Best Cricket Batting Pads

If you haven’t got yourself some new batting pads this season, then this might be the best time to look into getting some new pads. Cricket is all about staying safe and playing at your peak performance levels, and that's where batting pads come in. There's nothing worse than wearing batting pads that are too heavy or get stuck in between your feet. Those quick singles could end up putting you in danger if they get in the way. That's why the best cricket padding pads are super important for protecting and comforting players, so you can focus on your game with confidence. 

In this article, we'll explore the top 10 cricket batting pads available today, giving you all the details about their cool features, benefits, and what makes each one special. We have spoken to some top professionals and coaches to get their opinions on the various different options and also tested these ourselves.

Whether you're just starting or you're a pro, finding the perfect pair of pads can take your game to the next level and keep you safe on the field. These top choices combine great design with ultimate comfort and protection, so you can choose the right one for you!

Next up on the list, we have the TC 1260 batting pads from New Balance. Now, you may be surprised to see them in the batting pads section as New Balance are known for producing shoes such as some of the best cricket shoe spikes on the market right now. But New Balance now also produce various other cricket equipment and are endorsed by some of the best players in the world.

New Balance is known for its staple White/Red design which is a fantastic look combined with traditional protection and modern performance benefits. These pads are ideal for players who favour a straight bat and a driving approach.

They feature a classic six-bar front to protect your shins. The cashmilon and mesh vertical bolster provides a comfortable fit. The TC range, endorsed by Joe Root, includes premium materials such as PU and seven-bar 9mm crosslink foam padding on the front.

The vertical bolster combines Litlon, soft foam, spacer mesh, and PU for added comfort. The knee bolster is a self-positioning molded cup with Litlon and soft foam.

The horizontal bolster has three layers of Litlon foam padding. The insteps are Litlon padded and PU-covered, while the cushioned nylon straps with easy-release PU tabs ensure a secure fit.

Overall, we absolutely love these batting pads from New Balance and could quite easily have ended up at the top. They are amazingly priced and are perfect for cricketers of any skill level and experience.

At number three, we have the DSC Xlite LE batting pads in white blend classic design with cutting-edge technology, offering elite protection for Test match play. From the feedback we have got so far about the company, they represent a fearless approach and are at the forefront of revolutionary designs. They are even known for producing some of the best cricket batting gloves on the market right now with two of them being featured on our list. You can see this in the players they have endorsed such as David Warner and David Miller.

These pads are designed for top-level comfort, lightness, and durability. The ultra-light high-density foam ensures strong protection while remaining breathable, thanks to mesh bolsters. The reinforced knee protection features a TPU insert and gel foam for excellent impact absorption.

Key features include premium PU facing, ultra-light HDF for longevity, and padded towel-lined straps with Velcro for easy adjustment. The shorter top hat fits better against the upper thigh, and the breathable mesh bolsters enhance comfort.

The butterfly-designed straps with padded buckles add extra comfort, while the extended side wings provide additional protection. All leather instep foot base completes the professional look and feel.

Overall, DSC is a revolutionary brand that prides itself on high standards and we felt this straight away when testing these batting pads. It may not have the heritage as some of the oldest brands, but you have to admire the attacking and passionate approach they have to making their equipment.

Next one on the list, we have the Rapid 5.1 from the popular Kookaburra which are usually very popular amongst Australian crickets. It’s a well-known opinion that Kookaburra produces some of the best equipment on the market and the batting pads are no different. These pads are designed for elite comfort and durability.

This specific range is specialized for female cricketers because of the ultra-light materials that are used making it easy when running for those quick singles. The high-density foam provides great protection which was clear when testing these in the nets.

Overall, in our opinion, the Kookaburra Rapid 5.1 is the best ladies cricket batting pads for a reason. It is lightweight on your legs and running quick singles are a breeze with these on, probably the lightest adult batting pads we’ve tested. You barely feel like they are on which is great for taking those quick singles as we as being protective enough to handle any impact.

Stand firm at the crease with Gunn & Moore Mana 909 batting pads in White. These pads use a traditional cotton and cane combination for excellent impact absorption and protection. They keep you safe so you can focus on your game with confidence.

