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Youth volleyball knee pads are smaller versions of adult pads, sized for thinner legs. The padding works the same way; what matters most for kids is the fit, because a pad that’s too big slides off on the first dive. This guide covers how youth and adult pads differ, how to size them, and three good picks for kids.
How this guide was made: Volleyball Mania hasn’t wear-tested these pads. The picks and sizing advice come from the makers’ specifications, size charts and retailer listings.
Youth vs. adult knee pads: the differences
| Youth pads | Adult pads | |
|---|---|---|
| Sizing | Smaller sleeves for thinner knees and calves | Sized for adult legs, often in paired sizes such as M/L |
| Padding | Usually the same foam, sometimes slightly thinner | Ranges from low-profile to thick libero pads |
| Sleeve length | Shorter, to fit shorter legs | Longer |
| Price | Usually a few dollars less | Most quality pairs cost $20–$40 |
| Who they fit | Most kids under about 12, and some smaller teens | Teens and adults whose knee measurement is past the youth range |
There’s no fixed age to switch. Go by the knee measurement: when your child’s measurement is past the top of the youth chart, move to an adult XS or S.
How to choose knee pads for a child
- Measure, don’t guess by age. Use a soft tape around the knee at the point the brand’s chart names. Under Armour, for example, measures the widest part of the knee, over the kneecap, with the leg bent slightly.
- Don’t buy a size up to grow into. Loose pads slide down and leave the kneecap unprotected. Kids usually outgrow pads before they wear them out, so plan on a new pair each season.
- Choose medium padding. Most young players don’t need thick libero pads. Medium padding protects well without feeling bulky, which matters to kids who’ll otherwise pull them off.
- Check the fit in a crouch. Have them bend into a ready position and do a few squats. The pad should stay centered on the kneecap.
Best knee pads for kids
1. Under Armour Armour 3.0 Long Youth: more coverage
Best for: older kids and teens in club volleyball, and players who want the sleeve to cover more of the leg.
This is the youth version of Under Armour’s Armour 3.0 pad with an extended sleeve and pad for more coverage. It uses dual-density 10 mm EVA foam in a hinged design that moves with the knee, inside a durable knit sleeve. It comes in one youth size meant to fit most kids.
- Good to know: with a single youth size, measure your child’s knee first. Under Armour sizes its kids’ Armour 3.0 pads for knees up to 13 inches around, measured over the kneecap with the leg slightly bent.
2. Nike Essential Youth: light and low-profile
Best for: younger players and beginners who want pads that don’t feel bulky.
Nike makes a youth version of its Essential pad. The adult Essential uses low-profile, high-density foam with a Dri-FIT liner to manage sweat. Check the youth listing’s size chart before ordering.
3. Bodyprox Junior: the budget pick
Best for: first-season players, camps and school PE.
Bodyprox’s junior pads come as a pair, with high-density, contour-molded foam and anti-slip fabric meant to keep them in place when kids sweat.
- Good to know: the listing gives two different age ranges (8–15 and 13–18), so measure your child’s knee and compare it with the size chart rather than going by age.
For teens and adults, see our full guide to the best volleyball knee pads.
Frequently asked questions
Do kids need knee pads for volleyball?
For indoor volleyball, yes. Kids drop to the floor often while they’re learning, and most clubs and school teams expect pads. Beach volleyball doesn’t need them.
Can adults wear youth knee pads?
Yes, if the knee measurement fits the youth chart. Some smaller adults find youth pads fit better than an adult XS/S.
How long do youth knee pads last?
Usually until your child outgrows them, often a single season. Replace them sooner if the padding goes flat or the elastic stops holding them up.
When should I replace my child’s volleyball knee pads?
When they slide down during play, leave deep marks because they’ve become too small, or the padding feels flat over the kneecap.