Best Elbow Pads for Stakeboarding

Safety is important when skateboarding. Both seasoned and new skateboarders love to ride freely in wide-open streets. They find the sport as essential transportation which is both exciting and enjoyable. However, there are times that this exciting sport can also lead to some incidents which could involve some scratches or bruises. Thus, it is highly recommended that you use the best elbow pads for skateboarding to prevent such from happening.

Later in this article, you will know some of the favorites of skateboarders. Get to know the best elbow pads along with the buyer’s guide in case you are planning to buy elbow pads.

5 Best Elbow Pads for Skateboarding

You might find the best elbow pads for skateboarding as non-essential for your sport. However, this should be the right time that you correct that thinking. Elbow pads are necessary, hence, it is smart that you invest in this item. However, the challenge in buying elbow pads is that there are plenty of models and brands available in the market. If you are clueless about how to process the selection, you will certainly find it daunting to find the right elbow pads.

To help you find the best elbow pads, we have listed some of the best elbow pads for skateboarding. The following products have remarkable features. We have also listed their pros and cons so you will know what to expect. Here are some products that you should check:

1. Triple 8 EP 55 Elbow Pads

Star Rating: 4.6 out of 5

Best Elbow Pad in Longevity

Description:

  • Excellent quality
  • Flat-cap design
  • Guarantee comfort

Features:

  • Adjustable strap
  • Elastic band
  • Heavy-duty EVA foam

Triple 8 EP 55 Elbow Pads guarantee the highest protection by featuring first-rate elbow cushioning. This product is manufactured by a popular company, thus, you can have the confidence that it is built with excellent quality.

This elbow pad was designed while putting into consideration the comfort of the riders. It has a composition of 10% PP plastic, 10% elastic, 30% polyester, and 50% nylon. This combination has made the sleeve breathable and cool.

Furthermore, this product has an elastic band and adjustable strap at the lower part which guarantees comfort and perfect fitting. Moreover, this strap holds the pad in place, thus, preventing it from sliding when riding. It also exhibits additional cushioning through its heavy-duty EVA foam. The foam is shaped like a cup to improve flexibility. Next to that, it is then secured with high-density caps that could resist impact.

You will also love the noticeable stability and durability of this elbow pad as the caps have adhered to the elbow guards with supporting rivets. Different from the foam, the caps are not contoured in a cup. Rather, they stay flat to achieve longevity. Additionally, Triple 8 EP 55 Elbow Pads has a Lycra sleeve which suits well to the elbow to give the coveted support.

Pros:

  • Available in many sizes
  • Breathable
  • Resist impact

Cons:

  • Huge bottom strap

2. 187 Killer Pads Elbow Pad

Star Rating: 4.6 out of 5

Best Elbow Pad with Sleek Finish

Description:

  • Superior interior
  • Streamlined design
  • Less hulking elbow pad

Features:

  • Made from ballistic nylon
  • Excellent quality EVA foam
  • Form-fitting riveted caps

Most of the elbow pads for skateboarding may somehow affect your movements. However, the 187 Killer Pads Elbow Pad is made to be less hulking. Its tapered, sleek finish is very noticeable and you will surely love its look. Also, this elbow pad is made from a lightweight, yet tough ballistic nylon while its double-stitching feature contributes to the durability of the product.

You will also notice that the shape of 187 Killer Pads Elbow Pad is shaped similar to an elbow. Hence, it fits snugly while still providing comfort. It also comes with elastic straps which are broad and supported. The interior of the elbow guard is occupied by the excellent-quality EVA foam that is known to tolerate shocks. Moreover, there are form-fitting riveted caps on the interior which are created from polycarbonate.

There are three options when choosing this pad: Regular, Slim, and Pro. Among the three, the Pro exhibits the thickest padding and consequently provides the ultimate protection. The Slim one can be an ideal choice if you prefer a smaller and lighter elbow pad.

Pros:

  • Available in different sizes
  • Available in Regular, Slim, and Pro
  • Comfortable to use

Cons:

  • The pad may run extremely small for a medium-sized rider

3. G-Form Pro X2 Elbow Pad

Star Rating: 4.6 out of 5

Best Elbow Pad with Great Air Circulation

Description:

  • Excellent fit
  • Superior impact protection
  • Secure fit

Features:

  • SmartFlex technology
  • 2-panel design
  • Front pad ventilation holes

The G-Form Pro X2 Elbow Pad is the new model in the X-series inspired by the G-Form Pro. As expected from a newer version, this pad features impressive features and one of the highlights in this elbow pad is the SmartFlex technology. With this technology, the pad retains its flexibility while you are skateboarding. But its impressive performance simply does not stop there. As soon as you lose your balance and fall, its material hardens to protect your elbow. The energy breaks up.