The tri-layer knee locator ensures a snug and comfortable fit, while the PU facing adds a clean and classic look. Designed for right-handed batters, these pads offer extra coverage for exposed areas.

Key features include PU facing, a traditional cotton/cane construction, and a one-piece low-density interior bolster. The comfort foam vertical bolster and stitched-in top hat enhance comfort. With two 2-inch straps, one 1-inch strap, and a mesh instep, these pads are lightweight at 1.95 kg and provide excellent protection and fit.

Overall, if you have watched any form of cricket, we have no doubt that you will have heard of Gunn and Moore especially with a roster of Ben Stokes, Cameron Green and many other superstars. As soon as you put these batting pads on, you feel the rich 130-year history from the brand and the reason why so many cricketers as so loyal to this company.

Next up, another name you might find surprising to be in here if you haven’t played cricket for too long and it’s the XT 1.0 batting pads in white from Adidas. Adidas are known around the world for product the best clothing as well as shoes, but they also have a range of cricket equipment that are becoming more popular.

These pads combine a robust, resilient design with lightweight construction, allowing free movement at the crease.

The full cane vertical bolster and high-density foam absorb impacts from even the fastest deliveries. A classic three-piece knee roll provides added knee joint protection. The ergonomic sidewing extends around the leg for extra safety.

Designed specifically for left-handed batters, these pads offer extra coverage for exposed areas. Key features include a TPU welded badge, TPU tab with Velcro closure, and an internal TPU board for added protection. They also feature combined high- and low-density foam for comfort and reduced weight.

The V-strap, leather instep, single knee locator with height adjuster, and sculpted wings ensure a secure fit and maximum side protection.

Overall, we would be very surprised if you hadn’t heard of Adidas before, even though they are not a massive presence in the cricket space. Adidas always produce the most comfortable products and are budget friendly compared to the more premium brands on the market in our opinion without giving up on performance.

At number 7, we have the Gray-Nicolls Shockwave batting pads in White/Gunmetal/Black which offer excellent protection for your legs. Many people may not know that Gray-Nicolls is one of the oldest cricket companies in the market also going back over 100 years. You may have seen cricket players such as Babar Azam, Zak Crawley and many others use their equipment.

Designed for amazing comfort, these pads are made with a lightweight foam construction and a synthetic outer layer.

They ensure both comfort and freedom of movement. The pads feature a three-piece knee cup for extra protection and tabbed straps to keep them securely in place.

The lightweight HDF-fronted pad includes additional side wing protection. Inside, you'll find a diffuser foam shin bolster and a three-piece knee section with a fiber insert.

The pads also have a diffuser foam side wing for enhanced defense. Made with a durable synthetic outer cover, premium PU shin bolster, and PVC instep, these pads are perfect for club-level play.

Overall, another cricket brand with a rich cricket history, we were not surprised to see why these batting pads are so popular on the market. They are astonishingly comfortable, and you can see the amazing craftsmanship that has gone into these batting pads.

The Admiral 1.0 in White are designed for right-handed batters. This is a range of equipment produced by SS industries which started exporting to the UK back in 1979.

These batting pads feature a traditional 7-piece cane construction for strong protection. The pads include triple vertical internal bolsters for flexibility and safety.

A unique hinged side wing provides extra protection while maintaining mobility. Pin tucks and cuts in the knee area create a rounded shape that improves footwork. This helps whether you’re going for a big drive or a front foot block.

The pads use top-quality PVC on the front and have a 3-piece knee construction for added comfort. Broad straps at the lower and middle sections let you adjust the fit. 

The laminated air mesh instep ensures breathability. The Admiral 1.0 delivers protection and freedom of movement, making it ideal for any right-handed player.

Overall, these are not as widely seen as some of the other popular brands but nonetheless, the Admiral cannot be faulted for its quality and performance when it comes to these batting pads. We love how they feel once you put these on and wrap them around your leg. They are fantastically priced as well!

The DSC Pearla X2 in White offer top protection for left-handed batters. They are built to handle the pace of fast bowling while ensuring comfort and mobility.

The pads feature a traditional cane rod construction for excellent shock absorption. A compact design with tri-section shin bolsters provides extreme protection and wraps comfortably around your legs. Extended side wings offer extra coverage.

