting pads, buy the next size up from your normal size. 

If you buy your usual size, they will fit tightly and make you feel uncomfortable. You may even end up getting blisters on your skin if the pads fit tightly.

Pros

  • Comes at an affordable price
  • Mesh lining and neoprene allows for ventilation and free airflow
  • Strong and durable
  • They provide a soft feel
  • high density (HD) core foam

Cons

  • Some users claim the seam is off at the elbows (choose the correct size)
  • Smaller than the US standard size

8. Dye Paintball Performance Elbow Pad

Dye Paintball Performance Elbow Pad

As you might have known already, Dye is a company that manufactures high-end, premium products that can never let you down. Because of this, the prices of their products are often on the higher side. 

Notwithstanding, these products provide value for money. The Dye Paintball Performance Elbow Pads aren’t an exception. They are high-quality pads that are popular for their comfort.

One of the strongest selling points of these pads is the airprene material used in making them. This material makes them so light that you won’t feel any weight when you have them on. 

These pads stand tall when it comes to durability and comfort. They are flexible and very lightweight without compromising their protective ability.

These pads have integrated EVA foam and gel inserts that add to the flexibility and performance enhancement. They have a slight curve that will allow your arm to move freely. These arm pads provide adequate protection to the arms, particularly the elbows.

Pros

  • Have integrated slider gloves
  • Manufactured using EVA foam, making them to be lightweight
  • Better fitting, thanks to the adjustable straps
  • Natural elbow bend for greater flexibility
  • Strong and durable

Cons

  • Pricier compared to other models
  • Not easy to find a fitting size

9. Exalt Paintball Alpha Elbow Pads

Exalt Alpha Elbow Pad

Paintball Alpha Elbow Pads are great pads from Exalt. These pads are manufactured using high-quality materials to provide the highest level of protection. They are designed for professional use, meaning they can withstand tough conditions and harsh weather elements.

These pads will protect you adequately against impact and bruising. Many athletes like these pads because they are lightweight and come with moisture-wicking sleeves that will ensure you remain dry and comfortable. The custom high-density foam pad makes these pads great for robust playing.

These pads are affordable and will provide you with the level of protection you need while paintballing. Its exterior sleeve and moisture-wicking liner ensure it’s breathable. The pads have anti-slip silicone weaves that hold them into place, ensuring they don’t slip as you play. Additionally, the pads have relief cuts that are strategically placed to ensure added flex in the arm.

Paintball Alpha Elbow Pads are very flexible. They will easily move with your body without causing any disturbance or irritation. Another thing you’ll like about these pads is the rubberized anti-slip bicep cuffs.

Pros

  • Highly flexible padding
  • Anti-slip silicone
  • Moisture-wicking
  • Lightweight
  • High-quality material

Cons

  • Frays if it touches Velcro and slides around a little 
  • Runs small size, you have to order one size more.

10. Empire Paintball Grind Elbow Pad THT

Empire Paintball Grind Elbow Pad THT

Empire Grind THT elbow pads are designed to help professional players perform their best, thanks to the input from players from Dynasty and Infamous, the pads feature the best combination of forearm and elbow protection on the market while at the same providing a compression fit and ventilation for comfort and a 100% custom feel. You can dive in, go hard, and feed into the opponents one point to the next with these pads.

Empire Paintball Grind Elbow pads are awesome products going by their design. The manufacturer used high-quality materials in making their pads to ensure they provide superior protection. The pads have bicep straps, adjustable wrist, and Thumhole loops for a custom fit. They also offer remarkable ventilation for comfortable play in both cold and hot conditions.

Empire Grind THT Elbow Pads are thermal molded and have padded back to provide additional protection against dives and impacts. For the best experience, you have to match your elbow size with the elbow pad size chart. These paintball elbow pads offer the best features compared to other pads in the same price range.

Pros

  • Lightweight
  • EVA padding memory foam
  • Adequate ventilation and thicker elbow pad
  • High-quality material
  • Awesome design, gloves fit over loop

Cons

  • The pads are a little itchy
  • Not well stitched

Factors to Consider When Buying the Best Paintball Elbow Pads

Factors like comfort, budget, and size depend on an individual. What’s suitable for you, may not be so for the other person. 

Here are some of the factors you need to consider when buying paintball pads.

Durability, Comfort, And Flexibility

Paintball gear costs money; that’s why you need to pick the most durable to eliminate regular replacements. Your comfort also matters a lot because any pains or bruises can spoil the fun in the game. You must also consider buying pads that are flexible, so you can move freely and naturally.