You will also love its 2-panel design integrated with front pad ventilation holes which helps you to stay cool. You can never question the ability of this pad for air circulation, thus, giving you the assurance that you will not feel overheated.

Moreover, its fabric can wick away moisture and it possesses a UPF rating of 50+. With this rating, you can say that the G-Form Pro X2 Elbow Pad can prevent sunburn. The elbow pad does not slip off, thanks to the silicone grippers and compression fabric. Just like the first model, this elbow pad looks incredibly cool. Although it does not come with a bulky look, it still performs as designed.

Pros:

  • Flexible
  • Breathable
  • Wick away moisture

Cons:

  • Some complaints about its durability

4. Pro-Tec Black Checker Elbow Pads

Star Rating: 4.3 out of 5

Best Elbow Pads with Perforated Neoprene

Description:

  • Slim design
  • Offers more flexibility
  • Undercover protection

Features:

  • EVA foam
  • Ballistic nylon
  • Perforated neoprene

Ensuring safety should always be prioritized, but then ensuring safety while keeping in style can also be equally important. With the Pro-Tec Black Checker Elbow Pads, you can secure your safety and at the same time look cool in its style. It comes with a hard cap design, a comfortable elbow cup structure, diamond texture skid panel, and diamond grip pull tabs.

This elbow pad employs the EVA foam to lock in the elbow to achieve optimal fit and provide the highest protection. It also uses ultra-tough ballistic nylon which works to oppose tears and secures the elbow from scratches and skids. You will also love the cooling effect when using Pro-Tec Black Checker Elbow Pads as they feature perforated neoprene.

Pros:

  • Stylish
  • Comfortable to use
  • Cooling effect

Cons:

  • There is no known drawback for this elbow pad

5. TTIO Elbow Pads

Star Rating: 4 out of 5

Best Elbow Pads with Stretchy Feature

Description:

  • Unique design
  • Stretchy and adjustable
  • Suitable for most sports

Features:

  • EVA foam
  • Silicone non-slip strips
  • Available in three sizes

TTIO Elbow Pads are soft pads that are created from breathable and stretchy chiffon. Also, this fabric is formed by combining cotton, nylon, and spandex. Considering the stretchiness of this product, there is no need for it to attach a strap to its design. The material itself forms to the rider’s shape. Just like most of the popular brands, this elbow pad also uses EVA and because of this, you can say that it is non-toxic and safe to the skin.

Putting on and taking off this pad is also very easy. TTIO Elbow Pads are designed with silicone non-slip strips which are attached on the top and the center portion of the pad to hold it in place. There are three sizes available for this elbow pad so you will have enough selection when looking for the right fit.

Furthermore, the foam padding offers protection by exhibiting good shock absorption. Regardless of your age, the TTIO Elbow Pads can suit well for children and adults who love to participate in sports such as skateboarding, inline skating, snowboarding, and more.

Pros:

  • Breathable
  • Very stretchy
  • Easy-to-use

Cons:

  • A bit expensive

Buyer’s Guide

Here are some factors to consider when buying the best elbow pads for skateboarding:

Material

If you want to ensure the quality of your elbow pads, then you should choose ones that are built from ballistic nylon. The safety of the elbow is not always associated with massive pads which consequently confines the movement of the elbow. Ideally, the cushions should not be very extensive to block the comfort design of the skateboards.

There are also elbow pads that are made from polyester and they are known to be more versatile. Others are using a fabric combination with chiffon to contribute to the breathability of the pad.

Nevertheless, the best elbow pads include a thick plastic shell that is attached to the inside of the cushioning with a reinforced bolt. With this, the plastic shells contribute to the overall protection of the elbow without taking a lot of space. You might want to choose elbow pads that use SmartFlex technology as they are harder than others and can give better protection in case you fall.

Type of Padding

Other than protection, you should be particular with the level of comfort and breathability your elbow pads can give. If they can feel too hot and become uncomfortable, then you shouldn’t wear them.