Breathable mesh bolsters with high-density foam enhance both protection and comfort. The high-quality PU facing adds durability. 2-inch wide butterfly straps improve the fit and ease of adjustment.

Endorsed by England’s Haseeb Hameed, the Pearla X2 pads deliver confidence and agility at the crease. They are designed specifically for left-handed batters, offering extra protection for the most exposed areas.

Overall, another mentioned for DSC in the batting pads list and the Pearla is another extremely comfortable set of pads. The amazingly simplistic colours really ooze elegance without comprising on protection. Great set of pads!

The Kookaburra Stealth 6.1 in White/Black offer top-notch protection for right-handed batters. Endorsed by Ben Foakes, these pads use impact-tested materials for excellent safety and comfort.

The Stealth 3.1 combines high-density foam with traditional cane for strong protection. It features a reinforced cane and foam construction with an HDF side wing. The three-piece knee roll and vertical bolsters ensure a good fit and shape retention.

Integral HDF thigh protection is PVC-faced, and the Duo-Flex ‘Pro-Tec +’ knee roll is mesh and rice knit faced for added comfort. The tri-flex integral shin bolster is made from Lycra and rice knit for flexibility.

The pads have a traditional 7-cane width and premium Lycra and rice knit vertical bolsters for extra comfort. Ergonomically shaped calf straps make fastening easier, and the premium PVC instep with PVC piping ensures durability. The 50mm calf and ankle straps, along with 25mm thigh straps, offer a secure fit.

Finally, we have another one from Kookaburra and these Stealth batting pads have a traditional and simplistic look that still come with amazing protection. Even strapping these on, we were surprised by how comfortable they are and when out on the square, they felt great to move around in.

Selecting the right batting pads is essential for both safety and performance. There are so many different things you could look at in our opinion. However, here’s a guide to help you choose the best batting pads tailored to your needs.

Start by evaluating you’re playing level, position, and personal preferences. Beginners might focus on comfort and affordability, while advanced players often seek superior protection and durability. Consider how often you play and your specific needs on the field. You may also need to look into where you bat in the order. If you are a bowler in the side, then you may not need the most premium options whereas an opening batter is more likely to face more balls so will require protection.

The materials used in batting pads can significantly impact their performance and longevity. Look for pads made from high-quality materials such as PU (polyurethane), leather, and high-density foam.

These materials offer better protection and are more durable. Additionally, pads with breathable mesh and moisture-wicking linings enhance comfort by keeping you dry and cool during play. Some players like to feel as those they are hardly on your feet, so they don’t weigh you down whilst running between the wickets.

Ensure that the pads provide comprehensive protection for your knees, shins, and ankles. High-quality batting pads should have ample padding in these areas to absorb impacts and reduce the risk of injury.

Comfort features are also important—look for pads with padded straps, ergonomic designs, and ventilation systems. This keeps you comfortable and minimizes fatigue during long innings. There’s nothing worse than when the velcro rubs against your thighs so that’s another thing to consider.

A proper fit is crucial for effective protection and mobility. Batting pads should fit snugly without being too tight. Adjustable straps and contoured designs help achieve a secure fit while allowing for natural movement. Ensure the pads do not restrict your movement such as when running between the wickets, as this can affect your batting performance or lead to run outs.

While high-end batting pads offer superior protection and comfort, there are also budget-friendly options that provide adequate protection for casual players.

You can balance your needs with your budget to find the best value. It’s important to invest in quality pads that meet your requirements without overspending.

Choosing the right cricket batting pads is essential for both safety and comfort on the field. Each of the top 10 batting pads reviewed here brings its own set of unique features to the table, catering to your various needs and preferences. We have mentioned what we personally loved about each individual option considering what others have said to us.

Whether you’re looking for superior protection, enhanced flexibility, or a stylish design, there’s a pad on this list that will meet your criteria. Consider factors such as the level of protection needed, the fit and comfort of the pads, and any additional features that might benefit your playstyle.

By evaluating your personal needs and preferences, you can find the ideal pair of batting pads that will help you perform at your best while keeping you safe from injuries. The right choice will not only enhance your performance but also ensure you stay comfortable throughout your innings.