Improve Your Skateboarding Game with High Performing Elbow Pads
Improve Your Skateboarding Game with High Performing Elbow Pads
Performance-Enhancing Fit for Maximum Motions
When you’re pushing your skateboarding talents to the limit, having elbow pads that move with you is key. The latest high-performance pads boast an ergonomic shape that contours to your unique arm anatomy for unrestricted motion. Flexible fabrics lined with slip-resistant EVA foam interior liner offer a flexible second skin feel. Four-way stretch spandex binds close to the joint, while still permitting full extension and compression. Unlike rigid plastic shells, flexible pads move with you when carving tight turns and throwing tricks. When fitting your pads, ensure the center protective foam rests right over the olecranon to safeguard this bony prominence from trauma.
Advanced Construction for Longer Wear
Serious skaters need elbow pads built to last through countless slides and slams. Look for abrasion-resistant outer shells constructed from durable fabrics like ballistic nylon or cordura. These tough textiles can withstand repeated friction against grip tape and concrete without showing signs of wear. Inner foam padding should be high-density and engineered to maintain its shock-absorbing properties over time. Premium pads may incorporate multilayer foam with varied firmnesses for targeted impact damping. Robust stitching and reinforced strapping are also essential for gear you plan to thrash on a regular basis.
Extra Cushioning Where You Need It Most

To fully protect your vulnerable joint, pay close attention to padding placement. Optimal elbow pads have thick, high-density foam layers right over the bony tip of the elbow. This is the area most prone to direct blows when you take a tumble. Quality pads may even incorporate dual-density foams, with firmer layers on top to spread impact and softer foams underneath for comfort. Make sure to assess the thickness of the padding over this region. Less than half an inch is unlikely to provide adequate protection during falls onto hard surfaces.
Advanced Construction for Longer Wear
When you’re logging hours perfecting new tricks at the skate park, you need elbow pads built to withstand repeated abuse. Look for exterior shells made from robust fabrics like ballistic nylon or cordura that can handle friction without sacrificing durability. Inside, high-density foams maintain their shock-absorbing properties session after session. For maximum longevity, examine the stitching along the seams and straps. These are high-stress areas, so reinforced threading is ideal. Also consider design elements like overlapping fabric flaps over closure straps to prevent premature fraying and wear. Replace pads at the first signs of degrading foam or loose stitching to avoid exposure to injury.
Extra Cushioning Where You Need It Most

The most vital part of an elbow pad is the protective foam covering the bony tip of the elbow joint. Targeted cushioning here can prevent traumatic injury when you take a bad slam. Look for pads with thicker, high-density foam padding directly over this vulnerable area. Dual density foam with a firmer outer layer to spread impact atop a softer lower foam promotes comfort without compromising protection. Evaluate the thickness of the padding over the elbow prominence – skimpy foam less than 1/2 inch thick leaves you exposed to hard hits. Quality elbow pads have robust cushioning where you need it most to keep you shredding safely session after session.
Easy to Slip On and Off
The last thing you want when suiting up for a session is fiddling with tricky fasteners on your elbow pads. Look for quick release buckles and adjustable strapping that make the pads easy to slip on and off. Wide hook-and-loop closures are ideal for customizing the fit around your arm securely in seconds. Some high-end pads incorporate hydration bladder compatability so you can slip them on and off without removing your pack. For maximum convenience, choose a sleeveless compression shirt with built-in pad pockets to slip the pads in and out while wearing the shirt. Well-designed easy on/off elbow pads mean less time prepping, and more time pushing your skills to the next level.