You should also check the kind of foam used in the elbow pads. To be specific, a high-density foam can keep the entire materials in their place. Most elbow pads are consist of single padding. Nevertheless, it is more ideal if you go for elbow pads with more padding or you can choose ones with hard plastic shells for added safety.

However, you need to know that elbow pads with hard plastic shells can potentially limit your movement. Stretchable padding, on the other hand, can provide protection and flexibility. However, if you want to secure breathability in your elbow pads, then choose perforated pads or compression fabric.

Size

The size of the rider matters. When buying elbow pads, it is recommended that you refer to the size chart before purchasing one.

Your main objective of buying elbow pads is to protect and secure your bones in case you fall. If you neglect to size and you get elbow pads that are too loose, the pads may not work as to how they were designed to be.

Some elbow pads are the same with compression sleeves that have adjustable straps to guarantee tighter fit. Moreover, other elbow pads feature silicone grip to prevent the pads from sliding. Likely, you must not get elbow pads that are too tight as they can impede the circulation of the blood.

Commonly, small elbow pads range from 7 to 8 inches, medium elbow pads range from 9 to 10 inches, and large elbow pads range from 11 to 12 inches.

Shock Absorption

When falling on a hard surface, riders may go through injury-prompting impact. Your elbow pads should have the ability to absorb shocks brought by the impact, supporting you to go up without getting harm.

Budget

It is always advised that you invest in quality elbow pads smartly. However, you should understand that elbow pads are mainly dependent on the requirements of your skateboarding. If you are a frequent skater, then it would be best if you get premium quality pads and these products are normally expensive.

However, if you are a beginner or someone who does not skate often, then you can settle on average-quality pads at an affordable price.

FAQs

Should I really have to wear elbow pads when skateboarding?

Yes! A lot of people have taken for granted the use of elbow pads when skateboarding. Knee pads and helmets do not give 100% protection in the event you fall. Riders will normally attempt to support themselves with either their elbow or arm when they fall and that is why they get elbow injuries.

Moreover, skateboarding is a complex sport and it demands balance when riding. You wouldn’t want to injure your elbow when you hit the ground, right?

Can I use my skateboard elbow pads for longboarding?

Your elbow pads can suit well on numerous sports and that includes longboarding. Longboards are a bit longer and wider compared to skateboards and this makes them easier to balance. Although longboards are safer to use, they still involve risks and you want to be protected from these risks. You do not have to wear a specialized elbow guard. Elbow pads for skateboarding are enough.

Do elbow pads already enough to protect me when skateboarding?

Although elbow pads are designed to protect you when skateboarding, these are not enough to give you complete protection. You should also wear more protective gear to secure your body parts in case you fall. Wear a helmet, wrist pads, and knee pads too aside from wearing elbow pads.

Yes, it can be annoying to secure all this gear. But they are a good investment and they can save you from potential harm. It is better to invest in these products rather than paying high on medical bills because of the serious injury you have incurred during skateboarding.

Which is better between slim and thick elbow pads?

Well, it all depends on your preference. If you are a beginner and are frightened to end up being injured, then you should go for thick elbow pads. On the other hand, if you are a seasoned skateboarder and you want to feel the excitement of moving freely and enjoy flexibility, then you will love the slim elbow pads.

However, just to give you an advice, it is more ideal to use thick elbow pads if you are using electric skateboards.

How should elbow pads fit me?

Just like the other safety gear, your elbow pads should also fit you properly. It should be neither very loose nor very tight. Too loose elbow pads may slip around and may not be able to provide protection. Too tight elbow pads, on the other hand, will limit your movements and interrupt circulation.

When you wear your elbow pads, check the fitting by moving around your arm and flex the elbow to know how it feels. Nowadays, elbow pads are lightweight and more flexible. If you think that a particular choice does not feel right, then you should find something else.

Conclusion

The best elbow pads for skateboarding guarantee protection, comfort, and durability. Much as you want to secure your elbow from any injuries, you should also not want to confine your movements. You must choose the right fit.

When buying elbow pads, do not forget to check relevant aspects such as their durability, fit, breathability, and price. You should never neglect your safety. Enjoy skateboarding but make sure that you always drive responsibly. Wear safety gear and that includes the best elbow pads for skateboarding.