Weather-Resistance

Weather resistance goes hand-in-hand with durability. A water-resistant arm pad or a waterproof arm pad should be your best option if you are a paintball player. You can choose a pad with a moisture-wicking capability if you like playing in hot weather. The moisture-wicking technology will also add to your comfort.

Coverage Length

Paintball arm pads will cover your elbow and part of your arm. If you aren’t comfortable with this, you can buy elbow pads that will only cover your elbow region. However, you should remember that longer arm pads offer more protection than small pads. 

But if you want your arms to move freely and flexibly, you can buy fuller arm pads. Also, when you have to dodge paintballs or crawl, your arms and elbows will need to be protected adequately.

Protection and Padding

Paintball Elbow Pads

The main reason why you need elbow or arm pads is protection. The protection that the pads offer comes from their padding. If you want more protection, you’ll have to buy pads with thicker padding. But you have to remember that very thick padding can also restrict your movement. So you have to balance between protection and mobility.

Airflow and Breathability

Arm pads normally have many layers made of different materials to allow air to flow freely to the skin. The purpose of the mesh-linings, 4-way stretchable materials, etc., is to provide ventilation and comfort. The best paintball elbow pads are those that will keep you cool in hot weather by absorbing sweat and also retain warmth when it’s cold to protect your bones from chills.

Fitting and Fastenings

best elbow pads for paintball

Before you buy paintball elbow pads check their sizes. You can measure your arm to get the right pad size for you. Some paintball elbow pad manufacturers don’t follow the standard US measurements. In such a case, you can pick the next size. Remember that UK measurements are smaller than the US measurements.

Aesthetics

The best paintball elbow pads come in different designs. So when buying these pads pick a design and color that suits your style and taste. If you are an indoor paintball player, you can choose bold patterns and flashy colors. 

But if you are an outdoor player, better choose something that’s not very flashy. Also, remember to choose arm pads that blend well with your surroundings so you don’t call attention to yourself.

Ease of Maintenance

All sports gear need maintenance, and paintball elbow pads aren’t an exception. That’s why when buying paintball arm/elbow pads, make sure they are easy to maintain. Some of these pads are machine-washable, while some need to be washed by hand. Ensure you follow the manufacturer’s instructions when maintaining your arm pad.

Customer Reviews

Before you buy an arm pad, you need to know what those who’ve used it are saying. From the customer reviews, you can get fast-hand information from both the satisfied and the dissatisfied customers. This will help you make an informed decision. A paintball pad with many positive reviews is the best choice for you. You need not worry about a few negative reviews because people have different tastes. However, if a pad has many negative reviews, don’t buy it.

Frequently Asked Questions

What to look for in elbow/forearm pads for paintball?

When buying elbow/forearm pads, ensure they are breathable, lightweight, comfortable, durable, and flexible. Most pads with neoprene, four-way stretch materials have these properties, especially those with dual-layer protection. Also, make sure the pads you are buying fit well and don’t cause bruises or skin irritation.

Should elbow pads be tight?

Not very tight. Elbow pads should be snug, meaning they should fit as tight as possible without being uncomfortable or painful. So when wearing elbow pads, make sure you don’t feel any pinching or feeling as if your blood circulation is being hindered.

Which elbow pads are best?

It is great to consider essential things that make up quality paintball elbow pads. We put the above considerations in mind when picking our top elbow pads. Any of the above elbow pads is best suited for any paintball player.

Do pro paintball players wear pads?

Bounces are the main reason why paintball players need padding on their jerseys. It’s fine to argue that paddings on jerseys are helpful. However, they do so little to protect the knees by using Knee pad. In fact, having padded pants/jerseys, chest protection, etc., in a paintball tournament is considered cheating in the game.

How to size paintball elbow pads?

Most paintball elbow pads are smaller than the standard US sizes. So you need to buy one size larger than your usual size. Another option is to try out the pads from your friends in the field then order the size you feel fits you well.

Final Words

The paintball arm pads discussed above are currently the best in the market. They are also the most affordable, considering the features they offer. The pads are designed for specific experience levels. So if you are a beginner, you need to choose the pads meant for newbies or mid-level players. If you are a pro, you haven’t been left behind; there are pads for you.

Several factors were considered while coming up with the above list, including breathability, flexibility, padding quality, and comfort. The elbow pads discussed above score highly on these features. Other factors considered are comfort, weather resistance, and the materials used to make them.

Matt Bartlett
 

Outside is always better .I'm an avid Traveler, Cyclist, Paddler,Hiker, Outdoor Adventurer, Sports Lover & Wannabe Runner. I write about adventures and share them on my website and for other outdoor publications. . Wannabe Runner Love being outdoors.I enjoy sharing outdoor experiences with others.

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